Saturday September 28, 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 … Thanksgiving (THX); Premium Chile (PCh); and Tuscany (TUS)

The Skinny … Lots of good French wines being released and some nice wines in the Tuscan release, plus a really tasty Portuguese wine from Duorum.

Argentina …

Catena 2010 Alta Malbec ($49.95 - #982355) – rich, intense and hedodistic. (****+)

Graffigna 2012 Centenario Late Harvest Malbec ($14.95 / 500ml - #322719) – ripe, rich raspberry sweetness. (*** ½+)

Paiman 2011 Reserva Tannat ($19.95 - #342048) – nice dark fruit with licorice notes. (****)

La Posta 2011 Pizzella Family Vineyard Malbec ($15.95 - #166298) – good value Malbec with blueberry, spice, vanilla and chocolate could swear it was Merlot if not for the herbal and spice. (****)

Australia …

D’Arenberg 2010 D’Arry’s Original Shiraz/Grenache ($19.95 - #942904) – always and interesting blend; there’s a violet note on the nose with blackberry, plum and pepper on the palate. (****)

Mollydooker 2010 Two Left Feet ($29.95 - #327106) – lots of spice, pepper and dark, dark brooding fruit. (****+)

Pirramimma 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.95 - #730374) – rich dark fruit and chocolate, touches of smoke play in the background. (****)

Sister’s Run 2011 Cow’s Corner Grenache/Shiraz/Mataro ($15.95 - #346510) – has a lot going for it, and the nice part is that it’s not all about the fruit here. (*** ½+)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Burrowing Owl 2009 Merlot ($41.95 - #585737) – chocolate mixed with plum and raspberry along with touches of vanilla and smoke. (****)

Sumac Ridge 2008 Steller’s Jay Brut Sparkling Wine ($25.95 - #264879) – dry with pear, apple and nice minerality; there’s also a nice biscotti finish. (*** ½+)

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

Angels Gate 2011 Mountainview Merlot ($18.95 - #299172) - *** ½+ (THX)

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

Chateau des Charmes 2009 Vidal Icewine ($25.95/200ml - #565861) - **** (THX)

Inniskillin 2012 Reserve Pinot Gris ($19.95 - #177766) - *** ½

Tawse 2012 Sketches of Niagara Riesling ($17.95 - #089029) - *** ½+ (THX)

Chile …

Matetic Corralillo Sauvignon Blanc 2012 ($13.95 - #347740) – grassy and hay focused with plenty of grapefruit. (*** ½+)

France (Alsace) …

Cave de Beblenheim 2011 Heimberger Gewurztaminer ($19.95 - #196642) – spicy with mellowed rose petal, delicate and delicious with a white pepper finish. (****)

Joseph Cattin Cremant D’Alsace Brut ($16.95 - #281329) – fresh, light and full of apple-y goodness; crisp and lovely. (****)

France (Beaujolais) …

Pascal Aufranc Vignes de 1939 Chenas 2011 ($17.95 - #329987) – lovely black cherry aromas and flavours; good acidity and chalkiness on the finish. (****)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Ampelia 2009 ($21.85 - #191171) – nice bit of juicy black fruit with nary a thing to get in the way along with mocha/coffee on the finish. (****)

Chateau les Hauts de Palette 2010 ($18.95 - #297267) – raspberry, strawberry and herbal. (*** ½+)

Les Parcelles de Stephane Derenoncourt 2010 ($26.95 - #339192) – steady mocha seam along with black cherry and cassis. (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Domaine Faiveley 2010 Mercurey ($22.95 - #341925) – still crazy ‘bout a Mercurey, and this one is real good. (****+) - THX

France (Champagne) …

Gonet-Medeville Tradition 1er Cru Brut Champagne ($49.95 - #340117) – almond, hazelnut with bready and biscuit notes. (****)

Moutard Pere et Fils Rosé de Cuvaison Brut Champagne ($47.95 - #340091) – nice bit of strawberry amongst the citrus and acidity.  (****)

France (Midi) …

Chateau Maris 2009 Las Combes Minervois Cru La Liviniere ($25.95 - #341958) – seductive with its 16% alcohol, lots of dark fruit and vanilla, hints of smoke; this beauty could be your downfall. (****)

Lacroix-Vanel Fine Amor Pezenas 2008 ($19.95 - #343418) – lots of raspberry and strawberry with a kirsch-like finish. (*** ½+)

France (Southwest) …

Chateau du Cedre 2009 Cahors ($21.95 - #969212) – smoky, rich fruit with plenty of tannin structure; a balancing act here between the new and old world Cahors; hold 5+ years. (****)

Lionel Osmin & Cie 2010 Cami Salie ($18.95 - #328633) – interesting blend of white grapes and there’s a little bit of everything but mainly apple with muted tropical notes. (*** ½+)

Tessellae 2011 Vieilles Vignes Carignan ($16.95 - #343509) – blue and black berry with hints of raspberry and dark chocolate all with a touch of spice; good value.  (****+)

Germany …

Lingenfelder 2012 Bird Label Riesling ($13.95 - #568634) – slight sweetness which plays off the minerality; nice, easy sipper. (*** ½+)

Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt 2008 Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett ($20.95 - #282343) – balance is the name of the game here, plus the ability to let it linger on the palate. (****) - THX

Italy (Tuscany) …

Argiano 2011 Non Confunditur ($24.95 - #072397) – rich of dark fruit with coffee bean and vanilla.  (****) – TUS

Brancaia 2011 Tre ($23.95 - #164715) – pretty, light and easy drinking, loaded with fruit and hints of spice. (*** ½+) – TUS

Carpineto Farnito Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 ($29.95 - #996553) – rich and pretty with smoked meat and blackberry spice. (****) – TUS

Palazzo Vechio 2007 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano ($23.95 - #348532) – herbal, smoked and roasted cherry with a coffee-like finish. (*** ½+) –TUS

Rocca di Frassinello 2010 Le Sughere di Frassinello ($29.95 - #025700) – smoky mocha with dried cherry and strawberry. (****) – TUS

Ruffino 2010 Modus ($28.95 - #912956) – herbal and mocha with spiced dark fruit and roasted coffee bean finish. (****) – TUS

San Felice 2009 Il Grigio Chianti Classico Reserva ($26.95 - #716266) – rustic beginning yet it has a fruit driven mid with hints of herbal. (*** ½+) – TUS

Vicciomaggio 2012 Ripa delle Madorle ($15.95 - #677930) – light and friendly with plenty of raspberry and strawberry, some plum and the merest hint of spice.  (****) - TUS

Italy (Veneto) …

Feudi San Pio Valpolicella Classico Ripasso Superiore 2011 ($16.95 - #181446) – silky smooth with round plum, chocolate cherry and a mocha finish. (*** ½+)

Rubinelli Vajol Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2008 ($49.95 - #268821) – almost port-like in flavour this is big, brawny and delicious with a wowsa 16.5%. (****)

