Showing posts with label December. Show all posts
Showing posts with label December. Show all posts

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Saturday December 7, 2013 - Vintages Release Report



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

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

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

Argentina …
Callejon del Crimen 2008 Gran Reserva Malbec ($22.95 - #357467) – black cherry and spiced cocoa, this one shows something interesting in a Malbec. (*** ½+)
Finca Flichman 2010 Paisaje de Barrancas ($17.95 - #17129) – nice price for something smooth and tasty with dark berries and slick peppery goodness. (*** ½+)
Pascual Toso Barrancas Vineyards 2010 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #83337) – red fruit dominate, a nice sipper. (*** ½+) - HG

Australia …
Ben Glaetzer 2012 Bishop Shiraz ($39.95 - #627869) – dark, sweet blackberry and black cherry with a hit of vanilla on the finish. (****)
Saltram 2010 Mamre Brook Shiraz ($26.95 - #32227) – intensity of blackberry and chocolate with a touch of vanilla-wood on the finish with hearty tannins. (*** ½+) – HG
Small Gully 2009 The Formula Robert’s Shiraz ($18.95 - #142935) – just what the doctor ordered with lots of that sweet Aussie fruit. (*** ½+)

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

Canada (British Columbia) …
Burrowing Owl 2010 Meritage ($59.95 - #343038) – this one shows some real finesse and elegance, there is nothing over-powering but nothing takes away either: fruit with well-balanced oak and good acidity this wine is dark, brooding and delicious. (**** ½)
Sperling Vineyards 2011 Old Vines Riesling ($34.95 - #361204) – apple and a touch of lemonade and peach pit with just the right amount of mineral and acidity on the finish. (****)
Canada (Ontario) … click on wine name for full review
Cave Spring 2009 Estate Bottled Pinot Noir ($34.95 - #246561) - *** ½+
Cave Spring 2008 Estate Cabernet Franc ($24.95 - #72751) - *** ½+
Flat Rock Cellars 2008 Riddled Sparkling Wine ($24.95 - #187377) – **** (FIZZ)
Henry of Pelham 2009 Estate Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #268391) - ****

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

France (Alsace) …
Andre Blanck et ses Fils 2012 Clos Schwendi Pinot Gris ($18.95 - #686311) – pleasant sweet notes, very easy drinking with good acidity on finish to balance the sweetness. (*** ½+) – HG
Joseph Cattin 2011 Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #224626) – spicy notes on a gentle palate with lots of floral and perfumed notes; doesn’t come off too sweet and there’s a touch of apricot on the mid-palate. (****)
France (Beaujolais) …
Laurent Gauthier 2011 Grand Cras Vieilles Morgon ($17.95 - #279059) – delicious and delightful, serious and complex, lots of wild cherry and white pepper with and intense nose and palate. (****+) - HG
France (Bordeaux) …
Chateau Clement Saint-Jean 2010 ($22.95 - #348771) – smooth with drying tannins, rich blackberry and cassis with cedary-cinnamon backing. (*** ½+) – HG
Chateau Le Conseiller 2009 ($23.85 - #191130) – smooth with blueberry skin and mocha. (****)
France (Burgundy) …
Charles Duret Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($18.95 - #185694) – buttered toast complete with the crusts left on and all balanced with that nice acidity. (*** ½+) – FIZZ
Domaine Jean-Pierre Seve 2011 Terroir Pouilly-Fuisse ($26.95 - #681056) – nice lemon-lime notes along with hay and green apple. (*** ½+)
France (Midi) …
Domaine des Trois Orris Lhusanes 2009 ($19.95 - #353515) – lovely bit of red and black fruit; this one is all fruit all the time. (*** ½+)
France (Rhone) …
Domaine Beau Mistral 2010 Vieilles Vignes Rasteau Cotes du Rhone Villages ($22.95 - #343574) – dark fruited, intense cocoa and spice with tobacco on the finish. (*** ½+) – HG
Domaine Chante Cigale Tradition Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2010 ($41.95 - #194993) – supple and almost sweet fruited, a real pleasure. (****+)
Domaine Mucyn 2010 Saint Joseph ($28.95 - #358614) – smoky, black cherry and spice. (*** ½+)
La Ferme du Mont 2010 Cotes Jugunda Gigondas ($29.95 – #354118) – nice spiced blackberry, dark cherry, vanilla, currants and spice. (****)
Les Vignerons de Visan 2011 Visan Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($15.95 - #179234) – robust red fruit, a little chalky, but with lovely fruit; good value for everyday drinking. (****)

Italy (Abruzzo) …
Villa Medoro 2009 Rosso del Duca Montepulciano D’Abruzzo ($18.95 - #357160) – gentle of fruit yet dark in nature with spiced raspberry and peppered plums. (****) - HG
Italy (Alto Adige / Trentino) …
Ferrari Brut ($25.95 - #352153) – nice bit of fizz here drier than other Italian bubbles in this release with more focus on acidity and breadiness. (****) - FIZZ
Italy (Piedmont) …
Beni di Batasiolo 2010 Langhe Rosso ($16.95 - #981019) – wood, smoke and cherry fruit with hints of tobacco on the dry finish. (*** ½+)
Italy (Tuscany) …
La Vite Lucente 2011 ($34.95 - #747030) – coffee, blueberry and chocolate with a nice plummy mid-palate. (****+)
Le Difese 2011 ($27.95 - #147876) – plenty of spiced red and black fruit with currants and black cherry taking charge amongst the cinnamon and pepper. (****+) – HG
Lornado 2009 Le Bandite Chianti Classico Riserva ($19.95 - #230672) – rustic tannins with heft and cherry spiced plum. (*** ½+) - HG
Rocca delle Macie 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva ($21.95 - #930966) – mixes rustic charm with some juicy fruit and dry tannins. (*** ½+)
Italy (Veneto) …
Allegrini 2010 Palazzo Della Torre ($24.95 - #672931) – raspberry and cherry with chocolate with ripe plum; very full fruited. (****)
Luigi Righetti Campolieti Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2011 ($17.95 - #695890) – dark chocolate, cherry, plum and spice. (****) – HG
Perlage Canah 2012 Brut Prosecco Superiore Conegliano Valdobbiadene ($20.95 - #358390) – nice apple and lemon with mac apple sweetness. (*** ½) - FIZZ

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

Portugal …
Churchill’s Estates 2009 Touriga Nacional ($30.95 - #351643) – nice rich dark fruit with a chocolate finish and linger. (****+)
Newman’s Celebrated Port ($15.95 - #134908) – sweet cherries abound with a pleasant, easy drinking finish.  (*** ½+)

