Mid-Month Mini-Release December 17, 2011 Release

Special mid-month release for December ... Here are my favourites of the 9 wines tasted along with some notes for the higher scoring wines:

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
Valpantena 2009 Torre del Falasco Ripasso Valpolicella ($16.95 - #0642421) – Veneto, Italy

Three-and-a-Half-Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Santa Margherita 2007 Chianti Classico ($19.95 - #0091694) – Tuscany, Italy
Tedeschi 2009 Capitel Nicalo Appassimento Valpolicella Classico Superiore ($15.95 - #0984997) – Veneto, Italy

Four Star Wines (****) …
Irony 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0025106) – California, United States
Kim Crawford 2010 Merlot ($19.95 - #0680967) – New Zealand
Terra D’aligi 2007 Tatone Montepulciano D’Abruzzo ($15.95 - #0994616) – Abruzzo, Italy

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Gnarly Head 2009 Old Vine Zin Zinfandel ($16.95 - #0678698) – California, United States … best version of this wine in a few years, lots of chocolate, plum, vanilla, maraschino cherry, cola and raspberry liqueur.
J. Lohr 2008 Los Osos Merlot ($19.95 - #0027516) – California, United States … juicy blackberry, blueberry and a little vanilla.
The Wolftrap Red 2009 ($13.95 - #0626333) – South Africa … a nice blend of Syrah, Mourvedre and Viongnier; really lovely juicy, blackberry, black cherry, and roasted coffee beans, especially on the finish.  Good value, drink over next 2-3 years.

For more wine reviews and related articles go to www.ontariowinereview.com, while there sign up for Michael's free bi-weekly newsletter.

Saturday December 10, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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 last release of the year is full of Holiday Cheer (CHEER) ... what that means I am not sure because there never seems to be rhyme or reason to how these wines get selected so let's just go with that.  Holiday wines also mean some expensive stuff is hitting the shelves but if you comb through you'll also find some really decent bargains - check out the what I am buying section and the Best Buy section for those.  You'll also see some Bubbly on the menu in this release (FIZZ) - and why not, New Year's Eve is just around the corner.  Next release (January 7, 2012) is the annual Bargain wines so they'll be plenty of deals to spend what's left of your holiday cash.  As for this release, here are my recommendations ...

Argentina …

Cicchitti 2008 Edicion Limitada Malbec ($23.95 - #0260893) ... strawberry and chocolate, smooth, rich and lush in the mouth. ****

Trivento 2008 Golden Reserve Malbec ($19.95 - #0588731) ... a real fruity number wit hints of chocolate. *** 1/2

Vina Cobos 2009 Felino Malbec ($19.95 - #0118067) ... juicy black fruit, seductive and succulent, lots of raspberry and strawberry too. ****+ (CHEER)

Australia … 

Bishop by Ben Glaetzer 2009 Shiraz ($39.95 - #0627869) ... oppulent, big black fruit, rich and meaty. ****+ (CHEER)

D'Arenberg 2009 The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0943456) ... blackberry and cassis with a dry cedary finish. *** 1/2

Dutschke 2008 God's Hill Road Neigbour Shiraz ($25.95 - #0247296) ... nice blackberry spice, black pepper, plum with chocolate sauce. ****

Canada …

(British Columbia)

Gray Monk 2009 Gewurztraminer ($18.95 - #0321588) ... rosy and lychee nose with sweet grapefruit and tropical notes. ****+

Mission Hill 2007 Oculus ($70.00 - #0009316) ... there's some real finesse to this wine, dark fruit and layers of flavour with lovely spice. ****+

Osoyoos Larose 2007 Le Grand Vin ($99.95 - #0662759) ... another piece of finesse from BC, raspberry, smoked vanilla, dark chocolate and good tannin structure. ****+ (CHEER)

(Ontario) - visit OntarioWineReview.com for full review

Inniskillin 2010 Sparkling Vidal Icewine ($69.95 - #0560367) - FIZZ

Jackson Triggs 2007 Proprietors' Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine ($24.95 / 200ml - #0264325) - CHEER

Stoney Ridge 2007 Vidal Icewine ($34.95 / 375ml - #0337402)

Chateau des Charmes 2008 Old Vines Riesling ($16.95 - #0277228) - CHEER

Reif Estate 2007 First Growth Cabernet /Merlot ($40.00 - #0043869)
Vineland 2009 Pinot Meunier ($14.965 - #0225508)

Chile …

Lapostolle 2009 Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.95 - #0947929) ... deep, dark colour, blackberry, black cherry and spice with hints of coffee on the finish and lush mocha undertones. **** 1/2

Montes 2009 Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0322586) ... minty raspberry and red cherry, very quaffable. ****+

Montes 2009 Alpha Carmenere ($19.95 - #0143230) ... minty with blackberry goodness and with enough tannins to keep it interesting. ****+ (CHEER)

France … 

(Alsace)

Pierre Sparr Brut Reserve Crement D'Alsace ($16.95 - #0173401) ... nice and creamy mouthfeel, with nice lemon and vanilla notes. *** 1/2 (FIZZ)

Anne Boecklin 2008 Pinot Gris Reserve ($18.95 - #0106831) ... sweet peach and honeyed pear. *** 1/2 (CHEER)

(Bordeaux)

Chateau la Dauphine 2008 ($29.00 - #0173500) ... black fruit dominant with good tannin backbone; good for short term ageing. *** 1/2

Chateau Mondot 2008 ($45.00 - #0137463) ... chocolate, red cherry, supple and tasty; red licorice notes can be found amongst the tannins - this one will age nicely but is drinking well now. **** 1/2

(Burgundy)

Domaine Chanson 2008 Beaune Teurons 1er Cru ($43.95 - #0084426) ... cherry, mineral, strawberry and spice. *** 1/2+

(Champagne)

Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne ($54.95 - #0036962) ... lovely biscuit with almond and honey notes, very elegant shows some real finesse. **** 1/2 (FIZZ)

(Rhone)

Clos du Calvaire 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape ($34.95 - #0728139) ... smooth rich and dark fruited; chocolate, cherry, smoke, and herbal notes with some cocoa. ****

Domaine Barville 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape ($43.95 - #0148841) ... rich dark fruit, plum, black cherry and chocolate. ****+ (CHEER)

Perrin & Fils 2009 L'Andeol Cotes du Rhone Villages Rasteau ($19.95 - #0976845) ... raspberry, chocolate, cherry, white pepper with a nice lengthy finish. ****+

Pierre Amadieu 2009 Domaine Grand Romane Cuvee Prestige Gigondas ($27.95 - #0968693) ... nice dark cherry, good chalkiness with some anise and blackberry. ****

Germany …

Markus Molitor 2008 Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese ($24.95 - #0249706) ... this is a pretty tasty number, a sweet Riesling with lots of character. ****+

Italy …

(Alto Adige)

Peter Zemmer 2010 Pinot Grigio ($15.95 - #0095802) ... nice flavour of apple with a touch of pineapple. *** 1/2 (CHEER) 

(Piedmont)

Bava 2005 Barolo ($44.95 - #0232462) ... spiced cherry and dried raspberry. *** 1/2

(Tuscany)

San Felice 2007 Il Grigio Chianti Classico Riserva ($26.95 - #0716266) ... a fruit driven jobby with a nice mix of rustic and new world fruitiness on the finish. *** 1/2

San Guido 2009 Le Difese ($26.95 - #0147876) ... nose of mocha, chocolate, black cherry and sweet spice with rich fruit; palate that's has some subtlety but still with dark berries, mineral, spice and coffee bean. ****+ (CHEER)

Tenuta Sette Ponti 2008 Crognolo ($33.95 - #0727636) ... intense black currant with a slight woodsy note and drying tannins; good spice and a nice finish. ****

(Veneto)

Monte Zovo 2009 Sa'Solin Ripasso Valpolicella ($17.95 - #0650713) ... chocolate, blackberry, currant, sweet spice, black cherry, vanilla and plum; quite complex. ****+

Trabucchi D'illasi Terra del Galante Amarone della Valpolicella 2007 ($41.95 - #0248500) ... rich fruit, dark chocolate, black cherry, spiced plum. ****+

New Zealand … 

Astrolabe 2010 Voyage Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #0010421) ... lively grapefruit beginning leads to a mineral/slate style finish. *** 1/2 (CHEER)

Konrad 2010 Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0616243) ... typically New Zealand-style savvy B with pea pod, grapefruit pith and grassy notes. *** 1/2

Mt. Beautiful 2009 Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #0250514) ... mixes the tropical with the grassy for a pleasant version of this popular variety. ****

Hawkshead 2008 Pinot Noir ($30.95 - #0140632) ... nice nose with black cherry and earthy notes and the palate follows suit with touches of cranberry and good acidity. **** (CHEER)

Portugal ...

