Has it been 30 days since you last took a drop? You have turned to 0.5% beer, a case of 6 of which costs the same price as the “real” 5% version. To mocktails at $18 (+ taxes and services) that taste a little funny. You were strong enough to resist happy hours and master Saturday evenings with Perrier Chic. In short, nothing at all? In this case, as my uncles like to say on the mornings of a Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend: it deserves a little reward!
Here are three beautiful bottles to water your palate, awaken your taste buds, cleanse your nose and stimulate your olfactory bulb.
Drink less. Drink better.
The Fool of the Angel, ALZ
France | 12,5 % | ★★★| $$ | 22,50 $
Code SAQ 14801280
The perfect little white for an aperitif. This cuvée from Loire winemaker Quentin Bourse offers an original blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc. Made in a natural philosophy with very few sulphites, it offers a fresh and bright aromatic profile. The nose evokes apricot, lemon, ripe apple with a little dill. On the palate, it is delicate, lively, dry, supple and easy to drink. Serve well chilled (8–10°C).
★★★ $$
Marqués de Murrieta, Reserva Rioja 2019, Rioja DOC
Spain | 14% | ★★★ | $$$ | $41.50
Code SAQ 10823166
If you are a fan of generous reds with just enough tannin, you will enjoy this classic and elegant Rioja. Blend dominated by tempranillo supplemented with grenache, mazuelo and graciano. Aromas of blackberry, plum, coconut, sandalwood and sweet spices. Full-bodied, enveloping, structured on the palate, with ample texture and a lingering finish. Very attractive and perfect to accompany braised meats or winter stews. The SAQ indicates 2021 on its site, but the agency sent me 2019. Serve at 15–17°C.
Mr. Chapoutier, Les Meysonniers 2023, Crozes‐Hermitage
France | Bio | 12,5 % | ★★★ | $$ 1⁄2 | 32,00 $
Code SAQ 10259876
Maison Chapoutier offers entry-level wines that always stand out. This is the case of this pretty Crozes-Hermitage 100% Syrah which explodes on the nose as well as on the palate. Aromas of raspberry, blackberry, black olive, violet and spices. Medium-bodied, juicy, fruity on the palate, with discreet wood and clear freshness. Light in alcohol and infectiously drinkable, it has enough body to accompany a rare flank steak or grilled lamb. Serve slightly chilled (16–18°C).
★ Correct
★★ Bon
★★★ Very good
★★★★ Excellent
★★★★★ Exceptional
More stars than dollars: well worth the price.
As many stars as dollars: worth the price.
Fewer stars than dollars: wine is expensive