South Africa …
KWV 2010 The Mentors Canvas ($24.95 - #348839) – nice mix of chocolate and vanilla with plum, lots of white pepper and a good finish. (****)
Pecan Stream 2012 Chenin Blanc ($14.95 - #34512) – lanolin and grapefruit rind with nice acidity for balance. (*** ½+)
Simonsig 2011 Kaapse Vonkel Brut Classique ($19.95 - #342758) – peach, apple and toasty with good acidity for balance. (*** ½+) - FIZZ

Spain …
Juan Gil 2012 White Label de Cepas Viejas Monastrell ($15.95 - #13656) – lots and lots of raspberry and cherry, plum, hints of vanilla and a touch of floral; good value. (*** ½+)
Valsacro Dioro 2005 ($32.95 - #345694) – blackberry, smoke, vanilla and plum with hints of chocolate/mocha. (****)

United States (California) …
Belle Glos 2012 Meiomi Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #130138) – rich cherry fruit, silky smooth and easy drinking, there’s also a nice chalkiness to the finish; but seriously, it’s hard to believe this is Pinot. (****) – HG
Bonny Doon 2008 Le Cigare Volant ($48.95 - #975847) – smoky with white pepper, plum, blackberry and floral; really supple tannins. (****+)
Cannonball 2011 Merlot ($22.95 - #342824) – juicy with sweet blueberry and chocolate. (*** ½+)
Chandon Rosé ($32.95 - #56341) – pretty and delicate with hits of raspberry and citrus and a nice biscuity finish; there’s also strawberry jam and apple nuances but this one is not sweet the acid kicks in at the right time. (****) – FIZZ
Decoy 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($31.95 - #186171) – touched with cedar and vanilla along with intense cherry and blackberry. (*** ½+) – HG
Frei Brothers 2011 Reserve Zinfandel ($24.95 - #281758) – plum and vanilla are smeared all over this with nice cherry and chocolate; comes off a little sweet. (*** ½+)
Mer Soleil 2010 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay ($34.95 - #958975) – butterscotch, toffee and vanilla; big oak, sweet fruit. (*** ½+) - HG


If You Can Afford It – wines worth their high price …
Chateau Barde-Haut 2009 ($57.95 - #197244) – Bordeaux - ****+
Chateau La Confession 2009 ($57.85 - #198564) – Bordeaux - ****+
Citation 2003 Pinot Noir ($59.95 - #677146) – Oregon - *** ½+
Henriot Souverain Brut Champagne ($59.95 - #959643) – Champagne - ****+ (FIZZ)
Le Vieux Donjon 2011 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($57.95 - #700922) – Rhone - ****
Michele Castellani 2008 Cinque Stelle Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($53.95 - #75127) – Veneto - **** (HG)
Shafer 2011 Merlot ($67.95 - #346262) – California - ****
Stag’s Leap Winery 2010 Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.95 - #708982) – California - **** (HG)
Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin 2004 Vintage Rosé ($97.99 - #588475) – Champagne - **** (FIZZ)


What I’ll Be Lining Up For – December 7, 2013 …
Laurent Gauthier 2011 Grand Cras Vieilles Morgon ($17.95 - #279059) – Beaujolais, France
Les Vignerons de Visan 2011 Visan Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($15.95 - #179234) – Rhone, France

Happy Shopping



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Tuesday, December 3, 2013

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves December 7, 2013

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

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

Three-and-a-Half Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Chassagne-Montrachet Vide Bourse 1er Cru 2010 ($101.95 - #344887) ... Burgundy, France
Domaine D’Ardhuy 2010 Clos du Roi Grand Cru Corton ($91.95 - #343723) ... Burgundy, France
Gunther Steinmetz 2010 Veldenzer Grafschafter Sonnenberg Riesling Spatlese ($22.95 - #359604) ... Germany
Justino’s 10 Years Old Malvasia Madeira ($42.95 - #349373) … Portugal
Sperling Vineyards 2008 Brut Sparkling ($39.95 - #361436) … British Columbia, Canada
St. Hallett 2004 Blackwell Shiraz ($39.95 - #535104) ... Australia


Four Star Wines (****) …

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

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

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

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


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Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Saturday December 8, 2012 - Vintages Release Report



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 ... Fizz (FZ) and Holiday Gatherings (HG)
The Skinny ... Two amazing red wines from Chile, an aged Chenin from South Africa and a delightful German Riesling make the grade this time.

Argentina ...
Susana Balbo 2010 Signature Malbec ($23.95 - #79798) - big and purple with smoked coffee bean, blackberry, cassis and a smoky vanilla finish. (****)

Australia ...
Ben Glaetzer 2010 The Bishop Shiraz ($39.95 - #627869) - chocolate and coffee with rich black cherry and plum. (****)
De Bortoli 2008 Noble One Botrytis Semillon ($29.95 / 375ml - #917252) - sweet supple and honey dried white fruit with apricot mango and pineapple. (****) - HG
Kurtz Family 2008 Boundary Row Shiraz ($27.95 - #29371) - pretty smooth with plum, cinnamon and vanilla, especially on the finish. (*** 1/2+)

Canada (Ontario) ... click on wine for full review
Cave Spring 2009 Chenin Blanc ($17.95 - #627315) -
Calamus 2010 Cosmic Red ($19.95 - #258129) -
Lailey 2007 Cabernet Franc ($30.00 - #591388) -
Paul Ross 2007 Riesling ($35.00 - #206813) -
Tawse 2009 Quary Road Pinot Noir ($34.95 - #307686) -

Chile ...
Concha y Toro 2011 Marques de Casa Concha Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #301424) - since my last tasting this wine has developed more coffee notes and more spice, it's drinking well and will drink over the next 2-3 years. (****+)
Natura 2011 Unoaked Chardonnay ($14.95 - #61895) - juicy peach and apple with citrus zestiness and nice acidity on the finish. (*** 1/2+)
Ninquen Antu 2010 Chilean Mountain Vineyard Syrah ($16.95 - #675371) - great value, minty blackberry, plum and spice with hints of chocolate and a nice weight. (****+)
Santa Carolina 2009 Reserva de Familia Carmenere ($17.95 - #34942) - pleasant chocolate, brambly, blackberry and biting cherry. (*** 1/2+)

Hungary ...
Puklus Pinceszet Tokaji Aszu 3 Puttonyos 2007 ($20.95 / 500ml - #980805) - apricot, dried peach and a little orange peel. (*** 1/2)

