We were invited to the home of the Austrian Trade Commissioner in Toronto. Myself, the Baroness and our youngest daughter made the trek from Niagara. It was a pleasure to drive up to the elegant home near Eglinton and Bathurst.  Robert's son Bernhard and his girlfriend were visiting from Vienna, and some of Robert's and Devy's good friends from Oakville, and a nephew were also there. They were all fine people - a pleasure to get to know.

  The barbequed butterfly swordfish, fresh Ontario lamb and chicken wings were accompanied by salad and Oriental-style egg noodles. Devy is by far one of the best cooks we've ever met. The flavours were so intense and tasty, I am actually at a loss for words to describe the feast.  So, let me do what I am better at... describing the main wine of the afternoon:

Johanneshof Reinisch Sauvignon Blanc 2007 (Thermen Region, Austria)

  Medium gold in colour, with a refreshing nose of peach and smell of fresh spring country air after rain. Flavours of ripe tree fruit with delicate, barely there gooseberry. Hints of spice gently complement the tremendous balance and amazing body of this truly fine wine.  Good body, long finish.

  Note, our host also brought out a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc to compare. Nice touch.  But it didn't even come close to the finesse, balance and complexity of the Austrian wine.