Spring inspires many things, including summer vacation plans that, for many families, rhyme with a stay on the Atlantic coast, on both sides of the border, between Wildwood and Shediac.
To start getting you into the holiday-at-the-sea spirit while waiting for D-Day, here are five wines produced along the Atlantic Ocean, from the Iberian Peninsula to the Bay of Fundy.
Health !
Benjamin Bridge, Brut NV, Nova Scotia
Canada 11% | 4.6g/L | ★★★ | $$$ | $31.00
SAQ code: 13593239
Quebec oenologist Jean-Benoît Deslauriers signs a superb range of sparkling wines at this estate located on the shores of the Bay of Fundy, in Nova Scotia. The NV cuvée – for “non-vintage” – is the result of a blend of wines from several vintages, including a small proportion from 2002. The aromas of the Acadie and Seyval Blanc grape varieties mingle with those of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and form a harmonious wine, sold at an affordable price. The palate is elegant, barely revealing the dosage (4.6 g/l), and the material is carried by a fine foam. An originality from the Maritimes to savor as an aperitif, with a plate of melon and prosciutto.
Domaine Luneau-Papin, Muscadet-Sèvre and Maine 2020, Vera Cruz
France 13% | 2.1 g/L – Biodynamic | ★★★★ | $$1/2 | $29.80
SAQ code: 13318341
The Burgundy melon, a grape variety of the Muscadet appellation, does not easily reveal its fruity side. However, when the summer weather is generous and the vines are cared for by talented winegrowers like the Luneau-Papins, the melon can also surprise with its aromatic intensity. The Vera Cruz 2020 cuvée is reminiscent of certain Chablis wines, offering a happy marriage of lightness and volume, with flavors of fresh pear and butter, on a background of seashells and saline notes, reminding us that the ocean is not very far away. Of all the appellations known in France, Muscadet is undoubtedly the most marked by the Atlantic influence. A perfect match for crab and northern shrimp.
Château Fleur Haut-Gaussens, Bordeaux Superior 2016
France 13.5% | 2.4g/L | ★★★ | $1/2 | $18.90
SAQ code: 12574141
The wine from this family estate in Bordeaux offers a remarkable quality-price-pleasure ratio. A sober and elegant expression of the Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec grape varieties on the clay-limestone terroir of Vérac, northwest of Fronsac. The tannins are melted by time and the primary fruity flavors begin to give way to notes of undergrowth and tobacco. Really, a great buy under $20.
Paco & Lola, Rias Baixas 2021, Albariño
Spain 12.5% | 2.1g/L | ★★1/2 | $1/2 | $18.50
SAQ code: 12475353
Galicia almost looks like Ireland with its green hills and steep cliffs; no wonder it is nicknamed Green Spain. The vineyards of the Rías Baixas appellation are cradled by the cool winds of the Atlantic and produce fresh and crisp wines, made from the local Albariño grape variety. That of this cooperative cellar of Salnès seduces from the outset with its scents of nectarine. Round and quite ample in the mouth, with a thread of acidity and a delicate bitterness. A great pairing with a fish ceviche.
Quintas de Melgaço, Vinho Verde 2021, Arinto, Astronauta
Portugal 11% | 1.8g/L | ★★1/2 | $1/2 | $18.95
SAQ code: 13491161
The Arinto grape is grown in several wine regions of Portugal, including Vinho Verde, and is known for its ability to maintain healthy natural acidity, even when fully ripe. The oenologist Anibal José-Coutinho produces a good dry, lively and lemony white, whose texture is nourished by the work of the lees. As an aperitif or at the table, with a salad of beets with goat cheese and grapefruit, you will enjoy yourself.
Right ★
Good ★★
Very good ★★★
Great ★★★★
Exceptional ★★★★★
More stars than dollars: well worth the price
As many stars as dollars: worth its price
Fewer stars than dollars: wine is expensive