A fresh, verdant Sauvignon Blanc with a fantastic price tag.
Aromas of nettle, grass clippings and gooseberry, green papaya and passionfruit with a whiff of jalapeno. There is a hint of sweetness on the palate and it is not a shy wine - it's loaded flavours of nettle, snap peas and citrus peel that linger through the finish.
A very affordable crowd-pleaser.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 7th, 2010

Fresh!
Aromas of green apple and citrus with hints of jalapeno, sweet herbs and flinty mineral notes. The palate is tart and clean, the flavours echo its aromas, layering fresh apple and green fruit/herbal flavours.
Very good value in a NZ Sauvignon Blanc!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 7th, 2010

Winemaker Michael Bartier blends: Kerner, Gewurztraminer, Schoenberger, Muller Thurgau and Pinot Gris into this Riesling dominant white. And, he has outdone himself with this vintage; it is shamelessly aromatic offering lychee, stone fruit and tangerine peel notes, honey and apples, exotic blossoms and ginger. The palate is slick, nicely weighted on the tongue and slightly sweet but nicely balanced with mouth-watering acidity. Expect very nice concentration and a long, pristine finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 30th, 2010

Perhaps Vancouver PR and marketing maven Chris Coletta did go a little "haywire" when she and her partner purchased an old orchard in Summerland in 2005 and eventually becoming garagiste winemakers. But this just released, 168 first vintage cases of Pinot Gris shows a good, honest wine with an abundance of pretty aromas. It is a pristine fruit-cup of melon, Bosc pear and honey with spring blossoms and a hint of minerality. The palate is delicate, it is crisp and light with nice pomelo citrus and tree fruit flavours, the finish is long and clean.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 30th, 2010

I met Roger Wong several years ago - just after he started making wine at Gray Monk in Lake Country (just beyond Kelowna). I had been a huge fan of his private label Focus Riesling - a sturdy (un-Riesling-like) bottle with its crown cap topper. Well, Roger has delved in again, this time he is partners at the nearby Intrigue Wines. It is a busy time for a guy with two very young sons and a full time job (which he loves) at one winery while he manages to produce at his own. And as a heads up to those of you who remember (and loved) the Focus Riesling...it may return.
His Riesling is bright and crisp - fresh lemon and lime and tart apple with hints of stone fruits and honey blossoms. A very balanced kiss of sweetness makes the apple, apricot and citrus flavours pop. Nice concentration with a lovely slickness on the palate and a clean, crisp finish.
Well done.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 30th, 2010

This is a delicious wine with all the elements you desire in a balanced Riesling; appealing aromas of peaches and tangerine peel, lemon drops and honeysuckle flowers. There is kiss of sweetness in the mouth but with plenty of lively citrus flavours to balance it. It's fresh, has very nice concentration and a snappy finish. A wine that will pair nicely spicy vegetable samosas.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 24th, 2010

I really love the delicate aromas in this wine...the soft honey and peach with more obvious gala apple and floral notes are very appealing. Iit is crisp, dry and light-bodied with bright lime and grapefruit flavours - finish is long and zesty but not aggressive. Perfect served with agadashi tofu or rice topped with a spicy peanut/curry sauce.
Excellent value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 20th, 2010

The punchbowl vineyard called Pewsey Vale is located far above the Barossa Valley Floor in Eden Valley. Standing on the lip of this wonderful hidden oasis and scanning its undulating rows of vines I wondered just how Joseph Gilbert stumbled upon it in 1847 and had the foresight to plant vines on this revered site. Thankfully he did and today Pewsey Vale still produces fantastic wines like this taut, fragrant Riesling. When you dive in, it offers aromas of lemon marmalade and honeysuckle with soft talc and mineral notes. On the palate, it is a mouth-watering liquid with lemon drop and honey flavours, the finish is long, pristine and bright.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 20th, 2010

Californian Sauvignon Blancs tend more toward fruit and floral as opposed to the nettle, cut grass and asparagus characteristics of their New Zealand counterparts.
The Charlotte's Home releases sweet melon and nectarine, spring blossoms and lemon balm aromas. The palate is tart and citrusy with a creamy edge and similar layers of melon and crisp nectarine. It is very clean with lovely weight and a mouth-watering finish - very tasty!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 19th, 2010

From the Artisan Wine Company's portfolio, this consumer friendly and value-priced Pinot Gris has confectionary aromas of candied pear, honey and citrus blossoms. The palate is a a sweet fruit-cup of slightly over-ripe tree fruits with a good dose of acidity to clean up.
Affordable by-the-case for a party.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 6th, 2010

