Wine Archives - Page 12 of 22 - WineCollective Blog

Moms Love Wine!

Posted on April 28, 2014March 23, 2022 by Wil Knoll

With Mother’s Day quickly approaching, we want to help our WineCollective members find the perfect gift for the most special woman in their life. After work, cooking, laundry, cleaning and taking care of everyone in the fam, most moms would love to kick back with a glass of vino at the end of a long, hard day. And you, being the world’s best son or daughter can easily make that happen with a WineCollective store order or gift subscription!

We’ll be working hard this month to ship out all store orders for mom before Mother’s Day. If you make your store purchase before Monday, May 5^th, your wine will arrive for Sunday, May 11^th.

For mom’s that prefer java over wine, we suggest checking out our little sister CoffeeCollective for store orders and monthly gift subscriptions. Each month, CoffeeCollective features freshly roasted beans from a different Canadian roaster.

Currently, we have some amazing wines in our members-only store that are perfect for mom including:

Mauricio Lorca Fantasia

A sparkling wine from Mendoza, Argentina made from Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc. The wine is fresh with fruity and bouquet aromas and flavours! It’s a perfect edition to mimosas along with brunch.

2012 Colterenzio Lumo Blanc

For a mom as bright as sunshine, this Italian blend is composed of Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The palate is a citrus and tropical fruit salad with strong acidity and lifted finish of blanched almonds.

Purchasing from the store is a great option if you’re looking to get your mom a bottle or two of something special we have featured in our packages. However, WineCollective also offers gift subscriptions, which will keep the gift of wine coming! Purchase a gift subscription for your mother before April 30^th and the first shipment will arrive in May. Although your mother won’t receive the wines in time for Sunday brunch, you can easily print off the WineCollective gift email to put inside a card. Our gift emails explain the gift and process to the receiver as well as how to log in to their WineCollective.ca account so your mom will have something to look forward to.

If you’re looking to purchase a gift for mom we invite you to use our Mother’s Day coupon code MOMSLOVEWINE for $15 off a store or gift purchase over $50.

In celebration of Mother’s Day we’ve found a few women who dominate the wine industry, but do so with a few youngins hanging on their sides.

Elizabeth Grant Douglas – La Crema

Born in Niagara Falls, Elizabeth has worked at various wineries around Canada, France, and the United States. Today she is the director of winemaking at La Crema in the Sonoma Valley and manages to make perfect cool climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris while taking care of her 4-year-old son Malcolm.

Lise Asimont – Francis Ford Coppola Winery

As the Director of Growers Relations at the Francis Ford, Lise is responsible for overseeing cultivation and sourcing grapes from over 100 Napa Valley growers. While busy, Lise still finds time out of the vineyards for her two kids, 12 and nine.

Stephanie Honig – Honig Vineyard and Winery

While she handles public relations, Stephanie’s husband Michael is president of their family-owned estate. The two are raising their three kids, Sophia (6), Lola (4), and Sebastian (2) in their Napa Valley vineyards.

While we are positively sure the above moms love wine, we’re fairly certain yours does too! Feel free to contact us for assistance or any questions about ordering for Mother’s Day and be sure to use the coupon at checkout as all other orders without will be shipped with regular subscription packages mid-May.

For all of our WineCollective moms, Happy Mother’s Day! Cheers!

Uvas Felices

Posted on April 24, 2014April 24, 2014 by BlackSquare

Because happy grapes must taste better than sad grapes! Uvas Felices, or ‘Happy Grapes,’ is a group from Spain whose goal is to source and produce wines from premier regions and represent the authenticity of their terroir.

The wines are produced in extremely small volume, and we were lucky to be given the opportunity to try them. You might recognize the bold blue bottle below. We previously featured the Venta las Vacas 2010 in WineCollective and Tannic. We loved this wine so much, after selling out of the 2010, we have supply of the 2011 in the online members-only Store. Don’t miss out!

Last week, Amparo Soler from VILA VINITECA visited Calgary and brought four great wines from Uvas Felices. The wines, which are imported by Bonvida Wines in Alberta, were showcased at Vero Bistro in Calgary. Mark Bata of Bonvida hosted the night, with Amparo presenting the wines.