France (Alsace) ...
Charles Wantz 2010 Excellence Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #298539) - spicy, lychee with a nice sweet finish; almost cream in nature. (****)
France (Beaujolais) ...
Jacques Depagneux 2011 Cote de Py Morgon ($18.95 - #299925) - lots of easy to drink cherry fruit. (*** 1/2+) - HG
France (Burgundy) ...
Louis Jadot 2009 Pouilly-Fuisee ($29.95 - #732917) - nice green apple and lemon pith, hint of peach in the mid-palate with a minerality finish. (****)
Domaine Chanson 2009 Beaune Clos des Marconnets 1er Cru ($49.95 - #299792) - nice spiced blackberry and earth notes with plenty of tannins. (****)
France (Champagne) ...
Beaumont des Crayeres Grand Prestige Brut Champagne ($46.95 - #903443) - biscuity with lemon and hazelnuts. (****) - FZ
France (Loire) ...
Marc Bredif 2010 Vouvray ($19.95 - #685362) - touch of delicate sweetness with honeycomb, lemon peel and floral notes too. (*** 1/2+) - HG
France (Midi) ...
Domaine Clavel 2010 Bonne Pioche Pic Saint Loup ($19.95 - #297986) - yummy seductive in the glass, dark in colour with black cherry, chocolate and plum with white pepper and some mineral action. (**** 1/2)
France (Rhone) ...
Famille Perrin 2010 Les Christins Vacqueyras ($23.95 - #973453) - blackberry, cassis, cocoa, baking chocolate and nice hit of black pepper. (****)
Foncalieu 2010 Reserve du Crouzeau St. Gervais Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($15.95 - #142943) - raspberry, strawberry, plum and chocolate. (*** 1/2+)

Germany ...
Dr. Pauly-Bergweiller 2011 Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Spatlese ($24.95 - #727370) - nice bit of acidity keeps this from being over-the-top sweet. (*** 1/2+) - HG
St. Urbans-Hof 2011 Riesling ($16.95 - #995746) - very pretty; there's much going on here with peach, mineral, citrus zest and even some exotic fruit like pineapple. (****+)

Italy (Campania) ...
Terredora 2009 Aglianico ($15.95 - #602284) - coffee, mocha and cranberry. (*** 1/2)
Italy (Piedmont) ...
Balbi Soprani Brachetto D'Acqui ($16.95 - #298570) - sweet bubbly and delicious, lively red berries: raspberry / strawberry with touch of cherry and currants. (****)
Italy (Tuscany) ...
Fassati Pasiteo Vino Nobile di Montepulciano ($22.95 - #642009) - mocha, cherry, plum and strawberry. (*** 1/2+)
Poggio il Castellare 2006 Brunello di Montacino ($47.95 - #293555) - leathery-cranberry, cedar spice and sandlewood, good acidity drives the finish. (****)
Italy (Veneto) ...
Maculan 2011 Pinot Grigio ($13.95 - #734921) - nice peachy citrus throughout. (*** 1/2)

Japan ...
Gekkeikan Horin Ultra Premium Junmai Daiginjo Sake ($39.95 - #951509) - I'm no sake afficianado but this is one delicate and delightful sip. (*** 1/2+)

New Zealand ...
Akarua Rua Pinot Noir 2011 ($19.95 - #295592) - a cross between Burgundy and California; quite nice with good acidity and earthy notes and minerality; cherry, cranberry cocktail; quite pretty and worth the price. (****+)
Goldwater 2011 Sauvignon Blanc ($19.95 - #295261) - peach, passionfruit with grassy and green apple. (*** 1/2+)
Oyster Bay Brut Sparkling Cuvee ($21.95 - #163634) - grassy with great acidity and a pleasant lemonyness. (*** 1/2) - FZ
Waipara 2009 West Ram Paddock Red ($19.95 - #295576) - juicier, fruitier than one would expect: strawberry and framboise note with a real sexy mouthfeel. (*** 1/2+)

Portugal ...
Burmester 10-Year-Old Tawny Port ($24.95 - #223958) - orange peel with spiced cherry nuances, a nice nutty finish. (****) - HG
Herdade do Arrepiado Velho Red ($19.95 - #295337) - a real raspberry-vanilla cherry laced gem from Portugal; almost jammy but real delicious. (****)
Offley 2007 Late Bottled Vintage Port ($19.95 - #70086) - offley good, offley lovely, offley affordable: spicy with concentration of dark, dried fruit all with a dark spiced-chocolate covering. (**** 1/2+)

South Africa ...
Kanu 2006 KCB Chenin Blanc ($14.95 - #907089) - a lot of interesting nuances: vanilla, honeycomb and a spiced finish. (****)

United States (California) ...
Belle Glos 2011 Meomi Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #130138) - continues to be a favourite, juicy and delicious with blackberry, woodsmoke and dried cranberry sweetness with nice spiced-mocha finish and good tannins. (****+)
Darioush 2007 Duel ($48.95 - #291013) - blue and black berry duel it out while spice plays a prominent role between the two. (****)
Gloria Ferrer Va De Vi Ultra Cuvee ($26.95 - #20070) - nice hint of sweetness with delicate apple and lemonade notes. (*** 1/2+) - FZ
Irony 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #25106) - juicy Cali-cab, red fruit and layered with tobacco and currants. (*** 1/2+)
J. Lohr 2009 Hilltop Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($38.95 - #686584) - chocolate, back cherry and vanilla. (*** 1/2+)
Morgan 2009 Twelve Clones Pinot Noir ($38.95 - #642249) - very cherry and strawberry with good acidity though quite juicy. (****)
Pedroncelli 2006 Four Grapes Vintage Port ($19.95 - #204487) - port grapes are used but they lack the port-like climate and port-know-how, it's sweet and has merit but will never overtake the real thing. (*** 1/2)
Stonestreet 2007 Monument Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon ($49.95 - #285098) - nice spicy tannins and darkly-fruited. (****)
The Prisoner 2011 Proprietary Red ($49.95 - #104299) - big alcohol, big fruit, nice flavour all the way to its core. (****)
Trentadue 2010 La Storia Petite Sirah ($23.95 - #291047) - jammy Zinfandel-esque core; plummy-raisined with sweet fruit. (****)
United States (Washington) ...
Chateau Ste. Michelle 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #269357) - mocha, black cherry; smooth and supple. (*** 1/2+)


If You Can Afford It - wines that are worth their high price ...
Chateau St. Jean 2008 Cinq Cepages ($75.95 - #710913) - United States (****)
Mitolo 2009 Serpico Cabernet Sauvignon ($57.95 - 659599) - Australia (****+)
Taittinger Brut Reserve Champagne ($59.95 - #814723) - France (****) - FZ
Ravine 2007 Reserve Red ($55.00 - #204966) - Canada (*** 1/2+)


What I'll Be Lining Up For - December 8, 2012 ...
Akarua Rua Pinot Noir 2011 ($19.95 - #295592) - New Zealand
Ninquen Antu 2010 Chilean Mountain Vineyard Syrah ($16.95 - #675371) - Chile
Offley 2007 Late Bottled Vintage Port ($19.95 - #70086) - Portugal
St. Urbans-Hof 2011 Riesling ($16.95 - #995746) - Germany


Happy Shopping


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Saturday, December 10, 2011

Mid-Month Mini-Release December 17, 2011 Release

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

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

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

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

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


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Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Saturday December 10, 2011 - Vintages Release Report


