Left to right: Eileen Whittaker, Mike Aramanda, Jim Fox, Cherie Snowden, Luis Montano, Millie Aramanda and Pete Toppan
Brenda McKenzie and CT Robertson
As the days get longer and lighter, the search begins for wines that are also long on the taste and lighter on the palate. CT Robertson and Brenda McKenzie hosted the Wine Stewards to a Spring-Fling Wine Tasting to experience the wines that ease the transition into summer after the heaviness of winter. New Zealand, Australia and South Africa were the featured growing regions. As members munched on varied appetizers, five wines were presented for their sipping pleasure. Kim Crawford Pinot Noir from Marlborough, New Zealand was a crowd favorite. Dark cherries and strawberries dominate with vibrant fresh fruit flavors and a nuance of sweet smoky oak. It was definitely smooth. Starborough Sauvignon Blanc, also from Marlborough, New Zealand, offered classic aromas of citrus fruit accented by passion fruit, guava and kiwi. Crisp and juicy, it had a refreshing finish. The Marlborough region of New Zealand is a producer of some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc. Australia’s Stump Jump Grenache from McLaren Vale featured notes of rhubarb, blueberry, raspberry and white pepper. McLaren Vale is home to Australia’s oldest vineyard. Grapes were first planted in 1838. Yalumba Viognier, also from Australia, had apricot fruit aromas and flavors with long textures and hints of orange, definitely a welcome sip on a sweltering day. Yalumba is Australia’s oldest family-owned winery dating from 1849. Lastly, South Africa’s Spier Chenin Blanc was crisp and fruity with bursts of guava, pear and apple. It had a well-balanced palate and a strong finish. An interesting aside, Spier is South Africa’s oldest wine farm having been established in 1692. What can be more enjoyable than exploring history and geography through a wine glass!