Great balance of superb aromatics, weight and acidity.
The newest release from Black Hills is this fragrant Viognier - front loaded with orangeblossom, stone fruit and exotic spice notes followed by undertones of fresh baked cookies, sandalwood, lemondrops and mineral. The palate is slick, peppery and spiced with brulee and citrus flavours, the finish is long and fresh.
Well done!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 8th, 2010

Only 180 cases of this delicious Pinot Noir were made, so check your local private wine stores quickly.
Abundant aromas - black raspberry and cherry, dry earth and spices, savoury herbal notes, coffee liqueur and a hint of beet greens. Nice complexity and structure on the palate with plenty of berry, cocoa and espresso flavours.The finish is powerful but the tannins are supple and it lingers with roasted spice and char flavours.
©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

When I think about wines with charm, this one certainly springs to mind.
Expect aromas of pristine fruit - pineapple, white peach and pears, spring blossoms and a whiff of honey. It has just a faint prickle or vivace on the tongue and nice layers of sweet fruit, toasted spice and citrus peel. Creamy in the mouth with lovely weight and a long, smooth finish.
Very good!
©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 very affordable Chardonnay is toasty - roasted spices, browned butter and grilled pineapple with hints of nuts and fresh lemonbalm. The palate is fresh and juicy, flavours of pineapple and citrus are bound in a rounded, slightly creamy palate - the finish is bright and zesty.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 23rd, 2010

For those who prefer their Rieslings tart and zesty, this bracing version is a glass-full of mineral, lime oil, marmalade and petrol aromas. It has a lovely weighted palate with check-sucking acidity and taut flavours of lime. Very good value and it will make a nice pairing with ceviche or poached fish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 20th, 2010

It seems to me that all of the Gehringer Rieslings are great value, but this Private Reserve at only $15 is not only my favorite of the trio but is an excellent value.
The aromas in this one are quite taut - mineral, vibrant citrus and green apple with a hint of apricot. The palate is an echo of tart fruit - snappy green apple and citrus peel with honey. It is a very dry style with bracing acidity and a long crisp finish that will pair well with light fish dishes.
©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

This is a delightfully delicious and robust organic Pinot Gris that offers aromas of crisp apple and pear slices, melon and honeysuckle with a citrusy core. It is not bone-dry, but the sweetness is balanced with lively acidity. Flavours of ripe, fleshy fruit and hints of spice are impressive and the finish is lengthy. It also has very nice concentration (which is apparent and compliments of low yields) and weight in the mouth.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 19th, 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

Winemaker Charlie Wagner makes his Silver Chardonnay in it's purest form - with no oak contact. It is 100% Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay that he makes in concrete vats. And, in what I think is a brilliant move, Charlie is releasing the 2008 vintage in gorgeous, gray ceramic bottles that represent those very concrete vats where the wine is made.
It is surprisingly golden in colour with rich, caramel and leesy notes woven with honeysuckle, mineral citrus, melon and pineapple. The palate is rounded and creamy with tropical fruit and melon but layered with crisp citrus flavours and followed by a long bright, lightly spiced finish.
Should be arriving in September 2010
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 12th, 2010

Always a consistently pleasing Chardonnay, this new vintage comes from the Limari Valley, one of the farthest winegrowing regions in the north of Chile and has higher acidity than previous vintages.
The aromas are ripe and rich - lemon cream and golden pineapple, browned butter and sweet, nutty praline. The palate is spicy and citrusy - think exotic spices like clove and zesty lime - although the palate is lively the texture is creamy and the finish is clean.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 29th, 2010

Despite the cooling winds of Monterey, the Hess Chardonnay is still a very ripe and buttery style. Obvious butterscotch and warm spice, pineapple and vanilla with orange cream and exotic citric notes. The caramel continues on the palate with a mix of sweet spice (loads of star anise and clove), vanilla, tropical fruit and citrus flavours with toasted oak on the finish. Lively acidity keeps it bright.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 28th, 2010

This is an elegant Sonoma Chardonnay with lovely aromas of sweet Bosc pears and Gala apples, vanilla and toasted oak with light spice and mineral notes. The palate is layered with creamy tree fruit, mineral and toast bound with bright acidity. It is a complete and balanced white with a long, spiced finish.
Fantastic.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 28th, 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