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

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

Argentina …
Cicchitti 2008 Edicion Limitada Malbec ($23.95 - #0260893) ... strawberry and chocolate, smooth, rich and lush in the mouth. ****
Trivento 2008 Golden Reserve Malbec ($19.95 - #0588731) ... a real fruity number wit hints of chocolate. *** 1/2
Vina Cobos 2009 Felino Malbec ($19.95 - #0118067) ... juicy black fruit, seductive and succulent, lots of raspberry and strawberry too. ****+ (CHEER)

Australia … 
Bishop by Ben Glaetzer 2009 Shiraz ($39.95 - #0627869) ... oppulent, big black fruit, rich and meaty. ****+ (CHEER)
D'Arenberg 2009 The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0943456) ... blackberry and cassis with a dry cedary finish. *** 1/2
Dutschke 2008 God's Hill Road Neigbour Shiraz ($25.95 - #0247296) ... nice blackberry spice, black pepper, plum with chocolate sauce. ****

Canada …
(British Columbia)
Gray Monk 2009 Gewurztraminer ($18.95 - #0321588) ... rosy and lychee nose with sweet grapefruit and tropical notes. ****+
Mission Hill 2007 Oculus ($70.00 - #0009316) ... there's some real finesse to this wine, dark fruit and layers of flavour with lovely spice. ****+
Osoyoos Larose 2007 Le Grand Vin ($99.95 - #0662759) ... another piece of finesse from BC, raspberry, smoked vanilla, dark chocolate and good tannin structure. ****+ (CHEER)

(Ontario) - visit OntarioWineReview.com for full review
Inniskillin 2010 Sparkling Vidal Icewine ($69.95 - #0560367) - FIZZ
Stoney Ridge 2007 Vidal Icewine ($34.95 / 375ml - #0337402)
Chateau des Charmes 2008 Old Vines Riesling ($16.95 - #0277228) - CHEER
Reif Estate 2007 First Growth Cabernet /Merlot ($40.00 - #0043869)
Vineland 2009 Pinot Meunier ($14.965 - #0225508)

Chile …
Lapostolle 2009 Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.95 - #0947929) ... deep, dark colour, blackberry, black cherry and spice with hints of coffee on the finish and lush mocha undertones. **** 1/2
Montes 2009 Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0322586) ... minty raspberry and red cherry, very quaffable. ****+
Montes 2009 Alpha Carmenere ($19.95 - #0143230) ... minty with blackberry goodness and with enough tannins to keep it interesting. ****+ (CHEER)

France … 
(Alsace)
Pierre Sparr Brut Reserve Crement D'Alsace ($16.95 - #0173401) ... nice and creamy mouthfeel, with nice lemon and vanilla notes. *** 1/2 (FIZZ)
Anne Boecklin 2008 Pinot Gris Reserve ($18.95 - #0106831) ... sweet peach and honeyed pear. *** 1/2 (CHEER)
(Bordeaux)
Chateau la Dauphine 2008 ($29.00 - #0173500) ... black fruit dominant with good tannin backbone; good for short term ageing. *** 1/2
Chateau Mondot 2008 ($45.00 - #0137463) ... chocolate, red cherry, supple and tasty; red licorice notes can be found amongst the tannins - this one will age nicely but is drinking well now. **** 1/2
(Burgundy)
Domaine Chanson 2008 Beaune Teurons 1er Cru ($43.95 - #0084426) ... cherry, mineral, strawberry and spice. *** 1/2+
(Champagne)
Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne ($54.95 - #0036962) ... lovely biscuit with almond and honey notes, very elegant shows some real finesse. **** 1/2 (FIZZ)
(Rhone)
Clos du Calvaire 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape ($34.95 - #0728139) ... smooth rich and dark fruited; chocolate, cherry, smoke, and herbal notes with some cocoa. ****
Domaine Barville 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape ($43.95 - #0148841) ... rich dark fruit, plum, black cherry and chocolate. ****+ (CHEER)
Perrin & Fils 2009 L'Andeol Cotes du Rhone Villages Rasteau ($19.95 - #0976845) ... raspberry, chocolate, cherry, white pepper with a nice lengthy finish. ****+
Pierre Amadieu 2009 Domaine Grand Romane Cuvee Prestige Gigondas ($27.95 - #0968693) ... nice dark cherry, good chalkiness with some anise and blackberry. ****

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

Italy …
(Alto Adige)
Peter Zemmer 2010 Pinot Grigio ($15.95 - #0095802) ... nice flavour of apple with a touch of pineapple. *** 1/2 (CHEER) 
(Piedmont)
Bava 2005 Barolo ($44.95 - #0232462) ... spiced cherry and dried raspberry. *** 1/2
(Tuscany)
San Felice 2007 Il Grigio Chianti Classico Riserva ($26.95 - #0716266) ... a fruit driven jobby with a nice mix of rustic and new world fruitiness on the finish. *** 1/2
San Guido 2009 Le Difese ($26.95 - #0147876) ... nose of mocha, chocolate, black cherry and sweet spice with rich fruit; palate that's has some subtlety but still with dark berries, mineral, spice and coffee bean. ****+ (CHEER)
Tenuta Sette Ponti 2008 Crognolo ($33.95 - #0727636) ... intense black currant with a slight woodsy note and drying tannins; good spice and a nice finish. ****
(Veneto)
Monte Zovo 2009 Sa'Solin Ripasso Valpolicella ($17.95 - #0650713) ... chocolate, blackberry, currant, sweet spice, black cherry, vanilla and plum; quite complex. ****+
Trabucchi D'illasi Terra del Galante Amarone della Valpolicella 2007 ($41.95 - #0248500) ... rich fruit, dark chocolate, black cherry, spiced plum. ****+

New Zealand … 
Astrolabe 2010 Voyage Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #0010421) ... lively grapefruit beginning leads to a mineral/slate style finish. *** 1/2 (CHEER)
Konrad 2010 Sauvignon Blanc ($17.95 - #0616243) ... typically New Zealand-style savvy B with pea pod, grapefruit pith and grassy notes. *** 1/2
Mt. Beautiful 2009 Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #0250514) ... mixes the tropical with the grassy for a pleasant version of this popular variety. ****
Hawkshead 2008 Pinot Noir ($30.95 - #0140632) ... nice nose with black cherry and earthy notes and the palate follows suit with touches of cranberry and good acidity. **** (CHEER)

Portugal ...
Fonseca Bin No. 27 Reserve ($15.95 - #0156877) ... chocolate, mocha and spiced black cherry with a biting finish. ****
Noval Tawny ($16.95 - #0141119) ... spiced chocolate and plum with a nice finish of spiced cherry and cocoa. ****+
Ramos Pinto Quinta da Ervamoira 10 Year Old Tawny ($35.95 - #0133751) ... dried red cherry with nice spice and a real kick to the finish. *** 1/2+

