Saturday January 4, 2014 - 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

Key:  Wine colour indicators - Red are red wines, Yellow are whites, etc.

The Foci … Smart Buys (SB)

The Skinny … This is the annual LCBO Crap-a-Thon, the traditional dumping ground for wines that didn’t make it through the rest of the year – there are some good values to be had for decent prices, and not all of them are part of the focus; which makes me wonder: what constitutes a “Smart Buy”?

Argentina …

Valle Las Acequias Oak Malbec 2007 ($16.95 - #138412) – slight bit of everything here: spice, red and dark fruit, vanilla and some toasted notes. (*** ½+) – SB

Yauquen 2012 Bonarda ($14.95 - #360115) – soft and juicy, worth trying if you’ve never had Bonarda before. (*** ½+)

Australia …

Domaine Tournon Mathilda Shiraz 2011 ($19.95 - #327395) – Shiraz by way of the Rhone valley, more pepper and smoked meat than jammy ripe fruit.  (****) – SB

Magpie Estate 2009 The Call Bag ($21.95 - #203067) vanilla, spiced-plum and raspberry; quite tasty. (****)

Austria …

Rabl 2011 Kittmanberg Gruner Veltliner ($14.95 - #346007) – pea pod and sweet lemon citrus with a touch of something stony and even a little melon rind.  (*** ½+)

Canada (Ontario) … click on wine name for full review

13th Street 2012 Merlot ($17.95 - #270504)

Flat Rock 2012 Riesling ($16.95 - #043281) - SB

Chile …

Casas del Bosque 2012 Reserva Sauvignon Blanc ($13.95 - #374717) – tropically tinged with plenty of grassy notes and a long finish. (*** ½+)

Estampa 2010 Assemblage Reserve Syrah/Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot ($14.95 - #350082) – hello mint, dark fruit and chocolate; hello Chile.  (****)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Caronne Ste. Gemme 2009 ($25.85 - #191460) – nice coffee bean nose leads to a mocha, vanilla, spice and dark fruited palate; nice balance of acidity and tannins. (****)

Chateau Haut Beyzac Cuvee O’Peyrat 2009 ($22.95 - #362020) – pleasant vanilla and cinnamon mixes with mocha and dark fruit. (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Maison Roche de Bellene 2011 Cuvee Reserve Bourgogne Pinot Noir ($17.95 - #299859) – nice spice, earthy, sour cherry and strawberry; nice Pinot Noir especially for the price. (****+)

France (Loire) …

Domaine Bonnard 2012 Sancerre ($22.95 - #140525) – elements of grass, gooseberry and stony; very pleasant.  (*** ½+)

Domaine Jacky Marteau 2012 Sauvignon Touraine ($13.95 - #745349) – green pear, lime skin and citrus pith. (*** ½+)

France (Midi) …

Chateau La Bastide 2010 ($13.95 - #360487) – dark fruit and gentle spice mix. (*** ½+)

Domaine de l’Arjolle 2011 Z de L’Arjolle Zinfandel ($19.95 - #346072) – yes, a Zinfandel from France:  smoky, tar, vanilla, blackberry, well-balanced, smooth and supple, really interesting and quite complex definitely one for the curious. (****)

France (Rhone) …

Pierre Amadieu 2011 La Grangeliere Vacqueyras ($21.95 - #076398) – raspberry and cassis on the palate with a nice cherry presence and acid kick. (****) – SB

Germany …

Bischofliche Weinguter Trier Dom Riesling 2011 ($16.95 - #359596) – has the right mix of stony talc, apple and peach pits with nice acidity for balance. (****) - SB

Italy (Piedmont) …

La Pieve 2009 Barolo ($29.95 - #213132) – sweet strawberry nose, gentle herbs and sweet dried fruit, good acidity and hints of tannin. (****) - SB

Italy (Sicily) …

Cusumano 2010 Noa ($19.95 - #109512) – rich black fruit with touches of cocoa, chocolate-mocha on the palate, a little vanilla and leather; quite robust. (****) – SB

Italy (Tuscany) …

Geografico Montegiachi Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 ($24.95 - #962142) – rustic and smoky, earthy, herbal and good tannins backbone. (*** ½+)

New Zealand …

Clifford Bay 2011 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #309500) – lifted fruit with good acidity and an intense finish. (****)

Portugal …

Aguia Moura em Vinhas Velhas Reserva Tinto 2008 ($16.95 - #354738) – soft, supple and juicy with nice black cherry and plum. (****)

Calem Special Reserve Tawny Port ($17.95 - #349365) – spiced orange peel and hazelnuts: nutty, spicy with good acidity and orange-caramel on the finish. (****)

Spain …

Adaro 2009 ($29.95 - #345686) – chocolaty notes that make the wine quite appealing. (*** ½+)

Olivares Altos de la Hoya Monastrell 2011 ($13.95 - #163154) – raspberry and plum with intermingling of cherry; a real pleasant sipper. (*** ½+)

United States (California) …

Beaulieu Vineyard 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($34.95 - #203828) – plenty of chocolate and blackberry with black cherry and spice. (****)

Ca’Momi 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($21.95 - #315002) – mocha and chocolate, cassis and vanilla; interesting and atypical but tasty and worth it. (****) - SB

Cline 2012 Viognier ($17.95 - #128421) – melon and pineapple with hints of peach skin and some strong ginger notes. (*** ½+)

Kendall-Jackson 2010 Avant Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #353060) – big hit of cherry and ripe blackberry greet the nose and then follow on the palate. (****)

Ravenswood 2011 Vintners Blend Petite Sirah ($18.95 - #161554) – brambly and blackberry with black cherry and a nice touch of peppered-plums. (*** ½+)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – January 4, 2014 …

Bischofliche Weinguter Trier Dom Riesling 2011 ($16.95 - #359596) – Germany

Ca’Momi 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($21.95 - #315002) – United States

Domaine de l’Arjolle 2011 Z de L’Arjolle Zinfandel ($19.95 - #346072) - France

Maison Roche de Bellene 2011 Cuvee Reserve Bourgogne Pinot Noir ($17.95 - #299859) - France

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.

