Casa Dea – Oct 2016

2015 Dea’s Cuvée – $18.95 – **** – This is one of the best value wines in the province bar none. You will hear me talk about “Just Because” Sparkling wines with my meals and get-togethers, this is one of those wines. There is a hint of sweetness in the glass but the bright crisp acidity helps keep the wine in check. There are nice aromas of rising bread and the flavours are lime and lemon. Expect to find this wine in my house with anything from fried chicken to roast pork to a turkey with all the trimmings. The new packaging definitely makes a statement, so while this will be at home during casual get-togethers feel free to pick up a couple bottles to help celebrate any special occasion.

2014 Gamay – $15.95 – **** – There is a bit of a funk on the nose and something meaty. Immediately this wine has me thinking of smoked meat, pulled pork or stews. Under all the meaty aromas there are dark cherries and all kinds of pepper. This wine feels heavy on the nose and it hits the tongue with a bit of weight too but it leaves on its tip toes. That being said tart fruit does linger on the palate with cranberry and raspberry refusing to let go of the back of your tongue. Food pairing is a no brainer for this … the fact that the wine has a meaty aroma to it means it will pair with what it smells like. As the weather moves to fall I plan on using this in stews or with coq au vin.

2015 Melon de Bourgogne – $18.95 – **** – It’s taking me a bit of time to warm up to Melon de Bourgogne. This varietal is what makes up Muscadet. It’s known for its high acidity and stong mineral notes. This wine definitely delivers a double barrel shot of citrus flavours and mineral. But there is a little more going on in the bottle, you get hints of apple and white flower on the mid palate. This wine is great to enjoy on a patio, but it will be even more at home served with freshly shucked oysters. The high acidity should make this a great match to spicy cuisine of all sorts as well.