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.

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves October 26, 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 Star Wines (*** ½) …
Domaine Guy & Yvan Dufouleur Aux Saint Julien Nuits Saint Georges 2010 ($54.95 - #254290) – Burgundy, France

Three-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Ruinart R De Ruinart Brut Champagne ($77.95 - #189878) ... Champagne, France
Jakob Schneider 2011 Niederhauser Klamm Riesling Kabinett ($23.95 - #347294) ... Germany
Catena Zapata 2009 Argentino Malbec ($109.95 - #170035) ... Argentina
Cuvelier Los Andes 2006 Grand Vin ($39.95 - #149831) ... Argentina
Trapiche 2009 Terroir Series Single Vineyard Malbec ($39.95 - #261040) ... Argentina
Glaetzer 2010 Amon-Ra Shiraz ($75.95 - #58032) ... Australia
Olivier LeFlaive 2009 Charmois Saint Aubin 1er Cru ($51.95 - #354241) – Burgundy, France

Four Star Wines (****) …
Ruinart Brut Rosé Champagne ($98.95 - #662536) ... Champagne, France
Oliver’s 2010 Taranga Vineyards Shiraz ($39.95 - #191643) ... Australia
Domaine Antonin Guyon Corton Bressandes Grand Cru 2010 ($85.00 - #073668) ... Burgundy, France

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Ramos Pinto 30 Year Old Tawny Port ($103.95 - #250795) ... Portugal
Banfi 2009 Cuvee Aurora Rosé ($24.95 - #355693) ... Piedmont, Italy
Dunn 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($109.95 - #709501) ... California, USA

Four-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (**** ½+) …
Kopke 1984 Colheita Port ($68.95 - #726877) … Portugal
Casanova di Nera 2007 Tenuta Nuova Brunello di Montalcino ($88.00 - #85241) – Tuscany, Italy

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

Saturday October 12, 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 … Oh look, it’s another California release (CALI) and an odd “Terroir Talk of Piedmont and Burgundy (TT)

The Skinny … a disappointing white line up but there are some really good Spanish offerings in the red department

Australia …

Chambers Rosewood Rutherglen Muscat ($19.95 / 375ml - #711622) – distinctly sherry-esque with honey, hazelnut and spice. (****+)

Chapel Hill 2011 Parson’s Nose Shiraz ($19.95 - #339705) – nice fruit and gentle spice. (*** ½+)

Wynns Coonawarra Estate 2010 Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon ($27.95 - #084996) – juicy dark fruit, good spice with black currant with 70% cocoa and spice. (*** ½+)

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

Coffin Ridge 2011 Marquette ($27.00 - #359463) … ****

Featherstone 2011 Cabernet Franc ($16.95 - #064618) … ****

Georgian Hills 2010 Ida Red Frozen to the Core ($19.95 / 375ml - #359380) … *** ½

Peninsula Ridge 2011 Reserve Meritage ($18.95 - #299180) … *** ½

WildAss 2011 Red ($19.95 - #086363) … ****+

Chile …

Cono Sur 2011 20 Barrels Limited Edition Pinot Noir ($27.95 - #684530) – pretty with floral and sweet and dark fruit, namely raspberry with a light touch of cherry and herbal notes; nice long finish. (****)

France (Alsace) …

Charles Sparr Cuvee Renaissance Brut Rose Cremant d’Alsace ($19.95 - #350306) – pleasantly cherry and raspberry with citrus and lemon. (****)

France (Beaujolais) …

Chateau de Saint-Lager 2011 Brouilly ($19.95 - #330027) – hello black cherry with hints of anise. (*** ½+)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Haut Daugay 2006 ($22.95 - #348268) – smoky tobacco and cranberry with hints of dried cherry. (*** ½+)

Chateau Pedesclaux 2009 ($46.85 - #192104) – dark cocoa, blackberry, vanilla oak and black cherry, nice spicy finish. (****)

France (Burgundy) …

Aurelien Verdet 2010 Morey-Saint-Denis ($44.95 - #354316) – cranberry, cherry elegance with an herbal backdrop. (****) - TT

France (Loire) …

Henri Bourgeois 2012 Petit Bourgeois Sauvignon Blanc ($14.95 - #672345) – more goosy than grassy, but both are there. (*** ½+)

Paul Prieur et Fils 2011 Sancerre ($25.95 - #350421) – herbal sweetness with a touch of wild flower honey and grapefruit pulp.  (****)

