Sunday, December 19, 2010

Vintages Shop Online December 2, 2010 Release

December 9, 2010 ... At the Vintages tasting for the January 8 release (report coming soon), I had the opportunity to sample some of the ‘Vintages Shop Online’ wines, which were released to the public on December 2nd, 2010.  All except one was a Bordeaux wine.  Here are my favourite of 15 wines, no notes just star ratings:

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
Chateau Ferriere 2007 ($46.00 - #0567651) – France, Bordeaux, Red

Four Star Wines (****) …
Chateau Bouscaut Blanc 2007 ($55.00 - #0581025) – France, Bordeaux, White
E. Guigal La Doriane Condrieu 2008 ($89.00 - #0040527) – France, Rhone, White
Chateau L’Arrosee 2006 ($75.00 - #0564757) – France, Bordeaux, Red

Four-and-a-Half Star Wines (**** ½) …
Chateau Canon 2007 ($88.00 - #0099572) – France, Bordeaux, Red
Chateau Clos de Sarpe 2007 ($88.00 - #0099622) – France, Bordeaux, Red
Chateau Lagrange 2007 ($65.00 - #0580761) – France, Bordeuax, Red

Four-and-a-Half Star Plus Wines (**** ½+) …
Chateau Pontet-Canet 2006 ($109.00 - #0564815) – France, Bordeaux, Red
notes: awesome, well-balanced, stunning

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Thursday, December 2, 2010

Saturday December 11, 2010 - Vintages Release


I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average

The only release in December is all about “festive celebrating”, as we get into gift giving season the LCBO believes you’re going to pry your wallet open a little wider.  I am going to forego segregating the “holiday” wines and put them all in their country of origin.  Here we go …

Argentina – Red …
Kaiken 2008 Ultra Malbec ($19.95 - #0050849) – sweet black fruit, black cherry, plum and licorice notes, with a little vanilla on the finish. (****)
Los Clop 2006 Reserva Malbec ($15.95 - #0186650) – a good price for this sweet red licorice dominated wine. (*** ½)
Trapiche Fausto Orellana de Escobar Single Vineyard Malbec 2007 ($39.95 - #0178145) – rich colour which matches the flavour:  lots of big black fruit, coffee, mocha blackberry and a touch of mineral complexity. (**** ½) 

Argentina – White …
Alamos 2009 Torrontes ($13.95 - #0081539) – you’d swear this is a Gewurztraminer knock-off on the nose with all the floral/rosy notes coming off it, and the palate is no different … this one’s nice and light at a price worth picking up.  If you haven’t tried Torrontes yet this would be a good time.  (*** ½)

Australia – Dessert …
Dutschke Old Codger Tawny ($19.95 - #0199786) – this is a real beauty for those who like Tawnies with a twist: caramel coated roasted almonds with a cherry sweetness and spicy finish. (**** ½)

Canada – Dessert …
(Ontario)

Canada – Red …
(Ontario)
Stratus 2007 Cabernet Franc ($38.20 - #0665034)

Canada – Sparkling …
(British Columbia)
Sumac Ridge 2006 Steller’s Jay Brut Sparkling Wine ($24.95) – there’s a lovely lemony smell which turns into a fun fizz with a touch of sweet apple and lemon rind on the palate, the real winning part here is the peach finish. (****)
(Ontario)
Peller Estates Ice Cuvee Rosé ($35.20 - #0113035)

Canada – White …
(Ontario)
Thirty Bench 2009 Riesling ($18.70 - #0024133)

Chile – Red …
Casa Silva 2008 Los Lingues Gran Reserva Carmenere ($17.95 - #0059477) – big on mint, black fruit and raspberry liqueur. (****)
Santa Ema Amplus Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 ($19.95 - #0076307) – the nose smells juicy with sweet red fruit but does not lead to juiciness on the palate where it’s dry dark fruit, this interesting dichotomy ends with a nice black fruit finish. (****)

France – Red …
(Bordeaux)
Chateau Rigaud 2008 ($18.95 - #0198366) – lots of darkness in fruit and colour, graphite, blackberry, cassis, cinnamon, spice with coffee finish and plenty of tannin grip. (****)
(Burgundy)
Vincent Lacombe Pommard 2009 ($36.95 - #0185637) – cherry and plum kicks it off leading to dark fruit and tannins in the mouth; this Pinot has real stuffing with spices and herbs on the finish, leaves the tongue a little dusty. (****)
(Midi)
Hecht & Bannier Minervois 2007 ($18.95 - #0017764) – nice dark fruit: cassis, black cherry jam with just enough spice to make the mix very delish. (**** ½)
(Rhone)
Le Vieux Donjon 2008 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($52.95 - #0700922) – sweet smoke and red licorice on the nose, spice, licorice and blackberry on the palate. (****)

France – Sparkling …
(Burgundy)
Charles Duret Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($17.95 – 0185694) – great acidity with bread, biscuit and hazelnut; simple yet sexy. (****)
(Champagne)
Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Blue Top Brut Champagne ($49.95 - #0068288) – toasty and nutty with an alluring nose and nice palate, creamy smooth and delicious. (**** ½)

France – White …
(Alsace)
Anne Boecklin 2008 Reserve Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #0141226) – now here’s the real deal.  Pretty nose with an even better palate: touch of floral, a little bit of thrills gum soapiness with a dash of spice; delicate and delicious while being impressively priced. (**** ½)
(Burgundy)
Jean-Pierre Teissedre 2009 Pouilly Fuisse ($22.95 - #0183483) – delicate and fresh, fruity and flavourful, definitely one you’ll enjoy. (****)

Italy – Red …
(Tuscany)
Rocca Delle Macie Chianti Riserva 2006 ($15.00 - #0111641) – good value for this wine that’s a little rough around the edges, but the herbs, spice and dried fruit make it very delicious. (****½)
Tenuta Sette Ponti Oreno 2007 ($69.95 - #0735597) – a real beauty, big, luscious and delicious. (**** ½)
(Veneto)
Tenuta Sant’Antonio Selezione Antonio Castagnedi Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006 ($41.95 - #0685107) – this one is lovely, simply lovely. (****)
Italy – Sparkling Wine …
(Veneto)
Santa Margherita Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore ($17.95 - #0687582) – light and fruity, good fizz with lemon and apple notes; an easy sipper. (****)

New Zealand – Red …
Kim Crawford Small Parcel Rise and Shine Creek Pinot Noir 2007 ($29.95 - #0035337) – lots of dark fruit with hints of earth and smoked cranberry. (****)

New Zealand – White …
Wither Hills Wairau Valley 2009 Sauvignon Blanc ($18.95 - #0919514) – typical fruit driven number with lots of grass, gooseberry and grapefruit all with good acidity; very appealing. (****)

