Import Vintners &; Spirits Association IVSA
New Product Salon
4 Seasons Hotel
Vancouver, September 21, 2009
This wine tasting show, put out by the Import Vintners and Spirits Association, was, like the previous ones, a success. A large selection of wines and spirits were poured, together with snacks. Importers, retailers, wine writers, aficionados, they all gathered at the Four Sesons Hotel. This event, which takes place every quarter, can’t be missed by those Vancouverites who love wine or those who want to get into the trade. Visit the IVSA website for details and be on their mailing list for the next event at: http://www.ivsa.ca.
On this occasion I tried several wines but focused on whites for good part of the show. Here what I found and what I recommend. Note that they are not in any particular order.
• Shoofly 2007, Buzz Cut. Viognier, Riesling, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Semillon. South Australia. $19.99 Spec. Agent: Old Bridge Cellars. Excellent value. Think of the popular “Conundrum” blend, but 10 dollars less.
• Poggio al Tesoro. Bolgheri “Solosole” IGT Vermentino. Toscana, Italy. $29.99. Excellent. Rich, deep and citrusy.
• Prosecco Extra Dry. Villa Sandi. Italy. $22.95 Spec. Crisp, lemony, minerality. Highly recommended!Agent: Enoteca Bacco.
• Verdicchio di Matelica, 2008. Vignetti del Cerro. “Belisario”. Verdicchio. $17.99. One of the stars of the night. Fresh, clean, crisp, every possible positive adjective for a white comes in here. Plus a great price. Agent: Enoteca Bacco.
• Poggiobello. Friulano Colli Orientali del Friuli 2007. $24.99. 91 pts Wine Spectator 31/08/08. Beautiful. If I only had had some Prosciutto I wouldn’t have left that table. Agent: Wine Quest.
• Flying Kiwi, Sauvignon Blanc 2008. Marlborough, NZ. $15.95. A good effort to bring famed NZ Sauv Blanc with good quality at a lower price. Agent: Peacock & Martin.
• Gerarado Fiorile Pinot Grigio 2008. Cesari Veneto, Italy. $17.99. Delicate floral nose, good acidity will make this a serious competitor in the under $20 PG class. Agent: Peacock & Martin.
• Domaine de Grachie. 2008 Cote de Gascogne Blanc. France. $11.99 Spec. At this price this funky-nosed, mineral Sauvignon Blanc based wine should fly off the shelves. Agent: Liberty Merchant Company.
• To be continued….
Winecouver 