Fonseca Bin No. 27 Reserve ($15.95 - #0156877) ... chocolate, mocha and spiced black cherry with a biting finish. ****

Noval Tawny ($16.95 - #0141119) ... spiced chocolate and plum with a nice finish of spiced cherry and cocoa. ****+

Ramos Pinto Quinta da Ervamoira 10 Year Old Tawny ($35.95 - #0133751) ... dried red cherry with nice spice and a real kick to the finish. *** 1/2+

Spain …

Inurrieta Cuatrocientos 131 Crianza 2007 ($15.95 - #0246710) ... vanilla, black cherry, sweet licorice, cedar and herbs. *** 1/2

Juan Gil 2008 Monastrell ($21.95 - #0001677) ... smoky, spicy, raspberry-strawberry, cocoa, blueberry, vanilla and oak; comlex and really inviting. ****+

United States … 

(California)

Quady 2010 Essensia Orange Muscat ($13.95 / 375ml - #0299552) ... aromas of orange blossom, vanilla, honeyed apricot follow thruough on the palate with a lovely spice to the finish. *** 1/2+

Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut Sparkling Wine ($21.95 -  #0192898) ... lovely biscuity notes on the noses with a light raspberry-ness to the flavour; good acidity and a pretty salmon colour just adds to the enjoyment. **** (FIZZ)

Roederer Estate Brut Sparkling ($28.95 - #0294181) ... hazelnut biscuits with lemon pith notes. *** 1/2 (FIZZ)

La Crema 2009 Chardonnay ($37.95 - #0067231) ... buttery caramel with peach and lime on the finish. *** 1/2+

Robert Young 2007 Chardonnay ($49.95 - #0670430) ... rich and succulent in the mouth: vanilla, butter oak with a spiced finish; lacks fruit but this one has all the lumber some Chard lovers like. *** 1/2+

Shafer 2009 Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay ($59.95 - #0045583) ... big, rich, full and buttery with a nice spicy finish; it too lack a fruit component but if you like this style you'll dig this wine. *** 1/2

Belle Glos 2009 Clark & Telephone Vineyard Pinot Noir ($39.95 - #0652883) ... ripe dark fruit, spicy blackberry, white pepper and some coffe notes. ****

Beringer 2006 Napa Valley Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.95 - #0091058) ... nice spice, semi-sweet chocolate and ripe tannins. *** 1/2+ (CHEER)

Folie a Deux 2009 Menage a Trois Red ($17.95 - #0665158) ... succulent almost sweet, a real party pleaser - a party in its own name: don'tcha love it when they say "I love Menage a Trois"; makes my heart skip a beat. *** 1/2 

Freemark Abbey 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.95 - #0238758) ... smoky, meaty, black currant and biting tannins. ****

Macrostie 2006 Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir ($38.95 - #0012740) ... dark cherry, spice with good acidity and a nice dry finish. *** 1/2+

Raymond Family 2008 Classic Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.95 - #0254268) ... chocolate and red cherry, a lovely easy drinking Cab that's juicy and supple with vanilla and spice backing. ****+ (CHEER)

If You Can Afford It (they’re pricey but worth it) …

Laurent Perrier 2002 Brut Champagne ($74.95 - #0983874) - FIZZ

Roux Pere & Fils 2009 Meursault Blagny 1er Cru ($56.95 - #0241141)

Chateau Montelena 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($134.95 - #0709881) - CHEER

Duckhorn 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($74.95 - #0024190) - CHEER

Joseph Phelps 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($74.95 - #0189795)

Bodegas y Vinedos 2007 Alion ($78.95 - #0199331)

Best Buys (wine that over delivers for its price) …

Chateau Rochecolombe 2009 Cotes du Rhone ($14.95 - #0255034) - France ... ****+

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on December 10, 2011:

Raymond Family 2008 Classic Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.95 - #0254268) - USA

Vina Cobos 2009 Felino Malbec ($19.95 - #0118067) - Argentina

Lapostolle 2009 Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0947929) - Chile

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

For more wine reviews and related articles go to www.ontariowinereview.com, while there sign up for Michael's free bi-weekly newsletter.

Saturday November 26, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

This release focuses on the LCBO's Finest (FINE).  At this time of year the LCBO parades out the good wines for you to buy as gifts or for gatherings you may be having or attending.  "Our Finest" also means "no cheap wines", this is the largest selection of over $100 wines you'll likely see all year, which means you'll have to expand your definition of Best Buys this release - instead of being under $15 (as is the norm) we'll have to bump it by five bucks this time round.  The Other focus is spirits, and regular readers know that's just not my bag.

Argentina …

Benmarco 2009 Malbec ($16.95 - #0657601) – spiced coffee, black cherry with hints of sandlewood and bramble notes. (*** ½+)

Australia … 

Grant Burge 10 Year Old Tawny ($30.95 - #0058388) – a really nice tawny with flavours of dried cherries and almonds. (****+)

Kaesler 2008 Stonehorse Shiraz/Grenache/Mourvedre ($22.95 - #0006551) – sweet fruit with a juicy palate: strawberry, raspberry and anise on the finish. (****)

Ladies Who Shoot Their Lunch Shiraz 2008 ($34.95 - #0243592) – nice elegant Shiraz, not over the top fruit and with good white pepper notes. (*** ½+)

Canada …

(British Columbia)

Burrowing Owl 2008 Meritage ($59.95 - #0695148) – smoked red berries on the nose, smoked blackberry, spice, and leather.  Let it mellow another year or two. (*** ½+) - FINE

(Ontario) - Click on wine for full review

Equifera 2008 Vidal Icewine ($49.95 - #0258715)

Inniskillin 2008 Riesling Icewine ($69.95 - #0558288) – FINE

Stratus 2009 Gewurztraminer ($32.20 - #0251447)

13th Street 2010 Gamay Noir ($19.95 - #0177824)

Calamus 2008 Cosmic Red ($17.95 - #0258129)

Le Clos Jordanne 2009 Le Grand Clos Pinot Noir ($75.00 - #0034553) – FINE

Stratus 2007 Merlot ($42.20 - #0131003) - FINE

Chile …

Concha y Toro 2008 Winemaker’s Lot 115 Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #0030965) – minty dark fruit and very juicy. (*** ½+)

Errazuriz 2010 Wild Ferment Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #0510396) – light in the glass and light on the nose, but there’s good flavour here with sour cherry and loads of spice. (*** ½+)

France … 

(Alsace)

Lucien Albrecht 2009 Albrecht Gewurztraminer ($18.95 - #0926931) – nice sweetness along with rose petal and pineapple. (*** ½)

(Bordeaux)

Chateau de Monturon 2009 ($23.95 - #0171017) – shows smoky dark fruit finesse. (*** ½)

(Burgundy)

Domaine Louis Jadot 2006 Beaune Theurons 1er Cru ($45.95 - #0042838) – spiced cranberry, sour cherry, juicy thru the mouth with nice earthy finish and some length of sour spiced cherry. (****+) – FINE

(Champagne)

Georges Garnet Brut Cuvee Saint Flavy Champagne ($39.95 - #0924654) – nice flavour: lemon, biscuit and wild flower honey with a nice mineral aspect. (****)