Well, it dosen't get much fresher than this...
A bouquet of sweet grass clippings, nettle, passionfruit and golden kiwi, citrus and mineral notes. A lovely (bordering on slick) texture, tangy, lively and chock full of fruit with layers of sweet pea shoots, jalapeno and citrus and a long, zesty finish.
Delish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 29th, 2010

From Dunham Froese's certified organic estate vineyard, this very tasty Sauvignon Blanc offers a fruit cup of aromas with creamy honey and undertones of sugar snap peas. On the palate the lovely sweet fruit continues, it is lively but with a slightly creamy edge and has a crisp zesty finish.
Worth seeking!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 28th, 2010

This estate Riesling is a fragrant bouquet of meyer lemon, honey, spring blossoms and slate. Nicely weighted and lively on the palate with flavours of green apples, lemon drops and honey. It is off-dry but with nicely balanced acidity and has a sweet, juicy finish.
Lovely.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 26th, 2010

Great value!
Expect verdant grassy notes with passionfruit, juicy citrus and a hint of peach. The palate is tart, crisp and fresh, a mix of tropical and citrus fruit flavours spiked with jalapeno and culminating in a mouthwatering finish. Pair with fresh fish, greens tossed in vinagrette or goat cheese.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 26th, 2010

Sporting a new label (read the story on the back label) and a new, lighter coloured bottle the Poacher's White still retains its freshness and value.
Lemons and honeysuckle, a hint of sweet herbs and a whiff of talc. The palate is mouthwateringly crisp with layers of lemon meringue, honey and tangerine peel - a fruitcup of flavours linger on the finish.
Very good!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 26th, 2010

A new label adorns this attractively-priced aromatic blend from De Bortoli's DB Family Selection. Fragrant orangeblossoms and stone fruits, honey and exotic spice aromas reappear on the palate with a lingering spicy finish. Off-dry but very juicy with a mouth-watering finish to cleanse the palate.
This is a tasty, no-brainer patio sipper or pair with spicy fish cakes or Thai noodle salads.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 20th, 2010

Like a financial blind trust the executors - in this case Laughing Stock Vineyards has full control over over the blend and could simply say, "It's a proprietary blend which we have no need to disclose..."
But they do. It is a proprietary blend containing: Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Pinot Blanc - for a precise breakdown you need only look beneath your bottle's capsule.
Lush aromas - pear and apple, some honey and vanilla, a hint of caramel with exotic floral and herbal layers and plenty of lemony notes. Great concentration on the palate - pear, melon and spice, vanilla and vibrant citrus flavours wrapped in creamy texture. The finish is very long and mouth-watering with zesty flavours.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 20th, 2010

Yalumba's Oxford Landing produces this fresh, fragrant Pinot Gris. It releases aromas of minerals and creamy pears, nectarine and rich honey with herbal notes and a hint of toast. The palate is lively, an echo of crisp white fruit, citrus, herbal and toasted flavours with a mouth-watering and zesty finish.
Tasty and a good value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 15th, 2010

The second vintage of this multi-varietal blend of: Ortega, Madeline Angevine, Madeline Sylvaner, Siegerrebe and Reichensteiner is a lovely blushing pink colour. It's a fragrant wine, weaving apricots, citrus and warm pear aromas together with notes of summer flowers and honey. The palate is bright with an appealing dose of sweetness - apricot, pear and citrus flavours reappear in the mouth. The acidity balances the fruit sweetness, it has a lovely weight and a nice crisp finish.
Very tasty and made from certified organic estate grown grapes!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 15th, 2010

This fun new Aussie blonde is a zippy (not dippy) blend of Riesling, Chenin Blanc and Semillon from Barossa wiith 14% Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc.
Expect to be enticed by bright citrus, spring blossoms and lime peel aromas with a hint of white nectarine. The palate is snappy, literally lip-smacking. Flavours of citrus dominate, layered with tart stone fruit and mineral flavours that lead into a long clean finish.
If you love Eden Valley Rieslings, this blonde is just your type...
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 15th, 2010

This lovely spumante (lightly bubbly) rose is made from Prosecco and the light and fruity, red Marzimino grape (classic to the region of Trentino, in Northern Italy). It has the powdery pink colour of cherry blossoms and pretty aromas of berries and cream, peach, citrus and rose petals. It is juicy and has a kiss of sweetness in the mouth with a nice creamy edge - expect bright flavours of pink grapefruit, tart berries and orchard fruits to linger. Perfectly refreshing as a summer sipper or an aperitif any time of the year.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 14th, 2010

You can never go wrong with the familiar Burrowing Owl Pinot Gris, it is as charming the first time as the last you've had it.
Exprect aromas of pear compote and ripe peaches with layers of exotic flowers, vanilla, citrus and honey. On the palate the same pleasing fruit, vanilla and citrus reappear bound in a creamy texture with brisk acidity.
Pair with creamy mushroom dishes or seafood.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 14th, 2010

