Saturday June 7, 2014 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

The Foci … Aussie Cabs, Chards and Shiraz (AC2S), Italian Whites (IW) and Dad (DAD)

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

Australia …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chile …

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

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

France (Alsace) …

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

France (Bordeaux) …

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

France (Burgundy) …

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

France (Loire) …

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

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

France (Midi) …

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

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

France (Provence) …

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

France (Rhone) …

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

Germany …

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

Italy (Campania) …

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

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

Italy (Piedmont) …

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

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

Italy (Puglia) …

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

Italy (Veneto) …

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

New Zealand …

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

South Africa …

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

Spain …

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

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

United States (California) …

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

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

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

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

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

________________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Saturday May 24, 2014 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:

5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average

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

The Foci … Fresh Crisp Whites (FCW) and Rhone Roundup (RR)

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

Argentina …

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

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

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

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

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

Australia …

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

Canada (British Columbia) …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chile …

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

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

France (Bordeaux) …

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

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

France (Burgundy) …

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

France (Midi) …

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

France (Rhone) …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

France (Southwest) …

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

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

Italy (Tuscany) …

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

Luxembourg …

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

New Zealand …

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

Portugal …

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

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

Spain …

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

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

United States (California) …

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

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

United States (Oregon) …

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

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

________________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Montes 2010 Alpha Syrah ($19.95 - #000612) – Chile

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Saturday April 26, 2014 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:

5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average

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

The Foci … Sparkling Wine (SpWi) and Bordeaux (BOR)

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

Argentina …

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

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

Australia …

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

Canada (British Columbia) …

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

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

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

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

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

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

Croatia …

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

France (Beaujolais) …

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

France (Bordeaux) …

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

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

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

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

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

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

France (Burgundy) …

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

- SpWi

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

France (Loire) …

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

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

France (Midi) …

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

Italy (Piedmont) …

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

Italy (Tuscany) …

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

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

Italy (Veneto) …

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

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

Portugal …

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

Spain …

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

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

United States (California) …

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

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

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

United States (Oregon) …

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

________________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Saturday April 12, 2014 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:

5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average

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

The Foci … Easter (ETR) and Italian Appassimento (APP)

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

Argentina …

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

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

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

Australia …

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

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

Canada (British Columbia) …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chile …

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

France (Bordeaux) …

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

France (Burgundy) …

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

Italy (Abruzzo) …

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

Italy (Piedmont) …

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

Italy (Tuscany) …

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

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

Italy (Veneto) …

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Zealand …

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

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

Spain …

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

United States (California) …

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

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

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

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

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

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

United States (Oregon) …

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

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

United States (Washington) …

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

________________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Shopping

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Saturday March 29, 2014 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

I am using a 5-star rating system, which appears at the end of each review; here’s the key to the stars:

5 = Outstanding … 4.5 = Excellent … 4 = Very Good … 3.5 = Good … 3 = Average

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

The Foci … Welcome to Vintages (WtV)

The Skinny … The highlight is “30 reasons to love Vintages” – a self-congratulatory nod to the “world’s best purveyor of liquor” … while I disagree with that last statement the release is not a bad one and there are six must gets aside from the usual good stuff to try.

Argentina …

Casarena Sinergy Reserva Red 2011 ($18.95 - #366104) – sweet red fruit with a coffee middle.  (*** ½+)

Colonia Las Liebres 2012 Bonarda ($14.95 - #219303) – Bonarda is Argentina’s answer to a juicy Cali-Merlot and this one delivers.  (*** ½+)

Las Moras 2010 Black Label Cabernet/Cabernet ($15.95 - #357921) – blackberry, tobacco and tea leaf.  (*** ½+) - WtF

Australia …

D’Arenberg 2012 The Hermit Crab Viogner / Marsanne ($19.95 - #662775) – Bosc pear, lemongrass and pineapple core. (*** ½+)

Evans & Tate 2010 Metricup Road Shiraz ($22.95 - #606905) – nice flavour with a raspberry-plum core.  (****)

