Saturday June 21, 2014 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

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

The Foci … Unique Grape Varieties (UGV), Europe vs New World (EVN), and Canada Day (CD)

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

Argentina …

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

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

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

Australia …

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

Austria …

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

Canada (British Columbia) …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chile …

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

France (Alsace) …

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

France (Beaujolais) …

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

France (Bordeaux) …

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

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

France (Burgundy) …

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

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

France (Loire) …

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

France (Rhone) …

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

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

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

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

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

France (Southwest) …

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

Germany …

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

Greece …

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

Italy (Emilia-Romagna) …

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

Italy (Puglia) …

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

Italy (Tuscany) …

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

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

Italy (Umbria) …

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

Italy (Veneto) …

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

New Zealand …

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

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

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

South Africa …

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

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

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

Spain …

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

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

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

United States (California) …

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

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

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

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

United States (Washington) …

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

________________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Saturday June 7, 2014 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

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

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

Australia …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chile …

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

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

France (Alsace) …

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

France (Bordeaux) …

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

France (Burgundy) …

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

France (Loire) …

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

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

France (Midi) …

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

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

France (Provence) …

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

France (Rhone) …

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

Germany …

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

Italy (Campania) …

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

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

Italy (Piedmont) …

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

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

Italy (Puglia) …

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

Italy (Veneto) …

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

New Zealand …

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

South Africa …

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

Spain …

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

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

United States (California) …

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

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

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

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

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

________________________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Vintages Shop Online June 27, 2013 Release

Here are scores for 4 of the 7 wines being release on the 27th of June thru Vintages Shop-On-Line, three of the wines were just not available for tasting ... no notes are given, just the star rating.

Four Star Wines (****+) …

Domaine Chante Cigale 2010 Vieilles Vignes Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($N/A - #073551) … Rhone, France

Dr. Burklin-Wolf 2007 Hohenmorgen Riesling G.C. ($70.00 - #331991) ... Germany

Gabriel Meffre Laurus Gigondas 2010 ($30.00 - #163113) ... Rhone, France

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …

Domaine La Garrigue 2010 La Cantarelle Vacqueryas ($31.00 - #340760) ... Rhone, France

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

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

Saturday June 22, 2013 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

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

The Foci … Canada Day (CD), Southern Rhone (SR), South Africa (SAF)

The Skinny … For a multi-focus release like this one it’s funny that the wines that offer the best value are from Spain and Portugal.

Argentina …

Famiglia Bianchi 2012 Chardonnay ($14.95 - #001461) … nice creamed vanilla and toffee apple. (*** ½+)

Finca El Origen 2010 Gran Reserva Malbec ($21.95 - #065425) … chocolate, mocha and toasty with plum and black cherry fruit. (****)

Australia …

3 Rings 2008 Shiraz ($19.95 - #015495) … it’s all raspberry and cherry, succulent and juicy on both the palate and the nose.  (*** ½+)

The Hedonist 2009 Shiraz ($23.95 - #090191) … big fruit with chocolaty and chalky notes with smoky vanilla and deep rich red berries. (****)

Wakefield 2012 Merlot ($17.95 - #683201) … soft, supple blackberry and blueberry with hits of mocha – drink or hold for up to 5 years. (*** ½+)

Canada (British Columbia) …

Calliope 2010 Figure Eight Red ($22.95 - #324582) … mocha, white pepper and blueberry; interesting and tasty bevvy. (*** ½) - CD

Canada (Nova Scotia) …

Benjamin Bridge 2012 Nova 7 ($25.95 - #256289) … a nice bit of spritz here with some orange and floral notes – a fun little drink. (*** ½) – CD

Canada (Ontario) … click wine name for full review

Featherstone 2012 Sauvignon Blanc ($19.95 - #089011) - *** ½+

Reif 2011 Vidal Icewine ($24.95 / 200ml - #544791) - **** ½ (CD)

Rockway Vineyards 2010 Small Lot Reserve Cabernet Franc ($23.95 - #346239) - ****+

Rockway Vineyards 2010 Small Lot Reserve Syrah ($21.95 - #346221) - *** ½+

Rockway Vineyards 2011 Small Lot Reserve Chardonnay ($18.95 - #346155) - *** ½+

Rosewood 2011 Semillon ($17.95 – 177758) - *** ½+

Sue-Ann Staff 2011 Sparkling & Sassy Sparkling Riesling ($27.95 - #344622) - *** ½+

Tollgate 2010 Merlot ($24.95 - #344101) - *** ½ (CD)

Vineland 2011 Pinot Meunier ($17.95 - #225508) - *** ½+

Chile …

Concha y Toro 2009 Marques de Casa Concha Syrah ($19.95 - #019042) … smoky, cassis and vanilla tones; also look for anise and violets; pretty wine, good price. (****)

France (Alsace) …

Domaines Schlumberger Kessler 2008 Pinot Gris ($25.95 - #249623) … a little sweetness and good minerality withpretty floral tones and good finish. (****+)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau La Commanderie 2009 ($29.95 - #035774) … oak, spice with intense dark fruit. (*** ½+)

Chateau Saint Christoly 2009 ($19.95 - #321265) … mocha and meaty with black currant and vanilla. (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Mallory & Benjamin Talmard 2011 Macon-Uchizy ($14.95 - #733956) … nice apple, lemon combo, supple, sexy and smooth with hints of mineral, good finish; a great value Chardonnay. (****+)

France (Loire) …

Bougrier Touraine 2011 Sauvignon Blanc ($16.95 - #322644) … nice Sauv Blanc character with grassy and grapefruit pith; not hit you in the face, well-balanced. (*** ½+)