Spain …
Inurrieta Cuatrocientos 131 Crianza 2007 ($15.95 - #0246710) ... vanilla, black cherry, sweet licorice, cedar and herbs. *** 1/2
Juan Gil 2008 Monastrell ($21.95 - #0001677) ... smoky, spicy, raspberry-strawberry, cocoa, blueberry, vanilla and oak; comlex and really inviting. ****+

United States … 
(California)
Quady 2010 Essensia Orange Muscat ($13.95 / 375ml - #0299552) ... aromas of orange blossom, vanilla, honeyed apricot follow thruough on the palate with a lovely spice to the finish. *** 1/2+
Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut Sparkling Wine ($21.95 -  #0192898) ... lovely biscuity notes on the noses with a light raspberry-ness to the flavour; good acidity and a pretty salmon colour just adds to the enjoyment. **** (FIZZ)
Roederer Estate Brut Sparkling ($28.95 - #0294181) ... hazelnut biscuits with lemon pith notes. *** 1/2 (FIZZ)
La Crema 2009 Chardonnay ($37.95 - #0067231) ... buttery caramel with peach and lime on the finish. *** 1/2+
Robert Young 2007 Chardonnay ($49.95 - #0670430) ... rich and succulent in the mouth: vanilla, butter oak with a spiced finish; lacks fruit but this one has all the lumber some Chard lovers like. *** 1/2+
Shafer 2009 Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay ($59.95 - #0045583) ... big, rich, full and buttery with a nice spicy finish; it too lack a fruit component but if you like this style you'll dig this wine. *** 1/2
Belle Glos 2009 Clark & Telephone Vineyard Pinot Noir ($39.95 - #0652883) ... ripe dark fruit, spicy blackberry, white pepper and some coffe notes. ****
Beringer 2006 Napa Valley Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.95 - #0091058) ... nice spice, semi-sweet chocolate and ripe tannins. *** 1/2+ (CHEER)
Folie a Deux 2009 Menage a Trois Red ($17.95 - #0665158) ... succulent almost sweet, a real party pleaser - a party in its own name: don'tcha love it when they say "I love Menage a Trois"; makes my heart skip a beat. *** 1/2 
Freemark Abbey 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.95 - #0238758) ... smoky, meaty, black currant and biting tannins. ****
Macrostie 2006 Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir ($38.95 - #0012740) ... dark cherry, spice with good acidity and a nice dry finish. *** 1/2+
Raymond Family 2008 Classic Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.95 - #0254268) ... chocolate and red cherry, a lovely easy drinking Cab that's juicy and supple with vanilla and spice backing. ****+ (CHEER)

If You Can Afford It (they’re pricey but worth it) …
Laurent Perrier 2002 Brut Champagne ($74.95 - #0983874) - FIZZ
Roux Pere & Fils 2009 Meursault Blagny 1er Cru ($56.95 - #0241141)
Chateau Montelena 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($134.95 - #0709881) - CHEER
Duckhorn 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($74.95 - #0024190) - CHEER
Joseph Phelps 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($74.95 - #0189795)
Bodegas y Vinedos 2007 Alion ($78.95 - #0199331)

Best Buys (wine that over delivers for its price) …
Chateau Rochecolombe 2009 Cotes du Rhone ($14.95 - #0255034) - France ... ****+

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on December 10, 2011:
Raymond Family 2008 Classic Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.95 - #0254268) - USA
Vina Cobos 2009 Felino Malbec ($19.95 - #0118067) - Argentina
Lapostolle 2009 Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #0947929) - Chile

Happy Shopping



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Sunday, December 19, 2010

Vintages Shop Online December 2, 2010 Release

December 9, 2010 ... At the Vintages tasting for the January 8 release (report coming soon), I had the opportunity to sample some of the ‘Vintages Shop Online’ wines, which were released to the public on December 2nd, 2010.  All except one was a Bordeaux wine.  Here are my favourite of 15 wines, no notes just star ratings:

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
Chateau Ferriere 2007 ($46.00 - #0567651) – France, Bordeaux, Red

Four Star Wines (****) …
Chateau Bouscaut Blanc 2007 ($55.00 - #0581025) – France, Bordeaux, White
E. Guigal La Doriane Condrieu 2008 ($89.00 - #0040527) – France, Rhone, White
Chateau L’Arrosee 2006 ($75.00 - #0564757) – France, Bordeaux, Red

Four-and-a-Half Star Wines (**** ½) …
Chateau Canon 2007 ($88.00 - #0099572) – France, Bordeaux, Red
Chateau Clos de Sarpe 2007 ($88.00 - #0099622) – France, Bordeaux, Red
Chateau Lagrange 2007 ($65.00 - #0580761) – France, Bordeuax, Red

Four-and-a-Half Star Plus Wines (**** ½+) …
Chateau Pontet-Canet 2006 ($109.00 - #0564815) – France, Bordeaux, Red
notes: awesome, well-balanced, stunning

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Thursday, December 2, 2010

Saturday December 11, 2010 - Vintages Release


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

The only release in December is all about “festive celebrating”, as we get into gift giving season the LCBO believes you’re going to pry your wallet open a little wider.  I am going to forego segregating the “holiday” wines and put them all in their country of origin.  Here we go …

Argentina – Red …
Kaiken 2008 Ultra Malbec ($19.95 - #0050849) – sweet black fruit, black cherry, plum and licorice notes, with a little vanilla on the finish. (****)
Los Clop 2006 Reserva Malbec ($15.95 - #0186650) – a good price for this sweet red licorice dominated wine. (*** ½)
Trapiche Fausto Orellana de Escobar Single Vineyard Malbec 2007 ($39.95 - #0178145) – rich colour which matches the flavour:  lots of big black fruit, coffee, mocha blackberry and a touch of mineral complexity. (**** ½) 

Argentina – White …
Alamos 2009 Torrontes ($13.95 - #0081539) – you’d swear this is a Gewurztraminer knock-off on the nose with all the floral/rosy notes coming off it, and the palate is no different … this one’s nice and light at a price worth picking up.  If you haven’t tried Torrontes yet this would be a good time.  (*** ½)

Australia – Dessert …
Dutschke Old Codger Tawny ($19.95 - #0199786) – this is a real beauty for those who like Tawnies with a twist: caramel coated roasted almonds with a cherry sweetness and spicy finish. (**** ½)

Canada – Dessert …
(Ontario)

Canada – Red …
(Ontario)
Stratus 2007 Cabernet Franc ($38.20 - #0665034)

Canada – Sparkling …
(British Columbia)
Sumac Ridge 2006 Steller’s Jay Brut Sparkling Wine ($24.95) – there’s a lovely lemony smell which turns into a fun fizz with a touch of sweet apple and lemon rind on the palate, the real winning part here is the peach finish. (****)
(Ontario)
Peller Estates Ice Cuvee Rosé ($35.20 - #0113035)

