Margaret Swaine’s Wine Picks: Summer sippers

Domaine de la Tourlaudière Muscadet 2010
$13.95 (89 Points)
This is a standout example of the dry Loire Valley varietal that’s perfect with oysters and fish. There are bready, floral and mineral notes on the bouquet. Medium bodied, dry yet supple and smooth on the palate, this is both lively and delicate with good length. From an excellent year, it’s softly fruity, complex and elegant.

Astrolabe Province Sauvignon Blanc 2011
$21.95 (91 Points)
From New Zealand’s Marlborough region, this is a forward, expressive white with a passion fruit and tropical cocktail bouquet. Full bodied and plump on the palate, it’s full of juicy fruit with a zesty finish. This wine handles Thai, Indian and other flavourful cuisines well.

Lucien Albrecht Reserve Pinot Gris 2010
$15.95 (89 Points)
Albrecht is amongst the pioneers of viticulture in Alsace with a wine-growing history that can be traced back to 1425. Plump, peachy and ripe with a balancing acidity, this white has honeyed notes on the palate so it tastes just off dry. Medium-full bodied, round and supple in the mouth, it’s great with Berkshire pork chops or fish in a beurre blanc sauce.