Domaine Seguin 2011Pouilly Fume ($23.95 - #081414) … grapefruit zest and pith with hints of lanolin. (*** ½)

France (Midi) …

Domaine la Borie Blanche Terroirs D’Altitude 2008 ($18.95 - #328542) … smoky dark chocolate and vanilla with some dusty and herbal notes. (*** ½+)

France (Provence) …

Caves D’Esclans 2012 Whispering Angel Rosé ($19.95 - #325076) … seriously good rosé, dry and fruity without going over the top – this one shows some real elegance. (****)

France (Rhone) …

Chateau la Nerthe 2010 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($43.95 - #735407) … blueberry, raspberry with some minerality. (****) – SR

Chateau Mont Redon 2009 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($39.95 - #959627) … nice roasted fruit with big floral and woody component. (*** ½) – SR

Chateau Signac 2009 Cuvee Terra Amata ($22.95 - #140079) … chocolate and red licorice abound, there’s also some white pepper that appears on the finish, nice juicy mouthfeel. (****) – SR

Domaine de la Charbonniere 2010 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($39.95 - #062711) … big, rich fruit driven red with smoky undertones. (****+) – SR

Famille Perrin 2012 Tavel Rosé  ($19.95 - #680801) … lots of berries in the bottle that ends very dry. (*** ½+)

La Ferme du Mont 2011 Le Ponnant Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($17.00 - #171371) … lots of rich red fruit along with cassis, red licorice and blueberry. (*** ½+) – SR

Le Gravilla 2011 Sablet Cotes du Rhone-Villages ($15.95 - #078790) … juicy style of wine that’s nicely balanced and easy drinking. (***½+) – SR

Ortas L’Estellan Gigondas 2011 ($19.95 - #328435) … smoked cedar, vanilla and blackberry. (*** ½+) - SR

Italy (Alto Adige) …

Tramin 2011 Pinot Grigio ($16.95 - #627059) … fresh and crisp with more white fruit than citrus, say a 70-30 mix. (*** ½+)

Italy (Campania) …

Neromora 2009 ($18.95 - #320739) … sweet black fruit with tobacco and plum along with hints of chocolate-cherry; rich, juicy and succulent. (****)

Italy (Tuscany) …

Castello di Meleto 2009 Chianti Classico ($20.95 - #332114) … a fruit driven Chianti with smoke and sour cherry notes. (*** ½)

Poggio Il Castellare 2010 Rosso di Montalcino ($20.95 - #330662) … big red and black cherry with firm tannins but with a lively juiciness to it. (****)

New Zealand …

Pegasus Bay 2009 Pinot Noir ($48.95 - #031294) … rich black fruit with coffee and red cherry but also shows a nice seam of earthiness. (****)

Stoneleigh 2011 Latitude Pinot Noir ($24.95 - #325654) … nice mix of earth, cranberry and raspberry with seasoning spice. (*** ½+)

Stoneleigh 2012 Latitude Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #324228) … round and clean, well-balanced and flavourful. (****)

Portugal …

Calem 2006 Late Bottled Vintage Port ($19.95 - #912550) … smooth yet spicy with chocolate, raspberry and cherry with a good acid balance. (****+)

Quinta do Roncao 2011 Reserva ($14.95 - #147942) … supple red and black fruit with the most noticeable being plum and raspberry. (****)

South Africa …

Avondale 2010 Cyclus ($29.95 - #295220) … has nice structure, some real intensity and good mouthfeel. (*** ½) - SAF

Spain …

Burgans 2011 Albarino ($18.95 - #945063) … a little baked fruit mixed with mac apple and lemon pith. (*** ½)

Marques de Murrieta 2006 Finca Ygay Reserva ($24.95 - #209148) … dusty with a sweet fruit middle and nice berry finish. (*** ½+)

Torres Floralis Moscatel Oro ($16.95 - #642173) … the depth of caramelized spiced orange peel is incredible; it’s the cat’s ass of yumminess. (**** ½)

Vina Eguia 2007 Reserva ($17.95 - #325845) … lots of black fruit mixed with vanilla; comes across sweet but it ends nice and dry – nicely aged. (****+)

United States (California) …

Bonterra 2010 Zinfandel ($19.95 - #530139) … seems they’re getting their act together with Zin as it has what I like in one. (*** ½+)

Decoy 2011 Pinot Noir ($29.95 - #191833) … juicy raspberry, some strawberry, good acidity with a long, lingering finish. (****)

Kunde 2008 Zinfandel ($21.95 - #965921) … a BBQ ready Zin; smooth and sexy with cola, vanilla, red raspberry, nice acidity and sweetness of fruit. (****)

McManis Family Vineyards 2011 Zinfandel ($17.00 - #256735) … a simple, easy to drink Zin for those not up-to-date with the grape. (*** ½)

Napa Cellars 2011 Chardonnay ($23.95 - #225342) … buttery, rich oak, the fruit is so-so but if you like and think Cali-Chard this is what you’re looking for. (*** ½+)

Rock Wall 2011 Obsidian ($24.95 - #287144) … very nice and flavourful with licorice, cola and raspberry there’s also a nice bit of tannins that bite back. (****)

Vina Robles 2009 Red 4 ($19.95 - #261628) … sweet, juicy fruit with some elegance and nice dark fruit at its base. (****)

United States (Washington) …

Columbia Crest 2010 Grand Estates Chardonnay ($16.95 - #366542) … pretty peach pit, floral with a touch of apple, nice acidic balance and delicious flavour, pleasant linger. (****)

If You Can Afford It – wines worthy of their high price …

Caymus 2010 Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon ($139.95) - ****

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – June 22, 2013 …

Caves D’Esclans 2012 Whispering Angel Rosé ($19.95 - #325076) … Provence

Columbia Crest 2010 Grand Estates Chardonnay ($16.95 - #366542) … Washington

Mallory & Benjamin Talmard 2011 Macon-Uchizy ($14.95 - #733956) … Burgundy

Quinta do Roncao 2011 Reserva ($14.95 - #147942) … Portugal

Torres Floralis Moscatel Oro ($16.95 - #642173) …Spain

Vina Eguia 2007 Reserva ($17.95 - #325845) … Spain

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

In-Store Discoveries Appearing on Shelves June 22, 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.