New Zealand …

Churton 2011 Sauvignon Blanc ($23.95 - #159244) – hints of lemon and lime pith with a decent amount of acidity holding it together and touches of peach pit on the finish. (*** ½+)

Momo 2010 Marlborough Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #163972) – juicy with floral, cherry and plum notes followed by a nice peppery finish.  (*** ½+) – THX

Seresin 2009 Leah Pinot Noir ($39.95 - #655167) – very intense with dark fruit and spice but still that earthy quality Pinot is known for.  (****)

Portugal …

Croft 2008 Late Bottle Vintage Port ($18.95 - #087601) – don’t think about it, just buy it.  Rich dark cherry with plum and chocolate; not as opulent as the 2007 but very good. (****)

Duorum 2010 Tinto ($18.95 - #215699) – more delicate than past bottlings which have been bruisers about alcohol, nice balance of 13.5%, fruit acid and spice all mix together. (****+)

Herdade das Servas 2009 Tinto ($18.95 - #336081) – nicely smoked raspberry and chocolate. (*** ½+)

Messias 10-Year-Old Tawny Port ($24.95 - #087205) – orange peel, Christmas spice and knock your socks off acidity along with the spice. (****)

Spain …

Luis Canas 2009 Crianza Rioja ($17.95 - #336719) – nicely balanced and fruit driven. (****)

Maria Alvarez Serrano Abadia de Gomariz 2010 ($20.95 - #34477) – this one takes a few sips then it kicks in with smoky and rich of dark fruit with a blueberry-cassis finish. (****)

Paco & Lola 2011 Albarino ($17.95 - #350041) – nice soft white that shows grapefruit zest and pith and lots of pulp within. (*** ½+)

Ramon Bilbao 2004 Tempranillo Gran Reserva ($27.95 - #244715) – herbal and mineral with tobacco and cassis. (*** ½+)

United States (California) …

Estancia 2009 Benchmark Vineyard Pinot Noir ($36.95 - #327049) – nice bit of plum amongst the black cherry and hints of cinnamon-pepper, finishes quite dry.  (****)

Fog Head 2011 Reserve Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #212944) – juicy and very cherry/strawberry dominated; nice acidity on the finish. (*** ½+)

Francis Ford Coppola 2011 Director’s Cut Zinfandel ($34.95 - #203208) – nice simple Zin that shows delicacy instead of weight.  (*** ½+)

Gallo Family 2009 Frei Ranch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #555607) – herbal, blackberry, plum and chocolate.  (****)

Kenwood 2012 Chardonnay ($18.95 - #158790) – juicy character with a nice oak / fruit mix. (*** ½+)

MacMurray Ranch 2011 Chardonnay ($22.95 - #26263) – a little vanilla, a little butterscotch, a little pineapple and a little peach; all with a nice little finish. (*** ½+)

Paul Hobbs 2011 Crossbarn Cabernet Sauvignon ($47.95 - #118695) – really hedonistic with all that fruit; lush, plush and very delicious.  (**** ½)

United States (Oregon) ...

Bachelder 2011 Pinot Noir ($34.95 - #333278) - has nice fruit on the nose while the palate proves to have mineral and earthy notes along with cranberry and strawberry.  (*** ½+)

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

Chateau Montelena 2009 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($147.95 - #709881) - ****+

Chateau Sociando-Mallet 2009 ($68.85 - #3339192) - ****+

Concha y Toro 2008 Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon ($79.95 - #315176) - **** (PCh)

Two Hands 2011 Lily’s Garden Shiraz ($59.95 - #683086) - ****

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – September 28, 2013 …

Domaine Faiveley 2010 Mercurey ($22.95 - #341925) – Burgundy, France

Duorum 2010 Tinto ($18.95 - #215699) – Portugal

Tessellae 2011 Vieilles Vignes Carignan ($16.95 - #343509) – Southwest, France

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves September 28, 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.

10 wines are being released, here are scores for 7 of them.

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
Evens & Tate 2009 Redbrook Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon ($38.95 - #060186) ... Australia
Chateau La Croix 2009 St Georges ($84.95 - #198556) ... Bordeaux, France

Three-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Ksana 2007 Gran Reserva Malbec ($42.95 - #272658) ... Argentina

Four Star Wines (****) …
Joseph Phelps 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Magnum ($179.95 - #036921) ... California, USA
Marchesi De’Frescobaldi 2009 Lamaione Tenuta di Castelgiocondo ($63.95 - #978411) ... Tuscany, Italy

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Giuseppe Casotto del Merlo Campagnola Recioto della Valpolicella Classico 2010 ($29.95 - #084079) ... Veneto, Italy
Castello Montalcino Banfi 2009 Excelsus ($79.00 - #983916) ... 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 September 14, 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 … Where the LCBO should be all the time, Ontario (ONT)

The Skinny … The LCBO is calling it “Shine On”, their annual Ontario spotlight, yet at the tasting half of the wines weren’t available for tasting – can’t blame this one on the overseas shipping.  Look for a couple of delightful Beaujolais wines.

Argentina …

Zuccardi 2011 Santa Julia Magna ($14.95 - #093799) – lovely bit of blackberry and mocha with hints of blueberry and mocha on the finish. (****)

Zuccardi 2011 Serie A Malbec ($15.95 - #167619) - pleasant and easy drinking, a good introduction to the grape with a nice spiced finish. (*** ½+)

Australia …

Penfolds 2010 Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz ($34.95 - #422782) – nice mocha and spice with hints of black pepper, blackberry and a meaty undertone. (****)

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

Bachelder 2011 Niagara Chardonnay ($29.95 - #302083) - **** (ONT)

Coyote’s Run 2011 Red Paw Vineyard Pinot Noir ($22.95 - #079228) - **** (ONT)

Daniel Lenko 2009 Gewurztraminer ($24.95 – 356832) - ****+ (ONT)

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

Flat Rock 2012 Riesling ($16.95 - #043281) - **** (ONT)

Henry of Pelham 2007 Cuvee Catharine Blanc de Blanc “Carte Blanche” ($44.95 - #315200) - **** ½ (ONT)

Le Clos Jordanne 2010 Village Reserve Pinot Noir ($30.00 - #033894) - *** ½+ (ONT)

Norman Hardie 2010 Unfiltered County Chardonnay ($35.00 - #184432) - ****+ (ONT)

Reif 2011 Vidal Icewine ($24.95 - #544791) - **** ½ (ONT)

Tawse 2010 Growers Blend Pinot Noir ($26.95 - #130989) - ****+ (ONT)

The Foreign Affair 2011 The Conspiracy ($19.95 - #149237) - ****+ (ONT)

The Organized Crime 2011 Pipe Down ($22.20 - #356865) - **** (ONT)

Vintage Ink 2010 Mark of Passion Merlot / Cabernet ($17.95 - #250209) - **** (ONT)

France (Beaujolais) …

Collin Bourisset 2011 Douce Folie Saint-Amour ($19.95 - #330118) – nice cherry, raspberry notes with full on fruit and some nice spice. (****)

