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temperatures and longer growing seasons. The increased heat allows grapes to reach higher ripeness levels and develop richer flavours, like the full-bodied wines with pronounced ripe fruit flavours from Australia’s Barossa Valley. The extended periods of sunlight and warmth also result in softer tannins, adding to the wine’s smoothness and texture. Varietal & Regional Typicity While grape varieties are crucial in determining a wine’s character, each wine region has its own unique climate, soil composition and winemaking traditions, resulting in distinctive wine styles. In Argentina, for example, Mendoza has become the heartland of Malbec. The high-altitude vineyards and sunny climate contribute to wines with rich dark fruit flavours, velvety tannins and hints of spice. Malbec from Mendoza has gained international acclaim for its exceptional quality and bold and robust expression of the grape. In Italy, Tuscany is home to the renowned Sangiovese grape, which forms the backbone of many of the region’s iconic wines, such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. Tuscany’s warm climate and diverse terroir result in wines with flavours of red cherry, earthy notes, firm tannins and bright acidity. These wines often exhibit elegance, structure and age-worthiness. In France, the southern region of the Rhône Valley is famous for its Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre blends, which are known for their bold, fruit-forward flavours, spice notes and silky tannins. The warm Mediterranean climate of the southern Rhône contributes to the ripe fruit character and richness of these wines. Understanding basic concepts is fundamental for navigating the world of wine. It not only enhances our understanding but also allows us more enjoyment by appreciating the unique characteristics and nuances that make each wine an exceptional experience.
CRAGGY RANGE TE MUNA SAUVIGNON BLANC
CEDARCREEK PINOT GRIS BC VQA $24.99 561175 A versatile crowd- pleaser, this Pinot Gris features ripe pear, peach and green apple aromas mingling alongside spicy floral notes. It is dry and round on the palate with a lovely finish.
New Zealand $31.99 614420 This electric
Sauvignon Blanc leads with driving acidity and a stony minerality, with notes of green tropical fruits, ripe apple and pear, and has a refreshing finish.
SOKOL BLOSSER DUNDEE HILLS PINOT NOIR USA $47.99 608786 Perfumed floral
AMALAYA MALBEC Argentina $23.99 168294 This classic
notes mingle well with red berry aromas, dried currant, cinnamon and
Argentine Malbec has red and dark fruits on the nose and subtle hints of black pepper. It has energized acidity with a layering of mocha on the finish.
spice in this wine that features soft and approachable
tannins on the palate with a delicate finish.
FRESCOBALDI NIPOZZANO CHIANTI RÚFINA RISERVA Italy $26.99 107276 This Chianti consistently delivers quality and value with red berry and plum aromas with cedar notes and a touch of spice. It is a dry, well-balanced and finessed wine.
BRUNEL DE LA GARDINE CÔTES DU RHÔNE France $23.99 208942 southern Rhône, with 60 percent Grenache and equal parts Syrah and Mourvèdre, this wine has blackberry, cherry and leather notes with a luxurious mouth-filling finish. A classic GSM blend from the
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