(Midi)

Cave de Roquebrun 2009 La Grange des Combes Saint-Chinian Roquebrun ($16.95 - #0155804) – a shy nose but with some lively dark fruit on the palate, nice spiced pepper finish. (*** ½)

Germany …

Kurt Darting 2008 Riesling Spatlese ($19.95 - #0963207) – great sweetness here with the right amount of mineral and acidity to balance it out: peachy, passion-fruit with quite the tang sensation. (*** ½)

Reichsrat Von Buhl 2008 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #0249649) – not just a good German Pinot but a good Pinot alround: earthy, mushroomy, cranberry and sour cherry; it’s all there. (****+)

Italy …

(Abruzzo)

Ulisse Unico Pecorino 2010 ($17.95 - #0249128) – ripe pineapple, pear, golden plums and a nice little floral note. (*** ½)

(Calabria)

Du Cropio Don Giuva Ciro Rosso Classico Superiore 2005 ($17.95 - #0250829) – red berry and spice with good acidity on the finish. (*** ½+)

(Sicily)

Duca di Salaparuta Passo delle Mule Nero D’Avola ($19.95 - #0250928) – the cocoa raspberry finish makes this one, the rest is gravy. (*** ½+)

(Trentino)

Istituto Agrario San Michele All’Adige Pinot Grigio 2010 ($18.95 - #0249540) – nice texture, lemon lime pith with clean minerality and good herbal notes. (*** ½)

(Tuscany)

La Vite 2009 Lucente ($39.95 - #0747030) – floral, cassis and spice. (*** ½+)

Ruffino 2006 Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Riserva ($43.95 - #0353201) – this one has all the goods to make it pleasureable, plus leather notes, dark fruit and smoke. (****+)

(Veneto)

Belcanto di Bellussi Extra Dry Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Superiore ($17.95 - #0053215) – crisp, clean and fresh with hints of green apple and lemon. (*** ½)

Villa Girardi 2007 Amarone della Valipocella Classico ($39.95 - #0159913) – sweet fruit of plums and melting chocolate, good spiced-chocolate finish, (****)

New Zealand … 

Ata Rangi 2009 Petrie Chardonnay ($33.95 - #0247270) -  nice peach and pear notes but it is not over the top with fruit, there’s a mellowness that’s ultimately sippable.  Nice spicy character mid-palate to finish. (****+)

Momo 2010 Pinot Gris ($18.95 - #0163535) – interesting grapefruit zest that mixes with hints of pear; quite the character. (*** ½+)

Kim Crawford 2008 Small Parcel Corner 50 Merlot ($29.95 - #0252320) – blackberry and leather follows on the palate with some smoked vanilla, this is not your mellow Merlot (****)

South Africa …

Amani 2009 Chardonnay ($17.95 - #0687442) – nice palate, stone fruit, butter, spice, butterscotch and mineral; lots of flavour. (*** ½)

Mooiplaas 2010 The Bean Coffee Pinotage ($13.95 - #0251165) – this one is pure coffee bean, an acquired taste. (*** ½)

Viljoensdrift 2005 Serenity ($23.95 - #0037523) – older wine with some older characteristics, but with enough fruit and spice to hold up. (*** ½)

Spain …

Emilio Lustau East India Solera Sherry ($16.95 - #0713636) – nuts, spice and creamy caramel all blend together to make a sweet (beginning) spicy (finish) after dinner bevy. (****+)

Diego Zamora Licor 43 ($37.95 - #0263780) – I don’t usually do liqueur but this is too good to pass up. Vanilla, toasted marshmallow and burnt almond chocolate with a wow finish … if you can figure out how to make “little beers” (it’s a shot you can find the recipe for on the internet) you’ll have a bang up get-together. (**** ½)

Miguel Torres 2007 Mas La Plana Cabernet Sauvignon ($46.95 – 0129676) – this is a delicious cellar dweller, a keeper for all its spice, dark fruit, mocha and oak notes. (****)

Prado Rey 2006 Crianza ($20.95 - #0725820) – starts off slow on the nose but seems to come alive on the palate. (*** ½+)

United States …

(California)

Chappellet 2009 Chardonnay ($39.95 - #0186577) – more fleshy than fruity with some vanilla notes that liven up the palate and a nice wood spice. (*** ½+)

Scott Family Estate 2010 Dijon Clone Chardonnay ($23.95 - #0099051) – good fruit, good flavour, nicely balanced with wood and fruit.  Good finish. (*** ½+)

Acacia 2007 Pinot Noir ($29.95 - #0235960) – sweet fruit, red and black cherry, some raspberry on the finish with a slight mocha note. (*** ½+)

Cuvaison 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($49.95 - #0944827) – sweet licorice, coffee liqueur and chocolate. (****)

J. Lohr 2006 Carol’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($27.95 - #0246918) – sweet fruit, very Californian cab. (****+)

Kenwood 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($21.95 - #0990440) – has a lively juiciness with gentle spice.  Drinks well now. (*** ½+)

Stags’ Leap Winery 2007 Merlot ($44.95 - #0655399) – dark fruit and spice on the finish with hints of coffee and cocoa; maybe a little too much oak, will time bring out the fruit? (*** ½)

(Oregon)

Erath Willamette Valley Estate 2008 Selection Pinot Noir ($41.95 - #0984625) – nice juicy core with cranberry, cherry and vanilla; good finesse here. (****+)

(Washington)

Bombing Range Red 2007 ($19.95 - #0233460) – and interesting blend of grapes; a delicious wine full of red fruit, herbal notes and spice with just the merest hint of oak and a finish that bombards the tongue with flavour again and again. (****+)

If You Can Afford It (they’re pricey but worth it) …

Dow’s 1985 Vintage Port ($91.95 - #0745836) - Portugal … FINE

Dunn Vineyards 2007 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon ($96.95 - #0193763) - USA … FINE

Far Niente Estate 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($132.95 - #0539098) - USA … FINE

Jonata 2007 El Alma de Jonata ($143.95 - #0218925) - USA … FINE

L’Aventure Estate 2009 Cuvee ($94.95 - #0249375) - USA … FINE

Pahlmeyer 2007 Proprietary Red ($132.95 - #0967992) - USA … FINE

Peter Michael 2006 L’Esprit des Pavots ($144.95 - #0154732) - USA … FINE

Catena Zapata 2007 Nicasia Vineyard Altamira Malbec ($79.95 - #0132357) - Argentina … FINE

Barossa Valley Estate 2005 E & E Black Pepper Shiraz ($89.95 - #0731620) – Australia … FINE

Henschke 2005 Mount Edelstone Vineyard Shiraz ($99.95 - #0718601) - Australia … FINE

Chateau Pontet Canet 2008 ($129.00 - #0137323) - France … FINE

Chateau de Beaucastel 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape ($89.95 - #0711317) - France … FINE

Gaja 2005 Dagromis Barolo ($64.95 - #0092742) - Italy … FINE

Tenuta San Guido 2008 Sassicaia ($186.95 - # 0480533) - Italy … FINE

Masi 2004 Campolongo di Torbe Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($99.95 - #0548677) - Italy … FINE

Masi 2004 Mazzano Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($99.95 - #0215764) - Italy … FINE

Quintarelli 2002 Rosso ca’del Merlo ($84.95 - #0958595) - Italy … FINE

Best Buys (wine that over delivers for its price) …

Bird in the Hand Two in the Bush Shiraz ($17.95 - #0243634) – Australia

Flagstone 2009 Writer’s Block Pinotage ($19.95 - #0243337) – South Africa

Reichsrat Von Buhl 2008 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #0249649) – Germany

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on November 26, 2011:

Bombing Range Red 2007 ($19.95 - #0233460) – United States

Errazuriz 2010 Wild Ferment Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #0510396) – Chile

Diego Zamora Licor 43 ($37.95 - #0263780) – Spain

Happy Shopping.

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

For more wine reviews and related articles go to www.ontariowinereview.com, while there sign up for Michael's free bi-weekly newsletter.

