Monthly Picks: November 2011

November is the month of remembrance. Hey, remember when wine critics were tauting BC Syrah as the next "it" grape for the Province? Yeah, Cabernet Franc kicked its ass... but I digress and offer you a bit of both for this month's picks.

Fort Berens Estate Winery 2009 Cabernet Franc - $25
Easy-going tannins help create a soft, silky texture in the mouth. Produced from fruit grown on the Black Sage Bench in the southern Okanagan. A Sunday roast Cabernet Franc.
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River Stone Estate Winery 2009 Cabernet Franc - $26
This Cabernet Franc makes an unexpected homage to the Australian modus operandi of producing big, juicy and ever-so-sweet reds.
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Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Oldfield Series Syrah - $30
Medium-plus bodied Syrah with a healthy dose of spice and dark cherry characters both on the pleasantly layered nose and dry, complex palate.
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SpierHead Winery 2009 Cabernet Franc - $30
The delicate nose will entice you with ample potpourri and crushed fresh flower aromas followed by a full-ish, buttery palate of dark and red berry flavours with enough of an acid kick to keep the mouth feel fresh, vibrant and not overly creamy. The finish is long and complex with some lingering spice and fruit puree.
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Blackhills Estate 2009 Syrah - $35
The winery made its name with a big red blend but has recently been branching out to see what else their Black Sage Bench vineyard can grow. First Syrah is solid and worth a try.
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Cassini Cellars 2009 Cabernet Franc - $TBA
Oak treatment has helped structure the wine with firm tannins adding depth and longevity. The finish is long and very satisfying with lingering cinnamon stick characters.
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