Cellar Selection Alert - Sooner or Later
It is estimated that 90% of wines are consumed within 48 hours of purchase. Not an earth-shattering statistic, but looking at the concentration of weekend traffic at your favourite LCBO location seems to bear this out. However, additional enjoyment lies in store for those who can lay down their wines for the short, or long, term. Fuller bodied reds, with their tannins, need time to develop and mature in the bottle. The reward will be greater complexity in the bouquet, flavour and finish. White wines age well too. Riesling is one of those varieties that has tremendous aging potential. A combination of flavours and a back bone provided by well-integrated acidity are the key. Released by LCBO Vintages this weekend, the 2022 Henry of Pelham Dry River Riesling is a textbook wine to lay down and see what develops over time. I will buy three bottles and consume the first bottle soon after purchase. The second bottle will be consumed after two years and the last bottle after four years. You will be rewarded for your patience and spirit of adventure. Guaranteed! A great solo sipper at only 9.8% alc./vol. for that first bottle. The off-dry style, makes a good pairing with omelettes, especially those with savory fillings such as cheese, mushrooms, or herbs, with the acidity balancing the rich ingredients..
2022 Henry of Pelham Dry River Riesling LCBO # 557165, $19.95.