Vintages Shop Online November 03, 2011 Release

Here are my favourites of the 10 wines tasted – no notes just the star ratings; top rated wine has a note:

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
John Duval 2007 Entity Shiraz ($49.00 - #0073056) – Australia

Three-and-a-Half-Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Joffre E Hijas 2006 Premium Merlot ($25.00 - #0014084) – Argentina
Fitapreta 2007 Preta ($49.00 - #0111203) – Portugal

Four Star Wines (****) …
Krug Grande Cuvee Brut Champagne ($129.00 / 375ml - #0038588) – Champagne, France
Domaine Zind Humbrecht 2008 Heimbourg Riesling ($47.00 - #0218578) – Alsace, France
Domaine Grand Veneur 2009 La Fontaine Chateauneuf du Pape ($65.00 - #0241471) – Rhone, France

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Ruinart Brut Champagne ($74.00 - #0189878) – Champagne, France
Newton 2007 Unfiltered Cabernet Sauvignon ($65.00 - #0606533) – California, United States
Cloudy Bay 2007 Pinot Noir ($38.00 - #0598813) – New Zealand

Four-and-a-Half Star Wines (**** ½) …
Banfi 2007 Excelsus ($79.00 - #0983916) – Tuscany, Italy … rich succulent and juicy, lots of dark fruit and spice, good acidity and a drying finish.

For more wine reviews and related articles go to www.ontariowinereview.com, while there sign up for Michael's free bi-weekly newsletter.

Saturday November 12, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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 will be focusing on Premium Products (PREM), which basically translate into "not cheap" and Ports and Sweeties (SWEET), and there are some real lovelies in this batch.  So without further ado we'll get right to them.  As introduced a few releases ago I have made a few changes to the report: the addition of an “If You Can Afford It” section for expensive wines that are worth their price (this is where you'll find most of those "Premium" products); I have removed the “red” and “white” labels in favour of just using colour to indicate type; and the Best Buy bargain section will just have ratings, no notes, if you’re a bargain hunter you’ll love these wines.

Argentina … 

Vina Cobos 2010 Felino Chardonnay ($19.95 - #0119099) – juicy and fruity without being over the top buttery, there is some nice spice on the finish. (*** ½+)

Maipe 2009 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #0246116) – crème de cassis, chocolate, espresso and much more, good delivery and acidity. (****)

Australia … 

Cat Amongst the Pigeons 2009 Nine Lives Shiraz ($17.95 - #0093138) – red licorice and big cherry notes. (*** ½+)

Mollydooker 2008 The Boxer Shiraz ($34.95 - #0246595) – sweet blackberry, plum, chocolate, cherry with layers of fruit and big alcohol, 16%. (**** ½)

Stalking Horse 2008 Shiraz ($17.95 - #0251215) – cute label with a more than cutesy wine under it; this wine shows finesse and refinement full of fruit but with a mineral seam. (**** ½)

Austria …

Lenz Moser 2008 Prestige Trockenbeerenauslese ($19.95 / 375ml - #0729657) – the perfect dessert wine with apricot, honeyed pear notes and so much more; stunningly delicious. (**** ½+) – SWEET

Canada …

(British Columbia)

Burrowing Owl 2008 Syrah ($41.95 - #073072) – good mouthfeel, smoked meat, white pepper and plum. (****)

Mission Hill 2008 Quatrain ($41.95 - #0218636) – nice balance of fruit and spice with a dry tannic finish; should evolve over the next 3-4 years. (****) - PREM

(Ontario)

Jackson Triggs 2009 Niagara Estate Gold Series Merlot ($21.95 - #0255901)

Chile …

Montes 2009 Alpha Syrah ($19.95 - #0000612) – minty-fruity and tasty, look for plum and white pepper on the finish. (****+)

Vina Chocalan 2008 Syrah Reserva ($14.95 - #0038513) – minty dark fruit, pepper and spice with hints of chocolate and vanilla on the finish. (*** ½+)

France … 

(Bordeaux)

Chateau Beau-Site 2004 ($37.95 - #0967844) – cedar, plum, spice, licorice with lots of grip. (*** ½+) - PREM

Chateau Seguin 2008 ($47.95 - #0245837) – nice black fruit, cassis, dark cocoa, woody and smoky; good ageability. (*** ½)

La Gravette de Certan ($49.00 - #0187278) – woody, smoky with backbone of wild sour raspberry/strawberry with grittiness. (*** ½+)

(Burgundy)

Rene Bouvier 2008 La Justice Gevrey-Chambertin ($44.95 - #0241075) – nice black cherry and blackberry, sour cherry and tart cranberry. (*** ½+)

Roche de Bellene 2008 Volnay les Pitures 1er Cru ($44.95 - #0241083) – subtle spice, sour fruit and good acidity. (****) - PREM

(Rhone)

Chusclan 2009 Les Genets Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($19.95 - #0245399) – black cherry, vanilla and plum. (*** ½+

E. Guigal 2007 Gigondas ($29.95 - #0331900) – dark sour fruit on the front end, smoother and juicier in the middle with a lovely mix of each with silky tannins on the finish. (****)

Italy …

(Campania)

Ponte Grecco di Tufo 2009 ($17.95 - #0250936) – light and lemony with a lemon pith finish that’s a touch bitter, very nice with good acidity. (*** ½)

(Tuscany)

Capanna 2006 Brunello di Montalcino ($47.95 - #0651588) – spice, herbs, sour cherry and a nice lengthy finish. (****) – PREM

Castello di Querceto 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva ($27.95 - #0650754) – plum, blackberry, cassis, licorice, spice, oak and smoke. (*** ½+)

Rocca delle Macie 2006 Chianti Classico Riserva ($21.95 - #0930966) – nice hint of spice, nice bite rustic yet modern at the same time. (*** ½)

Tenuta San Guido 2009 Guidalberto ($49.95 - #0072439) – has a softness of fruit and smoothness of palate, delightfully good. (****)

(Veneto)

Villa Girardi Bure Alto Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2009 ($17.95 - #0161844) – nice fruit, easy drinking, dark plum with semi-sweet chocolate. (****)

New Zealand ...

Spy Valley 2010 Gewurztraminer ($19.95 - #0032870) – lots of spicy, rose petal notes with a lychee sweet palate. (****)

Thornbury 2010 Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0734798) – guava and gooseberry, grapefruit cocktail and grassy finish; quite intense. (*** ½+)

Wither Hills 2010 Wairau Valley Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0919514) – a little more toned down with tropical, lemon, lime and green apple; a fresh grassy finish. (****)

Framingham 2009 Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #0699322) – very nice fruit with a tart sweet fruit mix, nice dry-sour cherry-oak finish. (****+)

Portugal …

Quinta do Noval Black Port ($24.95 - #0235689) – black cherry and spice with quite a lot of bite. (*** ½) – SWEET

Sivipa 2008 Moscatel de Setubal ($15.95 - #0246652) – not to be passed up, especially for the price, it’s a kick of spice and acid that really makes this sweetie amazing. (**** ½) – SWEET

Quinta de Cabriz 2008 Seleccionada Colheita ($14.95 - #0247973) – sweetness of plum, cherry, raspberry and spice. (****)

South Africa ...

