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As an ice breaker for students coming into my introduction to wine appreciation class, I ask people to share a favourite wine memory. Most summon a moment with family, friends or strangers where a glass of wine created a common bond.
They might have been in a different part of the world or home, at a restaurant or a guest in someone’s house, but no matter the specific place and time, the wine isn’t often the star of the story. The producer and vintage aren’t usually mentioned. Details about the wine and its origins are often basic facts – “a pinot noir,” “German white” or “Chianti.” The more important aspect was how that bottle endures as symbol of generosity or a turning point that introduced a new taste sensation or the start of a lasting relationship.
I mention this to soothe any potential anxiety about last-minute holiday shopping for wine. There are plenty of collectible labels from iconic wineries available right now, but you don’t need to splurge to get a great bottle. These nine selections are complex and crowd-pleasing, made in a range of styles and offering solid value for the price. Each one has the potential to inspire lasting memories of time well spent.
Aveleda Lisboa Red 2021 (Portugal), $12.90
Best known for its thirst-quenching Vinho Verde wines, Aveleda is responsible for this terrific value red from Portugal. A rewarding blend of grape varieties, including touriga nacional and syrah, yields a rich and juicy mid-weight red that’s an ideal entertaining selection. Lightly chill for best enjoyment. Drink now. Available at the above price in Ontario, various prices in British Columbia (private stores), $13.15 in Quebec, $17.99 in New Brunswick, $17.97 in Nova Scotia.
Clarence Dillon Clarendelle Blanc 2022 (France), $24.95
Clarendelle is produced by Domaine Clarence Dillon, which owns Haut-Brion, La Mission Haut-Brion and Quintus in Bordeaux. The white is a blend of sauvignon blanc, semillon and muscadelle, which results in a wine with a focused and fresh character marked by herbal and citrus notes. This is a harmonious and structured white that offers flavour and refreshment to be sipped on its own or with food. Drink now-2028. Available at the above price in Ontario, $34.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta.
Flowers Pinot Noir 2022 (United States), $69.95
One of the first to see the potential for pinot noir in Sonoma Coast, Flowers produces its entry level label with grapes from its organically farmed Sea View Ridge vineyard as well as family owned sites in the region. This is a nicely layered and structured expression, with a core of cherry and plum fruit that’s rounded out by fragrant spice, floral and herbal notes. Earthy and dusty accents on the lingering finish add to the complexity and enjoyment factor. Drink now-2029. Available at the above price in Ontario, $79.99 in British Columbia.
Marques de Murrieta Reserva 2019 (Spain), $40.95
This ripe and expressive tempranillo blend from Rioja reveals satisfying cherry and berry fruit with floral and toasty notes. Balanced, with a pure, velvety texture, this inviting red wine is ready to enjoy with potential to develop in the cellar. It could benefit from decanting before dinner. Drink now-2035. Available at the above price in Ontario, various prices in Alberta, $37.25 in Quebec, $46.79 in New Brunswick.
Marques de Riscal Rioja Reserva 2019 (Spain), $29.75
This well-known Rioja label continues to impress with its tempranillo and graciano blend aged 21 months in American oak. A complex and nicely integrated red wine, this offers pleasing fruit, spice and savoury notes, with a core of plum and cherry fruit enhanced by oak-derived vanilla, earthy and balsamic notes. Serious structure and harmony for the price. Vegan friendly. Drink now-2040. Available at the above price in Ontario, $29.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta, $39.99 in Saskatchewan, $31.99 in Manitoba, $28.75 in Quebec, $75.99 in Nova Scotia (1,500 ml format), $36.74 in Newfoundland.
Monasterio de las Viñas Reserva 2019 (Spain), $16.95
This consistently great value wine comes from old vineyards in Cariñena. The blend of garnacha (grenache), tempranillo, cariñena (Carignan) and cabernet contributes to a medium-bodied and dry red with complex fruity and savoury notes. The spicy character makes for a nice pairing with braised and baked dishes. Drink now-2028. Available at the above price in Ontario, $15.99 in British Columbia ($13.99 until Dec. 28), various prices in Alberta, $26.99 in Saskatchewan, $16.99 in Manitoba, $23 in New Brunswick.
Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz/Cabernet 2021 (Australia), $18.99
First produced in 1976, Koonunga Hill is a rich and intense multi-region blend of shiraz and cabernet sauvignon from South Australia. its full-bodied character and plush texture make this easy to appreciate, while the core of dark fruit with oak-derived chocolate and peppery spice is enjoyable on its own or with a meal. Drink now-2028. Available at the above price in Ontario, $17.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta, $23.99 in Saskatchewan, $19.99 in Manitoba, $18.40 in Quebec, $22 in New Brunswick, $25.49 in Nova Scotia, $24.27 in Newfoundland.
Reyneke Organic Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 (South Africa), $21.95
From one of South Africa’s leading organic producers, this shiraz-based blend is fragrant and fine. The mix of ripe, dark fruit flavours is enhanced by peppery, earthy and herbal notes. The medium-bodied red is nicely structured and balanced with a lingering, fresh finish that adds to the appeal. Drink now-2028. Available at the above price in Ontario, $28.99 in British Columbia (Everything Wine), $21.25 in Quebec.
Trimbach Riesling 2022 (France), $29.95
A benchmark style for dry riesling from Alsace, Trimbach’s classic label is bright, refreshing and persistent. Fermented in stainless steel and bottled under screwcap, this fresh white offers citrus and apple fruit as part of its crisp and clean character. Drink now-2032. Available at the above price in Ontario, $37.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta, $30.25 in Quebec (2021 vintage).
