Union Wines Tasting

Yesterday, I opened a few samples from Union Wines that arrived on my door step earlier in the week. Union Wines is a joint partnership between winemaking legend Dr. Allan Jackson and sommelier, Andrew von Teichman that began in September of 2010.

Dr. Jackson and Mr. von Teichman's vision and passion for Union is to union multiple grape varieties to create consistent, reliable, and award-winning wines. Being a virtual winery - no vineyards, no winery, no equipment - Union avoids overhead costs that can cripple wineries. Thus, Union is able to provide quality wines at reduced price points. As you will see from my wine reviews below, it is really no surprise that in less than 4 years, Union has become one of the top selling VQA wines at the LCBO.

Of the 4 wines we tasted yesterday, the favourite among my guests was the Union White - not surprising as they all prefer sweeter wines. My personal favourite was the Union Red. All four are readily available at the LCBO, two of which are currently on promotion until the end of the month. Enjoy!

Tasting Notes:
UNION GOLD 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#351049) (XD) - $14.95
Screw cap. Blend of mostly Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, and small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. Low-medium nose with apple/pear/orchard fruits, grass and hints of floral aromas. Medium-bodied with vibrant acids. Flavour profile is dry and consists of orchard fruits, citrus and spice. Oak influence is present, but not overshadowing. Finish is slightly tart and medium in length. This white wine paired well with chicken nachos in tortilla scoops topped with queso. Score: 85 pts

UNION WHITE 2012 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#197145) (D) - $13.95
Screw cap. Blend of Riesling, Chardonnay (un-oaked), Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc (and Viognier according to the label). Medium intensity aromas of floral and white berries, along with hints of peach. Medium-bodied and off-dry (slightly sweet) with notes of floral, lime, citrus and spice. Viognier and Gewürztraminer varietals make an appearance as it warms up in the glass. Good acids and a lasting finish. Easy drinking and ideal for spicy foods - it paired well with homemade Jerk Chicken Wings. Serve lightly chilled to allow the complex aromas to shine through. Score: 87 pts

UNION NOIR 2012 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#277632) (XD) - $15.95

Screw cap. Blend of Pinot Noir and Gamay Noir. Medium intensity aromas of sour cherry, cranberry, cedar oak, and hints of earth. It's lightweighted with good acids and pleasant, savoury aroma replays. Taut tannins. Interesting finish that is long and smooth, warm, and has a kiss of sweetness. Serve lightly chilled. Paired well with the nacho scoops. Score: 87 pts

If you're an Air Miles collector, until the end of March you can get Bonus 5 Air Miles with purchase of this red wine.

UNION RED 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#197152) (D) - $13.95
Screw cap. Blend of Merlot, Cabernet, Gamay Noir, and Pinot Noir grapes from the excellent 2010 vintage. Medium-high intensity aromas of ripe black fruits, blackberry, oak, and hints of elderberry. Dry, medium-full bodied with ripe tannins. Nice aroma replays plus dark currant currant, spice and hints of mocha. Balanced acids and long finish. Chill slightly. Yummy. Score: 88 pts

This is currently on sale until the end of March for $12.95. Highly recommended at this price!