6 wines are being released, here are the reviews for 5 of them.

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** ½) …
Domaines Ott Chateau de Selle Coeur de Grain Rose 2012 ($46.95 - #074617) ... Provence, France

Three-and-a-Half-Plus Star Wines (*** ½+) …
Giacosa Basarin 2006 Vigna Gianmate Barbaresco ($39.95 - #291401) ... Piedmont, Italy

Four Star Wines (****) …
Spy Valley 2011 Pinot Gris ($19.95 - #277723) ... New Zealand
Dancing Hares Mad Hatter ($82.95 - #333880) ... California, USA

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Bishop’s Peak 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($25.95 - #327254) ... California, USA

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

Vintages Shop Online June 13, 2013 Release

Here are scores for 4 of the 6 wines released on the 13th of May thru Vintages Shop-On-Line ... no notes are given, just the star rating.

Four-Plus Star Wines (****) …

Rosewood 2012 Mead Noir ($25.00 - #346213) ... Ontario, Canada

Adelaida Cellars 2007 Viking Estate Vineyard Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($N/A - #327593) ... California, USA

Canneto 2007 Vino Nobile di Montalpulciano Riserva ($N/A - #065854) ... Tuscany, Italy

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …

Gott 9 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($N/A - #327627) ... California, USA

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

Saturday June 8, 2013 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

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

The Foci:  Father’s Day (FD) and Argentina (ARG)

The Skinny:  Sadly not a fantastic release for dad, and I never understand what constitutes a “father’s day” wine selection. 

Argentina …

Alamos 2010 Seleccion Malbec ($16.95 - #322800) – serious Malbec with a touch of elegance: dark fruit/berries with hints of violet and smoke. (****) – ARG

Algodon 2010 Private Collection Estate Bonarda ($19.95 - #327932) – soft, juicy and easy drinking: lots of cherry with hints of spice. (*** ½) – ARG

Altamira de Los Andes Navigato Family Selection Grand Reserve 2008 ($46.95 - #314872) – impressive dark fruit and chocolate with a spiced-peppered finish. (*** ½+) – ARG

Graffigna 2010 Grand Reserve Malbec ($17.95 - #162149) – blackberry and violets with just the right touch of spice to keep it interesting. (*** ½+) – ARG

Urraca 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #271080) – spicy chocolate, plum, black cherry all layered between fruit and spice. (****+) - ARG

Canada (Ontario) … click wine for full review

Chateau des Charmes 2012 Cuvee D’Andree Rosé ($14.95 - #333260) - ****+

Coyote’s Run 2011 Red Paw Vineyard Chardonnay ($19.95 - #336115) - _____

Fielding 2010 Gewurztraminer ($15.95 - #146753) - *** ½+

Flat Rock Cellars 2012 Riesling ($16.95 - #043281) - ____

Inniskillin 2012 Pinot Noir Rosé ($14.95 - #336461) - *** 1/2_+

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

Chile …

Concha y Toro 2012 Trio Reserva Sauvignon Blanc ($14.95 - #678656) – refreshingly grassy and citrus pith driven. (*** ½+)

Santa Carolina 2011 Barrica Selection Petit Verdot ($14.95 - #007484) – silky smooth with plum and pepper. (*** ½+)

France (Alsace)…

Louis Hauller 2011 Gewurztraminer ($19.95 - #141754) – off-dry style with oily, rosy and apricot notes, look for the spicy replaying finish. (****)

France (Beaujolais) …

Chateau de la Pierre 2011 Brouilly ($17.95 - #320879) – pleasantly dark cherry with spice and acidity all fighting it out on your tongue. (*** ½+)

France (Bordeaux) …

Chateau Coucy 2009 ($21.95 - #321406) – mocha, blackberry, cassis and chocolate with nice spice and hearty tannins; all for the mid-term haul. (****)

Chateau La Clare 2009 ($29.95 - #331751) – smoky, spicy with a really dark core. (*** ½+)

France (Burgundy) …

Domaine Bouchard Pere & Fils 2010 Les Clous Meursault ($44.95 - #661322) – nicely robust and minerally with white peach, apple and a hint of creamed butter and grapefruit. (****)

Roland Lavantureux 2010 Chablis ($19.95) – light mineral with apple and white fruit; delicate with hints of light lime. (*** ½+)

France (Loire) …

Chateau la Gravelle 2006 Muscadet Sevre & Maine Gorges ($15.95 - #656736) – light, crisp and flinty with a citrus wind finish. (*** 1/2+)

Donatien Bahuaud 2012 Les Grands Mortiers Vouvray ($15.95 - #140889) – nice bit of sweetness; a perfect patio sipper. (***1/2)