This was Executive Chef Jenny Chan’s first time preparing authentic Spanish cuisine. According to the Spaniards at the table, she nailed it! Be prepared to start salivating…

The night started with a glass of prosecco, and several generous tapas: lamb meatball, marinated squid, and bruschetta. The formal appetizer plate was a duo of Jamon Iberico de Bellota (Bellota Iberian ham) and tortilla de patatas tradicional (traditional Spanish omlette) with fried artichoke and olives. This was served with the 2009 La Locomotora.

La Locomotora has a unique label (like all the other Uvas Felices wines). The locomotive is reflective of the transportation in the area during the 40’s to 60’s. The wildflowers represent the over 80 different species of flowers found in Rioja.

Rape con salsa romesco (monkfish with ramesco sauce) was paired with the Paisajes Valsalado. Guiso de lentejas con chorizo (lentil stew with chorizo) was served with Paisajes La Pasada. The Paisajes or “Landscape” line embraces the distinct terroir of the vineyards.

“All wines are a look at the landscape. Valsalado Landscapes brings together 4 different varieties, 57 to 60 years of age randomly planted in one hectare of clay and gravel, located in the Logroño. Landscapes La Pasada comes from a farm planted with vines of Tempranillo Briones-57 to 60-year-old on a floor of gravel and clay. Landscapes Cecias from a 2.4 farm planted with Grenache than 85 years.” –Villa Viniteca

Yes, after 6 dishes we were quite full! Not full enough to pass on the lomo de cerdo asado con pisto manchego (roasted pork loin with pisto). Served with our favourite, Venta Las Vacas.

The dinner finished with helado de biscuit con turron de almendras (biscuit ice cream with almond nougat). The Spanish feast was a special treat to have at Vero Bistro! Keep tabs on their event calender to be sure you don’t miss out on the next one!

Don’t miss out on next year’s Uncorked!

Posted on April 21, 2014April 22, 2014 by BlackSquare

The turnout on April 12th for the inaugural Canmore Uncorked Wine Festival was impressive! The Radisson hotel hosted the the wine festival, the finale of the 10 day long event. We were curious how many people would be attending the event, as records show ticket sales were at about 450. This is a great start, considering the conference room was packed! We are sure that next year’s festivities will require either a second night, or a larger room.

The highlight of Uncorked is that tasters received a more in-depth and personal experience. With 450 attendees and over 80 different wines and spirits, there was plenty of opportunity to experience and learn about what was being poured.

20140412_205124 — Only 30 minutes into the event, the room at the Radisson was full.

Criticisms? More food selection and sampling would be a great addition for future years. With the cost of entry, attendees received two food vouchers and additional samples were $3.00 each. There was a selection of charcuterie and cheese, popcorn, and a made-to-order ravioli station.

Back to the positives, there were some great producers from around the world represented and a few cocktails to shake things up! WineCollective and Tannic members might recognize some of our favourites!

2014-04-15 15.18.52 — From Fluid Imports, Chris was busy pouring both Double Cross Martinis and wine from Tahbilk.

Double Cross Vodka

Double cross is 7 times distilled and can be found in some of the most elite bars around the world. Fluid Imports served the Slovakian vodka with a splash of vermouth and a little dirty!

Tahbilk---Marsanne-2003 Tahbilk---Marsanne-2007 Tahbilk---Shiraz

Tahbilk

Tahbilk is a great producer from Nagambie Lakes in Victoria, Australia. Tannic is a frequent supporter of Tahbilk. The Museum Release and Old Vines Marsanne, as well as the 1860 Shiraz are show-stoppers!

2014-04-15 15.14.56 — Christopher from Wine Syndicate pouring wines from Bodega Renacer.

Bodega Renacer

Both the Renacer R and the Punto Final Cabernet have made appearances on Tannic and WineCollective, and are an amazing value for plush and generous wines from Mendoza! Contact Wine Syndicate to find more of these wines. We are sold out!

2014-04-15 15.16.41 — Scott pouring Espino, contact Redback Wine Imports to find more of their wines.

Espino

From Redback Wines, the Espino line-up performs far above the price!

3 Easter feasts & wines to pair!

Posted on April 17, 2014 by Wil Knoll

With Easter right around the corner, the WineCollective team has decided to dig past the snow on the ground to the very small and patchy sections of green grass. We’re hopeful that after a festive weekend, the sun will start to shine and spring will be among us! To kick-start the bright and cheery season, we give to you several delicious recipes to boost typical Easter feasts and spring wine pairings that will absolutely bring sunshine to your table this weekend.