Durbanville Hills 2010 Rhinofields Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0173864) – pretty Sauvignon Blanc with lots of lovely grapefruit and a puckering finish with great length. (*** ½+)

Vinum 2009 Africa Chenin Blanc ($14.95 - #0739995) – mineral, peach pit, apple core and lime. (*** ½)

Spain …

Osborne Pedro Ximenez 1827 Sweet Sherry ($17.95 - #0047944) – thick, sweet and delicious; pecan pie or raisin pie filling. (****+) – SWEET

Duque de Medina 2000 Gran Reserva ($18.95 - #0148494) – nicely aged, keeps fruit yet with dried character, spice and pepper all for under $20; good value. (****)

United States … 

(California)

Patz & Hall 2009 Chardonnay ($38.95 - #0200808) – sweet butterscotch note that seems to linger in the mouth. (*** ½)

Rutherford Ranch 2009 Chardonnay ($18.95 - #0136382) – sweet fruit, pear / apple and vanilla, soft and supple; drink now. (****)

Belle Glos 2009 Meiomi Pinot Noir ($26.95 - #0130138) – this is Pinot for non-Pinot fans; this one has fruit up the ying-yang with chocolate notes, but there also seems to be a dry mineral-ish seam with vanilla and spice backing. (****)

(Oregon)

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2009 Pinot Gris ($18.95 - #0940528) – pleasant, white fruit driven, pear, mac apple with hints of lemon on the finish. (*** ½)

Best Buys (wine that over delivers for its price) …

Henry’s Drive 2008 Pillar Box Red ($14.95 - #0685941)

Delas Freres Saint-Esprit Cotes du Rhone 2009 ($15.95 - #0729962)

Agriverde Riseis Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2008 ($14.95 - #0134478)

Sampietrana Vigna delle Monache Riserva Salice Salentino 2006 ($15.95 - #0247908)

Bodegas de los Rios Prieto Prios Maximus Roble 2009 ($14.95 - #0103432)

If You Can Afford It (they’re pricey but worth it) …

Moet & Chandon 2002 Brut Grand Vintage Champagne ($81.95 - #0069773) – PREM

Beringer 2008 Sbragia Limited Release Chardonnay ($54.95 - #0079178) – PREM

Bouchard Pere & Fils 2008 Beaune Clos Landry 1er Cru ($51.95 - #0124651) – PREM

Jonata 2007 Todos Red ($59.95 - #0218941) – PREM

L’Aventure 2009 Optimus Estate ($57.95 - #0683409) – PREM

Rubicon Estate 2007 Cask Cabernet Sauvignon ($74.95 - #0029553) – PREM

D’Arenberg 2008 The Dead Arm Shiraz ($54.95 - #0981183) – PREM 

Two Hands 2008 Zippy’s Block Single Vineyard Shiraz ($59.00 - #0089516) – PREM 

Chateau Malescot St. Exupery 2008 ($64.00 - #0136630) – PREM

Ornellaia 2009 Le Serre Nuove dell’Ornellaia ($59.95 - #0606194) – PREM

Tenuta Sette Ponti 2008 Oreno ($74.95 - #0735597) – PREM 

Masi 2005 Serego Alighieri Vaio Armaron Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($69.95 - #0462812)

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on November 12, 2011:

Lenz Moser 2008 Prestige Trockenbeerenauslese ($19.95 / 375ml - #0729657) – Austria

Sivipa 2008 Moscatel de Setubal ($15.95 - #0246652) – Portugal

Stalking Horse 2008 Shiraz ($17.95 - #0251215) – Australia

Happy Shopping

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Vintages Shop Online October 20, 2011 Release

Here are my favourites of the 11 wines tasted – no notes just the star ratings; top rated wine, has a note:

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
Archipel 2005 ($49.00 - #0710319) – California, United States
Stonestreet 2007 Bear Point Cabernet Sauvignon ($69.00 - #0252353) – California, United States
Quinta do Vallado 2008 Touriga Nacional ($32.00 - #0137018) – Portugal

Three-and-a-Half-Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Muratie Ansela Van de Caab 2008 ($29.00 - #0588202) – South Africa

Four Star Wines (****) …
Besseret de Bellefon Cuvee des Moines Brut Rosé Champagne ($44.95 - #0227587) – Champagne, France
Silverado Vineyards 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon ($54.00 - #01111880) – California, United States

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Edmeades 2007 Perli Vineyard Zinfandel ($39.00 - #0252338) – California, United States
Valdez 2007 Landy Vineyard Zinfandel ($47.00 - #0249359) – California, United States
Allegrini 2006 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($89.00 - #0705780) – Veneto, Italy

Four-and-a-Half Star Wines (**** ½) …
Emilio Lustau Emilin Solera Reserva Moscatel Sherry ($18.00 - #0248518) – Spain … caramel, orange peel, spiced almonds and pecans; it’s like a turtle with citrus notes.  Creamy, elegant, and succulent.  Real panty remover.
Fall Line 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($34.00 - #0249052) – Washington, United States … this is an elegant Cab with big fruit of both red and black origin and a lovely spicy finish.  Drink now or age a few more years.

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Vintages Shop Online October 6, 2011 Release

Here are my favourites of the 11 wines tasted – no notes just the star ratings; top rated wine, has a note:

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
Trimbach 2007 Reserve Pinot Gris ($24.00 - #0971762) – Alsace, France
Pelton House 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($48.00 - #0196055) – California, United States
Robert Mondavi 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($109.00 - #0238659) – California, United States

Three-and-a-Half-Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Justino’s 10 Year Old Medum Dry Verdelho Madeira ($23.00 - #0248526) – Portugal

Four Star Wines (****) …
Nicolas Feuillatte 2004 Brut Champagne ($62.00 - #0240085) – Champagne, France
Chateau Coutet 2009 ($74.00 - #0248740) – Bordeaux, France
Domaine du Petit Metris Les Tetueres Chaume 2005 ($35.00 - #0246777) – Loire, France
Envoy 2008 Pinot Noir ($47.00 - #0238501) – New Zealand

Four-and-a-Half Star Wines (**** ½) …
Domaine Zind Humbrecht 2008 Wintzenheim Gewurztraminer ($35.00 - #0918078) – Alsace, France … everything that is lovely about Gewurzt lives here: spicy, floral and just the right amount of balanced sweetness.

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Saturday October 15, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

Another three things have caught the eye of the LCBO for this weekend's release.  ONe is Whiskey, which I have to admit I am no expect on.  The other two: Argentina (ARG) and a Tuscan/Piedmont (T/P) split, takes up the rest of the releases features.  As introduced a few releases ago I have made a few changes to the report: the addition of an “If You Can Afford It” section for expensive wines that are worth their price; I have removed the “red” and “white” labels in favour of just using colour to indicate type; and the Best Buy bargain section will just have ratings, no notes, if you’re a bargain hunter you’ll love these wines.

Argentina … 

Catena 2009 Alta Chardonnay ($39.95 - #0959973) – almost Californian in style with lots of wood and with sweet fruit notes poking through all this rides on the tail of vanilla, caramel and spice. (*** ½) – ARG

Catena 2008 Alta Malbec ($49.95 - #0982355) – stunning Malbec, always loaded with flavour. (****+) – ARG

Luigi Bosca 2008 Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #0128629) – lovely nose and palate, full of dark fruit, blueberry, chocolate and spice. (*** ½+)

Riglos 2007 Gran Corte ($37.95 - #0243501) – mocha and chocolate wrapped around deep dark fruit. (****) – ARG

Viniterra 2005 Select Malbec ($21.95 - #0177964) – sweet fruit: cherry along with sweet spices, this really delivers on flavour. (****) – ARG

Australia … 

Josef Chromy 2010 Pepik Pinot Noir ($26.95 - #0162990) – Pinot Noir from Australia is mostly a jammy affair, but the Chromy wines have true cool climate character; lovely strawberry with an earthy quality and just the right amount of spice and acidity on the finish. (****+)

Tait 2007 The Wild Ride Shiraz ($19.95 - #0243584) – lots of chocolaty flavour with hints of pepper mixed in. (*** ½)

Two Hands 2010 Brave Faces Grenache/Shiraz/Mataro ($33.95 - #0660035) – lot of big dark fruit with raspberry, cherry and chocolate. (****)

Two Hands 2008 Sophie’s Garden Shiraz ($46.00 - #0062380) – eucalyptus, chocolate and blackberry with a whopping 15.8% alcohol content, even the spice seems big.  A little hot on the finish which downgrades the mark by half a point. (****)

Austria …

Glatzer 2008 Riedencuvee Zweigelt ($15.95 - #0221051) – laid back style with a goodly amount of fruit and spice. (*** ½)

Canada …

(Ontario)

Fielding 2010 Pinot Gris ($21.95 - #0251108)