Spain – Red …
Acustic Celler Acustic 2008 ($18.95 - #0190728) – nice fruit, sweet blackberry, cassis, hints of red licorice; layers of fruit, spice and chocolate. (**** ½)
Juan Gil 2009 White Label de Cepas Viejas Monastrell ($14.95 - #0013656) – cherries and spice and everything nice, that’s what this Juan Gil is made of; good value too. (**** ½)
Solar de Libano 2006 Crianza ($14.95 - #0190579) – red raspberry and licorice with good wood notes, touch of dried cran-cherry, lots of life in this bottle. (****)
Vina Vilano Crianza 2006 ($14.95 - #0190777) – sweet fruit of both red and black, pepper, spice, a little woody with some mineral notes on the finish. (****)

Spain – Sparkling …
Segura Viudas Brut Reserve Heredad Cava ($29.95 - #0558825) – slightly sweet sparkle with mac apple, this is a good fizz for easy quaffing and a fair bit of partying. (****)

United States – Red …
(California)
Cliff Lede 2006 Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon ($126.95 - #0014209) – the smell is supple, silky and sexy, so is the taste; pricey but tasty. (****)
Ridge 2008 Geyserville ($43.95 - #0723072) – inky colour, flavours are smoky, chocolate, mocha mixed in with some black raspberry. (****)
(Oregon)
Domaine Serene Yamhill Cuvee Pinot Noir 2007 ($46.95 - #0186858) – it’s a cross between the earthiness of France and the fruitiness of California, a nice bridge showing what has made Oregon famous. (****)

United States – Sparkling …
(California)
Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut Sparkling Wine ($23.95 - #0192898) – Gloria makes some nice bubbles with light aromatics that are fizzy and friendly, this is no different. (****)

United States – White …
Fog Crest 2006 Chardonnay ($47.95 - #0211292) – holy cow, what a lovely nose of baked caramel apple pie, the palate is succulent with almond/hazelnut toffee and I liked the apparent sweetness though it finished dry; and that finish was cheek-sucklingly good. (****½)
Gainey Vineyard 2008 Chardonnay ($24.95 - #0205484) – nice vanilla and fruit with a touch of caramel, nut and it all culminates on a beautiful finish that makes it very appealing. (****) 
McManis Family Vineyards 2009 Viognier ($19.95 - #0658112) – big exotic fruit nose and the palate follows; decent amount of acidity on the finish, all finished with the flavour of pineapple core which seems to hang around forever. (**** ½)

Grape Guy Holiday Top 5 … I’ll be lining up for on December 11, 2010:
Dutschke Old Codger Tawny ($19.95 - #0199786) – Australia
McManis Family Vineyards 2009 Viognier ($19.95 - #0658112) – USA
Hecht & Bannier Minervois 2007 ($18.95 - #0017764) – France
Rocca Delle Macie Chianti Riserva 2006 ($15.00 - #0111641) - Italy
Acustic Celler Acustic 2008 ($18.95 - #0190728) - Spain

Happy Shopping.


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Monday, November 8, 2010

Saturday November 13, 2010 - Vintages Release


I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average

Today’s release is about ‘Star Quality’ and there’s also a focus on Tuscan wine … I suspect you’ll buy the “stars”, with names like Chateau Montelena, Cakebread, Montes, and Torbreck, these wines are sure to fly off the shelf without my help – so I will look at the Other Wines in this release, and we’ll begin in Tuscany:

Tuscan Wines …
Castelgiocondo 2005 Brunello di Montalcino ($49.95 - #0650432) – very nice and worth the $50 price tag; smooth fruit, pencil lead, a little woody and some dried fruit. (****)
Ornellaia 2008 Le Volte ($28.95) – up in price from last year’s release but still a decent value with very good tannins, black fruit and well spiced. (****)

Argentina – Red …
Joffre e Hijas Grand Malbec ($15.95 - #0183889) – nicest Malbec in this release, good price for this chocolate blackberry number. (****)

Australia – Red …
Thorn-Clarke 2008 Shotfire Shiraz ($23.95 - #0018796) – I’ve been a fan of this wine for years and after tasting this version, that hasn’t changed. (****)
Wallace by Ben Glaetzer 2008 Shiraz / Grenache ($25.95 - #0047605) – this is both a fruit bomb and, as one buddy used to call wines over 15%, “panty remover”.  This one is lovely, supple and dark on fruit chocolate and cherry with a hint of eucalyptus, and don’t forget the 15.7%; lots of yum. (****½) 

Canada – Red …
(Ontario)

Canada – White …
(British Columbia)
Mission Hill 2006 SLC Chardonnay ($24.95 - #0144170) – look at the Meursault review (France), add fruit and take away the hefty barrel notes, this wine is half the price with more up front fruit. (****)
(Ontario)

Chile – Red …
Santa Rita 2007 Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0275594) – there’s a big whack o’mint all the way through this wine; great value for these nice flavours, big wine, smooth with blackberry and black cherry. (****½)

France – Red …
(Burgundy)
Bouchard Pere & Fils Gevrey-Chambertin ($44.95 - #0661330) – nice spice, black cherry, slightly woody, earthy, sour cherry and sour strawberry. (****)

France – Sparkling …
(Champagne)
Hure Freres L’Inattendue Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne ($38.95 - #0191312) – very toasty and caramelly, may be slightly oxidized, but still lovely, nice toasty finish. (****)

France – White …
(Burgundy)
Remoissenet 2007 Meursault ($54.95 - #0036079) – it’s got the barrel and butter ratio you think of with Chardonnay, there’s lots of toasted vanilla notes here; this will make heavily oaked Chard lovers very happy. (***½)

Italy – Red …
(Veneto)
Bertani Villa Arvedi Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006 ($37.95 - #0013417) – best Amarone of the release, and at a good price.  Sweet fruit, lovely mouthfeel, chocolate, cherry, a touch of wood; approachable right now, friendly on the palate. Under $40 makes it very good value. (****½)

Italy – White …
(Abruzzo)
Collefrisio Zero Trebbiano D’Abruzzo 2008 ($13.95 - #0181164) – frisky and fun with lovely pineapple, peach and apricot in the mouth. (****)

South Africa – Red …
Café Culture 2009 Pinotage ($13.95 - #0072710) – I like this one because it does not try to hide what it has, coffee notes throughout; if you love coffee and wine this combines the two. (****)

Spain – Red …
Juan Gil 2007 Silver Label ($21.95 - #0001677) – Juan makes excellent wines, and this is no different: juicy plum, black cherry, great drinkability and it will age well, drink now or later and enjoy. (****½)

United States – Red …
(California)
First Press 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0188110) – juicy black fruit and lovely chocolate. (****)
Kenwood 2007 Zinfandel ($19.95 - #0983577) – this is a very basic starter Zin with vanilla cherry cola and plum. (***½)
Titus 2007 Zinfandel ($34.95 - #0157594) – lots of sweet plum, vanilla and cherry; this is big game Zin with 14.9% and BBQ rib friendly, very friendly. (****½) 

United States – White …
(California)
La Crema 2008 Russian River Chardonnay ($39.95 - #0067231) – look again at the Meursault (France), this Chardonnay sits between the Mission and the Meur, though it leans more French for its big woodsy quality. (****)

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on November 13, 2010:
Titus 2007 Zinfandel ($34.95 - #0157594) – USA / California 
Santa Rita 2007 Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0275594) – Chile
Wallace by Ben Glaetzer 2008 Shiraz / Grenache ($25.95 - #0047605) – Australia 

Happy Shopping.


