tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13264968274264679272024-03-05T09:15:49.542-05:00Vintages RecommendationsA bi weekly summary of the wines I'd pick from the latest LCBO Vintages release. Please do keep in mind I am a big red bigot...no fan of wimpy Pinot Noirs. White wines will be tolerated if the QPR is excellent...but I lean towards reds from Tuscany, the Southern Rhone, Aussies, the Okanagan, Washington State, Chile, Argentina and California (but only if the price is right).BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.comBlogger221125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-70889768310538348842017-01-03T16:48:00.000-05:002017-01-03T16:48:06.466-05:00January Vintages Release - New Year - same old, same old.<div class="MsoNormal">
January 7<sup>th</sup>, 2017. Another new year is upon us.
This is supposed to be Vintages bargain release, a release in which wise
shoppers are treated to a release laden with high quality, bargain priced wines.
That’s what is supposed to happen and in a world where actual competition
exists, it might. In Ontario, not so much. Ah well. There are a few that might tickle your fancy, otherwise watch
for markdowns by stores.<o:p></o:p></div>
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WHITE WINES <o:p></o:p></div>
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Since this is a bargain release, let’s start with a good
bargain. Among the better whites this week is The Vinecrafter – a Chenin Blanc from South Africa. It’s in the general list and is currently $8.25.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Next up is another Chenin Blanc, this one in the release and from MAN Vinters. Their Free Run Steen is a
good buy at $13.95.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you want to compare a French take on the same grape, try
the HERITIERS DUBOIS VOUVRAY 2015. Capable
of short term aging so no rush to open. <o:p></o:p></div>
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If Salmon is on your menu, the PFAFF SPECIAL 2015 a blend of
Sylvaner and Chardonnay might be the ticket. $13.95.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The best Chardonnay in the release (for my tastes) is the <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Macon Uchizy 2015</span>. At $15.95, this is
pretty well priced.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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RED WINES<o:p></o:p></div>
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PIATTELLI PREMIUM RESERVE MALBEC 2013 - $16.95 – Ranked in
the WS Top 100 last year, so you’re probably getting a wine that is resting on
its laurels and not on that level of quality but we shall see.<o:p></o:p></div>
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JIP JIP ROCKS SHIRAZ 2014 - $16.95 –Good Value for the bucks
here.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The omnipresent Gerard Bertrand strikes again with one of
the wines of the month. His wines are from the Languedoc and are well priced
for the quality they deliver. The 2013 TAUTAVEL GRAND TERROIR is a blend of
Syrah, Grenache and Carignan. At $18.95, it’s a bit expensive. If you can, look
for leftover CAP INSULA or CORBIERES at
a couple of dollars less <o:p></o:p></div>
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Le Gravillas SABLET COTES Du RHONE VILLAGES 2014 - $15.95 –
Nice buy here. Among the best red buys in the release.<o:p></o:p></div>
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CHATEAU BOUSCASSE 2009 - $21.95 – Already 7 years old but
still not yet ready, give this another year or so and decant even then! Tannat is a slooooowwww developer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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LACRIMUS CRIANZA 2012 – Best buy from Spain in this release.<o:p></o:p></div>
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RIO MADRE GRACIANO 2014 - $15.95 – A Rioja but not Tempranillo. Should be a buck or two less.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-62932560658103304932016-12-08T15:26:00.000-05:002016-12-08T15:26:00.557-05:00Vintages December 10th release - Another year come and gone<div class="MsoNormal">
Well, here we are the final Vintages release of the year and
to say the year has been ho hum would be overly complimentary to the year I
think. The combination of mediocre
vintages in parts of the world combined with the reduction of the global value
of the Canadian dollar has meant we’ve seen fewer exciting wines often at massive
jumps in price. In the case of California, two or three stellar vintages in a
row all came at a time when the Canuck buck was at its worst. Woe is us. Ah
well, one more reason to drink I suppose. Below are my final picks from the
final release of the year 2016.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whites and Bubblies<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pierre Luc Bouchard Muscadet Sevre et Maine sur lie - $14.95 – one of the
few real bargains in the release, this will please any and all white wine fans
during the holidays.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Louis Moreau Chablis 2015 - $21.95 – Well priced for a
pretty good quality Chablis.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dirty Laundry Chardonnay 2014-$19.95- Should be almost
burgundian in style. <o:p></o:p></div>
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REDS<o:p></o:p></div>
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Schola Sarmenti Nerio Reserva 2012 - $21.95 – Malvasia Nera
and Negroamaro are blended to make an almost black wine that has a lot going on. Ageworthy but can be
enjoyed now as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Castellani Filicheto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2012 -
$18.95 – Try one to see how you like it. I expect an intense looooong finish on
this one. Give it time in the glass or decant.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico Reserva
2011-21.95 – Well scored by Bruce Sanderson of the Wine Spectator, this’ll be a
nice food wine as well as an interesting comparison with the CCR’s in the
previous release.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A trio of sub $20 Spaniards make the list this week. (See I’m
already showing signs of restraint here) – The Rioja Vega Crianza 2012
($16.95), The Burgo Viejo Crianza 2012 ($15.95) and the Ardal Crianza 2010
($19.95) should all be very nice quaffers with any holiday meal.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If Spain is not in your wheelhouse, try the Triptych Blend
from South Africa. It’s always pleasing
at $16.95.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Getting bigger still, there are 4 Australians that merit
attention. All come in just under or around the $20 mark. Among them is the
terribly named Baron von Nemesis from Zonte’s Footsteps which has steadily
risen in price but is well made; the Dandelion Vineyards 2014 Lionheart of the
Barossa; the Thorn Clarke Shotfire
Quartage blend from 2014; and the Wakefield Cabernet Sauvignon 2014. The latter is festooned with
enough medals to pass as a South American general, but don’t hold that against
it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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If you’re looking for a good Cabernet from the U.S., try
either the Chateau Ste. Michelle from Washington St. @$21.95 or spend a few
bucks more and go upscale for the St. Francis Cab ($29.95) from Sonoma. Both
will be nice with something rare and red on a plate.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Big Bucks<o:p></o:p></div>
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The theme running thru the big buck choices this week seems
to be price inflation. Some of these wines are increasing in price faster than
the Vancouver and Toronto real estate markets. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Paul Hobbs Cross Barn Cab Sauv 2013 - $69.95. The August
2013 release of this wine was priced at $38.95. Think about that.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Francis Ford Coppola Director’s Cut Cab Sauv 2014 - $44.95.
One of my favourites from Sonoma, but it has jumped about $10 so I’m trying to
find alternatives (see the St. Francis above).<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trapiche Terrior Single Vineyard Finca Ambrosia Malbec 2011
- $39.95 – Among the better big malbecs, Trapiche produces usually 3 of these
each year to highlight their superior vineyard managers. It’s quite an honour
to be named.<o:p></o:p></div>
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E.Guigal Chateauneuf du Pape 2010 - $63.95 – Spectacular vintage
in the Rhone and this one should be very well made. Ready to begin to be
consumed now but great for at least another dozen years as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Domus Vitae Brunello di Montalcino 2007 - $63.95 – Best recent
vintage prior to 2010 and right where you want it if you’re looking for a
Christmas gift to drink this year (or over the next 10).<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-35601214372960508412016-11-23T09:34:00.000-05:002016-11-23T11:10:41.929-05:00Vintages November 26th release - Wallets at the ready? Go!<div class="MsoNormal">
After a long delay, due in equal parts to a motorcycle tour
to Alabama, travel to India, a sabbatical from work and just general boredom
with the Vintages releases, we have returned with a new perspective. They say
travel opens your eyes to things – our visit to Kerala, India and our
subsequent attempts to buy some beer there made the LCBO seem positively liberal
(small L that is) in its policies. The line ups were long and the process was
not dissimilar to the LCBO of the 1960’s when seeing the evil stuff was
forbidden! That said, when we ventured to Goa, beer and beverage alcohol were
plentiful, easily purchased and cheap. A 26’er of very good rum was the
equivalent of $2.50 US. Finding a good wine was a different story.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anyhow, enough about the world, let’s talk Vintages. The
next release – November 26<sup>th</sup> – is annually the big holiday gift release
which means dollars are up and QPR is down. There are some that are worthy of
your attention but if you’re looking for reviews of wine over the $50 price
point, look elsewhere my friends. Bad LCBO markups, Taxes and the weak Canuck
buck are just taking too much of a toll on us! That means I can ignore the
first 23 pages of the release – as much as I’d love to review any of the
products therein.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s take a trip down memory lane to start. <o:p></o:p></div>
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ALVEAR SOLERA 1927 PEDRO XIMENEZ – 19.95 for a 375ml - Do
you remember how your old Aunt’s house smelled when you went to visit? In a
cloud of mustiness she’d lean over and always want a big hug saying “Oh my you’ve
grown so tall!” while she sipped on her glass of sherry. Well this
recommendation is not your old Aunt’s sherry by any stretch. More post than pre
meal, this be a beaut!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Looking for a bubbly? Try one of these three, all below $20
and should be fine.<o:p></o:p></div>
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DOMAINE DE VAUGUNDY BRUT VOUVRAY -$17.95- Chenin Blanc
grapes – very nice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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GRAHAM BECK ‘BRUT’ -$18.95 – This superior producer of dry
table wines has hit the mark here with a very tasty alternative to champagne.<o:p></o:p></div>
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FANTINEL Prosecco - $18.95 – A single vineyard production –
great on its own or with lighter seafoods.<o:p></o:p></div>
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RED WINES<o:p></o:p></div>
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Looking for under $20 values in this release and while there
are some, they are not easy to find so maybe we’ll bump the price to $30. My
picks, pretty much in the order I’d pick them - <o:p></o:p></div>
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UMBERTO CESARI LIANO 2012 – $27.95 - Previous vintages of
this wine were superb accompaniments to red meats or on their own. From the
under appreciated Emilia Romagna.<o:p></o:p></div>
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COLUMBIA CREST H3 LES CHEVAUX Red Blend 2012 - $19.95-
Anything from the Horse Heaven Hills seems to be impossible to mess up.
Columbia Crest continues that trend here. Might be a bit too much oak for some.<o:p></o:p></div>
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SAN FELICE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2013 – $19.95 - A difficult
spring (it was cold and dull) gave way to a better summer in Chianti and Three
of Three from Gambero Rosso is hard to ignore.<o:p></o:p></div>
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VILLA CAFAGGIO CHIATI CLASSICO 2013 – $21.95 - Wonderful and
consistent producer, this could do with a year or so in a quiet place but will
be excellent after that. Decant if you must drink sooner.<o:p></o:p></div>
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BARON DE LEY Reserva 2010- $21.95 – Outstanding wine always.