Painted Rock has done a fantastic job on their fresh new vintage of Chardonnay.
The aromas are vibrant and rush out of the glass to greet you - juicy citrus, golden pineapple and melon aromas, oak spice and just a hint of fresh herbs. The palate is also energetic - lively acidity hilights melon and tree fruit flavours, citrus peel and light spice, the finish is crisp, zesty and lengthy. Chic, with impressive but restrained power and a deft use of oak to accent.
©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

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

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

From Grateful Palate Imports in California (made by R Wines in Australia) this brilliant yellow Chardy has prominent toast and browned butter aromas, lemon and pine, sweet spice and caramel hints. Despite the toastiness on the nose, the palate is smooth and the oak quite balanced with ripe tropical fruit, salt water taffy, roasted nuts and sweet spice flavours.
Pure Evil, perhaps not. Purely fun maybe.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 14th, 2010

A proprietary blend of white grape varieties, the Conundrum set the stage for these (now more common) eclectic white blends that are not only aromatic but delicious!
I love the acidity in the 2008 vintage too...Aromas of honey, stone and tropical fruits, white raisin and warm spices. The palate is lush and creamy with plenty of ripe fruit, honey and citrus peel flavours. A slick wine with lively acidity and a long spicy finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 6th, 2010

This Ecocert certified organic wine trods the fine line of creamy and fresh very well.
Crisp apple and pear aromas layered with sweet praline, mineral, honeycomb and citrus notes. The palate is creamy and smooth offering pear compote and warm spice, vanilla and bright citrus flavours. The finish is mouth-watering and spicy...
Very tasty!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

This British Columbia Chardonnay presents very appealing aromas of apple crumble, melon and ripe pear with praline, warm toasty spice and a hint of white pepper. There is plenty of citrus on the palate alongside melon and exotic spice flavours. It is smooth and creamy with lively citrus on the entry but the mid-palate softens before ramping back up into a long vanilla, caramel and spiced finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

A ripe, aromatic wine, this new Mission Hill Viognier offers bright citrus and honeysuckle notes, stone fruit and spice with tropical notes, vanilla and a musky undertone. The palate is spicy too - unctuous and ripe with rich fruit and lime flavours, white pepper and vanilla. Powerfully potent but fresh and zesty too...
©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 wonderful version of this grape variety that you'll see on more labels in BC than almost anywhere, save France, Germany and parts of Eastern Europe. You'll be tempted to chill this wine a little too much in the summer months but try to refrain from keeping it on ice and you'll be rewarded.
It is both pristine and quite intense at the same time - orchard fruit aromas of apricot, pear and apple with orangeblossoms and vanilla and a mineral core. The palate is snappy and crisp with nice concentration - layers of creamy fruits, citrus peel and mineral flavours are followed by a long, clean finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

This very dry, south of France-style rose is coppery in colour with aromas of wild berries and herbs, forest floor, mineral and cigarbox with a hint of white pepper and some rubbery notes. It is juicy and very crisp with nice structure and lovely acidity. You can pick up hints of its Pinot character and it has a long tobacco-y finish.
Pair with aged goat cheese, fish or hearty summer salads.
All estate grown fruit, 200 cases made.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

This Selection Delas shows the unique earthy/mineral character I love in Rhone Viogniers - peach compote and wildflower honey aromas with a core of mineral and mushroomy notes. The texture is quite slippery and rich, it has layers of wild honey and stone fruits, warm spice and almond flavours. Bright acidity balances the weight and snappy citrus flavours linger across the finish.
Nice compexity and depth - a wine to pair with rich fish or creamy mushroom dishes.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

A fantastic BC Pinot Gris that presents aromas of pears and apples, orchard blossoms and honey with a whiff of vanilla and a core of mushroom/forest floor. The palate is creamy and flavoured with liberal fruits - apple, melon and pear with fine spice and honey tones and pomelo peel flavours on the finish. It has very nice acidity and a long silky finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 2nd, 2010

Positively potent!
Not for the faint of palate this Rhone-style white blend offers up fragrant stone fruit and exotic citrus aromas, orange blossoms and sweet spice with vanilla and just a hint of white pepper. Lush and quite concentrated with flavours that echo its aromas - plenty of spice, lime, honey and orange peel with stone fruit flavours. Nicely weighted on the tongue with mouth-watering acidity.
The alcohol is high (14.5%) as Viognier tend to be so make sure to share your bottle (although you won't want to).
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 30th, 2010

