Today we’re taking a stroll through floral-scented wines that herald the arrival of spring.
Our garden guide is Natalie MacLean who offers Canada’s most popular online wine and food pairing classes at www.nataliemaclean.com
Welcome, Natalie.
Is comparing wines to flowers really just a form of wine snobbery?
I’m shocked at what you’re implying! Just kidding 😉
Floral descriptions are more than poetic fancy or wine geek speak. It’s actually a reflection of the intricate chemistry of grapes and the artistry of winemaking.
Grapes, like flowers, are profoundly influenced by their terroir – the unique environment in which they grow. So I’ve brought in six different wines representing very different bouquets today.
Let’s start with your first wine.
My first “pick” of this floral bunch is the Piper Heidsieck Champagne. I’ve paired it with roses, which is a classic pairing for gift giving.
This sparkling wine from France is elegant, with fine bubbles and aromas of delicate rose petals, especially like this light pink roses.
Champagne Piper-Heidsieck
Piper-Heidsieck Rosé Sauvage Brut Rosé Champagne
Champagne A.O.C., France
What would you pair with this wine?
Well, I don’t suggest eating the roses 😉 Instead, try fresh spring greens like asparagus with melted butter or in a quiche with warm pastry. The Champagne’s finesse makes this a great match.
What do you have next for us?
I have the Giesen Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. This wine offers aromatic notes often including floral tones alongside grassy and citrus elements.
I’ve paired it with a bold and striking peony, with its vibrant colours and citrus aromas that match the assertive character of Sauvignon Blanc.
The added bonus for this wine is that it’s alcohol-free so you can’t get much lighter than that for spring. You can order it from psalcoholfree.com and they’ll deliver to your doorstep. Give it a try.
Giesen Wines, New Zealand
Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc
New Zealand
What would you pair with this wine?
I’d love to match this with sautéed diver scallops with fresh celery root and lime.
What’s your next white wine?
I have the Marynissen Riesling from Niagara paired with magnolias. This is a classic spring flower and the aromas in the Riesling are just as bright and fresh as the magnolia.
You’ll also find notes of white peach and lemon sunshine in this wine.
Magnolias have lovely, delicate blossoms that echo the expressive nature of Riesling.
Marynissen Estates Winery, Niagara
Marynissen Heritage Collection Riesling
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada
What would you suggest we pair with this wine?
This Riesling’s floral delicacy would be a great match for a freshwater white fish ceviche with mango, marinated in a chilli and cilantro vinaigrette.
You have one more white wine for us. What is it?
I have the Bella Terra Viognier from Niagara. This grape is known for its vivid aromatics, often reminiscent of blossoms and stone fruit. I’d pair it with lilacs for its sweet and slightly spicy aroma.
Bella Terra Vineyards, Niagara
Bella Terra Viognier
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada
What would we eat with this Viognier?
I’d love to have this with a pineapple grilled chicken with cashew nuts, ginger and spring onions.
We’re moving into reds now. What’s the first one?
I’m pairing the Sea Sun Pinot Noir, made by the Wayner family in California, know for the coveted Caymus wines. This wine is bursting with juicy layers of cherry and berry aromas.
Cherry blossoms, with their bright, fragrant nature, mirror the vivaciousness and elegance of this Pinot Noir.
Sea Sun Pinot Noir, California
Sea Sun Pinot Noir
California, United States
And your pairing would be?
The Sea Sun Pinot Noir with its pure expression of California sunshine would be lovely with pan-seared duck breast and white truffle risotto.
What is your final wine today?
I’m pairing the Westcott Vineyards Gamay with orchids. This Gamay has lovely raspberry and plum notes along with dark florals such as orchids, violets and irises.
It’s a smooth, medium-bodied wine with a juicy, mouth-watering character.
Westcott Vineyards, Niagara
Westcott Vineyards Gamay
Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada
And the pairing?
I’d match this with wild mushrooms and a spring lamb osso buco that falls apart in your mouth it’s so tender.
Thank you, Natalie!
You can find me at NatalieMacLean.com or @NatalieMacLeanWine on Instagram. I’ve listed all of the wines and pairings that we talked about today.
You can get my free Ultimate Food and Wine Pairing guide here: nataliemaclean.com/guide
