When you have two English Springer Spaniels a backyard spring cleanup is less about raking leaves and more about poop patrol.
That thought came to me last weekend when the recent break in the winter weather saw me out trying to make my grounds more people-friendly.
Of course a fine beverage is the best reward for a nasty job well done, and in my mind a white wine with lots of thirst-quenching, tropical fruit flavour and some major aromatics really evokes the spirit of the season.
While something made from riesling, viognier or torrontés would make a fine choice, Ironstone Vineyards’ 2009 Obsession ($14.95 – $16.99) from California breaks the mould of the somewhat familiar by using the symphony grape – a cross between muscat of alexandria and grenache gris – as its base.
If it swims, clucks or is served in a bowl with a cream sauce the clean acidity and ripe fruit components of this off-dry wine will make for a fine dinner partner. Salads, vegetables, shellfish and any dish that throws a bit of heat will also work like a charm with this unique palate cleanser.
Prices reflect the range across the country. Some products may not be available in all provinces.
Peter Rockwell is the everyman’s wine writer, working in the liquor industry for more than 25 years and travelling the globe looking for something to fill his glass and put into words.
