Wine Review Archives

Wine Review: Two Wines from Marqués de Riscal [voted #1 Vineyard in the World]

Marqués de Riscal

Located in the picturesque Basque Country, the Marques De Riscal winery in Elciego, Spain, is a beacon of viticultural excellence. This historic winery, founded in 1858, has recently been voted the #1 vineyard in the world by the World’s Best Vineyards 2024 and received the Best Vineyard in Europe Award. The winery’s commitment to innovation and quality is also evident in every bottle they produce, making it a must-visit destination. You can explore the stunning vineyards, tour the state-of-the-art winery facilities, and indulge in tastings of their award-winning wines.

At the heart of the Marqués de Riscal City of Wine stands Hotel Marques De Riscal, designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry. This hotel offers a unique and unforgettable experience, blending modern design with the rich history of the region. With its combination of award-winning wines, luxurious accommodations, and rich cultural experiences, Marques De Riscal is truly a destination that should be on your bucket list!

Website Link: https://www.marquesderiscal.com/en

Wine Reviews

2023 Marques de Riscal Rueda

This organic wine is a testament to Marqués de Riscal’s commitment to quality and innovation. This vibrant white wine, crafted from the Verdejo grape, offers a bouquet of white flowers with hints of grass and fennel. On the palate, it is crisp and refreshing, with a well-balanced acidity that makes it a perfect companion for seafood dishes and light salads. The finish is clean and lingering, leaving a pleasant aftertaste that invites another sip.

90 Points
Liz Palmer

2020 Marques de Riscal Reserva

This Rioja wine is a robust red wine that showcases the depth and complexity of the Tempranillo grape. Aged for 24 months in American oak barrels, this wine exudes rich aromas of licorice, cinnamon and black pepper. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, with well-integrated tannins with a long, persistent finish.

This Rioja Reserva pairs beautifully with grilled meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

93 Points
Liz Palmer

Wine Review: Réserve de la Terre – Champagne Telmont is an elegant and sustainable choice for Valentine’s Day!

I invite you to immerse yourself in elegance and sustainability this Valentine’s Day with a bottle of Réserve de la Terre – Champagne Telmont. This champagne will not only tantalize your palate but also exemplify environmentally sustainable practices.

Réserve de la Terre is a non-vintage cuvée made from three harvests: 2020 at 70%, 2019 at 15%, and 2018 at 15%, with blends of three grape varieties: Meunier at 37%, Chardonnay at 43%, and Pinot Noir at 20%.

Tasting Notes: a delegate gold hue and on the nose, it presents a bouquet of fresh citrus fruits, white flowers, and subtle hints of brioche. The palate is well-balanced with flavors of green apple, and plum with a hint of spice, complemented by a fine and persistent mousse. The finish is long and refreshing, with a mineral undertone that adds complexity and depth to the overall profile.

I found this champagne to be sophisticated and elegant, while simultaneously offering a delightful sensory experience.
93 Points
Liz Palmer

History of Telmont: The House of Telmont was founded in 1912 by Henri Lhopital in Damery, a village in the heart of the Champagne region in France. Over the years, Telmont has built a reputation for producing high-quality champagnes that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The family-owned estate has always been committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, which is evident in their organic and biodynamic vineyard management. In recent years, Telmont has taken significant steps towards reducing their carbon footprint and promoting biodiversity, making them a pioneer in the world of sustainable viticulture. Telmont has converted its 24.5ha estate to organics. The Organic Cuvée Telmont Réserve de la Terre is a testament to their dedication to preserving the environment while crafting exceptional champagnes.

Exploring Champagne Duval-Leroy + Prestige 1er Cru Brut 2008 Blanc de Blancs

History and Evolution of Duval-Leroy

The Duval-Leroy champagne house, established in 1859 through the partnership of Jules Duval and Edouard Leroy, has evolved into a symbol of quality and tradition. Duval-Leroy is situated in the picturesque town of Vertus, France. Unique among champagne houses, Duval-Leroy remains independent and family-managed. This enduring continuity allows the house to uphold its traditional values while adopting innovations that enhance both the quality of its champagnes and its environmental impact.

Since the late 20th century, under the leadership of Carol Duval-Leroy, the house has experienced significant growth and modernization, establishing itself as one of the leading champagne producers globally. Carol Duval-Leroy stands out as one of the few women to helm a champagne house, pioneering sustainable practices in viticulture and production, and driving innovation in winemaking processes.

Duval-Leroy was also among the first to obtain sustainable viticulture certification for its vineyards, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible production.

Wine Tasting Notes: Duval Leroy Prestige 1er Cru Brut 2008 Blanc de Blancs

Duval Leroy Prestige 1er Cru Brut 2008 Blanc de Blancs is an elegant Champagne crafted exclusively from 100% Chardonnay grapes sourced from the premier vineyards of the Côte des Blancs. This prestigious cuvée reveals an inviting bouquet of fresh baked brioche, honey, and baked apple, accented by delicate aromas of walnuts. The fine and persistent perlage enhances the sensory experience, offering a lively and elegant effervescence.

On the palate, it unfolds with vibrant flavors of green apple and zesty lemon, accompanied by a subtle hint of nuts. The wine is beautifully balanced, with a harmonious interplay of fruit and acidity, leading to an elegant, light mineral finish. This wine stands as a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and quality of the Duval Leroy house.

93 Points
Liz Palmer

Celebrate the Magic of Christmas with Pommery’s Grand Cru Royal Brut Champagne 2009

Looking for the perfect holiday wine?

Let me introduce you to one of my favorites: Pommery’s Grand Cru Royal Brut Champagne 2009! This exceptional vintage is sure to elevate your celebrations.

Tasting Notes: Golden hue, very fine effervescence. Exceptional brilliance. The first nose is discreet and fresh. The aromas are floral and sweet with hints of citrus and figs. Exceptional mineralogy on the palate with some citrus and green apple, with notes of almond and toasted bread which adds complexity to this cuvee. A long, creamy finish with crisp acidity.
93 Points_LIz Palmer

This champagne is a gastronomic delight, perfectly crafted to enhance and complement a wide range of exquisite dishes, such as:

• Fresh oysters and seafood platters

• Roasted poultry + turkey

• Creamy risottos or truffle pasta

• Cheeses like Brie, Camembert – *my
favourite – aged Comté

• Lemon tart

🌟 Raise a glass to a sparkling holiday season and enjoy this remarkable Champagne! 🍾🥂

Champagne Pommery is available at LCBO
NO HST (ONTARIO) THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!!

Champagne Pommery Grand Cru Royal Brut 2009 | LCBO #40870

‘Tis the season for gifting… Pommery!

Wine Review: NV Champagne Pommery Brut Rosé Royal

Pommery Brut Rosé Royal is a non-vintage champagne coming from the same blend as the Brut Royal which is 31% Chardonnay, 38% Pinot Noir and 31% Pinot Meunier. This rose has aged in the bottle for 3 years on lees, and an additional 6 months after disgorging.

Tasting Notes:
Beautiful delicate pale pink in color, with fine beads and persistence. Palate of red berries, and stone fruit, with appealing freshness, liveliness and lovely finesse – 94 points

It’s a champagne that is celebratory by day and romantic by night – perfect for Valentine’s Day !

“NV Champagne Pommery Brut Rosé Royal is perfecting for paring with Red Roses” Liz Palmer