Great on its own, better with roast meats.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Two Valpolicellas – Monte del Fra at $21.95 and REMO FARINA RIPASSO
VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2014 – $17.95 – Both beautiful mouthsful in name and product. Excellent to have on hand
for both wine lovers and non wine lovers. Both groups can find enjoyment in these
wines.<o:p></o:p></div>
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WYNN’S COONAWARRA ESTATE SHIRAZ 2012 – $22.95 - A very nice
effort from a good producer and from a
region known more for Cabs that shiraz.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cantine de Falco Falco Reserva - $18.95 – I have not yet
tasted this wine but am going on 3 things – the Vintage was excellent, the
blend of grapes are interesting, and
lastly, similar blends were among the best wines we had when visiting Puglia a
few years back.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ceppaiano Violetta 2010 – $22.95 - Again an excellent
vintage that should be right in its drinking window. <o:p></o:p></div>
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BOSAO BOLE 2013-$15.95 – Might be the sleeper of the
release. New to me but the producer is solid and consistent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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MAGANA DIGNUS 2012 - $15.95 – A great Parker score and
really well priced but new to me and the
Parker review is now 2 years old so don’t go crazy buying it until you’ve tried
one.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-10828035894534016752016-08-03T10:58:00.004-04:002016-08-04T13:50:11.334-04:00August 6 is here already! 3 whites, 6 reds make the grade.<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">Not a lot to pick from in this release but we are in the dog days of summer...</span></b><br />
<b><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">Cathedral Cellar Blanc de Blancs Sparkling
Wine 2010 WO Western Cape South Africa, $16.95</span>
</b>– Very well priced – nice with popcorn or potato chips. I know, I know, haute
cuisine!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><b>Thelema Mountain Vineyards Sutherland
Chardonnay 2012 </b></span><span style="background: white; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">South Africa, $15.95</span> – Well priced and very
good.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><b>Inniskillin Montague Vineyard Chardonnay
2013 Niagara, $24.95</b></span>
– Previous vintages of this were very nice. Look for it to come on sale in your local Wine Rack store.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">Gerard Bertrand Grand Terroir Les Aspres
Grenache/Mourvedre/Syrah 2013 Cotes du Roussillon, $18.95</span> </b>– Another of
the Bertrand stable of wines. Very, very good.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><b>Columbia Crest H3 Merlot 2013 Horse Heaven
Hills Columbia Valley, $19.95</b></span> – liquid oak, vanilla and chocolate covered
cherries.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><b>Best's Bin No. 1 Shiraz 2013 Victoria, $19.95</b></span>
– The best of the Aussie shiraz this time around.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><b>Chateau D’Angles
La Clape 2012 - $17.95</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> – </span></span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Try one, you might like it!<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><b>Ardal
Reserva 2006 – $21.95</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> – </span></span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Already with 10 years on it, this’ll be ready to go
right away.<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 19.9733px;"><b>Hacienda Lopez de Haro Reserva 2009 Rioja, $17.95</b></span><span style="line-height: normal;"> – Older style Tempranillo – ready to go.</span></span></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-51706885682785929422016-06-20T13:36:00.001-04:002016-06-20T13:36:34.600-04:00June 25th - Southern France this time around<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s the June 25<sup>th</sup> release and the LCBO has taken
a full 12 pages to sell a mere 14 wines in their Southern France feature. I
will acknowledge that they are covering 3 or 4 regions but if the LCBO’s retail
plan was to provide Ontario consumers with more choice, someone should tell
them that given the choice of more well priced, quality wine or pretty pictures on pages, we consumers
will opt for the former every time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Also featured are Canuck wines for Canada Day and some
Ontario Rosés.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Gerard Bertrand Gris Blanc 2015 – Available in 750ml and 1.5
litre bottles, here’s a white wine with a hint of a blush. Will satisfy both
rosé fans and Pinot Gris and even perhaps Grigio fans. Worth trying with shrimp and avocado salad.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pierre Amadieu Le Grangeliere Vacqueyras 2014 - $22.95 –
Among my favourite crus in the Southern Rhone, the wines of Vacqueyras are
fruit forward and approachable but with enough tannic back bone to support some
mid term ageing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Borgo Scopeto Chianti Classico 2013 - $19.95 – Annually
among my favourite non reservas from the Classico zone of Chianti and usually at
an attractive price. A superior option to enjoy with pizza or pasta and a
tomato/ meat sauce. Not a great vintage but I think this one’ll rise above it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Domaine Les Yeuses ‘Les Epices’ Syrah 2013 -$15.95 – Good
price and a very tasty option that usually over delivers. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Vega Moragona La Duna Single Vineyard Tempranillo
2011-$17.95 – Site specific so look for terroir differences to your usual
Tempranillo blends. 20% new oak so the oak should be less pronounced than in
some Riojas (for instance). Smooth, ready to go right now, but not built for
long term aging. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Chateau St. Roch Chimeres 2014 - $19.95 – Mostly Grenache
from a slightly tougher Grenache vintage, but worthy of a try.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Domaine des Terrisses Grande Tradition Gaillac 2012 - $17.95
– Selected only because this is a blend of unusual grapes, Duras, Braucol (aka
Fer in France), and a soupcon of Syrah. If nothing else this’ll be a
conversation starter among your wine geek friends.<o:p></o:p></div>
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BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
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Manus Dei du Chateau
Sixteen 2013 - $38.95 – From a ‘better than most’ recent vintage, this
might be worth springing for if you’re looking for a bigger wine that you can
rest for a short time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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Ridolfi Brunello di Montalcino -2010 - $48.95 – Wonderful
vintage but a new producer for me. Ahhh, so many producers, so little time! <o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-13659307486498239582016-06-01T10:20:00.002-04:002016-06-01T10:20:39.346-04:00June 11th release, Bubblies, Zins and Dad's day <div class="MsoNormal">
June 11 means it’s time for the annual Father's day release. Like a profligate, prodigal son, the LCBO spends like mad but delivers disappointment for dad. A feature that
provides a few OK bubblies is backed by a page wasting Zinfandel feature and
one for Dad that manages to fit more (mostly mundane) bottles into fewer pages taken by the Zins. Some good news
this week is that my regular selections are all under $20 and even the big buck ones stay under $50. <o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li>South Africa – Mulderbosch – Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 2015
- $12.95 – Always an amazing combination of quality and price, this is among my
favourite rosés every year.</li>
<li>Rustenberg Petit Verdot Rosé 2015 – $13.95- Slightly more
expensive than the Mulderbosch and an interesting new wine for me to try. Might be the first Petit Verdot Rosé ever for
me.</li>
<li>Conde Valdemar Rosé 2015 - $13.95 – Mostly Grenache, this
will be a delight with grilled shrimp or other seafood.</li>
<li>Cattin Brut Rosé Cremant D’Alsace - $18.95 – a light rose
colour adds an extra dimension to this sparkler’s strawberry notes.</li>
<li>De Chancey Excellence Brut Vouvray 2013 -$19.95 – Made with
Chenin Blanc, if you’re a fan, dive in to its citrus goodness.</li>
<li>Rotari Brut Rosé $17.95 – Well priced for this one. Look for
creamy pastry notes and sweet red fruit hints.</li>
<li>Chateau Grande Moulin Vielle Vignes 2012- $15.95 – Made from
vines over 100 years old, three stars from Guide Hachette and this price make
this among the best options in the release.</li>
<li>Domaine les Verrieres Les Sept Fontaines 2009 - $18.95 –
Slightly more expensive and more aged, this is another good option. Should be
right in its drinking window over the next year.</li>
<li>Zonte’s Footsteps Baron von Nemesis Shiraz 2013 - $17.95 –
Among the goofier wine names but the bottle contents will surprise. Better than
many at $7 more.</li>
<li>Balbas Reserva 2005 – Be careful here. The wine is from 2005
and the review is 6 years old. Buyer beware!</li>
<li>Lopez de Haro Crianza 2010 - $15.95 – Six years old and
ready to drink right now.</li>
<li>Poggio Stella Vino Nobile de Montepulciano – 2011 - $24.95 –
Ready to go with some air, serve with a thick, rare T bone.</li>
</ul>
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<b><u>Big Bucks cuz Dad’s
worth it!<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li>Beringer Napa Valley 2013 $49.95 – Great vintage, fine
producer, big $$’s.</li>
<li> Tenuta La Fuga –
Brunello di Montalcino - 2010 - $42.95 – Well scored by the very credible Bruce
Sanderson, from a brilliant vintage. Let Dad snooze on the sofa while this one
sleeps in the cellar.</li>
</ul>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-75217274009556689162016-05-20T08:35:00.000-04:002016-05-20T08:35:16.653-04:00Vintages May 28th - Venice sinks and Judgement more like Judge Judy<div class="MsoNormal">
May 28<sup>th</sup>’s release has two features - Venice is
the big one followed by a review of products from some of the American wineries involved in the Mid
70’s Judgement in Paris. On the Venice front are a few different reds but the
best selections are two white styles - the well made Soave and a Prosecco. The
reds? Mmmmm, my opinion right now is there is not so much to pick from up to
and including a couple of Big $ Amarones. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Judgement in Paris feature reflects the weak Canadian
dollar and Napa wine prices in general.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Picks? Vintages maintains its streak of less than thrilling
releases so there are few that you need to rush out for again this week.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WHITES, ROSES and BUBBLIES<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Pieropan Soave Classico 2014</b> – Do not expect a buttery
chardonnay. This is rated Dry by the LCBO, but perhaps due to its acidity, I’ve
found past vintages seem dry beyond that level. Superior producer. Excellent with
summer salads.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Belcanto di Bellussi Prosecco Valdobiadine</b> $19.95 – Want a
nice dry Italian bubbly? Here you go.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>NZ - Saint Clair Family Estate Pinot Gris Rosé</b> 2015 -$16.95
– Not 100% Pinot Gris but rather a blend of Pinots (Gris and Noir) combined to
produce a slightly deceptively labelled rosé.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Peninsula Ridge Beal Vineyard rosé 2015 - $13.95 – An
excellent and very well priced Ontario rosé. Serve chilled with fish tacos,
chicken fajitas, or any hard/ soft cheese, coldcut combo that your heart
desires. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>REDS</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>TUSCANY - Carpineto Vino Nobile de Montepulciano Riserva
2010</b> - $29.95 – With 2010 being heralded as <b><i><u>THE</u></i></b> vintage in
Montalcino, it stands to reason that the vintage should be almost the same a
mere 20 kms to the east in Montepulciano. At half the price of the Banfi, look for this to be a bargain ‘baby
Brunello’. Yes it is a different sangiovese clone, but very similar and great
with the same types of food. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Viticcio Chianti Classico 2012</b> – $20.95 – Ready to drink and
enjoy with any tomato sauced, pasta based dishes. Nothing too complex here but
enjoyable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SPAIN - Borsao Tres Picos 2014</b> - $19.95 – The last few
vintages have been less to my taste but I’m willing to try again with this
perennial favourite. Still not badly priced (do not take that to mean well
priced), this is a quality wine and a good expression of Grenache.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Tobia Seleccion Crianza 2010</b> - $21.95 – A wine that comes
with a warning. While being well scored by the Toronto Star wine reviewer, her
review reads like this wine is a midwinter classic. If you buy, consider
holding until November perhaps even until your first tourtiere of the season. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Australia - D’Arenberg The Footbolt Shiraz 2013</b> – A big gulp
to be sure. Teethstaining grapes from the McLaren Vale.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>CHILE - Montgras Antu Cabernet Sauvignon 2013</b> - $17.95 – A
very good wine, spiced and oaked in good proportion and less of the green notes
that some Chilean cabernets can propose.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>ARGENTINA - Benmarco Malbec 2013</b>-$17.95 – Huge production so
it’s difficult to say if the quality can be maintained across the entire run,
but this is a producer who has pleased in the past. Grill something red and
don’t expect too much complexity though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Kaiken Ultra Malbec </b>-$19.95 – Knock 5 points off Suckling’s
score and you’ll get what you expect.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Domaine Mathieu Chateauneuf du Pape 2012 </b>$41.95 – From the
latest of the truly good vintages in the region, this should still be just
coming into its drinking window.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Banfi Brunello di Montalcino 2010</b> – 5 bucks lass and I’d buy
but just too rich for me now.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-56813260354099149642016-05-09T08:38:00.001-04:002016-05-09T08:38:57.216-04:00May's Favourites Release. Really? This was the best you could do?<div class="MsoNormal">
The first release of May oft times set us up for a summer of
backyard grilling and cottage visiting. This year? Not so much. While this is
supposed to be a ‘Favourites’ release, I
think there are a few options of interest but to be kind, let’s call it
a release you can miss without suffering. No cabernet catatonia, no grenache
grief, no merlot melancholy, no pangs of pinot envy, no syrah sorrow, not even xenophobia
induced by a lack of, dare I state it, xinomavro. Just go about your life. Or check out the remnants of some past
Vintages releases. Me? I’m considering the Gigondas, the Shotfire, and maybe
one Barolo on price alone, but c’est tout.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s also a nod to New Zealand if you are a fan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE - PIERRE AMADIEU ROMANE-MACHOTTE GIGONDAS 2013 598
cases of 12 $24.95 – In a better year this would be a brilliant buy but even
taking into account the Grenache issues for this vintage it is a pretty good
option. Look for more pepper notes than
usual.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OZ - THORN-CLARKE SHOTFIRE QUARTAGE 2013 335 cases
of 12 $21.95 – Well made, well done wine. Never lets you down. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OZ - ZONTE'S FOOTSTEP LAKE DOCTOR SHIRAZ 2013 1997 cases of
12 $17.95 - Pretty good quality in the
Aussie style.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MIDI - GÉRARD BERTRAND SYRAH/GRENACHE 2013 1199 cases
of 12 $16.95 – Vintages begins to be a
Bertrand playground again. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MIDI - SAINT-ROCH VIEILLES VIGNES SYRAH/GRENACHE 2013 615 cases
of 12 $16.95 – A toss up between these
two from the Midi. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GREECE - BOUTARI GRANDE RESERVE XINOMAVRO 2010 450 cases of
12 $18.95 - A well priced entry into better, if not
finer, Greek wines.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PIEDMONT - CASETTA BAROLO 2011 299 cases of 12 $29.95 - A Barolo under $30? Seems like a no brainer
for at least one but hold for a few years and decant well before serving.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY -CASTELLARE
DI CASTELLINA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2013 249 cases of 12 $24.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY -RENDOLA ROSSO DI MONTALCINO 2009 599 cases of 12 $15.95
- Bargain priced Rosso for the BBQ ready to drink right now if not last year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY -SAN LEONINO
CHIANTI CLASSICO 2012 299 cases of 12 $19.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOUTH AFRICA - CATHEDRAL CELLAR SHIRAZ 2014 (KWV) 559 cases
of 12 $16.95 - Solid summer quaffer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPARKLERS and ROSES<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ONTARIO - FIELDING ROSÉ 2015 119 cases of 12 $15.95 – OK
pink from a good family producer. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPARKLING WINE-BURGUNDY- BAILLY LAPIERRE RÉSERVE BRUT
CRÉMANT DE BOURGOGNE 800 cases of 6 $19.95 -
Like a pink sparkler every now and again but don’t want to break the bank? Here
it is.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY -VAL DI SUGA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 198 cases
of 12 $48.95 – Another from the brilliant 2010 vintage. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE - DOMAINE COURBIS SAINT-JOSEPH 2013 118 cases of 12
$36.95 - Vines of the Northern Rhone were
not as hurt by the cold spring so this is a Rhone vintage where the North is
better than the south. <o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-91982352845739411262016-05-04T11:44:00.001-04:002016-05-17T08:53:45.877-04:00The $17 Pata Negra Reserva 2010 from SpainHere's an update on the Pata Negra in the last release at $17.00. You may recall it got a scathing review from my brother when recently released in BC. In spite of that, and because I found a very different lot number, I bought 3 on the weekend. The lot number I bought was lot L-L095 and the bottles were terrific. Yes I went back and bought a few more. Very similar to the first release of Muriel Reserva last year - big, dark cherry notes, some red cherry too, some vanilla from well integrated oak, and spicy notes.<br />
<br />
If you can find that lot number, buy it. And let me know what you think. If you bought a different lot number (as you can tell from the photo it's somewhere on the back label usually) tell me which one you bought and what you thought of yours.<br />
Update 2 - I stopped in to the Oakville Cornwall store on the weekend. They had a few of the lot number above and many from different lot numbers. The telling statement about the lots came from a consultant who mentioned that a customer had bought and returned an entire case because it was 'terrible'.<br />
<br />BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-70223566840443731042016-04-20T12:45:00.001-04:002016-04-27T13:07:21.995-04:00April 30th Vintages - Lots of options, I suppose.<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1326496827426467927" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
This final release of April means 4 months have gone in
another year. Holy smokes, time flies when you’re drinking wine. This week’s
Vintages release is a cornucopia of diverse wines and styles. Three different
options this week - The Pacific Northwest, Australian Whites, and lastly Roses
from around the world. It’s a release that has a lot of promise. Most of it
unfulfilled. Ah well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>WHITE TABLE WINE<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LOIRE - CHÂTEAU DE
LA BRETESCHE MUSCADET SÈVRE ET MAINE SUR Lie
799 cases of 12 $13.95 – Melon de
Burgogne grape doing a great impression
of an unoaked, full fruit, bargain priced chard.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BURGUNDY - VIGNERONS DE BUXY LES CHANIOTS MONTAGNY 1ER CRU
2013 219 cases of 12 $24.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BURGUNDY - VINCENT MOTHE CHABLIS 2014 249 cases
of 12 $26.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>RED TABLE WINE<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WASHINGTON St - HOGUE <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Genesis
Meritage</span> – Good, solid wine for the upcoming BBQ season. Black fruits
with oak in support. If you like the CC H3 red blend, this’ll be right for you too. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ARGENTINA - LAMADRID SINGLE VINEYARD RESERVA MALBEC 2012 2998 cases
of 12 $17.00 A good wine, not up to Suckling’s score but
probably 90. Great for the BBQ with marinated steak, burgers or rare lamb
chops.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA - WAKEFIELD JARAMAN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 380 cases
of 12 $24.95 – Wakefield is renowned for the QPR of their wines. This one goes
a little upscale but should be very nice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">ustralia</span> –
SIDEWOOD SHIRAZ 2013 -$19.95 – Festooned with plenty of gold and scored like
crazy by Halliday, this is a new Shiraz for me but I’ll be trying it. The
‘drink by 2043’ is pretty difficult to believe. I expect to be long gone by
then but so will Halliday, so how is anyone going to call him on it?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA - MITOLO
JESTER CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 493 cases of 12 $22.95 – Good stuff this. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE -LE GRAVILLAS PLAN DE DIEU CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES
2014 598 cases of 12 $17.95 – As good as the
Domaine le Grand Retour from recent releases? This one is a year younger and 3
bucks more. I’d buy the latter if it’s still available.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY - TENUTA DI CAPRAIA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2013 649 cases
of 12 $21.95 – Nice, fruit driven Chianti Classico – not a great year though.