France (Midi) …

Domaine Lafage 2011 Cuvee Centenaire ($17.95 - #343491) – floral, grapefruit cocktail, a soft, supple texture with hints of citrus acidity on the finish. (*** ½+)

Mont Tauch Le Tauch Fitou 2010 ($19.95 - #272484) – dark fruit and nicely spiced. (*** ½+)

Tessellae 2011 Carignan Old Vines Cotes du Roussillon ($18.95 - #343517) – dark raspberry and cherry, hints of violets and plums; quite tasty. (****)

France (Rhone) …

Coudoulet de Beaucastel Cotes-du-Rhone 2011 ($29.95 - #048884) – smooth and silky with plenty of red and black fruit. (****+)

Domaine la Fourmone 2010 Tresor du Poete Vacqueyras ($22.95 - #194704) – nice rich herbal quality with pipe tobacco and dried cherry. (*** ½+)

Domaine Les Aphillanthes 2010 Cuvee Les Galets Plan de Dieu Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($19.95 - #252270) – nice balance of smoke to fruit, dark and red with plenty of spice to keep it honest. (****)

Italy (Piedmont) …

Bocchino Giuseppi Arduine Barbera D’Asti 2011 ($16.95 - #975136) – very cherry, red berry and juicy. (*** 1/2)

Giacosa 2008 Bussia Barolo ($39.95 - #344721) – pleasant herbal, easy drinking with the right amount of tannin/oak combo. (****) – TT

Pertinance 2009 Nervo Barbaresco ($39.95 - #344705) – oak and herbal but with great cranberry notes. (*** ½+) - TT

Italy (Tuscany) …

Cavalli Tenuta Degli Dei 2009 ($49.95 - #350405) – shows potential for the future but drinks well now; silky tannins with the right amount of umph. (****)

Lamole di Lamole 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva ($37.95 - #231241) – time should mellow and bring out the fruit nose it’s pretty oak and licorice driven with red fruit hanging around the background. (****)

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia 2011 ($29.95 - #964221) – nice dark fruit with chocolate nuances, hints of tobacco on the mid-palate and sweet fruited with oak vanilla backing; nicely balanced. (****+)

San Lorenzo Bramante Brunello di Montalcino 2007 ($47.95 - #350264) – nice bit of sweet oak amongst the clove, cinnamon and herbs, tobacco also shows up. (****+)

Ser Dante 2009 Riserva Chianti ($20.95 - #350280) – fruit leather and spice with tobacco tones on the finish. (*** ½+)

Italy (Veneto) …

Tommasi 2011 Arele Parziale Appassimento ($17.95 - #224188) – smoky cocoa and black cherry. (*** ½+)

New Zealand …

Dog Point 2012 Sauvignon Blanc ($22.95 - #677450) – plenty of grassy and grapefruit all passed over a stone. (****)

Spain …

Borsao 2011 Tres Picos Garnacha ($19.95 - #273748) – plush, silky smooth with big alcohol (15%), plumy and chocolaty with black cherry. (****)

Finca Valdelroble 2009 ($20.95 - #344291) – nice balance of fruit, vanilla, cocoa provides finish and black licorice on the mid-palate. (****)

Luis Canas Seleccion de la Familia Reserva 2005 ($34.95 - #334102) – really rich nose leads to a dark fruit driven palate all with good spice. (****)

Monteabellon 5 Meses en Barrica ($19.95 - #338871) – vanilla oak, blackberry and cocoa, sweet cherry, black raspberry nice backbone of tannin and spice. (****+)

Osborne Pedro Ximenez 1827 Premium Sweet Sherry ($17.95 - #47944) – pecan and caramel, a sweetie that good for those cold winter nights to come. (**** ½)

Pinyolet 2010 Seleccion ($25.95 - #338897) – pretty full with plum and blackberry and hints of cassis. (*** ½+)

Torres 2010 Salmos ($36.95 - #060772) – lots of lovely fruit and smoke, plus vanilla, cinnamon and tea leaves. (****+)

United States (California) …

Hall 2009 Merlot ($39.95 - #904532) – juicy Merlot with mocha, blueberry and pleasant spice. (*** ½+) - CALI

Kendall Jackson 2012 Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay ($19.95 - #369686) – nice vanilla buttery-ness with caramelized peach. (*** ½+)

Louis M. Martini 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #232371) – juicy raspberry and cherry with hints of cedar and vanilla. (****) - CALI

