Vintages Report is Going Home

 

The Vintages Report is going home ... 

With the update and release of the NEW Michael Pinkus Wine Review website (formerly OntarioWineReview); with its sleek new look, cool design, and mobile functionality we've decided to bring a few of the blogs back into the fold ... this being one of them - be sure to check us out there.

To see the new website and keep abreast with the bi-weekly Vintages Reports you can click here.

Thanks for reading and we'll see you on the new site. Cheers

Michael Pinkus

Grape Guy

Vintages Release for July 5, 2014 - My Apologies

I must apologize ... I was unable to attend the Vintages pre-tasting for the release date of July 5, 2014 because I was out of the country ... my release reports will return for the July 19, 2014 Vintages release.  Sorry for any inconvenience.

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

Saturday June 21, 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 … Unique Grape Varieties (UGV), Europe vs New World (EVN), and Canada Day (CD)

The Skinny … My “oh wow” moment was a Pinotage from South Africa that doesn’t taste like Pinotage, and that’s a good thing – the other is that there is an Italian version of Zin (Primitivo) that truly shines; plus there’s the rest of the stuff, as you will see.

Argentina …

Agostino 2011 Inicio Malbec ($14.95 - #330670) – deep colour and rich extract with mocha, spice, blueberry, vanilla and spice.  (****) – EVN

La Posta 2011 Angel Paulucci Vineyard Malbec ($15.95 - #075515) – black cherry, black berry, chocolate and spiced vanilla.  (*** ½)

Vinecol 2013 Organic Bonarda ($15.95- #375493) – juice blueberry with cherry pie notes, this one also has a kick of something spicy. (*** ½) - UGV

Australia …

Magpie Estate 2010 The Sack Shiraz ($21.95 - #094078) – lots of deliciousness in the form of cassis, vanilla, smoke, spiced anise and bacon.  (****)

Austria …

Laurenz V 2012 Friendly Gruner Veltliner ($19.95 - #066225) – friendly is a good name for this with it’s lovely acidity, pea pod and lime zest this one “shakes hands” with your tongue.  (****) – UGV 

Canada (British Columbia) …

Mission Hill 2013 Five Vineyards Rosé ($14.95 – 229716) – Cherry and raspberry with a touch of strawberry; pleasant, affordable and tasty.  (*** ½+) – CD

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

Bachelder 2011 Saunders Vineyard Chardonnay ($44.95 - #324103) - **** ½ (EVN)

Norman Hardie 2012 Riesling ($21.00 - #131169) - ****+ (EVN)

Pondview 2011 Cabernet-Merlot ($18.95 - #307561) - *** ½+

Pondview 2013 Cabernet Franc Rosé ($14.95 - #241802) - ****

Union 2012 Squared Red ($17.95 - #292359) - *** ½+ (CD)

Chile …

Tamaya 2011 Gran Reserva Syrah ($21.95 - #374306) – smoky, minty, meaty with dark fruited white pepper; dark, brooding and deliciously smoky.  (****)

France (Alsace) …

Joseph Cattin 2013 Pinot Noir Rosé ($15.95 - |#374926) – hint of sweetness on the nose but there is none on the palate, instead it’s tangy and refreshing.  (*** ½+)

France (Beaujolais) …

Jean-Paul Brun 2012 Terres Dorees Morgon ($23.95 - #264465) – lots of juicy cherry, well-balanced, tasty with just enough acidity and tannins to give it just the right amount of lift.  (****)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Boutisse 2010 ($39.95 - #368175) – silky smooth, easy drinking, a certain elegance with nice tannins.  (*** ½+)

Chateau Canteloup 2010 ($16.95 - #243923) – nice backbone of spice and herbal character with dark fruit and coffee notes on the finish.  (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Chateau de Mercey 2010 Mercurey1er Cru ($25.95 - #264531) – love a Mercurey; this one has rich fruit: plum, black cherry, spice and lots of strawberry with a long spiced-plum finish.  (****)

Domaine de L’Hermitage de Nantoux 2011 Beaunes les Blanches Fleurs 1er Cru ($49.95 - #366872) – pretty floral, sour yet ripe cherry, touch of vanilla  all add up to an interesting wine.  (****) - EVN

France (Loire) …

La Grille 2012 Pouilly-Fume ($24.95 - #374470) – lemon and grapefruit zest with herbaceous notes; it’s pretty and pleasant and grows on you with each sip.  (****) – EVN

France (Rhone) …

Chateau La Nerthe 2011 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($49.95 - #735407) – full flavoured and good complexity, there is plenty going on here and it’s so worthy trying.  (****+)

Clos du Caillou 2011 Bouquet des Garrigues Cotes du Rhone ($25.95 - #370213) – sweet cheery and other red fruits, touch of smokiness and lots of vanilla with a balanced finish.  (****+)

Domaine Maby 2013 La Forcadiere Tavel Rose ($18.95 - #701318) – dry raspberry and strawberry pith with nice cherry backing and a seemingly creamy centre, but there is good acidity and a nice lingering finish.  (*** ½+)

La Ferme du Mont 2011 Le Ponnant Cotes du Rhone Villages ($19.95 - #171371) – licorice and raspberry with some floral notes.  (*** ½+)

Signature 2009 Vin Doux Naturel Rasteau ($24.95 - #371740) - plenty of chocolate that surrounds strawberry, cherry and a hint of plum.  (****)

France (Southwest) …

Chateau du Gaudou 2010 Grand Lignee Malbec/Merlot ($18.95 - #370239) – interesting mix of cocoa bean and blackberry.  (*** ½+) – EVN

Germany …

Schloss Schonborn 2008 Marcobrunn Riesling Kabinett ($21.95 - #928861) – dry and delicious, shows off plenty of mineral and bosc pear.  (****+) – EVN

Greece …

Alpha Estate 2012 Axia Malagouzia ($17.95 - #371666) – touches of beeswax, grapefruit and white flowers.  (*** ½)

Italy (Emilia-Romagna) …

Umberto Cesari 2010 Riserva Sangiovese di Romagna ($19.95 - #033399) – odd mix of meaty and chocolaty that becomes appealing on the third and fourth sip, so give it a chance.  (*** ½+)

Italy (Puglia) …

Papale 2010 Linea Oro Primitivo di Manduria ($19.95 - #261784) – cherry and chocolate mix with cola and vanilla for a near Zin experience – break out the BBQ ribs.  (**** ½) – EVN