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves January 4 & 18, 2014

“ISD”s are In-Store Discoveries, these are wines that seem to just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet.  Finally the LCBO has allowed the media the opportunity to taste and review these wines.

Between the two dates 15 wines are being released, here are scores for 10 of them.

Three-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Clos Floridene Blanc 2010 ($32.85 - #254862) … Bordeaux, France (01/04)
Chevalier de Lascombes 2010 ($49.85 - #257014) … Bordeaux, France (01/04)
J.L. Chave Selection Offerus Saint-Joseph ($33.95 - #359109) ... Rhone, France (01/04)
Massimo Rivetti Froi Reserva Barbaresco ($43.95 - #122713) ... Piedmont, Italy (01/18)

Four Star Wines (****) …
Domaine des Baumard 2010 Clos de Saint Yves Savennieres ($31.95 - #016717) ... Loire, France (01/04)
Chateau Poujeaux ($52.85 - #257758) … Bordeaux, France (01/04)
Domaine de Chevalier 2010 ($124.85 - #259374) … Bordeaux, France (01/04)
Clos Teddi Patrimonio Tradition 2011 ($23.95 - #365304) … Corsica, France (01/18)

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Chateau Raymond-Lafon 2009 ($34.85 - #195867) … Bordeaux, France (01/04)
Mirafiore Paiagallo Barolo 2008 ($49.95 - #348284) … Piedmont, Italy (01/18)

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 7, 2013 - 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

Key:  Wine colour indicators - Red are red wines, Yellow are whites, etc.

The Foci … Sparkling wine (FIZZ) and “Holiday Gathering” wine (HG)

The Skinny … Never understood these foci, I mean I get the sparkling but what are the criteria for Holiday Gathering wines, it seems so arbitrary.  Anyway, this is the last Vintages release of the year, there are some pretty good wines in the release, but there is also some surprising duds – you would think at this time of year the board would pull out all the stops.

Argentina …

Callejon del Crimen 2008 Gran Reserva Malbec ($22.95 - #357467) – black cherry and spiced cocoa, this one shows something interesting in a Malbec. (*** ½+)

Finca Flichman 2010 Paisaje de Barrancas ($17.95 - #17129) – nice price for something smooth and tasty with dark berries and slick peppery goodness. (*** ½+)

Pascual Toso Barrancas Vineyards 2010 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #83337) – red fruit dominate, a nice sipper. (*** ½+) - HG

Australia …

Ben Glaetzer 2012 Bishop Shiraz ($39.95 - #627869) – dark, sweet blackberry and black cherry with a hit of vanilla on the finish. (****)

Saltram 2010 Mamre Brook Shiraz ($26.95 - #32227) – intensity of blackberry and chocolate with a touch of vanilla-wood on the finish with hearty tannins. (*** ½+) – HG

Small Gully 2009 The Formula Robert’s Shiraz ($18.95 - #142935) – just what the doctor ordered with lots of that sweet Aussie fruit. (*** ½+)

Austria …

Brundlmayer 2012 Kamptaler Terrassen Gruner Veltliner ($21.95 - #979708) – pea pod and grapefruit all with racy acidity. (*** ½+)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Burrowing Owl 2010 Meritage ($59.95 - #343038) – this one shows some real finesse and elegance, there is nothing over-powering but nothing takes away either: fruit with well-balanced oak and good acidity this wine is dark, brooding and delicious. (**** ½)

Sperling Vineyards 2011 Old Vines Riesling ($34.95 - #361204) – apple and a touch of lemonade and peach pit with just the right amount of mineral and acidity on the finish. (****)

Canada (Ontario) … click on wine name for full review

Cave Spring 2009 Estate Bottled Pinot Noir ($34.95 - #246561) - *** ½+

Cave Spring 2008 Estate Cabernet Franc ($24.95 - #72751) - *** ½+

Featherstone 2011 Canadian Oak Chardonnay ($21.95 - #149302) - ****

Flat Rock Cellars 2008 Riddled Sparkling Wine ($24.95 - #187377) – **** (FIZZ)

Henry of Pelham 2009 Estate Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #268391) - ****

Inniskillin 2012 Winemaker’s Series Montague Vineyard Chardonnay ($24.95 - #586347) - *** ½+ (HG)

Chile …

Vina Casablanca 2010 El Bosque Carmenere ($15.95 - #199836) – big minty nose with white pepper, blackberry, black cherry, and a nice toastiness; good value and long finish. (****) - HG

France (Alsace) …

Andre Blanck et ses Fils 2012 Clos Schwendi Pinot Gris ($18.95 - #686311) – pleasant sweet notes, very easy drinking with good acidity on finish to balance the sweetness. (*** ½+) – HG

Joseph Cattin 2011 Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #224626) – spicy notes on a gentle palate with lots of floral and perfumed notes; doesn’t come off too sweet and there’s a touch of apricot on the mid-palate. (****)

France (Beaujolais) …

Laurent Gauthier 2011 Grand Cras Vieilles Morgon ($17.95 - #279059) – delicious and delightful, serious and complex, lots of wild cherry and white pepper with and intense nose and palate. (****+) - HG

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Clement Saint-Jean 2010 ($22.95 - #348771) – smooth with drying tannins, rich blackberry and cassis with cedary-cinnamon backing. (*** ½+) – HG

Chateau Le Conseiller 2009 ($23.85 - #191130) – smooth with blueberry skin and mocha. (****)

France (Burgundy) …

Charles Duret Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($18.95 - #185694) – buttered toast complete with the crusts left on and all balanced with that nice acidity. (*** ½+) – FIZZ

Domaine Jean-Pierre Seve 2011 Terroir Pouilly-Fuisse ($26.95 - #681056) – nice lemon-lime notes along with hay and green apple. (*** ½+)

France (Midi) …

Domaine des Trois Orris Lhusanes 2009 ($19.95 - #353515) – lovely bit of red and black fruit; this one is all fruit all the time. (*** ½+)

France (Rhone) …

Domaine Beau Mistral 2010 Vieilles Vignes Rasteau Cotes du Rhone Villages ($22.95 - #343574) – dark fruited, intense cocoa and spice with tobacco on the finish. (*** ½+) – HG

