Stellenzicht Wines 2013 Red ESCape - 87pts

Stellenzicht Wines 2013 Red ESCape (W.O Stellenbosch) South Africa

Availability: BCLDB stores
Cost: $12.99 +taxes
Alcohol: 14%
Date Tasted: May 26th, 2016

Tasting Notes: Composed of Syrah and Pinotage fruit sourced from the Stellenbosch region of South Africa, the playful Red ESCape opens with a surprising, yet effective blend of smoky-earthy-meaty notes and sweet, candied red fruit aromas on the intriguing nose. The off-dry palate follows with a similar contrast of juxtaposed characters with smoky, dusty tannins enveloping sweetened, dark cherry and spicy, blueberry fruit flavours. The finish is short, but thankfully, crisp, thanks to plenty of wild berry acidity balancing the residual sugar. 

Pair with sweet'n'spicy BBQ ribs or other spiced, grilling meats. Drink now-2017.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2016 IconWines.ca

Flat Roof Manor 2012 Malbec - 84pts

Flat Roof Manor 2012 Malbec (Stellenbosch) South Africa

Availability: BCLDB Stores
Cost: $12.99
Alcohol: 14.5%
Date Tasted: July 28th, 2014

Tasting Notes: A fruit-forward Malbec produced in the (mostly) off-dry style made popular by Apothic Red, where the focus is on boisterous berry flavours and aromas and less on balance or complexity. Sharp acidity tends to dominate the dried herbs and mild, mild tannins on the finish, though, the wine does delivers the berry-medley fruit you expect from a Malbec. 

Missing the structure to age or develop, therefore, be sure to consume this wine in its youth and pair with sticky-sweet BBQ ribs. Drink now-2015.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2014 IconWines.ca