Collin Bourisset 2011 Les Terres Bleues Brouilly ($16.95 - #330100) – ripe cherries that demand attention, fresh and lively, chill and enjoy; pure Gamay magic. (****+)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau d’Aiguilhe 2009 ($44.85 - #194092) – intensely spiced with robust fruit. (****+)

Chateau Preuillac 2009 ($32.95 - #713925) – dusty blueberry, mocha and spice. (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Domaine Bernard Defaix 2010 Cote de Lechet Reserve Chablis 1er Cru ($33.95 - #017541) – nice mineral with pineapple, pear and mineral on the finish. (*** ½+)

Domaine Raphael Sallet 2011 Macon Uchizy ($15.95 - #130450) – hints of butter with apple, lemon zest and touches of sweet fruit on the finish. (*** ½+)

Maison Roche de Bellene 2010 Savigny-les-Beaune Vieilles Vignes ($22.95 - #344283) – the cherry and strawberry notes in this wine really sing, there’s also nice mineral and earthy notes as backdrop. (*** ½+)

France (Loire) …

Chateau Gaudrelle Brut Cremant de Loire ($19.95 - #339986) – floral and lemon notes along with some honey and breadiness. (*** ½+)

Couly-Dutheil 2010 La Baronne Madeleine Chinon ($21.95 - #057059) – blackberry and smoke with smooth tannins, easy drinking. (*** ½+)

France (Midi) …

Nostre Pais 2011 Costieres de Nimes ($19.95 - #295410) – chocolate, cherry and raspberry with vanilla and spice mid-palate. (****+)

France (Rhone) …

M. Chapoutier 2010 La Bernardine Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($49.95 - #972331) – balanced of fruit, spice and oak; quite flavourful. (****)

France (Southwest) …

Aydie L’Origine 2010 ($15.95 - #343566) – lots of red berry flavour. (*** ½+)

Chateau Spencer La Pujade 2011 le P’tit Spencer Corbieres ($14.95 - #348821) – full of fruit and gentle of spice, with licorice and floral notes. (*** ½+)

Greece …

Kourtaki Muscat of Samos ($14.95 - #938407) – there’s a hint of ginger and spice on this sweetie with exotic fruit backing it up. (****+)

Italy (Abruzzo) …

Bucaro 2011 Montepulciano D’Abruzzo ($15.95 - #277491) – mocha with red and black berries with a black cherry finish. (*** ½+)

Italy (Piedmont) …

Clavesana 2010 Il Clou Dogliani Superiore ($16.95 - #344747) – sour cherry, hint of spiced blackberry and some smoky notes. (*** ½+)

Italy (Puglia) …

Resta Squinzano Rosso 2009 ($15.95 - #338996) – mocha, black cherry, vanilla, tobacco and spice; complex wine especially for the price. (****)

Italy (Sicily) …

Orestiadi 2011 Grillo ($13.95 - #348698) – charred pineapple and grilled peaches. (*** ½+)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Fattoria Le Fonti 2010 Chianti Classico ($19.95 - #292162) – chocolate and oak, raspberry-earthiness with vanilla and cedar; it’s takes a glass of two to figure this one out, but it’s worth it. (*** ½+)

Italy (Veneto) …

Belcanto di Bellusi Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Superiore ($17.95 - #053215) – light and frothy bubbly with hints of apple sweetness. (*** ½+)

New Zealand …

Amisfield 2009 Pinot Noir ($36.95 - #179754) – smoky, oaky, vanilla, mocha along with a hint of pomegranate; this is some interesting stuff. (****)

Mount Riley 2011 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #060137) – cherry, raspberry and strawberry; good fruit bowl of flavours. (*** ½+)

Thatched Hut 2012 Sauvignon Blanc ($18.95 - #262782) – tangy grapefruit with definite grassy notes. (*** ½+)

South Africa …

False Bay 2012 Peacock Ridge Chenin Blanc ($14.95 - #337576) – pleasant, fresh and fruit with lanolin, peach and lemon; nice length to the finish. (****)

Spain …

Alvaro Palacios 2011 Camins del Priorat ($22.95 - #216291) – nice floral, bright berry flavour and pretty aromas. (****)

Bodegas Vizcarra JC Vicarra 2010 ($28.95 - #214650) – sweet dark berries flavours along with alluring aromas of black cherry and spice. (****)

Celler de Capcanes 2009 Costers de Gravet ($19.95 - #707059) – very flavourful with red and black fruit. (*** ½+)

Lan 2005 Gran Reserva ($27.95 - #928622) – cedary and smoky with layers of dried and fresh red berries. (****+)

United States (California) …

La Crema 2011 Pinot Noir ($31.95 - #719435) – juicy California version of Pinot with plenty of red fruit. (****)

McManis Family Vineyards 2011 Syrah ($19.95 - #658104) – very floral with sweet cherry and red licorice. (*** ½+)

Mer Soleil 2011 Silver Unoaked Chardonnay ($28.95 - #220343) – funky clay bottle, very tasty unoaked Chardonnay, but a gimmicky bottle. (*** ½)

Rodney Strong 2010 Chalk Hill Chardonnay ($24.95 - #275552) – big, fully realized Chard with lots of buttery, oaky and vanilla flavours with a touch of citrus zest. (****)

United States (Washington) …

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2008 Ethos Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($44.95 - #209866) – earthy, mocha and plum with vanilla and cherry. (*** ½+)

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

Chateau Fleur Cardinale 2009 ($64.85 - #197541) - ****+

Pahlmeyer 2010 Pinot Noir ($94.95 - #148536) - ****

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – September 14, 2013 …

Collin Bourisset 2011 Les Terres Bleues Brouilly ($16.95 - #330100) – France

False Bay 2012 Peacock Ridge Chenin Blanc ($14.95 - #337576) – South Africa

Kourtaki Muscat of Samos ($14.95 - #938407) – Greece

Nostre Pais 2011 Costieres de Nimes ($19.95 - #295410) – France

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves September 14, 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.

18 wines are being released, here are scores for 6 of them.

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

Anakota 2008 Helena Dakota Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($89.95 - #180984) ... California, USA

Jim Barry 2008 The McRae Wood Shiraz ($59.95 - #737817) ... Australia

Four Star Wines (****) …

Viader 2009 Proprietary Red ($134.95 - #994004) ... California, USA

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …

Patricius 2000 5 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszu ($42.95 - #095901) ... Hungary

Church and State 2009 Meritage ($39.95 - #334466) ... British Columbia, Canada

Cakebread 2009 Dancing Bear Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon / Cabernet Franc ($155.95 - #220459) ... California, USA

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

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

Saturday September 29, 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:  Tuscany (TUS), The Pinot Family (PF), and Thanksgiving (THX) wines

The Skinny:  There are some really good Tuscan wines in this release

Argentina ...