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Saturday November 27, 2010 - Vintages Release



I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average

Just like last release this one is about the “finest” wines and ones you will buy without any help from me … there are 157 wines in this release, I will stick with a world view of the release and basic info, or we’re never gonna get through this one together:

Argentina – Red …
Pascual Toso Alta 2007 Reserve Syrah ($29.95 - #0191601) – on the nose the fruit is dark and rich, the flavour follows from there. (****)

Australia – Red …
Marquis Philips 2008 Shiraz ($19.95 - #0017475) – such a sweet nose due in part to the 16% alcohol, but the fruit plays a part too.  Chocolate covered black cherry, smooth and supple a real crowd pleaser, hedonistic with a great chocolaty finish. (****½)
Peter Lehmann 2008 Layers ($17.95 - #0138883) – raspberry, cherry, smooth, soft and easy; great for the party you’ll throw or the one you are going to attend. (****) 
Shottesbrooke 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0198275) – pretty minty nose with a rich dark fruit palate. (****)

Canada – Red …
(Ontario)
Stratus 2007 Red ($44.20 - #0131037)
Tawse 2007 Meritage ($57.95 - #0111963)

Canada – White …
(Ontario)
Organized Crime 2008 Riesling ($21.20 - #0213173)

Chile – Red …
Vina Casablanca 2008 El Bosque Carmenere ($14.95 - #0199836) – black fruit driven with mint and a juiciness on the palate. (****)

France – Red …
(Burgundy)
Jean-Claude Fromont Bourgogne 2009 ($17.95 - #0199521) – pretty nose of floral and cherry, palate delivers sour cherry and a little earthiness; dry on the tongue with a medium finish. (***½)
(Rhone)
Domaine Galevan Paroles de Femme 2007 Cotes du Rhone ($15.00 - #0125930) – good chocolate, cherry, raspberry, vanilla and a touch of spice; a little sour on the finish and quite dry. Good price. (****)
Domaine la Fourmone Tresor du Poete Vacqueyras ($24.95 - #0194704) – red fruit, dried cherries, spice, licorice and pepper. (****)

France – Sparkling …
(Midi)
Domaine J. Laurens Les Graimenous Cremant de Limoux 2007 ($17.95 - #0183608) – quite apple-y, this is a fresh, fun and fruity guzzly bubbly. (****)

France – White …
(Alsace)
Rene Mure 2007 Pinot Gris ($17.95 - #0597757) – nice spice, a bit soapy with sweet honeyed peach. (****)
(Burgundy)
Domaine Alain Chavy 2008 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatieres 1er Cru ($64.95 - #0204628) – good fruit, hints of spice, nice use of wood, buttery with a backing of vanilla cream, very tasty, very good. (****)

Germany – White …
Schloss Schonborn 2008 Riesling Kabinett ($18.95 - #0070946) – lovely nose and taste, very Riesling-esque, fans will enjoy this beauty. (****)

Italy – Red …
(Tuscany)
Caparzo 2004 Brunello di Montalcino ($43.95 - #0579094) – this is a beauty of a Brunello. Spices, herbs, good fruit, some dried some fresh, and good tannins. (****½)
Casanova di Neri Sant’Antimo Rosso 2008 ($23.95 - #0204578) – oh boy, does this have a big hit of chocolate both on the nose and taste; elegant and dry. (****)
Fuligni 2005 Brunello di Montalcino ($53.95 - #0988808) – lots of stuffing here, big herbal note, touch of spice, a bit of earth and nice grippy tannins. (****½)
(Veneto)
Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2007 ($25.00 - #0672931) – chocolate, coffee, dark fruit, licorice with an enticing palate that delivers good sweet fruit and nice heft. (****½)
Monte Zovo Palazzo Mafei Ripasso 2007 ($13.95 - #0183426) – spice, chocolate and deep fruit flavours, smooth, supple and almost sweet from all the fruit … great price for this wine, great value. (****)

Italy – Sparkling Wine …
Ca’Dei Mandorli Brachetto D’Acqui le Donne Dei Boschi 2009 ($17.95 - #0030536) – sweet strawberry and cherries with nice flavours that linger a long time.  This is a dessert sparkler with 5.5% alcohol, so it is light as well. (****)

New Zealand – Red …
Borthwick Vineyard 2008 Paper Road Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #0179770) – earthy and sour cherry lead the charge here with a good tannin backbone, in a few years it’ll be even better. (****)

Portugal – Dessert …
Quinta de Ventozelo Reserva Port ($15.95 - #0141028) – lovely dark chocolate, black cherry and spice; this one has a lot of substance. (****½)

Portugal – Red …
Quinta do Coa Tinto 2007 ($19.95 - #0182295) – lots of lush plush fruit with nice cocoa notes. (****)

South Africa – Red …
Robertson Winery 2007 Wolfkloof Shiraz ($17.95 - #0626341) – nice smooth red berries, slightly tarrish with some blackberry backing. (***½) 

South Africa – White …
Delheim 2009 Sur Lie Chardonnay ($18.95 - #0956219) – nice and fresh with a bit of weighty vanilla on the palate and apple sauce notes. (***½)

Spain – Red …
Del Jalon Altos Las Pizarras 2005 ($18.95 - #0194746) – smooth, ripe blackberry and black cherry with a good mouthfeel. (***½)
Sierra Cantabria Seleccion 2008 ($13.95 - #0190520) – coffee and mocha take center stage here. (***½)

United States – Red …
(California)
Beringer 2006 Merlot ($29.95 - #0919647) – juicy and round, the kind of Merlot you know and love, ultimately sippable. (****)
Caymus 2007 Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon ($139.95 - #0711663) – really juicy blackberry with lots of chocolate, really nice. (****)
Macrostie 2007 Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #0674911) – nice fruit with spiced cherry and some wooden raspberries; tasty and enjoyable. (***½)

United States – Sparkling …
(California)
Mumm Brut Rosé ($29.95 - #0205641) – lovely tongue teaser with red fruit notes, good acidity; fresh and fruity, something great for celebrating the season. (****½)

United States – White …
(Chardonnay)
Matchbook 2008 Old Head Chardonnay ($17.95 - #0205492) – this is a one-night-stand Chardonnay: quick and easy. (***½)
Mer Soleil 2008 Chardonnay ($39.95 - #0958975) – sweet pear and apple with a decent hint of spiced vanilla. (***½)

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on November 27, 2010:
Quinta de Ventozelo Reserva Port ($15.95 - #0141028) – Portugal 
Marquis Philips 2008 Shiraz ($19.95 - #0017475) – Australia
Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2007 ($25.00 - #0672931) – Italy

Happy Shopping.


