2010 SYLVAINE & ALAIN NORMAND MACON LA ROCHE-VINEUSE AC, France $17.95 #268946
Chardonnay is as close to a household name as it gets in the world of wine, and when it’s from the homeland, Burgundy, it’s even more familiar and comforting. This tidy value is clean and aromatic, quite fragrant, fruity and ripe. The palate offers well-balanced acid-alcohol, as well as concentration and flavour range above what would be expected from the modest price point. Great lunch wine. Best: 2012-2016. Serving temp.: 10-12ºC. Pairing: Chicken Caesar salad.
2009 FABRE MONTMAYOU RESERVA MALBEC Mendoza, Argentina 15.95 #261867
Ten years ago and malbec from Argentina would have been wild, unfamiliar territory. But in the short time since, the country’s flagship grape, with its bold, ripe fruit flavours, has won a place in the hearts of Canadians. Fabre Montmayou’s Reserva is an authentically ripe and jammy example, oaky but not excessive, delivering pure, comforting black berry and violet perfume. The palate is full and plush, structured but not hard, elegantly balanced. A classy wine all in all, which should improve over 1-3 years or more. Best: 2012-2017. Serving temp.: 16-18ºC. Pairing: braised beef short ribs.
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John Szabo is a master sommelier and wine writer for Toronto Standard. Follow his tweets here: @johnszabo.
More recommendations by John Szabo at www.johnswines.com
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