October is the month of Halloween but it is difficult to find any inspiration from this candy-industry-fueled holiday for a Monthly Picks theme. The only things related to wine that are truly scary are corked wines and an empty glass. All of the following selections were sealed with a Stelvin enclosure to avoid any such fright, but if you pick one up you'll be sure of an empty glass.
Intrigue Wines 2010 "10" - $16
A blend of Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Muscat Caneli that serves to intrigue your senses like a clever collage with the varietals each adding an element to the final product rather than a seamless, integrated presentation.
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Cassini Cellars 2010 Sauvignon Blanc - $19
A Sauvignon Blanc hinting towards a New Zealand style with mouth-watering acidity, grassy character and crisp minerality. Where it breaks boldly from the Kiwi mold is the addition of lush tropical fruit to the flavour profile and a higher level of alcohol which creates extra texture and body.
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Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2009 Cabernet Franc - $20
The fruit and tannins are ripe, the acidity resets your palate and the finish is moderate plus - the makings of a very good wine that will make every critic's "best value" list at the end of the year.
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Bartier-Scholefield 2010 White Table Wine - $22
A blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc with impressive balance and concentration for a wine produced with minimal intervention in mind. If you were to make a "serious" wine out of Honest John's White from Road 13 Vineyards this would be the wine.
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Nobilo 2008 Icon Sauvignon Blanc - $23
A tart, but not bombastic, fresh Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region that offers classic gooseberry and grass characaters as well as lush tropical fruits and a touch of lime zest.
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