Domaine Chante Cigale Tradition Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2010 ($41.95 - #194993) – supple and almost sweet fruited, a real pleasure. (****+)

Domaine Mucyn 2010 Saint Joseph ($28.95 - #358614) – smoky, black cherry and spice. (*** ½+)

La Ferme du Mont 2010 Cotes Jugunda Gigondas ($29.95 – #354118) – nice spiced blackberry, dark cherry, vanilla, currants and spice. (****)

Les Vignerons de Visan 2011 Visan Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($15.95 - #179234) – robust red fruit, a little chalky, but with lovely fruit; good value for everyday drinking. (****)

Italy (Abruzzo) …

Villa Medoro 2009 Rosso del Duca Montepulciano D’Abruzzo ($18.95 - #357160) – gentle of fruit yet dark in nature with spiced raspberry and peppered plums. (****) - HG

Italy (Alto Adige / Trentino) …

Ferrari Brut ($25.95 - #352153) – nice bit of fizz here drier than other Italian bubbles in this release with more focus on acidity and breadiness. (****) - FIZZ

Italy (Piedmont) …

Beni di Batasiolo 2010 Langhe Rosso ($16.95 - #981019) – wood, smoke and cherry fruit with hints of tobacco on the dry finish. (*** ½+)

Italy (Tuscany) …

La Vite Lucente 2011 ($34.95 - #747030) – coffee, blueberry and chocolate with a nice plummy mid-palate. (****+)

Le Difese 2011 ($27.95 - #147876) – plenty of spiced red and black fruit with currants and black cherry taking charge amongst the cinnamon and pepper. (****+) – HG

Lornado 2009 Le Bandite Chianti Classico Riserva ($19.95 - #230672) – rustic tannins with heft and cherry spiced plum. (*** ½+) - HG

Rocca delle Macie 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva ($21.95 - #930966) – mixes rustic charm with some juicy fruit and dry tannins. (*** ½+)

Italy (Veneto) …

Allegrini 2010 Palazzo Della Torre ($24.95 - #672931) – raspberry and cherry with chocolate with ripe plum; very full fruited. (****)

Luigi Righetti Campolieti Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2011 ($17.95 - #695890) – dark chocolate, cherry, plum and spice. (****) – HG

Perlage Canah 2012 Brut Prosecco Superiore Conegliano Valdobbiadene ($20.95 - #358390) – nice apple and lemon with mac apple sweetness. (*** ½) - FIZZ

New Zealand …

No. 1 Family Estate Cuvee No. 1 Blanc de Blancs ($34.95 - #56358) – lots of biting acidity and plenty of apple and toasty character with hints of almondine. (****+) - FIZZ

Portugal …

Churchill’s Estates 2009 Touriga Nacional ($30.95 - #351643) – nice rich dark fruit with a chocolate finish and linger. (****+)

Newman’s Celebrated Port ($15.95 - #134908) – sweet cherries abound with a pleasant, easy drinking finish.  (*** ½+)

South Africa …

KWV 2010 The Mentors Canvas ($24.95 - #348839) – nice mix of chocolate and vanilla with plum, lots of white pepper and a good finish. (****)

Pecan Stream 2012 Chenin Blanc ($14.95 - #34512) – lanolin and grapefruit rind with nice acidity for balance. (*** ½+)

Simonsig 2011 Kaapse Vonkel Brut Classique ($19.95 - #342758) – peach, apple and toasty with good acidity for balance. (*** ½+) - FIZZ

Spain …

Juan Gil 2012 White Label de Cepas Viejas Monastrell ($15.95 - #13656) – lots and lots of raspberry and cherry, plum, hints of vanilla and a touch of floral; good value. (*** ½+)

Valsacro Dioro 2005 ($32.95 - #345694) – blackberry, smoke, vanilla and plum with hints of chocolate/mocha. (****)

United States (California) …

Belle Glos 2012 Meiomi Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #130138) – rich cherry fruit, silky smooth and easy drinking, there’s also a nice chalkiness to the finish; but seriously, it’s hard to believe this is Pinot. (****) – HG

Bonny Doon 2008 Le Cigare Volant ($48.95 - #975847) – smoky with white pepper, plum, blackberry and floral; really supple tannins. (****+)

Cannonball 2011 Merlot ($22.95 - #342824) – juicy with sweet blueberry and chocolate. (*** ½+)

Chandon Rosé ($32.95 - #56341) – pretty and delicate with hits of raspberry and citrus and a nice biscuity finish; there’s also strawberry jam and apple nuances but this one is not sweet the acid kicks in at the right time. (****) – FIZZ

Decoy 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($31.95 - #186171) – touched with cedar and vanilla along with intense cherry and blackberry. (*** ½+) – HG

Frei Brothers 2011 Reserve Zinfandel ($24.95 - #281758) – plum and vanilla are smeared all over this with nice cherry and chocolate; comes off a little sweet. (*** ½+)

Mer Soleil 2010 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay ($34.95 - #958975) – butterscotch, toffee and vanilla; big oak, sweet fruit. (*** ½+) - HG

If You Can Afford It – wines worth their high price …

Chateau Barde-Haut 2009 ($57.95 - #197244) – Bordeaux - ****+

Chateau La Confession 2009 ($57.85 - #198564) – Bordeaux - ****+

Citation 2003 Pinot Noir ($59.95 - #677146) – Oregon - *** ½+

Henriot Souverain Brut Champagne ($59.95 - #959643) – Champagne - ****+ (FIZZ)

Le Vieux Donjon 2011 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($57.95 - #700922) – Rhone - ****

Michele Castellani 2008 Cinque Stelle Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($53.95 - #75127) – Veneto - **** (HG)

Shafer 2011 Merlot ($67.95 - #346262) – California - ****

Stag’s Leap Winery 2010 Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.95 - #708982) – California - **** (HG)

Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin 2004 Vintage Rosé ($97.99 - #588475) – Champagne - **** (FIZZ)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – December 7, 2013 …

Laurent Gauthier 2011 Grand Cras Vieilles Morgon ($17.95 - #279059) – Beaujolais, France

Les Vignerons de Visan 2011 Visan Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($15.95 - #179234) – Rhone, France

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.