The Black Chook 2012 Shiraz/Viognier ($17.95 - #66738) – best Chook I’ve tried since the very first one I’ve tried; nice balance of dark fruit, touches of floral and a nice whack of spice on the finish.  (****) – WtV

Yalumba 2011 The Strapper GSM ($19.95 - #295873) – nice blend with fruit that stays and plays with nice herbal and spice notes instead of going out on its own to overpower the wine with a nice finish.  (****+)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Gray Monk 2011 Pinot Noir ($19.95 - #251835) – definitely earthy, smoky with smoked cherry and violets.  (*** ½+) - WtV

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

Coyote’s Run 2012 Red Paw Vineyard Chardonnay ($21.95 - #336115) – **** ½ (WtV)

Featherstone 2011 Four Feathers ($14.95 - #341586) - *** ½+

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

Fielding Estate 2013 Rosé ($15.95 - #53421) - *** ½+ (WtV)

Rockway Vineyards 2011 Small Lot Reserve Red Assemblage ($16.95 - #321893) - *** ½+

Tawse 2012 Gamay Noir ($18.95 - #322545) - ****

Chile …

Vina Tarapaca 2011 Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #018721) – there’s the mint I’m looking for mixed with black fruit and spice; here’s a typical, good Chilean Cab.  (*** ½+)

France (Alsace) …

Joseph Cattin 2011 Hatschbourg Pinot Gris ($20.95 - #260240) – while not a fan of Alsatian Riesling their Pinot Gris and Gewurtraminers do float my boat; this shows a thickness and sweetness that only Alsace can do, and do it with balance.  (*** ½+)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Fleur de Jean Gue 2010 ($24.95 - #729137) – spiced-cocoa and anise with black cherry, blackberry and oak.  (*** ½+) – WtV

Clos Lunelles 2010 ($49.85 - #258053) – heavy smoke and coffee notes with anise and pumped up tannins.  (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Louis Michel & Fils 2012 Chablis ($25.95 - #356758) – pretty with apple, citrus and mineral, not as expressive on the palate, but plenty pleasing. (*** ½+)

Maison Roche de Bellene 2011 Vieilles Vignes Chassagne-Montrachet ($49.95 - #241158) – has lots of character, good intensity and nice weight.  (*** ½+)

France (Loire) …

Cave du Haut-Poitou 2012 Vallee Loire Sauvignon Blanc ($16.95 - #357293) – New Zealand like nose but with restraint shown on the palate with grapefruit pith and grassy notes and a long finish.  (****)

France (Rhone) …

Domaine la Guintrandy 2009 Vieilles Vignes Cairanne ($19.95 - #362624) – savoury and juicy with raspberry, black cherry and some fine herbal and spice notes.  (****+) - WtV

Italy (Marche) …

Casal di Serra 2011 Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore ($17.95 - #268169) – fresh and lively with grapefruit pith and zest, a touch of floral, and there’s a pseudo thickness here that’s pleasantly welcome.  (****)

Italy (Piedmont) …

Gemma Giblin 2006 Riserva Barolo ($40.95 - #185025) – has an unexpected sweetness especially for a Barolo, there’s cran-raspberry elements with a beauty of a spice character. (****)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Assolati Montecucco Sangiovese 2008 ($26.95 - #369405) – sweet red fruit core backed by a nice spice and touch of floral.  (****)

Dievole 2010 La Vendemmia Chianti Classico ($19.95 - #283101) – nice hit of strawberry-plum jam at its core.  (*** ½+) – WtV

Giordano 2010 Chianti Riserva ($17.95 - #366971) – shows some elegance of cassis, plum and black raspberry.  (*** ½+)

New Zealand …

Cloudy Bay 2012 Pinot Noir ($39.95 - #598813) – big flavour and juicy core, earthy, cranberry, hint of spiced plum and black cherry.  (*** ½+)

