Wine reviews by Mark Cochrane

by Mark Cochrane

Hello and welcome to my new wine review column in the Millstone news. I will be reviewing wine, travelling to meet local craft brewers and wine makers as well as attending wine and beer festivals around the Ottawa valley. I will endeavour to bring an enthusiastic and informative view of the wine, craft beer, liquour industry to this wine column.

I am passionate about wine and everything that orbits the wine industry. I’ve always been fascinated with the history of wine, how wine is made, countries and regions that wine originates from and most important the product that is poured into your glass. I love wine so much that I became Sommelier 3 years ago and joined the National Capital Sommelier Guild so that I can continue to enjoy wine year round. I also own and operate a wine blog called www.markuncorked.com

My wine philosophy has always been to seek out exceptional wines from around the world but at reasonable prices. On occasion, I will review a wine that covers the higher end of the market like a Montrachet or a Brunello di Montalcino but the focus will always be on wines that “fit” your everyday lifestyle and price point.

So welcome to what will hopefully become a bi-monthly review of wine, craft beer and whiskey products available to Mississippi Mills residents.

2014 Cono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Grigio – Chile ($9.90 – LCBO 366344)

I’ve tried several different wines from the Cono Sur Bicicleta series and have not been disappointed so far. This light golden coloured Pinot Grigio has distinctive aromas of peach, pear and some yellow apple. The texture is softer than most Pinot Grigio’s which are known for their crispness. The pear and stone fruit flavours paired nicely with the Dijon and maple syrup glazed salmon that was served with the wine.

2011 Beso de Vino Seleccion – Carinena, Spain ($9.95 LCBO – 231787)

A dark red blend of 85% Syrah and 15% Granacha aged 3 months in French oak barrels yields a rich wine with fruit filled aromas of black cherry and dark fruit. It has pronounced flavours of prune, plum with some spice and a medium tannic structure. This is an exceptional Syrah blend from Spain for under $10.

We paired this wine with a bourbon glazed pork tenderloin which worked quite well.

Cheers!

Mark Cochrane

Email me at markuncorked@gmail.com

Visit my website at www.markuncorked.com