France (Midi) …

Les Vignes Bila-Haut du Roussillon-Villages 2011 ($14.95 - #168716) – lush and luscious with good dark fruit, good tannin structure along with enough spice and acidity; there’s also some chocolate on the front and mid-palate.  Good value. (****+)

France (Provence) …

Gassier Sables D’Azur Rosé 2012 ($13.95 - #033621) – entry is raspberry and strawberry;dry and summer food ready. (****)

France (Rhone) …

Gigonda 2012 La Cave Signature Rosé ($19.95 - #323493) – electric pink in colour with a ripe red berry notes and a dry finish; this screams salad or fish. (****)

Les Halos de Jupiter Cotes du Rhone 2010 ($17.95 - #276956) – lovely mocha, blackberries and cassis along with black cherry; nice juiciness. (****+)

Greece …

Estate Papaioannou 2007 Single Vineyard Agiorgitiko ($19.95 - #047977) – easy drinking, light style, already has six years on it and it’s ready to drink now. (*** ½+)

Italy (Piedmont) …

Paitin Sori’ Paitin Barbaresco 2008 ($32.95 - #106591) – nice fruit with cinnamon and dried strawberries, good spiced finish. (*** ½+)

Italy (Umbria) …

Villa Mora 2006 Montefalco Rosso ($15.95 - #331785) – lovely dried, smoked fruit and occasionally it shows some fresh fruit: cinnamon, baking spice and mocha also appear. (****)

Italy (Veneto) …

Due Torri 2009 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($38.95 - #724740) – spiced plum and lots of dark berries. (****)

Lena di Mezzo 2009 Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore ($17.95 - #165662) – lots of plum, strawberry fruit and white pepper. (****)

Masi 2009 Brolo Campofiorin Oro Appaxximento ($24.95 - #976092) - mocha, spice and ballsy black fruit. (****)

New Zealand …

Astrolabe 2012 Province Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #010421) – typically New Zealand with lots of white grapefruit and hints of sweet gooseberry; good intensity. (****)

Gibbston 2011 Highgate Estate Soultaker Pinot Noir ($28.95 - #055814) – black cherry, earthy and smoky with spicy finish and good acidity. (****)

Sileni 2010 The Triangle Merlot ($16.95 - #585081) – nice structure with some good complexity, not your juicy American style but one that’s quite enjoyable with meats. (****)

Waipara 2011 West Sauvignon Blanc ($19.95 - #309518) – soft and tropical with the intensity we’ve come to expect from New Zealand Sauv Blanc. (****)

Portugal …

Quinta de Santa Eufemia 2005 Late Bottled Vintage Port ($18.95 - #332346) – very pleasant; full of spiced red fruit along with supple and sexy plum and cherry with a chocolate backing. (*** ½+)

Spain …

Herencia Altes Garnatxa Negra ($25.95 - #332353) – very dark fruit driven. (*** ½+)

United States (California) …

Decoy 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #186171) – one word best describes this wine: juicy; quite enjoyable. (****)

Deloach 2010 Zinfandel ($29.95 - #980573) – plum and vanilla with a sweet cherry syrup and chocolate note, you’ll also find sweet fruit and cola notes with a butterscotch finale; make sure you have plenty of sauce soaked ribs on hand. (****) – FD

Gallo Family 2010 Frei Ranch Vineyard Zinfandel ($19.95 - #555599) – juicy and generous fruit with vanilla, plum, cola and cherry; it’s a monster at 16%, but quite delicious. (****)

Girard 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($34.95 - #231712) – chocolate, dark berries and spice; there’s a complexity here that’s quite appealing. (****)

Ironstone 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95 - #537597) – pleasant and easy sipping Cali-Cab. (*** ½)

Macrostie 2010 Chardonnay ($30.95 - #244467) – good fruit with touches of vanilla. (*** ½+)

United States (Oregon) …

Blue Pirate 2009 Pinot Noir ($21.95- #333294) – lots of earthy character with juicy raspberry and strawberry backing it up. (****)

Cooper Mountain 2011 Reserve Pinot Gris ($20.95 - #324491) – crisp mac apple with lemonade and a pear finish. (*** ½+)

If You Can Afford It – (wine worth their high price tag) …

Lail Vineyards 2010 Blueprint Cabernet Sauvignon ($69.95 - #060251) - ****

Ridge Estate 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($52.95 - #089284) - ****+ (FD)

What I’ll Be Lining Up For – June 8, 2013 …

Les Halos de Jupiter Cotes du Rhone 2010 ($17.95 - #276956) – France

Les Vignes Bila-Haut du Roussillon-Villages 2011 ($14.95 - #168716) – France

Urraca 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #271080) – Argentina

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 June 8, 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.

7 wines are being released, here are scores for 3 of them.

Four Star Wines (****) …
Biohof Pratsch Steinberg 2010 Gruner Veltliner ($35.95 - #318386) ... Austria
Planeta 2008 Sito Dell’Ulmo Merlot ($39.95 - #978460) ... Sicily, Italy

Four-Plus Star Wines (****+) …
Chateau de la Font du Loup 2010 Chateauneuf-du-Pape ($33.95 - #227033) ... Rhone, France

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

Vintages Shop Online June 28, 2012 Release

Scores for 7 of 7 wines tried, first time all wines have been good enough to review... no notes are given, just the star rating; although the top rated wine will have a note:

Three-and-a-Half Star Wines (*** 1/2) ...
Chateau Clerc Milon 2008 ($64.00 - #185165) ... Bordeaux, France
Les Pagodes de Cos 2008 ($65.00 - #136499) ... Bordeaux, France

Three-and-a-Half-Plus Star Wines (*** 1/2 +) ...
Highland Estates 2006 Napa Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon ($80.00 - #275917) ... California, USA

Four Star Wines (****) ...
Chateau Rieussec 2008 ($54.00 / 375ml - #134304) ... Bordeaux - Sauternes, France
Alter Ego 2008 ($69.00 - #133496) ... Bordeaux, France

Four-Plus Star Wines (**** +) ...
Chateau la Confession 2008 ($54.00 - #136440) ... Bordeaux, France

Four-and-a-Half Star Wines (**** 1/2) ...
Greywacke 2010 Pinot Gris ($28.00 - #282780) ... loving the Gris' coming out of New Zealand, this one is unbelievably balanced even with it being barrel influenced it has big succulent fruit.  Juicy and luscious with a lovely tart finish.  This is New Zealand's next great grape.