Did I say it was cold and wet that May?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN - <b><u>DOMINIO
DEL VIENTO CRIANZA 2011 712 cases of
12 $16.95</u></b> - Might be the better of the two Spanish
selections this week.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN - <b><u>MARQUÉS DE CARRION PATA NEGRA RESERVA
2010 2991 cases of 12 $17.00 – </u>Price is right but
only if this comes in like the Muriel 2008 Reserva of last year. If so, it
might be a box worthy purchase. However, two bottles of this were thin,
insipid, uninspired, oaky messes when bought and tried at two different times
by my brother and sister in law in B.C. The wine was released there recently
(for substantially more $, I might add) so I was looking forward to their
opinions. Their palates are finely tuned to the old world so for them to be so unimpressed,
it had to be less than mediocre. Here’s the lot number from their second bottle
– my public service announcement now comes to a close with two words – buyer
beware.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZi2gVgEfBKtlK4JgXzxJ0yANexedWpHiqL3xZd1aTPxcgaIgsibNR-AByhgdiazTohcpKYxBW_5MrEt2EyWKJTBo1khVpsn92LVTo4SVfbKWPWiCl3Qrj348FbnW3iYgqV7F5tAARzE/s1600/pata+negra+bottle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZi2gVgEfBKtlK4JgXzxJ0yANexedWpHiqL3xZd1aTPxcgaIgsibNR-AByhgdiazTohcpKYxBW_5MrEt2EyWKJTBo1khVpsn92LVTo4SVfbKWPWiCl3Qrj348FbnW3iYgqV7F5tAARzE/s640/pata+negra+bottle.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1326496827426467927" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><b><u>ROSE TABLE WINE –
Sitting on the deck<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
ARGENTINA - BODEGA SANTA JULIA VIDA ORGÁNICA MALBEC ROSÉ
2015 523 cases of 12$13.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MIDI - L'OSTAL CAZES
ROSÉ 2015 447 cases of 12 $14.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PROVENCE - GASSIER SABLES D'AZUR ROSÉ 2015 1199 cases
of 12$15.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
ITALY- FRIULI- DUCA CATEMARIO DI QUADRI COLLEZIONE PRIVATA
PINOT 396 cases of 12 $14.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN - VIÑA REAL ROSADO 2015 794 cases
of 6 $15.95; MUGA from the previous
Catalogue -$13.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>BIG BUCKS and ISDs</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ARGENTINA -TRAPICHE TERROIR SERIES FINCA AMBROSIA SINGLE
VINEYARD – An ISD so 49 cases of 6 at $39.95 – I love these single vineyard
productions from Trapiche. Impenetrably dark, unctuous fruit and a bottle made
for wrist curls or for bar fights.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NORMAN HARDIE UNFILTERED CHARDONNAY 2014 131 cases of 12 $39.00 – Perhaps not quite
so puckering as his PEC Chard, but very good nonetheless. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Tuscany</span>-RENDOLA
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2004 300 cases
of 12 $39.95 – Want to know what your
2010’s will be like in 12 years? Try one of these. 2004 was almost as good a
vintage as 2010 so fear not. <o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-32662029031333693192016-04-07T09:28:00.000-04:002016-04-20T12:51:57.133-04:00April 16th Vintages release - Not too much to get excited about.<div class="MsoNormal">
April 16<sup>th</sup> and the LCBO Vintages team brings us a
feature called European Vocation. This terrible play on European Vacation had
us looking forward to Shari Mokg Edwards starring as Clark Griswald in one of
those expensive, tax payer sponsored, LCBO web videos. Sadly twas not to be. I
guess she lacks the comic chops, but that’s not to say the LCBO doesn’t make us
laugh with this release. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA - DANDELION VINEYARDS LIONHEART OF THE BAROSSA
SHIRAZ 1150 cases of 12 $21.95 – Creeping up in price but a perennial
favourite here in Ontario. Big, bold, Barossa. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BRITISH COLUMBIA - CULMINA
R&D RED BLEND 2014 166 cases of 12 $25.95 - From Don Triggs’ latest wine adventure, this
is worth trying if only to see how he’s doing. The winemaker was formerly the
maker at Osoyoos Larose I think.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE - DOMAINE LE GRAND RETOUR PLAN DE DIEU CÔTES DU RHÔNE
VILLAGES - 997 cases of 12 $14.95 – Annually a favourite chez moi and at
the monopoly. Always nice to get a wine produced almost next door to Chateauneuf
and at 1/3<sup>rd</sup> the price. Good value. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE - SANTA DUC ROAIX LES CROTTES 2010 391 cases of
12 $19.95 – Another of the ‘under the
radar’ named Villages (not quite a cru) and from a great vintage. This should
be right in its drinking window now and over the next year or two. I read
somewhere that this was ‘too hard to sell as ROAIX’ so the fruit is now
included in the Santa Duc Quatre Terres CdR-V. A little expensive but worth a
shot.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FRANCE, SOUTHWEST - CLOS TROTELIGOTTE K-OR MALBEC 2014 299 cases
of 12 $18.95 – Great producer, clever
name playing on the Cahors region. Give it a few years then it’d be fun to try
blind with a Malbec from Argentina to see the differences in style. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PUGLIA - TORMARESCA TORCICODA PRIMITIVO 2013 274 cases
of 12 $20.95 – BBQ time, so why not an
Italian Zin from ANTINORI? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY - SAN FELICE
IL GRIGIO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2011 298 cases of 12 $27.95 – Solid producer and year, but not cheap. One might be worth a try.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY - GUADO AL TASSO IL BRUCIATO 2013 288 cases
of 12 $25.95 - A blend of Cab Sauv, Merlot and Syrah also from Antinori. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOUTH AFRICA - RUSTENBERG
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 299 cases of 12 $19.95 - Silver medals at 4 different major wine
shows as well as scores of 89 and 90 points from critics not named Suckling
give this wine credibility. While new world in place, this is a slightly more
Bordeaux style of cab sauv.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN - CVNE RESERVA 2011 694 cases
of 6
$24.95 - Excellent producer,
ageable but also drinkable now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN -VIÑA REAL CRIANZA 2012 996 cases
of 6 $18.95 - Ditto. How’s that for a detailed review?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CALIFORNIA - MICHAEL DAVID FREAKSHOW CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013
658 cases of 12 $26.95 – What a great label! Described as
reminiscent of the Sgt Pepper Album cover (you kids can ask your parents), this
is a big wine from the Phillips brothers in Lodi California. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>BIG BUCKS and ISDs<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Tuscany</span> -AVIGNONESI
VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2012 166 cases of 12 $39.95 – Visiting the wineries around
Montepulciano and gauging the locals’ impressions of the newish owners of
Avignonesi was quite interesting last fall. The opinion seemed to be that they
were outsiders and were not interested in the traditional ways nor integrating
themselves. The locals all had another winery that they recommended we visit
instead of going there. Avignonesi wines do score well though it appears they
have decided to move into Brunello territory, price wise. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BURGUNDY -CHÂTEAU-FUISSÉ TÊTE DE CRU POUILLY-FUISSÉ 2012 ISD
34 cases of 12 $41.95 – Tasty chardonnay but $$’s. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE - DOMAINE DE LA CHARBONNIÈRE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2012 147 cases
of 12 $43.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Tuscany </span>- LA
LECCIAIA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 147 cases of 6
$57.95 – Too many $$’s for me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Tuscany </span>-IL
GRIGIO DA SAN FELICE GRAN SELEZIONE CHIANTI CLASSICO 333 cases
of 6 $46.95 - You know this was Wine Enthusiast's #1 wine last year, right? Just sayin'.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
OZ - BAROSSA VALLEY ESTATE EBENEZER CABERNET SAUVIGNON 221 cases
of 6 $39.95 – Ebenezer syrah is (doing my best
Jimmy Fallon doing his best Donald Trump) “HUUUGE!” I see no reason for the cab
to be anything less.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-87447276607590605942016-03-28T11:55:00.000-04:002016-03-28T11:55:05.852-04:00Vintages April 2 - Old vs. New - At my age, you know who I'm cheering for!<div class="MsoNormal">
A release that features comparisons of a number of old and
new world wines. The good news here is
that you get to see not only the stylistic
differences in the wines but also the differences in the way wines are marketed
and sold in the old and new world. As you may have noticed, one often focuses on the place, the
other mostly on the grape.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ARGENTINA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NORTON RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 558 cases
0f 12 $17.95 – Among the better buys in
the release, this Cab will offer lots to accompany your spring BBQs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
JIM BARRY THE LODGE HILL SHIRAZ 2013 748 cases
0f 12 $24.95 – 2013 would have been harvested in the March April timeframe so
this one has a wee bit of age on it. The Lodge Hill is always a favourite,
slightly cooler climate and ready to go, big but not overwhelming.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ZONTE'S FOOTSTEP AVALON TREE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 638 cases
0f 12 $17.95 – A new one for me. Based
on their shiraz wines I have no reason to expect anything less than a good
product. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THORN-CLARKE SHOTFIRE SHIRAZ 2013 390 cases
0f 12 $21.95 - Excellent<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
XANADU DJL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 248 cases
0f 12 $22.95 – Baby brother to their excellent and recently released Xanadu Cab
which sold out at my local stores faster than you can say Olivia Newton John.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHILE- EMILIANA COYAM 2012 - $29.95 – The 95 points from
Suckling is over the top, but the fact that this is an organic product is
important to some people. Fans of Chile may also like the Vina Terapaca in this
release. 93 points (oh Mr. Suckling – give it a rest!) and only $17.95.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BRUNEL DE LA GARDINE CROZES-HERMITAGE 2014 148 cases
0f 12 $23.95 – Unfair to compare this to a 2013 Aussie Shiraz, if only
because a 2013 Shiraz is closer to a Northern
Hemisphere 2012 Vintage wine and will be considerably more ready to drink. That
said, Crozes Hermitage wines are age
worthy in the mid term and are well produced. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Gerard Bertrand</span>
LA CLAPE CSM 2011 - $18.95 – Good wine, right in its drinking window now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MAS DES BRESSADES CUVÉE TRADITION 2014 614 cases
0f 12 $16.95 - OK wine for the price.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DAUVERGNE RANVIER GRAND VIN COTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 417 cases
0f 12 $18.95 - A Grenache based wine from a bad year for
Grenache. Might be worth trying one just to see.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOUTH AFRICA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
STELLENRUST TIMELESS 2011 133 cases
0f 12 $19.95 A very good South African Bordeaux blend.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WASHINGTON STATE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
HOGUE GENESIS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 502 cases
0f 12 $18.95 – Well priced, similar in
profile to the Columbia Crest Cabernet. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Italy - VENETO<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ZENATO VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE 2013 1198 cases 0f 12 $17.95 - A W.o.M. and I would describe this as a
solid wine, very serviceable and sure to please a wide variety of palates. Aged for approximately 12 months in barrel.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CORTE MAJOLI RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE 2013 418 cases 0f 12 $19.95