About 1/4 of this Chardonnay spent 2 months in new French oak barrels and was lees stirred to lend its creamy texture.
Aromas of butterscotch and ripe pear, apple peel and sweet spice with bright citrus notes. It has a nice weight and has a slightly creamy edge to soften the lively acidity. Flavours of butterscotch, spice and vanilla echo the aromas.
Nicely balanced.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 30th, 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

A terrific blend of Sauvignon Blanc with 25% Semillon, the Alibi launches into tropical fruit and citric notes - melon and tangerine peel, vanilla and grass clippings with a mineral core. On the palate it doesn't fall short either, presenting a creamy texture and mouth-watering acidity that boosts flavours of tropical fruit, herbs and citrus. The finish is crisp and lingers with flavours of vanilla and peach.
Delicious!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 17th, 2010

This is a truly delicious Pinot Noir from New Zealand's South Island. It offers alluring aromas of black raspberry and crushed violets, star anise and vanilla with a core of coffee and cigarbox. The palate is brimming with sweet silky berries and warm spice, coffee and cocoa. Very nice structure and concentration, the tannins are fine but firm and the finish long.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 15th, 2010

Aurelio Montes continues to make one of the most balanced and delicious versions of Chardonnay in Chile.
On the nose it releases sweet golden pineapple swimming in warm spice aromas with praline and exotic citrus. The palate is laden with juicy tropical and citrus fruit rounded out with fine oak spice and nutty flavours. It is a long, bright and creamy wine with extremely well balanced oak.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 15th, 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

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

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

A truly delicious Riesling, very light golden in colour with the fragrance of spring blossoms, apples and pomelo citrus with hints of apricots and talc. It is nicely weighted on the palate with plenty of zingy citrus flavours and cheek-sucking acidity. This wine will pair nicely with poached fish or light, creamy sauces.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 4th, 2010

This Reserve Pinot Gris has a lovely coppery hue and alluring aromas of pear compote, caramel and summer flowers, with a honeyed citrus note. It has a lovely weight in the mouth, a creamy texture and flavours of deep dish apple pie and ripe pear. There is lovely acidity to balance the creaminess and a long, smooth finish sprinkled with warm spice.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 2nd, 2010

This unoaked Chardonnay is subtitled the Townsend Jack to pay homage to the White Tailed Jack Rabbit (aka Townsend Jack) now extinct from its natural habitat, the Osoyoos dessert.
It is simply fresh and fruity - peachy, grapefruit and starfruit aromas, the palate is off-dry with a pleasing rounded weight and juicy flavours of citrus, tree fruits and a hint of banana.
A simple, fresh quaffer with nicely balanced acidity.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 20th, 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

Another fantastic Chardonnay from Mission Hill, the 2007 "Select Lot Collection" oozes ripe pear and melon aromas, exotic citrus and praline with warm pie crust, baking spice and vanilla. The mouth-feel is rich and creamy showing layers of tropical fruit, warm spice and citrus. Great bones - nice complexity and a long smooth finish rounds out this delicious Chardy.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 13th, 2010

NEW!
Just arrived on wine store shelves, this pristine, fresh Chardonnay releases plenty of bright tree fruit, mineral and citrus aromas with a hint of sweet peas. The palate is crisp - similar citrus, apple and mineral flavours appear on the palate with just a hint of nutty praline. The texture is slighlty creamy with lively acidity.
Very good!
Pair with soft cheeses, seafood and salads.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 12th, 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

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

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

From Quails' Gate's premium lineup, this bold Chardonnay was fully barrel fermented for one year in first second and third use barrels. And it shows with rich caramel and spice, buttery apples and melon aromas. The palate is a rich and creamy mouthful of sweet but spicy oak flavours, pralines and clove with citrus peel flavours lingering on the finish.
Pair with a rich, nutty risotto, smoked cheeses or creamy chicken and corn casserole.
©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

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 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

This ripe, decadent Chardonnay layers aromas of pineapple and exotic citrus, buttered toast and roasted nuts, minerals and spice. It is bright on the palate, the texture is rounded and creamy and you can expect plenty of juicy citric flavours, warm honey and pineapple with a spicy, toffee finish. Nicely balanced and very satisfying.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 19th, 2010