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Monday, October 25, 2010

Saturday October 30, 2010 - Vintages Release


I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; 
here’s the key to the stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average

Been away for a while but I’m back on track with Vintages releases for the rest of the year … in today’s release it’s California and “Fall Hearty Wines”…

California Wines …
Kicking off a look at California should start with a little bubbly: Roederer Estate Brut Rosé ($34.95 - #0479758) with its lovely nose, good palate and sweet raspberry finish (****).  Then there’s the Roederer Estate Brut Sparkling Wine ($28.95 - #0294181) no surprise here, it tastes and smells like a good French bubbly but at half the price, a definite pick up for the coming holidays (****½). 
Adelaida Cellars 2007 Anna’s Estate Vineyard Syrah ($26.95 - #0194316) very juicy wine with lots of fruit and white pepper as back up (****).  
Alderbrook 2004 Old Vines Zinfandel ($23.95 - #0603696) a true drink now Zin, 6 years old already and it is smooth with lots of fruit, plum and vanilla (****).  
Duckhorn 2008 Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #0186171) this wine has got the goods: chocolate, plum, sweet cherry and vanilla tones … mmm mmm good (****½).
Edward Sellers 2006 Cognito ($26.95 - #0194324) this wine greets you like an old friend with lots of lovely fruit and spice notes: Mourvedre, Syrah, Zinfandel and Grenache make for happy bedfellows and a pleasant palate (****).

Fall Hearty Wines …
Bodega NQN Coleccion 2006 NQN Malbec ($19.95 - #0186189) – the most interesting Malbec of the release has fallen under “Fall Hearty Wines”:  a spicy intensity, toned back fruit with wood and spicy character (***½).
Domaine Zumbaum Tomasi Clos Maginiai Pic Saint-Loup 2007 ($18.95 - #0185868) – very floral, black cherry, vanilla notes with a palate that follows the nose to a tee … best part is the juicy sweet fruit finish (****).

Argentina – White …
Familglia Bianchi 2008 Chardonnay ($12.95 - #0001461) – pleasant white with slight sweetness to the fruit, nice pineapple and mac apple; a good wine for the price. (***½)

Australia – Red …
O’Leary Walker Blue Cutting Road 2006 Cabernet/Merlot ($18.95 - #0186080) – very interesting nose that demands a tasting, sweet blackberry, vanilla, cedar with a mocha finish. (****)
Pillar Box 2007 Red ($15.00 - #0685941) – this one is maturing, not as in your face as last time through the LCBO.  But there is a pleasant raspberry compote finish that makes it worth recommending. (***½) 

Canada – Red …
(Ontario)
WildAss Red 2007 ($19.95 - #0086363) - audio review
- click on the above wine name for full review  

Chile – Red …
Luis Felipe Edwards 2007 Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($16.95 - #0169847) – lovely mint smells that lure you in and then shows up in the mouth with blackberry and black currant flavours along with a hint of spice and herbs. Interesting and tasty. (****)

France – Red …
(Beaujolais)
Chateau de Raousset 2009 Morgon ($16.95 - #183665) – black cherry, toasted vanilla and a good clean finish. (****)
(Midi)
Puydeval ($14.95 - #0184192) – taste meets price in this value wine: blackberry, lovely herbs and sweet fruit – easy drinking and very tasty. (****)
(Rhone)
Terres D’Avignon 2007 Reserve des Armoiries Eleve en Fut de Chene ($15.00 - #0194886) – sweet coffee notes and blackberry, there’s licorice here, more red than black and a touch of smoked meat; good price for this wine. (****)

France – Sparkling …
(Champagne)
Monmarthe Secret de Famille Brut Champagne ($41.95 - #0185686) – this wine is made with 20% undisclosed “white grapes” and that delivers a caramel on toast taste. (***½)

Italy – Red …
(Piedmont)
Poderi Colla Bussia Dardi le Rose Barolo 2005 ($47.95 - #0596890) – and absolute beauty of a nose: minty plums with stewed sweetened prunes and a hit of raspberry peaking through; there’s decent flavour to follow, though the nose is more interesting, dried sweet fruit and good tannins; needs time to develop. (****)
(Tuscany)
La Vite Lucente ($39.95 - #0747030) – beautiful mix of fruit and spice, great flavour: hearty and delicious. (****½)
Ruffino Santedame Chianti Classico 2007 ($19.95 - #0523076) – modern Chianti with good fruit along with rustic woody and earthy notes. (****)

Italy – White …
(Fruili)
Zaglia Friulano Latisana Friuli 2009 ($12.95 - #0182204) – smells sweet, like a pear puree, yet dry on the palate with flavours of mac apple skin; good value and one to try; bottle and label are pretty too. (****)

New Zealand – Red …
Margrain River’s Edge 2008 Pinot Noir ($22.95 - #0684258) – easy drinking Pinot that’s a touch earthy but with really good red fruit: dried cranberry especially; also find toasted vanilla and a medium length finish. (****)

New Zealand – White …
Babich Black Label 2009 Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0009142) – this wine has a real presence especially on the nose where grass and hay mix with grapefruit; palate is clean and focused on fruit with a grassy finish. (****½)

Spain –Red …
Condado de Haza 2007 Crianza ($24.95 - #0963348) – spicy, leathery with tobacco notes; mouth-drying with lots of wood tannins, needs time to come around. (****)
Montgo 2007 Monastrell/Shiraz ($13.95 - #0766588) – great value wine with dark fruit, spice and cinnamon leading the way on this palate pleaser. (****)

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on October 30, 2010:
Roederer Estate Brut Sparkling Wine ($28.95 - #0294181) – USA / California 
Familglia Bianchi 2008 Chardonnay ($12.95 - #0001461) – Argentina
Puydeval ($14.95 - #0184192) – France 

Happy Shopping.

 
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Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Vintages Releases Update

All those who follow my reports to find out what's new at Vintages are going to be disappointed for the next couple of releases - due to the busyness of the summer (moving and getting married) I missed a number of tasting.  I will resume these reports starting with the October 30th release.  Sorry for the inconvenience.


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Monday, August 2, 2010

Saturday August 21, 2010 - Vintages Release


I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average
I’m always looking for good value and I’m not afraid to give or take away a half mark for it – I’ll let you know when I’ve done so.