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Italy - CAMPANIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ALOIS CUNTO PALLAGRELLO NERO 2011 - 28 cases 0f 12 $24.95 - An ISD, so few and far between unless you
live in one of the chosen areas. Floral and spicy, expect harsh tannins fronted
by black fruits. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN – BODEGAS LANGA PI 3.1415 CONCEJON - $20.95- Like the
Mencia grape was in Bierzo a few years back, here’s a wine grape that is
unheard of outside of Aragon in Spain. Made from Concejon grapes, this is
something different to try. Fulfills the Vintages responsibility to bring us
‘different’ products, I guess. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE – JEAN-LUC COLOMBO TERRES BRÛLÉES CORNAS SYRAH 2012
ISD 22 cases 0f 6 $72.95 – Cornas is old world
syrah at its finest. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN - TORRES SALMOS 2012 147 cases
0f 6 $30.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
S.A. – BOEKENHOUTSKLOOF THE CHOCOLATE BLOCK 2013 232 cases
0f 12 $39.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ARG. - VILLA DE LOS ENOLOGOS CASTA DE SALVAJES CRONOS MALBEC
208 cases 0f 12 $35.95<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OZ - MOLLYDOOKER TWO LEFT FEET 2014 98 cases
0f 12 $33.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
B.C. - BURROWING OWL SYRAH 2013 166 cases 0f 12 $40.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-8292398863473878702016-03-11T10:12:00.001-05:002016-03-28T11:55:45.345-04:00March 19th Vintages Release notes - Italy and Israel.<div class="MsoNormal">
March 19<sup>th</sup> has almost arrived, (or if you’re
reading this after that date, it’s come and gone), and with it comes a mixed
bag of global wine options. Although Vintages features Italy and Israel this time
around, there is a reasonably good variety of wines and wine origins from which
to choose. I’ll sort them by country this week and highlight my top flight
choices with an asterisk or two.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUCA LABORDE DOUBLE SELECT SYRAH 2013 335 cases of 6 $29.95
– While expensive for an Argentinian Syrah, the Luca line of wines produced by
Laura Catena is always very good. Gets the omnipresent 90+ points from James
Suckling.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ALTA VISTA PREMIUM ESTATE MALBEC 2013 419 cases of 12 $19.95
– OK QPR <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
HOWARD PARK MIAMUP CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 – $22.95 - A
very tasty western Australian Cabernet. Less in your face than some
Southeasterners from Australia.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*MONTGRAS ANTU SYRAH 2014 598 cases of 12 $17.95 – Always
excellent. Best given a bit of time and served with anything red that’s been grilled. Look for hints of vanilla, and lots of
chocolate and black fruits.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MONTGRAS INTRIGA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 199 cases of
12 $22.95 – A close second to the Syrah,
this cabernet from the Maipo Valley should be very good over the next few years
offering currants, mint and hints of loam.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">*Chateau du Cedre
CEDRE Heritage</span> 2012 - $17.95 – Chateau du Cedre is among the better
houses in the Cahors region, producing superb Malbecs. Roger Voss scored this 94 points but suggests
you wait a couple of years to open. If you must open it, decant it early for a
meal of grilled meats.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MIDI<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHÂTEAU DE L'OU INFINIMENT SYRAH 2012 279 cases of 12 $26.95 -100% syrah grapes from the Languedoc.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
**LE GRAVILLAS CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES SÉGURET 2014 698
cases of 12 $16.95 – When you can get a named Village for under $17, even if
the village is not one of the ones regarded as a cru, you should consider it.
This is among the first of the 2014’s to come in. 2014 appears to be regarded
as a good vintage in the South Rhone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NOZZOLE CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2011 1298 cases of 12
$19.95 – Lots of cases so no rush here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*BARONE RICASOLI ROCCA GUICCIARDA RISERVA CHIANTI 799 cases
of 12 $24.95 – Always very good, this wine loves to be paired with braises,
stews, Bolognese sauce – oh hell, any Italian food.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*LA BRACCESCA VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2012 299 cases of
12 $24.95 – From Antinori’s Montepulciano estate. Having tasted through a
number of 2012 Vino Nobiles last fall, I
expect this to be very good. Best given a wee bit of time to allow it to rest,
you can serve over the next 3 years or so with any Tuscan specialty. Perhaps a
big T bone?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*SEÑORÍO DE SOTILLO CRIANZA 2011 599 cases of 12 $19.95 – Dark, but not brooding fruit.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>There are also at
least three wines from the Vintages Essentials that are worth considering this month. Each is on sale
and they are among the better offerings. Look for the Louis Martini 2013
Cabernet, the Wynn’s Coonawarra Cabernet or the Two Hands Gnarly Dudes Shiraz.</i><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MUGA SELECCIÓN ESPECIAL 2010 152 cases of 12 $39.95 – Terrific producer,
classic Spanish style. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THORN-CLARKE WILLIAM RANDELL SHIRAZ 2012 89 cases of 6 $44.95 – Like ‘em big? I mean really big?
Here’s your pick.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
IL MOLINO DI GRACE IL MARGONE GRAN SELEZIONE CHIANTI 2010
149 cases of 12 $39.95 – The top of the
Chianti Classico pyramid from Il Molino di Grace. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ORNELLAIA 2012 199
cases of 6 $195.95 - $200? Fahgedaboudit! Out of my snack bracket.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHÂTEAU MONT-REDON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2011 167 cases of 12 $46.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BARONE RICASOLI CASALFERRO 2011 38 cases of 6 $51.95 – A single varietal
(merlot) from a single vineyard in Gaiole (Chianti). The Baron is renowned for
his quality – curses, two bucks lass and I might spring for one of these.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Donnatella Cinelli Columbini
Brunello di Mantalcino</span> 2008 $44.95 – Never has the value of a vintage
been more obvious than with this wine. The 2010 was available for $58. An older
but much less heralded vintage, this one comes in almost $14 less.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
OLARRA ERUDITO RESERVA ESPECIAL 2009 99 cases of 6 $37.95 – Good, but don’t let the score fool
you and there will not be many of them around.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-83874435642199846042016-02-25T09:23:00.000-05:002016-03-03T13:04:01.405-05:00March 5 Release - Let's just tear out the first half, throw it away and go bargain hunting (relatively speaking) from the rest<div class="MsoNormal">
This release features Californians (mostly from Napa) which I
chose to completely ignore. The sky high prices for these wines make them unfit
for my consumption. I almost had to ignore those in the Brunello feature as
well but having been in Montalcino last summer, I must confess a twinge of fondness and
interest. The price I paid for the Piccolomini Pianrosso single vineyard
offering compared to the price the LCBO is charging for the normale is a like
an ice cold shower. Reality really bites. That said, the March 05 release has
some wines that are worth your consideration.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spain figures prominently in my selections from this release
and with good reason. There are a number of apparently fine wines <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Baron de Ley 2010 Reserva </span>at $21.95</b> One of the WOMs, it’s an ok priced Rioja
that’ll age nicely for years and provide
ample pleasure with food right away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Bordon Rioja Reserva 2009</span></b> $19.95 -Equally
good, with one more year of age on it,
and two fewer dollars expense, this
subtle food wine will not overpower but rather complement your meals.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Jardin de Luculo 2012</span></b> – Are you
looking for something other than Tempranillo? Here’s a well scored Grenache
that will be good for a few years to come.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Descendientes
de J. Palacios Petalos 2013</span></b> - $24.95 - A collaboration of
Alvero Palacios and Ricardo Perez, the
wine is produced using 100% Mencia grapes from the Bierzo region. It is annually a treat both visually
and to your tastebuds. Give it a bit of time or decant.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Sisters Run Cow’s Corner GSM 2014</span></b> $16.95–
So far in 2016 it seems Sister’s Run is this year’s Gerard Bertrand, seemingly
a new offering available in each Vintages release. The GSM is a new one for me
but I’ll try it just because of my fondness for this blend. Think of it as a
slightly expensive Cotes du Rhone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Xavier COTES Du RHONE 2012 -$17.00 – One of
The Food and Drink ‘Specials’-No need to rush for this one. There are almost
3500 cases of it. </span></b>Upper priced for most Cotes du Rhone but from this negociant/ producer it might be a worthwhile selection. If you’re a penny pinching C d R
fan I suggest you look around for some leftover 2013 Domaine le Grand Retour
Plan de Dieu or drop into the Languedoc for some leftover 2012 Chateau des
Aladeres Vielle Vignes. Both were $14.95<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">JOSH Cabernet Sauvignon 2013- $17.00 – </span></b>The
other Food and Drink Special. Seems like a not bad price for a Cali cab from a
good year but I’m not familiar with the producer. 3000 cases minus 1 means
there’ll be lots. If you’re a cab fan, compare it to the Columbia Crest in this
release to see if it’s as good. Reviews do seem OK.<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet
Sauvignon 2012</span></b> - $17.95 – Ready for short term consumption, this is
a solid, well made wine if a little heavy handed with oak sometimes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Castello di Bibbione Chianti Classico Reserva
2010</span></b> - $22.95 – OK priced Chianti from a good vintage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">John X Merriman – Rustenberg</span></b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;"> 2012</span> $24.95 presents a Bordeaux blend from
South Africa that can be enjoyed for the next 5 – 8 years. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Finca el Origin 2013 Malbec</span></b> –
$19.95 – The other WOM will provide a great accompaniment to burgers or
sausages from the grill.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>NK’MIP CELLARS QWAM QWMT 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon</b> - $28.95 -A flashy, fleshy, sophisticated
cabernet from the Southern Okanagan. The native Canadian band’s land may be the
best grape growing soil in the entire valley.
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Pronounced as
follows, (<b>Nk'Mip: in-Ka-meep</b>. <b>QwAM
QwMT</b>: kw-em kw-empt), Winemaker Randy Picton said some years ago, "It
took a leap of faith for the band to use a name that was so hard to
pronounce," but the name honours
both the terrior and the heritage of the band.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s very hard to pass up the Brunelli in the release but
one of my New Year’s resolutions was to hold the line at an absolute max of $50.
So far so good! Let’s start the big buck options with:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>LUCA G LOT Chardonnay
2013</b> $34.95 – OK, let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way
immediately. Yes I am recommending an Argentinian Chardonnay that sells for $35
bucks! Were this a Cali chard of this quality, it’d be at least two or three
times the price. It would be fun to have a Chard-off among this one, something
from Napa, a premiere cru Chablis, the Hamilton Russell and say Norman Hardie’s
or last year’s Closson Chase PEC County chardonnay. After the tasting, enjoy
them all with fresh, pan fried pickerel, bass or even some shrimp on the bar-b.