A fresh, light Pinot Grigio perfect for fish, salads and light antipasti.
Typical fragrant tree fruit aromas, mineral and citrus layers with just a hint of herbs. The palate is crisp but with a pleasing roundness, the fruit is lifted by lively acidity and the finish is clean.
A perfectly pleasing everyday dinner or sipping wine!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 14th, 2010

This fragrant blend of Malvasia Bianca, Muscat, Viognier, Gruner Veltliner and Pinot Grigio (accoding to the label) is a fantastic value and offers a great balance of aromatics, fruit and acidity.
Ripe mango and peach aromas, grapefruit and orange blossoms with warm spice and candied notes. The palate presents gobs of sweet apricot and peaches, honey and mouth-watering citrus followed with exotic spice. A nice lush texture with lively acidity makes this wine a fantastic sipper, or pair with fresh, spicy dishes.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 8th, 2010

This limited edition soccer label is a fresh version with lively aromas of peach and golden pineapple, citrus zest, grass clippings, plenty of minerality and a hint of vanilla. The palate is snappy and gently rounded - it is a mouthful of ripe pineapple, sweet herbs, grapefruit and mineral flavours with a nice mouth-watering finish to complete it.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 7th, 2010

Very good value!
This fresh, light Sauvignon Blanc has peachy hints with citrus, sweet grass and a hint of vanilla on the nose. The palate has a slightly vivace tickle with nice crisp white fruit and citrus flavours. A simple sipper for the patio or pair with fresh shellfish and summer salads.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 7th, 2010

This unique bottle may or may not appeal visually to you, but its interesting ergonomic bottle design makes this wine weirdly easy to pour...
It is a crisp light-bodied white with floral, tree fruit and honey aromas with just a hint of bitter almond. The palate is bright and light too but it has a creamy edge with almond, apple, citrus and honey flavours. Fun and very easy quaffing, this wine will also pair well with seafood salads and mild cheeses.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

You can expect very pretty aromas of peach and Meyer lemon, orange blossoms and a nice mineral core. Those aromas are echoed on the palate, it has a kiss of sweetness and a slightly creamy texture with bright acidity to balance and is followed by a snappy citrussy finish.
Pair with mildly spicy dishes, summer potato salad and sushi.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

A consistent producer and a consistent Pinot Gris, this Tinhorn Creek white presents aromas of fresh orchard fruits, honey, citrus and hints of summer flowers. Similar tree fruit and honey flavours reappear on the palate with a layer of grapefruit zest. Expect nice bright acidity throughout and a clean snappy finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 30th, 2010

Deliciously aromatic!
This indigenous Argentine white variety offers up aromas of kaffir lime leaf and stone fruit, orange blossoms and fine, exotic spice notes. The palate has just a kiss of sweetness and it presents ripe tropical fruit and peach, anise and lime oil flavours that lead to a long zesty and spiced finish. It has fantastic acidity to balance the hint of sweetness and a lovely weight that slides across your tongue.
Yum!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 22nd, 2010

Once again this abundantly perfumed wine from Hillside arrives in time for your summer sipping enjoyment.
Pretty honey and tangerine aromas, white grape-y notes and lime oil, orchard blossoms and exotic spice. Nicely weighted on the palate - juicy apple peel, citrus and stone fruit flavours with suitably balanced acidity.
Pair with fresh and spicy noodle salads.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 22nd, 2010

The unique Argentine grape variety, Torrontes produces a supremely aromatic wine. The Circus presents a fragrant bouquet of stone fruit, lime leaf and exotic flowers with a spicy core. The texture is slick, it's a weighty, potent white with plenty of lime peel, mineral, stone fruit and marshmallow flavours peppered with spice. Impressive concentration and lively acidity throughout.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 22nd, 2010

Another easy-sipping white from [yellow tail] this fragrant Pinot Grigio smells of fresh pears and honey, orchard blossoms and a hint of talc. The palate is creamy but very lively with ripe orchard fruit and citrus flavours.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 21st, 2010

Aromas of sunwarmed peaches and lemon-lime, honey and exotic flower notes with just a hint of herbs. The palate has plenty of rich honeyed and pomelo citrus flavours. Very easy sipping with a mouth-watering finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 20th, 2010

A solid value and always consistent rose made of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah from mountainside vineyards in the southern Rhone Valley appellation of Ventoux.
Pretty aromas of berries in cream, violets and sweet spice with cherry notes. The palate dry but the berry fruit is ripe and sweet, hints of vanilla custard and fine spicebox flavours linger. Great acidity and a brilliant ruby red colour.
Great value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 18th, 2010