Italy (Tuscany) …

Capanna 2008 Brunello di Montalcino ($48.95 - #378513) – silky, smoky with layers of dried fruit and good acidity for balance.  (****)

Poggio Al Tufo 2010 Alicante ($19.95 - #070797) – almost sweet mixing with some smoky for a unique taste experience; oddly enjoyable.  (*** ½)

Italy (Umbria) …

Scacciadiavoli 2009 Montefalco Rosso ($21.95 - #372458) – lifted dried cherry, licorice, , dried plum, nice spice and well balanced acidity.  (*** ½+)

Italy (Veneto) …

Tommasi 2012 Adorato Parziale Appassimento Bianco ($15.95 - #320721) – oddly creamy with interesting baked white fruit component; melon and apple complete with the grill marks.  (*** ½)

New Zealand …

Dog Point 2011 Pinot Noir ($49.95 - #329672) – juicy and fruit driven with just enough earthy and sour cherry to make it identifiably Pinot.  (****) - EVN

Nobilo 2013 Icon Sauvignon Blanc ($25.95 - #912337) – very herbaceous and herbal along with grapefruity-ness and touches of gooseberry.  (*** ½+) – EVN

Oyster Bay 2013 Pinot Grigio ($18.95 - #326090) – a little lime zest goes a long way on this one.  (*** ½)

South Africa …

Cape Point Vineyards 2012 Sauvignon Blanc ($15.95 - #285221) – pretty bottle stores an elegant Sauv Blanc with melon, white peach and hints of lemon pith.  (*** ½+)

Ken Forrester 2012 Reserve Chenin Blanc ($17.95 - #231282) – grilled pineapple and apricot with hints of poached pear; I was hoping for more here but it’s good.  (*** /2+) – EVN

Man Family Wines 2012 Bosstok Pinotage ($13.95 - #366286) – mid-weight, juicy with coffee and cocoa; someone finally has it right, this is great value and doesn’t taste like Pinotage, and that’s a good thing.  (*** ½+) – UGV

Spain …

Borsao 2009 Berola ($18.95 - #371518) – juicy cherry and raspberry with sweet vanilla and a succulent / spicy finish.  (****+)

Ercavio 2011 Tempranillo Roble ($16.95 - #067504) – nice and juicy with lots of plum and cherry; well-priced even for Ontario.  (*** ½+)

Vina Herminia 2009 Excelsus ($21.95 - #050567) – coffee, raspberry, mocha, tobacco and dried cherry with a long, pleasant linger. (****)

United States (California) …

Hartley-Ostini 2012 Hitching Post Hometown Pinot Noir ($28.95 - #256644) – this is a silky version of Pinot Noir with red berries abound, there’s also a hint of smoke; pleasant.  (*** ½+)

Liberty School 2011 Syrah ($18.95 - #942383) – white pepper, raspberry, cocoa with hints of licorice and smoke.  (*** ½+)

Plume 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($31.95 - #287367) – chocolate, black cherry and vanilla. (*** ½+)

Rodney Strong 2012 Chardonnay ($19.95 - #226936) – there’s peach and apple with smoked/grilled pineapple with a nice creamy texture and a spiced lemon drop finish with hints of grilled peach.  (****)

United States (Washington) …

Milbrandt 2012 Traditions Cabernet Sauvignon ($18.95 - #237784) – surprisingly juicy with blueberry, raspberry and a little bit of smoked meat poking through all with a mocha / chocolate finish.  (*** ½+)

________________________________________

In-Store Discoveries – wines that just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet  …

Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé Champagne ($56.95/375ml - #924670) Champagne, France (****)

Jim Barry 2009 The McRae Wood Shiraz ($59.95 - #737817) Australia (****)

Muga 2009 Seleccion 2009 Especial Riserva ($39.95 - #921536) – Spain (*** ½+)

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

St. Supery 2010 Rutherford Merlot ($58.95 – 376939) – California, USA (****)

Pascal Marchand 2010 Gevrey-Chambertin ($67.95 - #286450) Burgundy, France (****)

Venturini 2009 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($54.95 - #379263) – Veneto, Italy (****+)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – June 21, 2014 …

Borsao 2009 Berola ($18.95 - #371518) – Spain

Man Family Wines 2012 Bosstok Pinotage ($13.95 - #366286) – South Africa

Papale 2010 Linea Oro Primitivo di Manduria ($19.95 - #261784) – Italy

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 June 7, 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 … Aussie Cabs, Chards and Shiraz (AC2S), Italian Whites (IW) and Dad (DAD)

The Skinny … Seems to be a light week for good wine, but once again I’ll give you the skinny on the good ones to buy.

Australia …

Domaine Tournon 2011 Mathilda Shiraz ($19.95 - #327395) – clearly smoky and meaty come through on the French/Australian joint venture, thought more French then Oz.  (****) – AC2S

Grant Burge 2010 The Holy Trinity Greneche/Shiraz/Mourvedre ($29.95 - #236257) – red fruit and herbal notes come together with finesse and delicacy yet shows muscle mid-palate.  (****) – AC2S

Mitolo 2010 GAM Shiraz ($39.95 - #596031) – smoky, meaty, mocha with accents of dark fruit and nice acid backbone.  (****) – AC2S

Trust 2010 Shiraz ($25.95 - #371468) – Eucalyptus, black cherry, violet and mocha.  (****) – AC2S

Wynns Coonawarra Estate 2010 Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon ($27.95 - #084996) – pleasant creaminess of chocolate with nice acidity black currant, blackberry, mocha.  (****+) – AC2S

Wild River 2011 Pinot Noir ($21.95 - #376244) – nicely fruit forward with cherry and dusty mineral, plum and spice.  (*** ½+)

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

Creekside 2013 Cabernet Rosé ($15.95 - #048819) - *** ½+

Creekside 2010 Laura’s Red ($19.95 - #117960) - ****

Konzelmann 2012 Heritage ($26.95 - #149179) - ****

Malivoire 2012 Pinot Gris ($19.95 - #591305) - *** ½+

Su-Ann Staff 2012 Loved By Lu Riesling ($16.95 - #322636) - *** ½+

Thirty Bench 2011 Red ($24.00 - #320986) - *** ½+ - DAD

Chile …

I Latina 2010 Syrah ($22.95 - #371120) – nice minty and smoky notes, hints of chocolate / caramel and black fruit.  (*** ½+)