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves December 7, 2013

“ISD”s are In-Store Discoveries, these are wines that seem to just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet.  Finally the LCBO has allowed the media the opportunity to taste and review these wines.

22 wines are being released, here are scores for 13 of them.

Three-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …

Chassagne-Montrachet Vide Bourse 1er Cru 2010 ($101.95 - #344887) ... Burgundy, France

Domaine D’Ardhuy 2010 Clos du Roi Grand Cru Corton ($91.95 - #343723) ... Burgundy, France

Gunther Steinmetz 2010 Veldenzer Grafschafter Sonnenberg Riesling Spatlese ($22.95 - #359604) ... Germany

Justino’s 10 Years Old Malvasia Madeira ($42.95 - #349373) … Portugal

Sperling Vineyards 2008 Brut Sparkling ($39.95 - #361436) … British Columbia, Canada

St. Hallett 2004 Blackwell Shiraz ($39.95 - #535104) ... Australia

Four Star Wines (****) …

Cakebread 2009 Benchland Select Cabernet Sauvignon ($138.95 - #924175) … California, USA
Emilio Moro 2009 Malleolus ($45.95 - #236141) … Spain
Heitz Cellar 2007 Trailside Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($119.95 - #992438) … California, USA

Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne ($98.95 - #62984) ... Champagne, France

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
13th Street 2006 Grande Cuvee Blanc de Noirs ($59.95 - #364299) … Ontario, Canada
Wolf Blass 2008 Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz/Malbec ($99.95 - #960468) … Shiraz

Four- and-a-Half Star Wines (****+) …
Tawse 2010 David’s Block Merlot ($49.95 - #111971) … Ontario, Canada

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 23, 2013 - 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

Key:  Wine colour indicators - Red are red wines, Yellow are whites, etc.

The Foci … Our Finest (FINE) and Premium Spirits (not tasted)
The Skinny … Lots of expensive wines are part of the ‘Our Finest’ collection released this time out, bargain wines are few and far between this time of year.  If you’re looking for a few bargains take a look at the What I’m Lining Up For section.

Argentina …
Mendel 2010 Malbec ($24.95 - #108225) – soft and juicy with blackberry and a brambly consistency. (*** ½+)
Susana Balbo 2011 Signature Malbec ($19.95 - #79798) – milk chocolate and mint with hints of mineral and a nice smokiness; finish is black cherry with a strong mocha latte finish. (****)

Canada (Ontario) …
Bachelder 2011 Lowrey Vineyard Pinot Noir ($44.95 - #361816) - **** ½
Creekside 2010 Broken Press Reserve Syrah ($39.95 - #202127) - *** ½+ (FINE)
Daniel Lenko 2010 Old Vines Merlot ($34.95 - #75622) - ****
Featherstone 2012 Black Sheep Riesling ($16.95 - #80234) - **** ½

Flat Rock 2011 Gravity Pinot Noir ($29.95 - #001560) - *** 1/2+
Hidden Bench 2011 Estate Pinot Noir ($32.95 - #274753) - *** ½+
Palatine Hills 2010 Neufeld Vineyard Meritage ($29.95 - #361378) - ****+
Rosewood 2011 Pinot Noir ($21.95 - #112177) - *** ½+
Stratus 2010 Red ($44.20 - #131037) - **** (FINE)
Stratus 2010 White ($44.20 - #660704) - *** ½ (FINE)
Union 2007 Fortified “Forte” ($16.95 - #361758) - **** ½

Chile …
Koyle 2010 Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($15.95 - #256073) – pure minty blackberry, cassis and sweet blueberry. (*** ½+)
Santa Carolina 2010 Gran Reserva Chardonnay ($14.95 - #928580) – nice spiciness with juicy grilled pineapple. (*** ½+)

France (Alsace) …
Hauller Muenchberg 2011 Riesling ($21.95 - #360370) – peach, mineral and citrus, hints of pear and floral nuances with pleasant linger on the finish. (****)
Ruhlmann 2011 Vieilles Vignes Gewurztraminer ($19.95 - #982082) – soft and mellow with rose petal and a juiciness rather than spiciness along, with a nice hit of orange blossom. (*** ½+)
France (Beaujolais) …
Chateau du Chatelard 2011 Cuvee Les Vieux Granits Fleurie ($20.95 - #207886) – black cherry and white pepper; this one has some edginess. (****)
France (Bordeaux) …
Chateau D’Escurac 2009 ($24.95 - #191197) – there’s a welcoming sweetness of dark fruit. (*** ½+)
Chateau Potensac 2009 ($41.85 - #197780) – blackberry, black currant, spice, cinnamon, smoky and dark cocoa; finesse with good ageability. (****+)
Chateau Puy Blanquet 2009 ($25.85 - #192989) – sour black cherry and spice. (*** ½+)
Domaine de Viaud 2001 ($28.95 - #282475) – great chance to buy a Bordeaux wine without waiting to drink it: in other words it is pre-aged. (*** ½+)
France (Burgundy) …
Domaine Deliance Ruban Vert Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($19.95 - #355917) – crisp with nice minerality and acid bite, a touch of floral with nice citrus notes. (*** ½+)
La Chablisienne 2010 Montmains Chablis 1er Cru ($28.95 - #265090) – lime meringue character with elements of spice and baked apple. (*** ½+)
France (Rhone) …
Domaine Cros de Romet 2011 Cairanne Cotes du Rhone Villages ($23.95 - #42986) – fruit is forefront with raspberry, cherry and plum with hints of chocolate, white pepper and delicately spiced; this one is real pretty. (****+)

Italy (Marche) …
Costa Farnal Prosecco ($19.95 - #358382) – cute little bulbous bubbles that come off creamy with nice acidity and a pleasant apple and lemon note. (****)
Italy (Sardinia) …
Jerzu Chuerra Riserva Cannonau di Sardegna 2008 ($16.95 - #270272) – juicy red berries with an herbal quality; this one grows on you with raspberry and nice acidity and coffee-like finish, (****)
Italy (Tuscany) …
Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico 2010 ($23.95 - #003962) – juicy and easy drinking with sweet cherry and ripe strawberry. (****)
Rocca di Castagnoli 2009 Poggio A’Frati Chianti Classico Riserva ($29.95 - #023358) – raspberry and herbal quality with nice acidity. (*** ½+)
Tenuta San Guido 2011 Guidalberto ($49.95 - #72439) – dark fruit and chocolate with a clash of white pepper and nice blackberry intensity; long and lingering finish. (****)
Tenuta Sette Ponti 2010 Crognolo ($31.95 - #727636) – interestingly spicy with an intensity of dark fruit, cherry and full flavoured. (****)