Brown Sugar Bourbon-Glazed Ham

For those of you that enjoy sweet, sweet ham on Easter, try this Bourbon-glazed goodness. The recipe is incredibly easily with a handful of ingredients including brown sugar, full shallot cloves and of course, Bourbon!

Wine Pairing

2012 Misha’s Limelight Riesling

From New Zealand, this Riesling has incredible balance between sweetness and acidity that will easily handle the sugar from the ham. Notes of pears, melons, white blossoms and minerality are present with a medium body that can definitely handle this filling dish.

2010 Sperling Old Vines Foch

This previously featured Maréchal Foch is sourced from 60 year old vines in Canada’s Okanagan Valley. Cherry and blueberry jam characteristics are rounded with oak and smoke notes. With the bourbon glaze, much of the rustic elements of the wine will show through and balance out the sweetness of the ham.

Honey-Curry Glazed Lamb with Roasted Grapes and Cranberries

Substantial amount of flavour from curry and honey combination. The lamb is grilled then oven baked to soak in all the juices while the roasted grapes and cranberries make for a festive topping.

Wine Pairing

2008 Charles Joguet Chenin Blanc

This wine is incredibly fresh and best served at a cool 12 degrees Celsius. Mouthwatering acidity combined with tropical notes, banana bread and honeycomb will pair delightfully with the different flavours and balance the curry spice.

2010 Kermit Lynch Côtes du Rhône

A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault and Mourvèdre, this wine has all the components necessary to pair with the lamb recipe. Minerality, dark cherries and bramble fruit are carried through the palate and generous amounts of acidity and round tannins with handle the richness of the meal.

Ginger Ale Can Chicken

Similar to the much-loved beer can chicken, except this wine uses ginger ale, adding a whole different profile of flavour to the meat. The steam from the can creates a moist rich roasted flavour.

2012 Glen Carlou Unwooded Chardonnay

A refreshing Chardonnay that we’ve even posted an entire blog about it! High acidity meets the green orchard fruits and floral components with a creamy and velvety texture. It’ll match superbly with the ginger.

2011 Sister’s Run GSM

Recently featured, this wine is a blend of Grenache and Shiraz from Australia’s, Barossa Valley. The Shiraz will bring out the lively ginger spice. On the palate, stewed plums, blackberries and blueberries with fine tannins and nicely balanced acidity.

We hope you get to try out some of these amazing pairings and bring out some of the best in your traditional Easter feasts this weekend! If not, let us know what you enjoyed through the WineCollective.ca community, Facebook or Twitter page.

As always, feel free to contact us for more information on food pairings!

Canmore Uncorked wine festival April 12th

Posted on April 3, 2014 by BlackSquare

We have some exciting news to share with you! The first ever Canmore Uncorked is taking place starting today through to April 12th. The food and wine festival is celebrating the great dining and drinking experiences found in Canmore.

Fellow Calgarians will agree, we rarely need an excuse to visit Canmore. The scenery, people and limitless activities found in the town are more than enough to persuade us to make the hour long trek. Give us a festival to further indulge in the bountiful culinary experiences of Canmore, and we can’t say no! The 10 day event includes a craft beer festival, featured menus at 26 restaurants, cooking courses, progressive dinners, and concludes with a wine festival.

WineCollective will be in attendance at the wine festival on April 12th, and we would love to see you there! Long-time WineCollective members might recognize some of the 80 wines being poured. There is a great selection that represents many boutique producers from around the world, and also includes a handful of Scotches.

What you need to know:

Saturday, April 12th from 7-10 pm.
Tickets are $45 and can be purchased in advance at canmoreuncorked.com.
Your ticket covers the cost of the samples!

CanmoreUncorked has all the information on the week’s festivities, including the wine festival on April 12th. You can also visit Tourism Canmore for details on accomodation, and other attractions while you are in the area. We hope to see you in Canmore, WineCollective is looking forward to hearing about your Canmore Uncorked experiences!

The wines of Portugal

Posted on March 28, 2014March 31, 2014 by Wil Knoll

There are several reasons as to why Portugal is and further becoming a widely reputable player in the wine industry. First, the country accounts for 50% of global cork production, and second, for its famous and much loved Port wine.