We’ve got “Signature Wines” and German wines on the menu this week at Vintages, let’s take a taste …

Signature Wines …
Not sure what constitutes a “signature” wine in this release – if they mean the wine you are most noted for I think they are off the mark with this first offering from Ontario: Wildass 2008 Riesling ($19.95 - #0129700), Wildass is brought to you by Stratus and this certainly isn’t their signature wine, it’s very good but definitely not signature.  From the U.S. comes Hess Estate 2008 Chardonnay ($19.95 - #0181578) a nice mix of fruit and oak, butter, toffee, with some under-ripe apple and peach; creamy in the mouth (****).  This makes more sense in the signature department, Mount Riley 2009 Sauvignon Blanc ($14.95 - #0981670), this one is mellow for a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, though it still has nice flavours: grapefruit and passionfruit lead the charge here with a long pleasing finish, price makes this one a steal (****½).  Going to California means Zinfandel, and Howling Moon 2007 Old Vines Zinfandel ($18.95 - #0057356) is a pretty good rendition of what this grape can do, plum-cherry smoothness with some vanilla adding charm (****).  From Australia is the Woop Woop 2008 Shiraz ($14.95 - #0180174) good blue and black berry with peppery chocolate undertones (****).  South Africa started their own signature grape with Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, not a wine that’s popular with everyone but this version just might change a few minds: Lammershoek 2007 Pinotage ($18.95 - #0954594).  Full of flavour with coffee and mocha notes, cherry, plum and smooth tannins, I was rightfully impressed here (****½).

German Wines …
Becker-Steinhauer 2008 Riesling Kabinett ($15.95 - #0161786) – fresh and lively Riesling with good acidity, mineral and apple-peach fruit notes (****).   
Balthasar Ress 1997 Riesling Spatlese ($21.95 - #0160762) – another week and another wine from the ‘look what we found’ department.  This is a 13 year old sweet Riesling that has stood the test of time: petrol, honey, violets, dried pear and mineral all make up this damn fine wine. (****)

Argentina – Red …
Alamos 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($13.95 - #0467944) – juicy blackberry and cherry with a satisfyingly pepper and spice finish – great price for this wine. (****) 

Argentina – White …
Accuro 2009 Torrentes ($14.95 - #0179416) – if you haven’t tried Argentina’s signature white wine, it’s time. This has a pretty Gewurztraminer-like nose with the g-wine like flavours; there’s a hint of sweetness and lovely fruit; give it a try and be ready to be impressed. (****)

Australia – Red …
Heartland 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0058099) – supple, rich and black; I know some women who are looking for that combination … of course I meant in their wine. (****)
Two Hands 2008 Brave Face Shiraz/Grenache/Mataro ($24.95 - #0660035) – this is always a wine with face melting alcohol (15.3%) but it’s lovely and quaffable at the same time: plum, coffee, blackberry are all in plentiful supply, there is also some very nice spice on the finish. (****½) 

Canada – White …
(Ontario)
- Click on wine name for full review

Chile – Red …
Los Rosales 2008 Chapel Vineyard Reserva Carmenere ($12.95 - #0169490) – black currant and blackberry lead the way, plum and black raspberry follow; good acidity and nice spice round it all off. (****)

France – Red …
(Bordeaux)
Chateau Roquetaillade La Grange Vieilles Vignes 2006 ($21.95 - #0125666) – this one’s got the goods: good black fruit, good cedar, good spice and good backbone. (****)
(Midi)
Chateau Auzias Petits Messieurs Cabardes 2008 ($14.95 - #0177592) – nice black fruit, spice, licorice root, vanilla and plum; there’s some holding power here so buy some for the cellar too. (****)
(Rhone)
Chateau de Beaucastel 2007 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($84.95 - #0711317) – chocolate, lovely sweet fruit, this wine is absolutely delicious – and it’s priced like it knows that. (****½)
Le Ferme du Mont 2007 Le Ponnant Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($17.95 - #0171371) – funny wine here, tried two bottles, one was brilliant that other barely passable, look for the one with the winery name stacked on the label, not the words all in a row. Juicy and intense with lots of black fruit and licorice. (****)
Perrin & Fils 2007 L’Andeol Rasteau ($19.95 - #0976845) – this one is just what the doctored ordered for BBQ night: juicy red fruit, mineral, pepper, good tannins backbone, nice acidity along with a cocoa laced cherry finish. (****½) 

France – Sparkling …
(Alsace)
Domaine Alimant-Laugner Brut Cremant d’Alsace ($17.95 - #0030593) – pleasant creamy lemon and apple flavour with a touch of sweetness. (****)
(Burgundy)
Louis Bouillot Perle D’Ivoire Brut Blanc de Blancs ($18.95 - #0048801) – a charming little bubbly with crisp apple and a nice limeade note. (****)

Italy – Red …
(Tuscany)
Rendola 2004 Brunello di Montalcino ($36.95 - #0181412) – earthy, smoky and dried plum with good acidity; the label is a direct Penfolds knock off, and it’s tasty too. (****)
(Veneto)
A Amarone della Valpolicella 2007 ($31.95 - #0179366) – plumy, chocolaty, good acidity and well-priced for an amarone. (****)
Antiche Terre Ripasso Valpolicella 2008 ($14.95 - #0178459) – chocolate and black cherry, a hint of sundried tomato with good spice, this is a steal at that price. (****½)

Italy – Sparkling …
(Piedmont)
Banfi 2009 Rosa Regale Acqui ($14.95 / 375ml - #0179358) – lovely strawberry-raspberry bubbly along the lines of a Moscato with its 7% alcohol, light floral note makes this a delicate, feminine and delicious dessert sipper. (****)

Italy – White …
(Veneto)
Clivus Soave 2009 Classico ($13.95 - #0181180) – light and refreshing with lemon peel and juicy mac apple. (****)

New Zealand – Red …
Babich 2008 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #0000216) – nice bit of Pinot wine making here with sour black cherry, spice, pepper and just the right amount of acidity on the finish. (****)

Portugal – Dessert …
H.M. Borges Medium Sweet Aged 3 Years Madeira ($17.95 - #0169482) – a fine Madeira my dear with orange spice, caramel and orange peel through and through. (****)
Vinzelo Ruby Port ($12.95 - #0169623) – this is a real beauty of a ruby: ripe cherry, chocolate, spice, really delicious; with and attractive label and an attractive taste, this is the complete package. (****½)

Spain – Red …
Etim 2007 Seleccion ($15.00 - #0681346) – a value priced red with red fruit, mineral, a hint of black fruit and a little chocolate thrown in for good measure. (****)

Ukraine – Dessert …
Massandra South Coast Red Dessert Wine 2005 ($14.95 - #0013920) – looking for something different to serve after the meal, this might just do the trick; enjoyably spicy with red plums; for port fans looking to expand their horizons. (****)

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on August 21, 2010:
Vinzelo Ruby Port ($12.95 - #0169623) – Portugal 
Heartland 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0058099) – Australia
Lammershoek 2007 Pinotage ($18.95 - #0954594) – South Africa

Happy Shopping.