Napa Cellars 2011 Zinfandel ($21.95 - #126607) – sweet fruited and juicy with touches of cherry cola, vanilla and raspberry. (*** ½+) - CALI

William Hill 2012 Chardonnay ($27.95 - #988840) – some might consider this bland but that’s because the oak does not scream out at you, instead the balance of fruit and oak is so delicate you barely notice it. (****+) - CALI

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

Barlow 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($62.95 - #147637) – CALI – ****+

Chateau Haut-Bergey 2009 ($51.85 - #194563) - *** ½+

Chateau Tronquoy-Lalande 2009 ($59.85 - #195602) - ****

Corison 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($113.95 - #333328) – CALI – ****

Faiveley 2010 Nuits-Saint-Georges ($53.95 - #344903) – TT – ****

Heitz Cellar 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($83.95 - #642124) – CALI – ****

Sette Ponti 2010 Oreno ($71.95 - #735597) - ****+

Shafer 2011 Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay ($67.95 - #045583) – CALI – ****

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – October 12, 2013 …

Monteabellon 5 Meses en Barrica ($19.95 - #338871) – Spain

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves October 12, 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.

14 wines are being released, here are scores for 5 of them.

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

Henri de Villamont 2011 Saint-Aubin Les Chamlots 1er Cru ($33.95 - #354324)) ... Burgundy, France

Four Star Wines (****) …

Jose Maria da Fonseca & Van Zeller 2003 Vintage Port ($24.95 - #0638924) ... Portugal

Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut Champagne ($40.95 - #234104) ... Champagne, France

Chateau de Beaucastel 2012 Coudoulet de Beaucastel Blanc ($33.95 - #048892) ... Rhone, France

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …

Alain Voge 2011 Les Chailles Cornas ($51.95 - #320127) ... Rhone, France

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

Saturday October 27, 2012 - 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.

Foci ... California (CAL) and Bordeaux (BOR), plus some large format gifting (GIFT) wines.

The Skinny ... sad to say that the Bordeaux wines offered better value than their US counterparts.

Argentina ...

Clos de los Siete 2009 ($21.95 - #622571) - delivers on fruit, spice and vanilla and there seems to be a juiciness developing. (****)

Lindaflor 2007 Malbec ($42.95 - #109322) - inky black in colur, violet aromas with black cherry, blackberry, cassis and spice.  (*** 1/2+)

Trapiche 2007 Fincas Las Palmas Malbec ($17.95 - #186668) - lovely cherry and spice, hints of chocolate and vanilla with a raspberry linger. (****+)

Australia ...

Langmeil Blacksmith Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 ($24.95 - #644039) - chocolate, plum, black cherry with good spice, full in the mouth. (****+)

Canada (Ontario) ...

Coyote's Run 2011 Red Paw Vineyard Pinot Gris ($17.95 - #116582) - ****+

Lailey 2010 Merlot ($25.00 - #591396) - *** 1/2+

Malivoire 2010 Albert's Honour Old Vines Foch ($24.95 - #551036) - *** 1/2

Mike Weir 2010 Sauvignon Blanc ($14.95 - #686972) - *** 1/2+

Peninsula Ridge 2010 AJ Lepp Vineyards Reserve Merlot ($19.95 - #299222) - ****+

Stratus 2007 Red ($99.95 / 1500ml - #291088) - **** 1/2 - GIFT

Chile ...

Concha y Toro 2009 Terrunyo Block 27 Vineyard Selection Carmenere ($29.95 - #562892) - fruit and chocolate mix with sweet blackberry jam and cassis; real silky smoothness on the palate. (*** 1/2+)

Santa Carolina 2009 Reserva de Familia Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #684597) - minty dark fruit, chocolate, cassis, and framboise, but you can't get away from that minty character. (*** 1/2+)

France (Beaujolais) ...

Louis Jadot 2009 Chateau des Jacques Morgon ($23.95 - #653584) - good black cherry with nice acidity and mild tannins. (*** 1/2+)

France (Bordeaux) ...

