Dipping your nose into a Spiegelau to reveal and take hold of the subtle aromas of a wine and then, immediately, translating and expressing the sensations they bring is not a science…it’s an art. One of those artists has passed on.

Michel Beauchamp, a leading light at the SAQ, knew how to experience and verbalize the many impressions one can find in a glass of wine. His motto, “That’s the reason why I drink wine,” will remain with us. Here’s to you, my friend!

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Turner Pageot Lucette 2020

The phrase “Vin de France” (VDF) simply designates a wine without giving any specific geographic indications. Some winemakers, such as the duo Turner Pageot, take advantage of this distinctive feature to obviate the rigid rules around the appellations contrôlées.

The Lucette, which is a mixture of picpoul, terret and muscat, is a pleasant example. Cajoled by flavours of persimmon and apricot, it’s the kind of bottle you knock back without really paying attention.

Great at the cocktail hour, with warm goat cheese tartlets.

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Loberger Pinot gris Weingarten 2020

As I pour the first drops of the Loberger pinot gris into my glass, I am surprised to see pretty rosy tints mix with the golden yellow colour of this Alsatian white. Equally amazing to the nose, the scents of candied lemon, honey, fig and grilled nuts charm and are reminiscent of amontillado (sherry). To these spicy and floral notes add a mouth that’s both full and fresh at the same time.

Let this 2020 vintage age for a few more years or just enjoy it now with honey-ginger-grilled chicken.

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Artis Merlot Vin de France

Here’s a suggestion for the brave souls who are living the “28 alcoholfree days”. The Artis Merlot is dealcoholized using the “Spinning Cone Column” method, which is known for retaining the organoleptic (sensory) characteristics of the wine.

It is very flavourful, with nice tannins.

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