Wines of the week

Many of you consult the SAQ website to find out the sugar and alcohol levels of wines. But the wines are not analyzed for each new vintage; this data is therefore not always up to date. For Mullineux wine, we indicate 13.5% alcohol, and for that of Bacchantes, 12.5%! In any case, this information should be taken with a grain of salt: more than any number, it is the balance of the wine that counts above all!

Local: a local area that makes its mark

Established since 2013 in Hemmingford, in the south of Montérégie, the Les Bacchantes estate has discreetly become one of the best in Quebec. Without fanfare, but with a lot of observation, reflection and common sense, the team produces straight, authentic and honest wines, entirely in the image of their terroir. And with the desire to offer affordable wines, the prices are low. Made from 100% Marquette and vinified in stainless steel vats, the R1 2021 is very light, fresh and lively, with notes of small red fruits, blueberries and pepper, and a herbaceous and floral touch. Crunchy and easy to drink, with very few tannins, it should be served chilled, in the spirit of a Beaujolais. Simple, but very well made and tasty, it will accompany cold meats, a homemade hamburger, a beet salad, or even fish with tomatoes or olives.

Keep: to drink

Les Bacchantes R1 Marquette Vin du Québec 2021, $17.15, (14455436), 11.5%

Consult the SAQ sheet

Discovery: the best of South Africa

The reputation of Andrea and Chris Mullineux is well established. They have contributed greatly to revaluing the Swartland region and its heritage of old vines, and are today among the best winegrowers in South Africa. Their greatest wines have become very expensive, but to our greatest pleasure, they also produce affordable vintages. This also offers excellent value for money. The nose, discreet, opens with aromas of ripe pear, quince and yellow apple, mixed with notes of white flowers and herbs. And what a beautiful mouth! Round and caressing, it is carried by a fresh acidity and very light tannins which provide depth. A mineral impression emerges in the finish. Fruit, texture, tasty character and impeccable hold. Crab, rillettes or fish cakes, salmon with fromage blanc, roast pork with apricots.

Keeping: 4 to 6 years

Mullineux Kloof Street Old Vine Chenin Blanc Swartland 2022, $22.80, (12889409), 13%

Consult the SAQ sheet

Classic: Rosso, a little brother to discover

The vines of Montalcino, in southern Tuscany, are the source of one of the greatest wines in Italy: Brunello di Montalcino, aged for several years before being released to the market. The Rosso is its little brother. Both are made with Sangiovese (known locally as Brunello), but Rosso is more approachable, in style and price, with a much shorter aging period. It nevertheless remains a powerful wine: the region is one of the warmest in Tuscany. It is restrained on the nose, closer to the earth than to the fruit, with notes of undergrowth, dried herbs, tobacco. The palate offers a ripe and suave fruity substance, but it is also firm. Lots of freshness and tight tannins bring brightness and chew. Frame for the table or guard. Fiorentina steak, prime rib, eggplant parmigiana.

Keeping: 6 to 8 years

Corte Pavone Rosso di Montalcino 2021, $28, (15117199), 15%, organic

Consult the SAQ sheet