Tony Aspler’s Wine Picks
CONCHA Y TORO TRIO RESERVA CABERNET 2014 (Chile)
Great value Cab from the Maipo Valley — 70% Cabernet Sauvignon with Shiraz and Cabernet Franc in the blend. Deep ruby-purple colour with a nose of blackcurrants and a spicy, vanilla note from
the oak. Medium to full-bodied with cedar-tinged cassis and plum flavours carried on lively acidity.
**** (88). Food match: lamb burgers; hard cheeses. $14.95 • Vintages #433912
PINACLE DE FAKRA 2010 (Lebanon)
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Cinsault from the Bekka Valley. Dense ruby-purple colour with a cedary, blackcurrant nose boosted by vanilla oak. Full-bodied, earth and dry with ripe
black fruit flavours; well-structured with nuances of toasted herbs. **** (88).
Food match: meat loaf; chili con carne. $14.95 • Vintages #641670
CAVE SPRING ESTATE BOTTLED CHARDONNAY 2013 (Ontario)
An impressive Chardonnay at the price. Pale straw in colour with an apple and citrus nose; mediumbodied, fresh and lean on the palate with a mineral note and a crisp lemony finish touched with oak.
****½ (89). Food match: grilled fish; runny cheeses. $18.95 • Vintages #256552
DOMAINE SALMON GRANDE RÉSERVE MUSCADET SÉVRE ET MAINE 2014 (Loire Valley)
One of the best Muscadet I’ve tasted in some time. Pale straw in colour with a minerally, citrus peel bouquet; medium-bodied, crisply dry with grapefruit and pear flavours and a lingering finish.
Food match: oysters; ceviche. $16.95 • Vintages #438309