This traditional white Sicilian variety is made from organically grown Cataratto grapes. It has a golden colour with aromas of honey, pineapple and melon notes, lemon peel and toffee with hints of toasted oak. It is lush on the palate with plenty of toasted spice, ripe tropical fruit and lemony flavours. The finish is long and warm hilighted by sweet fruit and citrus peel.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 18th, 2010

A fantastic aromatic expression of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, this single vineyard Rarangi releases striking notes of cut green apple, grass clippings, gooseberry and passion fruit, elderflowers and nettle with zest of white grapefruit. The palate is juicy tart with citrus flavours and is nicely grounded with earthy/mineral hints. Snappy and mouth-watering with a long, herbal and mineral finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 15th, 2010

Always a reliable Chardonnay that combines seductive aromas with a bright lively palate!
Perfumed with citrus blossoms and peach, pineapple, tangerine, roasted nuts and sweet spice with a toasty core. The palate is juicy yet creamy with plush fruit - pineapple and citrus hilighted with anise and clove spice.
Nicely balanced oak, great acidity.
©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

This newly arrived Chardonnay may take you by surprise. It has a verdant, crisp character possibly due in part to the high elevation of its New South Wales vineyard.
Aromas of grass clippings, citrus blossoms, minerals and lemon balm with melon and a core of oak spice. The palate is vibrant but still rounded, creamy yet zesty - melon and citrus peel flavours with fresh herbal nuances followed by spice lingering on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 16th, 2010

This organic BC Pinot Gris is crisp and fresh - aromas of tart green apples, spring blossoms, tropical citrus and creamy pear compote. The palate is dry, crisp and zesty - tart citrus and mineral flavours dominate. A simple, refreshing Pinot Gris that will pair nicely with fish or creamy pasta, chicken or mushroom dishes.
©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

Signorello Vineyards estate blend white combines Semillon with 40% Sauvignon Blanc.
It is a succulent, aromatic medley of pineapple and melon, wildflower honey and lanoline, clover and minerals with lemon oil and menthol notes. The palate is potent - voluptuous and weighty with flavours of quince, honeycomb, melon and warm spice. The texture is slick, it has a long toasty finish trailing flavours of spice and citrus peel in its wake.
Impressive!!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 10th, 2010

Made from Pinot Blanc with 'just a dash' of Pinot Gris the Van Westen Vivacious is a delightfully smart and snappy wine. Aromas of orange blossoms and tree fruits, honey and citrus peel abound. The palate is crisp and zesty with lime, tangerine peel more ripe and tree fruit. The palate is weighty and smooth and quite voluptuous, the finish clings to your palate with zesty citrus flavours.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 18th, 2010

A consistently good value and satisfying partner to creamy mushroom risotto or chicken salad.
The Lurton Pinot Gris is a visually appealing, peachy hue, its aromas are reminiscent of wild flowers, creamy orchard fruits and citrus. The palate is simply refreshing with a rounded, weighted texture and flavours of pear, nectarine, citrus peel and minerals. The finish is clean and zesty.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 12th, 2010

Plush and decadent this Burrowing Owl Chardonnay presents grilled pineapple, warm spice and toast, caramel and a whiff of orange blossoms. There is plenty of bright, clean fruit and citrus layered with toasted spice on the palate, it is creamy and yet fresh with a long, powerful spicy, zesty finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 4th, 2010

A Chardonnay for those who like it toasty...
Citrus and apple crisp notes with dominant smoky oak and spice aromas. The palate snaps back with mouth-watering citrus, apple and pear flavours layered with more spice and toast from the entry through to the finish. Nice acidity and a long bright, spicy finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 22nd, 2010

A dream for new-world Chardonnay lovers, this version from the San Antonio Valley provides plenty of caramel aromas with roasted pears and apple pie and a toasty core of butternut praline. Rounded and creamy on the palate it has a buttery texture and warm toffee flavours, a hint of citrus to brighten it and a long finish carrying toasted spice and nuts.
There is plenty of oak on this Chardonnay but it is handled nicely.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 20th, 2010