Apart from mastering skills and natural resources in cork oak tree forests and through out the Douro, the Portuguese have an overall love of quality food and wine. I know this not only through personal experience of my nationality, but also in the way that Portugal is becoming greatly appreciated for their overall wine production by critics, industry leaders and everyday wine drinkers.

Various varieties, of both red and white, are rooted and grown only in Portugal’s vineyards and as WineCollective searches for uncommon wines to share, these native grapes offer a unique branch to expand your palate. Some of these varieties include:

Many of these grapes have been transferred to countries of similar climate, such as Touriga Nacional in South Africa. Considering its aging potential, richness in colour and tannins, and intense full-bodied flavours, Touriga Nacional deserves to be listed as a noble grape.

There are 14 wine regions in Portugal, all with unique qualities in terroir, climate and grape varieties that allow for recognized specialties.

mapa_regioes — Image from Wines of Portugal, www.winesofportugal.info

The famous Alentejo is known for its bodacious and dry red wines made from varieties such as Borba, Évora, Trincadeira or Tinta Amarela and the widely planted Aragonez (Tempranillo) in addition to noble grapes like Cabernet. Equally as admired, the Douro has branched from its production of fortified wine and uses the typical varieties that are found in Port like Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, and Touriga Nacional, in making its rich reds.

Last summer, a major trend in the wine industry was the adoration of Vinho Verde, or green wine. The region’s cooler climate and coastal breezes from both north and west creates light, crisp and aromatic wines from indigenous grapes named Alvarinho, Arinto and Trajadura.

2010 Esporão Reserva Red

A very popular wine in Portugal with aromas of spice, red berries, chocolate and oak. On the palate the wine is compact and dense with black fruit and firm tannins. Made from Aragonês, Trincadeira, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Alicante Bouschet.

WineCollective has featured many Portuguese wines in the past. These more recent selections may still be in your cellar!

2010 Monte da Ravasqueira Prova

Blend of Aragonez and Trincadeira. The name Prova means “taste” or “proof.” Mid-palate shows soft red fruits and the smoke and spice qualities come directly from terroir as no oak aging is used.

2012 Monte da Ravasqueira Serrana

White varieties of Antão Vaz and Arinto. Notes of stone fruit, green apple and orange peel. A balance of tropical and citrus flavours.

2005 Luis Pato Baga

Made from single grape variety Baga. Weighty core of earth and wood with sour cherry, blackberry and dark chocolate on the palate.

Baga is traditional served with Leitão or suckling pig. For some, the pairing may be out of reach, however, many pork-based Portuguese dishes go hand in hand with the wine such as Carne de Porco à Alentejana (pork, clams and potatoes) or a bean stew known as Feijoada. I would argue that my father makes the best of both, but for those willing to try, enjoy the recipe below!

1. In large bowl, combine wine, paprika, salt and pepper, blend well. Add garlic cloves, bay leaf, and cubed meat, turn meat in marinade to coat pieces. Marinate for 6 hours, turning occasionally.

2. Drain pork; reserve marinade. Pat cubes completely dry. Discard garlic and bay leaf. Melt 1 teaspoon of oil in large skillet. Add pork cubes, stirring frequently so that the meat colors quickly and evenly. Transfer with slotted spoon to a bowl.

3. Pour reserved marinade into skillet and bring to a boil over high heat, scraping off any brown particles clinging to the inside of pan. Boil briskly uncovered until marinade is reduced to 1 cup. Pour over pork and set aside.

4. In 6 to 8 quart pan, heat remaining 2 teaspoons oil; add onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently until onion is soft but not brown. Add garlic, tomatoes and crushed red pepper. Simmer, stirring constantly for 5 minutes.

5. Spread the clams, hinged side down, over the tomato sauce; cover the pan tightly and cook over medium to high heat for ten minutes or until clams open. Stir in reserved pork and juices. Simmer for 5 minutes to heat thoroughly. Sprinkle with parsley.

Understanding and reading up on Portugal’s unique grapes and their traits will become very helpful as the wines continue to boom in popularity. Whether we featured it, or you found it on your own, comment below and share with us your favourite Portuguese wine!

Why choose Tannic?

Posted on March 26, 2014March 25, 2014 by Wil Knoll

Tannic and WineCollective have lived peacefully as siblings for several years. While both have their perks and provide great wines to vino lovers across Canada, some members of both clubs would argue Tannic has a special place in their… cellar.