Alamos 2011 Torrentes ($13.95 - #81539) - floral and tangerine, pleasant sipper for not a lot of dough. (*** 1/2)

Catena Zapata 2010 Catena Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #985002) - good value in a good Cab; dark fruit, spiced-vanilla and chocolate. (****)

Finca Flichman 2008 Paisaja de Barrancas ($17.95 - #17129) - nice cocoa, blackberry, vanilla, spice and cherry. (****)

Luca 2009 Malbec ($29.95 - #167312) - big, fruity, dark fruited, chocolate, black cherry, sweet spice, vanilla; smooth and sexy. (****+)

Australia ...

Blackjack 2008 Major's Line Shiraz ($24.95 - #280941) - dark fruit, white pepper, plum, cherry, hint of licorice, nice acidity, tannins and good balance. (****+)

Blue Pyrenees 2009 Shiraz ($19.95 - #935890) - nice intensity of fruit, quite fruit bombish: dark with cream de cacao. (*** 1/2+)

D'Arenberg 2009 The Laughing Magpie Shiraz/Viognier ($29.95 - #936971) - violet, lavender, spiced black fruit, white pepper. (*** 1/2+)

Stonier 2010 Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #25338) - floral and fragrant, gentle red berries like strawberry and raspberry. (****) - PF

Canada (Ontario) ...

Coyote's Run 2010 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #53090) - ****+

Peninsula Ridge 2010 Reserve Meritage ($22.95 - #299180) - *** 1/2 (THX)

Tawse 2010 Cabernet Franc Icewine ($34.95 - #306035) - ****+

Chile ...

Arboleda 2011 Sauvignon Blanc ($16.95 - #510339) - melon, passionfruit and limeade. (*** 1/2+)

Polkura 2009 Syrah ($23.95 - #283978) - lovely spice, blueberry, blackberry, plum and a slight smokiness. (****+)

Santa Ema 2008 Amplus One ($23.95 - #169987) - juicy, plum, mocha, cocoa, with herbal character. (*** 1/2)

Tamari 2011 Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($14.95 - #292367) - very Chilean with big mint, dark fruit, chocolate and a little leather. (*** 1/2)

France (Bordeaux) ...

Chateau Maison Blanche 2009 ($19.95 - #295824) - gritty beginning, dark fruit and spice, and a nice mid-palate to finish. (*** 1/2+)

France (Burgundy) ...

Domaine Chanson 2009 Beaune-Bastion 1er Cru ($39.95 - #279067) - very earthy, spicy with black cherry. (*** 1/2)

France (Loire) ...

La Giraudiere 2010 Clos des Meuniers Saumur-Champigny ($16.95 - #290122) - tobacco, smoke, plum, black cherry and a touch of mocha. (*** 1/2)

France (Midi) ...

Domaine de Bila-Haut 2009 Occultum Lapidem ($24.95 - #643239) - violet and smoky with a bright red fruit core. (****)

France (Rhone) ...

Domaine les Grands Bois 2010 Cuvee Maximilien Cairanne ($21.95 - #286336) - boysenberry, cigar box and dried tobacco leaf. (*** 1/2)

Germany ...

Hoffman-Simon 2011 Piesporter Goldtropfchen Riesling Spatlese ($21.95 - #216499) - nice sweetness, good acidity and minerality with floral, peach and delicious apple. (****) - THX

Italy (Piedmont) ...

Clemente Cossetti & Figli 2009 La Vigna Vecchia Barbera D'Asti ($16.95 - #106278) - sweet spiced dark fruit with some blackberry sweetness; vanilla shows up on finish. (****) - THX

Gianni Gagliardo 2006 Barolo ($44.95 - #713602) - lovely flavour and spice, dried cherries and floral notes with silky tannins. (****)

Italy (Tuscany) ...

Jacopo Biondi Santi 2008 Sassoalloro ($35.95 - #981407) - dark fruit wrapped around a juicy center. (****) - TUS

Le Pupille Poggio Valente Morellino di Scansano Riserva 2007 ($34.95 - #230680) - dark fruit, spice, and cedar; nice finish. (*** 1/2+) - TUS

Michele Satta 2009 Bolgheri Rosso ($19.95 - #39834) - loads of red and black fruit with the right amount of spice and toastiness. (****) - TUS

Moris 2010 Morellino di Scansano ($18.95 - #992560) - wild berries and dark fruit with cinnamon and cedar. (*** 1/2) - TUS

Poggio Al Tesoro 2008 Sondraia ($44.95 - #292391) - bright black fruit, chocolate cherry; a really intensity of flavour. (****+) - TUS

Rocca delle Macie 2008 Chianti Riserva ($15.95 - #111641) - a good value wine with a mocha-licorice mid and touch of cedar. (*** 1/2) - TUS

Triacca 2010 Spadino ($15.95 - #288001) - cherry and currants mixed with smoke and nice tannins. (*** 1/2+)

Italy (Veneto) ...

Masi 2008 Brolo Campofiorin Oro Appaxximento ($24.95 - #976092) - bacon and black licorice with coffee and a nice toastiness. (*** 1/2+)

Zeni Marogne Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2009 ($16.95 - #220830) - licorice, all-spice, black cherry, chocolate, vanilla and spice. (****+)

New Zealand ...

Babich 2011 Black Label Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0009142) - soft, tropical and slightly herbaceous with a long finish of lemon and lime pith. (****)

Carrick 2009 Pinot Noir ($37.95 - #919837) - intense and flavourful, darker fruit and floral spice. (****) - PF

Kim Crawford 2008 SP Moteo Vineyard Viognier ($24.95 - #191759) - fruity with peach, melon and a bit of stoniness. (*** 1/2)

Tarras 2008 The Canyon Single Vineyard Pinot Noir ($46.95 - #287219) - sweet fruited, blackberry, boysenberry, cherry tartness, edgy with spice and acidity to spare. (****+) - PF

Thatched Hut 2011 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #242933) - gentle cran-cherry, earthy-strawberry, hint of wood spice. (*** 1/2+) - PF

Portugal ...

Quinta do Castelinho 2009 Douro Reserva ($15.95 - #704981) - lovely black fruited finish with vanilla and spice. (*** 1/2)

Quinta do Portal 2011 Trevo Vinho Verde ($13.95 - #292086) - refreshingly citrus. (*** 1/2)

South Africa ...

Ernie Els 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($23.95 - #278358) - lovely structure, good fruit, mocha, spice and black fruit. (****)

Simonsig 2009 Chenin Avec Chene Chenin Blanc ($28.95 - #282772) - unexpectedly flavourful and delicious, good spice on the finish; vanilla-spice linger with peach nuances. (****)

Spain ...

Casa Castillo 2010 Monastrell ($13.95 - #165621) - sweetness of spice, vanilla, violets and blackberry with smoky notes on the mid-palate. (****+)

Dinastia Vivanco Reserva 2005 ($24.95 - #293431) - nice spiced-cherry with graphite and cranberry. (*** 1/2+) - THX

United States (California) ...