Canada – White …
(Ontario)
Thirty Bench 2009 Riesling ($18.70 - #0024133)

Chile – Red …
Casa Silva 2008 Los Lingues Gran Reserva Carmenere ($17.95 - #0059477) – big on mint, black fruit and raspberry liqueur. (****)
Santa Ema Amplus Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 ($19.95 - #0076307) – the nose smells juicy with sweet red fruit but does not lead to juiciness on the palate where it’s dry dark fruit, this interesting dichotomy ends with a nice black fruit finish. (****)

France – Red …
(Bordeaux)
Chateau Rigaud 2008 ($18.95 - #0198366) – lots of darkness in fruit and colour, graphite, blackberry, cassis, cinnamon, spice with coffee finish and plenty of tannin grip. (****)
(Burgundy)
Vincent Lacombe Pommard 2009 ($36.95 - #0185637) – cherry and plum kicks it off leading to dark fruit and tannins in the mouth; this Pinot has real stuffing with spices and herbs on the finish, leaves the tongue a little dusty. (****)
(Midi)
Hecht & Bannier Minervois 2007 ($18.95 - #0017764) – nice dark fruit: cassis, black cherry jam with just enough spice to make the mix very delish. (**** ½)
(Rhone)
Le Vieux Donjon 2008 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($52.95 - #0700922) – sweet smoke and red licorice on the nose, spice, licorice and blackberry on the palate. (****)

France – Sparkling …
(Burgundy)
Charles Duret Brut Cremant de Bourgogne ($17.95 – 0185694) – great acidity with bread, biscuit and hazelnut; simple yet sexy. (****)
(Champagne)
Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Blue Top Brut Champagne ($49.95 - #0068288) – toasty and nutty with an alluring nose and nice palate, creamy smooth and delicious. (**** ½)

France – White …
(Alsace)
Anne Boecklin 2008 Reserve Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #0141226) – now here’s the real deal.  Pretty nose with an even better palate: touch of floral, a little bit of thrills gum soapiness with a dash of spice; delicate and delicious while being impressively priced. (**** ½)
(Burgundy)
Jean-Pierre Teissedre 2009 Pouilly Fuisse ($22.95 - #0183483) – delicate and fresh, fruity and flavourful, definitely one you’ll enjoy. (****)

Italy – Red …
(Tuscany)
Rocca Delle Macie Chianti Riserva 2006 ($15.00 - #0111641) – good value for this wine that’s a little rough around the edges, but the herbs, spice and dried fruit make it very delicious. (****½)
Tenuta Sette Ponti Oreno 2007 ($69.95 - #0735597) – a real beauty, big, luscious and delicious. (**** ½)
(Veneto)
Tenuta Sant’Antonio Selezione Antonio Castagnedi Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006 ($41.95 - #0685107) – this one is lovely, simply lovely. (****)
Italy – Sparkling Wine …
(Veneto)
Santa Margherita Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore ($17.95 - #0687582) – light and fruity, good fizz with lemon and apple notes; an easy sipper. (****)

New Zealand – Red …
Kim Crawford Small Parcel Rise and Shine Creek Pinot Noir 2007 ($29.95 - #0035337) – lots of dark fruit with hints of earth and smoked cranberry. (****)

New Zealand – White …
Wither Hills Wairau Valley 2009 Sauvignon Blanc ($18.95 - #0919514) – typical fruit driven number with lots of grass, gooseberry and grapefruit all with good acidity; very appealing. (****)

Spain – Red …
Acustic Celler Acustic 2008 ($18.95 - #0190728) – nice fruit, sweet blackberry, cassis, hints of red licorice; layers of fruit, spice and chocolate. (**** ½)
Juan Gil 2009 White Label de Cepas Viejas Monastrell ($14.95 - #0013656) – cherries and spice and everything nice, that’s what this Juan Gil is made of; good value too. (**** ½)
Solar de Libano 2006 Crianza ($14.95 - #0190579) – red raspberry and licorice with good wood notes, touch of dried cran-cherry, lots of life in this bottle. (****)
Vina Vilano Crianza 2006 ($14.95 - #0190777) – sweet fruit of both red and black, pepper, spice, a little woody with some mineral notes on the finish. (****)

Spain – Sparkling …
Segura Viudas Brut Reserve Heredad Cava ($29.95 - #0558825) – slightly sweet sparkle with mac apple, this is a good fizz for easy quaffing and a fair bit of partying. (****)

United States – Red …
(California)
Cliff Lede 2006 Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon ($126.95 - #0014209) – the smell is supple, silky and sexy, so is the taste; pricey but tasty. (****)
Ridge 2008 Geyserville ($43.95 - #0723072) – inky colour, flavours are smoky, chocolate, mocha mixed in with some black raspberry. (****)
(Oregon)
Domaine Serene Yamhill Cuvee Pinot Noir 2007 ($46.95 - #0186858) – it’s a cross between the earthiness of France and the fruitiness of California, a nice bridge showing what has made Oregon famous. (****)

United States – Sparkling …
(California)
Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut Sparkling Wine ($23.95 - #0192898) – Gloria makes some nice bubbles with light aromatics that are fizzy and friendly, this is no different. (****)

United States – White …
Fog Crest 2006 Chardonnay ($47.95 - #0211292) – holy cow, what a lovely nose of baked caramel apple pie, the palate is succulent with almond/hazelnut toffee and I liked the apparent sweetness though it finished dry; and that finish was cheek-sucklingly good. (****½)
Gainey Vineyard 2008 Chardonnay ($24.95 - #0205484) – nice vanilla and fruit with a touch of caramel, nut and it all culminates on a beautiful finish that makes it very appealing. (****) 
McManis Family Vineyards 2009 Viognier ($19.95 - #0658112) – big exotic fruit nose and the palate follows; decent amount of acidity on the finish, all finished with the flavour of pineapple core which seems to hang around forever. (**** ½)

Grape Guy Holiday Top 5 … I’ll be lining up for on December 11, 2010:
Dutschke Old Codger Tawny ($19.95 - #0199786) – Australia
McManis Family Vineyards 2009 Viognier ($19.95 - #0658112) – USA
Hecht & Bannier Minervois 2007 ($18.95 - #0017764) – France
Rocca Delle Macie Chianti Riserva 2006 ($15.00 - #0111641) - Italy
Acustic Celler Acustic 2008 ($18.95 - #0190728) - Spain

Happy Shopping.


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Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Saturday December 5, 2009 - Vintages Release


I have gone to a stars rating system which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to those stars:
5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average
I’m always looking for good value and I’m not afraid to give or take away a half mark for it – I’ll let you know when I’ve done so.

