WOOD: Whittaker’s passion for wine helped N.S.
I was greatly saddened last week to see the obituary in The Chronicle Herald announcing the untimely death of Gary Whittaker.
Gary may not have been well known to many readers, perhaps because much of what he accomplished took place behind the scenes.
I first met him many years ago, when he was working at the first Port of Wines store, which, at that time, was in the newly refurbished Historic Properties building in downtown Halifax.
Gary was both knowledgeable and passionately interested in wine.
Subsequently, Gary moved to the Nova Scotia Liquor Corp. head office, where he was primarily responsible for wine purchasing and many other associated tasks. He played a pivotal role in ordering all vintage wines on behalf of the NSLC and brought his passion and knowledge fully to bear on the task.
On his watch, both the quality and range of wines brought into the province vastly improved. He did much of this singlehandedly, with great professionalism, commitment and hard work.
Gary’s quiet, unselfish contribution merits respect and appreciation. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family.
REVIEWS
The People’s Choice Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Awatere, Marlborough, New Zealand, 13.5 per cent, $18.99, NSLC: Sporting catchy packaging, especially the interesting back label, this is a classic Kiwi Sauvignon loaded with aromatic gooseberry, passion fruit, mineral and grassy freshness. Green fruit flavours are assertive and backed up by crisp acidity and firm mineral. A wake-up call for the palate!
Sannio Dei Feudi di San Gregorio 2007, Falanghina DOC, 13 per cent, $24.99, NSLC Port of Wines selection: Falanghina is an ancient white variety from the Campania hills in southern Italy. This one shows influence of bottle age with its deep, burnished gold colour and complex, developed bouquet. The grape is known for its concentrated intensity, and this example reveals an uncanny resemblance to Scottish orange marmalade with rich, bitter, orange peel flavours playing through on the palate, backed up by lively acidity and good length. Complex yellow tree fruit notes round out the finish. Calls for richly flavoured foods such as lobster in a cream and brandy sauce.
Paso Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Paso Robles, Calif., 13.5 per cent, $19.99, NSLC: Shows elegantly developed dark fruit, fine spice and a subtle trace of oak on the nose. Generously ripe blackberry and black currant flavours come in a well-structured, full bodied package. Black currant notes linger on the finish. A stylish, reasonably priced Cab that reveals the solid character of Paso Robles terroir.
Sean Wood is a wine judge and writer.