Life doesn’t get better.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Frescobaldi Castelgiocondo 2010</span></b> $49.95
– Don’t spring for the litre and a half when their 750 ml slides in under the
$50 mark. You‘re better off buying two of them but there is something to be
said for those big bottles! <o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-84672841805527600772016-02-14T07:31:00.000-05:002016-02-14T07:31:27.199-05:00Feb.20 Vintages - Australia takes centre stage<div class="MsoNormal">
Vintages February 20<sup>th</sup> release features Australia
and, while it has some of the same old same olds, it also has some new and
different wines for us. Interesting that the winery occupying half a page in
the Adelaide Hills section is not represented in the release. Odd? Not for the
LCBO. I’m sure whoever took the pic had an enjoyable choco vino tasting at that
winery. And I’m sure the owners of Hahndorf Hill were content not to deal with
the LCBO. Giving the Penfolds mirror almost a quarter of a page baffles me as
well. I cannot imagine a real retailer publishing a retail catalogue and giving
up three quarters of a page to suppliers not even in the catalogue. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another personal opinion is that many of the wine critics’ scores
are somewhat elevated for the wines presented. James Halliday and Campbell
Mattinson are Australian wine writers and are not dissimilar to many of our own
local writers in that respect. Let’s just say they are susceptible to nationalistic
tastebuds, shall we? On the other hand, James Suckling seems more interested in
promoting his wine website - high scores keep his name before the public on
shelf talkers and that drives subscriptions to his site. Keep these facts in
mind and reduce their numerical scores by 2 to 5 points and you will get a
better idea of what to expect in the bottles. On to the picks!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Twelftree Greenock
Ebenezer Grenache Mataro</span> 2012 – $23.95- 399 cases of 6 - Expect a sleek
OZ take on the Southern Rhone stalwart. Twelftree Wines, from Michael Twelftree
of Two Hands fame, is a limited collection of Grenache based wines. They’ve
been sourced from vineyard sites to present the best of what both the grapes
and sites have to offer. Here the Grenache is from near Moppa Springs and the
Mourvedre (Mataro in Oz) is from a vineyard near the village of Ebenezer in the
Barossa Valley. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">3 Rings Shiraz</span>
2013- $18.95 – 888 cases of 12 and as the label says, “It’s magic”. And not
badly priced either.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Xanadu Cabernet
Sauvignon</span> 2012 - $29.95 – 199 cases of 12 in the release. A winner of
the Cabernet Trophy as the best cab in the national wine show in Oz. From the
Margaret River area, expect more Bordeaux influences than those exhibited by
the Katnook below. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Katnook Estate
Cabernet Sauvignon</span> 2012 -$29.95 –332 cases of 6 - A wonderful cabernet
from the Coonawarra region, expect black fruit and hints of eucalyptus. Great
with lamb and historically 91- 92 points in my book.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Jip JIP Rocks Shiraz</span>
2013 - $16.95 – 998 cases of 12 of this well priced, solid wine for BBQs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Penny’s Hill Cracking
Black Shiraz</span> 2013 -$21.95 – 503 cases of 12 Big, rich, dark wine from
the McLaren Vale.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">D’Arenberg The
Custodian Grenache</span> 2012 - $19.95 – 998 cases of this good sub $20 wine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also in the release is ‘<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Fields of Joy’</span></b> from the Two Hands
Picture Series. While the Picture Series identifies the entry level wines in
the Two Hands portfolio it does not represent a reduction in quality. ‘FoJ’ is
from grapes grown in the Clare Valley region and as Michael Twelftree described
an earlier vintage “…<i><span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">Clare Valley is easily one of the most soft and
elegant regions I work with in Australia. The wines have a lifted aromatic
profile and a very tight and slightly lean palate that is … caressing and
silky, I always love Clare for its feminine nature.” <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">LaPosta Armando
Bonarda</span> 2014 $14.95 647 cases- of 12 – Fruity, but balanced. If you’re
looking for something different you might want to give this a try.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Gadais Muscadet Sevre
& Maine</span> – 2013- $15.95 – Feeling like a white? There’ll be 504 cases
of this somewhat underappreciated wine from the Loire. Made from
the Melon de Borgogne grape and right in its drinking window.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Muriel Gran Reserva </span>2005-
$28.95 –898 cases- Looking for an older wine? This has 10 and a half years on
it but is still going strong. Ready to serve immediately with charcuterie, tapas
or anything grilled or roasted. The 2008 Muriel Reserva was excellent and I
expect nothing less from its older, bigger brother (the 2005). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Glaetzer Bishop
Shiraz</span> 2013 – $40.00- 255 cases of 6 - I had a previous vintage of this
alongside Glaetzer’s Amon Ra and there was little, if anything to choose
between the two. Super wine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Raymond Usseglio
Cuvee Imperiale Chateauneuf du Pape</span> 2012 – $57.95 - 120 cases and superb,
from vines over 100 years old. In 2010 this cuvee flirted with 100 points. If
you can afford it, this might be worth wrestling for.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-33496813877163061282016-01-27T11:59:00.000-05:002016-02-04T15:10:55.590-05:00Feb.06 - Southern France and South Africa<div class="MsoNormal">
Yee gods, seems like yesterday we were celebrating the New
Year and already another month is gone! The first release of February brings us
2 features – Southern France and South Africa. Both are somewhat
underappreciated regions which should be a good thing for your wallet. If the
Vintages buyers are on the ball we should have some tasty well priced
bargains. Key word in both these
statements is ‘should’. Here we go.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WHITES<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LOIRE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PIERRE-LUC BOUCHAUD MUSCADET SÈVRE ET MAINE 2014 336 cases
of 12 $14.95 – At a tasting last year I was sure this was a far more expensive white
Burgundy. Shame on me! It turned out to be a Loire Muscadet Sèvre et Maine produced
from 100% melon de bourgogne grapes. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking
for a well priced daily drinker to replace more expensive chardonnays. Terrific
on its own or with some grilled shrimp, and even better with fresh water
pickerel or bass. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOUTH AFRICA - Whites<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
KEN FORRESTER OLD VINE RESERVE CHENIN BLANC 2015 300 cases
of 12 $17.95 – Good, new world, chenin blanc. (There’s a Cali alternative for
$1 more that you also might want to try this week).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOUTH AFRICA - REDS <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Three Cabs/ Bordeaux blends from South Africa. All are very
good.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RUPERT & ROTHSCHILD CLASSIQUE 2012 A 12 503 cases of 12
$22.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RUSTENBERG RM NICHOLSON 2013 299 cases of 12 $19.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GRAHAM BECK THE GAME RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 250 cases of 12 $18.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MIDI <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CAVE DE ROQUEBRUN LA GRANGE DES COMBES SAINT-CHINIAN 277 cases of 12 $18.95 – Consistent,
quality wine. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
HECHT & BANNIER
MINERVOIS 2013 279 cases of 12 $19.95
I tend to think of Minervois reds as the equivalents of a lower cru Cotes du Rhone
Villages. H and B are excellent producers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FONCALIEU RÉSERVE DU CROUZAU ST. GERVAIS CÔTES DU RHONE
VILLAGES 2012- 599 cases of 12 $16.95 –
From the named village of St. Gervais, this is a well priced option and from a
better year for Grenache (better than 2013 for sure) in the Southern Rhone<b>.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE ST-JEAN VACQUEYRAS 2012 300 cases of
12 $24.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GREECE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BOUTARI NAOUSSA XINOMAVRO 2013 450 cases of 12 $13.95 –
Grill something to accompany this well priced quality wine and be comfortable
serving your guests xinomavro instead of Cab Sauv, Malbec or Shiraz. Roughly
translated to acid black, that about sums this one up. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">SISTERS RUN CALVARY HILL SHIRAZ</span> 2013 - $15.95 – Well made, slightly less ostentatious (that is to say, fewer medals on the bottle) shiraz.<br />
THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER 2014 1063 cases of 12 $17.95 – Festooned with enough
medals to sink a super freighter, this wine is a good if somewhat old school
shiraz.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CASTELLI DEL GREVEPESA CLEMENTE VII CHIANTI CLASSICO 2010 599 cases of 12 $20.95 - 2010 was a wonderful year in Tuscany, and
this should be in its prime.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WASHINGTON STATE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
COLUMBIA CREST H3 LES CHEVAUX RED BLEND 2012 335 cases
of 12 $19.95 - A
crowd pleasing blend for parties
and BBQs. I’ve found the Columbia Crest wines a little heavy on the oak lately
but YMMV. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="text-transform: uppercase;">4 Bubblies</span> for Valentine’s Day from
well known producers<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GÉRARD BERTRAND CUVÉE THOMAS JEFFERSON BRUT CRÉMANT DE
LIMOUX 2014 499 cases of 6 $19.95 –
Something a little different from Gerard Bertrand. Could be time for a Cremant
fest! This nice blend of Chenin and Chard is perfect to say Cheers while
playing Ch-Ch-Changes at your next Bowie themed house party.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NINO FRANCO BRUT VALDOBBIADENE PROSECCO SUPERIORE 400 cases
of 12 $21.95 - Worth searching out.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PIERRE SPARR BRUT ROSÉ CRÉMANT D'ALSACE 330 cases of 12 $18.95
- Well known Alsace producer, high quality in both still and sparklers. Butted up
against Germany and Switzerland, Alsace produces some terrific cool climate
wines.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOUTH AFRICA - GRAHAM BECK BRUT ROSÉ 499 cases
of 6 $19.95 – One more well known producer, this time from South Africa.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>BIG BUCKS and
‘EXCLUSIVES’<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ROCCA DELLE MACÌE RISERVA DI FIZZANO SINGLE VINEYARD 2<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">011</span> 117 cases of 12 $32.95 – This single vineyard
wine meets all the requirements to be a Gran Selezione and should be terrific.
Not necessarily a contemplation (or is that meditation?) wine, this’ll be
wonderful with any Tuscan cuisine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Secret des Schistes</span>
2011 – This wine, made from 100% syrah grapes, gets a wonderful score from Jeb
Dunnuck. Does it live up to it? Maybe, but the wine is new to me and with
Crozes Hermitages and St. Joseph’s available for less, I'll have a hard time
spending this much. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BURROWING OWL MERLOT 2012 167 cases of 12 $39.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SAN GIACOMO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 111 cases of 12 $49.95 – Well scored by all, and from the
2010 vintage (broken record time, I know!) this’ll be ready now with a good
decant but superb in a couple of years. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHÂTEAU LA NERTHE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2012 99 cases of 12 $49.95 – Expensive for the
quality you’ll get. It’s tough to decide if you should spend the $50 on a
Brunello instead. <o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-58886292195502925142016-01-18T09:39:00.000-05:002016-01-18T09:39:04.615-05:00January 23rd - Argentina, Chile and Portugal<div class="MsoNormal">
This week we get the featured Argentina + Chile and Portugal backs them up. It’s another yawner but there appear to be a few more QPR
bargains this time than in the year’s first one - the supposed ‘smart shopper’
release. This one also has a few intermediate priced wines ($18 – $30) worthy
of consideration. Don’t overthink them though
and my recommendation is, should you see some leftovers that you really enjoyed
from past releases, don’t hesitate to spring for the known entities.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From a release perspective, let’s just say if the LCBO was
the Leafs, they’d be on at least a two game losing streak. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ARGENTINA and CHILE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CONO SUR SINGLE VINEYARD EL RECURSO BLOCK 18 CABERNET 2014 349
cases of 12 - $18.95 – From a single vineyard in the Maipo valley, expect some black
fruit and green aromas and flavours, hints of mint, loam and currants.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TONELES TONEL 22 2013 - $17.95 – A well scored Malbec but it
is new to me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Trapiche Broquel
Bonarda</span> 2013 - $14.95 – A lesser known and not widely imported wine,
Bonarda is worth trying. Also known as Charbono (in the U.S.) and Douce Noir or
Corbeau (in France). The price is right for
this example and the producer superior. Fruit forward and not too tannic but
requires a long growing season to fully ripen. In a poor year expect green,
vegetal flavours.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SANTA ALICIA GRAN RESERVA CAB SAUV 2011 - $15.95 – Right in
its drinking window. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Concha</span> Y TORO
Carmenere 2013 $19.95 – Serve up this Chilean wine with smoky BBQ’d beef. Not
Cab Franc, not Cab Sauv, nor Merlot but hints of each.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TERRAZAS DE LOS ANDES RESERVA MALBEC 2013 613 cases
of 12 $18.95 – Lamb or beef Burgers? Nice pairing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
HUGH HAMILTON JIM JIM
THE DOWN-UNDERDOG SHIRAZ 2013 829 cases
of 12 $15.95 – Very solid Aussie product.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WAKEFIELD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 2111 cases
of 12 $17.95 – There is a reason that the LCBO bought so many bottles. It is
always solid for the price. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SHINGLEBACK DAVEY ESTATE SHIRAZ 2012 223 cases of 12 $23.95 Expensive for the release but perhaps worth
it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LA FERME DU MONT
PREMIÈRE CÔTE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2013 1007 cases of 12 $15.95 – A CdR that will be
fine to serve on any occasion or with any meat from roast chicken to lamb to
beef to pork. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LES AMOURIERS SIGNATURE VACQUEYRAS 2012 239 cases
of 12 $26.95 – A better vintage than 2013, worth opening the wallet for one or
two. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
E. GUIGAL CROZES-HERMITAGE 2012 199 cases of 12 $28.95 - A nice syrah from the Rhone’s best known negotiant, this’ll be good now and
provide pleasure to come. Save it for a rack of lamb. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CARPINETO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2010 249 cases
of 12 $29.95 Also expensive for this release but from a superior vintage. Worth
trying one or two and this one should be ready to drink but also hold if you
wish.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BASCIANO CHIANTI RUFINA 2012 $15.95 A
food wine to be sure but well priced and I expect a fuller, darker wine than
most regular (non Classico) Chiantis. Try with bison or wild boar ragu and
pasta. Ok, substitute lamb or pork if you wish.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CALIFORNIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LANDER-JENKINS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 899 cases of 12
$18.95 – New to me. This could be a pleasant surprise for its price. For those
familiar with ‘The Show’, think of it as that wine without the marketing. Nothing too sophisticated but I expect it’ll
fit well round a BBQ later in the spring. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER'S RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 499 cases
of 12 $22.95 Solid. Will never have you saying “Wow, what’s that?” but also
will never have you saying “Ewwww, what’s that?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FATTORIA DEI BARBI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 223 cases of 12 $49.95 – If decanted for an
hour or three this one is usually ready to drink. Trying not to sound like a
broken record, this is from what is considered a great vintage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-34698253073020464822015-12-30T10:08:00.002-05:002016-01-07T10:48:25.460-05:00Jan. 09 Vintages release - Here we go again!<div class="MsoNormal">
Let's start the year with a question. Why can't you find the Vintages delistings anywhere on the Vintages (or LCBO) websites? I bought a Cornas that was $11 off the posted price but I had to ask for a price check and not even the Vintages consultant knew about it! I found the info on a wine forum and have no idea of how long it had been at that new pricepoint. LCBO, you work for me, so tell me these things!!!!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first release of the year should allow your wallet to
recover from the voracious Vintages attacks of the last few months. I say
should but remember, we’re dealing with the LCBO here. In their inimitable
wisdom they have started the year with a feature called “How to Be a SMART Shopper”
like they’re our best friend and have
our interests at heart. But at the same
time they charge us exorbitant markups and provide limited selections and availabilities.