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

Saturday June 23, 2012 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

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

The focus is two-fold this time out: Summer Sippers (SUMSIP) and Canada Day (CAN) … let’s take a look:

Argentina ...

Alta Vista 2009 Premium Cabernet Sauvignon ($14.95 - #129957) - mocha, blackberry, cassis and sweet cedar. (*** 1/2)

Australia ...

Chateau Tanunda 2009 Barossa Tower Shiraz / Primitivo ($18.95 - #281048) - odd combination for Oz but it works in a sweet, smoky, peppery kinda way. (*** 1/2+)

Hope 2008 The Ripper Shiraz ($21.95 - #686865) - juicy and thoroughly enjoyable. (*** 1/2)

Mountadam Vineyards 2008 Cabernet / Merlot ($16.95 - #641860) - juicy red fruit, chocolate, plum, vanilla all lead to an easy finish. (*** 1/2)

Penfolds 2008 Bin 389 Cabernet / Shiraz ($39.95 - #309625) - Oz's typical blend from a very good producer. (****)

Tatiarra 2009 Culled Barrel Shiraz ($39.95 - #271379) - white and black pepper mix with chocolate, blackberry and spiced plum. (****)

Zonte's 2008 Footstep Baron von Nemesis Shiraz ($17.95 - #212936) - raspberry and sweet cherry, tons of red berries with the right amount of white pepper;  sweet fruited and fun. (*** 1/2+)

Canada ...

(Ontario)

Featherstone 2011 Gewurztraminer ($19.95 - #64592) - **** (CAN)

Magnotta 2008 Limited Edition Sparkling Ice Vidal Icewine ($69.95 - #50195) - *** 1/2+ (CAN)

Ravine Vineyard 2010 Meritage ($24.95 - #285627) - **** 1/2 (CAN)

Stratus 2008 Wildass Red ($19.95 - #86363) - **** 1/2 (CAN)

Chile ...

Concha y Toro 2010 Marques de Casa Concha Carmenere ($17.00 - #169862) - black and blue berries, nice spice and a hint of bramblyness with a toasted character. (*** 1/2+)

Santa Ema 2009 Reserve Merlot ($16.95 - #642538) - juicy fruit and very chocolatey. (****)

Valle Andino 2008 Reserva Especial Syrah ($13.95 - #272682) - coffee, smoky, new leather, not your typical Syrah but definitely one not to be ignored; more of an after-dinner sipper. (*** 1/2)

France ...

(Alsace)

Bestheim Brut Cremant D'Alsace ($17.95 - #141184) - apple blossom, limeade; pleasant and appealing. (*** 1/2) - SUMSIP

(Beaujolais)

Domaine de Champ de Cour Mouline-a-Vent ($17.95 - #430876) - nice black cherry note throughout, enjoy chilled. (*** 1/2+)

(Bordeaux).

Chateau Haut Bertinerie 2009 ($23.95 - #422220) - lovely pineapple and grassy notes that are very appealing, far from typical but quite tasty. (*** 1/2)

(Loire)

Maison Foucher 2010 La Vigne Aux Sandres Pouilly Fume ($20.95 - #277350) - hay and fresh cut grass with white grapefruit backing. (*** 1/2) - SUMSIP

(Midi)

Chateau de Lancyre Cote D'alyrac 2010 ($19.95 - #74765) - sweetness of fruit and spice with some chocolate appeal. (*** 1/2+)

Chateau La Grave 2009 Expression ($13.95 - #277053) - easy drinking expression of  delicious wine. (*** 1/2)

(Rhone)

Chateau de Nages 2009 JT Costieres de Nimes ($21.95 - #736876) black fruit and spice reign supreme here. (*** 1/2)

Domaine de Carteresses 2011 Tavel Rose ($15.95 - #739474) - a food friendly rose with white pepper ad red currants, nice complexity.

Le Gravillas 2010 Sablet ($14.95 - #78790) - red berries, cedar, spice, plum and cocoa powder. (*** 1/2)

Germany ...

Darting 2009 Riesling Kabinett ($15.95 - #950212) - this house continues to deliver value for money: slight sweetness is balanced by peach, mineral and floral notes. (*** 1/2+)

Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt 2008 Ockfener Bockstein Riesling Kabinett ($16.95 - #606202) - a kabinett that drinks like a spatlese: spiced apple, floral and sweet. (*** 1/2) - SUMSIP

Italy ...

