Wednesday evening tasting here in Edmonton..Big Bang for your buck!!

Should be an interesting tasting, I will be pouring!!!!

Reception - NV Pares Balta Cava Brut (Penedes, Spain) - $16.99

1) 2005 Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand) - $17.99

2) 2005 Maison des Bulliats Regnie Cru du Beaujolais (Beaujolais, France) - $18.99

3) 2004 Sportoletti Assissi Rosso (Umbria, Italy) - $19.99

4) 2003 Chateau Pey La Tour (Bordeaux, France) - $14.99

5) 2004 Henry's Drive Pillar Box Red Cabernet-Shiraz-Merlot (McLaren Vale, Australia) - $18.99

6) 2000 Villa la Selva 'Vigna del Papa' Vin Santo (Tuscany, Italy) - 500ml - $21.99

7) Warre's Warrior Vintage Character Ruby Port (Douro, Portugal) - $20.99

Great night, over 60 participants and 3/4 ladies!!! What can one say about the Villa Maria, terrific SB and flew out of the store after. The Beaujolais was interesting, had some nice grip and tried to be serious. Not too popular however. The Ch Pey la Tour was a good intro to entry level bordeaux and quite a few bottles sold, everyday drinking?
The Sportoletti was a surprise, served slightly chilled and blend of sangio and merlot. Cherry nose, smooth tannins, med bodied. I have some Pillar Box Red in the cellar, Chris Kirkland winemaker. Blend of shiraz, cab sauv, merlot...nice wine for everyday.

The Vino Santo was OK but a tad cloying. The half bottles sold for possible Xmas presents? The ladies loved this one! The Warres, entry level port and always consistent, could have had another glass!