Page 35 - S/ Summer 2021

Don’t Worry Wines
Festejar’s recent debut on the Canadian market is a gesture of Toronto-based Don’t Worry Wines’ ambition
to showcase some of the biggest names in natural wine. From winemaker Patrick Bouju in Auvergne, France, this 2019 vintage is a pét-nat rosé made of 100 percent Gamay grapes. The name translates directly to “commemorating with a party,” and is well-earned by its sparkling touch and joyful presentation. Though the producers behind this bottle are highly regarded in the natural wine movement, Festejar asks not to be taken too seriously. Intriguing
and offbeat, it balances a gentle sweetness against notes
of juicy wild berry with a subtly acidic edge. Grown completely naturally and fermented with only indigenous yeast, this wine requires no filtering and is made without any additives or sulphites. Its definitive hazy, popsicle-
red appearance is a result of its natural production— indulgence-worthy at 10.5 percent alcohol by volume.
Mark Anthony Wines & Spirits
Sixteen months in a combination of American and
French oak give this rich red its complex edge. Penfolds’ 2018 Quantum Bin 98 Cabernet Sauvignon commands attention with its ripe, berried core. Having made a name for itself within the global wine community, Penfolds’
new Wine of the World blend of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Southern Australian Shiraz is no less noteworthy. Adhering neither to expectations nor to what’s de rigueur, its unique pairing of graphite and hazelnut is a convincing case for bringing together the Northern and Southern Hemispheres in a vivacious vintage. Among
the wide variety of luxury wines represented by Mark Anthony Wines & Spirits in Canada, this Cabernet Sauvignon is distinguished by its piquant punches—which are spectacular when paired with savoury dishes.
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Festejar 2019: photo courtesy of Don’t Worry Wines. Penfolds 2018 Quantum Cabernet Sauvignon: photo courtesy of Penfolds Wines.