WHAT'S NEW?
by Debbie Minke

SPIRITS
Destined to become as famous as its namesake, Vincent Van Gogh Double Expresso Vodka delivers a wealth of smooth, sophisticated flavour for coffee lovers and non coffee lovers alike. It’s the only caffeinated, espresso-infused vodka on the market, ideal for serving in a mixed cocktail, straight up, or as a shooter. Visit www.vangoghvodka.com for hundreds of recipes. $46.99 Available in limited quantities.

Sour Puss Grape is the newest member of the sour schnapps brand. This versatile liquor is mixable and colourful, offering the classic grape taste with the signature “Sour Puss” pucker. $20.99

Kong Yiji is a Chinese Sake, is a golden-hued Chinese rice wine aged eight years. Kong Yiji continues the centuries old tradition of being a nutritious, some even say healing tonic noted for its distinctive, smooth flavour. Nut and blossom-like almond scents are clearly delivered, especially when warmed. Try pouring hot Kong Yiji Chinese sake into cold Chinese Yanjing beer and experience the Sake Bump, a delicious surprise. $15.39

WINE
Superb yet affordable wines from South America are blazing into the BC market. The Finca de Huanacache Syrah 2007 was nominated as one of the 10 best syrah in Argentina, and has been recently been incorporated into London’s prestigious Berry Boss & Rudd catalogue. With intense fruity and flowery aromas, this fruity red offers sweet tannins and great body. It’s a great value at $11.93. Look for the Finca de Huanacache Chardonnay 2007 for another elegant wine with complex aromas of banana, pineapple, apple, and tropical fruits. $11.93

Valle de la Puerta is a winery started by three Argentine compadres who share a passion for polo as well as fine wine - not a bad combination if you can manage it. Together, these three teammates have created one of the newest and most popular wineries in Argentina. Torrontes is Argentina’s flagship white grape used to produce fresh, aromatic white wines. La Puerta Torrontes 2006 has a flowery nose with a touch of citrus. It’s crisp on the palate with a refreshingly persistent finish. $11.34 This winery also offers their Chardonnay 2007, Merlot 2006, Malbec 2006, Shiraz 2007, and Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 for the great price of $11.34

Saint Laurent Winery, located in the Columbia Valley of Washington state, has produced a 2004 Merlot that’s worth trying. With 94% merlot and just a bit of syrah, this soft, rich wine has aromas of dark cherry, plum, and spice along with flavours of blueberries and melted chocolate. $29.99 The 2004 Lucky Red is a blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and syrah aged in nearly neutral oak. Its mild oak and very smooth tannins, and approachable flavours of red cherry, blueberries, and smoky spice deliver a flavourful wine for $26.99.

In 1863 an Englishman by the name of James Goodall Francis bought a parcel of land in Sunbury, Australia, and planted a vineyard. He called his winery “Goona Warra”, meaning “resting place of black swan” in the local indigenous dialect. The swan has landed in BC, offering a great lineup of wines for BC wine connoisseurs. Check out their 2003 Shiraz $36.85, 2004 Merlot Cabernet Franc $36.85, 2006 Semillon Sauvignon Blanc $29.49, or 2005 Chardonnay $33.49 amongst others.

For something fun and different, here are a couple of affordable adventures: The Zonin Prosecco Brut Sparkling Wine from Italy is made from the prosecco grape, which is grown in the Conegliano and Valdobbiadene wine-growing regions north of Venice. Its late ripening has led to its use in dry sparkling (spumante) and semi-sparkling (frizzante) wines, with their characteristic bitter aftertaste. Dry, with clean citrus notes and a persistent, long lasting mousse, this sparkling wine will only set you back $14.99. 2005 Finca la Florencia Chardonnay-Chenin Sparkling is another wallet-friendly wine from Argentina. It offers a fruity bouquet with great balance and body. $13.99

Purporting to be the world’s best-selling French wine brand, J.P. Chenet has arrived in BC. The Chardonnay offers lively, balanced acidity with hints of grapefruit and citrus, followed by a clean, refreshing finish. The Merlot has aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, and raspberry jam, while the Cabernet/Syrah is a round, pleasing wine that pairs well with hearty meat dishes and many types of cheese. All offer good value at $10.95.

Tin Roof Cellars offers handcrafted wines produced from California’s finest North and Central Coast grapes. Consumers seeking distinctive varietal wines with subtle oak flavours but complex character will want to check out their offerings. The crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc with citrus and melon flavours complements shellfish, chicken or vegetable entrées. $14.99 The Chardonnay is smooth and rich, with fresh, creamy, apple and citrus flavours balanced by crisp acidity. $14.99 The Cabernet Sauvignon is a rich, sophisticated red with lush cherry and dark berry flavours, smooth tannins, and a dash of toasty oak. $14.99 California’s take on a classic Aussie blend, the Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon marries syrah’s robust, dark berry fruit tones with cabernet sauvignon’s structure and elegance. $14.99