Morande 2009 Gran Reserva Carmenere ($20.95 - #371112) – plenty of mint and blackberry, touch of vanilla with raspberry, cherry and sweet blueberry.  (****)

France (Alsace) …

Arthur Metz Brut Prestige Cremant D’Alsace ($19.95 - #369116) – green apple and lemon, good acidity with lively bubble and long finish.  (****)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Roc St-Michel 2009 ($28.95 - #366369) – starts off toasty but mocha and blackberry creeps in.  (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Pierre Andre 2010 Volnay ($35.95 - #365072) – nice tannins, cherry, black raspberry, earthy and herbal.  (****)

France (Loire) …

Chavet & Fils 2012 La Dame de Jacques Coeur Menetou-Salon Blanc ($19.95 - #525048) – touch of melon and apple blossom subtle yet enjoyable.  (*** ½+)

Langlois-Chateau Brut Cremant de Loire ($21.95 - #996272) – biscuit, lemon drop and mac apple; real pleasant.  (*** ½+)

France (Midi) …

Carignanissime de Centeilles 2010 ($18.95 - #041913) – sweet fruited to its core; a real slug it back and enjoy around the BBQ kinda wine.  (****)

Domaine Gardies Les Milleres 2011 ($24.95 - #370205) – mocha, blackberry, black cherry, plum, vanilla, dark chocolate; flavourful and seductive with good tannin backing.  (****+)

France (Provence) …

Carte Noir 2013 Rosé ($17.95 - #319384) – dry and delicate; lavender and apricot notes with herbal backing and a nice long finish.  (****)

France (Rhone) …

E. Guigal 2012 Cotes du Rhone Blanc ($18.95 - #290266) – wet stone, peach pit, floral notes with citrus pith.  (*** ½+)

Germany …

Konigschaffhauser Vulkanfelsen 2013 Pinot Noir Rosé Trocken ($13.95 - #168237) – pleasant and easy drinking, raspberry dominated.  (*** ½)

Italy (Campania) …

Fontanavecchia Taburno Falanghina del Sannio 2012 ($18.95 - #375287) – citrus, pear and floral; pleasing on the palate.  (*** ½+) – IW

Terredora di Paola Loggio della Serra Greco di Tufo 2012 ($20.95 - #983197) – apple skin, wet stone and peach pit with a long finish.  (****) – IW

Italy (Piedmont) …

Pio Cesare 2011 Barbera D’Alba ($24.95 - #938886) – rich dark fruit, cassis with blackberry and black cherry.  (*** ½+)

San Silvestro Fossili 2012 Gavi di Gavi ($16.95 - #368753) – citrus with a mineral seam along with zesty and rindy notes.  (*** ½+) – IW

Italy (Puglia) …

Leone de Castris 2010 Riserva Salice Salentino ($19.95 - #597534) – sweetness of plum and black cherry all nicely spiced.  (****)

Italy (Veneto) …

La Cappuccina 2013 Soave ($15.95 - #081489) – crisp and refreshing showing grapefruit zest and melon rind.  (*** ½+) – IW 

New Zealand …

Loveblock 2012 Sauvignon Blanc ($29.95 - #366310) – typical but still tasty, grass dominated with grapefruit backing.  (*** ½+)

South Africa …

Delheim 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($18.95 - #981357) – pleasant dark and red fruit mix with nice oak balance.  (*** ½+)

Spain …

Borsao 2011 Tres Picos Garnacha ($19.95 - #273748) – rich and juicy red berries with blueberry and cherry, very quaffable with all its sweet fruit.  (****)

Breca 2010 Old Vines Garnacha ($19.95 - #329086) – complex and tasty; black fruit and mineral mingle with big alcohol and big flavour profile all at an impressive price.  (****+)

United States (California) …

Artesa 2012 Chardonnay ($24.95 - #657585) – has the Cali-Chard flavours down pat with oak, vanilla, toasted apple and touches of spice.  (****)

Ferrari-Carano 2012 Fume Blanc ($22.95 - #354993) – vanilla, lemon grass, pineapple tropicality; comes across as a Chardonnay with plenty of acidity.  (****)

Geyser Peak 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #343467) – nice balance of juicy smoothness, black fruit with a chocolate interior.  (****)

Marimar Estate 2009 Mas Cavalls Pinot Noir ($42.95 - #368316) – lots of California appeal with richness of plum and cherry with pomegranate backing.  (*** ½+)

Smith-Madrone 2011 Chardonnay ($39.95 - #363556) – muscle and finesse meet in the glass, it’s a bruiser and a tasty one at that.  (****)

________________________________________

In-Store Discoveries – wines that just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet  …

Bassermann-Jordan 2008 Deidesheimer-Hohenmorgen Riesling Auslese ($54.95 - #377515) – Germany - ****+

Burrowing Owl 2010 Athene ($44.95 - #371336) – British Columbia - Canada ****+

Raymond 2009 Red Room Red ($150.00 - #369264) – California, USA - ****

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

Ridge 2011 Geyserville ($52.95 - #723072) - ****+ (DAD)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – June 7, 2014 …

Arthur Metz Brut Prestige Cremant D’Alsace ($19.95 - #0369116) – France

Breca 2010 Old Vines Garnacha ($19.95 - #329086) – Spain

Domaine Gardies Les Milleres 2011 ($24.95 - #370205) – 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.

Saturday May 24, 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 … Fresh Crisp Whites (FCW) and Rhone Roundup (RR)

The Skinny … The Rhone makes some beautiful wines and there are some in this release; there’s a couple from South America worth picking up and a new Henry of Pelham red that will knock your socks off at an unbelievable price.