A fantastic blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Viognier and a dash of Muscat that screams summer, the 2Bench White offers lovely aromas of ripe peach and apple, vanilla, exotic flowers and tangerine zest with hints of marshmallow and honey. Sweet, juicy orchard fruit and warm spice leads the palate, it has a creamy texture and lively acidity followed by a long zesty finish.
Reccommended pairings; white fish, creamy washed rind cheeses or grilled chicken.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 17th, 2010

A 500ml bottle of slightly sparkling and aromatic fun!
Lightly frizzante with white grape and orange blossom aromas with zesty lime and pink grapefruit notes. The palate is sweet but has plenty of zippy acidity to clean up. Nice as an aperitif or with a cheese plate.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 16th, 2010

Great value!
This vibrant and juicy Sauv Blanc presents grapefruit, cut grass, white flowers and sweet herbal tones, minerals and lemon zest. The palate is clean and taut with plenty of bright citric and mineral flavours. A very pleasing and affordable everyday drinking wine or pair it with a fresh greens and chevre salad.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 16th, 2010

Made from equal parts of Merlot and Cabernet Franc with the addition of 8% Pinot Gris this new addition (the first vintage of a Tinhorn Creek pink) is a welcome one!
Aromas of peach stone and rhubarb, vanilla and orange creme with hints of forest floor, wild herbs and spice. The palate presents juicy berry fruit with a hint of apple peel and peach. The finish is long with mouth-watering acidity to balance its sweet fruit flavours.
Like most rose, this one will pair with, cheese, hearty salads, seafood or appetizers on the patio...
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 10th, 2010

The Mission Hill Rose returns as a welcome addition to your summer sipper options - great for sipping, snacking on the patio, or pair with cheese, fish, hearty salads...
Expect aromas of sweet spice, strawberry jam and blackberries, with a fragrant potpourri of dark flowers and cedar. The palate is brimming with juicy cherry and berry fruit, cigarbox and tart, zesty flavours. Nicely balanced acidity cleans up a kiss of sweetness.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 10th, 2010

Emiliana are the leaders in organic and biodynamic viticulture in Chile and biodynamic leaders world-wide - having visited, I know they take thie stuff very seriously!
This recently released 2009 rose is made from organically grown Syrah and presents fresh aromas of red berries, cigarbox and fine spices. The same sweet red fruit aromas appear on the palate with a hints of vanilla, and peppery spice that lingers on the finish. It is off-dry in the mouth but balanced with lively acidity.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 10th, 2010

An official product of the South Africa 2010 FIFA World Cup, Nederburg has come up with a Limited Edition line-up of wines including this crisp, verdant Sauvignon Blanc to sip while watching a football game!
Aromas of passion fruit and grass clippings with jalapeno, lime leaf and mineral notes. The palate is tart - flavours of citrus peel and nettle with plenty od herbal tones. Fresh, with mouth-watering acidity.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 9th, 2010

An official product of the South Africa 2010 FIFA World Cup, Nederburg has come up with a Limited Edition line-up of wines including this highly quaffable patio rose that will pair nicely with some appetizers and a football game!
It sports a screw cap for easy access and is a glorious ruby shade. It offers aromas of sweet black cherry and strawberry, violets and vanilla with undertones of tobacco, earth and leather. The palate is off-dry and balanced with lively acidity, it has plenty of juicy berry flavours and doesn't slouch on the finish.
Goal!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 9th, 2010

Great value!
A simple, fun sipping wine with low alcohol and just a prickle of vivace bubble on the tongue. Light ruby in colour it is a fresh wine that presents aromas of juicy cherry and red berries, vanilla and hints of peach pit. The palate is very juicy, it is off-dry but provides lively acidity to balance the sweetness. The bright peachy/berry flavours return on the palate with a zesty finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 8th, 2010

This made from organic grapes, traditional method Riesling bubbly is always a crowd pleaser. It releases aromas of green apples, spring blossoms and honey, chamomile tea with lemon and toasty, yeasty hints. On the palate it is slightly off-dry with fine bubbles with loads of mouth-watering citrus peel, creamy honey and orchard fruit. The finish is tart and snappy.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 8th, 2010

A winery with a long history, Schloss Gobelsburg was started by Cistercian monks in the 12th century. Now, here in the 21st century they present us with this gorgeous, intriguing white with aromas of lanoline, minerals, honeycomb and crisp orchard fruits with vague herbal tones and peppery hints. It has a lovely mouth-feel and nice weight with snappy acidity and flavours of crisp fruit, pepper and citrus peel. The finish is long and lively.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 8th, 2010

