  Henry of Pelham Family Estate 2010 Pinot Grigio is a new release that contains a terrifically fruity and concentrated wine. This is a bold, boisterous model of Pinot Grigio that promises to be the life of the party. (Courtesy of LCBO) |
The greenery and humid air of August tends to be tempered by signs that the hot weather is winding down. Early risers throwing open the front door are no longer greeted by the morning sun, but instead are met by a conspicuous chill that foreshadows autumn's approach.
Summer's almost gone.
There's a sense of urgency now to make the most of the remaining blissful weekends before back to school and other workaday realities settle in.
Some readers are already thinking about Labour Day celebrations, writing in search of wine suggestions for family reunions and social gatherings that are sure to involve a smorgasbord of different dishes and a variety of palates to please.
My advice for such events is always the same. Fear not. At least, not about what you pour into people's glasses. Wine is never the main focus at such get-togethers, but instead acts as background noise to the animated chatter and laughter that is sure to fill the air. So opt for affordable, crowd-pleasing bottles that are flavourful and refreshing.
Here is a trio of new favourite bargain bottles that I think will work wonders at any social function. These are well-made, enjoyable wines that deliver where it counts, in the glass. There's certainly a time and place for more rarefied and expensive wines, but such occasions rarely call for the wine's complexity and nuanced character to compete with the scent of bug spray and sunscreen.
Wines of the Week:
Henry of Pelham Family Estate 2010 Pinot Grigio
Niagara Peninsula
$14.95
This new release from Henry of Pelham will hit liquor store shelves in Ontario shortly, and soon after in western provinces. The bottle features the family winery's striking new label, and contains a terrifically fruity and concentrated wine. This is a bold, boisterous model of Pinot Grigio that promises to be the life of the party. henryofpelham.com (LCBO)
Lindemans 2010 Bin 65 Chardonnay
South Eastern Australia
BC $11.99 | AB $12 | MB $11.99 | ON $10.95 (142177)
A perennial party wine, Lindemans Bin 65 Chardonnay is consistently made in an easy-going, enjoyable style that makes it ideal for entertaining. Its buttery and honeyed character is nicely balanced by a burst of citrus flavour. Flavourful enough to enjoy alone, this wine would work with most grilled chicken, pork or seafood entrees. (LCBO)
Viña Carmen 2009 Merlot Reserva
Rapel Valley, Chile
BC $11.99 (415588) | AB $13 | ON $10.95 (248625)
Carmen has long been a go-to source for wines that are appealing in flavour and in price. Case in point, this robust red is tailor-made for your next barbecue. The aroma and taste suggests a mix of red fruit and dried herbs, and the texture is pleasing soft and smooth. It's a perfect match for grilled meat. (LCBO)