Chateau de L'Estang 2009 ($18.95 - #0191551) - quite a lovely easy drinking Bordeaux with vanilla and cherry; smooth and satisfyingly simple. (****+) - BOR

Chateau la Croix Chaigneau 2009 ($23.95 - #173278) - nice flavour with decent tannins, dark cherry, spice and smoke with a wooden-cherry finish. (****) - BOR

Chateau la Gravette Lacombe 2009 ($19.95 - #295808) - smoky and licorice notes, more intense than others at this price point. (****) - BOR

Chateau Larose Trintaudon 2009 ($24.95 - #297945) - licorice, blackberry and cherry. (****) - BOR

Chateau Lestruelle 2009 ($18.95 - #295840) - vanilla, cinnamon, cherry, blackberry and really nice spice. (****+) - BOR

Chateau Toumilon Blanc 2009 ($16.95 - #314864) - fresh and clean with hints of lime and peach pit. (*** 1/2) - BOR

Chateau Teyssier 2009 ($39.95 - #303784) - nicely spiced, fruit, garigue, coffee, mocha and a spicy finish. (****) - BOR

France (Burgundy) ...

Jean-Marc Brocard 2008 Kimmeridgian Chardonnay ($17.95 - #290049) - mineral, apple core and lemon zest. (*** 1/2+)

Roger Belland 2009 Santenay-Commes 1er Cru ($33.95 - #725549) - smoky cigar, smoked meat, cinnamon and plenty of tannin. (*** 1/2+)

France (Midi) ...

Domaine Puig-Parahy 2010 Cuvee Georges ($15.95 - #171025) - funny aromas  of spice, but the palate is very satisfying with herbs and spice amongst plum and blackberry. (****)

Hecht & Bannier 2010 Minervois ($19.95 - #17764) - lots of dark fruit and chocolate, the 14.5% alcohol makes it smooth across the palate. (****)

France (Rhone) ...

Delas Freres Saint-Esprit Cotes du Rhone 2010 ($15.95 - #729962) - nicely layered with chocolate, plum, licorice and oak. (****)

Domaine Cros de Romet Cairanne Cotes du Rhone Villages 2010 ($21.95 - #42986) - there's a sweetness on the mid palate that's rather appealing. (****)

Mas des Bressades 2011 Cuvee Tradition Blanc ($14.95 - #701094) - you gotta like citrus to like this one, especially the rind. (*** 1/2)

Germany ...

Dr. Loosen 2011 Red Slate Riesling Dry ($19.95 - #295923) - and the good doctor means dry, very dry; mineral dominates here with spice and hints of green apple; not your usual German Riesling here. (****)

Italy (Piedmont) ...

Demaria 2007 Barbera D'alba Superiore ($15.95 - #290098) - flavourful dark fruited Barbera with smoky-cigar box notes. (*** 1/2+)

Marchesi di Barolo 2011 Gavi di Gavi ($19.95 - #155382) - grapefruit rind with good acidity. (*** 1/2)

Poderi Colla Dardi 2007 Le Rose Bussia Barolo ($49.95 - #596890) - nice dried cherry and spice with white pepper backing. (*** 1/2+)

Italy (Puglia) ...

Solantico 2009 Riserva Salice Salentino ($14.95 - #289694) - plum and dark berries, really nice fruit here. (*** 1/2+)

Italy (Tuscany) ...

Antinori 2008 Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva ($29.95 - #512384) - pretty hefty and smoky wine with licorice, herbs, dark fruit and plenty of tannins. (****)

Fattoi 2007 Brunello di Montalcino ($34.95 - #33498) - while it starts dry it does have a plump fruit finish. (*** 1/2+)

Italy (Veneto) ...

Bisol Crede Brut Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Superiore ($19.95 - #297242) - crisp and refreshing with a touch of sweetness; easy to drink. (*** 1/2)

Lena di Mezzo 2009 Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore ($17.00 - #165662) - juicy and fruit Ripasso with lots of flavour to spare; sitting and sipping will not be a problem with this cherry and plum number. (****)

Tedeschi 2011 Filadonna Pinot Grigio ($15.95 - #295881) - pith-based flavours: lemon and grapefruit. (*** 1/2)

New Zealand ...

Jules Taylor 2011 Sauvignon Blanc ($19.95 - #224428) - restraint New Zealand-style, has gooseberry and some tropical notes of pineapple and passion-fruit. (****+)

Seresin 2009 Chardonnay ($24.95 - #19190) - keeps its fruit with enough barrel notes to make it seem elegant on the palate, plus there's the long lasting vanilla / toffee finish. (****)

Portugal ...

Meandro do Vale Meao 2009 ($22.95 - #244731) - it'll be worth it after a few years of cellaring, the plum and black cherry will come around; needs decanting now. (****)

Vidigal 2007 Reserva Touriga Nacional ($16.95 - #293456) - plenty of blackberry and plum with a touch of herbal essence. (*** 1/2+)

South Africa ...