A fresh, everyday sipper that will pair well with creamy mushroom pasta or a chicken salad sandwich.
Expect bright tree fruit and floral notes with citrus the palate is crisp with lively acidity, sweet fruit and citrus flavours and a gently creamy texture.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 8th, 2010

Another lovely vintage for Hillside's Gew the 2008 shows rich honeyed aromas with mango and kaffir lime, grapefruit and plenty of exotic spice notes. It is expressive on the palate - very nice intensity and weight, the flavours echo the aromas - spiced honey, tropical fruit and citrus. The finish is slick and spicy.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 7th, 2010

If you glance quickly you may confuse this salmon-y hued Pinot Gris with a pale rose.
It presents aromas of tobacco and spiced pears, citrus blossoms, vanilla and peach stone with earthy, mineral and forest floor tones. It has impressive complexity and lively acidity with tart tree fruit and citrus flavours. The finish is lengthy with crisp mineral flavours lingering.
Pair this pretty Pinot Gris with creamy mushroom ravioli.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 7th, 2010

This old vines Riesling presents concentrated aromas of peach and apricot, musky wild honey and exotic citrus with just a hint of herbs. It shows impressive intensity on the palate as well - sweet apricot jam and mineral flavours, citrus and wild herbs. It is just off-dry and zesty with an wieghty, oily texture and a long finish. Will pair nicely with creamy sauces or mildly spicy Asian dishes.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 18th, 2010

This method champenoise sparkling is a fun pink sipper made from Granny Smith apples with a dosage of cassis - it's like drinking an un-traditional Kir Royal. It foams up like pink cotton candy in your glass and present aromas of apples, black berries and cranberry. It is off-dry on the palate and very mousse-y, it tastes of tart apples and sweet berries. It is bright and frivolous and tasty as heck.
Chill it down and sip it on the patio this summer.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 18th, 2010

Fun!
Here is a perfect summer sipper that will also pair well with Proscuitto di Parma and Parmagiano or a nice mixed antipasti platter.
This historical wine from Modena is a simple grape-y berry flavoured red frizzante (slightly bubbly) with an off-dry but balanced palate, nice weight and just a suggestion of tannin.
Chill it down and enjoy it all summer, the 8% alcohol is a blessing on hot summer days and the price makes it an easy buy-by-the-case wine.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 18th, 2010

You've seen the bottle before - it is an affordable, pleasant Cava that smells of flowers and talc, crisp apple and pears, citrus and vanilla with a toasty, caramel core. The palate is dry and fresh with toasty flavours wrapped in tart citrus. It has a nicely rounded palate with good mousse and a zesty finish.
Very good value.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 14th, 2010

Part of the Robert Oatley Vineyards collection, this delicious Pinot Gris hails the beautiful, cooler-climate Adelaide Hills wine region in South Australia.
James Oatley was Robert Oatley's great, great grandfather, a clockmaker in England who was sent to Sydney as a convict but later pardoned and continued to produce highly prized clocks. Tic Tok is Robert's tribute.
It features crisp green pear and citrus aromas, delicate floral and mineral notes. The palate is fresh and nicely rounded - plenty of bright citrus and tree fruits a long, clean gently spiced finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 3rd, 2010

A very impressive Pinot Gris made mostly from Strathbogie Ranges grapes with 10% from Mornington Peninsula. It has had enough skin contact to lend it a pretty salmony/golden hue and it releases lovely aromas of pears and honey, spring blossoms and hints of spice with tropical undertones. It is rich in the mouth with a creamy texture and bright acidity, the finish is extensive and faintly spicy.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 3rd, 2010

Just what you'd expect from a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, plenty of verdant aromas - grass clipings, passionfruit and nettle, kiwi and young pineapple. The palate shows impressive concentration, pristine tropical fruit and citrus with firm minerality. A delicious white, vibrant and juicy with a mouth-watering finish that leaves you wanting more!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 3rd, 2010

This very affordable Sauvignon Blanc from California's famous Gallo Family Vineyards will impress you with its all around flavour and value. Obvious grassy and herbal notes with white peaches and citrus aromas. The palate is fresh - it is simple and juicy with herbs and crisp tree fruit flavours. The finish is tart and zesty.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 1st, 2010

The Voga always gets a second look due to its appearance but it is also a nice, everyday crowd-pleasing white.
It is a fragrant wine - aromas of honeysuckle and pear, almond oil and talc. On the palate expect creamy white fruit and honey roasted nut flavours, bright citrus and a hint of spice.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 30th, 2010

