By Natalie MacLean
It’s time to say welcome to the new spring season by changing up your wine pairings. Try these recommended selections for entertaining, stocking up your wine cellar or for your alfresco dinner of the year in the great outdoors.
Barone Ricasoli Castello Di Brolio Chianti Classico 2011,
Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy (LCBO: 942607, $59.95): I’ve long been a fan of the wine’s under Ricasoli’s Castello di Brolio line. Even in the challenging vintage of 2011, this is so well made. Balanced, complex with a long finish. You’ll find a dark fruit but with more smoke, earth and leather. Pair with a juicy beef dish. Chianti Classico food pairings: roast beef, cheesy pizza, stuffed roasted turkey, breaded veal cutlets. Alcohol: 14%. Sweetness: Dry. Drink: 2014-2020.
Score: 92/100.
Tarlant Brut Rosé Champagne, Champagne A.C., France (LCBO: 664680, $62.95): Deep, muscular, rich and full-boded with the clear influence of Pinot Noir grapes in this blend. Pair with seared tuna. Champagne food pairings: seafood risotto, lobster thermidore, sushi or caviar. Alcohol: 12%. Sweetness: Extra Dry. Drink: 2014-2018. Score: 91/100.
Stonestreet Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States (LCBO: 435099, $52.95): A full-bodied and complex Californian red wine with aromas of wild tart blackberry and cedar brush. It finishes with a lick of dark spice. Pair with rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops. Alcohol: 14.5%. Sweetness: Extra Dry. Drink: 2016-2021. Score: 90/100.
La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Chardonnay 2012, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, United States (LCBO: 394502, $57.95): A robust Californian Chardonnay with assertive aromas of green and golden apple, butterscotch and toffee from oak aging. Good acidity to balance this richness on the palate as well as to pair with food like buttered chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: chicken cordon bleu, Dover sole, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce or pork tenderloin. Alcohol: 13.5%. Sweetness: Dry. 2014-2018. Score: 92/100.
Natalie MacLean is the editor of Ontario’s largest wine review web site and mobile apps at www.nataliemaclean.com.