Melk's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($15.95 - #294306) - fruit drive with black cherry and plum leading the charge. (*** 1/2)

Spain ...

Senda 2008 66 Tempranillo ($13.95 - #296475) - dark and brooding fruit with nice coffee and chocolate notes. (*** 1/2+)

United States (California) ...

Beringer 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.95 - #91058) - blackberry, cassis and chocolate, a real mosaic of flavours. (****)

Brazin (B)old Vine Zinfandel ($19.95 - #256750) - nice plum, cherry, spice, vanilla and licorice. (****)

Conundrum 2010 Red ($23.95 - #294298) - plum, cherry, and other sweet fruits of the red persuasion, simplistic and over-priced but tasty. (*** 1/2)

Emmolo 2008 Merlot ($35.95 - #96024) - chocolate, blueberry and spice with hints of mocha on the finish. (****) - CAL

Fess Parker 2010 Viognier ($24.95 - #297523) - exotic and fleshy, floral, tropical with a touch of sweetness. (*** 1/2+)

Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut Sparkling Wine ($26.95 - #192898) - has a nice peach skin taste with balancing acidity. (*** 1/2+)

Ironstone 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #537597) - raspberry, blackberry, vanilla and cherry; a real every day pleaser. (****) - CAL

Melville 2010 Verna's Estate Pinot Noir ($34.95 - #291021) - juicy raspberry, cherry, bright red fruit with good acidity on the finish; contagiously drinkable. (****) - CAL

United States (Oregon) ...

Chehalem 2009 3-Vineyard Pinot Noir ($31.95 - #949909) - juicy sour cherry, cranberry and raspberry. (****)

If You Can Afford It ... wines worthy their lofty price tag

Antinori 2009 Solaia ($251.95 - #987586) - **** 1/2+

Chateau Montelena Estate 20008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($144.95 - #709881) - ****+ - CAL

Far Niente 2010 Chardonnay ($74.95 - #539130) - *** 1/2+

Goldeneye 2009 Pinot Noir ($59.95 - #659854) - *** 1/2+ - CAL

Hauts de Pontet-Canet 2009 ($54.85 - #194548) - ****+ - BOR

Moet & Chandon 2002 Grand Vintage Brut Champagne ($81.95 - #69773) - ****+

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars 2008 Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon ($51.95 - #708982) - **** - CAL

What I'll Be Lining Up For - October 27, 2012 ...

Dr. Loosen 2011 Red Slate Riesling Dry ($19.95 - #295923) – Germany

Chateau Lestruelle 2009 ($18.95 - #295840) – France

Langmeil Blacksmith Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 ($24.95 - #644039) - Australia

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Vintages Shop Online October 18, 2012 Release

8 of 12 products reviewed, the other 4 were either not available for tasting or tasted at all - no notes just scores, though the top scoring wine does have a note ...

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** 1/2) ...
Inniskillin Okanagan 2007 Discovery Series Petit Verdot ($28.00 - #303768) ... British Columbia, Canada
Delas Freres Francois de Tournon Saint-Joseph 2009 ($33.00 - #17525) ... Rhone, France
Tedeschi 2007 La Fabriseria Valpolicella Classico Superiore ($29.00 0 #97600)  ... Veneto, Italy

Four Star Wines (****) ...
Edmond Briottet Creme de Cassis de Dijon ($N/A - #306522) ... France
Santa Carolina 2007 Herencia Carmenere ($99.95 - #228387) ... Chile
Jim Barry 1999 The McRae Wood Museum Release Shiraz ($65.00 - #237669) ... Australia
Domaine de la Vieille Julienne 2009 Chateauneuf-de-Pape ($73.00 - #303032) ... Rhone, France

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) ...
Pintas 2008 Character ($36.00 - #292599) ... Portugal - lovely dark fruit and good spice notes while a mineral character finds its way through all those rich and robust flavours.

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

Vintages Shop Online October 4, 2012 Release

9 of 12 products tasted, the other 3 were not available for tasting - no notes just scores, though the top scoring wine has a note ...

