Maleta 2002 Gamay

Another surprise. This is a small winery that is just a little off the beaten path. The winery is a pretty ruby and is medium bodied. Lots of sour cherry, with a hit of chocolate on the finish. A decent wine.

Wine clubs in Ontario

When I was in Niagara, I decided to join a few more wine clubs. In addition to Peller, I am now looking forward to monthly selections from Puddicombe, Fielding and Vinelands Estates. Thanks to Lindsay (at Puddicombe), Joe (at Vinelands) and Heidi (at Fieldings.)

EastDell Estates 2002 Red Cab

I allowed this wine to breathe for 2 hours before sampling. This is a blend of cab Franc and Gamay. I think the winemaker was drinking a different wine - based on his notes versus my experience. The wine is medium bodied (at best.) While the winemaker 's notes suggest blueberry and raspberry, I did get some raspberry, but lots of unpleasant acidity and no blueberry. I also had earthiness and harshness, rather than "soft and supple." This isnt something you would pour out, but you really wouldnt want to cellar it.

Peller Estates 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Signature Series

I went to Peller on Saturday and had dinner at the restaurant. I have always liked the '02 Cab Sauv and decided to have a glass (or two) of the Signature series with dinner. Full-bodied. Black berries and plums on the nose. Deep reddish-purple. Tastes of plum, black cherries. A wonderful accompaniment with the venison.

Coyote Run 2004 Off-Dry Reisling

I bought this on my first extended weekend trip to Niagara. This was the first stop and the winery's boutique had only been open for a week. I decided to buy this wine blind - with a thought that I would return later.

Nice clean pale straw colour. Tropical fruits on the nose. Grapefruit comes through with some pineapple. Crisp and a bit too much acidity. The notes claim lychee, but it didn't happen for me. A reasonable first attempt.

Fielding 2005 Pinot Gris

Absolutely gorgeous colur. A lovely amber with just a touch of blush. Terrific balance of sweetness and tartness. Grapefruit/tangerine comes through and quickly balanced with peach and melon. If you can find it, buy it.

Cornerstone Estate 2004 Select Blend Red

A blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir. Medium bodied. There seems to be more Gamay than Pinot to my taste. Lots of earthiness and cloves. Some cherry in the background, but slightly overwhelmed by the tabacco and earth. A bit of a long finish that isnt unpleasant. Inexpensive, but not something you want keep in your cellar.

Birchwood Estates 2002 Pinot Noir

I wasnt hoping for much, but this wine was a very pleasant surprise. Light to Medium bodied. Definite sweet cherry, with some red tart fruit that balances extremely well. A definite keeper.