Event Report: Vintages Pre-Release Tasting—Winemaking Families & Riesling—Have your Say!

Reported by Christian Marcoux
Good day all, 

Yesterday was the First Vintage Pre-Release of the season at the Vendange Institute. The one and only Rod Story was the host of the tasting. Rod’s experience and connection to the world of wine was put to task by selecting interesting and lovely wines for the wine lovers in the room. 
One flight of four whites and two flight of four reds were served throughout the night, and Rod informed us that one special selection would be served at the end of the night. Now let’s get started!

The first flight provided a savant choice of interesting grape varieties. Two Rieslings - a Canadian and a German - were served to showcase the difference in taste and wine making. In addition, Rod surprised attendees with two types of grapes that are not typically sought out by the usual consumer. A Chenin Blanc from Château la Variere le Savetier Coteaux du Layon was served, as well as Les Vignes de Bila-Haut Côtes du Roussillon Blanc 2016, which is made from a blend of 60% Grenache Blanc, 20% Macabeu, and smaller amounts of Marsanne and Vermentino.

Both the second and third flights of wine were reds from around the world. From light to bold, and from chewy tannins to well balanced, Rod’s remarkable wine choices pleased our taste buds and were lovely discoveries that we don’t often have the opportunity to taste. 

Finally, Rod’s special selection was served by itself. It was a Massi Mazzano Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2013, a classic Italian purebred, well made and elegant like Massi can do. This Amarone concluded our enjoyable night. 

Many thanks to Rod for his tasteful wine selection. Looking forward to the next National Capital Sommelier Guild event.

Best Value: Feudo Maccari Saia Nero D’Avola 2015 – Well-made and balanced, the group loved this one for its dark red fruit and its drinkability. A great Italian

​Hidden Gem: Burrowing Owl Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 – Lovely Cabernet Sauvignon from British Columbia. Beautiful aromas and great body; success is not unknown to this Canadian wine. Great find.

Best of the Night: Masi Mazzano Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2013 – Amazing Italian ready to drink, chewy tannin, full body and wonderful finish. This beast will please any Italian style wine lover.