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** 1/2) ...
D'Angelo 2006 Sette Coppa ($N/A - #0307728) ... British Columbia, Canada

Three-and-a Half Plus Star Wines (*** 1/2+) ...
Gustave Lorentz Rotenberg Gewurztraminer 2008 ($N/A - #0296129) ... Alsace, France

Four Star Wines (****) ...
Wegler Rudesheimer Berg Rottland Riesling Spatlese 2010 ($N/A - #918771) ... Germany
Shottesbrooke Estate Series 2010 Shiraz ($N/A - #297424) ... Australia
Avondale 2009 Cyclus ($N/A - #295220) ... South Africa
Tenuta Rocca 2007 Barolo San Pietro ($N/A - #103721) ... Piedmont, Italy
San Polo 2007 Brunello di Montalcino ($N/A - #650812) ... Tuscany, Italy

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) ...
Alvaro Palacios 2010 Les Terrasses ($N/A - #977843) ... Spain
Mendel 2009 Unus ($N/A - #108233) ... Argentina - plush and lovely on the palate; very full-fruited with plum, black cherry and a whole lotta spice.

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

Saturday October 13, 2012 - 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.

Foci ... Chile (CH) and Australia (AUS)

The Skinny ... some good stuff from Italy (again), and the closer we get to Christmas the more the expensive wines start to rear their necks and corks.

Australia ...

John Duval 2008 Entity Shiraz ($49.95 - #73056) - deep, dark and delicious with a chocolate seam that delights. (**** 1/2) - AUS

Kellermeister 2010 Boots Shiraz ($19.95 - #297093) - all jammy red fruit. (*** 1/2)

Oakridge 2010 Pinot Noir ($38.95 - #284059) - nicely balanced with good full-bodied pinot character, jammy with a touch of the lean red berries and spice. (*** 1/2+) - AUS

Paxton 2010 AAA Shiraz/Grenache ($19.95 - #149898) - good fruit with licorice, blackberry and a touch of mocha. (****) - AUS

Spinifex 2010 Bete Noir Shiraz ($49.95 - #284141) - good red fruit smokiness. (*** 1/2) - AUS

Spinifex 2010 Papillon Grenache/Cinsault/Carignan/Shiraz ($29.95 - #285205) - lovely blend full of rich dark fruit and boysenberry jam; dry finish. (****) - AUS

Canada (Ontario) ...

Henry of Pelham 2010 Gamay ($14.95 - #291112) - *** 1/2

Reif 2010 Vidal Icewine ($24.95 / 200ml - #544791) - *** 1/2+

Stratus 2009 Semillon ($32.20 - #306027) - *** 1/2+

Chile ...

Augustinos 2010 Gran Terroir Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #296616) - pretty nose of violets, raspberry and strawberry which follows onto the palate with touch of white pepper and wood spice. (****+) - CH

Korta 2010 Barrel Selection Reserve Petit Verdot ($14.95 - #296608) - lots of peppery notes with brambly berry dark fruit. (*** 1/2) - CH

Leyda 2011 Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc ($16.95 - #99309) - grass dominates here though it is fresh and lingering. (*** 1/2+) - CH

Miguel Torres 2011 Cordillera de los Andes Chardonnay ($18.95 - #296624) - vanilla, apple, pleasant fruitiness with a touch of wood notes, creamy and nicely textured, good acidity on the finish. (****) - CH

Tres Palacios 2008 Family Vintage Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #299743) - minty with sweet cran-raspberry; smooth and supple. (*** 1/2) - CH

France (Bordeaux) ...

Chateau Bonnin Pichon 2008 ($16.95 - #280008) - plum, cherry, smoke, mocha and licorice; a good combination. (*** 1/2+)

France (Burgundy) ...

Bailly Lapierre Reserve Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($17.95 - #991562) - delicate fizz with lively bubbles on the tongue, juicy yet crisp, quaffable in that sparkling wine kinda way with a long biscuity finish. (****+)

Maison Roche de Bellene 2010 Vieilles Vignes Gevrey-Chambertin ($44.95 - #240424) - red fruit and nicely spiced cranberry-cocktail. (*** 1/2)

France (Rhone) ...

Cave de Rasteau 2009 La Domeliere Rasteau ($15.95 - #222927) - red berry, touch of smoke, quite lush. (*** 1/2)

Cave de Rasteau 2007 Ortas Prestige Rasteau ($19.95 - #985929) - peppered-mocha. (*** 1/2)

Coudoulet de Beaucastel 2010 ($29.95 - #48884) - violets, plum, cherry, nicely spiced, easy drinking; the smells and flavours are top-notch. (****+)

Germany ...