Argentina …

Chakana 2011 Maipe Reserva Bonarda ($18.95 - #361212) – dark chocolate, black cherry with a nice juicy core.  (*** ½+)

Crios de Susana Balbo 2013 Torrontes ($13.95 - #001834) – fresh, lively and fruity with orange blossom and melon rind.  (*** ½+) – FCW

Fabre Montmayou 2012 Reserva Malbec ($15.95 - #261867) – rich and concentrated with violet and black cherry.  (*** ½+)

Leo 2011 Premium Malbec ($19.95 - #375121) – roasted coffee, blueberry, plum, cinnamon, black and red cherry, cassis; obviously quite complex and tasty.  (****+)

Raza Dolce 2013 Torrontes Sparkling Wine ($15.95 - #363481) – fake moscato, sweet and fizzy; perfect for those unpretentious days on the patio.  (*** ½)

Australia …

De Bortoli 2012 Gulf Station Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #015511) – for Aussie Pinot Noir this is good stuff, the earthy-strawberry sings and the acidity is balanced.  (****)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Mission Hill 2012 Family Reserve Pinot Gris ($17.95 - #537076) – a touch of peach mixed with plenty of acidity.  (*** ½+)

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

Henry of Pelham 2012 Family Tree Red ($18.95 - #247882) - **** ½

Inniskillin 2013 Pinot Noir Rose ($14.95 - #336461) - *** ½

Mike Weir 2012 Limited Edition Barrel Fermented Chardonnay ($24.95 - #367813) - ****+

Riverview 2011 Fontana Dolce ($14.95 - #365825) - *** ½

Sunnybrook Estate 2012 Pear Blossom Wine ($18.95 - #372359) - ****

Chile …

Claro Magnolo 2011 Reserve Malbec ($13.95 - #365932) – hints of pepper with dark fruit, violets and cassis; smooth and silky.  (*** ½+)

Montes 2010 Alpha Syrah ($19.95 - #000612) – smoky, white pepper, blueberry, hints of vanilla and a meaty quality; the complexity is lovely.  (****+)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Camp de la Hire ($16.95 - #365866) – earthy-licorice notes with dark fruit and nice tannins grip.  (*** ½+)

Chateau Saransot-Dupre 2010 ($28.95 - #065870) – rich concentrated fruit, dark with cocoa, coffee and spice.  (****)

France (Burgundy) …

Bailly- Lapierre Brut Chardonnay Cremant de Bourgogne ($24.95 - #369066) – nice and frothy with lemon-lime and breadines with good acidity.  (****)

France (Midi) …

Beauvignac 2013 Picpoul de Pinet ($13.95 - #350124) – grassy, peach pit and green apple skin; crisp, light and refreshing.  (*** ½+) - FCW

France (Rhone) …

Chateau Grand Dignitaire 2012 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Gadagne ($18.95 - #376475) – such juicy fruit all red and all enjoyable.  (*** ½+) – RR

Clos Bellane 2010 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Valreas ($19.95 - #374991) – juicy and drinkable, quite pleasant, nice cherry and pretty strawberry.  (****) – RR

Domaine la Guintrandy 2012 Cotes du Rhone ($15.95 - #374975) – good cherry, plum and raspberry, white pepper, touches of mocha and good balancing acidity.  (****) – RR

Domaine Lafond Roc-Epine 2011 Lirac ($18.95 - #128660) – meaty, cola, dark fruit, anise and chocolate.  (****+) – RR

Domaine Martin 2011 Plan de Dieu Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($19.95 - #370197) – nice fruit, leather and mocha, good spice and a long finish.  (****) – RR

Domaine Saint-Pierre 2011 Vacqueyras ($25.95 - #130013) – nicely spiced, rich plum and dark fruit.  (*** ½+) – RR

La Font du Vent 2010 Notre Passion Cotes du Rhone-Villages Signargues ($16.95 - #370221) – silky smooth and easy drinking but the acidity balances it.  (*** ½+) – RR

France (Southwest) …

Chateau Bellevue 2013 La Foret Rosé ($14.95 - #219840) – nice, dry, subtle lemon and strawberry pith.  (*** ½+)

Chateau Vincens 2011 Prestige ($17.95 - #272427) – melds the Argentine fruit to the smoky, tannic version of Cahors: nice plum, vanilla and black cherry.  (****)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Coltibuono 2011 RS Chianti Classico ($21.95 - #532002) – starts with a touch of sweet fruit with silky tannins and a floral characteristic also has cinnamon and a nice dry finish.  (*** ½+)

Luxembourg …

Bernard-Massard Cuvee de L’Ecusson Brut Rosé ($21.95 - #369074) – nice elevated acidity with lime zest and pith with hints of tart raspberry; pretty and playful.  (****)

New Zealand …

Stoneleigh 2012 Latitude Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #324228) – melon, grassy, and grapefruit cocktail, pretty tempting for Sauvignon Blanc fans.  (****) - FCW

Portugal …

Dow’s 2008 Late Bottled Vintage Port ($17.95 - #613927) – silky, sweet and smooth:  layers of plum, black cherry  and chocolate with good acidity.  (*** ½+)

Meandro do Vale Meao 2011 ($24.95 - #244731) – complex and juicy with black cherry, blueberry, plum, smoked chocolate, nice acidity and minerality with a chalky substantive finish; this wine is almost chewy.  (****+)

Spain …

Cosme Palacio 2007 Reserva ($23.95 - #014662) – dried cherry and strawberry with good acidity.  (*** ½+)

Monte Pinadillo 2010 Crianza ($19.95 - #360768) – juicy blackberry and mocha and a nice spice on the finish.  (****+)

United States (California) …

Stonehedge 2012 Reserve Chardonnay ($19.95 - #311548) – sweet fruit like peaches and apricots along with vanilla and pineapple.  (*** ½+)

Summers 2010 Calistoga Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($34.95 - #279380) – shows nice complexity with blackberry, cassis, mocha and good spice.  (****)

United States (Oregon) …

Alexana 2012 Red Label Pinot Noir ($29.95 - #372367) – balances some California sweet fruitedness with Oregon earthiness: rich yet refined; nice spice with good acid backbone (*** ½+)

Yamhill Valley Vineyards 2011 Pinot Gris ($17.95 - #366294) – mellow grapefruit pith with mac apple and lemon zest.  (*** ½+) - FCW

________________________________________

In-Store Discoveries – wines that just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet  …

JC Cellars 2008 Eagle Point Ranch Petite Sirah ($55.00 - #327551) – California, USA (*** ½+)

KEW Vineyards 2011 Blanc de Noir ($29.95 - #380030) – Ontario, Canada (****)

Raymond 2010 Generations Cabernet Sauvignon ($130 - #941492) – California, USA (****+)

Raymond 2010 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon ($75.00 - #369280) – California, USA (****)

Torres 2010 Perpetual ($49.95 - #265710) – Spain (****)

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

Albert Morot 2011 Beaune Les Teurons 1er Cru ($59.95 - #902833) – Burgundy, France (****+)

Bosquet des Papes 2011 Cuvee Tradition Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($50.95 - #726687) – Rhone, France (****+) – RR

Chalk Hill 2009 Estate Red ($79.95 - #330225) – California, USA (*** ½+)

E. Guigal 2007 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($59.95 - #727503) – Rhone, France (****) – RR

Lamiable Brut Grand Cru Champagne ($53.95 - #374298) – Champagne, France (****+)

Mica 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($121.95 - #210658) – California, USA (*** ½+)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – May 24, 2014 …

Chateau Vincens 2011 Prestige ($17.95 - #272427) – France

Domaine Lafond Roc-Epine 2011 Lirac ($18.95 - #128660) – France

Henry of Pelham 2012 Family Tree Red ($18.95 - #247882) – Canada

Leo 2011 Premium Malbec ($19.95 - #375121) – Argentina

Montes 2010 Alpha Syrah ($19.95 - #000612) – 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 May 10, 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 … Germany (GER); Rosé (ROS) and South America (SA)

The Skinny … It’s rosé season and there are plenty coming out, but not all are worth your hard earned dollar, but look for some of the bubblies and the one’s from France to impress.