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Saturday August 7, 2010 - Vintages Release


I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average
I’m always looking for good value and I’m not afraid to give or take away a half mark for it – I’ll let you know when I’ve done so.

Two themes take the spotlight in this week’s release: the Italians (most notably South Central Italy) and Summer Sippers from all over, let’s take a taste …

Summer Sippers …
Starting off those Summer Sippers is this bubbly from South Africa: Graham Beck Brut Rosé ($17.95 - #0175588), it’s quite the fizzy summer drink with the backing of nice strawberry and fresh raspberry – this one is full of flavour and fun (****).  In the white department there’s the Chateau de L’Ecochere 2008 Muscadet Sur Lie ($13.95 - #0169649) with it’s Sauvignon Blanc nose and classy S.B. flavours with nice acidity that’s brings it all together (****).  Italy brings in the Ricossa 2009 Moscato D’Asti ($14.95 - #0072272) and nothing says summer like Moscato, light in alcohol and long on fresh taste: a bit of spritz carrying it through on the taste buds with its ginger ale and grapey flavours; this one even has a bit of an orange note for added fun (****).  Finally, one of my favourite Ontario Rosés comes out in the 2009 version: Malivoire 2009 Ladybug Rosé ($15.95 - #0559088).  That concludes the summer sippers I was impressed with, there are plenty more great wines for summer below.

South-Central Italy …
Kicking off our trip to South-Central Italy is this Marchetti Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico 2008 ($12.95 - #0104869), this is a character based Verdicchio with nice mineral-stoniness and lemon rind, good length on the finish (****).  The Bisceglia di Vulcano Aglianico del Vulture ($14.95 - #0106302) is a juicy black fruit number with hints of spiced rum and sweet tea (****).  There’s the Apollonio 2004 Copertino Rosso ($16.95 - #0023226) with its flavours of dark fruit sprinkled with cocoa, a hint of leather and a finish with a spicy nature (****).  The rustic scented Francesco Minini Terre Avare Primitivo di Manduria 2008 ($12.95 - #0180307) with its plumy, sweet fruit palate that returns to its rustic roots on the finish (****).  And finally, the Francesco Minini Corte dei Mori Nero d’Avola ($13.95 - #0180281), this one has some real zip and zing behind it: plum, red fruit with a touch of spice, cinnamon and sweet chocolate – very juicy and very enjoyable (****½)

Argentina – Red …
Familia Cassone Finca la Florencia Malbec 2008 ($13.95 - #0063545) – go for the mid range priced Malbec this release it’s worth the dollar or so more; you get raspberry, strawberry and chocolate with herb notes and plenty of taste on the tongue. (****) 

Argentina – White …
Chakana 2009 Yaguarete Collection Sauvignon Blanc ($12.95 - #0178111) – apply what you know about Sauv Blanc and Argentina and you get the picture of the quality and value in this wine.  Lots of white fruit with hints of grass and passionfruit. (****)

Australia – Red …
Grant Burge 2008 Barossa Shiraz ($16.95 - #0738567) – nice black fruit, plum, dark chocolate with a smooth finish; this one is nicely spiced and richly seductive on the palate. (****½)

Austria – White …
Stadt Krems Lossterrassen Gruner Veltliner 2009 ($14.95 - #0180778) – I trust by now you have tried a Gruner, summer is the perfect time for this refreshing white that won’t break the bank.  Apple throughout with a touch of lemon and some grassiness. (****)

Canada – Red …
(Ontario)
Legends Estates 2002 Reserve Cabernet/Merlot ($17.95 - #0675066) – for those lovers of aged Ontario this one is for you. (****)

Canada – White …
(British Columbia)
Gray Monk 2008 Pinot Gris ($19.95 - #0118638) – lovely little sip with tastes of fresh peach, baked apple and wildflower honey. (****)
(Ontario)
Southbrook 2009 Fresh White ($16.95 - #0185462) - click wine name for full review.

Chile – Red …
Santa Laura 2007 Laura Hartwig Reserva Merlot ($13.95 - #0640946) – minty-blackberry with currants and a sweet-fruited palate, there’s also a nice spiced/herbed finish. (****)

Chile – White …
Emiliana Novas 2008 Limited Selection Chardonnay ($14.95 - #00004515) – buttered nuts, caramel apple and tasty fruit, all at a price that’s very appealing. (****)

France – Red …
(Bordeaux)
Chateau Laborie 2005 ($13.95 - #0171116) – lots of dark fruit and spice, very well priced. (****)
(Beaujolais)
Domaine de la Madone Le Perreon Beaujolais-Villages 2009 ($13.95 - #0981175) – black cherry and licorice, a touch of cedar on the back palate, this one is a well seasoned drink-now kinda wine. (****)
(Rhone)
Clos de L’Oratoire des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007 ($39.95 - #0993279) – big, bold and tasty, big fruit, big tannins and the alcohol is 14.5%, so that’s pretty big too. (****)

France – White …
(Loire)
Buisse Cuvee Prestige Sauvignon Touraine ($11.95 - #0169714) – it has the nose of Sauvignon Blanc, the palate to back it up and the price for a multiple purchase, so pick it up. (****)
Sauvion Les Bosquets Vouvray 2008 ($13.95 - #0169698) – sure it’s medium dry but it has so much going for it that it is worth you picking up half a dozen of this puppy: nice baking spice, wildflower honey, grapefruit rind, beeswax, lots of complexity and what’s more, it’s delicious.  A great balance between the sweetness and the acidity makes this wine an easy recommend – you’d think it finishes sweet but there is a beautiful tart/dry finish - surprise. (*****)

New Zealand – White …
Steve Bird 2008 Old Schoolhouse Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0178319) – this is a nice Sauv Blanc with grassy and herby notes, a tasty wine that will hold your interest. (****)

Portugal – Dessert …
Ferreira Branco Lagrima Port ($13.95 - #0980136) – this is a sweet white port with peach, cinnamon and toffee notes all with a touch of spice on the finish; and at that price it’s worth a taste, even if you say you don’t like white port. (****½)

Spain – Red …
Senorio de Unuela Edicion Limitada Reserva 2001 ($16.95 - #0172536) – look at the date of this wine, you’ll quickly know that you aren’t dealing in fresh fruit flavours, but for a 9 year old wine this one is still quite tasty.  Mature fruit flavours with spice and dried blackberries, drink now and over the next 2-3 years. (****)

United States – Red …
(California)
Ravenswood 2007 Vintners Blend Petite Sirah ($17.95 - #0161554) – deeply coloured red with lots of dark fruit and a touch of white pepper on the finish. (****)
Shafer One Point Five 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon ($84.95 - #0045476) – this here is a real collectors’ wine, you know you’re going to buy it with or without my say so; there is good age-ability in this bottle. (****)
Tandem Peloton 2007 ($19.95 - #0686261) – this wine is flavourful without being odd, and that’s a surprise for this 8 grape blend (5 red / 3 white), if nothing else it’s worth a purchase just to bring it out at a get together as a discussion piece, before and after you pull the cork. (****) 

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on August 7, 2010:
Sauvion Les Bosquets Vouvray 2008 ($13.95 - #0169698) – France 
Grant Burge 2008 Barossa Shiraz ($16.95 - #0738567) – Australia
Francesco Minini Corte dei Mori Nero d’Avola ($13.95 - #0180281) – Italy

Happy Shopping.


