Here are some suggestions for your weekend trip to the local wine store:
2011 Tinto (Malbec, Syrah, Bonardo)
La Posta Cocina
Mendoza, Argentina
$17.99
Silver medal
Tasted 2014 01
This is a blend of 60% Malbec, 20% Syrah and 20% Bonarda. Garnet red in colour with deep intensity. The nose shows aromas of plum, blueberries, dark cherries, smoke, earth and spice. Good balance. Big ripe fruit on the palate with vanilla and some rustic flavours from the Bonarda. A medium finish with dry chocolate lingering. Serve with a classic Argentine-style steak seasoned with only salt and pepper.
2012 Pinot Noir
Red Rooster
Penticton, BC
$19.96
Silver medal
Tasted 2014 02
Garnet red with medium intensity. The nose shows aromas of cherries, spice, chocolate and earth. Good balance. Cherry flavours on the palate and a medium-long finish. Think salmon or BBQ’d ribs.
2009 Chardonnay
Robin Ridge
Keremeos, BC
$23.09
Silver medal
Tasted 2014 03
Lemon yellow in colour with medium intensity. Apple, citrus and tropical fruit aromas on the nose along with well integrated oak. Good balance with good mouthfeel. Tree fruit, tangerine, banana, toast and spice flavours on the palate. A creamy finish. A versatile food wine. Try it with a spicy Thai dish.
2012 Negroamaro
Luccarelli
Puglia, Italy
$14.99
Bronze medal
Tasted 2014 03
Garnet red with medium intensity. Plum, earth, sweet spice and dry chocolate aromas on the nose. Medium bodied with soft tannins. Sweet spice and ripe red fruit flavours on the palete. A medium finish with lingering dry chocolate. Serve with barbecue, hamburgers, pizza or tomato-based pastas.