Apart from the continuously rotating selection, Tannic members love the aspect of complete control of what wines they receive. With the ability to research and learn about the wines available for purchase, Tannic members know everything about the wines they are purchasing before they arrive.

The Tannic store is updated weekly with several new premium wines to choose from. Each featured wine is selected based on quality, value, exclusivity and ratings from acclaimed wine critics.

Here are some more reasons why everyone loves their Tannic membership:

– Online account to keep track of your wines

– Purchase gifts for family and friends

– Exclusive wines with limited availability

– Curated information and ratings

– No minimum purchase

– Free shipping offered

– Receive 15% – 50% off retail prices

– Two memberships to choose from

A Gold membership ($195/year) includes access to the online store with weekly updates every Wednesday at 9 a.m. MST. Shipping is free with 12 or more bottles.

Platinum members ($395/year) receive early access to weekly features on Tuesday evening, and receive VIP deals and features. Shipping is free for all orders.

Tannic often features wines at high price points with impressive ratings and reviews. However, this is not to say all of the wines are outrageously priced. Bottles can range from $25 to $2,000, yet the quality remains. Tannic aims to provide wines with exceptional cellaring capability. While some are available and ready to drink within the year, the store collection typically carries bottles that you can cellar and save for a special occasion years down the road.

If you’re interested in growing in your wine knowledge and want access to rare, cult and premium wines, Tannic is most definitely for you. For more information on Tannic, visit the site today and prepare to indulge in the world of wine.

Support the care of Alzheimer’s patients with The Bellini Foundation and South by Southwest

Posted on March 5, 2014March 7, 2014 by Wil Knoll

One of WineCollective and Tannic’s go-to representatives, South by Southwest Wine Imports, is aiming to make a difference for the future of Alzheimer’s patients. Partnered with the Bellini Foundation, all funds raised in sales of the 2010 Passione e Visione will be donated towards the care of those suffering with Alzheimer’s in Alberta

This month, SBSW is launching a special wine from Domodimonti, a winery in Marches, Italy, owned by Dr. Francesco and his wife, Marisa Bellini. Apart from his wine expertise, Dr. Bellini, an Italian, Canadian doctor, is recognized for life changing medications not only for HIV but also, for Alzheimer’s.

Dr. Bellini is credited for the 3TC Epivir, a Hepatitis C vaccine that prevents HIV from turning into Aids. He is also known for his drug, Alzhemed, which prevents beta amyloid from forming abnormal growth in the brain that is linked to the fatal Alzheimer’s disease.

There are over 800,000 people in Canada living with Alzheimer’s disease, a number that is projected to double by 2030.

In hopes of one day finding a cure and in the meantime caring for those suffering with Alzheimer’s, SBSW and the Bellini Foundation are donating $20 per case sold of the Passione e Visione 2010 to support the care of Albertan’s living with Alzheimers.

We would love to join SBSW in their mission by asking our members to take part in this charitable donation by purchasing Passione e Vissione through Tannic.ca. In exchange for a premium wine, your donation will help in caring for those with the disease today.

Below are SBSW’s tasting notes on this upcoming feature.

2010 Passione e Visione

Grape: Petite Verdot

Eyes: Deep ruby red

Nose: Expresses notes of violet and red berry jam, perfectly harmonized with underlying aromas of leather and spice.

Mouth: The wine is delicate and well structured on the palate without any roughness. The soft and enveloping tannins give it harmony and elegance.

Food Pairing: Decant for an hour and serve alongside barbecued lamb chops, roast duck and aged cheese.

Keep an eye out for the upcoming opportunity of purchasing the Passione e Visione on Tannic and through South by Southwest Wine Imports at local retail locations. You can expect to see the Passione e Vision in the Tannic store later this month!

For more information, or to pre-order cases of the delicious Domodimonti feature, contact WineCollective or Tannic today.

Discover Naramata wines

Posted on February 20, 2014 by BlackSquare

Chances are you are familiar with the different wine regions in Canada, from BC to Nova Scotia. Within these larger regions of Fraser Valley, Okanagan Valley, Niagara, Prince Edward County and Tidal Bay, you can find smaller regions that further dictate a more specific wine style and quality. Naramata is one of these smaller regions located in the Okanagan Valley.

