Rondeau Reds

Rondeau Red Vs. Rondeau Red

As promised last week I am continuing my series comparing wines of different vintages. Last week I compared 2002 and 2004 Cabernet Merlots from Pelee Island. This week I opened up two Rondeau Reds from Smith & Wilson the 2005 and 2006. This is classic case of a good year followed by one that was not as strong. 2005 was an excellent year with a long hot summer while the 2006 was cooler and it shows in the wines. Both wines are fruit forward but the 2005 has very pronounced tannins with cedar and plum and dark cherry flavors. The wine has a lot of structure and is still coming into its own. The 2006 however is has slight vegetal characteristics with muted strawberries (vegetal and green pepper flavors indicate that the grapes were not quite ripe wheen they were harvested). The fruit and tannins are in good balance right now signaling that even though it is a year younger, it is ready to drink before the 2005. My advice to you if you have some 2005 Rondeau Red in your cellar is to leave it there and pick up some 2006 to enjoy for the next year or so while the 2005 gets better and while we wait for the 2007 (which has the potential to be the best year ever for Ontario wines).

Speaking of the 2005 vintage. I had the chance to enjoy the 2005 Sprucewood Shores Pinot Noir the other day. It is a beautiful example of a pinot with loads of leather, cedar and cranberry flavors. It is a great value for about $15.95 per bottle. Sprucewood also has just released their 2005 Meritage. The 2004 Meritage was sold out last June (they had to limit people to 2 bottles per person during their Grand Opening Celebration) and I don’t think the 2005 will be around long either. I will review my notes and share them soon.