New year….same old transparently obvious
LCBO.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While there might be
one or two ageworthy choices available in this release, they are outnumbered by
the simple quaffers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOUTH AFRICA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MULDERBOSCH CHENIN BLANC 2015 S 12 335 $14.95 Distinctive
label, nice with oysters especially, but any seafood or fish will suffice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RED TABLE WINE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHILE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Santa Rita Medalla
Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon</span> 2011 - 699 cases of 12 $17.95 - Best QPR Cab in the release but you're better served to grab the '12 CARMEN Gran Reserva from the general list.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DOMAINE LE GRAND RETOUR PLAN DE DIEU CÔTES DU RHÔNE Villages
2013- 1299 cases of 12 $14.95 – Not a
great vintage for Grenache so try one to confirm it’s as good as last year’s
(which by the way was a terrific value) then consider buying a case. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DOMAINE SAINT-ROCH VACQUEYRAS 2014 490 cases of 12 $21.95 Well
priced for a Vacqueyras.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ITALY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PUGLIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ANTICO SIGILLO PRIMITIVO DI MANDURIA 2013 1040 cases
of 12 $19.95 - Expensive for a primitivo
from Puglia, especially when bought in these quantities. Should be a great
pizza or burger wine though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIBI GRAETZ CASAMATTA SANGIOVESE 700 cases of 12 $14.95 - This is a blend of current and previous vintages, ready to drink
alongside pizza or a homemade spaghetti and meatball supper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OZ<br />
SISTERS RUN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 $15.95 - Always well priced and well valued. Meatloaf or burgers or sausage pizza.<br />
CALIFORNIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GUNDLACH BUNDSCHU MOUNTAIN CUVÉE 2012 799 cases
of 12 $19.95 – Parker calls it a Rhone look alike but I think it’s closer to the
kind of blend you’d find from areas of the Midi. I will try one just because I like
the winery for their sense of humour. You can spend time on their website and
smile often. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FIRST PRESS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2011 1287 cases of 12 $22.95 –
Napa Cab, ok price. Not a great vintage so I don’t know why the LCBO bought so
many bottles when both the ’12 and ’13 are available. Industrial wine,
unaffected by vintage quality, I suppose.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WASHINGTON STATE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
POWERS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 223 cases
of 12 $22.95 The truth is I haven’t heard
of this winery before. Although it is OK to be labelled as a Cab Sauv it is
actually 88% Cab Sauv, 4 % Merlot, 4% Cab Franc, 2% Syrah and 2% Malbec. But
wait, it gets better. These grapes are sourced from 7 different vineyards.
Worth trying one if only for the wine tour of Washington State.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Big Bucks</span> – After
the last couple of months these don’t seem all that big – but the reality is you
get what you pay for.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LA PIEVE BAROLO 2011 $34.95
– Not a great vintage or producer but it’s well priced for a Barolo and is a
good starting point. Give it a year or so in a cool dark place.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">BAnfi Brunello</span>
but only if it’s a 2010. <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">After the 4<sup>th</sup>
of January</span> this one’ll be 5 bucks off. If you can find one 2010, buy one
and lay it down for 5 years minimum.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-28235088844855563822015-12-03T08:41:00.000-05:002015-12-10T13:31:42.970-05:00December 12th Vintages - Another year has come and gone<div class="MsoNormal">
The December 12, 2015 release is the last of the year. As I
look back on my summaries and notes for the year, what a boring, bland one it
has been for Vintages. Ah well, we can hope for better things to come in 2016. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two picks this week are the result of me letting my eyes
overrule my nose and palate. The pair of La Posta malbecs have terrific new
labels designed by Jose Canales. To my eye they more than do their job – they provide
an eye catching, traditional yet modern invitation to the wine. Their styling
is almost Spanish Rioja (or very old school Barolo) meets neon meets modern. If
you’re a fan of the Catena malbecs it is also worth noting that both these
wines are produced in collaboration with Laura Catena and winemaker Estella
Perinetti.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ARGENTINA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LA POSTA PIZZELLA MALBEC 2014 934 cases of 12 $16.95 – From the Pizzella
family’s vineyard in the renowned La Consulta region of the Uco valley. Given a
bit of time it’ll be a good accompaniment to any rich meal, from rare beef all
the way to a cassoulet. Drink 1-3
years.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LA POSTA ANGEL PAULUCCI VINEYARD MALBEC 2014 923 cases
of 12 $15.95 – From Angel Paulucci’s vineyard in the Ugarteche subregion of
Luyan de Cuyo. As a food pairing the producer recommends it with anything from
grilled meats to a wild boar, sage and dried cherry risotto. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SALENTEIN RESERVE MALBEC 2013 847 cases of 12 $17.95 – Any of the three
Malbecs will be good choices. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
D'ARENBERG D'ARRY'S ORIGINAL SHIRAZ/GRENACHE 2012 511 cases of 12 $19.95 – Southern Rhone blend
from Australia.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PIRRAMIMMA WHITE LABEL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 700 cases of
12 $23.95 – Always a terrific wine from one of my favourite producers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHILE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 550 cases
of 12 $17.95 – Not a bad cab for the $$’s. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FRANCE - MIDI<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GÉRARD BERTRAND GRAND TERROIR PIC SAINT LOUP 2011 697 cases
of 12 $18.95 – This month’s release from the seemingly ubiquitous Mr. Bertrand presents
more of the goodness of the Midi.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MAZZEI CASTELLO DI FONTERUTOLI SER LAPO RISERVA 2011 - 994 cases
of 6 $23.95 – My number 1 pick, this is a rerelease of the 2011
that we saw last April. And that is my only concern about this Ser Lapo.
Otherwise, it’s always very good. Darker and more brooding than some CCR’s but
with a few years on it this is just coming into its own. It will provide years
of pleasure. Galloni’s review says to hold it for another couple of years but my
palate says it’s ready to go right now. Last weekend’s bottle was superb and worthy
of the score.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CASTELLO DI FONTERUTOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2013 179 cases of
12 $13.95 – The bargain priced little brother to the Ser Lapo. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BORSAO TRES PICOS GARNACHA 2013 964 cases of 12 $19.95 –
Formerly a favourite of mine but the last few bottles were, to my palate, too
oaky. This in spite of Parker’s review indicating the wine was aged in older
French oak barrels and stainless steel.
The wine was very well made but just not exactly to my taste anymore.
It’s a buy for most though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
VINA POMAL RESERVA 2010 - $21.95 – Well scored by both
Decanter and Wine Spectator, this is my Tempranillo of the month. Same price as
the W o M but a better wine I think.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RODRIGUEZ SANZO LACRIMUS CRIANZA 2011 699 cases of 12 $18.95
– Previous vintages of this Tempranillo have been terrific so let’s take a
chance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BALBÁS CRIANZA 2011 799 cases of 12 $18.95 – Another well
priced Tempranillo that is consistently good.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
USA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE INDIAN WELLS RED BLEND 2012 335 cases
of 12 $25.95 _ The Indian Wells Cab
seems to have flown under the radar – good news for me – perhaps the same’ll
happen here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
IRONY SMALL LOT RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2011 2067 cases
of 12 $21.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RODNEY STRONG CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 1115 cases of 12 $22.95
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPARKLING WINE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GIUSTI BRUT ASOLO PROSECCO 279 cases of 12 $19.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LOUIS BOUILLOT PERLE D'IVOIRE BRUT BLANC DE BLANCS 648 cases
of 12 $19.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CAVE DE BEBLENHEIM BRUT ROSÉ CRÉMANT D'ALSACE cases of 12 548
$18.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OYSTER BAY SPARKLING CUVÉE ROSÉ 547 cases of 6 $21.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS- being the time of year it is, the Big Bucks
choices are plentiful.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUCA MALBEC 2012 499 cases of 6 $32.95 – A big inky wine
just made for a very rare steak. Also, this is the appropriate bottle to arm
yourself with if you’re going to get into a bar fight. To call it substantial
is an understatement. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BAROSSA VALLEY ESTATE EBENEZER SHIRAZ 2008 480 cases
of 6 $39.95 – Lamb chops anyone? Chewy wine, decant carefully. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUCE DELLA VITE LA VITE LUCENTE 2013 299 cases of 12 $34.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LAN GRAN RESERVA 2007 360 cases of 12 $31.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BURROWING OWL ATHENE 2012
112 cases of 12 $44.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TENUTA SAN GUIDO GUIDALBERTO 2013 198 cases of 6 $52.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
MONTES PURPLE ANGEL 2012 498 cases of 6 $59.95 – Carmine,
crimson, claret coloured, Carmenere for the LCBO alliteration fans. This is
among the best Carmeneres made. A little Petit Verdot in the blend gives it
some more licorice notes than your usual Carmenere. It’s a beaut but too many bucks.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-45562828840705071182015-11-18T09:50:00.000-05:002015-11-18T09:50:17.935-05:00November 28 Vintages Release - A Mixed Bag for Christmas and New Year<div class="MsoNormal">
This release is called Holiday Finery so the price tags on
the big dollar purchases continue to mount. Once again this week the product
consultants are also quoted. I thought I might interject into product
consultant Voula’s thought on page 11 “Explore the world with our vast top
quality product selection. Re-explore countries you’ve visited and realize…
that wine you bought in a retail wine shop for 23 Euros is selling at the LCBO
for over $100!” Oh and Merry Christmas!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In spite of the big $’s theme of the release there are some OK
sub $20 and sub $30 wines available this week. Sorted by country, I have <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">capitalized</span> the ones that have an
inside track to my table.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Two Bubblies</span> –
ignore the big $’s champers and go for the Bailly Lapierre Reserve Brut Cremant
de Bourgogne and the Salatin Millesimato Extra Dry Prosecco di Valdobbiadene
2013. You can celebrate as though they were champagnes and after half a glass no
one will be any the wiser.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Lapostolle Canto de
Apalta 2012 - $19.95 – </span>Carmenere takes the lead in this blend but try
not to hold that against it. Look for all the best of each ripe grape from a
hot Chilean vintage - Carmenere supported by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Might be the buy of the release. <span style="text-transform: uppercase;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Columbia Crest Grand
Estates Merlot </span>2012 - $17.95 –Always lots of oak and black fruits with enough tannins to go nicely with food. Almost
on par with the H3 Cab which happens to be on sale at this time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Clos de Los Siete</span>
2012- $23.95 – The vines continue to mature in this new world styled Bordeaux
blend from Michel Rolland. The older the vines get the better this wine is
becoming and it has always been good.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Susana Balboa Signature Malbec 2013 – At $19.95 this is a
good buy to accompany rare roast beef or grilled steaks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chapel Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 - $26.95 – Always a very
nice cab from the McLaren Vale. Plenty to like here (but probably not 94
points).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Dandelion Vineyards
Lioness of the McLaren vale</span> 2013 - $19.95 – Festooned with enough medals
to be confused with the 2000 vintage Thorpedo, this is an always big and bold
red from Oz. If you like ‘em large, this is for you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nederberg Manor House Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 – $16.95 -
This South African bargain while not a standout in any one area, does
everything well for the price.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
KWV The Mentors Shiraz 2012 - $29.95 – an excellent shiraz,
give it a few months in a cool dark place. It will really come around.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Chateau Maris Las
Combes Minervois La Liviniere</span> 2011 – $25.95 – A Chateau Maris sighting
is a pretty rare thing in Ontario but is among the very best producers in the Midi.