Portugal …
Offley 10 Year Old Tawny Port ($25.95 - #297788) – love the complexity and layers in this tawny: orange zest, caramel and plenty of spice with good acidity on the finish. (****)
Ramos Pinto Collection 2009 ($29.95 - #341875) – comes off thin at first but has nice fruit and good acidity. (*** ½+)

Spain …
Domini de la Cartoixa Formiga de Galena 2009 ($25.95 - #344671) – never mind the ants on the label this one is far from pesky: big red berry fruit of cherry, strawberry and plum. (*** ½+)
Vega Sauco Adoremus Tinta de Toro ($19.95 - #26881) – smoky, vanilla spice and chocolate with lots of plum to drive it. (*** ½+)

United States (California) …
Belle Glos 2011 Las Alturas Vineyard Pinot Noir ($44.95 - #212076) – it’s a nice wine but it sure does not come across as Pinot with its plum, chocolate and black cherry. (****)
Beringer 2010 Merlot ($34.95 - #919647) – juicy, method and cherry with peppered-raspberry backing. (*** ½+)
J Lohr 2010 Hilltop Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.95 - #686584) – juicy, almost sweet fruited with mocha, blackberry and black cherry; this has lots going for it. (****)
Peachy Canyon 2011 Westside Zinfandel ($26.95 - #930644) – plenty to be excited about here: vanilla, cherry, plum, Christmas spice on the nose, along with cherry, blackberry jam and mocha highlight the palate. (****+)
Roederer Estate Brut Rosé ($36.95 - #479758) – peach and raspberry palate with mineral, lemon and biscotti on the nose. (****)


If You Can Afford It – wines worth their high price …
Ambullneo Vineyards 2007 Fang Blanc ($62.95 - #357541) – California, USA (****) – FINE
Antinori 2010 Solaia ($251.95 - #987586) – Tuscany, Italy (****+) – FINE
Catena Zapata 2009 Nicolas Catena Zapata ($109.95 - #662072) – Argentina (****+) – FINE
Chateau de Beaucastel 2011 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($89.95 - #711317) – Rhone, France (****+) – FINE
Dunn Vineyards 2009 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon ($109.95 - #193763) – California, USA (****) - FINE
Elderton 2009 Command Single Vineyard Shiraz ($89.95 - #716142) – Australia (****) – FINE
Krug Grande Cuvee Brut Champagne ($271.95 - #38562) – Champagne, France (****+) – FINE
Masi 2006 Campolongo di Torbe Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($99.95 - #548677) – Veneto, Italy (****+) – FINE
Masi 2006 Mazzano Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($99.95 - #215764) – Veneto, Italy (*** ½+) – FINE
Mollydooker 2010 Carnival of Love ($99.95 - #242743) – Australia (****) – FINE
Ornellaia 2010 ($189.95 - #722470) – Tuscany, Italy (****+) – FINE
Pahlmeyer 2009 Proprietary Red ($159.95 - #329375) – California, USA (**** ½) – FINE
Paul Hobbs 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($89.95 - #119065) – California, USA (****) – FINE
Quinta do Portal 2003 Vintage Port ($58.95 - #345041) – Portugal (****+) - FINE
Rodney Strong 2009 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.95 - #382325) – California, USA (*** ½+) – FINE
Silver Oak 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($134.95 - #936039) – California, USA (*** ½+) – FINE


What I’ll Be Lining Up For – November 23, 2013 …
Domaine Cros de Romet 2011 Cairanne Cotes du Rhone Villages ($23.95 - #42986) – France
Susana Balbo 2011 Signature Malbec ($19.95 - #79798) – Argentina

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.

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves November 23, 2013

“ISD”s are In-Store Discoveries, these are wines that seem to just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet.  Finally the LCBO has allowed the media the opportunity to taste and review these wines.

22 wines are being released, here are scores for 16 of them.

Three-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …

Delaforce 2000 Vintage Port ($67.95 - #344861) – Portugal

Domaine Wachau 2011 Achleiten Smaragd Riesling ($N/A - #351379) ... Austria

Domaine Bachey-Legros 2010 Vieilles Vignes Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot 1er Cru ($59.95 - #268508) ... Burgundy, France

Domaine du Petit Metris 2009 Clos de la Marche Savennieres ($N/A - #250571) ... Loire, France

Bollig-Lehnert 2011 Piesporter Goldtropfchen Riesling Spatlese ($23.95 - #284422) ... Germany

Duckhorn 2007 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon ($79.95 - #290791) ... California, USA

Gaja 2011 Sito Moresco ($58.95 - #976043) ... Piedmont, Italy

Alion 2009 ($84.95 - #199331) ... California, USA

Four Star Wines (****) …

Duckhorn 2009 The Discussion ($N/A - #297564) ... N/A

Louis Jadot 2010 Clos des Ursules Beaune 1er Cru ($N/A - #980938) ... Burgundy, France

Ca’Marcanda 2010 Promis ($47.95 - #745638) ... Tuscany, Italy

Fattoria le Pupille 2009 Saffredi ($94.95 - #74435) ... Tuscany, Italy

Quinta Vale D. Maria 2010 ($N/A - #341966) ... Portugal

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …

Domaine Louis Jadot 2010 Puligny-Montrachet Clos de la Garenne Duc de Magenta 1er Cru ($N/A - #124891) ... Burgundy, France

Coyote’s Run 2011 Black Paw Vineyard Pinot Noir ($29.95 - #116442) ... Ontario, Canada

Catena Zapata 2009 Adrianna Vineyard Malbec ($119.95 - #132340) ... Argentina

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 9, 2013 - 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

Key:  Wine colour indicators - Red are red wines, Yellow are whites, etc.