(Abruzzo)

Niro 2009 Montepulciano D' Abruzzo ($15.95 - #278150) - black cherry, coffee, vanilla, juicy of fruit, rich on the palate yet dry and tannic on the finish. (****)

(Campania)

Terredora 2010 Loggia Della Serra Greco di Tufo ($17.95 - #983197) - honeysuckle, lemon peel and pith with a refreshingly bitter finish. (*** 1/2)

(Emilia-Romagnia)

Umberto Cesari 2008 Sangiovese di Romanga Riserva ($18.95 - #33399) - smoke, cocoa, red cherry, leather and spice with a firm grip and great length on the finish. (****+)

(Piedmont)

Michele Chiarlo 2010 Nivole Moscato D'Asti ($16.95 - #942888) - one day I'd love a good Moscato to come in at ten-bucks, but until that day we'll have to pay over inflated prices for this delectable summer sipper. (*** 1/2+) - SUMSIP

(Tuscany)

Fontalpino 2009 Chianti Classico ($22.95 - #275859) - bitter opening, sweet middle, edgy finish. (*** 1/2)

Lamole di Lamole Vignetto di Campolungo Chianti Classico Riserva 2007 ($36.95 - #231241) - juicy cherry, sour cranberry with a hint of cedar-spice. (*** 1/2+)

Le Sughere di Frassinello 2009 ($29.95 - #25700) - juicy, supply and racy number with big 14.5% alcohol and nice tannin grip. (****)

(Veneto)

Le Ragose 2007 Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore ($18.95 - #991984) - bowl of fruit covered in cocoa, nice strawberry an cherry notes. (*** 1/2)

Monte Zovo 2009 Sa'Solin (17.95 - #650713) - I have vacillated on this wine over the years, but I'm a fan again, must be the vintage, ready for consumption now and has enough heft to last a five more years or more. (*** 1/2+)

New Zealand ...

Astrolabe 2011 Province Sauvignon Blanc ($21.95 - #10421) - juicy version of Sauvignon Blanc with grapefruit from pulp to peel and a long lingering finish. (****) - SUMSIP

Blind River 2011 Sauvignon Blanc ($19.95 - #141499) - delicately grassy with the right amount of citrus that adds to this mouth party. (*** 1/2+)

Greystone 2009 Pinot Noir ($37.95 - 3271312) - earthy, black pepper and blackberry that's lightly spiced and holds tons of flavour in the glass. (*** 1/2+)

Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvee Rose ($21.95 - #280172) - great colour, with raspberry, lemon and limeade, with a touch of sweetness on the mid-palate, this is a very pleasurable bubble. (****+) - SUMSIP

Seifried 2011 Riesling ($17.95 - #989541) - nice apple fruitiness with a stone infusion; crisp and lovely with pear and stone fruit on the finish, very well integrated with its sweetness. (****) - SUMSIP

Trinity Hill 2009 The Gimblett ($35.95 - #280263) - good depth of character with sour coffee, mocha and dark fruit. (*** 1/2+)

Portugal ...

Casa do Valle Grande Escolha ($14.95 - #276220) - peach and prickly pear clash for supremacy in the mouth. (*** 1/2) - SUMSIP

South Africa ...

Ernie Els 2010 Big Easy ($19.95 - #220038) - coffee, leather and smoky on the nose; palate is delicious with cinnamon, vanilla, and other spices; shows finesse for something that suppose to be "Easy". (****)

Vrede en Lust 2011 White Mischief ($16.95 - #280156) - not just mischief in name alone, this wine plays games with you palate as you tried to figure out what it is; my advice: just drink and enjoy. (*** 1/2+) - SUMSIP

Spain ...

Nessa 2010 Albarino ($15.95 - #282558) - delicious apple with perfumed notes of apple blossom and sweet melon. (*** 1/2) - SUMSIP

Ramon Bilbao 2005 Reserva ($17.00 - #281097) - nicely balanced, it's 7 years old so it's ready now or hold another 5+ years. (*** 1/2+)

Torres 2008 Gran Sangre de Toro Reserva ($15.95 - #315648) - juicy cherry fruit with just a hint of white pepper and spice; spiced plum settles on the finish. (*** 1/2+)

Tossals 2006 Junior ($18.95 - #278135) - rich mocha, blackberry, blueberry and cherry, hints of violet on the palate which keeps things nice and pretty; there's some red licorice that is quite enticing on the finish. (**** 1/2))

Switzerland ...

Domaine des Chouans 2010 ($15.95 - #278945) - refreshing and nicely expressed version of Chasselas, not too dry and not too sweet, it's a Goldilocks wine. (*** 1/2)

United States ...

(California)

Francis Coppola 2011 Sofia Rose ($19.95 - #284943) - pretty enough in the bottle, sweet entry with a dry finish and medium length linger. (*** 1/2)

Kendall-Jackson 2009 Grand Reserve Chardonnay ($27.95  #59576) - full flavoured Chard with lots of barrel notes and a decent amount of fruit, look for baking spice on the finish. (****)

Rutherford Ranch 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95 - #73817) - good Cali-Cab, just what you'd expect. (*** 1/2)

Sonoma-Cutrer 2008 Grower-Vintner Pinot Noir ($29.95 - #140723) - juicy and flavourful, lovely cherry fruit, light and easy, a real friendly sipper makes it a hellava Pinot. (****+)

Stags' Leap Winery 2011 Viognier ($34.95 - #597369) - sweet pineapple, vanilla and sweet apple, this is a very sexy wine. (****) - SUMSIP

(Oregon)

Maysara Estate 2008 Cuvee Pinot Noir ($39.95 - #65680) - didn't intrigue at first but subsequent sips proved to show cocoa, floral, cedar spice and a linger that makes you wanna sip again. (*** 1/2+)

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

Laird 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($57.95 - #50096) - California ... ****

Outpost 2009 Zinfandel ($69.00 - #253377) - California ... ****

What I'll Be Lining Up For ...

Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvee Rose ($21.95 - #280172) - New Zealand

Tossals 2006 Junior ($18.95 - #278135) - Spain

Umberto Cesari 2008 Sangiovese di Romagna Riserva ($18.95 - #33399) - Italy

Happy Shopping

To print this article click here for the PDF version.

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

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

Saturday June 9, 2012 - Vintages Release Report

To print this report click here for the PDF version.

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

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

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

This release is all about Father's Day (FD), Chile (CH) and Southern France (SF) ... Fathers seem to like a lot of boozy stuff (read: whiskey) and expensive wines ... the rest of this release is pretty self explanatory.  Also look for the Best Buys (wines that deliver real value for their price - BB).

Argentina ...

Altos Las Hormigas 2008 Reserva Malbec ($27.95 - #678987) - very dark brambly fruit with spice, lots of plum. (****)

Durigutti 2008 Bonarda ($17.95 - #275164) - super juicy with red raspberry, loads of easy drinking flavour. (*** 1/2+)

Kaiken 2011 Malbec Rose ($14.95 - #169375) - nice red raspberry, cherry flavour with decent acidity on a finish with bite and spice. (*** 1/2)

Zuccardi 2008 Q Tempranillo ($19.95 - #973503) - shows some real chocolatey layers. (*** 1/2+)

Australia ...

D'Arenberg 2010 The Hermit Crab Viognier/Marsanne ($17.95 - #662775) - a very appealing pineapple note. (*** 1/2+)

Mitchell McNicol Shiraz 2003 ($45.95 - #278572) - real red fruit, juicy with a touch of red licorice and cocoa. (****)

The Lackey 2009 Shiraz ($17.95 - #005199) - good value, thoroughly enjoyable Shiraz. (*** 1/2+)

Canada ...

(British Columbia)

Sandhill 2010 Small Lots Viognier ($24.95 - #126862) - floral, apricot and pineapple; juicy and lovely. (*** 1/2+)

(Ontario) - click on wine for full review

Coyote's Run 2010 Black Paw Vineyard Chardonnay ($21.95 - #049775)

Henry of Pelham 2011 Pinot Blanc ($14.95 - #618827) - *** 1/2+

Hinterbrook 2011 Rose ($16.00 - #275818) - *** 1/2+

Inniskillin 2010 Winemaker's Series Barrel Aged Pinot Gris ($19.95 - #177766) - *** 1/2+

Lakeview 2007 Reserve Syrah ($19.95 - #264150) - ****

Malivoire 2010 Guilty Men Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot ($19.95 - #186247) - *** 1/2+

Chile ...

Altair 2007 Sideral ($26.95 - #660837) - very minty, cinnamon role, juicy and jammy; just plain yummy. (****) - CH

Anakena 2010 Single Vineyard Pinot Noir ($15.95 - #208439) - black cherry, boysenberry, clove, mocha and quite juicy with a coffee-raspberry finish. (*** 1/2+) - CH

Caliterra 2011 Tributo Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc ($14.95 - #283648) - nose is typical but with a softer palate of grapefruit which gives way to tropical notes, a real palate pleaser. (*** 1/2+) - CH

Casas Patronales 2009 Reserva Privada Cabernet Sauvignon ($16.95 - #274134) - brambly black fruit and elegant spice, a steal at this price. (****) - CH

Concha y Toro 2009 Marques de Casa Concha Merlot ($19.95 - #939827) - more mocha-esque than fruit, but still juicy and enjoyable. (*** 1/2+) - CH

Concha y Toro 2009 Terrunyo Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95 - #562918) - a real winner with concentration of fruit, sweet raspberry, cherry, sandlewood and smoke; nice super-juicy finish. (****+) - CH

Concha y Toro 2011 Trio Reserva Sauvignon Blanc ($13.95 - #678656) - soft yet juicy, think Sauvignon Blanc on downers but still lots of fun. (*** 1/2) - CH

Cono Sur 2008 Limited Edition 20 Barrels Chardonnay ($24.95 - #127498) - finesse and fruit with good acidity and nice texture. (*** 1/2+) - CH

Emiliana 2010 Signos de Origen La Vinilla Chardonnay/Viognier/Marsanne/Rousanne ($19.95 - #063909) - shows some interesting creaminess with honeysuckle and nice spice and a full mouth feel. (*** 1/2) - CH

Maycas de Limari 2008 Reserva Especial Syrah ($19.95 - #269423) - incredible elegance, juicy, tasty, lots of lovely fruit and good acidity. (****+) - CH

Maycas de Limari 2010 Reserva Especial Chardonnay ($19.95 - #162040) - pretty Chardonnay with a nice balance of fruit and wood character: vanilla oomph with spices, baked apple and peach. (****) - CH

Oveja Negra 2008 The Lost Barrel ($24.95 - #273979) - an interesting blend that proves very herbal in the mouth. (*** 1/2+) - CH

Perez Cruz 2010 Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($14.95 - #694208) - minty, jammy and juicy; very Chilean in style. (*** 1/2+) - CH

Potro de Piedra Family 2008 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc ($24.95 - #273995) - smoky black fruit at the beginning, continues on the palate with a nice sweet tobacco finish. (****) -  CH

France ...