Artezin 2010 Zinfandel ($21.95 - #302943) - best Artezin since my first bottle years ago, vanilla-cola, plum, chocolate, cherry; a delight to sip on and great with BBQ. (**** 1/2)

Cline 2010 Ancient Vines Zinfandel ($19.95 - #719211) - always a favourite and always well balanced, nice acidity, good tannins: plum, cherry, vanilla and cola notes. (****+)

First Press 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #188110) - search out the 2009 as the 2010 is also available this time out, it's fresher, fruitier with blackberry, cherry and chocolate ... the 2010 if bland and boring with no character. (2009 - ****+)

Francis Ford Coppola 2009 Director's Cut Zinfandel ($34.95 - #203208) - plum, cherry, vanilla, fairly basic stuff. (*** 1/2)

Freemark Abbey 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.95 - #904532) - very nice fruit, good tannins, biting finish. (*** 1/2+)

Macrotie 2009 Chardonnay ($30.95 - #244467) - nice balance of fruit and oak with mid-palate juiciness with a slightly spiced finish and nice linger. (*** 1/2+)

Santa Barbara Winery 2010 Chardonnay ($18.95 - #989152) - intense butterscotch, vanilla-caramel and baked peach and apricot; big finish. (*** 1/2)

United States (Oregon) ...

Elk Cove 2009 Pinot Noir ($37.95 - #234534) - red fruit dominant with nice white pepper spice. (*** 1/2)

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

Antinori 2006 Pian Delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino ($59.95 - #651141) - **** (TUS)

Catena Zapata 2008 Nicasia Vineyard la Consulta Malbec ($89.95 - #132357) - ****+

Duckhorn 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($74.95  #24190) - elegant (****+)

Forman 2010 Chardonnay ($52.95 - #236117) - delicate and delicious (****)

Luce Della Vite Luce 2009 ($99.95 - #685263) - **** 1/2 (TUS)

Tenuta Sette Ponti 2009 Oreno ($71.95 - #735597) - ****+ (TUS)

What I'll Be Lining Up For - September 29, 2012 ...

Cline 2010 Ancient Vines Zinfandel ($19.95 - #719211) - USA

Casa Castillo 2010 Monastrell ($13.95 - #165621) -Spain

Happy Shopping

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Vintages Shop Online September 20, 2012 Release

10 wines, 10 marks - it's a miracle - here's my take on the wines being released in this Shop On-line offer ...

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** 1/2) ...
Cassini Cellars 2009 Maximus Collector's Series Red ($47.95 - #303016) ... British Columbia, Canada
Viberti Buon Padre Barolo ($49.00 - #106542) ... Piedmont, Italy
Petrolo Torrione 2009 ($38.00 - #21980) ... Tuscany, Italy

Three-and-a Half Plus Star Wines (*** 1/2+) ...
Thompson Estate 2009 Chardonnay ($34.00 - #289298) ... Australia

Four Star Wines (****) ...
Le Vieux Pin 2008 Petit Rouge ($29.95 - #297416) ... British Columbia, Canada
Corison 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon ($94.95 - #289462) ... California, USA
Corino 2007 Vigna Giachini Barolo ($55.00 - #297259) ... Piedmont, Italy
Badia a Coltibuono 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva ($43.00 - #683474) ... Tuscany, Italy
Citille di Sopra 2007 Vigna Poggio Ronconi Brunello di Montalcino ($49.00 - #187955) ... Tuscany, Italy

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) ...
Yalumba 2005 Hand Picked Single Site Habermann Vineyard Grenache ($76.00 - #237537) ... Australia - hints of tobacco couch dark fruit and plum notes; you'll also find floral and leather here - which gives the hand in a velvet glove effect.

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Vintages Shop Online September 6, 2012 Release

11 products being released, including a Brandy, here's my take on 6 of those  products ...

Three-and-a Half Plus Star Wines (*** 1/2+) ...
Domaine Jean-Claude Bessin 2009 La Piece au Comte la Fourchaume Chablis 1er Cru ($N/A - #167452) ... Burgundy, France
San Felice 2007 Vigorello ($N/A - #726463) ... Tuscany, Italy

Four Star Wines (****) ...
San Felice 2007 Pugnitello ($N/A - #291419) ... Tuscany, Italy

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) ...
Outpost 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($N/A - #278044) ... California, USA
Sacred Hill 2009 Prospector Pinot Noir ($N/A - #295741) ... New Zealand

Four-and-a-Half Star Wines (**** 1/2) ...
Domaine de Rancy 1996 Riversaltes Ambre ($N/A - #165647) ... Midi, France - a delicious little dessert wine with orange peel, toasted nuts and spice along with dried berries and marmalade notes all wrapped up with great acidity; it's very Sherry-like, but it's from France, not Spain.  The spicy finish is absolutely killer - in a good way.

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Saturday September 15, 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.

The Focus:  Ontario

The Highlights:  Italian wines amaze plus stunners from both Rhone and Washington

The Skinny:  lots of corked bottles at this release ... are we seeing an influx of bad cork again?

Argentina ...

Luca 2010 G Lot Chardonnay ($27.95 - #167338) - full flavoured Chardonnay with a very silent nose. (*** 1/2+)

Luigi Bosca 2009 Single Vineyard Malbec ($21.95 - #74922) - brambly, blackberry and cocoa. (*** 1/2)

Maipe 2010 Reserve Malbec ($17.95 - #247320) - sweet cedar with cherry and spice. (*** 1/2)

Australia ...

Charles Cimicky 2008 The Autograph Shiraz ($34.95 - #27326) - nicely fruited and spiced. (*** 1/2+

Formby & Adams 2007 Leading Horse Cabernet Sauvignon ($21.95 - #287508) - chocolate, anise, dark berries, vanilla and spiced fruit. (*** 1/2+)

Penfolds 2009 Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz ($34.95 - #422782) - good dark fruit, peppery and pleasant. (*** 1/2+)

Pirramimma 2008 Old Bush Vine Grenache ($24.95 - #108068) - intensity of flavour: coffee, mocha, dark berries, all-spice and licorice. (****)

The Black Chook 2010 Shiraz/Viognier ($17.95 - #66738) - good vaue in this Aussie-style blend. (*** 1/2+)

Canada - (Ontario) ...

2027 2011 Falls Vineyard Riesling ($18.95 - #294041) - ****+

Bachelder 2010 Niagara Chardonnay ($29.95 - #302083) - ****+

Chateau des Charmes 2009 Vidal Icewine ($25.95 / 200ml - #565861) - ****

Closson Chase 2009 Closson Chase Vineyard Chardonnay ($29.95 - #148866) - ****+

Coffin Ridge 2011 Bone Dry Riesling ($17.00 - #232744) - ****

Colio Estate 2007 CEV Reserve Cabenet Franc ($20.95 - #432096) - ****+

Featherstone 2010 Cabernet Franc ($16.95 - #64618) - **** 1/2+

Flat Rock Cellars 2010 Gravity Pinot Noir ($29.95 - #001560) - *** 1/2+

Henry of Pelham 2010 Reserve Baco Noir ($24.95 - #461699) - ****

Henry of Pelham 2007 Reserve Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #268391) - ****+

Inniskillin 2008 Riesling Icewine ($69.95 / 375ml - #558288) - ****+

Inniskillin 2011 Vidal Sparkling Icewine ($79.95 - #560367) - ****

Jackson-Triggs 2011 Delaine Chardonnay ($24.95 - #623454) - *** 1/2+

Lakeview Cellars 2011 Reserve Riesling ($16.95 - #294074) - *** 1/2

Norman Hardie 2010 County Unfiltered Pinot Noir ($35.00 - #125310) - **** 1/2

Peller Estates NV Ice Cuvee ($34.95 - #113035) - *** 1/2

Vineland Estates 2011 Elevation Riesling ($19.95 - #38117) - *** 1/2+

Chile ...