Argentina …

Achaval Ferrer 2012 Malbec ($25.95 - #024737) – blackberry, smoky vanilla and tobacco.  (*** ½+) - SA

Hermanos de Domingo Molia 2012 Torrontes ($16.95 - #303685) – if you’ve never tried this torrential grape from Argentina this would be a decent place to start: floral and pineapple with hints of lime meringue.  (*** ½+) – SA

Maipe 2012 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($18.95 - #246116) – vanilla, cedar, cassis and blackberry with beauty spice on the finish.  (****) – SA

Trapiche 2011 Broquel Bonarda ($14.95 - #055558) – juicy blackberry palate and a red berry nose; playful in the mouth.  (*** ½+) – SA

Australia …

Saltram 2011 Mamre Brook Cabernet Sauvignon ($26.95 - #048579) – smoky vanilla and chocolate rule the roost here, fruit takes a backseat.  (*** ½+)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Quails’ Gate 2011 Merlot ($25.95 - #169961) – a little mocha amongst the blueberry, raspberry and spice.  (****)

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

Burning Kiln 2011 Cureman’s Chard Chardonnay ($19.95 - #310243) - *** ½+

Chateau des Charmes 2011 Brut Rosé ($28.95 - #078055) - **** (ROS)

Featherstone 2012 Black Sheep Riesling ($16.95 - #080234) - **** ½

Flat Rock Cellars 2013 Pinot Noir Rosé ($16.95 - #039974) - ****+ (ROS)

Flat Rock Cellars 2011 The Rusty Shed Chardonnay ($24.95 - #001552) - *** ½+

Hinterbrook 2011 Barrel Fermented Reserve Chardonnay ($19.95 - #292375) - ****+

Lailey Vineyard 2012 Select Late Harvest Vidal ($19.95 / 375ml - #072918) - ****

Chile …

Chilcas 2011 Single Vineyard Pinot Noir ($17.95 - #369454) – genuine Pinot Noir with raspberry and spiced vanilla with a juicy layer of white pepper.  (*** ½+) – SA

Tabali 2009 Reserva Especial ($22.95 - #107540) – nice peppery spice and juicy blackberry.  (*** ½+) - SA

France (Alsace) …

Joseph Cattin Brut Rosé Cremant D’Alsace ($17.95 - #264572) – touch of sweetness on the raspberry-lemon side of things.  (*** ½+)

France (Beaujolais) …

Vignerons de Bel-Air Ete Indien Brouilly 2012 ($17.95 - #159749) – very juicy with plenty of black cherry.  (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Domaine Vincent Sauvestre 2012 Bourgogne Chardonnay ($18.95 - #365056) – mineral, citrus with a little vanilla punch and long finish.  (****)

Marchand-Tawse 2011 Pinot Noir Bourgogne ($27.95 – #285601) – cedary and tart cherry with big acidity, mouthfilling tannins and good minerality all with a pleasant finish.  (****)

France (Loire) …

Gratien & Meyer Brut Cremant de Loire ($18.95 - #369058) – crisp and refreshing with nice apple, lemon and bread crust and good acidity on the finish.  (****+)

Jean-Max Roger 2012 Cuvee GC Sancerre ($29.95 - #189126) – grassy and lemon with grapefruit rind on the finish.  (*** ½+)

France (Provence) …

Chateau La Tour de L’Eveque 2013 Rosé ($18.95 - #319392) – dry and delicate with the right amount of apricot and raspberry notes.  (*** ½+) - ROS

France (Rhone) …

Delas Freres 2011 Les Launes Crozes-Hermitage ($22.95 - #701359) – spicy with blackberry and black currant core, plum also sneaks its way in accompanied by a pleasant hit of spice.  (*** ½+)

Famille Perrin 2011 Les Sinards Chateauneuf du Pape ($19.95 / 375ml - #005975) – raspberry, cherry, sweet black licorice, vanilla and spice; all well balanced and truly enjoyable.  (****+)

Famille Perrin 2013 Tavel Rosé ($19.95 - #680801) – deliciously fruity with nice raspberry and strawberry with nice acidity.  (****) – ROS

Mas des Bressades 2013 Cuvee Traditon Rose ($15.95 - #950576) – apple core and strawberry with a nice rosy quality, great acidity on the finish.  (*** ½+)

France (Southwest) …

Chateau Ferran 2012 Classique ($16.95 - #370114) – blueberry core with black cherry backing, juicy, sweet middle with a dry tannin based finish.  (****+)

Germany …

Konigschaffhausen Vulkanfelsen Trocken Pinot Gris 2012 ($15.95 - #597500) – bright, juicy and refreshing with touches of sweetness at its core balanced with acidity.  (*** ½+) – GER

C.H. Berres Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese 2011 ($27.95 - #301952) – nicely balanced sweetness to acidity ratio with apple, peach, and mineral.  (****) – GER

Max Ferd. Richter Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett 2007 ($20.95 - #998120) – good talcy-mineral sweetness with apple, peach, pear and a lovely length to the finish.  (*** ½+) - GER

Italy …

Florio 2010 Vecchioflorio Dolce Marsala Superiore ($14.95 - #371732) – caramel nut, butterscotch and vanilla; very flavourful. (****)

Italy (Marche) …

Ripa Marchetti Capolino 2011 Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico ($16.95 - #369363) – quince, pear and apricot.  (*** ½+)