Not only a good value sipper, but a wine that supports a very worthy cause. Having just celebrated one year since it's first release I watched recently as a $100,000 cheque was handed over to beneficiaries in support ecosystem conservation of the Great Bear Rainforest and Spirit Bears. In fact 15% of all sales from the WhiteBear Wines go to this important cause.
The Pinot Blanc is a refreshing white with crisp tree fruit, mineral and floral notes. The palate presents sweet apple and pear fruit flavours and hints of herbs with peachy flavours lingering on the finish.
A great everyday quaffer and very affordable too.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 29th, 2010

BC native and experienced international winemaker Ann Sperling creates a welcome addition to our growing wine industry - Sperling Vineyards, located in Kelowna.
The Market White is a fragrant blend of mostly Pinot Gris with Gewurztraminer and a dash of Riesling. Expect aromas of rose petals and honeysuckle, tropical lychee and vibrant grapefruit, a hint of sweet herbs and a whiff of star anise. The palate is off-dry, sweet and juicy stone fruits - think mango and peach - honey and light spice flavours, nice acidity cleans up the finish.
This will make a great patio sipper this summer or pair with spicy noodles or chili dipped spring rolls.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 29th, 2010

This classic BC Pinot Grigio has always provided good value and good sipping.
A pretty golden coppery colour it releases aromas of peach stone and honey, citrus blossoms and ripe white fruit notes. The palate is rounded and quite rich, with refreshing sweet fruit flavours and a long crisp finish with just a hint of spice.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 29th, 2010

I appreciate Riesling in pretty much any form - be it bracing and steely or fragrant and off-dry - it's all about balance, and the JoieFarm version has that in spades.
On the nose you can expect lovely lemon, green apple and white blossoms with zesty citrus peel notes. It is off-dry, layered with sweet apricots, lemon drops and vauge peppery/spice hints but its the mouth-watering acidity which takes hold and cleans up the fruit sweetness, resulting in a crisp finish.
One glass will never be enough.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 28th, 2010

One in this series of wines from Artisan Wine Co. which rally behind the Okanagan Valley and its history, this Sauvignon Blanc is subtitled the Council's Punch Bowl in an homage to the lake, discovered in the mid 1800s by Hudson's Bay Company's Alexander Caulfield Anderson.
Across the board these wines are excellent value, they provide fruity, refreshing wines for everyday drinking and they do not pretend to anything more.
This is a very pretty wine with aromas of flowers and tangerine, honey and peach with grapefruit peel and just a hint of cut grass. The palate echos the sweet fruit of the nose, it is lively and fresh with a rounded texture and a zesty finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 28th, 2010

A pristine version of Chardonnay, the JoieFarm smells of fresh cut apples and pear, delicate spring blossoms and mandarin peel. The palate presents plenty of sweet creamy citrus flavours, honeyed peach and pear followed by a bright, crisp finish.
Very fresh!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 27th, 2010

This richly-hued white blend is a fresh and affordable everyday wine.
It presents plenty of citrus on the nose, melon and pineapple aromas with tones of spice, grapefruit peel and herbs. Bright and zesty on the palate it has a slightly creamy texture and flavours of cut grass, fresh herbs, pineapple and grapefruit with hints of vanilla.
Nicely balanced and very easy drinking!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 27th, 2010

Don't let its classic blue label fool you, inside is a vibrant, vivace wine that you should consider buying-by-the-case!
Bright tree fruit, mineral and citric aromas lead the way to a fresh, vivace (slightly bubbly or prickly) and crisp mouthful of goodness. Again tree fruits, citrus, hints of herbs mineral, appear on the palate with just a kiss of sweetness balanced by lively acidity and a softly rounded texture.
Great value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 27th, 2010

Alluring aromas of peach and tart green apples, citrus blossoms and slate with hints of tangerine. The plate is vibrant, sweet and tart with plenty of honey, minerality and crisp white fruit. It's off-dry but has lovely balance between sweetness and acidity with a silky texture, the finish is long and mouth-watering.
Pair with spicy, chilled noodles, sushi or rich, creamy dips.
Very good value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 27th, 2010

A crisp summer white made for salads, shellfish and chevre crostini.
Aromas of peaches and gooseberry, limeade and minerals with hints of grass translate into a citrussy mouthful with tart fruit and bright acidity. It has a slightly rounded texture and flavours of green papaya, peach, lime and fresh herbs.
Very pleasing.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 27th, 2010

This Chilean Sauvignon Blanc has loads of typical grassy, verdant herbal, nettle and green apple aromas, with lemon-lime, passionfruit and elderflower notes. The palate is snappy and fresh with sweet passionfruit and tart citric flavours. A very good value wine with a mouth-watering, zesty finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 26th, 2010