Peller Estates 2010 Private Reserve Sauvignon Blanc ($18.95 - #0692631)

Inniskillin 2008 Winemaker’s Series Three Vineyards Pinot Noir ($22.95 - #0175174)

Le Clos Jordanne 2009 Le Clos Jordanne Vineyard Pinot Noir ($45.00 - #0033902)

Reif 2009 The Magician Shiraz/Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #0246413)

Southbrook 2007 Whimsy! Cabernet Sauvignon ($33.95 - #0260281)

The Foreign Affair 2008 The Conspiracy ($19.95 - #0149237)

Chile …

Morande 2010 Reserva Sauvignon Blanc ($12.95 - #0252346) – soft acidity with tropical fruit through the mid-palate and then kicks in with some grapefruit on the finish. (*** ½)

France … 

(Alsace)

Pierre Sparr 2009 Reserve Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #0747600) – lovely rose petal nose which follows onto the palate, delicate and delicious, just what you want in a G-wine. (****+)

(Beaujolais)

Domaine J. Boulon 2009 Morgan ($19.95 - #0241166) – black cherry and spice with a hint of raspberry and toast. (*** ½+)

(Burgundy)

Michel Picard 2009 Clos Paradis Mercurey 1er Cru ($28.95 - #0086603) – my favourite region of Burgundy and this is a good representation: spiced-strawberry with good tannins. (*** ½+)

(Loire)

Andre & Edmond Figeat 2010 Les Chaumiennes Pouilly-Fume ($21.95 - #0196659) – vanilla smokiness amongst a citrus backdrop with nice acidity on the finish. (****)

Greece …

Skouras 2008 Saint George Aghiorghitiko ($16.95 - #0162321) – good fruit, silky tannins, nice finish, very drinkable. (*** ½)

Italy …

(Piedmont)

Giacomo Fenocchio 2005 Bussia Barolo ($42.95 - #0232421) – between the fruit and spice and the dried nature of both this wine really delivers. (****) – T/P

(Puglia)

Masseria Altemura Sasseo Primitivo 2008 ($16.95 - #0230573) – nice Zinfandel alternative with plum, ripe black cherry, and raspberry-cherry compote on the finish. (****)

(Sicily)

Case Ibidini 2010 Insolia ($13.95 - #0211839) – citrus aromas with grapefruit pith linger and some lime as it makes its way across the palate. (*** ½)

(Tuscany)

Cordella 2009 Rosso di Montalcino ($19.95 - #0251462) – a light, fruit-driven, easy drinking red. (*** ½) – T/P

Marchesi de’Frescobaldi 2009 Terre More Dell’ Ammiraglia ($19.95 - #0239889) – hot damn, what a nose and palate this wine really delivers the goods, another winner from Frescobaldi. (****+) – T/P

Poggio Verrano Chance 2005 ($33.95 - #0239707) – at first this one was hard to get into, but then the wine grabs you on the palate with smoky-wood notes, dark fruit, licorice and mocha. (*** ½+) – T/P

Poliziano 2007 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano ($25.95 - #0988055) – leathery, chocolate, blackberry, cassis and spice. (*** ½) – T/P

San Felice Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino 2005 ($44.95 - #0991075) – quite fruity but with a nice dry finish. (*** ½) – T/P

Volpaia 2008 Chianti Classico ($21.95 - #0953828) – straddles the line between rustic and fruity, seems to change right before your eyes … or should I say palate … drinks well now. (****) – T/P

Romania …

Livia Feteasca Neagra 2009 ($16.95 - #0244392) – sweet strawberries dominate, nice little wine here. (*** ½+)

South Africa ...

Graham Beck 2010 Sauvignon Blanc ($13.95 - #0948620) – very goosy and grassy with a fresh grass linger. (*** ½)

United States … 

(California)

Acacia 2009 Chardonnay ($27.95 - #0080556) – a woody, vanilla and caramelly treat, pure California here with a hint of oak spice on the finish. (*** ½)

Domaine Napa 2008 Chardonnay ($23.95 - #0244483) – lovely vanilla and peach fruit with a vanilla cream finish. (*** ½+)

Liberty School 2008 Zinfandel ($18.95 - #0041095) – this is pretty much standard issue Zinfandel, but good standard issue Zinfandel, with a nice raspberry finish. (*** ½)

Pazzo 2007 Call Me Crazy Proprietary Red ($31.95 - #0677708) – this is a Sangiovese from California, interesting wine with dark fruit and white pepper. (*** ½+)

Peju 2006 Merlot ($44.95 - #0147322) – a good drinking Merlot with blue and black berries and hints of vanilla. (*** ½+)

Ridge 2009 Geyserville ($42.95 - #0723072) – a wicked blend that’s Zinfandel based, far from the ordinary and worth tasting. (****)

(Oregon)

Kings Ridge 2009 Pinot Noir ($21.95 - #023776) – quite fruit driven with blackberry, strawberry and cassis with touches of earthiness and spiced cinnamon. (****)

Best Buys (wine that over delivers for its price) …

Korta 2009 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($13.95 - #0236034) - *** ½

Montes 2010 Limited Edition Selection Cabernet Sauvignon/ Carmenere ($14.95 - #0016071) - ****

SXS 2008 Step Two Shiraz ($14.95 - #0246645) - ****

Girolamo 2008 Vendemmia Tardiva Primitivo ($14.95 - #0224667) - ****+

Vinea 2007 Corvina ($12.95 - #0230649) - *** ½

If You Can Afford It (they’re pricey but worth it) …

Shafer 2007 One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon ($79.95 - #0045476)

Finca Los Nobles 2005 Cabernet/Bouchet ($63.95 - #0175547) - ARG

Chateau Troplong Mondot 2007 ($115.00 - #0102715)

Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe 2008 La Crau Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($72.95 - #0951475)

Antinori 2005 Pian delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino ($59.95 - #0651141) – T/P

Luce Della Vite Luce 2008 ($99.95 - #0685263) – T/P

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on October 15, 2011:

Pierre Sparr 2009 Reserve Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #0747600) – France

Marchesi de’Frescobaldi 2009 Terre More Dell’ Ammiraglia ($19.95 - #0239889) - Italy

Josef Chromy 2010 Pepik Pinot Noir ($26.95 - #0162990) – Australia

Happy Shopping.

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

For more wine reviews and related articles go to www.ontariowinereview.com, while there sign up for Michael's free bi-weekly newsletter.

Saturday October 1, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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 looks at Thanksgiving wines (THKS), wines that’ll make good additions to your cellar (CELL) or to start one, and some Syrah/Shiraz (SYSZ) wines make the scene.  As introduced last release I have made a few changes to the report: the addition of an “If You Can Afford It” section for expensive wines that are worth their price; I have removed the “red” and “white” labels in favour of just using colour to indicate type; and the Best Buy bargain section will just have ratings, no notes, if you’re a bargain hunter you’ll love these wines.

