Alpine Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Marlborough, New Zealand

There are few things that scream spring like the first crop of Ontario asparagus (which sources say will be up and ready this weekend). After a rollercoaster of an April, asparagus is an edible reminder that winter is finally over. To celebrate, you'll need a wine that is fun and zippy - and has a little spring in its step. Alpine Valley Sauvignon Blanc, a recent addition to the LCBO's New Zealand section, fits the bill perfectly and looks, smells and tastes a lot like spring.

Tasting Note: This fragrant savvy delivers a mashup of tropical fruit, citrus, gooseberry and herbs on the nose. The aromas on the nose are repeated as flavours on the palate with the welcome addition of racy acidity and rich fruit - all in a perfectly balanced package. This zippy white has a long juicy finish, which will make you want another sip.

Enjoy With: Try with asparagus, chevre cheese, Pad-Thai or any dish that you would squeeze a lemon over.

Style: Aromatic, zippy, medium-bodied dry white wine.

Terroir / Region: Here is another example of how Kiwi winemakers have successfully matched Sauvignon Blanc with a unique growing region. The 'Alpine' part of the name refers to a Marlborough sub-region called Wairau ("why-row" with the "row" rhyming with "now") Alpine Valley. Cooler alpine conditions help to produce fruit that offers a pure, elegant expression of Sauvignon Blanc, which is very different from wines grown at lower altitudes and closer to the bay.

Producer: Alpine Valley is made by Tiki Wines, based in Marlborough, New Zealand. As of 2011, the company sources its entire fruit supply from certified organic or sustainable vineyards. All of Tiki's wines, including Alpine Valley, carry the New Zealand sustainable winegrowing logo on their labels.

Availability: Alpine Valley is new to the LCBO this year. You can find it in the New Zealand section (usually beside Australia) at most stores.

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$14.95

LCBO 241810 | 750 mL | 13.0% alc./vol.

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