If you are a Riesling drinker, I'm pretty sure the Dr L has crossed you palate before.
A standby for summer sipping and spicier Asian cuisines, it presents aromas of apple peel and citrus, honey, white flowers and orchard fruits with mineral undertones. The palate is nicely weighted and slick with nice fruit sweetness balanced with mouth-watering acidity. You can expect flavours of sweet citrus, honey and green apples with a long crisp finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 26th, 2010

A summer favorite, the 2009 JoieFarm - A Noble Blend (a play on words as Noble is also co-owner and winemaker Heidi Noble's last name) is comprised of Gewurztraminer with 20% Pinot Gris, 12% Pinot Auxerrois and 8% Riesling.
It's a fragrant wine, laden with honeysuckle and rose oil, lychee and starfruit, citrus and honey with a core of exotic spices. The palate is juicy and bright with flavours of green apple and lime sprinkled with warm, sweet spice. Mouth-watering and delicious!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 26th, 2010

Balthasar Ress was one of my favourite visits during a 2008 German wine tour - the wines are consistently delicious too.
The Hattenheimer Schutzenhaus is a mouthful to say and a joy to sip. Expect aromas of slate and green apples, honey, spring blossoms and bright citrus. On the palate it is off-dry but is balanced with lively acidity and tangy lemondrop flavours.
Pair with sushi, spicy Indian dishes or tangy cheeses.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 26th, 2010

A mouth-watering Riesling, any time of the year and certainly one of my picks during the 2010 Vancouver Wine Festival!
Green apple peel and peach stone aromas, slate and brisk citric notes rounded out with honey and spring blossoms. The palate is crisp - zingy lemondrops, white fruit and steely minerality. This is not your grandmother's Riesling!
A great summer sipper, perfect with creamy potato salad or sushi, hollandaise and aioli sauces.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 23rd, 2010

This affordable German Riesling is a perfect sushi or summer salad wine with its bright aromas of citrus and apricot, delicate blossoms and crisp green apple with mineral tones. Apricot and green apple flavours reappear on the palate alongside tart lemon drops. A kiss of sweetness lingers in the mouth but is cleaned up with bright acidity plus the alcohol is only 9% - perfect for warm summer afternoons.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 19th, 2010

A nice addition to the Italian sparkling category this fragrant sparkling Pinot Grigio presents creamy peach and pear aromas, sweet citrus and pretty spring blossoms. It has a soft mousse with delicate bubbles and creamy fruit and citrus flavours. It has a kiss of sweetness with a tangy finish making this a refreshing sipper or pair it with antipasti.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 19th, 2010

NEW!
This very tasty, fragrant blend of Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris will be perfect with spicy dishes, sushi or just sipping on the patio!
There are very verdant cut grass and nettle notes, mineral and citrus lifted with stone fruit and melon with a whiff of elderflower. The palate is vibrant and juicy - loads of tropical fruit like pineapple and mango, exotic citrus, honey and sweet spice lingering. Not a shy wine - it is brimming with flavour, a kiss of sweetness is cleaned up with bright acidity, the texture is slightly slick and the finish is impressively long.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 15th, 2010

This recognizable, organic Prosecco with its old fashioned closure is a fantastic value!
It has nice complexity (especially for the price) toasty, leesy aromas with plenty of crsip vibrant citrus, talc and apple blossoms with hints of pear. The palate is suitably creamy with tree fruit, juicy citric and mineral flavours. A nice, rich mousse and slightly toasty finish rounds out this fresh bubbly - you'll want to enjoy a glass every day!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 12th, 2010

<Beato Bartolomeo Breganze blends the regional grapes Prosecco with the lesser known but aromatic Vespaiolo.
This creamy frizzante sparkler will entice you with its fresh fruit aromas - a compote of apple, peach and pear - pretty floral and talc notes, sweet citrus and just a hint of marzipan. The palate reflects its aromas - plenty of luscious orchard fruit and floral flavours with sweet citrus. Its lovely, bright acidity and a creamy mousse may convince you that you've just found a new favourite summer bubbly.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 19th, 2010

There were only 151 cases of this striking wine produced. And, despite the fact that the label says made in the Okanagan Valley, the grapes for this wine all come from JoieFarm's estate Muscat vines (aka Moscato Giallo or Yellow Muscat) within the small appellation of the Naramata Bench.
The aromas are fantastic - grape-y and floral with notes of peach sours, tangerine marmalade and just a hint of anise. Expect bracing acidity on the palate (as sweet as it smells, it is dry) with flavours of peach stone and tart lemon peel. It has a nice weight on the tongue with a slick texture - the finish is pristine and mouth-watering.
Well done and only 10.5% alcohol!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 19th, 2010

