Spring has sprung and as we cast off the heavy sweaters and coats, it’s also time to lighten up our wine wardrobe.
Back with us now to share what’s in liquid fashion this season is Natalie MacLean who offers North America’s most popular online wine classes. Hi Natalie
Can you give us a bit of an overview of what trends we’re seeing in the wine world this spring?
Everything’s coming up Rosé, Chardonnay and Riesling! They’re all wines meant to be consumed young, and I do mean the wines not the people. They’re fresh and lively, perfect for spring and throughout the summer.
We’re starting with a Niagara Riesling. Why have you chosen it to kick things off?
Riesling is experiencing a rebirth: it’s no longer sugary sweet and insipid, but now made in styles that are dry or off-dry with just an itsy bitsy bit of natural sweetness like these wines we have here today.
Reif Estate Winery Riesling
Niagara River, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada
They’re among the most versatile wines when it comes to food pairing like this one from Reif Estates. It has just 12.5% alcohol and features lively aromas of fresh lemon and lime.
You also have a California Chardonnay there. Tell us about it.
This Sea Sun Chardonnay from the Caymus Family is bottled spring sunshine. It’s lively and refreshing.
Sea Sun Chardonnay
California, United States
Perfect for patio sipping and the lighter fare we eat in the spring like field greens and seafood.
Next up is a Niagara Rosé. Rosé never seems to go out of style. Why is that?
It’s true, rosé is always en vogue. Rosé all day, right? But it’s never more popular than as winter-weary wine lovers welcome spring. This one is from Malivoire and has lovely aromas of fresh field strawberries.
Malivoire Ladybug Rosé
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada
There’s no need to age them, they’re ready to drink when you are. Pret-a-porter, pret-a-rosé. It’s perfect as an aperitif or companion to delicate seafood dishes and fresh cheeses.
You have a Californian red blend for us to try.
Yes. The Walking Fool from the Caymus Family is a blend of Zinfandel and Petite Sirah.
Caymus-Suisun The Walking Fool Red Blend 2020
Suisun Valley, California, United States
This one has aromas of fleshy ripe berries and spice. No big furry tannins, oak and alcohol. This would be perfect with spring barbecues featuring grilled steak or chicken.
Last up showing us another California red, a Zinfandel. Why did you pick it?
Seven Deadly Zins has rich aromas of dark ripe plums and berries with some mocha.
Seven Deadly Zins Old Vine Zinfandel
Lodi, California, United States
It would be perfect with grilled burgers or pizza.
You have a mobile app that can help us find those wines in the liquor store?
You won’t need the luck of the Irish to pick the right wines, whether you’re in the pub, at a friend’s house or at the liquor store restocking. It’s like having a sommelier (and leprechaun) in your pocket. This free mobile app scans barcodes and front labels to give you instant access to my reviews and food pairings and the stock at your closest liquor store.
Posted with permission of CTV