Think of this excellent Minervois as a named ‘Villages’ quality wine from the
Southern Rhone. Made from 100% Grenache.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">M. Chapoutier Les
Vignes de Bila Haut CoTes du Roussillon Villages</span> 2014 - $15.95 – a buy from the Midi holdings of the well known
Rhone expert Michel Chapoutier. Ready to
drink right now but this can also use a bit of bottle time to develop and mature.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Domaine de Vitalis
Cairanne</span> 2013 –$16.95 - From a named village among the Cotes du Rhone
Villages, this should be good for immediate consumption or short term age.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Casa Castillo El
Molar</span> 2013 - $17.95 – Terrific review for an under $18 wine. I might sink
my teeth into one or two (did you see what I did there?).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Castano Solanera 2013 - $16.95 – Another Spanish bargain
from old vines. Give it a bit of time to settle down then drink over the short
term. I popped and poured a 2012 recently and it was very difficult to say
whether I really liked it. I liked it…just not sure I really liked it. It was a
busy wine to be sure. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Nothing over $50 GETS
mentioned. I’m becoming more stringent with my limits.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 – $46.95 - Superior
cabernet from Argentina. Brown bag it and you’d think $100 Napa, minimum.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elderton Ode to Lorraine 2012 - $39.95 – A few years back
this made the WS Top 100. Last year I had one (2010, I think) and it was
shocking - It looked like a Pinot Noir in the glass. I’m really not sure what
to expect – big, dark and unctuous or a repeat of this previous disappointment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Burrowing Owl Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 – Closer in price to
what it should be - it’s still only $35 from the winery but a good wine if you
can keep your hands off it for a few years.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stags Leap Petit Sirah 2012 - $39.95 - Similar to what the
Ode to Lorraine used to be (and might be again) this should be a very
expressive, black coloured wine rich with floral scents and dark fruit.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-27619612285162270342015-11-09T09:02:00.001-05:002015-11-09T09:02:51.644-05:00Mid November's Vintages release - Yawn....<div class="MsoNormal">
For this week, which is normally one of the better ones of
the year for wine consumers who live in Ontario, there are lots of average
wines with a few slightly better than that tossed in. The QPR of the recent Oct.31
Vintages release highlights the inferiority of this one - unless you were born
with a silver spoon in your mouth. I wasn’t, so haven’t even bothered to review many
of the big ticket wines in this release. But speaking
of silver, there is a silver lining to this gray cloud of mediocrity. Knowing
how pedestrian this release is allows us to contemplate and perhaps revisit
favourites that are still available from previous releases. Or perhaps just find a good reason to take a visit to Quebec.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
This week the second feature is 1.5L
bottles of wine. When a ‘big bottle’ is
the LCBO’s sole differentiator to sell a wine, you know someone has really
taken the easy way out.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE PICKS (but none overwhelm me)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHÂTEAU DE NAGES
VIEILLES VIGNES COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES 2012 - 901 cases of 12 $19.95 – Gassier is a very good producer and
this is a consistent wine with high levels of fruit, terrior and tannin. Great
with game meats and stews. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA – As always, please take James Halliday’s scores
with a grain of salt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PIRRAMIMMA WHITE
LABEL SHIRAZ 2013 493 cases of 12
$24.95 – A perennial pick. McLaren Vale fruit, this is big but not overwhelming
and is an excellent example of what Oz wines can offer. Tasted over time it’ll
evolve nicely with air. Black cherry flavours will evolve to chocolate covered
strawberries and on to mocha espresso aromas. Excellent with a thought
provoking author or a rack of lamb.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ZONTE'S FOOTSTEP CHOCOLATE FACTORY SHIRAZ 2013 999 cases of 12 $17.95 By its name you can
guess what to expect from this well priced Aussie. While it has won gold medals
at four different international wine competitions, this isn’t as good as
Halliday’s score indicates. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
D'ARENBERG THE HIGH TRELLIS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 447 cases of 12 $19.95- Solid, Well priced
cab from D’Arenberg. Not as ageworthy as their Coppermine Road but also about
two fifths the price. <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">The Wakefield cab</span>
in this release is also worthy of consideration.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MIDI<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GÉRARD BERTRAND FITOU
2011 808 cases of 12 $16.95 - The Fitou
appellation in the Languedoc region
produces wines very similar to those from Corbieres. If you happen to be in
France, just be sure which one you are in before you say the other is superior.
Carignan, Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah are the grapes blended in specified
percentages. Actually, both wines from Fitou in the release should be good.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Palacio de Sada
Crianza</span> 2011 - $16.95 – Another Decanter
95 pointer from Spain but this Grenache is new to me. The review reads as
though it’ll be a wine to be enjoyed while serenely and thoughtfully
contemplating what the world has to offer (an early blizzard rather than an
outdoor bbq perhaps?). We shall see.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CONVENTO SAN FRANCISCO CRIANZA 2009 - $19.95 for this WoM seems
OK. Not a palate coater by any stretch
but a nice food wine. Oaky, I dare say.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As an aside, I think the other wine of the month (Decoy) is
overpriced. If you can find the 2012 Beringer that is reduced in price it’s a
better wine in my opinion. Also, Vintages website says the price for the
Beringer is currently $39.95. The online version of the Vintages catalogue for
11/14 says it’ll be $32.95 on sale.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GIACOMO MORI CHIANTI 2012 500 cases of 12 $19.95 – A solid review from Galloni leads me
to expect a chianti well suited to accompany a traditional meat based Italian
meal. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
IL MOLINO DI GRACE RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2008 799 cases
of 12 $23.95 – A very solid food wine that is ready to drink now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BOTTLES<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SANTA CAROLINA RESERVA DE FAMILIA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2008 - 93
cases of 6 $37.95 This is a 1.5 litre
bottle of the always good Cabernet. Ready to rock and roll with 7 years age on
it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TENUTE SILVIO NARDI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 798 cases of 12 $41.95
- This winery is run by Emilia Nardi, granddaughter of the founder. She
is also the winemaker and has developed a wine that presents the terroir of the
locale very well. Black cherry, some anise, and an herby undertone are present.
Suckling’s review (95 points) may be over the top for this elegant
sophisticated wine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ST. HALLETT BLACKWELL SHIRAZ 2012 237 cases of 6 $39.95 – Bigger brother of St. Hallet’s oft
excellent Faith, this is a massive wine, not dissimilar to Ebenezer or
Elderton’s upper midpriced Shiraz. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
JOHN GLAETZER JOHN'S BLEND MARGARETE'S SHIRAZ 2010 239 cases
of 6 $39.95 – A toss up between this
and St. Hallett. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BANFI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 499 cases
of 12 $54.95 - Also from the exceptional 2010 vintage, this
should be very nice indeed. Keep in mind
Suckling’s score is 2 to 5 points higher than other reviewers. I think I’d save 9 bucks and buy the Castello
di Ama Chianti Classico Gran Selezione from a few releases ago before buying
this.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
POGGIO VERRANO DRÒMOS 2005 298 cases
of 6 $39.95 – The same vintage was
available 4 years ago in Quebec for $32.50. Expect cedar, black fruit and some
mint notes. Serve with rack of lamb. Right in its drinking window now, do
expect some dried rather than completely fresh fruits on the palate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MARCHESE ANTINORI CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2012 150 cases
of 12 $32.95 Too expensive. If you want a chianti this’ll be good but stick
with the sub $25 options. Should be $29.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
GORDON ESTATE SYRAH 2012
112 cases of 12 $32.95 - Too expensive. Just creeps into big buck territory which is
too bad for it because it’s good but it shouldn’t be this pricey. Should be
$27.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-9280191255566181932015-10-22T10:01:00.000-04:002015-11-03T09:43:03.370-05:00October 31 - Tuscany and Chile in a very good release but why, oh why?<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s a Tuscan release so let us commence with a Tuscan wine
question. “Why is the Pian delle Vigne 2010 a full $16 more expensive here than
in Quebec?” I’ll await your response
Shari Mogk-Edwards but I won’t hold my breath. That question asked, I now have
to take my hat off to the Vintages team for this release. As you can tell from
my notes below, this has something for everyone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chile plays second fiddle in this release and while it is overshadowed
by the bold Italians there are some worthy options.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Picks</span>
– Four that look excellent, two under $20 and two under $25.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BORGO SCOPETO BORGONERO 2011 998 cases
of 12 $19.95 – The Borgo Scopeto Chianti was a beaut
and Yes, I should have bought more! I
expect more of the same with this well priced Tuscan/ Bordeaux blend. It might
need some time to get settled so don’t rush to serve it but the big number and
great price will have this one blowing out the door so do rush to buy it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Frescobaldi CAMPO AI
SASSI Rosso di Montalcino </span>2013 - $21.95 – While this 2013 might be good
to age, it should also be ready for immediate consumption. Planted in the
southern half of the Castelgiocondo estate below Montalcino and aged for 12
months in Slavonian oak, this was unanimously given 95 by the Decanter tasting
panel.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CASTELLI DEL GREVEPESA CLEMENTE VII CHIANTI CLASSICO 2011 3498 cases
of 12 $17.00 -
Another of the Food and Drink specials (or is that F and D specials, or maybe
F’n D specials) , this garnered a 92 point score from Wine Spectator but be
careful to read the review. This is an old school chianti, so give it time and
food. It does not seem to be as universally well liked among the wine
cognoscenti. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CAFAGGIO CORTACCIO 2006
344 cases of 12 $24.95 – A 100%
Cabernet Sauv wine from a terrific Tuscan vintage. Now with almost 9 years on
it this one is ready for immediate consumption and I don’t expect it to get
better (I like my wines to exhibit some fresh as opposed to all dried fruit characteristics).
Are you ready for a Florentine steak hot off the grill?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OTHER PICKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My first four picks outside Tuscany in the $15 -$30 range
are the CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE INDIAN WELLS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 279 cases of 12 at $26.95 will be spicy and
tasty with cloves and vanilla supporting the black currant fruit. Next is the CONCHA Y TORO TERRUNYO ANDES
PIRQUE VINEYARD CABERNET. In the medium term this’ll be as good as their
flagship Don Melchor. A bold statement but I really like this wine. Look for
the traditional Chilean profile of black currant, loam, just a hint of green
and mint and a long, full finish. Decant and serve with a rare roast of beef. 995
cases of 6 at $29.95. Third pick is the
Spanish MURIEL RESERVA VENDIMIA SELECCIONADA 2008. At $18.95 and with food this is among the
better QPR reds I’ve had in the last year or so. Last option is the SYRAH from
MONTES ALPHA. I find the wines from this producer lean more towards OZ than
Europe so this’ll be a pleasant softer mouthful. 650 or so cases of 12. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BACK to TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
POLIZIANO VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2012 298 cases
of 12 $29.95 – Having visited Poliziano
I have to recommend this wine for no other reason than the professionalism of
their staff. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TENUTA SAN GUIDO LE DIFESE 2013 644 cases of 6 $29.95
- The Third wine to Sassicaia and
Guidalberto, this is made from younger estate vines. Expensive but … <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LE VOLTE DELL'ORNELLAIA 2013 495 cases of 12 $29.95 – The third wine of the Ornellaia
estate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RUFFINO MODUS 2011 676 cases of 12 $29.95 - James Suckling is a huge fan of this wine.