Italy (Piedmont) …

Banfi 2009 Regali La Lus Albarossa ($24.95 - #291575) – I loved the ’08 and I’m a fan again with the ’09.  This is a sit and drink all day kinda wine with great black cherry, touch of spice and dark cocoa; smooth and lovely finish.  (**** ½)

FontannaFredda 2008 Serralunga D’Alba Barolo ($39.95 - #943290) – nicely spiced, good dried cherry and acidity on the finish.  (****)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Cantalici Messer Ridolfo Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 ($33.95 - #368431) – chocolate cherry and black licorice.  (*** ½+)

Rocca delle Macie 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva ($21.95 - #930966) – spicy cherry and strawberry with a touch of that old style Chianti earthiness.  (*** ½+)

Ruffino 2009 Modus ($28.95 - #912956) – robust dark fruit and spice, there’s a tang and juiciness to this one; juicy meets savoury and rustic on the finish.  (****)

Italy (Veneto) …

Remo Farina 2011 Le Pezze Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($37.95 - #171587) – a fun Amarone with cherry, chocolate, vanilla, anise and mocha; well-balanced yet juicy.  (*** ½+)

New Zealand …

Auntsfield 2011 Single Vineyard Pinot Noir ($32.95 - #361246) – black cherry meets cranberry cocktail with touches of anise, black raspberry and currants.  (****+)

Borthwick Vineyard 2012 Paddy Borthwick Sauvignon Blanc ($20.95 - #361220) – there’s something interesting that I can’t quite put my finger on, but it’s very appealing with gooseberry and punched up grapefruit.  (*** ½+)

The Ned 2013 Pinot Gris ($16.95 - #267138) – jazzy and refreshing with light peach colour and a good grapefruit cocktail finish.  (****)

Portugal …

Quinta do Noval Black Port ($24.95 - #235689) – spicy black cherry and black licorice along with plum and big acidity, but remember it is a port with sweetness.  (****)

South Africa …

Fairview 2011 Petite Sirah ($23.95 - #366252) – has a fun little chocolate note with plenty of plum and spice.  (*** ½+)

Spain …

Valdemar 2010 Inspiracion Seleccion ($17.00 - #166512) – red and black berries mingle with vanilla, licorice and toasty oak.  (*** ½+)

United States (California) …

Beaulieu Vineyard 2010 Beaurouge ($24.95 - #363531) – Beaulieu’s version of Apothic Red but with a few more grapes in the mix including Bonarda which help to make it juicy and enjoyably red fruited.  (*** ½+)

Chandon Blanc de Noirs Sparkling Wine ($27.95 - #100693) – lively acidity and bread crust notes with slight almandine and lemon finish.  (****)

Santa Barbara Winery 2012 Chardonnay ($21.95 - #989152) – nice vanilla butteryness with touches of tropical pineapple.  (*** ½+)

The Crusher 2012 Viognier ($16.95 - #361964) – white fruit and floral with peach and pineapple puree on the finish.  (*** ½+)

United States (Oregon) …

Kings Ridge 2012 Pinot Noir ($20.95 - #237776) – dark cherry and cranberry with a touch of sweet and a touch of savoury, quite tasty.  (****)

United States (Washington) …

Hedges Cellars 2011 CMS ($19.95 - #948992) – juicy and tasty with cherry, blueberry and cassis notes.  (*** ½+)

Milbrandt 2012 Traditions Riesling ($21.95 - #366278) – pleasant talc and pear notes. (*** ½+)

________________________________________

In-Store Discoveries – wines that just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet …

Coyote’s Run 2010 Rare Vintage Meritage ($39.95 - #042820) – Ontario (**** ½+)

Legacy 2009 ($98.95 - #708024) – California (*** ½+)

Stags’ Leap Winery 2010 Ne Cede Malis Petite Sirah ($89.95 - #589572) – California (****)

Torbreck 2009 The Steading ($53.95 - #097220) – Australia (****+)

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

Cade 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($79.95 - #296509) – California (****+)

Masi Serego Alighieri 2006 Vaio Armaron Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($69.95 - #462812) – Italy (****+)

Montes 2011 Purple Angel ($56.95 - #062364) – Chile (**** ½) - SA

Opus One 2010 ($459.00 - #026310) – California (****)

Peju 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($64.95 - #147314) – California (****)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – May 10, 2014 …

Banfi 2009 Regali La Lus Albarossa ($24.95 - #291575) – Italy

Chateau Ferran 2012 Classique ($16.95 - #370114) – France

Gratien & Meyer Brut Cremant de Loire ($18.95 - #369058) – France

Kings Ridge 2012 Pinot Noir ($20.95 - #237776) – United States

Maipe 2012 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($18.95 - #246116) – Argentina

Happy Shopping

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For more wine reviews and related articles go to www.ontariowinereview.com,

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

Saturday April 26, 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 … Sparkling Wine (SpWi) and Bordeaux (BOR)

The Skinny … This is the release for bubbly and there are quite a few sparklers coming out this week you’ll want to line your cellar walls with for a celebratory occasion, heck that could be on any given Wednesday.

Argentina …

Alta Vista 2011 Atemporal ($19.95 - #144352) – dark fruited and juicy with enough acid and spice to keep it honest.  (*** ½+)

Catena 2012 Chardonnay ($19.95 - #918805) – pleasant vanilla with hints of butterscotch and touches of grilled peach.  (*** ½+)

Australia …

Yalumba 2012 Viognier ($24.95 - #954644) – lovely tropical notes with pineapple and melon.  (****)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Gray Monk 2012 Unwooded Chardonnay ($19.95 - #303743) – light and refreshing apple/pear combo.  (*** ½+)

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

Keint-he 2012 Voyageur Pinot Noir ($17.95 - #373407) - *** ½

Malivoire 2013 Musque Spritz ($19.95 - #189670) - ****

Malivoire 2012 Riesling ($15.95 - #277483) - *** ½

Tawse 2012 Spark Limestone Ridge Sparkling Wine ($19.95 - #370361) - **** ½+ (SpWi)

Croatia …

Ilocki Podrumi Premium Grasevina 2011 ($23.95 - #369421) – honey, tropical, melon, mineral and hay; this one seems to be better at room temperature.  (*** ½)

France (Beaujolais) …

Manoir du Carra 2010 Fleurie ($24.95 - #364992) – hello sweet fruit, black cherry Beaujolais; something to sit and lovingly enjoy with a chill.  (****)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau de Monbadon 2010 ($18.95 - #365882) – good smoky vanilla, blackberry, black cherry, fruit forward with gentle spices; approachable with good tannin structure.  (****) – BOR

