Crisp apple, floral, grassy. A tinge of butter. Light, easy drinking white wine reminds me of a cross between Sauvignon Blanc and an unoaked Chardonnay. Quite nice. Tasted Jan/2012.

Some of you may recognize Aligoté as the white grape variety that plays second-fiddle to Chardonnay in France’s Burgundy region. This early ripening grape does well in cool climates and thus Canada’s Niagara peninsula is ideal for the production of a clean-lined Aligoté with vibrant acidity and refreshing lemon and pear flavours. The finish has a pronounced herbal spice element combined with a chalky dryness. Sip it solo or try it alongside a cream-based soup for lunch this weekend. Tasted Jan 2012.

In the glass this is a very light coloured wine with aromas of citrus, pear, apple and a bit of grass (oh Spring, now I know where you've gone). At 13% alcohol there's a little mouth coating feel, but that gets followed up very quickly with a zingy finish.