Argentina … 

Luigi Bosca 2008 Single Vineyard Malbec ($21.95 - #0074922) – plenty of rich juicy fruit. (****) - CELL

Nieto Senetiner 2008 Don Nicanor ($16.95 - #0640938) – cedar, blackberry with spiced-vanilla backing. (*** ½+)

Australia … 

D’Arenberg 2009 The Money Spider ($19.95 - #0656710) – quite a flavourful white with pear and lime zest notes. (*** ½)

Barossa Valley Estate 2008 Ebenezer Shiraz ($39.95 - #0971705) – chocolate-cherry smells and flavours with a lovely smooth mouthfeel. (**** ½) - SYSZ

Mitolo 2008 GAM Shiraz ($43.95 - #0596031) – rich flavours, a dark fruit dream on the nose with a red fruited raspberry-strawberry jam finish. (****+) - SYSZ

Mollydooker 2009 The Maitre D’ Cabernet Sauvignon ($34.95 - #0246629) – a fun label with big fruit and lots of alcohol yet with some nice spiced notes on the finish. (****+) - CELL

Canada …

(British Columbia)

Lulu Island 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0254219) – smooth easy drinking Cab with a sweet blackberry middle. (*** ½+)

(Ontario)

Stoney Ridge 2009 Cranberry Wine ($16.95 - #0392191) – sweet and tart at the same time, they used to put a little apple juice in it to lighten it up a bit, I say they are still doing it. (*** ½)

Henry of Pelham 2009 Family Tree White ($17.95 - #0251116) - click for full review

(Quebec)

Pomme de Glace Original Ice Cider 2008 ($23.95/375ml - #0259275) – spiced apple with vanilla, this is what Quebec does best. (****)

Chile …

Perez Cruz 2009 Limited Edition Malbec ($19.95 - #0670547) – minty goodness with cream de cassis mixed in. (****+)

Perez Cruz 2009 Limited Edition Syrah ($19.95 - #0589812) – nice wine that’s easy on the palate. (*** ½) - SYSZ

Sol de Andes 2009 Reserva Chardonnay ($13.95 - #0254334) – fresh peaches coated in creamy vanilla. (*** ½)

France … 

Chateau Doisy-Vedrines 2007 Sauternes ($29.00 / 375ml - #0098418) – there are three French dessert wines in this release and this is the one you should be picking up, there’s a little spice around the sweetness that makes this one the go to sweetie. (****+)

(Beaujolais)

Chateau de Bellevue 2009 Morgon ($19.95 - #0240564) – spicy blackberry and some old leather. (*** ½+)

(Burgundy)

Domaine Bouchard Pere & Fils 2008 Beaune du Chateau 1er Cru ($36.95 - #0901199) – nice cherry fruit with good acid for balance. (*** ½+) – CELL

Chateau de la Saule 2009 Montagny 1er Cru ($24.95 - #0241273) – this is a good flavoured Chardonnay from the region that gets our gums a flappin’ about the grape. (*** ½)

(Loire)

Donatien Bahuaud 2008 Les Grands Mortiers Vouvray ($15.95 - #0140889) – there’s a touch of sweet honey amongst the sweet fruit flavours and hint of vanilla … but you have to like ‘em sweet cause this one is. (*** ½+)

Henri Bourgeois 2009 La Porte du Caillou Sancerre ($23.95 - #0244806) – I dug the flintyness amongst the citrus here, plus there is a nice weight to this wine. (****)

(Midi)

Lionel Osmin & Cie 2009 Malbec ($15.95 - #0247544) – the colour of this wine made me think of darkness on the edge of town and the flavours go on to match with lots of dark fruit and a rough leathery feeling on the tongue. (****)

(Rhone)

Domaine la Milliere 2008 Vieilles Vignes Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($47.95 - #0063396) – big flavour, big fruit, big tannins; you see where I'm going. (****) - CELL 

Germany …

Schloss Reinhartshausen 2002 Riesling Spatlese ($19.95 - #0129858) – floral, peach and mineral notes with a nice mix of sweetness and acidity that really grabs the tongue. (****) – CELL

Italy …

(Piedmont)

Marchesi di Barolo 2005 Barolo ($34.95 - #0168179) – lots to offer here with mocha, strawberry, dried raspberry and mucho tannins. (****) - CELL

(Veneto)

Pra 209 Soave Classico ($17.95 - #0074534) – decent citrus with hints of peach on the mid-palate. (*** ½)

New Zealand … 

Babich 2010 Black Label Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0009142) – very New Zealand in style but it shows some restraint. (*** ½+)

Wild Rock 2008 Gravel Pit Red ($17.95 - #0163600) – meaty with dark berries. (*** ½+)

Portugal …

Quinta de Gomariz 2010 Grande Eschola Vinho Verde ($14.95 - #0245902) – pretty wine which is dominated by grapefruit cocktail flavours. (*** ½)

Quinta da Rigodeira 2005 Baga ($13.95 - #0219121) – nice little black fruited number yet with a cheery feel; I’ve had smoother wines made from the Baga grape but this is a nice introduction if you’ve never had any before. (*** ½)

South Africa ...

Fleur du Cap 2008 Noble Late Harvest ($20.95 / 375ml - #0173781) – this is just an outstanding wine that you must have around this holiday season for dessert; flavours reminiscent of honey smothered apricots and rum soaked pears – run to the LCBO and get some before your neighbour buys it all. (*****)

Goats do Roam 2009 The Goatfather ($14.95 - #0011072) – a fun-ly named wine with a little of that South African funk on the nose and palate: leather and gamy dark berries, there’s also a little bit of grit on the tongue.  Give it a couple of years to mellow. (*** ½+)

Post House 2008 Penny Black ($19.95 - #0148619) – there’s a sweetness to this fruit along with mocha, coffee and leather. (****)

United States … 

(California)

Fess Parker 2007 The Big Easy Syrah ($34.95 - #0083212) – this one should be called the Big and Easy Syrah, the highlight: chocolate. (****) – SYSZ

Francis Coppola 2009 Diamond Collection Ivory Label Cabernet Sauvignon ($23.95 - #0521021) – dark fruit, cassis and spiced strawberry; very easy to drink. (*** ½+)

Frank Family 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($46.95 - #02446900) – black fruited and spicy. (****+)

Hahn 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #0057877) – succulent and smooth with lovely black fruit and a sweet licorice finish; all at a decent price. (****+)

JC Cellars 2006 Rockpile Vineyard Haley Syrah ($64.95 - #0236083) – I can hope for a good price on this one because at my tasting there were no prices marked on this wine; it’s really fruity, wrongly named as Syrah, but it’s rightly delicious; if $34 or under it’s a must buy, over $35 think on it. (****+) [ed note. - still delicious, just quite pricey] – SYSZ

Robert Mondavi 2008 Pinot Noir ($29.95 - #04438697) – nice blueberry, blackberry and black cherry with some spiced notes, subsequent sips show off even more spice. (****)

Stags’ Leap Winery 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #0996405) – quite a weighty Cab that grabs you by the tongue and won’t let go. (****+)

Iron Horse 2007 Wedding Cuvee ($21.95 - #0707836) – this is a pretty little something for your sweetie: strawberry, lime and kiwi greet the nose with a drier than expect mouth-feel doling out citrus and raspberry notes ... by the way, it's a bubbly. (****+)

Kendall-Jackson 2009 Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay ($19.95 - #0369686) – quite the easy drinking Chardonnay with things you want from your Cali-Chard mainly vanilla and apple puree at a decent price. (*** ½+)

Treana 2008 White Viognier/Marsanne ($29.95 - #0011247) – a tropical fruit nose with a lush big palate full of vanilla, spice and tropical fruit along with a hint of melon rind. (****+)

(Oregon)

Elk Cove Vineyards 2008 Pinot Noir ($36.95 - #36.95) – black cherry with cinnamon spice. (*** ½+) - THX

If You Can Afford It (they’re pricey but worth it) …

Elderton 2007 Command Single Vineyard Shiraz ($93.95 - #0716142) - **** ½ … SYSZ 

Dow’s 1997 Vintage Port ($84.95 - #0546788) – CELL

Tenuta dell’Ornellaia 2008 Ornellaia ($184.95 - #0722470)

Best Buys (wine that over delivers for its price) …

Hickinbotham 2009 Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon ($15.95 - #0159632) - *** ½

Thorn-Clarke 2009 Terra Barossa Shiraz ($16.95 - #0595306) - ****+

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on October 1, 2011:

Hahn 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #0057877) – United States

Perez Cruz 2009 Limited Edition Malbec ($19.95 - #0670547) – Chile

Fleur du Cap 2008 Noble Late Harvest ($20.95 / 375ml - #0173781) - South Africa

Happy Shopping.

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

For more wine reviews and related articles go to www.ontariowinereview.com, while there sign up for Michael's free bi-weekly newsletter.