Coopers Creek 2012 Select Vineyards Dillons Point Sauvignon Blanc ($19.95 - #066092) – typically tinged with the usual Sauv Blanc character plus grapefruit blossom; this is a lively one and pretty at that.  (*** ½+) – WtV

Invivo 2012 Pinot Gris ($18.95 - #367771) – shows some interesting Gewurztraminer character which is unexpected in Pinot Gris; pretty floral and spiced orange, weird yet wonderful. (****)

Kim Crawford 2013 Pansy! Rosé ($17.95 - #650325) – lots of strawberry and cherry with some bubblegummy notes to the nose, but finishes dried than expected.  (*** ½+)

Omaka Springs 2010 Falveys Vineyard Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #367714) – much more toned down and elegant, shows depth with spice, gentile fruit and good acidity.  (****)

Portugal …

Dalva 1997 Colheita Port ($30.95 - #169045) – hazelnut, fig, dried cherry and spice; all make for a tasty treat.  (****)

Lua Nova Em Vinhas Velhas 2010 ($15.95 - #266882) – silky smooth with lots of plum; easy to drink.  (*** ½+)

South Africa …

Bayten 2012 Chardonnay ($17.95 - #269084) – plump white fruit with apple, pear and peach adding vanilla and hints of butterscotch for good measure all with a spicy finish; nice weight without the weighted price, this is good value Chard.  (****)

Spain …

Aljibes 2007 Red ($20.95 - #359976) – pleasant and silky smooth.  (*** ½+)

Barahonda 2011 Sin Madera Monastrell ($15.95 - #366823) – juicy, choco-blackberry, black cherry, blueberry and sweet tobacco; this one has great value in the bottle.  (****) - WtV

United States (California) …

Carol Shelton 2010 Monga Zin Old Vine Zinfandel ($25.95 - #282525) – surprisingly delicious: cola-spice-vanilla, oddly approachable.  (****+)

Chateau St. Jean 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #977173) – nice balance of fruit and spice along with vanilla, black cherry and spice.  (*** ½+)

Rutherford Ranch 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($21.95 - #73817) – black and blue fruit with a chocolate core.  (*** ½+) - WtV

________________________________________

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

Blindfold 2012 ($39.95 - #374207) – California, USA - ****+

Bonaccorsi 2010 Sebastiano Vineyard Pinot Noir ($51.95 - #368225) – California, USA - ****+

Chateau Calon-Segur 2010 ($149.85 - #259010) – Bordeaux, France - ****

Chateau Giscours 2010 ($124.85 - #259093) – Bordeaux, France - *** ½+

Chateau Lafon-Rochet 2010 ($84.85 - #257295) – Bordeaux, France - *** ½+

Le Clos Jordanne 2011 LCJ Vineyard Pinot Noir ($45.00 - #33902) – Ontario, Canada - ****+

Les Hauts de Pontet-Canet 2010 ($62.85 - #258491) – Bordeaux, France (****+)

Tawse 2010 Robyn’s Block Chardonnay ($45.95 - #662841) – Ontario, Canada - ****+

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

Andretta 2007 Brunello di Montalcino ($53.95 - #367367) – Tuscany, Italy ****

Chateau Batailley 2010 ($68.95 - #259218) – Bordeaux, France ****

Rodney Strong 2010 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.95 - #382325) – California, USA ****+

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – March 29, 2014 …

Barahonda 2011 Sin Madera Monastrell ($15.95 - #366823) – Spain

Bayten 2012 Chardonnay ($17.95 - #269084) – South Africa

Carol Shelton 2010 Monga Zin Old Vine Zinfandel ($25.95 - #282525) – California

Domaine la Guintrandy 2009 Vieilles Vignes Cairanne ($19.95 - #362624) – France

The Black Chook 2012 Shiraz/Viognier ($17.95 - #66738) – Australia

Yalumba 2011 The Strapper GSM ($19.95 - #295873) – Australia

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves November 23, 2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Four Star Wines (****) …

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

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

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

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

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

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …

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

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

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

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