What To Try At Calgary’s WineFest 2012

Calgary’s WineFest goes this weekend at the BMO Centre and I’ll be in the booth with Delf Wines pouring up some samples for the masses.

Before I tell you about the wines in the flight we’ll be sampling, make sure you check out these tips on How To “Do” A Winefest. While some treat it as a wild open bar party, it really can be an educational experience (and party) if you approach it properly.

This year at WineFest, I’ll be pouring 13 wines from Italy, Spain ,and Argentina, here are a few of the highlights:

ARGENTINA:
Finca Los Primos Syrah 2010
Peppery, earthy, tea, black cherry, smoky nose. Soft, round, smooth, slightly sweet entry with good acidity. Spicy, black cherry, cedar, meaty, pepper flavours.

Famiglia Bianci Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
90 points | Category Champion | Wine Access 2011 International Value Wine Awards
“The nose has intense aromas of cassis, plum and hints of the menthol and dried herbs that are typical of cabernet sauvignon. The palate is quite complex, offering a lot for this price point.”

SPAIN:
Castano Lujuria 2009
89 points | Killer Value & Best of Spain | Wine Access Magazine 2011 International Value Wine Awards
“Bright red fruit (strawberry, raspberry), blackberry and perfume notes on the nose are elegantly simple and alluring. It’s a silky, medium-bodied red that delivers raspberry and cherry notes with light acidity and soft tannin.”

Castaño Hecula 2008
89 points | The Wine Advocate
“The 2008 Hecula is 100% Monastrell sourced from 35 to 60 year-old vines and aged 50% in tank and 50% in French oak. Ripe, sweetly-fruited, and forward, this crowd-pleaser can be enjoyed now and over the next 4 years.”
Robert Parker

ITALY:
Villa Teresa Organic Rose Frizzante
Vancouver Magazine Wine Awards 2011 – Best Sparkling
“Put a little pink on the table! Delicate cherry, strawberry and oral aromas with lovely red fruit avours and gentle bubble keep it fresh and fun.”
BCLDB Taste Magazine – Fall 2010

Villa Teresa Organic Merlot 2010
Medium-bodied with full flavours of cherries and plums — all the fruit but without the sweetness. Its Italian character comes through in earthy and herbal notes. Excellent with salami, pork and white roasted meats.

If you’re coming to WineFest this weekend, please introduce yourself to me in the Delf booth.