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Monday, July 19, 2010

Saturday July 24, 2010 - Vintages Release


I am now using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average
I’m always looking for good value and I’m not afraid to give or take away a half mark for it – I’ll let you know when I’ve done so.

Two countries take the spotlight: the Aussies (Whites) and the French (Southern France) let’s take a taste …

Australian Whites …
Unfortunately, I did not find much to write about in this section.  It’s not that there wasn’t anything good, just not much that really made me stand up and take notice, but I did find one good value, this Jip Jip Rocks 2009 Unoaked Chardonnay ($15.95 - #0175752), refreshing and clean with apple, pear and a hint of citrus at a decent price. (****)

Southern France …
We’ll start the French section off with some bubbles.  This Domaine J. Laurens le Moulin Brut Blanquette de Limoux ($16.95 – 0108323) is a smooth creamy sparkle with lemon and apple notes, quite tasty (****).  These whites from the South are quite nice: Chateau Dona Baissas Muscat de Riversaltes 2008 ($18.95 - #0175273) is a spiced Muscat with sweet ginger ale, along with hints of orange peel and peach through the mid-palate (****).  Saint-Roch 2009 Grenache Blanc/Marsanne ($13.95 - #0175232) nice light white fruit with a delicacy on the palate, refreshing and tasty (****). Moving onto the reds there’s the Chateau de Pena 2006 ($13.95 - #0178392), a touch resiny, but there is black licorice, lots of tannins and some sweet juicy black currants to back it up (****).  Chateau de Serame 2007 Reserve du Chateau Corbieres ($15.95 - #0175216), nice fruit, easy drinking with blackberry and black cherry (****). Last red, the Mas de la Deveze 66 2007 ($17.95 - #0065797) nice flavour, long finish – blackberry, chocolate with good mouthfeel (****½).  Finally, let’s look at a rosé, Bieler Pere & Fils Sabine Rosé 2009 ($12.95 - #0071423) with its raspberry taste, hints of rhubarb, cherry and nice finishing acidity (****).

Australia – Red …
Claymore Walk on the Wild Side 2007 Shiraz/Viognier ($19.95 - #0166983) – this has a lovely violet and bacon with black currant and sweet pepper. (****)
Elderton 2009 Friends Shiraz ($17.95 - #0660480) – this wine has a lot of drink-now-ability with plum, vanilla and blackberry; look for the lovely red cherry finish. One to consume with, you guessed it, friends. (****)
St. Hallett 2008 Gamekeeper’s Shiraz ($14.95 - #0166991) – this wine is not only tasty with it’s berry fruit and cocoa/chocolate on the palate, and it’s easy sippability for those night around the bbq on the patio, but it’s also great value at this price you should pick up a half dozen or so. (****½) 
Thorn-Clarke 2007 Shotfire Quartage ($19.95 - #0024091) – this is always a favourite of mine.  Is it the fruit, the cedar, the vanilla or the touch of spice? Heck it’s all of the above.  A good drinking, or short term cellaring, wine. (****½)

Canada – Red …
(British Columbia)
Tinhorn Creek 2007 Cabernet Franc ($19.95 - #0530717) – cherry notes with some tobacco, good flavour and decent length to the finish. (****)

Canada – White …
(Ontario)

France – Red …
(Rhone)
Chateau de Beaucastel 2007 Coudoulet de Beaucastel ($29.95 - #0048884) – sweet black cherry fruit, a touch smoky, juicy with a currant finish. (****)
Perrin & Fils 2007 Les Cornuds Vinsobres ($17.95 - #0566844) – red fruit dominated with licorice, white pepper and some smoked bacon. (****)

France – White …
(Alsace)
Cave de Turckheim 2007 Pinot Gris ($16.95 - #0034975) – nice palate with a certain thickness in the mouth, notes of apple sauce on the palate with a creaminess, there’s some real presence to this wine. (****)
(Loire)
Domaine de la Colline 2008 Sauvignon Touraine ($11.95 - #0169656) – stony, flinty and grapefruity. (****)

Greece – Dessert …
Cambas Mavrodaphne of Patras ($10.95 - #0178004) – a nice sweetie with a spicy kick, check out that price, worth a multiple purchase. (****½)

Greece – Red …
Lykos Kratistos 2005 ($16.95 - #0061473) – a pretty explosion of blackberry, plum and cocoa in the mouth along with a little seasoning of herbs and spice. (****)

Spain – Red …
Celler Pinol Ludovicus 2008 ($13.95 - #0067033) – black fruit, sweet red cherries and vanilla; really good value here. (****½)

Spain – Rosé …
Senorio de Sarria Rosado 2009 ($11.95 - #0168260) – there’s a little sweetness to this pink with red cherries, raspberries and strawberries; this is an easy drinking patio sipper that would be great with light summertime fare. (****)

United States – Red …
(California)
Lockwood Vineyard 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($15.95 - #0683110) – fruit forward red the delivers good value, drink up. (****)
Tres Sabores 2007 Porque No? ($29.95 - #0186551) – lots of Zinfandel notes like plum, black cherry and vanilla, big fruit, big alcohol, big taste, yum. (****)
(Washington)
Hogue 2006 Genesis Merlot ($19.95 - #0349415) – blackberry, white pepper with a hint of dark chocolate; lovely, smooth and enjoyable. (****) 

United States – White …
Clay Station 2008 Unoaked Viognier ($16.95 - #0025411) – lovely fruit here, pineapple-citrus notes, nice acidity, all at a good price. (****½)

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on July 24, 2010:
St. Hallett 2008 Gamekeeper’s Shiraz ($14.95 - #0166991) – Australia 
Thorn-Clarke 2007 Shotfire Quartage ($19.95 - #0024091) – Australia
Cambas Mavrodaphne of Patras ($10.95 - #0178004) – Greece

Happy Shopping.



 
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Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Saturday July 10, 2010 - Vintages Release


I am now using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average
I’m always looking for good value and I’m not afraid to give or take away a half mark for it – I’ll let you know when I’ve done so.