It’s the last Vintages release of the year, which means the LCBO has partying on its mind – so today’s release has dinner wines and fizzy wines on the menu.

What’s for Dinner …
First up, we’ll start with dessert, no better way to begin a party on paper then with a wine that wraps the whole party up. Delaforce 2004 Late Bottled Vintage Port ($16.95 - #014087), red cherries and chocolate, a touch of cinnamon and some spiced plum; well priced (*****). From the Napa Valley comes the Clos Pegase 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($52.95 - #0268235), this wine has good black fruit and fine Corinthian leather on the nose, the palate is like going to the fruit market in a new Chrysler Cordoba, also nice finishing tannins here (****). Also from California is the Macrostie 2006 Pinot Noir ($25.95 - #0674911), loads of juicy cherry on the nose, earthy, mineral palate with a big finish (****). Argentinean wine fans will enjoy the Bodegas Santa Ana 2006 La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #0066720), minty blackberry, chocolate, smoky, spice and a nice tannin component (****). French vino fans will enjoy the Chateau Camensac 1995 ($54.95 - #0155564), yup a ’95, you’re heard of the In Store Discoveries at the LCBO, well this in a Lost In Warehouse Discovery, but it was a good time to find this one: smooth dried fruit and cedar notes; if you don’t have the inclination to age your wines the LCBO has done it for you (****). From Italy, Piccini 2005 Chianti Classico Reserva ($19.95 - #0134791), coffee, leather, black fruit, nice tannins and a dry finish (****). Portugal should also have a reservation at your holiday table, V. Leite de Faria Gloria Reserva 2004 ($17.95 - #0146522), juicy red and black fruit, herbs and spice, gentle tannins and a smoky finish (****). Finally, I can recommend a Spanish goody, Herencia Remondo La Montesa 2006 ($19.95 - #0674572), sweet plumy notes, juicy cherry, hints of raspberry and a floral sensation (****½).

Here Comes the Fizz …
I have three to recommend here: 13th Street 2004 Premier Cuvee Brut ($28.00 - #0142679), mac apple and lemon curd on the nose, green apple and nice acidity in the mouth (****½). Chandon Blanc de Noirs Sparkling Wine ($23.95 - #0100693), moussey character, apple and creamy with good acid and nice length. And then there’s this Burgundian beauty, Louis Bouillot Perle D’Aurore Brut Rosee Cremant de Bourgogne ($18.95 - #0048793), beautiful light pink in colour, creamy light strawberry in the mouth, gentle bubbly mousse at a really good price; very enjoyable (****½).

Argentina – Red …
Catena 2007 Merlot ($19.95 - #0057976) – My only 5-star table wine of the release, and this is a beauty. Lovely ripe red fruit nose with cherry and licorice. The palate is juicy and loaded with fruit and just the right amount of dustiness on the finish. (*****)
Los Clop 2008 Malbec ($10.95 - #0135244) – This is an amazing bargain of a wine. The nose is chocolate, cherry, plum and cassis while the palate is juicy as sin loaded with cherry, chocolate and vanilla.
Zolo 2006 Reserve Malbec ($16.95 - #0081091) – Another value wine from Argentina with huge blackberry, cassis, dark chocolate and plum notes on the nose. Palate-wise its dusty with a dark fruit finish. It needs time to come around, but shows signs of being wonderful in the next few years.

Australia – Red …
Coriole Redstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 ($17.95 - #0141960) – mint, cherry, cassis, vanilla, cinnamon with a touch of dried plum. (****)
Fools Bay 2008 Dusty’s Desire Shiraz ($17.95 - #0141887) – big blackberry, cassis and mocha notes which follow on the palate with great juiciness, lots of sweet fruit and a dab of pepper … watch out for the high alcohol on this easy on the palate wine. (****)
Wolf Blass 2007 Gold Label Cabernet Sauvignon ($27.95 - #0606939) – nice rich black fruit with spiced plum backing. (****)

Canada – Red …
(Ontario)
Inniskillin 2007 Reserve Series Cabernet Franc ($16.95 - #0091140)

Canada – White …
(Ontario)
Flat Rock Cellars 2008 Nadja’s Vineyard Riesling (#0578625)

Chile – White …
Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2008 ($15.95 - #0135426) – big, bright and lively: gooseberry, lemon-lime and grassy notes with a racy finish. (****½)
Tabali Reserva Especial Chardonnay 2007 ($18.95 - #0663005) – peachy vibrancy, easy sipper with not too much oak on the palate; there’s good balance here. (****)

France – Red …
(Bordeaux)
Chateau Hauchat 2006 ($15.00 - #0123489) – Good value for a Bordeaux red; nice juicy black fruit, spices and big tannins, quite enjoyable. (****)
La Fleur Anne 2005 ($19.95 - #0139048) – vanilla, smoky, tobacco, big tannin bite that dries out the mouth, there is a nice juiciness through the mid-palate which turns a bit hollow near the end giving way to that dryness mentioned above. (****)
(Rhone)
Domaine des Mascarons Cotes du Rhone-Villages 2007 ($14.95 - #0142174) – spiced cherry and plum, the aromas follow smoothly across the tongue ending with a peppery lengthy finish with herbs and spice, and a little dustiness. Great value. (****½)

France – White …
(Alsace)
Helfrich 2008 Pinot Gris ($13.95 - #0141788) – sweet peach and pear notes, refreshing and tasty, it might have a short finish but it’s still very pleasant going down. (****)

Italy – Red …
(Tuscany)
Antinori 2006 Guado al Tasso ($89.95 - #0986380) – mineral, black fruit and pepper, with big tannins; this one is going places in years to come. (****½)

Italy – White …
(Piedmont)
L’Armangia Il Giai Moscato D’Asti 2008 ($14.95 - #0135632) – grapey ginger ale notes on the nose, tropical flavoured with bubble gum and melony tastes. (****)

Portugal – Red …
Catapereiro 2006 Vinho Tinto ($14.95 - #008358) – jammy and juicy is the best way to describe this one; raspberry pie, blackberry fruit and a touch of dried cherries with earthy tannins on the finish. (****½)

South Africa – Red …
The Goatfather 2008 ($13.95 - #0011072) – cherry and brambly notes with some earth and leather on the back palate; slightly tarry but that’s mixed with nice blackberry notes on the aftertaste. (****)

Spain – Red …
Puerta Bonita G5 Garnacha 2007 ($19.95 - #0132266) – sweet cherries all the way through, it’s a one dimensional wine but a dimension I’d go back to again and again – enjoy that long cherry finish. (****)

United States – Red …
(California)
Frei Brothers 2006 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($23.95 - #0038075) – blackberry, tobacco and black cherry on the nose, smoky, sweet mid-palate with a little white pepper. (****)
J. Lohr 2007 Los Osos Merlot ($18.95 - #0027516) – juicy, almost sweet blackberry and cherry, this one’s quite tasty. (****)
Ridge 2007 Three Valleys ($31.95 - #0652875) – a blend with Zinfandel taking the lion’s share of the work (76%); sweet fruit, cherry, plum with dusty tannins. (****)

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on December 5, 2009:
Catena 2007 Merlot ($19.95 - #0057976) – Argentina
Los Clop 2008 Malbec ($10.95 - #0135244) – Argentina
Domaine des Mascarons Cotes du Rhone-Villages 2007 ($14.95 - #0142174) – France

Happy Shopping.


