David Lawrason’s Weekly Wine Pick: a great Ontario summer red for under $15
Sandbanks 2011 Baco Noir
$14.95 | Ontario | 87 points
Baco Noir, with its occasional wild, gamey flavour, is not everyone’s cup of tea. But it has remained an Ontario staple because it’s hardy enough for winter and makes big reds with deep colour. From vines grown on her small, picturesque Prince Edward County estate, winemaker Catherine Langlois has been working away to tame the beast, and this new vintage succeeds.
The taste: The colour is a deep ruby. The nose is rather pretty, with a lifted aroma of mulberry, cooked beets and floral notes, reminiscent of a malbec. It’s medium-weight with tart, sour red plum flavours, and a hint of cinnamon. Acidity is a bit high, but there is a refreshing juiciness, and the tannin is very soft.
How to drink it: The freshness and low tannin make this a great summer red for barbecue ribs and chicken or cold summer salads, charcuterie and cheeses. Chill lightly.