The Okanagan Valley is nestled in a pocket with the Shuswap and Kootenays to the north and east, and the Similkameen Valley to the west. Okanagan Valley is comprised of 11 different sub-regions with 122 licensed wineries. The Okanagan Valley produces the majority of B.C.’s wine, with “nearly 82 per cent of the total vineyard acreage in the province”- (WineBC.com)

Naramata is home to approximately 30 wineries. South of Kelowna and north of Okanagan Falls on the East bank of the Okanagan Lake, Naramata is home to many grape varietals. The soils and climate produce stunning Merlot and Pinot Noir, as well as full-bodied Pinot Gris, we like Kettle Valley’s. You can also find more unique plantings of Ehrenfelser, Pinot Blanc, and Pinotage at wineries like Lake Breeze Vineyards.

A few of the Lake Breeze wines available at the 'Flavours of Naramata' — A few of the Lake Breeze wines available at the ‘Flavours of Naramata’

Winemaker at Lake Breeze Vineyards, Garron Elmes.

What makes Naramata wines so special? The approximate 25 kms of winding roads and undulating hills lay atop granite rich soils. The granite provides a level of minerality to the wines and also provides a heat source for the vines. The mineral rich soil absorbs heat during the day and disperses the warmth through the evening. The vines wake-up in the morning with open leaves and ready for the heat of the day. Vineyards with a western slope that face the Okanagan Lake also benefit from the additional sunlight reflected off the water. This is why you will discover fully ripened and expressive varietals such as Syrah, this far north!

A visit to Naramata is definitely worth a trip! If you are short on vacation time, you can attend the Flavours of Naramata festival being held this evening in Calgary. At the Jack Singer Concert Hall Lobby, you can sample the wines from 18 different producers while being entertained by the Deanne Matley Trio!

IMAG4573 — Jennifer excited to start her Naramata journey!

If you are attending the event, let us know what you thought of the wines! WineCollective would love to hear about your favourite Naramata wineries and new wines you discovered.

A treat from Glen Carlou

Posted on February 18, 2014 by Wil Knoll

Less than an hour outside the beautiful Cape Town, the Glen Carlou estate is producing some of South Africa’s finest wines. While the winery was first established in 1985, it was taken over by Hess Family Estates in 2003. Hess is known for producing highly sought after New World wines and is partial owner to Bodega Colomé in Argentina, and the famous king of the Barossa Valley, Peter Lehmann Wines.

WineCollective’s CEO, Matthew, had the opportunity to visit the Glen Carlou winery in 2013, where he toured the vineyards, taste the wine with the winemaker and landed the very exclusive deal to bring their 2012 Unwooded Chardonnay to WineCollective members. Before our January packages were released, this wine was quite impossible to find anywhere in Canada.

Only at its second vintage, this Chardonnay is rare not just counting its limited availability. Unlike Glen Carlou’s two other Chardonnays, the Classic and single vineyard Quartz Stone, the Unwooded Chardonnay does not receive any oak treatment. Instead, it undergoes an entirely unique winemaking and aging process of its own.

Grapes are sourced from Glen Carlou’s rich vineyard slopes in the Paarl Valley region, where the estate is located. Aiming to make higher quantities of the Chardonnay, because of the first vintage’s popularity, grapes were harvested from mid January to mid February after reaching ideal maturity.

Winemaker Arco Laarman, imported cement egg-shaped tanks to Glen Carlou from France, which was used to ferment both the 2011 and 2012 vintage. These special eggs, that blends the benefits of wood and stainless steel, allows the juice to slowly adjust its temperature. It also gives optimal control of micro-oxygenation, or the process in which oxygen is introduced to the wine.

Another key difference is that the egg prevents the wine from rising, as it typically does with wood and an increase in temperature. The shape causes the fluid and lees to turn naturally and nourish the wine.

Without the use of wood for fermentation or aging, the 2012 Unwooded Chardonnay is left without the oaky qualities the Chardonnay varietal typically carries. Instead, the wine is fruity and full with a fresh minerality. This extraordinary Chardonnay is now Glen Carlou’s fastest selling white wine in South Africa.

The estate’s restaurant pairs this particular Chardonnay with home cured duck breast that marries rhubarb chitneu, celeriac and pear salad with citrus dressing. While this does sound delicious, the wine will also work wonderfully with grilled seafood or on its own.

