What if Cirque du Soleil had a winery??

Don't laugh, it's not so far fetched.

You think these guys are just high on life? Heck no, that's just a little pre-show Chardonnay.

But I digress.

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to taste some wines from Clos du Soleil.

Probably a subsidiary or something.

2011 Capella $25

White Bordeaux blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.

Lots of pleasant pineapple notes on the nose. Passionfruit and just a hint of grapefruit on the palate. Long and very rich finish.

Rating: 83




2012 Fume Blanc $19.90

Hints of pineapple and spice on the nose, lots of citrus on the palate. Tiny amount of oak can be detected in the long finish.

Rating: 80






2011 Makepeace Merlot $24.90

Your nose might enjoy some chocolate and cherries, with just a touch of pepper. Smooth and balanced palate brings cherries and plum. Would improve, probably quite a bit, with a little time in the bottle.

Rating: 80





2011 Celestiale $25

A blend of the "big 5", this wine has sweet notes of cherries and strawberries on the nose, with a touch of vanilla. Plum and blackberries on the palate, with sharp tannins that suggest some aging would only enhance.

Rating: 80





2010 Signature $39.90

A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Blackberries and vanilla greet the nose, and continue on to the palate where they are joined by black plums. The winery suggests decanting if you are opening it now; I'll suggest what we should all be doing with good red wines: put them away. Patience, children.

Rating: 82