We don’t usually feature Vintages selections on What Wines When since they tend to come and go, but it is so difficult to find a great Pinot Noir at a reasonable price ($15.95) that we wanted to bring your attention to Emiliana Gran Reserva Pinot Noir 2018.
Emiliana Novas Gran Reserva Pinot Noir 2018 ($15.95)
Chile: Casablanca Valley
An organic wine with a brilliant garnet colour and sour cherry and leather aromas.
Tastes of cherries, sweet and sour, raspberries and red currants plus a touch of earth in a light/medium body.
Tannins are light with lively acidity, it drinks nicely on its own but it pairs well with baked Atlantic salmon fillets.
ABV 13.5%, 7 g/L residual sugar.
Bonus Tip: If the LCBO ever runs out of stock at your local store, they will order it in for you at no additional cost.
Fortunately, our second pick is popular and well stocked, so the Toro Bravo Verdejo-Sauvignon Blanc at only $8.25 makes for an easy decision.
Toro Bravo Verdejo - Sauvignon Blanc ($8.25).
Spain: La Mancha
Terrific value for those not caring for intense bone dry white wines, the Toro Bravo is off dry and subdued (mainly due to the 70% Verdejo grapes in the blend).
Straw yellow in colour and aromatic nose with peach notes.
The Sauvignon Blanc contributes pear, lemon zest and citrus tastes plus some acidity.
Light/medium bodied and well balanced, it drinks smoothly and is versatile, good for spritzers, warm weather sipping or serve with cheese. It's also vegan.
ABV 11.5%, 9 g/L residual sugar.