The Foci … Dessert Wines (DST) and Star Quality (STAR)

The Skinny … Lots of pricy wines listed as Star Quality, and some of them are very good.  This time of year it’s hard to find good value wines but look into the Rhone Valley is France for some under $20 gems.

Argentina …

Kaiken 2010 Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #135202) – full on mocha and black cherry. (****)

Zolo 2012 Reserve Chardonnay ($16.95 - #347765) – touches of vanilla along with some pear and lemon meringue. (*** ½+)

Australia …

Nashwauk 2010 Shiraz ($19.95 - #221788) – velvety and silky with meaty, smoky and raspberry notes. (*** ½+)

Penfolds 2009 Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz ($44.95 - #309625) – nice balance of fruit with acidity, spiced mocha and pepper on the finish; cassis and blackberry dominate. (*** ½+) – STAR

Wolf Blass 2008 Gold Label Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #606939) – rich and flavourful with loads of mocha, chocolate and blackberry. (*** ½+)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Burrowing Owl 2010 Syrah ($41.95 - #73072) – there’s a coffee sensation at the beginning that leads to mocha on the finish with smoked meat and raspberry in the middle. (****) - STAR

Canada (Ontario) …

G Marquis 2010 The Silver Line Epic ($29.95 - #310367) - ****

Hinterbrook 2011 Sauvignon Blanc ($16.95 - #359372) - *** ½+

Konzelmann 2011 Special Select Late Harvest Vidal ($19.95 / 375ml - #359216) - *** ½+ (DST)

Muskoka Lake Winery 2012 Red Maple ($23.95 / 375ml - #50039) - **** (DST)

Norman Hardie 2010 Unfiltered Niagara Pinot Noir ($39.00 - #208702) - *** ½+ (STAR)

Rosewood 2008 Mead Royale Honey Wine ($14.95 - #296178) - *** ½+ (DST)

Chile …

Maycas del Limari 2009 Especial Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #256701) – silky and full of fruit: black cherry, plum, chocolate and spice. (****)

Ninquen 2011 Antu Chilean Mountain Vineyard Syrah ($17.95 - #675371) – minty, chocolatey with touches of leather, gentle spice and herbal notes. (*** ½+)

Undurraga 2012 Aliwen Reserva Sauvignon Blanc ($13.95 - #347948) – good citrus flavours incorporating grapefruit pith and rind. (*** ½+)

France (Alsace) …

Domaine Zind-Humbrecht 2011 Calcaire Pinot Gris ($27.95 - #190413) – nice spicy sweetness; spiced apricot and pear. (****) – STAR

France (Beaujolais) …

Louis Jadot 2009 Chateau des Jacques Morgon ($24.95 - #653584) – cherry with just a touch of spice to keep it in check. (*** ½+) - STAR

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Plaisance Cuvee Alix 2005 ($24.95 - #348789) – mocha, black cherry, cassis and spiced licorice. (*** ½+)

France (Rhone) …

Famille Perrin 2011 Les Cornuds Vinsobres ($17.95 - #566844) – plum and chocolate with cherry and a lovely seem of white pepper. (****+)

Foncalieu St Gervais 2011 Reserve du Crouzau Cotes du Rhone Villages ($16.95 - #142943) – nice plum, cherry and chocolate; good value. (****)

Pierre Amadieu 2010 Le Pas de L’Aigle Grande Reserve Gigondas ($32.95 - #354217) – smooth, supple and silky, plus there’s plenty of nice dark fruit. (****)

Germany …

Prinz Von Hessen 2011 Royal Riesling Kabinett ($26.95 - #345769) – quite dry and citrusy with some apricot undertones. (*** ½+)

Villa Wolf 2011 Wachenheimer Riesling ($13.95 - #366047) – mineral chalkiness with apple skin and lemon pith. (*** ½+)

Italy (Abruzzo) …

Jasci & Marchesani Nerube Riserva Montepulciano d’Abruzzo ($16.95 - #353599) – mocha / toffee with blackberries, vanilla and tar; intriguing. (*** ½+)

Italy (Piedmont) …

La Luna E I Falo 2010 Barbera D’Asti Superiore ($19.95 - #627901) – strawberry and black cherry notes that keep you coming back for more. (*** ½+)

Travaglini 2011 Nebbiolo ($18.95 - #30353) - light cherry with brightness on the mid-palate and spice on the finish. (*** ½+)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Donatella Cinelli Colombini 2007 Brunello di Montalcino ($48.95 - #113357) – shows a softness in its structure and brings big cherry flavour to the forefront with sweet spice mid-to-finish; you’ll also find plum and Christmas spice. (****)

Tenuta Guado Al Tasso 2011 Il Bruciato ($29.95 - #354662) – rustically dark fruited with nice elements of spice. (****)

Italy (Veneto) …

San Cassiano 2010 Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore ($17.95 - #354431) – cherry and coffee play off one another with a lovely tang on the palate. (*** ½+)

New Zealand …

Sileni 2012 The Plateau Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #132142) – nice earthy, spicy and strawberry quality. (*** ½+)

Portugal …

Pocas 1994 Colheita Port ($41.95 - #216424) – this is one delicious Port that brings the spice and the acidity to the fore with a cherry and cranberry cocktail mix in the background. (****+) - DST

South Africa …

Bellingham 2012 The Bernard Series Old Vine Chenin Blanc ($22.95 - #12724) – tropically tinged with lime rind and pith. (*** ½+)

Spain …

Descendientes de J Palacios Petalos 2011 ($24.95 - #675207) – good fruit with mineral, plum and good acidity. (*** ½+)

Lustau Peninsula Solera Reserva Palo Cortado ($17.95 / 375ml - #677856) – there’s a nutty almost almond skin like note that makes this very interesting. (*** ½+)

Rotllan 2009 Torra Crianza ($19.95 - #267989) – juicy blackberry with plum and dark chocolate. (****)

United States (California) …

Adaptation 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($46.95 - #353102) – juicy, juicy, juicy with black cherry, vanilla and chocolate. (****) - STAR

Domaine Chandon Brut Etoile ($39.95 - #205658) – creamy with some pineapple and vanilla notes, there’s also a hint of meringue; this one is almost dessert-like. (*** ½+)