If you like rose as I do, you'll look forward to the release of the Chateau de la Galiniere each spring.
The 2009 is one-half Syrah plus Grenache, Cabernet and Mourvedre and has a delicate pale pink colour that suits its personality.
Fresh mountain stream minerality and sweet summer berry aromas with hints of violet, tobacco and earth. The palate has nice complexity for a rose, it is dry and silky in texture with flavours of berry, herbs, cedar and fine spice - red citrus flavours linger on the finish.
Very refreshing - pair with fish, summer salads or creamy cheeses.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 16th, 2010

Sweet yet tart this, just slightly frizzante (prickly on your tongue) rose will make a fun patio sipper - especially when paired with mildly spicy Indonesian dishes like Tohu Kecap.
Aromas of sour cherry and cranberry, spice and saddle leather, yeast and tobacco with a hint of marzipan. The palate is off-dry and juicy with tart red fruit, citrus and spice which follows through to the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 14th, 2010

The St. Hubertus Chasselas is a fantastic summer wine.
Expect pretty floral aromas with green apple and Bosc pear plus plenty of bright citrus and a hint of fresh herbs. The palate features the same fresh tree fruit and citrus flavours. It is off-dry and refreshing with suggestions of mineral and hazelnut lingering on the finish.
The Swiss have it right - pair this wine with a classic fondue.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 14th, 2010

I've always thought this was a very pretty wine, crisp and clean on the nose and on the palate. Aromas of honey, crisp orchard fruits, spring blossoms and honey, lemon balm and fresh mountain stream minerality. It has a nicely rounded, almost creamy/oily texture while flavours of honey, fresh herbs, crisp fruit, citrus and mineral echo its aromas.
A lovely departure from your everyday white!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 12th, 2010

Made from a mouthful of varieties starting with Riesling and followed by Kerner, Gewurztraminer, Shcoenberger, Muller Thurgau and Pinot Gris this aromatic melange entices you with a fruit-cup of stone fruit, pear and rich tropical fruit, lime leaf and sweet spice, a hint of herbs and exotic flowers. There is plenty of zesty citrus on the palate, it has a salininty in the mouth with bright tree fruit and lingering spice on the finish.
Great patio sipper or pair with washed rind cheeses or sushi.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 10th, 2010

Now this is a wine that screams summer!
Always one of my favourite aromatic BC blends, the Hatfield's Fuse features a funky new label, even more delightfully cartoonish than the last.
A melange of perfumed varieties combine to release a fruit-cup of aromas liberally spiced with vanilla syrup, honeysuckle and tangerine. The palate is creamy and vibrant, spicy and slick with sweet fruit and vanilla flavours.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 10th, 2010

A bright, juicy Chardonnay with abundant creamy pear, stone fruit and pineapple in vanilla syrup, talc and orange blossom aromas. The plate is vibrant - sweet and spicy with plenty of orange water and exotic spice anchored with stone fruit and lingering citrus flavours.
A fun, fragrant patio wine...
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 27th, 2010

Another great value from the Ganton & Larson project, this aromatic Pinot Blanc is oozing sweet pear and peach compote aromas, marmalade and citrus blossoms with just a pinch of ginger. Snappy and crisp, a sweet fruit forward palate and a zesty citrus finish.
Buy it by the case!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 13th, 2010

The Ress Rheingau provides exceptional value in a bright, vibrant German Riesling.
Expect peach and crisp green apple aromas, lemon drops and honey blossoms. The palate bursts forth with juicy orchard fruits, it is lemony and shows hints of slate/mineral flavours. A fresh, floral and bright sipper with a kiss of sweetness and flavours of citrus peel on the finish.
Pair with spicy foods or dishes with rich, creamy sauces.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 12th, 2010

This fresh, fruity wine is one of a trend of low-alcohol wines I am hearing about. It is made from 100% Friulano (formerly Tocai Friulano) and it does not dissapoint at 10% alcohol.
It is a simple, fresh Vin da Tavola (table wine) with pretty aromas of tree fruit, floral notes and bright sweet citrus. The palate is crisp and clean with bright fruitcup flavours and a pinch of sweetness.
Perfect as a lunch wine or as an aperitif.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 5th, 2009

From the Mistaken Identity's own certified organic, estate vineyard on Salt Spring Island, the Abbondante white is a blend of Madeline Angevine, Madeline Sylvaner, Ortega, Siegerrebe and Reichensteiner (an impressive line-up of hard-to-say [and spell] Germanic varieties)
Appealing aromas of apple and peach, tangerine peel and honeysuckle with hints of musk and spice. The palate is tart, mouth-watering with plenty of citrus, orchard fruits, spice and spring flowers, the finish is snappy with distinct apple-y flavours.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 25th, 2009