(Alsace)

Jean Geiler 2010 Reserve Particuliere Gewurztraminer ($17.95 - #106864) - delicious, just like Alsace makes them with floral, lychee and hints of sweetness on a medium finish. (****)

(Bordeaux)

Chateau le Conseiller 2008 ($25.00 - #135731) - smoky red berries along with currants and all spice. (*** 1/2)

(Burgundy)

Domaine de Fussiacus 2009 Vieilles Vignes Pouilly-Fuisse ($23.95 - #276444) - quite the oak bound number, creamy-vanilla, and nice fruit cream, lovely finish. (****)

(Midi)

Domaine Piquemal Tradition 2009 ($15.95 - #272419) - sweet fruit, sweet spice. (*** 1/2+) - SF

Foncalieu 2009 Reserve du Sud Languedoc ($15.95 - #272443) - slight tang where smoke and blackberry dominate. (*** 1/2) - SF

Gerard Bertrand 2009 Grand Terroir Grenache/Syrah ($18.95 - #147983) - a dichotomy of herbal, floral, spicy and fruity; very interesting. (*** 1/2)

Hegarty Chamans No. 2 Grenache/Mourvedre Cinsault 2009 ($21.95 - #277061) - smoky and sweet spiced, dried cherry sweetness on the finish. (****) - SF

Les Piliers 2010 Viognier ($15.95 - #669531) - definitely refreshing, nice grapefruit pith linger on the finish. (*** 1/2)

Mont Tauch 2009 Le Tauch Fitou ($19.95 - #272484) - juicy raspberry, blueberry, white pepper and spice. (****) - SF

(Rhone)

Chateau du Trignon Gigondas 2006 ($29.95 - #681817) - supple and smooth, easy drinking, black fruited and plumy. (*** 1/2+)

Domaine des Fees Cotes du Rhone ($14.95 - #272450) - juicy, jammy, red and black fruit with herbal undertones. (*** 1/2+)

Famille Perrin 2011 Tavel Rose ($19.95 - #680801) - deep pink colour, deep pink taste with strawberry as the dominant fruit. (*** 1/2+)

Romain Duvernay Vacqueyras 2009 ($24.95 - #280966) - sweet red fruit with chocolate, blackberry and licorice; nice concentration of everything. (****)

Germany ...

Lingenfelder 2010 Bird Label Riesling ($13.95 - #568634) - always good value in a very summery beverage. (*** 1/2+) - BB

Italy ...

(Piedmont)

Enrico Serafino 2011 Moscato D'Asti ($15.95 - #134833) - typical Moscato but still very yummy. (*** 1/2+)

Pio Cesare 2010 Barbera D'Alba ($19.95 - #938886) - black raspberry, blackberry, black cherry and smoke. (*** 1/2+)

(Puglia)

Masserie Pisari Primitivo 2010 ($14.95 - #270306) - plumy, cherry cola, sweet fruit, this is a Zin-lovers Primitivo (*** 1/2) - BB

(Trentino)

Bollini 2011 Pinot Grigio ($16.95 - #951319) - sweet lemonade with a good finish. (*** 1/2)

(Tuscany)

Giacomo Mori Castelrotto Chianti Riserva 2008 ($25.95 - #180026) - rustic black cherry, blackberry, spice and tannins. (*** 1/2+)

(Veneto)

Valpantena 2009 Torre del Falasco Ripasso Valpolicella ($16.95 - #642421) - good plum, cocoa and dried cherry with spice. (*** 1/2+)

New Zealand ...

Hunter's Jane Hunter Sauvignon Blanc 2011 ($19.95 - #280271) - grapefruit on the nose but the palate is something a little more interesting: grapefruit cocktail, lime pith, guava nectar and nectarine, all balanced with good acidity on the finish. (****)

Portugal ...

Cabriz 2011 Rose ($11.95 - #030445) - candied red berries. (*** 1/2)

Fonseca Bin No. 27 Reserve Port ($15.95 - #156877) - spicy plum and cherry, rich and succulent finish. (****)

Spain ...

Codorniu Pinot Noir Brut Rose Cava ($17.95 - #665372) - very berry, very tasty. (*** 1/2+)

Fernandez de Pierola Reserva 2004 ($25.95 - #270579) - sweet, supple with both dried and fresh fruit along with mocha and spice with grippy tannins. (*** 1/2+)

United States ...

Easton 2004 Estate Bottle Zinfandel ($39.95 - #281501) - absolutely Zinfandel from nose to taste from the15.1% alcohol to the sexy palate, a real pleasure. (****+)

J. Lohr 2007 Hilltop Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($38.95 - #686584) - juicy blackberry, black cherry and heavy tannins. (*** 1/2+) - FD

McManis 2010 Chardonnay ($19.95 - #265983) - shows a nice balance of fruit, oak and other flavours, vanilla cream and lemon meringue finish; well-priced for Cali-Chard. (*** 1/2+)

Simi 2009 Russian River Valley Reserve Chardonnay ($31.95 - #200881) - buttery, oaky, butterscotch and spice; this one's for you oaky Chardonnay fans. (*** 1/2+)

Van Ruiten 2009 Old Vine Zinfandel ($23.95 - #058685) - juicy, blackberry, plum, cherry with spice on the finish. (*** 1/2)

(Washington)

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($NA - #269357) - irresistible wine from Washington which drinks well right not, full of fruit and full on flavour. (****)

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

Barone Ricasoli Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico 2008 ($59.95 - #942607) - prety hefty stuff (****) - FD

Mitolo 2008 Savitar Shiraz ($54.95 - #659581) - super rich mocha-plum and spice. (****)

Shafer 2009 Merlot ($59.95 - #346262) - the juiciness of Merlot is in this bottle. (****) - FD

What I'll Be Lining Up For ...

Maycas de Limari 2008 Reserva Especial Syrah ($19.95 - #269423) - Chile

Happy Shopping

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