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Monday, December 1, 2008

Saturday December 6, 2008 - Vintages Release


Last release Vintages had their “Premium Product” selection, this time out they raise the bar even further with the Icons release – wines every wine lover or casual wine drinker would have heard of (or heard whispers about). Wines with big price tags and make exceptional gifts; there’s also a bunch of sparkling wines and Champagne’s for the holidays.

This is the LCBO’s last Vintages release of the year and it’s a big one. I missed the regular media tasting a few weeks back so I had to sit in with the in-store consultants and because of the enormity, and limited amount of time, I had to pick and chose my way through the room (over 140 wines alone). Below you’ll find my selections from the ‘So Fine’ section of the catalogue, including the bubbly and Niagara Stars. As usual full reviews for Ontario wines can be found on my website (www.ontariowinereview.com) - just click on the link. What comes next is not for the feint of heart when it comes to wine prices. Now, on with the show:

So Fine – Sparkling Wine …
There are plenty of bubbles to choose from, 13 in total, including a fizzy icewine from Inniskillin (2006 Sparkling Icewine - $69.95 – #086884); but if you’re looking for something bubbly from the region that made it famous there’s the Pol Roger Extra Cuvee de Reserve Champagne Brut 1999 ($82.95 - #989137), you don’t see a lot of vintage Champagne’s because they’re only made in the really good years and this is really good, with a slightly sweet note and lengthy finish - crisp citrus, apple and quite the buttered toast note … great for, you know, toasting the moment.

As you can see, paging through the LCBO guide, Champagne can get incredibly pricey, why not go for the local alternative with the always impressive and delicious Henry of Pelham Cuvee Catharine Sparkling Brut ($29.95 - #616441).

So Fine – Niagara …
The LCBO has chosen to recognize Niagara as a fine wine producer, and good for them, shining the light where it rightfully belongs, in our own backyard. Some of the wines the LCBO chose to highlight (and that I agree with) are:
Chateau des Charmes 2005 Equuleus ($40.00 – #319525)
Fielding Estate 2005 Meritage ($35.20 - #085050)
Inniskillin 2007 Riesling Icewine ($69.95 - #558288)
Le Clos Jordanne 2006 Village Reserve Chardonnay ($30.00 - #033936)
Le Clos Jordanne 2006 Village Reserve Pinot Noir ($30 - #033894)
Tawse 2006 Pinot Noir ($32.20 - #054809)

So Fine – The Icons …
These are the labels you long for:
(California)
Shafer “One Point Five” 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($77.95 - #045476) – big spicy nose, sweet licorice and blackberries on the palate.
Far Niente 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($140 - #539098) – sweet nose, lush palate, big price.

(Australia)
Elderton “Command” Single Vineyard Shiraz 2004 ($96.95 - #716142) – sweet fruit, cherries and chocolate, this one’s lush and lovely and meant to age.

(Italy)
Ornellaia 2005 ($158.95 - #722470) – great wine… peppery, herby, spicy, black fruit oriented, smooth and silky with tons of time ahead of it.
Masi 2003 Serego Alighieri Vaio Amaron ($77.95 - #462812) – of the three Amarone this one had it all, for less … smooth chocolate and black fruit with lots of cherry.

Ontario … White …
Malivoire 2006 Gewurztraminer ($26.00 - #542522)

Australia … Red …
Kilikanoon 2006 Killerman’s Run Shiraz/Grenache ($20.95 - #009225) – peppery on the nose, sweet fruit on the palate.
Taltarni 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.95 - #940692) – very black fruit oriented, juicy and tasty.
Wallace by Ben Glaetzer 2006 Shiraz/Grenache ($26.95 - #047605) – the LCBO breaks the under-twenty ceiling with this “Wine of the Month”. This big (15.8%) alcohol wine keeps the alcohol smell at bay. Look ahead to the Fess Parker (USA) in this report; I think their taste profiles are similar but this one is scaled back and less in your face, and at half the price that’s okay.

Chile … Red …
Estampa 2004 Gold ($17.95 - #047522) – the nose has heavy mint notes with blackberry and strawberry backing it up; on the palate it’s mostly black fruit while the tannins are silky and smooth.
Vina Tarapaca 2005 Gran Reserve Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #081190) – juicy fruits with minty notes on both the smell and taste.

France … Red …
(Bordeaux)
Chateau D’Aiguilhe 2005 ($47.95 - #501205) – a real treat of herbs, spice and blackberries, this one tastes fresh and lively with tannins that’ll last 10 years plus.

(Rhone)
Ortas Rasteau Tradition 2007 ($16.95 - #998716) – Red fruit and light nose, raspberry taste with a touch of tannins and licorice.

Germany … White …
Wegeler 2007 Riesling Spatlese ($33.95 - #087452) – fresh and sweet.
Schloss Schonborn 2001 Riesling ($15.95 - #081836) – big on petrol and talc on the nose with peach and apricot in the mouth.

Italy … Red …
(Veneto)
Bertani Villa Novare Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso 2005 ($25.95 - #095810) – plum, chocolate and blackberry with good tannins and a lingering finish.
Zonin 2005 Amarone Della Valpolicella ($54.95 - #086207) – plum and chocolate with a black cherry liqueur note; great on the palate.

USA … Red …
(California)
Fess Parker 2004 The Big Easy Syrah ($40.95 - #083212) – you can smell the alcohol coming from this one (15.9%) and also the pepper, which accosts the nose head on; follows up in the mouth with some big and bold fruit flavours a surprising chocolate mid-palate and smooth finish.
Ridge 2006 Three Valley ($29.95 - #652875) – easy on the palate with plums and juicy blackberries.
Silverado Vineyards 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon ($50.95 - #111880) – big juicy blackberries with chocolate, plums and herbs.
St. Francis 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #671164) – good value for this juicy black fruit number, which also has good vanilla notes.

Grape Guy Top 3 … what I’ll be lining up for on December 6, 2008:
Fess Parker 2004 The Big Easy Syrah ($40.95 - #083212) – USA, California
Wallace by Ben Glaetzer 2006 Shiraz/Grenache ($26.95 - #047605) - Australia
Vina Tarapaca 2005 Gran Reserve Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #081190) – Chile

If I had the money –without a doubt:
Ornellaia 2005 ($158.95 - #722470)

Happy Shopping.


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