Concha y Toro 2011 Serie Riberas Gran Reserva Chardonnay ($16.00 - #287995) - retains fruit, some smoke along with apple skin notes. (*** 1/2+)

Cono Sur 2008 20 Barrels Cabernet Sauvignon ($26.95 - #94128) - just black fruit, currants, mocha, slight tobacco note with spiced blackberry finish. (****)

Koyle 2009 Reserva Syrah ($15.95 - #273961) - smoky, black pepper, meaty and blackberry. (*** 1/2+)

Sol de Andes 2009 Reserva Especial Chardonnay ($17.95 - #254326) - crisp of fruit with mineral complexity. (*** 1/2+)

France - (Alsace) ...

Cave de Hoen Mausberg Blanc de Blancs Brut Cremant D'Alsace ($17.95 - #171785) - creamy with a raciness mid-palate to finish and nice tangerine flavour. (*** 1/2+)

France - (Beaujolais) ...

Domaine de la Chanaise 2010 Morgon ($18.95 - #288068) - lots of dark cherry fruit with mineral undertones and a good long finish; the only question her is to chill or not to chill. (****+)

France - (Bordeaux) ...

Chateau D'Argadens 2008 ($16.95 - #681643) - delivers a punch of fruit nicely wound in spice. (*** 1/2+)

Christian Moueix 2009 Saint-Emilion ($19.95 - #979955) - soft cherry, cedar, spice and nicely balanced. (*** 1/2)

France - (Burgundy) ...

Chateau Philippe-le-Hardi 2009 Mercurey Les Puillets 1er Cru ($29.95 - #295071) - rich, bold, mainly fruit driven with spice and toast. (****)

Domaine la Soufrandise 2010 Clos Marie Pouilly-Fuisse ($27.95 - #42622) - a yummy blend of floral, butter and orange peel. (*** 1/2)

France - (Loire) ...

Domaine Jacky Marteau 2011 Sauvignon Touraine ($12.95 - #745349) - citrus peel, grapefruit pith with a touch of grass on the finish; very well priced. (*** 1/2)

France - (Midi) ...

Chateau de Millegrand 2010 Minervois ($16.95 - #288944) - spice, leather, meaty, smoky, licorice with medium tannins; shows finesse. (****)

France - (Rhone) ...

Famille Perrin 2010 Peyre Blanche Cairanne Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($17.95 - #650960) - intensity of smoked meat and blackberries. (*** 1/2+)

La Font des Grieres 2009 Gigondas ($19.95 - #175729) - intense red fruit, well integrated wood, fruit and alcohol (15%); the finish of spicy berries makes this a real beauty. (**** 1/2)

Germany ...

Loosen Bros. 2011 Dr. L Riesling ($13.95 - #599274) - mellower than usual, drier not as acidic as previous vintages. (*** 1/2)

Italy - (Abruzzo) ...

D'Angelo 2009 Aglianico del Vulture ($18.95 - #971689) - sweetly herbed and spiced with smoky, meaty, clove and cherry. (*** 1/2+)

Italy - (Piedmont) ...

Gemma 2007 Barolo ($29.95 - #285502) - earthy and spicy, sour cherry and cranberry fruit with a touch of cinnamon. (*** 1/2+)

Italy - (Puglia) ...

Li Veli Montecoco Primitivo 2009 ($18.95 - #281436) - dark and red fruit with good plum and spice. (*** 1/2+)

Italy - (Sardinia) ...

Argiolas 2009 Perdera ($17.95 - #297556) - juicy of dark fruit, sweet spices and herbs with a lovely finish. (****+)

Italy - (Sicily) ...

Morgante 2010 Nero D'avola ($14.95 - #40816) - sweet blackberry and chocolate, plum, cherry, almost Zin-like with intense cherry finish; good value. (****+)

Italy - (Tuscany) ...

Collosorbo 2006 Brunello di Montalcino ($49.95 - #285742) - sweet tar and spice with smoke and dark cherries. (****)

Le Fonti 2009 Chianti Classico ($19.95 - #295162) - coffe and licorice, black cherry with a hint of floral and mineral along with a spiced finish; good stuffing. (****+)

Marchesi de Frescobaldi 2009 Tenuta di Castiglioni ($21.95 - #145920) - still delivers the good with herbal, spice, blackberry and cherry; firm yet approachable. (****+)

Ruffino 2007 Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Riserva ($43.95 - #353201) - dark fruit and spice lead the charge, dry finish with plenty of cedar. (*** 1/2)

Italy - (Veneto) ...

Adalia Singat 2011 Soave ($13.95 - #289603) - lime zest and tangerine. (*** 1/2)

Tommasi 2008 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($49.95 - #356220) - fruit driven, sweet spice and big cherry. (****)

Portugal ...

Azul Portugal 2007 Vinho Tinto ($12.95 - #292060) - earthy-blackberry, black cherry, smoky and toasty. (*** 1/2+)

Quinta de Ventozelo 2002 Vintage Port ($42.95 - #286419) - the fruit and spice mingle well in the wine with a bite from the acidity on the finish. (****+)

South Africa ...

Ataraxia 2011 Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #282814) - pretty with floral and grassy notes with a grapefruit pith finish. (*** 1/2+)

Spain ...

Bodegas Lan 2007 Reserva ($21.95 - #42929) - earthy, blackberry, plum, cocoa and spice, with hints of tobacco, floral and meat notes; nice complexity. (****)

Peique 2010 Tinto Mencia ($14.95 - #219204) - interesting spice and sweet berries. (*** 1/2)

United States - (California) ...

Eberle 2007 Steinbeck & Wine-Bush Vineyards Zinfandel ($29.95 - #279851) - a juicy Zin with lots of raspberry, blackberry and cherry, gently spiced. (*** 1/2)

Napa Cellars 2010 Chardonnay ($23.95 - #225342) - big and ballsy with oak tones along with nuts, caramel, baked peach, pear and a nice spice on the finish. (****)

Roederer Estate 2003 L'ermitage Brut Sparkling Wine ($54.95 - #183392) - lovely, fresh, and biscuity with good lemon, lime notes and big acid bite. (****)

Rutherford Ranch 2008 Zinfandel (~$20.00 - #279828) - spicy Zin with menthol, vanilla-cola and cherry. (****)

Sebastiani 2010 Chardonnay ($17.95 - #30791) - soft, supple, juicy; toasty with melon and peach notes, good value in a Cali-Chard. (****)

Signorello 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($62.95 - #60152) - big, bold and black fruited, tarry yet juicy; smoky and meaty. (*** 1/2+)

Stonestreet Alexander Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 ($29.95 - #004002) - cocoa core with blackberries and smoke. (*** 1/2+)

Summers Ranch 2008 Reserve Merlot ($34.95 - #279372) - juicy and full of fruit with a coffee backing. (*** 1/2+)

United States - (Oregon) ...