Chateau Haut Selve 2010 ($21.95 - #738120) – lots of dark berry fruit with anise, nice tannins along with chocolate blackberries.  (****) – BOR

Chateau La Croix Chantecaille 2009 ($29.95 - #349936) – there’s a pleasant smoothness and approachability here with plenty of dark fruit and herbal notes.  (*** ½+) – BOR

Chateau Lamartine 2010 ($16.95 - #368159) – mocha, herbal, touch of cherry, new leather and nice finish.  (****) – BOR

Chateau L’Argenteyre 2010 ($21.95 - #226217) – cocoa, cassis, roasted lamb and currants.  (*** ½+) – BOR

Chateau Le Bourdieu 2010 ($20.95 - #085084) – anise and red currant, cassis and some pleasant spice.  (*** ½+) - BOR

France (Burgundy) …

Bailly Lapierre Reserve Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($19.95 - #991562) – apple, pear and lemon; pretty, pleasant just enough dryness versus sweetness to keep you coming back.  (****+)

- SpWi

Domaine Jean Collet & Fils 2011 Vaillons Chablis 1er Cru ($31.95 - #650804) – pleasant, easy drinking with nice weight and not overloaded with oak, good apple-peach finish.  (****)

France (Loire) …

Domaine de Riaux 2012 Pouilly Fume ($25.95 - #200063) – lovely summery juicy grapefruit along with hay and grass; a pure sipping summer pleasure.  (****)

Domaine du Tremblay 2012 Cuvee Vin Noble Quincy ($20.95 - #375659) – soft citrus with lively yet juicy qualities all with a grapefruit cocktail finish.  (*** ½+)

France (Midi) …

Chateau Puech-Haut 2011 Prestige Saint-Drezery ($29.95 - #237289) – really full of fruit, touch of spice, plum, chocolate, black cherry and white pepper.  (****+)

Italy (Piedmont) …

Poderi Elia 2012 Moscato D’Asti ($15.95 - #211664) – love a good Asti with its sweet peachy pleasantries.  (*** ½+)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Mocali 2008 Brunello di Montalcino ($47.95 - #064956) – sweet dried cherries, herbal, smoke and spice with a full mouth feel.  (****+)

Rocca Delle Macie 2008 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano ($24.95 - #232488) – dried dark fruit and lots of spice, tannins still pack a punch.  (****)

Italy (Veneto) …

La Marca NV Prosecco ($17.95 - #287987) – nice hint of summery sweetness for the patio.  (*** ½) - SpWi

Valpantena 2011 Torre del Falasco Ripasso Valpolicella ($17.95 - #642421) – sweet cherry and chocolate with hints of strawberry.  (*** ½+)

Portugal …

Delaforce 2011 Touriga Nacional ($20.95 - #324517) – dark, inky and very drinkable: vanilla, strawberry with peppery spice.  (*** ½+)

Spain …

Conde de Haro 2010 Brut Cava ($19.95 - #168559) – man is this ever tasty with its apple, yeasty bits folded in with good acidity.  (****+) – SpWi

Elias Mora 2009 Crianza ($22.95 - #366815) – blackberry, black cherry and cocoa; plenty of sweet flavourful fruit with a cocoa core.  (****+)

United States (California) …

Atrea 2009 Old Soul Red ($33.95 - #214825) – pretty nose offering up plum, vanilla and cherry with sweet fruit on the palate.  (*** ½+)

J. Lohr 2011 Falcon’s Perch Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #361717) – it’s wine but it’s not very Pinot-esque; fruit is sweetly spiced with raspberry and cherry fruit, hints of white pepper and plum on the finish.  (*** ½+)

McManis 2012 Chardonnay ($19.95 - #265983) – plenty of vanilla, peach and pear, definitely a Chardonnay with nice acidity on the finish.  (****)

United States (Oregon) …

Argyle 2012 Pinot Noir ($31.95 – 909499) – cherry and herbal notes taking center stage, good acidity on the long spiced finish.  (****)

________________________________________

In-Store Discoveries – wines that just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet …

Giacomo Fenocchio 2009 Cannubi Barolo ($54.95 - #373399) – Piedmont - ****+

Jean-Claude Bessin 2011 La Foret Chablis 1er Cru ($37.95 - #373431) – Burgundy - ****

Merum Priorati Osmin 2006 ($74.95 - #357202) – Spain - ****+

Oldenburg 2011 Chardonnay ($22.95 - #374645) – South Africa - ****

Pascal Bouchard 2011 Montmains Vieilles Vignes Chablis 1er Cru ($37.95 - #374181) – Burgundy - ****

Spottswoode 2012 Sauvignon Blanc ($40.95 - #313593) – California - *** ½+

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

Caymus 2011 Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon ($138.95 - #711663) – California - ****

Charles de Cazanove Brut Rosé Champagne ($54.95 - #369108) – France - ****+ (SpWi)

Fleury Blanc de Noirs Brut Champagne ($54.95 - #368761) – France - *** ½+ (SpWi)

Kopke 20 Years Old Tawny Port ($56.95 - #368340) – Portugal - ****+

Mitolo 2009 Serpico Cabernet Sauvignon ($52.95 - #656599) – Spain - (****)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – April 26, 2014 …

Bailly Lapierre Reserve Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($19.95 - #991562) – France

Conde de Haro 2010 Brut Cava ($19.95 - #168559) – Spain 

Elias Mora 2009 Crianza ($22.95 - #366815) – Spain

Tawse 2012 Spark Limestone Ridge Sparkling Wine ($19.95 - #370361) – Ontario

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 April 12, 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 … Easter (ETR) and Italian Appassimento (APP)

The Skinny … Light load in the great wines to buy department, but the ones really worth buying are quite worth it.