Me? I like it but I think there are many better places to spend your money in
this release.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MURIEL RESERVA
VENDIMIA SELECCIONADA 2008 997 cases of
12 $18.95 As mentioned above in my non Tuscan picks. Keep in mind this was in Decanter’s Top 10 Wines of 2013 but is the third
release of this vintage and wine by the Vintages team. Now, that said I always worry about rereleases so you can
bet I’m really worried about this rererelease! It might have been nice for the
LCBO to throw us a bone and make this one of the Food and Drink specials but
that was just too much to hope for.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BARÓN DE LEY RESERVA 2010
596 cases of 12 $19.95 – The
second of a couple of well priced and terrific
Spanish wines in this release. You better like oak for this one and do
open well before serving with food. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WOLF BLASS GOLD LABEL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 996 cases of 6 $23.95 – Another really solid new world
Cabernet. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE<span style="background: white; color: #6d6e71; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LAVAU VACQUEYRAS 2012
358 cases of 12 $24.95 – Lavau is a solid if not spectacular producer
and you know I like wines from vineyards in the region of this Village.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
UNDER $17<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For you bargain hunters, there are a few goodies that just
squeak under the $17 mark. Three from Argentina, the two CRIOS offerings – a
Malbec and a red Blend should be very nice as well as the FAMIGLIA BIANCHI CABERNET SAUVIGNON
2013 599 cases of 12 $17.95 Any of these will be solid, great for
a Christmas open house, it you’re thinking ahead. Also worth considering are
the Brampton Cab from South Africa or the Xavier Cotes du Rhone 2012.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ANTINORI PIAN DELLE VIGNE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 987
cases of 6 $69.95 – You’d laugh if you
weren’t crying, right? This is $53.75 in Quebec for the same Vintage so those
who have defended the LCBO by saying that it serves a purpose and funds things
like OHIP etc can look at Quebec. With the same health system and subsidized
daycare for young families (max cost $7.30 up to a max. of $20 per day) they still manage to sell this wine for $16.25
less than the LCBO – how does the LCBO get away with that? Anywhere else and it
would be called price gouging (or perhaps incompetence?).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PENFOLDS BIN 28
KALIMNA SHIRAZ 2012 155 cases of 6
$34.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TWO HANDS LILY'S GARDEN SHIRAZ 2013 299 cases of 6 $54.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
E. GUIGAL GIGONDAS 2011 197 cases
of 12 $36.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
J. L. CHAVE SÉLECTION OFFERUS SAINT-JOSEPH
2012 71 cases of 12
$33.95 – Nice meaty peppery syrah
from a terrific producer. Lamb chops are calling its name.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BENI DI BATASIOLO BOSCARETO BAROLO 2009 199 cases
of 6 $67.95<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FONTANAFREDDA LA ROSA BAROLO 2008 127 cases
of 6 $64.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TENUTA SETTE PONTI ORENO 2012 246 cases of 6 $77.95 – This has come down a wee bit (maybe
to try to match Quebec?) and the 2004 was among my wines of the year last year but I
can’t justify it. Quebec has it at $73 for the 2011. Just sayin’.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
POGGIOTONDO BRUNELLO
DI MONTALCINO 2010 592 cases of 12 $39.95
– An old style Brunello at a reasonable price. But this is ‘old style’ so fruit
will be reticent and food is recommended.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SAN FELICE IL GRIGIO DA SAN FELICE GRAN
SELEZIONE CHIANTI 247 cases of 6
$46.95 – A Chianti in Brunello
clothing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-76844271575910826502015-10-14T09:55:00.000-04:002015-10-14T09:55:46.542-04:00October 17th Vintages - Cali and Piedmont vie for your cash<div class="MsoNormal">
The October 17th<sup>st</sup> release sees the prices begin
to spike as we head into the Christmas time releases. Focused on California
with an able backup from Barolo, this one will be a wallet lightener to be
sure. The LCBO, ever the masters of the understatement called this release the
California Gold Rush. Look at the prices and you’ll see why - They’re rushing
to get our gold.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MIDI<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
M. CHAPOUTIER DOMAINE DE BILA-HAUT OCCULTUM LAPIDEM 2013 998 cases
of 12 $25.95 – Always excellent but will need a bit
of time to calm down. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
VILLA SYMPOSIA L'EQUILIBRE 2012 221 cases
of 12 $22.95 - Another reasonably good buy for a mid term
ageworthy wine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FAMILLE PERRIN LES CORNUDS VINSOBRES 2013 404 cases
of 12 $17.95 – With the Nicalo, this is
the semibargain red selection of the release. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DOMAINES PERRIN COUDOULET DE BEAUCASTEL CÔTES-DU-RHÔNE 344 cases
of 12 $29.95 – A Cotes du Rhone with Chateauneufian sensibilities. Built to age
in the medium term, you’ll find it puckeringly tannic in its youth. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3 RINGS SHIRAZ 2013
995 cases of 12 $18.95 - Consistent wine – never let’s you down.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MOLLYDOOKER THE BOXER SHIRAZ 2013 199 cases of 12 $29.95 – Sometimes referred to as The
BenlynDooker, this’ll be inky black garnet and juicy. Old style OZ.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
D'ARENBERG THE GALVO GARAGE 2010 191 cases of 12 $29.95 Is it my imagination or has this
jumped in price from last year? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
VENICE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TEDESCHI CAPITEL
NICALÒ 2013 948 cases of 12 $17.95 – The
other semibargain of the release. I do expect to like this one based on history.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RIOJA VEGA RESERVA 2008 1059 cases
of 12 $21.95 – Lots of bottles so no rush. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DOMINIO DE TARES CEPAS VIEJAS MENCIA 2011 298 cases
of 12 $29.95 – This one has jumped in
price if I recall correctly. Expect something akin to a southern Rhone palate
with a dollop of pinot noir thrown in. The only grape in it is mencia. But
that’s what it tastes like to me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FATTORIA DI BASCIANO I PINI 2011 239 cases of 6 $30.95 – I’m hoping for a
replay of Castello del Terriccio’s
terrific Tassinaia with this one. One dollar too much drops it into the Big
Buck zone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BRITISH COLUMBIA’s JACKSON-TRIGGS SUNROCK VINEYARD ILLUMINA
2012 111 cases of 6 $34.95- A spectacular setting and a terrific
vineyard in both soil composition and solar exposure. If you want to see how much fruit a Canadian
red can show try this blend of Zinfandel and Shiraz. Note to J.T - check the harvest dates on the
PDF for this one on the Great Estates website. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CASTELLO DI AMA SAN LORENZO CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN
SELEZIONE 348 cases of 12 $45.95
- I’m a big fan of Di Ama but I’ll have to drown my sorrows with a
bottle of 2009 Reserva since I expect I’ll
lose out on the charge for this one come Saturday (or Friday, or whenever!).<span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span>Like the Banfi below, it’ll
need some time to tame the tannins.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BANFI POGGIO ALLE MURA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 110 cases of 6 $69.95 Patience people, patience. Needs at
least 7 years to show the best it has to offer. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All across Europe, 2010 was a great vintage. The following four
Barolos should provide real pleasure for you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TENUTA ROCCA BAROLO 2010
239 cases of 12 $36.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PRUNOTTO BAROLO 2010 199 cases of 12 $40.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FONTANAFREDDA SERRALUNGA D'ALBA BAROLO 2010 200 cases
of 12 $44.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ASCHERI SORANA BAROLO 2010 111 cases
of 12 $57.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PICCINI VILA AL CORTILE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2009 299 cases
of 12 $36.95 – A nice comparatively inexpensive
Brunello to sip while you wait for the 2010 Banfi below to age and come around.
Remember, patience is a virtue though! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DOMAINE DE CRISTIA CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2012 149 cases of 12 $43.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-transform: uppercase;">Black Stallion Napa
Cabernet</span> 2012 - $32.95 – 91% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance a blend
of the Bordeaux grapes this is as close to a bargain as I could find from Napa.
But I’ll wait for next release and buy a cab from Washington St. or Chile.<o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-32283320645412114292015-09-30T12:31:00.000-04:002015-09-30T12:31:01.562-04:00October 3 Vintages release - a rude awakening<div class="MsoNormal">
Just back from two and a half weeks enjoying many of the
pleasures that Italy has to offer so this week’s release returns us to earth
with a thud. A few to choose from and fewer still to get excited about!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ARGENTINA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ALTOS LAS HORMIGAS TERROIR MALBEC 2012 222 cases of 12 $22.95 – A late season steak on
the BBQ? Well then, here’s this week’s rare beef special. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CAPE BARREN NATIVE
GOOSE GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/MOURVÈDRE 259 cases of 12 $19.95 A nice GSM for roast
pheasant or other winged creature or perhaps something porcine. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHALK HILL WINES WITS
END LUNA SHIRAZ 2013 598 cases of 12 $18.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHILE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TABALI RESERVA SYRAH
2012 398 cases of 12 $14.95 – I expect this to be
the best bargain in the release if you like black cherry with your smokey,
meaty, sweaty, olive tinged wines. From vineyards
in the Limari Valley in Chile which happens to be a very good location for
syrah.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FRANCE MIDI<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GÉRARD BERTRAND TERROIR CORBIÈRES 2011 499 cases
of 12 $16.95 – The only problem with this is that there are too many Bertrand
bottles to choose from in most Vintages sections. As good a producer as he is,
this seems a Biweekly occurrence now and runs the risk of brand overload.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DOMAINE LAFAGE CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES
2013 1197 cases of 12 $19.95 – Jeb Dunnuck will
become a name you see more and more in Vintages reviews. Especially as he
reviews other regions besides the Rhone. He might be stretching credibility
with this score. 93 points is a lot for this vintage and producer but it’ll
serve the LCBO well I suppose. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SICILY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CUSUMANO NOÀ 2012 332 cases
of 12 $22.95 - For fans of big, black
reds I recommend that you take a few steps off the beaten path and try this
blend. Decant or at least open an hour ahead.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FONTERUTOLI CHIANTI
CLASSICO 2012 398 cases of 12 $25.95 - A little fruitier than the reserve, great
with tomato and or meat sauces.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TENUTA SETTE PONTI
CROGNOLO 2012 349 cases of 12 $35.95 Further evidence that James Suckling’s palate
has gone south. Can’t possibly be this good and I will not waste $35 to prove
it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TENUTA SAN VINCENTI
GRAN SELEZIONE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2011 100 cases of 12 $54.95 The latest of the Chiantis dressed in Brunello
pricetags.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Age alert*****Those already
in retirement should seriously consider whether they’ll be around to see each
of the following wines in its prime.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CASTIGLION DEL BOSCO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010 224 cases
of 12 $59.95 A brilliant vintage across Italy and especially the big two – Brunello
and Barolo, here is the latest of the 2010’s. By the way, stay tuned for my
notes on our visit to the region and the unanimous perception of the LCBO among
producers in Tuscany. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ROCCHE COSTAMAGNA
ROCCHE DELL'ANNUNCIATA BAROLO 2010 224 cases of 12 $44.95 – A brilliant vintage
across Italy and especially the big two – Brunello and Barolo, here is the
latest of the 2010’s. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LE VIEUX DONJON
CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2013 149 cases of 12 $58.95 Do you have a vertical to keep alive? Go
for one perhaps. This’ll need 5- 10 years to even consider it to be ready to
approach. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1326496827426467927.post-77328819890334119932015-08-31T10:32:00.000-04:002015-09-02T13:09:59.828-04:00Vintages Labour Day Release<div class="MsoNormal">
Labour Day Weekend signals that the end of summer is almost
upon us. For the LCBO it usually signals the beginning of better Vintages releases
as we get into autumn. Remember that better is generally accompanied by ‘lots more
expensive’ with the LCBO. Check the prices to see.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An interesting side note, there is only one wine from
Australia in this release and it’s a white. This may have happened in the
recent past but I can’t remember when. On to the picks!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOUTH AFRICA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MULDERBOSCH FAITHFUL HOUND 2012 222 cases of 12 $20.95 – Excellent, very well done in a juicy, albeit tannic Bordeaux style. I know that contradicts, but the wine is fruity and tannic so they’re the descriptors I’ve got. Best laid down for a year or so based on past vintages.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OLARRA CLÁSICO RESERVA 2009 501 cases of 12 $18.95 - Let the battles begin! A score of 97 points combined with a sub $20 price point almost guarantees fisticuffs. Schedule your Saturday accordingly!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHILE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MONTGRAS ANTU SYRAH 2012 2199 cases
of 12 $17.00 - A full bodied if somewhat
oaky syrah. Look for black fruits, vanilla notes and hints of dark chocolate. While
a nice wine this is really no bargain considering how many cases are being
bought by the LCBO. For quite some time the 2013 Vintage has also been available
at Vintages for 95 cents more. (<b><i>Update - Now I'm confused! The 2013 and the 2012 are both priced at $17 on the vintages website and as of Sept. 2, all the inventory in store was applied to the 2013, not the 2012. Seems ironic that the Vintages folks can't seem to keep track of different, wait for it, vintages! Shop accordingly.)</i></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MIDI<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DOMAINE LAFAGE TESSELLAE CÔTES DU ROUSSILLON OLD VINES 2013 3494 cases of 12 $17.00 . Think of this Domaine
Lafage/ Eric Solomon coproduction as an upper price point Cotes du Rhone
Villages and don’t forget that you can oft times get a CdR-V of equivalent
quality for under $15. The Tessellae was
designed and built for American tastes (Solomon is the American importer) and
is the other Food and Drink Special. It was available at some small Mom and Pop
stores south of the border for less than $12. so to call it a ‘special’ might
be stretching advertising credibility. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
RHÔNE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LE GRAVILLAS GIGONDAS 2013 448 cases
of 12 $22.95 – well priced for a Gigondas, about the same as 2012, but remember there was
a poor grenache vintage in the Southern Rhone in 2013 so you may find a different
flavor profile than in the past.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TUSCANY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BRANCAIA TRE 2012 476 cases of 12 $23.95
- This scores like mad but like so many Italian wines, it shows its best
when served with food. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CASTELLO DI QUERCETO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2011 235 cases
of 12 $29.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PICCINI SASSO AL POGGIO 2009 795 cases
of 12 $19.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
VIGNAMAGGIO GHERARDINO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2012 243 cases
of 12 $24.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SPAIN</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BODEGAS ALTANZA HACIENDA VALVARÉS 2011 471 cases of 12 $19.95 -
OK<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ABAD DOM BUENO MENCÍA 2008 698 cases of 12 $15.95 -
Another Mencia for those seeking a red that’s a little different.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WASHINGTON STATE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SAGELANDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 299 cases of 12 $18.95 - Nice black cherry attack, loamy mid-palate
with a moderately long finish. $9.99, yes $9.99, on Amazon.com <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CALIFORNIA – all three of the cabs below finish a close second
to Sagelands in my opinion.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER'S RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 616 cases
of 12 $22.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
IRONY SMALL LOT RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 1958 cases
of 12 $21.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
HESS SELECT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 782 cases of 12 $24.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BIG BUCKS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
J.L. CHAVE SELECTION SILÈNE CROZES-HERMITAGE 2013 75 cases of 12 $33.00 – Rack of lamb anyone? Maybe have a J.L.
Chave/ Fess Parker syrah off with the winner getting a coon skin cap.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FESS PARKER THE BIG EASY SYRAH 2012 193 cases of 6 $35.95 Best
served with beef jerky while watching
black and white reruns of Disney’s Davey Crocket or Daniel Boone. Or if you’re
feeling up to colour, go for Old Yeller. Although I usually reserve a Chardonnay
(yellow dog after all) and a box of Kleenex for that one.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA DIRECTOR'S CUT CABERNET 446 cases of 12 $34.95 - Among if not my favourite Alexander Valley/ Sonoma cabs and priced where it was last year.<br />
CHATEAU MONTELENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 110 cases of 12
$70.95 –Kaching.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GALLO SIGNATURE
SERIES CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 223 cases of 6 $49.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TENUTA DEGLI DEI CAVALLI 2010 240 cases of 6 $49.95</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
INSPIRACIÓN VALDEMAR GRACIANO 2005 375 cases of 6 $34.95 - Ten years on, this is ready to rock!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
VERBENA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2009 247 cases of 12 $39.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TIGNANELLO 2011 601
cases of 6 $102.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PATRICK LESEC GALETS BLONDS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2012 108
cases of 12 $56.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
FERDINANDO PRINCIPIANO DEL COMUNE DI SERRALUNGA D'ALBA 192 cases
of 12 $44.95 <o:p></o:p></div>
BPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189508719242234765noreply@blogger.com0