Cristom Sommers 2008 Reserve Pinot Noir ($43.00 - #942490) - lovely spicebox and sandalwood which hides a layer of black fruit. (****+)

United States - (Washington) ...

Columbia Crest 2009 H3 Les Chevaux ($20.95 - 287425) - another beauty from the H3 line of wine: cocoa, mocha, and dark berries; a must buy. (**** 1/2)

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

Joseph Phelps 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($79.95 - #189795) - ****+

Pahlmeyer 2008 Proprietary Red ($149.95 - #967992) - **** +

Two Hands 2010 Lily's Garden Shiraz ($62.95 - #683086) - ****+

What I'll Be Lining Up For - September 15, 2012 ... wines not to miss

Domaine de la Chanaise 2010 Morgon ($18.95 - #288068) - France

Chateau de Millegrand 2010 Minervois ($16.95 - #288944) - France

La Font des Grieres 2009 Gigondas ($19.95 - #175729) - France

Morgante 2010 Nero D'avola ($14.95 - #40816) - Italy

Columbia Crest 2009 H3 Les Chevaux ($20.95 - 287425) - United States

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Saturday September 17, 2011 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version

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

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

Argentina …

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

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

Australia … 

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

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

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

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

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

Austria …

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

Chile …

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

France … 

(Bordeaux)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Burgundy)

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

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

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

(Champagne)

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

(Rhone)

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

Germany …

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

Italy …

(Tuscany)

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

New Zealand … 

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

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

Portugal …

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

Spain …

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

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

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

United States … 

(California)

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

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

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

(Oregon)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arrocal 2008 ($16.95 - #0067868) - Spain

Happy Shopping.

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

Vintages Shop Online September 8, 2011 Release

Here are my favourites of the 20 wines tasted – no notes just the star ratings; top rated wine, has a note:

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
Poole’s Rock 2008 Chardonnay ($44.95 - #0238485) – Australia
Coniglio Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 ($67.95 - #0227546) – California, United States
Arenes Sauvages Cornas 2005 ($44.95 - #0244848) – Rhone, France
Domaine Saint Gayan Gigondas 2006 ($26.95 - #0718221) – Rhone, France
Podere La Vigna Riserva Brunello di Montalcino 2004 ($71.95 - #0244178) – Tuscany, Italy
San Felica 2006 Vigorello ($52.95 - #0726463) – Tuscany, Italy

Three-and-a-Half-Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Dosnon & Lepage Recolte Noire Brut Champagne ($51.95 - #0243899) – Champagne, France
Peter Michael 2010 L’Apres-Midi Sauvignon Blanc ($72.95 - #0154658) – California, United States
Domaine Pavelot Savigny-Les Beaune 1er Cru-Aux Guettes ($42.95 - #0240465) – Burgundy, France
Terrabianca 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva Croce ($28.95 - #0702142) – Tuscany, Italy

Four Star Wines (****) …
Lafond 2007 Pommard Clone Pinot Noir ($44.95 - #0227587) – California, United States
Wente 2006 Small Lot Merlot ($45.95 - #0235879) – California, United States

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Byron 2008 Nielson Vineyard Pinot Noir ($39.95 - #0719161) – California, United States
De Bortoli 2008 Reserve Release Syrah ($54.95 - #0238691) – Australia
Allegrini 2006 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($89.00 - #0705780) – Veneto, Italy

Four-and-a-Half Star Wines (**** ½) …
Chateau de Vaudieu Clos du Belvedere Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2009 ($84.95 - #0234740) – Rhone, France
Gonzalez Byass Nectar Pedro Ximenez Dulce Sherry ($15.95 - #0087577) – Spain … something this delicious should not be so cheap, but I’m not complaining; think pecan pie or raisin butter tart in liquid form … awesome.

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

 

Saturday September 3, 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 celebrates the 150th Anniversary of the unification of Italy (IT), and looks at a number of Blends from Around the World (BAW) … there are also some excellent wines in the Best Buy section and in the wines I'll be lining up for…

Argentina …

White –

Zolo 2010 Torrontes ($12.95 - #0183913) – lighter than your usual Torrontes which usually screams Gewurztraminer to me, this one is on the mellower side and might have more mass-appeal; at a price that won’t scare people away from trying something new. (*** ½)

Red -

Lamadrid 2008 Single Vineyard Reserva Malbec ($15.00 - #0234492) – plumy dark fruit and nice cherry notes that follows all the way through to the finish. (*** ½+)

Vina Alicia 2008 Paso de Piedra Cabernet Sauvignon ($18.95 - #0177980) – sweet black fruit with a hint of mint. (****)

Australia … 

Red –

Dark Side of the Moon 2009 Shiraz ($27.95 - #0072652) – juicy, juicy, juicy ... with lots of sweet fruit. (*** ½+)

Kaesler 2007 The Bogan Shiraz ($54.95 - #0004234) – rich jammy and juicy flavours with chocolate, spice; big 15.5% alcohol. (****+)

Yalumba 2006 The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz ($51.95 - #0528356) – lots of lovely big flavour with a black cherry and chocolate finish. (*** ½+)

Canada … 

Red -

(British Columbia)

Inniskillin 2007 Dark Horse Estate Vineyard Meritage ($23.95 - #0597039) – rich dark fruit throughout, it has texture across the tongue with smoked chocolate and blackberry fruit. (****) - BAW

(Ontario)

Henry of Pelham 2007 Reserve Cabernet/Merlot ($24.95 - #0395855) - BAW

White –

(British Columbia)

Road 13 Winery 2009 Honest John’s White ($25.95 - #0248559) – the nose is like a Del-Monte fruit cup, minus the cherries; palate is an intriguing mix of sweet exotic fruit and sour citrus. (*** ½+)

(Ontario)

Inniskillin 2009 Barrel Aged Pinot Gris ($19.95 - #0177766)

Jackson Triggs 2009 Silver Series Gewurztraminer ($19.95 - #0247767)

Lailey 2009 Chardonnnay ($19.95 - #0193482)

Chile …

Red -

Luis Felipe Edwards 2009 Reserva Merlot ($14.95 - #0250340) – nice blueberry, blackberry notes with chocolate raspberry on the finish. (****)

White –

Ventisquero 2010 Reserva Sauvignon Blanc ($12.95 - #0211904) – sweet with grass with grapefruit cocktail; a pleasant summer sipper. (*** ½+)

France … 

Red –

(Bordeaux)

Chateau la Maisonette 2008 ($14.95 - #0226191) – nicely grounded because of the earthy and dark fruit quality. (*** ½)