Argentina …

Alamos 2013 Viognier ($13.95 - #507830) – rich and lively with pear and pineapple puree.  (*** ½+)

Catena 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #985002) – rich dark fruit, black and blue berries, vanilla, cocoa; just really delicious fruit.  (****+)

Trivento 2012 Amado Sur Malbec / Bonarda / Syrah ($16.95 - #037036) – juicy black cherry and cassis with hints of white pepper.  (*** ½+)

Australia …

Grant Burge 2012 5th Generation Shiraz ($18.95 - #361295) – I like the price while the wine is tasty with subtle black berry fruit.  (*** ½+)

Jim Barry 2010 The Cover Drive Cabernet Sauvignon ($26.95 - #677476) – great dark fruit with an element of spice to keep it truly honest.  (****)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Dirty Laundry 2011 Merlot ($31.95 - #366179) – soft and fruity with mainly blueberry and mocha keeping it together.  (*** ½+)

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

Featherstone 2013 Rosé ($14.95 - #117861) - *** ½+ (ETR)

Fielding Estate 2013 Sauvignon Blanc ($18.95 - #131235) – *** ½+

Lailey 2012 Chardonnay ($19.95 - #193482) - ****+ (ETR)

Rosewood Estates 2010 Reserve Pinot Noir ($39.95 - #318345) - ****+ (ETR)

Tawse 2011 Sketches Cabernet Merlot ($20.95 - #130252) - *** ½+

Chile …

Conchy y Toro 2008 Marques de Casa Concha Carmenere ($19.95 - #169862) – nicely spiced black and blue berries.  (*** ½+)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau La Croix de Gay 2010 ($49.85 - #259150) – smoky black fruit and cedar.  (****)

France (Burgundy) …

Georges DuBoeuf 2011 Clef du Bief Moulin A Vent ($24.95 - #371807) - gentle and easy with good fruit.  (*** ½+)

Italy (Abruzzo) …

Ulisse 2012 Unico Pecorino ($19.95 - #249128) – grilled pineapple rind, pineapple core and banana skin; light, crisp and delightful.  (****)

Italy (Piedmont) …

FontanaFredda 2012 Gavi di Gavi ($18.95 - #366948) – lemon and peach fight it out and the winner just happens to be you.  (*** ½+)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Caparzo 2011 Rosso di Montalcino ($19.95 - #333575) – pleasant and fruit driven; a classy little wine.  (****)

Podere Dell’Anselmo 2010 Chianti Montespertoli ($19.95 - #371690) – nicely spiced with cherry and blackberry, good herb and smoky notes too.  (****)

Italy (Veneto) …

Astoria 2012 Millesimato Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore ($21.95 - #369504) – nice sweetness, pleasant and summery.  (*** ½+)

Monte Zovo 2011 Sa’Solin Ripasso Valpolicella ($17.95 - #650713) – mocha, coffee and smoke rules the roost here.  (*** ½+) – APP

Speri 2011 Ripasso della Valpolicella Classico Superiore ($21.95 - #370353) – nice cherry core, which makes the wine clean and incredibly chuggable, but the acidity makes it food friendly.  (****) – APP

Tedeschi 2012 Capitel Nicalo Appassimento Valpolicella Superiore ($16.95 - #984997) – simplistic label does not mean simplistic wine; this one is loaded with flavour and good value.  (****+) – APP

Tenuta Sant’Antonio 2010 Selezione Antonio Castagnedi Amarone del Valpolicella Classico ($43.95 - #685107) – rich, robust, dark fruited and chocolaty.  (****+) – APP

Zenato 2010 Ripassa Valpolicella Superiore ($25.95 - #479766) – lots of juicy aspects here with black cherry, hints of chocolate with a touch of floral and fig.  (****) - APP

New Zealand …

Julicher 2010 99 Rows Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #367979) – spiced-black cherry, anise, and white smoke with good length.  (****)

Momo 2012 Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #009167) – bright and lively with grapefruit and lime zest.  (*** ½+)

Spain …

Williams & Humbert Walnut Brown Oloroso ($13.95 - #437467) – hazelnut and almond with caramel, spice, fig, great spicy and acid finish.  (****)

United States (California) …

Aquinas 2009 Philosopher’s Blend ($32.95 - #361899) – rich and succulent with a mix of red and black fruit, vanilla and cherry take charge on the finish.  (****)

Bridlewood 2012 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #361824) – lots of vanilla and juicy cherry, maybe too much for a Pinot, then spiced plum swings in to rescue the finish.  (*** ½+)

Handcraft 2011 Petite Sirah ($17.95 - #361907) – blueberry, white pepper, coffee, violets and spice notes with chocolaty elements amongst the peppery finish.  (****) 

La Crema 2012 Chardonnay ($37.95 - #067231) – creamy texture with subtle pith notes, firm mouthfeel with peach and some tropical fruit along with vanilla and spice.  (****)

Lander-Jenkins 2011 Spirit Hawk Chardonnay ($19.95 - #162651) – pretty mango / pineapple and vanilla with depth, nice character and quite mouth filling; quite tasty with good acid backbone for freshness.  (****+)

St. Francis 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #671164) – juicy blueberry and blackberry with hints of vanilla.  (****)

United States (Oregon) …

Bachelder 2011 Oregon Chardonnay ($29.95 - #273334) - a mixed bag of aromas and flavours, from smoke, mineral and baked peach on the nose to white butter and mineral stoniness on the palate … it’s a touch fat in the mouth, but with lovely flavour (*** ½).

Domaine Drouhin 2011 Pinot Noir ($45.95 - #961284) – flavourful black cherry and spiced-cranberry notes.  (*** ½+)

United States (Washington) …

L’Ecole No.41 2011 Red ($29.95 - #366237) – juicy, spicy and woodsy.  (*** ½+)

________________________________________

In-Store Discoveries – wines that just appear on the shelves of your local Vintages outlet …

Bollig-Lenhert 2005 Trittenheimer Apotheke Riesling Spatlese ($22.95 - #368787) – Germany - ****

Georges DuBoeuf 2011 Clef du Bief Moulin A Vent ($24.95 - #371807) -  Burgundy, France - *** ½+

JCB No. 21 Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($27.95 - #371831) – Burgundy, France - ****

Luce 2008 Brunello di Montalcino ($109.95 - #120881) – Tuscany, Italy - ****

Pali Alphabets 2011 Pinot Noir ($26.95 - #369835) – Washington, USA - *** ½+

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

Speri 2010 La Roggia Recioto Della Valpolicella Classico ($55.95 / 500ml - #366997) – Veneto, Italy - ****+

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – April 12, 2014 …

Catena 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #985002) – Argentina

Handcraft 2011 Petite Sirah ($17.95 - #361907) – California, USA

Lander-Jenkins 2011 Spirit Hawk Chardonnay ($19.95 - #162651) – California, USA

Tedeschi 2012 Capitel Nicalo Appassimento Valpolicella Superiore ($16.95 - #984997) – Veneto, Italy

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.