The Dunham Froese Pinot Blanc is always a solid choice for a fragrant white with a dry, crisp palate.
The 2008 vintage features aromas of wild clover honey and white peaches, sunwarmed pears and pretty citrus blossom notes. the palate is snappy and clean with a creamy vanilla finish.
A refreshing wine perfect for fresh salads and soft cheeses.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 20th, 2010

Having been in business since the 1880s, Wente is undoubtably a big part of California's winemaking history.
Chardonnay lovers need no introduction to the Morning Fog, its fresh, juicy style and affordable price is appreciated.
It engages you with aromas of green apple and pineapple, sweet Meyer lemon and butterscotch with a nice dose of sweet spice. The palate is a delicate balance of creamy texture and vibrant acidity - the flavours echo the aromas - pineapple, butterscotch and warm spice with hints of roasted nuts and vanilla. A lengthy finish is bright and spicy.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 19th, 2010

Currently one of BC's newest wineries, Rustico Farm Cellars has also captured attention, as one of the most 'romantic' wineries in Canada. Located on the Golden Mile Bench near Oliver, the vines on the estate have been supplying other local producers with wine grapes for more than 45 years. The estate's heritage log building was built as a bunkhouse for miners in the early 1900s and is the focus of their labels and winery name Rustico.
The Farmer's Daughter Gewurztraminer is wonderfully aromatic - sweet lychee, Turkish Delight, exotic floral notes, allspice and tropical citrus. The palate is slightly more austere, it is dry, crisp and juicy with primary citric and mineral flavours. The finish is warm and zesty with a clean linger.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 18th, 2010

Limoux, the appellation within Languedoc is believe to be the birthplace of sparkling wine - not actually Champagne as most people think, Blanquette merely means white (or of white grapes). This newly released bubbly is certified 100% organic and won't break the bank.

The aromas are typically leesy/bread dough with citrus and garrigue (wild herbs) and a hint of toast. It is a lively bubbly with a bright, smooth mousse and suggests peach and gingery flavours. It's also a demi-sec which explains the kiss of sweetness on the palate.
Serve as an aperitif or with light seafood appetizers or soft cheese.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 10th, 2009

Expect a pretty copper tinge to this creamy Pinot Gris.
It has aromas of pink grapefruit, ripe peaches and pear compote with a core of caramel and praline. It is quite rounded and rich on the palate, there is noticeable oak contact creating the caramel and nutty components. The peach stone and pear aromas reappear on the palate with a hint of sweet spice lingering.
Pair with pasta in a creamy mushroom sauce or chicken salad.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 5th, 2009

This golden-hued Chardonnay with a core of toast and spice softened by creamy pear, melon, citrus and minerality. It has a fantastic weight on the palate with a creamy texture and flavours of citrus, toasted spices, pineapple and melon with hazelnut flavours lingering. The finish is snappy and fresh.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - October 25th, 2009

A juicy Pinot Noir with primary red fruit aromas - cranberry and sour cherry, fine pepper and cigarbox, a hint of violets and undertones of savoury herbs and green olive. The palate is fresh with good berry/cherry flavours, toasted spice and cedar. Nice complexity, lively acidity and a silky texture.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - October 20th, 2009

Loads of tart fruits like rhubarb and red cherry and cranberry, carrot tops, cedar and wild herbs with undertones of forest floor. The palate is bright, expect juicy red berries, white pepper and spicebox. The texture is soft and silky, it's light-medium bodied and is made for food!
Elegant and delicious.
Pair with turkey, cedar planked salmon or sauteed wild mushrooms.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - October 8th, 2009

Three new reserve tier wines were recently added to the Joie portfolio. One of those new wines , PTG stands for Passetoutgrain - a Burgundian blend of Pinot Noir and Gamay of Beaujolais. It's delicate with oodles of raspberry and cherry, violet, cedar, leather and white pepper aromas and fresh on the palate with savoury undertones to give it substance. Juicy and fine boned with soft tannins throughout and peppery spice on the finish.
Pair with warm choux pastry puffs filled with mushroom mousse.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 3rd, 2009

Bright apple, citrus and mineral aromas upfront supported by appealing caramel, sweet spice and toasted, nutty notes. Well-integrated oak on the palate with plenty of acidity and a creamy texture. Expect flavours of white fruit, spiced butter and caramel with loads of citrus peel flavours on the finish.
Well done!
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 10th, 2009