La Crema 2011 Pinot Noir ($44.95 - #906404) – quite the juicy offering with loads of strawberry and cherry with gentle spice and some cinnamon and clove. (****) – STAR

MacMurray Ranch 2010 Pinot Noir ($21.95 - #48207) – black cherry dominant with touches of spice for balance. (*** ½+)

Morgan 2010 Highland Chardonnay ($31.95 - #953273) – deliciously mouthfilling, creamy in nature with butter, vanilla, and poached apple and pear. (****)

Rosenblum 2010 Zinfandel ($19.95 - #31781) – big on cherry, plum and vanilla cola notes, a really easy pleasing wine. (****)

Seghesio 2011 Zinfandel ($29.95 - #942151) – Seghesio knows Zin, this beauty delivers spice, acidity and plenty of fruit. (****+)

United States (Washington) …

Columbia Crest 2009 Grand Estates Amitage Red Blend ($16.95 - #336818) – nice bit of fruit to mocha ratio with sweet vanilla and oak backing. (*** ½+)

If You Can Afford It – wines worth their high price …

Antinori 2009 Guado Al Tasso ($99.95 - #986380) - **** (STAR)

Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne ($59.95 - #36962) - ****+

Cliff Lede 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($79.95 - #14217) - ****+ (STAR)

D’Arenberg 2009 The Dead Arm Shiraz ($54.95 - #981183) - ****+ (STAR)

Jonata 2009 Todos Red ($59.95 - #218941) - ****+ (STAR)

Le Serre Nuove Dell’Ornellaia ($59.95 - #606194) - ****+ (STAR)

Moet & Chandon 2002 Grand Vintage Brut Rosé Champagne ($59.95 - #69831) - *** ½+ (STAR)

Two Hands 2011 Bella’s Garden Shiraz ($59.95 - #636407) - ****+ (STAR)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – November 9, 2013 …

Famille Perrin 2011 Les Cornuds Vinsobres ($17.95 - #566844) – France

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.

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves November 9, 2013

“ISD”s are In-Store Discoveries, these are wines that seem to just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet.  Finally the LCBO has allowed the media the opportunity to taste and review these wines.

23 wines are being released, here are scores for 17 of them.

Three-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Suavia Acinatium Recioto di Soave ($34.95 - #355990) – Veneto, Italy
Dom Perignon 2002 Dark Jewel Rosé Champagne ($307.95 - #345678) ... Champagne, France
Gloria Ferrer 2001 Carneros Cuvee ($109.95 - #918276) ... California, USA
Jim Barry 2008 The McRae Wood Shiraz ($59.95 - #737817) ... Australia
Ferraton Pere & Fils 2009 Les Grands Muriers Cornas ($N/A - #340026) ... Rhone, France
Castelgiocondo 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva ($119.95 - #724252) ... Tuscany, Italy

Four Star Wines (****) …
Messias 1980 Colheita Port ($49.95 - #342642) ... Portugal
Taylor Fladgate 30 Year Old Tawny Port ($180.95 - #540252) ... Portugal
Domaine Bernard Defaix et Fils 2010 Bougros Grand Cru Chablis ($N/A - #340265) ... Burgundy, France
Domaine Jaeger-Defaix Rabource Rully 1er Cru 2011 ($32.95 - #200139) ... Burgundy, France
Quintessa 2009 ($129.95 - #238279) ... California, USA
Closa Batllet 2007 ($49.95 - #156398) ... Spain

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Domaine Louis Michel & Fils 2010 Forets Chablis 1er Cru ($37.95 - #231936) ... Burgundy, France
F & L Pillot 2010 Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot 1er Cru ($N/A - #340257) ... Burgundy, France
Roger Belland 2010 Santenay-Commes 1er Cru ($48.95 - #725549) ... Burgundy, France
Quinta de Ventozelo 2008 Grande Reserva ($37.95 - #345991) ... Portugal

Four-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (**** ½+) …
Domaine Bosquet des Papes 2011 Chante Le Merle Vieilles Vignes Chateauneuf du Pape ($N/A - #734244) – Rhone, France

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while there sign up for Michael's free bi-weekly newsletter.

Saturday October 26, 2013 - 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

Key:  Wine colour indicators - Red are red wines, Yellow are whites, etc.

The Foci … Four this time out: Bordeaux 2010 (B210); Oregon/Washington (OrWa); Whisky and Gifting (GIF)

The Skinny … I’m not much of a Whisky person so don’t expect anything there but there and as we get closer to Christmas you’ll be noticing some pricier wines, mainly for gift giving, or those special dinners you’ll be attending.

Argentina …

Zolo 2010 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.00 - #54098) – spicy and quite coffee oriented. (*** ½+)

Vina Tarapaca 2010 Etiqueta Negra Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #348045) – quite nice with mint and black fruit, great gift for those who like to BBQ in winter. (GIF)

Australia …

D’Arenberg 2011 The Money Spider Roussanne ($21.95 - #656710) – creamy texture with apple, pineapple and other tropical notes, you’ll also find some pear on the finish. (****)

Glaetzer 2010 The Wallace Shiraz Grenache ($28.95 - #47605) – rich, meaty and cocoa with plum and blackberry; lovely spiced finish. (****)

Mountadam Patriarch High Eden Shiraz 2009 ($24.95 - #906255) – loaded with raspberry jam, cherry, plum and chocolate. (****)

Small Gully 2010 Mr. Black’s Little Book Shiraz ($17.95 - #287979) – nice touch of spice amongst all the rich black fruit. (****)

Two Hands 2011 Gnarly Dudes Shiraz ($29.95 - #660043) – pepper and spice with jammy raspberry fruit. (*** ½+)

Yabby Lake Vineyard 2010 Single Vineyard Pinot Noir ($49.95 - #262402) – one of the better Pinots I have had from Oz, nice spice with bright black cherry, plum and a touch of cinnamon and clove. (****)

Austria …

Domane Wachau 2012 Terraces Gruner Veltliner ($17.95 - #155812) – pea pod, grassy and grapefruit pith oriented. (*** ½+)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Burrowing Owl 2011 Chardonnay ($36.95 - #208694) – white fruit dominated, fresh and lively with decent acidity. (*** ½+)

