La Frenz Winery 2009 Malbec - 89pts

La Frenz Winery 2009 Malbec (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Sold out at the winery (here). Search private wine shops like Marquis Wine Cellars
Cost: $25
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: August 30th, 2011

Tasting Notes: A vein of red berry and cassis fruit sweetness runs through the sublime nose dominated by smoky, toasted oak and spicy vanilla aromas. Similar characters are found on the beautifully balanced palate of this excellent Malbec from La Frenz Winery. A tough grape to fully ripen, this release shows no signs of "greeness" with integrated, medium tannins, good acidity and a moderate finish with lingering spice. Enjoy this wine on its own or with roasted lamb. Drink 2011-2015.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2011 IconWines.ca

Cassini Cellars 2010 Sauvignon Blanc - 88pts

Cassini Cellars 2010 Sauvignon Blanc (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and VQA stores
Cost: $19
Alcohol: 14.2%
Production: 181 cases
Date Tasted: September 2nd, 2011

Tasting Notes: 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. A hint of spice goes a long way to adding another level of complexity and more food pairing options like sweet and sour Thai dishes. Drink 2011-2012.
- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2011 IconWines.ca

La Frenz Winery 2010 Viognier - 88pts

La Frenz Winery 2010 Viognier (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Sold out at the winery (here). Search private wine shops like Marquis Wine Cellars
Cost: $22
Alcohol: 12.5%
Date Tasted: September 3rd, 2011

Tasting Notes: Appreciating the gorgeous nose of this Viognier from Naramata Bench producer La Frenz Winery needs to be stressed as all too often the bouquets of crisp white wines are overlooked. Fresh pineapple and green apple fruit aromas float serenely in the glass showcasing both their tart and sweet characters. Moving to the palate may shock you at first with bright, high-plus acidity, but the initial impression of a sharp balance is eased with rich tropical flavours and textures. Enjoy this wine on its own or with a rich seafood dish. Drink 2011-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2011 IconWines.ca

Thornhaven Estates Winery 2008 Pinot Noir - 86pts

Thornhaven Estates Winery 2008 Pinot Noir (Summerland) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and VQA stores
Cost: $18.90
Alcohol: 12.4%
Date Tasted: August 26th, 2011

Tasting Notes: Good alcohol level management keeps this cool climate, budget Pinot tasting fresh and fairly light-bodied with raspberry seed, savoury spice and oak flavours on tap. A welcomed alternative to the expensive, higher alcohol, flashy Pinots that are on offer from other BC wineries. That said, you won't find great elegance or complexity with this wine but rather, a focused, food-friendly offering excellent value for money. Drink 2011-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2011 IconWines.ca

Cassini Cellars 2010 Viognier - 88pts

Cassini Cellars 2010 Viognier (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and VQA stores
Cost: $19
Alcohol: 12.6%
Production: 425 cases
Date Tasted: September 2nd, 2011

Tasting Notes: If the dryness and high level of acidity were the whole story with this Viognier from Cassini Cellars, it would be undrinkable. Thankfully, there is a rich narrative to this wine that rounds out the dry palate with lush tropical and ripe orchard fruit characters that blend with the crisp acidity of the cool 2010 season nicely.

The concentration is great and the finish is long, as with most Cassini wines, leaving your mouth with plenty of evidence with which to ponder the lingering flavours. Enjoy this wine in its youth on its own or with your favourite seafood dish. Drink 2011-2012.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2011 IconWines.ca