Monthly Picks: October 2013

In Canada we celebrate Thanksgiving in October. For the US, it's November. The origins, too, are different, but the modern day traditional meal and cultural experience are quite similar: family, friends and food. Our Monthly Picks list for October is focused on perfect pairings for the ultimate Thanksgiving meal, no matter when you celebrate it.

With Turkey

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2010 Pinot Noir - $22
Deep, dark cherry and stewed plum aromas patrol the toasty oak nose supported by savoury sage and light spearmint notes. On the dry palate are pleasant, baked raspberry and cranberry flavours with savoury and earthy notes flowing through to the long finish. Mild-mannered tannins and refreshing acidity structure the palate nicely.
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JoieFarm 2011 Gamay - $25
A nicely rounded example of the spicy, juicy and funky Gamay grape offering impressive depth on the nose with wild raspberry, white pepper, stewed plum and cherry cola aromas. The palate follows-up with fresh, vibrant acidity, mild, fine tannins and a flavour profile that ranges from wild, alpine fruit to savoury notes like cured meats and smoked cedar.
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Stag's Hollow Winery 2012 Grenache - $30
Brimming with layers of aromatic flowers, sweet spice and a medley of ripe, red fruit aromas on the sensual and feminine nose. The palate offers amazing continuity - the wine truly tastes like it smells - rich, feminine and complex with concentrated red fruit creating the perception of light sweetness through to the long, balanced, rounded finish.
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With Ham

Chateau Des Charmes 2011 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay - $14
Lovers of toasty, buttery Chardonnay look no further, this barrel fermented example offers all the big peaches'n'cream aromas you crave at the impressive under $15 price point. Has the richness to stand-up to the sweetness of ham dishes.
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La Frenz Winery 2012 Alexandria - $20
Peach, apple, apricot, citrus and stonefruit aromas and flavours round-out the profile of this joyous, off-dry wine suitable for Sunday brunches or dreary Winter nights when you're dreaming of the warmth of Summer.
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Erath Winery 2012 Pinot Gris - $20
Sourced from multiple vineyards and then blended to deliver a Pinot Gris with beautiful orchard fruit and light floral aromas on the nose followed by a dry palate with an even balance of rich, apple and pear flavours to vibrant acidity. The finish is long and tangy with hidden citrus and spice elements completing a refreshing experience.
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 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2013 IconWines.ca