H. Thanisch Bernkastler Badstube Riesling Spatlese 2010 ($24.95 - #295667) - very pretty Riesling: limestone, melon. poached pear sweetness with acid balance. (*** 1/2)

Italy (Abruzzo) ...

Terra D'Aligi 2007 Tolos Montepulciano D'Abruzzo ($29.95 - #19166) - dark as night, rich as good coffee. (*** 1/2+)

Italy (Piedmont) ...

Marchesi di Barolo 2006 Barolo ($34.95 - #168179) - lightly spiced tobacco with a nice cherry note. (*** 1/2)

Sobrero Ciabot Tanasio Barolo 2007 ($39.95 - #286070) - nice dried red berries, tree bark and cedar-vanilla. (*** 1/2+)

Italy (Puglia) ...

Gladiator 2010 Primitivo di Manduria ($16.95 - #23119) - plummy, raspberry, sweet cherry and vanilla. (*** 1/2+)

Italy (Tuscany) ...

Frascole 2009 Chianti Rufina ($16.95 - #85167) - sweet red fruit and herbs. (*** 1/2)

Ornellaia 2010 Le Volte ($29.95 - #964221) - juicy and fruity, nice tannins, black cherry, coffee and cedar. (****)

Italy (Veneto) ...

Masi 2008 Grandarella ($24.95 - #606921) - very well spiced mocha/coffee; very tasty. (****)

Paladin Tondo Dry Prosecco ($17.95 - #299834) - pleasant, almost sweet fruited with apples, pears and lemonade notes. (*** 1/2)

Pra 2011 Soave Classico ($19.95 - #74534) - refreshing with nice citrus zest. (*** 1/2)

Tedeschi 2007 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($20.95 / 375ml - #695395) - mocha, blackberry, tobacco and black currants. (****)

Zenato 2009 Sergio Zenato Lugana ($26.95 -- #928218) - rich in the mouth with nice texture, nice touch with the flint and apple. (****)

Japan ...

Green River Sparkling Star Sake ($16.95 / 500ml - #273359) - crisp entry with a creamy texture all with an underlying taste of sticky rice. (*** 1/2)

New Zealand ...

Giesen 2010 The Brothers Sauvignon Blanc ($19.95 - #247213) - nice and tangy with orange zest and grapefruit pith. (*** 1/2+)

Seresin 2008 Raupo Creek Single Vineyard Pinot Noir ($45.95 - #285379) - pretty wine with mocha, spice, cranberry, raspberry and strawberry all leading to a lovely smoky finish. (****)

Sileni 2009 The Triangle Merlot ($18.95 - #586081) - nice fruitness here, a subtle mix of red berries and herbs with a hint of chocolate for good measure. (****)

Wither Hills 2011 Single Vineyard Raranngi Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #288134) - toned back New Zealand-style, quite pleasant. (*** 1/2)

Portugal ...

Pocas Special Reserve Tawny Port ($15.95 - #286229) - nicely spice tawny that retains a lot of red fruit action while still doling out spiced caramel and orange peel notes. (****)

Quinta de Baixo 2008 Tinto ($14.95 - #293415) - coffee, plum, sour cherry, hint of mocha; nice wine for the price. (*** 1/2+)

Quinta dos Roques Vinho Tinto ($15.95 - #986075) - plum, black cherry, gentle cedar and some cocoa. (*** 1/2+)

South Africa ...

Goats do Roam 2011 The Goatfather ($14.95 - #0011072) - best Goatfather in a long while, smooth and supple, easy drinking with herbed dark and red fruit and only a touch of tar on the finish; well-priced. (****)

Spice Route 2009 Chakalaka ($24.95 - #160481) - not overly spicy just darn good; nice black currant, blackberry, licorice and mocha. (*** 1/2+)

Spain ...

Bula 2009 ($17.95 - #292094) - nice peppery-chocolate, plum, black cherry, with a moch/coffee finish. (****)

Cal Blanca 2009 ($18.95 - #292003) - mocha, licorice, pepper and spice, along with dark fruit and power on the palate. (****)

Lan 2004 Gran Reserva ($27.95 - #928622) - tobacco leaf, cherry and all-spice. (*** 1/2+)

Mania 2011 Verdejo ($13.95 - #297135) - tastes like a cross between the grapefruit pith of Sauvignon Blanc and the pea pod affect of Gruner, quite refreshing. (*** 1/2+)

Osborne Pedro Ximenez 1827 Premium Sweet Sherry ($17.95 - #47944) - I know it says "Sherry" on the label but this is not your Grandma's sipping Sherry, this is a sweet raisin pie inspired treat with amber honey note; creamy and delicious. (**** 1/2)

Palacios de Sada 2008 Crianza ($13.95 - #246736) - spiced plum and raspberry. (*** 1/2+)

Pedro Martinez 2006 Alexanco Reserva ($17.95 - #170092) - mocha, raspberry and vanilla-spice. (****)

United States (California) ...