WineCollective is very fortunate and excited to have the Unwooded Chardonnay in the Canadian market. We have some extra bottles available in our members only store if you’d like to make this your house white wine! Reach out to the online WineCollective community with your tasting notes and food pairings because we would all love to hear what you think about this rare and celebrated treat!

Bring me wine, Valentine

Posted on February 11, 2014 by Wil Knoll

This Valentine’s Day, while treating your sweetheart to a romantic evening of candles, flowers and “love coupons,” remember that there is only beverage that pairs with heart-shaped boxes of chocolate… Wine.

At WineCollective, we eat our mid-afternoon snack of brownies, cakes and cookies with a glass of wine to match. Of course, we love both chocolate and wine separately, but a spark of magic ignites when the two are combined. And well, aren’t we all looking to stir up a little fire this upcoming Friday?

There are a few general rules to remember when pairing wine with chocolate.

To avoid a bitter taste, make sure the chocolate is never sweeter than the wine.
Pair darker chocolate with darker reds.
With white wines, looks for a buttery Chardonnay, Champagne or sparkling.
Match flavours of wine with chocolate. Citrus notes, citrus cocoa.
Choose wines that have soft and rounded tannins.
When in doubt, choose Port or Sparkling!

In the last few WineCollective packages, we have featured some great wines that will perfectly pair with all flavours of chocolates and truffles. We’ve rounded up these V-day-inspired selections, along with their tastiest chocolate soul mate, for you and your special someone.

Please note that these pairings are not just for those in love. Those flying solo can also easily enjoy chocolate and wine… Arguably, even more.

2010 Anima Negra MUAC!

Mallorca, Spain

Callet, Manto Negre, Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine: This blend shows off some bright raspberry and strawberry notes with a faint trace of vanilla.

Chocolate: A chocolate raspberry truffle with red and black raspberry puree and chocolate ganache all covered in milk or dark chocolate.

2011 Flowers

Sonoma Coast, United States

Pinot Noir

Wine: Wild berries with a subtle earthiness on the palate.

Chocolate: Pair this wine with a simple and delicious chocolate mousse filling, wrapped in a milk chocolate shell.

2012 Pasión de Bobal Rosé

Valencia, Spain

Bobal

Wine: A smooth and balanced Rosé with notes of apricot, nectarine and wet stone.

Chocolate: Keep the Pasión coming with a white chocolate shell jammed with passion fruit filling.

Mauricio Lorca Fantasia

Mendoza, Argentina

Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay

Wine: A sparkling wine to pair with a variety of treats. Fresh fruit with hints of graham cracker and toast.

Chocolate: Enjoy a vanilla and dark chocolate ganache in a white or milk chocolate shell.

2012 Mason Cloudberry

California, United States

Merlot, Malbec, Zinfandel, Petite Verdot, Petite Sirah

Wine: A blend made for chocolate with rich plum notes, a black tea finish and lovely integrated tannins.

Chocolate: Pair with a chewy chocolate and caramel centre wrapped in dark chocolate.

If you’ve already enjoyed the above bottles, here are the suggested chocolate and variety pairings that you should stick to.

Milk: Port, Sherry, Rose

Medium Dark: Pinot Noir, Port, Champagne, Merlot, Zinfandel

Dark: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Borolo, Zinfandel

Wine and chocolate pairings are a real treat for you, your valentine and your taste buds. Because WineCollective loves you so much, we invite you to use our Valentine’s Day coupon code: WCLOVESME, for $10 off store purchases. Many of the wines featured in this blog are still available for purchase!

Happy Valentine’s Day! <3

AER’s silent auction for United Way

Posted on January 17, 2014 by Wil Knoll

WineCollective has always jumped at the opportunity to participate in various United Way fundraisers in the past. Recently, we joined Alberta Energy Regulator in their silent auction in support of United Way that focused on three areas including:

– Helping kids be all they can be

– Moving people from poverty to possibility

– Building healthy people in strong communities

Towards the end of 2013, WineCollective donated a 6-Month Holiday Package, valued at $556, which was featured in the AER silent auction. This donation included all of the bells and whistles of a typical WC gift package such as tasting notes and access to our online community of wine-lovers. We sincerely hope the highest bidder enjoys their upcoming six months of wine!

Along with other companies and organizations who generously donated to the auction, Alberta Energy Regulator raised $19,472.98 for United Way.

Thank you to AER for hosting this very successful silent auction. We look forward to working with them and other United Way supporters in the future.