Opus I

Opus I is an iconic, elegant, Bordeaux style, Napa Valley red wine first created back in 1979 as a collaborated effort between Mondavi of California and Rothschild of Bordeaux. Today, Mondavi is no longer involved and it is now equally owned by Constellation Brands and Rothschild. The ’09 is full of dark fruit, chocolate, spice and vanilla, Rich and supple! The opulent, polished ’07 is more Californian in style. Gobs of spicy, licoriced, cedary fruit and a firmer backbone highlight this baby. The ’05 leans more to the old world in style, sporting toasted, smoky oak, tobacco, herbs, dried fruits and leather. The wine is not inexpensive, but a true expression of old and new world viticulture and winemaking coming together. 

Greek Wine

If you’ve not tried Greek wine in a while, you’ll be amazed at how good it is. Much of today’s is being made by a whole new generation of talented winemakers who, utilizing modern equipment, are moulding ancient varieties into concentrated, elegant, well-structured offerings with great balancing acidity. Varieties of note are the white Assyrtiko, Roditis, Savatiano and the aromatic Malagousia and Moschofilero. Red varieties to try include Agioghitiko and Xinomavro. There are also many, blending traditional Greek grapes with better-known western, European varietals. To learn more about Greek wine go to www.allaboutgreekwine.com.

Lunch With Banfi

When the opportunity to lunch in Toronto with Cristina Mariani-May, the CO-CEO of renown, Tuscan producer Banfi, I couldn’t resist. Located in Montalcino, they create wonderful Brunello. We tasted numerous, phenomenal single vineyard wines (Sorrena, Podernuova, Poggio d’Orcia, Casanova) that really emphasized the different terroir. Their 2007 and 2001 regular bottlings of Brunello were, as always, delightful. The 2007 and rare 1998 Alle Mura showed amazingly well. The incredible 2007 Alle Mura Reserva shone like a star and the 2007 and 1995 Poggio All’Oro were brilliant. The ’95 was a particular treat. You simply can’t go wrong with Banfi. They epitomize great winemaking.