This time out the LCBO is going with Customer Favourites and great summer reds from the Beaujolais region of France, lets’ take a look …

Beaujolais …
All I can say here is: Don’t think Nouveau, these are some serious wines that you could lay down for a few years or enjoy now with a little chill.  Collin-Bourisset Les Terres Bleues Cote de Brouilly 2009 ($15.95 - #0590521), blackberry and currants with some real stuffing, good tannins and a hint of spice (****).  There’s the George DuBoeuf 2008 Le Trinquee Julienas ($16.95 - #0177543) red fruit, cedar and a touch of sweet cherry thru the mouth to the finish (****).  Finally, splurge a little with the Jean-Paul Brun 2008 Moulin-a-Vent ($19.95 - #0178301) tasty with flavours of black cherry, a little cedary oak, sawdust-like tannins but with a nice smooth finish (****).

Customer Favourites …
Leading off the “Customer Favourites” is this sparkler from Burgundy: Louis Bouillot Perle D’Aurore Brut Rosé Cremant de Bourgogne (#0048793 - $18.95), lemony with a hint of strawberry and raspberry on the nose, palate is creamy smooth and easy to drink, great little bubbly (****).  Another Customer Favourite is this Malivoire 2008 Gamay ($17.95 - #0591313), a real stunner if you like Gamay (*****).  Here’s one for the whole family to enjoy, Alamos 2008 Malbec ($13.95 - #0467951) this is what Malbec is all about, big fruit, spice and some licorice notes; Malbec fans will jump on this, and those just thinking about liking Malbec should pick up a few bottles, the price is right for the sipping and savouring (****½).  One signature grape deserves another, Concha Y Toro Winemaker’s Lot 148 Carmenere 2007 ($16.95 - #0030957) is full of minty, blackberry, black cherry and nice spice (****).  Moving on to an Australian favourite: Barossa Valley Estate 2008 E-Minor Shiraz ($17.95 - #0071043) with it’s big, bold and full flavour, this one is a big on black fruit and spicy pepper driven Shiraz (****).  Slipping over to South Africa we find The Wolftrap 2009 Syrah/Mourvedre/Viognier ($13.95 - #0626333), there’s a touch of tar here but it’s mainly black fruit, herbs and a touch earthy, highly drinkable with a juicy mid-palate, bring on the BBQ (****½).  From France you (the customer) seems to like Chateau Hauchat ($15.00 - #0175562), mocha, coffee, and black fruit mingle together nicely with just a touch of tannins (****).  The Rhone is known for some nice wines and this is no exception, Chateau Pesquie 2008 Terrasses ($13.95 - #0652313) juicy and tasty well worth picking up for your next BBQ, another wine that won’t break the bank (****).  If you’re looking for an easy on the pocket book Chianti, then might I suggest the Rocca delle Macie 2006 Chianti Riserva ($15.00 - #0111641), there’s a little bit of everything in here (****½).  Finally, Ripasso fans should be happy to see the return of Le Arche 2008 Ripasso Valpolicella ($14.95 - #0095828) nice red fruit and easy drinking at a good price (****).

Australia – Red …
Gemtree Vineyards 2008 Tadpole Shiraz ($16.95 - #0142034) – the Gemtree line is always something to write home about, and now I’ll write about it here.  It’s a little different from the norm but well worth it. (****)

Austria - White …
Domaene Gobelsburg 2009 Gruner Veltliner ($13.95 - #0965368) – if you are still one of the few who have not tried the summer refreshment of Gruner, here’s your chance: nice floral and lemony on the nose, sweet fruit on the palate with pear and peach flavours; and $13.95 is reasonable for a multiple try and buy. (****)

Canada – Red …
(Ontario)
Nyarai Cellars 2007 Cabernet Merlot  – ($18.00 - #0179739)

Chile – Red …
Loma Larga 2007 Merlot ($15.95 - #0172551) – Chile and Merlot go together like a horse and carriage, lovely mint with black fruit on the nose; easy drinking with a touch of tannins, certainly not enough to give you that fuzzy feeling, it’s just right. (****)

Chile – Rosé …
Montes 2009 Cherub Rosé Syrah ($14.95 - #0037887) – this one’s electric pink, but it’s a cracklin’ rosie if I’ve ever tasted one, that’s probably due to the white pepper on the finish.  In the mouth it’s got tasty raspberry and cherry notes. (****)

France – Red …
(Midi)
Domaine des Terres Falmet Cinsault 2008 ($12.95 - #0172650) – not a customer favourite but at this price and with this taste it should be; lovely cherry all the way thru with a touch of mocha and the merest hints of tannin. (****½)
(Rhone)
Chateau mas Neuf Tradition Rouge Costieres de Nimes ($13.95 - #0177097) – really juicy with lots of black fruit. (****)
La Bastide Saint Vincent Pavane Vacqueyras ($21.95 - #0177709) – great mouthfeel and lovely aromatics combine to make this one something worth buying; violets, chocolate and blackberries, yum. (****)

France – White …
(Alsace)
Helfrich 2008 Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #0169748) – orange flower blossom smells, flavour is slightly sweet with a spicy finish; and Helfrich followed with him.  This is quite the tasty ‘G’. (****)(Burgundy)
Michel Delhommeau Cuvee Harmonie Muscadet de Sevre-et-Maine 2008 ($12.95 - #0164624) – nice dry white with lemon and green apple.  Good value. (****)

Italy – Red …
(Sicily)
Terre di Giumara 2007 Nero d’Avola ($11.95 - #0174722) – this is a steal with juicy black fruit, hints of vanilla and spice, absolutely delicious. (****½)

Italy – White …
(Piedmont)
Bava Cocconato 2009 Moscato d’Asti ($14.95 - #0712547) – exactly what Asti should be at a reasonable price: ginger ale, peach, with a lovely bit of fizz. (****)

Portugal – Red …
Monte da Cal Reserva 2006 ($15.95 - #0030452) – sweet juicy red fruit with lots of cherry and some tannin. (****)

United States – Red …
(California)
Rodney Strong 2007 Knotty Vines Zinfandel ($19.95 - #0363358) – lovely plum fruit, chocolate, cedar, vanilla; concentrated and delicious. (****)
(Oregon)
Phelps Creek 2007 Becky’s Cuvee Pinot Noir ($26.95 - #0181438) – dry with black cherry fruit, a little raspberry and a touch of sweet spice. (****) 

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on July 10, 2010:
Alamos 2008 Malbec ($13.95 - #0467951) – Argentina 
Domaine des Terres Falmet Cinsault 2008 ($12.95 - #0172650) – France
Terre di Giumara 2007 Nero d’Avola ($11.95 - #0174722) – Italy

Happy Shopping.


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