Saturday September 17, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version

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 has a Pinot Noir throw-down between Oregon and France (PNTD) and a small New Zealand (NZ) focus in honour of the world cup.  The main focus is Bordeaux 2008 (BORD) … I have also made a few changes to the report: the addition of an “If You Can Afford It” section for expensive wines that are worth their price; I have removed the “red” and “white” labels in favour of just using colour to indicate type; and the Best Buy bargain section will just have ratings, no notes, if you’re a bargain hunter you’ll love these wines.

Argentina …

Santa Ana 2010 La Mascota Chardonnay ($14.95 - #0126870) – this is a decent Chardonnay that keeps its fruit along with some nice vanilla and caramel note. (*** ½)

Finca Flichman 2007 Paisaje de Barrancas ($17.95 - #0017129) – nice blend with chocolate, vanilla and spice notes, juicy dark fruit, the hint of tannins gives the finish some character. (****)

Australia … 

D’Arenberg 2008 The Custodian ($19.95 - #0713040) – key to this one is the big raspberry finish. (*** ½+)

Jip Jip Rocks 2009 Shiraz ($16.95 - #0673897) – has the pepper, spice and dark fruit you’ve come to expect from this Down Under style of Shiraz. (*** ½+)

Magpie 2008 The Schnell Shiraz/ Grenache ($19.95 - #0047662) – juicy, vanilla and raspberry with a touch of white pepper. (*** ½+)

Two Hands 2008 Bella’s Garden Shiraz ($63.95 - #0636407) – so dark you’d swear you couild paint with it, big alcohol (15.8%) so keep away from open flames, yet so delicious. (****+)

Two Hands 2009 Yesterday’s Hero Grenache ($31.95 - #0009506) – super sweet raspberry with cherry strawberry and spice. (****)

Austria …

Rabl 2009 Reserve Vinum Optimum Gruner Veltliner ($19.95 - #0216473) – green bean, ped pod and grapefruit pith, I swear its yummy. (**** +)

Chile …

Cartagena 2009 Sauvignon Blanc ($15.95 - #0246405) – more tropical but still manages to keep its grassiness. (*** ½)

France … 

(Bordeaux)

Chateau Beauregard 2008 ($57.95 - #0249003) – smells of coffee and chocolate, call it mocha; taste brings out the mocha wrapped dark fruit … nice delivery. (****) - BORD

Chateau des Moines 2008 ($22.95 - #0206789) – wood and dark fruit mix with good flavour and tannins. (*** ½+) – BORD

Chateau Fayan 2008 ($18.95 - #0243295) – already starting to throw sediment with pomegranate, strawberry, wood smoke and tannins with an earthy finish. (*** ½+) - BORD

Chateau des Moines 2008 ($22.95 - #0206789) – wood and dark fruit mix with good flavour and tannins. (*** ½+) - BORD

Chateau Haut Bergey 2008 ($44.95 - #0234799) – has a real richness of flavour and spice. (****) - BORD

Chateau Meyney 2008 ($47.95 - #0245811) – big structure with hard tannins but with fruit beginning to emerge. (*** ½+) – BORD 

Chateau Pontet Chappaz 2008 ($39.95 - #0243956) – smooth, supple and enjoyable, though there is some longevity here, say 5+ years. (*** ½+) - BORD 

Chateau Semonlon 2008 ($17.95 - #0244475) – smooth and accessible. (*** ½) - BORD 

Chateau St. Georges 2008 ($29.95 - #0960310) – sweet fruit nose with a palate that is quite juicy though grit from the tannins comes on subsequent sips. (****) - BORD

(Burgundy)

Domaine Besancenot 2008 Beaune-Bressandes 1er Cru ($32.95 - #0166181) – sour cherry and spice with a hint of earth. (*** ½) - PNTD 

Maison Roche de Bellene 2009 Vieilles Vignes Gevrey-Chambertin ($47.95 - #0240424) – at the high end of the Pinot world is where the French have all the finesse and goods; gritty, dark berries, spiced cedar and herbs; a Pinot worth its price. (**** +) – PNTD 

Vincent  de la Remondiere Cuvee Reserve Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($18.95 - #0226274) – crisp yet creamy, nice little bubbly here. (*** ½+)

(Champagne)

Marc Hebrart Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne ($41.95 - #0231217) – biscuity with almond biscotti notes and hazelnut cream to top it off. (*** ½)

(Rhone)

Domaine Grand Veneur 2009 Clos de Sixte Lirac ($23.95 - #0076349) – rich plum, black cherry, chocolate, and mocha; lovely and delicious. (****+)

Germany …

Schloss Schonborn Klaus Riesling Kabinett 2009 ($18.95 - #0239905) – mineral, peach and apple; hits all the right notes. (*** ½)

Italy …

(Tuscany)

Lamole di Lamole Riserva Chianti Classico 2007 ($36.95 - #0231241) – sweet fruit nose follows onto the palate, not your usual rustic Chianti, this one tastes modern and fresh. (****)

New Zealand … 

Millton 2009 Crazy by Nature Dry Flint Chenin Blanc ($18.95 - #0214429) – well named wine with its flinty and tropical notes that play off each other leading to a slightly honeyed finish. (*** ½+)

Churton 2008 Pinot Noir ($36.95 - #0237164) – very pretty on both the nose and palate, lots of black and sour cherry notes with a touch of the herbal. (****) - NZ

Portugal …

Quinta de Santa Eufemia Fine White Port ($13.95 - #0223867) – toasted nuts and caramel with ust the right amount of spice and acidity. (*** ½+)

Spain …

Torres Floralis Moscatel Oro ($16.95/500ml - #0642173) – absolutely stunning with spiced orange peel, cinnamon and bosc pear with a slight poaching, sweetness is perfectly balanced with acidity; a lovely after dinner sipper. (**** ½+)

Arrocal 2008 ($16.95 - #0067868) – killer bottle for $17; vanilla, mocha, kirsch notes, juicy and delicious with hints of leather, licorice that keep things in balance. (**** ½)

Lan Gran Reserva 2003 ($26.95 - #0928622) – 8 years old and drinking well right now; smooth with spice and red berries, good long finish. (****+) 

United States … 

(California)

A By Acacia 2008 Pinot Noir ($16.95 - #0118927) – sweet cherry with nice herbs, juicy but still with enough dryness; good beginners Pinot. (*** ½)

Grgich Hills Estate 2007 Merlot ($49.95 - #0020313) – plum, blueberry and chocolate, quite juicy in the mouth. (****)

Seghesio 2009 Home Ranch Zinfandel ($49.95 - #0070391) – plum, vanilla, strawberry, cherry and cola, this is always a well made yet playful Zin which finishes with spice and finesse. (**** ½)

(Oregon)

Clawson Creek 2008 Angela Pinot Noir ($49.95 - #0254177) – big fruit almost juicy, with dark cherry and a touch of grit. (*** ½) - PNTD

Red Shot Lane 2009 Pinot Noir ($18.95 - #0242560) – nice bite from the sour cherry, but there is also some sweet cherry and a nice hint of spice, easy to drink Pinot at a good price, chill and enjoy. (****) - PNTD

If You Can Afford It (they’re pricey but worth it) …

Kistler 2009 Les Noisetiers Chardonnay ($64.95 - #0251223) - ****

Best Buys (wine that over delivers for its price) …

Michel Torino 2009 Don David Reserve Malbec ($12.95 - #0064998) - *** ½+

Sister’s Run 2009 Gomersol Cabernet Sauvignon ($15.95 - #0222026) - *** ½+

Thorn-Clarke 2008 Terra Barossa Shiraz/Cabernet/Petit Verdot ($14.95 - #0684357) - ****

Mount Riley 2010 Sauvignon Blanc ($15.95 - #0981670) - ****

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on September 17, 2011:

Finca Flichman 2007 Paisaje de Barrancas ($17.95 - #0017129) - Argentina

Torres Floralis Moscatel Oro ($16.95/500ml - #0642173) - Spain 

Arrocal 2008 ($16.95 - #0067868) - Spain

Happy Shopping.

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

For more wine reviews and related articles go to www.ontariowinereview.com, while there sign up for Michael's free bi-weekly newsletter.