Natalie MacLean

In 2003, Natalie was named the World's Best Drink Writer at the World Food Media Awards in Australia. Held every two years, the competition received more than 1,000 entries. An international and independent panel of 47 food and wine experts selected her from a short-list of 14 nominees from the U.S., Canada, U.K., New Zealand and Australia. Natalie also won the 2003 James Beard Foundation Journalism Award for her writing about drinks and the Bert Greene Award for excellence in food journalism, presented by the International Association of Culinary Professionals.

Wine Reviews by Natalie Maclean

Niagara White Wines

913699 ANGELS GATE RIESLING SÜSSRESERVE 2003 $12.95 VQA Niagara Peninsula (D = dry) Vintages Catalogue (VC): Süssreserve is the technique of adding reserve grape juice for a touch of sweetness. This wine won a Silver Medal at the 2004 Ottawa Food and Wine Show. My note: A fantastic price for such a pretty sipper. The sweetness is barely noticeable and serves to soften the wine, giving it a ripe peach aroma. Score: 85/100.

957399 ANGELS GATE 'OLD VINES' CHARDONNAY 2003 $23.95 VQA Niagara Peninsula VC: Vibrant pale yellow colour leads to impressive nose of toasted coconut, green apple, fresh vanilla and hints of butter and pear. This full-bodied, creamy-textured wine is well-balanced by a fresh seam of acidity. Enjoy now with seafood, such as lobster or crab. Will also reward 2+ years in a cellar. My note: My favorite Ontario chardonnay by far. Mostly I think Ontario should stick to riesling for white wines. But Angel's Gate is simply masterful in coaxing the most concentrated and delicious aromas from old vines chardonnay. Worth trying to compare with chards from other regions. Score: 90/100.

Niagara Red Wines

591313 MALIVOIRE GAMAY 2003 $15.95 Estate Bottled, VQA Niagara Peninsula (D): A peppery, spicy medium-bodied red that would be perfect with barbecue food and a pepper steak. One of our best small producers in Niagara. Score: 89/100.