Chateau Valrose 2005 Cuvee Alienor ($38.95 - #0710517) – deep, dark, rich and at times juicy with dark fruit and tannins dominating, odd to say it’s juicy but it's there. (*** ½+) - BAW

(Burgundy)

Maison Roche de Bellene 2009 Cotes du Nuits-Villages ($19.95 - #0240473) – nice black plum and berry notes with spice and earth characteristics. (*** ½+)

(Rhone)

Domaine Chante Cigale 2007 Tradition Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($37.95 - #0194993) – coffee, mocha, plum and blackberry; dark and delicious on many levels. (****)

Sparkling –

Monmousseau Brut Rose Cremant de Loire ($16.95 - #0226233) – dusting of peach and apple with a hint of raspberry with a nice creamy finish. (****)

White –

(Alsace)

Domaines Schlumberger 2006 Grand Cru Kessler Pinot Gris ($25.95 - #0249623) – a sweet gris with lots of mouth feel. (*** ½+)

(Loire)

Domaine de Cray 2009 Montlouis White ($14.95 - #0226589) – sweet little Chenin that delivers mineral with apple and pear notes along with good acidity. (****)

(Rhone)

Domaine des Bernardins 2009 Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise ($16.95 / 375ml - #0129999) – lovely spiced character with cinnamon and peaches, there’s also a nice floral note. (****+)

Germany …

White –

St. Urbans-Hof 2009 Riesling Kabinett ($21.95 - #0216622) – mineral, peach and apple, beautiful German classic style Riesling with its balance of acid and sweetness. (****+)

Italy …

Red –

(Basilicata)

Gricos 2008 Aglianico del Vulture ($14.95 - #0233833) – plum, black cherry, licorice with good stuffing; slightly leathery on the finish. (****)

(Puglia)

Girolamo 2008 Negroamaro ($18.95 - #0232736) – nicely dark fruited and enjoyably sippable. (*** ½+) - IT

Pepe Nero 2009 Primitivo Salento ($17.95 - #0230730) – think Zin with extra vanilla, plum and cherry. (****+) - IT

(Tuscany)

Fattoria le Pupille 2007 Saffredi ($99.95 - #0074435) – quite nice and very pricey. (****)

Lornano 2007 Le Bandite Chianti Classico Riserva ($19.95 - #0230672) – nice easy sipping Chianti, this should come wrapped in a wicker basket. (*** ½+) - IT

San Filippo Lo Scorno Rossi di Montalcino 2008 ($19.95 - #0232397) – lots of cherry and nice spice. (*** ½+)

(Veneto)

Brigaldara Case Vecie Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006 ($49.95 - #0247502) – oooo mama this one has some nice kick with spice and plum dominant. (****) – BAW

Corte Majoli 2007 Amarone Della Valpolicella ($33.95 - #0081943) – sweet fruit, very sippable and enjoyable now with a touch of oxidation that comes across as chocolate and cherry notes. (****+)

Tommasi 2009 Sestante Ripasso Valpolicella ($18.95 - #018719) – easy drinking with sweet plum and a backing of chocolate. (****)

White –

(Sicily)

Castello D’Albola Butara Insolia 2009 ($15.95 - #0229765) – mineral, citrus, pear and melon rind. (*** ½+)

New Zealand …

Red –

Coopers Creek 2009 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #0057802) – sweeter than the usual bone dry Pinots from New Zealand, think Kiwi meets Cali with juicy fruit, both red and black, with good cinnamon and clove spice. (****+)

White –

Coopers Creek 2009 Select Vineyards The Pointer Pinot Gris ($19.95 - #0236042) – apple and pear along with lemon/lime pith; pretty finish. (*** ½)

Delta 2010 Sauvignon Blanc ($16.95 - #0236125) – big on gooseberry and grapefruit cocktail. (*** ½)

Giesen 2009 The Brothers Sauvignon Blanc ($19.95 - #0247213) – grassy, yet with sweetness of fruit, think grapefruit with sugar on top, yet with really good acidity that cleans the palate which then helps to lengthen its finish. (****+)

Portugal …

Dessert –

Dow’s 2005 Late Bottled Vintage Port ($16.95 - #0613927) – the spice, the black cherry, the chocolate, the acidity and the wow yum; great winter warmer. (****+)

South Africa …

Red –

Lammershoek 2006 Roulette ($25.95 - #0058164) – lush and plush with black raspberry, plum and a hint of mocha with sweet spice; nice bite back on the finish. (****+) - BAW

Rust en Vrede Estate 2007 ($37.95 - #0997742) – nice flavour which saves this wine, the nose has that earthy-tar South Africa note, but a real lovely palate. (*** ½+) - BAW

White –

Springfield Estate 2006 Wild Yeast Chardonnay ($24.95 - #0694646) – sweet vanilla on the great nose and it follows on the palate too; nice creamy finish. (****)

Spain …

Dessert –

Osbourne 10 RF Premium Oloroso Medium ($15.95 - #0087536) – orange blossom with cinnamon-spice and nutty as hell, also look for the dried cherries. (*** ½+)

United States … 

Red – 

(California)

Cline 2009 Ancient Vines Carignane ($19.95 - #0032177) – this is a kick ass wine full of plum, chocolate, blackberry, cherry and vanilla. (**** ½)

Quintessa 2006 ($99.95 - #0238279) – this one is not just big on price but big on flavour too. (****+) - BAW

Rutherford Ranch 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0073817) – nice Cali-Cab that’ll have people coming back for more. (*** ½+)

Saldo 2009 Zinfandel ($39.95 - #0235903) – this is a very flavourful Zin. (****+)

Stonehedge 2009 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($23.95 - #0025122) – juicy black fruit with just the right hint of red. (*** ½+)

Summers 2006 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($45.95 - #0226597) – super juicy and fruity with lots of black cherry and hit of spice. (****)

(Oregon)

A to Z Wineworks 2006 Chemin de Terre ($14.95 - #0234724) – I’ve had this one many times and have enjoyed it each and every time, don’t pass up this excellent 7 grape blend. (****+) - BAW

(Washington)

Coeur D’Alene 2006 Boushey Vineyard Syrah ($42.95 - #0227579) – nicely balanced meaty Syrah with lots of flavour. (****)

White – 

(California)

L’Avion 2008 Rousanne ($46.95 - #0225391) – ballsy wine with a firm structure, almost Chardonnay-like. (*** ½)

Best Buys (wine(s) that over deliver at their price) …

Domaine de Cray 2009 Montlouis White ($14.95 - #0226589)

A to Z Wineworks 2006 Chemin de Terre ($14.95 - #0234724)

Ventisquero 2010 Reserva Sauvignon Blanc ($12.95 - #0211904)

Gricos 2008 Aglianico del Vulture ($14.95 - #0233833)

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

Monmousseau Brut Rose Cremant de Loire ($16.95 - #0226233) - France

Cline 2009 Ancient Vines Carignane ($19.95 - #0032177) - USA 

Lailey 2009 Chardonnnay ($19.95 - #0193482) - Canada

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.