Canada (Ontario) … click on wine name for full review

Chateau des Charmes 2010 Brut Rosé ($28.95 - #78055) - *** ½

Featherstone 2011 Red Tail Merlot ($19.95 - #131540) - *** ½+

Fielding 2012 Estate Riesling ($18.95 - #251439) - ****

Henry of Pelham 2010 Estate Cabernet/Merlot ($24.95 - #395855) - *** ½+

France (Alsace) …

Joseph Cattin 2010 Hatschbourg Gewurztraminer ($19.95 - #259770) – nice textured Gewurzt with touches of spice amongst the rose petals. (*** ½+)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Castaing 2010 ($17.95 - #206631) – herbal, blackberry and smoky. (*** ½+) – B210

Chateau Clos Puy Arnaud 2009 ($41.85 - #194423) – really has something going for it with spice, cinnamon, dark fruit and good texture in the mouth. (****)

Chateau Fontaine 2010 ($16.95 / 375ml - #199158) – sweet and creamy palate with apricot and spice , great value for this Sauternes. (****) – B210

Chateau La Vieille Forge 2010 ($23.95 - #348664) – smooth and tasty with nice mocha, cherry and sweet white pepper. (*** ½+) – B210

Chateau Lamothe de Haux 2010 ($16.95 - #641555) – hints of coffee and raspberry with elements of black cherry. (*** 1/2+) – B210

Chateau Rahoul 2010 ($29.95 - #226043) – black tea, blackberry, cassis, clove with herbal notes. (****) – B210

Chateau Robin 2010 ($17.95 - #171249) – drinkable now with mocha-cherry notes. (*** ½+) – B210

France (Burgundy) …

Domaine Moillard 2011 Cote de Nuits Villages ($24.95 - #354308) – sour cherry and fresh cherry mix with good acidic backbone and a cran-strawberry finish. (*** ½+)

Vitteaut-Alberti Blanc Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($18.95 - #180018) – plenty of citrus with some creamy notes and almonds. (*** ½+)

William Fevre 2011 Chablis ($24.95 - #124578) – fruit driven with nice apple and pear notes with touches of lemon /citrus. (*** ½+)

France (Rhone) …

Chateau des Roques 2009 Vacqueyras ($21.95 - #352039) – brambly blackberry with spice and some mocha cherry. (*** ½+)

France (Southwest) …

Laplace Madiran 2010 ($16.95 - #103705) – lots of cherry, raspberry, white pepper and plum. (*** ½+)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Salcheto 2008 Vino Nobile di Montalcino ($27.95 - #685180) – licorice, black pepper, clove and spice. (****)

Toscolo 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva ($24.95 - #69369) – rustic red meets fresh and fruity, nice clash of styles in the mouth. (*** ½+)

Italy (Veneto) …

Monte Zovo 2011 Sa’Solin Ripasso Valpolicella ($17.95 - #650713) – cherry, mocha and even a touch meaty. (*** ½+)

Remo Farina Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($79.95 - #187369) – rich and delicious, for those who love Amarone. (GIF)

Tenuta S. Anna Prosecco Superiore di Valdobbiadene ($19.95 - #281386) – nice sweet apple with good acidity and a finish that’s got almond and a creamy smoothness. (****)

New Zealand …

Villa Maria 2009 Cellar Selection Pinot Noir ($32.95 - #285361) – chilled this wine has nice black cherry and interesting toned down spice. (*** ½+)

Portugal …

Quinta do Portal 2009 Reserva ($21.95 – 280578) – deep, intense and tasty. (*** ½+)

Spain …

Emilio Lustau East India Solera Sherry ($22.95 - #34291) – great balance between the sweet and the dry aspects of this Sherry, you’ll find maple syrup coated orange peel with raisins and dates; acidity it top notch. (**** ½)

Vinos Sin Ley “M” Old Vine Monastrell 2011 ($18.95 - #344226) – cherry, raspberry and cocoa finds its way into the mix with hearty plum elements. (*** ½+)

United States (California) …

Artesa 2011 Chardonnay ($24.95 - #657585) – nice length with good mouthfeel; balances peach and pear action with vanilla and butterscotch. (****)

Ferrari-Carano 2011 Chardonnay ($28.95 - #295055) – citrus and tangerine skin with pumped up vanilla. (*** ½+)

Gallo 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.95 - #343996) – nice drinkability now factor with raspberry mocha and a pseudo-creaminess yet spiced finish. (****)

Grove Street 2011 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #231613) – sweet black cherry and white pepper notes. (*** ½+)

La Crema 2011 Chardonnay ($37.95 - #67231) – Crema not only on the label but in name, a creamy effort with great balance of fruit, barrel notes and acid. (****)

Madrigal 2008 Petite Sirah ($31.95 - #71803) – plum, cherry and violets, very fruity. (****)

Stags’ Leap Winery 2010 Merlot ($39.95 - #655399) – juicy cherry and blackberry with hints of leather. (*** ½+)

Tangley Oaks 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($25.95 - #104208) – lots of mocha-chocolate along with plum and cherry. (*** ½+)

United States (Oregon) …

Planet Oregon 2011 Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #333245) – gentle and subtle with raspberry and cherry, sweet of fruit would overwhelm if it wasn’t for the nice balance of acidity. (****) - OrWa

United States (Washington) …

Columbia Crest 2010 H3 Horse Heaven Hills Merlot ($21.95 - #209874) – juicy and fruited with blackberry, raspberry, cherry and a touch of chocolate. (*** ½+) - OrWa

If You Can Afford It – wines worth their high price …

Banfi 2007 Brunello di Montalcino ($59.95 - #378257) - ****

Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut Champagne ($74.95 - #384529) - ****+

Luce Della Vita Luce ($99.95 - #685263) - **** ½

Napa Angel 2008 Aurelio’s Selection Cabernet Sauvignon ($69.95 – 255794) - ****

Sassicaia 2010 ($184.95 - #480533) - *** ½+

Stags’ Leap 2009 The Leap Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($89.95 - #142844) - ****

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – October 26, 2013 …

Banfi 2009 Cuvee Aurora Rose ($24.95 - #355693) - Piedmont, Italy (ISD Release)

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.