Belle Glos 2010 Clark & Telephone Vineyard Pinot Noir ($39.95 - #652883) - with a richness of fruit, namely blackberry and raspberry, and some tautness on the palate this is one great Cab, I mean Pinot. (****+)

Cannonball 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($21.95 - #291666) - big, juicy number with good herbal notes. (*** 1/2)

Frank Family Vineyards 2010 Chardonnay ($33.95 - #289140) - buttery and soft with some toffee, apricot and peach notes; nice Cali-Chard here. (*** 1/2+)

Hess Collection 2008 19-Block Cuvee ($44.95 - #18879) - chocolate, cherry and white pepper. (*** 1/2+)

La Crema 2010 Pinot Noir ($31.95 - #719435) - a loveliness of fruit, red licorice, raspberry, cherry and strawberry with hints of pepper on the finish. Also available in half bottles. (****)

Ravenswood 2008 Teldeschi Single Vineyard Zinfandel ($44.95 - #684589) - plum, vanilla and cherry; big and juicy with good spice notes. (****+)

Terra Valentine 2009 Spring Mountain District Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon ($47.95 - #269431) - juicy wine bursting with blackberries, plum, chocolate and other ripe dark fruit. (*** 1/2+)

United States (Oregon) ...

Brandberg 2008 Bench Lands Pinot Noir ($28.95 - #295238) - gently spiced; nice sour black sour on both nose and palate. (*** 1/2+)

Sokol Blosser 2010 Pinot Noir ($34.95 - #748434) - 100-times better than the Blosser that was introduced to the General List; light strawberry and nicely herba. (*** 1/2)

United States (Washington) ...

Three Rivers 2009 River's Red ($19.95 - #287433) - juicy of fruit, gentle of spice, tasty all over. (*** 1/2+)

If You Can Afford It - wines that deliver, even for their high price ..

Bollinger Brut Special Cuvee ($69.95 - #384529) - ****

E. Guigal 2006 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($51.95 - #727503) - ****+

Grgich Hills Estate 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($74.95 - #0071407) - *** 1/2+

Michele Castellani 2007 Cinque Stelle Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($54.95 - #75127) - ****+

Silver Oak 2007 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($85-95 - #943472) - ****

What I'll Be Lining Up For - October 13, 2012 ...

Osborne Pedro Ximenez 1827 Premium Sweet Sherry ($17.95 - #47944) - Spain

Goats do Roam 2011 The Goatfather ($14.95 - #0011072) - South Africa

Bailly Lapierre Reserve Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($17.95 - #991562) - France

Miguel Torres 2011 Cordillera de los Andes Chardonnay ($18.95 - #296624) - 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.

Vintages Shop Online October 20, 2011 Release

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Vintages Shop Online October 6, 2011 Release

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Saturday October 15, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Argentina … 

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

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

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

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

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

Australia … 

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

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

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

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

Austria …

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

Canada …

(Ontario)

Fielding 2010 Pinot Gris ($21.95 - #0251108)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chile …

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

France … 

(Alsace)

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

(Beaujolais)

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

(Burgundy)

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

(Loire)

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

Greece …

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

Italy …

(Piedmont)

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

(Puglia)

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

(Sicily)

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

(Tuscany)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Romania …

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

South Africa ...

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

United States … 

(California)

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Oregon)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chateau Troplong Mondot 2007 ($115.00 - #0102715)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Shopping.

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

Saturday October 1, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Argentina … 

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

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

Australia … 

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

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

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

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

Canada …

(British Columbia)

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

(Ontario)

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

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

(Quebec)

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

Chile …

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

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

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

France … 

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

(Beaujolais)

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

(Burgundy)

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

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

(Loire)

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

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

(Midi)

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

(Rhone)

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

Germany …

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

Italy …

(Piedmont)

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

(Veneto)

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

New Zealand … 

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

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

Portugal …

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

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

South Africa ...

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

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

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

United States … 

(California)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Oregon)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Shopping.

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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