THE LCBO STARTS OFF THE YEAR IN A STRANGE WAY - WITH A BARGAIN RELEASE FOLLOWED ONE WEEK LATER WITH AN ARGENTINA FOCUSED 2nd 'sort of bargain' RELEASE.
THE BARGAIN RELEASE IS FOR 2 REASONS. ONE, YOU’RE BROKE AND TWO, THEY USUALLY HAVE A SALE TO COMPETE AGAINST THEIR FIRST RELEASE. THIS YEAR THEY HAD A SALE IN DECEMBER, SO IF THEY HAVE ANOTHER IN JANUARY IT SHOULD BE A GOOD ONE. WATCH FOR IT!
BARGAIN OF THE RELEASE - ZONTE'S FOOTSTEP SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER 2006 – Probably the BUY of the release if you can find it! Drink this hedonistic effort over the next three years.- 90. $14.95
D'ARENBERG THE STUMP JUMP WHITE 2007 – a perrenial bargain @ $14.95
KILIKANOON THE LACKEY SHIRAZ 2006. It is a Best Buy. Score - 89. $17.95
PILLAR BOX RED 2006 - this wine is unfined and unfiltered so if you don’t decant it be careful pouring the last glass. An good buy at $17.95
TORBRECK OLD VINES GRENACHE/SHIRAZ 2005 – A favourite producer of mine. $20.95
ST. HALLETT FAITH SHIRAZ 2006 – Always good 88 to 91 points $19.95
MARQUEE CLASSIC ARTISAN WINES GSM 2006 - a well priced Aussie GSM- new to me though $18.95
LAVAU VACQUEYRAS 2007 - partnership with 300 growers to create wonderful wines like this aromatic blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvédre. Packed with dense black cherry fruit and spice, both complex and elegant $20.95
CHÂTEAU PESQUIÉ TERRASSES 2006 AC Côtes du Ventoux unfined/unfiltered is a blend of 70% Grenache / 30% Syrah. Give it a bit of time - this should be a good wine to drink over the next 4-5 years.-90 $15.95
BARON PHILIPPE DE ROTHSCHILD RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007- Very young but well priced $14.95
MONTES LIMITED SELECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON/CARMENÈRE 2007 $14.95
TERRANOBLE GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 One of the LCBO Wines of the Month ( theirs, not mine) but should be good nonetheless. $18.95
TAJA RESERVA 2003 This Reserva is compliments of the owners of Bordeaux's famed Château Palmer.- 90 points $16.95
ALBADA VIÑAS VIEJAS GARNACHA TINTO 2005 Wine Advocate rated this a 'Best Buy' This should be a wine with spicy black fruits, a silky texture, and ripe tannins. It will evolve for 1-2 years and drink well through 2015. Score - 90. $15.95
N SENTIDO 2005 The big priced wine of the release for me. $25.95
But remember, I'm watching for the sale.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Monday, December 8, 2008
Proof that the economy is worse than we thought! Two Big Sales - Pre Christmas, no less!
Wow, check out Vintages website or your local store for 2 big sales beginning today! One is instore and there are some BP past picks that have been substantially reduced. The second is 'order from the warehouse' for delivery to and pick up at your local store!
http://www.vintages.com/
Happy bargain hunting!!!!
http://www.vintages.com/
Happy bargain hunting!!!!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Dec.06, aka the last of the "Suck up to the boss gifts" release
DECEMBER 6 , some really big dollar options, also lots of Champagnes for New Year's Eve Celebrations, both of which I largely ignored.
Of the Big $$ items, these caught my eye.
ONTARIO
CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES EQUULEUS 2005 – A Niagara Delight from a great year. Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard -Excellent fruit from an excellent producer. Decant big time, but have a little sip on the hour to taste it as it evolves. $40.00
FIELDING ESTATE MERITAGE 2005 - A Gold Medal winner at the 2008 Ontario Wine Awards. – super wine from a nice Niagara family vineyard. $35.20
The rest of the World
CONCHA Y TORO DON MELCHOR CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 – Probably the best cab in the release if price were no object, but let’s face it , it is an object! $61.95 -
D'ARENBERG THE DEAD ARM SHIRAZ 2006 McLaren Vale, South Australia – A perennial fave of mine, this is now officially overpriced. $55.95
YALUMBA THE MENZIES CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 Coonawarra, South Australia
A terrific cab, but not a great buy! $49.95
TORBRECK RUN RIG 2004 Barossa Valley. When I’m lying on my death bed I’ll probably wish I had bought one of these to try but $275 bucks! 99+points.
ORNELLAIA 2005 DOC Bolgheri Superiore 2005 marks the 20th vintage of Ornellaia.
Spectacular Score - 95, $158.95 - Collectors will be lining up!
THE REGULAR RELEASE
California
CLIFF LEDE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $56.95
CHATEAU MONTELENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON $51.95
FESS PARKER THE BIG EASY SYRAH 2004 $40.95 – That Daniel Boone makes some amazing Syrahs – my Pick from California – Should be Huuuuuuge!
RIDGE THREE VALLEYS 2006 $29.95
RODNEY STRONG CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 $33.95 – Good price for the wine.
Argentina
3 nice Malbecs, very well priced – go for the Kaiken for a buck or two more! But remember, serve with red, red meat!
GOULART RESERVA MALBEC 2006
KAIKEN ULTRA MALBEC 2006
ZOLO RESERVE MALBEC 2005
Chile
VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA BLACK LABEL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005
Looks like a tribute to Torres Mas La Plana – Black and gold label, Pinot style bottle – big Cab – less than half the price of Mas la Plana though for a terrific wine - $19.95
ESTAMPA GOLD 2004 – $18.95 BUT NOT AS GOOD A WINE AS THE TARAPACA
OZ
WALLACE BY BEN GLAETZER SHIRAZ/GRENACHE 2006 – higher priced than most LCBO Wines of the Month, but worth it! $26.95
KILIKANOON - KILLERMAN'S RUN – anything - is always topnotch – $20.95 for each of the two .
THE RHONE
GIGONDAS LA CAVE LA RÉFÉRENCE GIGONDAS 2006 - $21.95 – If you want to try to understand terroir, try this and a Vacqueyras from a recent release. They’re neighbours in the Rhone Valley but are really different!
ORTAS RASTEAU TRADITION 2007 – 16.95 – Tremendous buy for a ready to drink, not too tannic, fruity wine.
ITALY
ROCCA DI CASTAGNOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA POGGIO A'FRATI 2004 To Quote Gambero Rosso “a hymn to the sangiovese grape, has subtle red berries, dried flowers and aromatic herbs on the nose and a taut, succulent palate”. Any wine that is a hymn to a grape is good enough for me! $33.95
So what am I buying? This list pretty much describes me to a T – all over the map winewise! The Chianti, as long as it’s a hymn sung by Bocelli, The Fess Parker – Daniel Boone in a coonskin cap, and probably the Chilean Cab travelling incognito in the Pinot bottle!
Of the Big $$ items, these caught my eye.
ONTARIO
CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES EQUULEUS 2005 – A Niagara Delight from a great year. Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard -Excellent fruit from an excellent producer. Decant big time, but have a little sip on the hour to taste it as it evolves. $40.00
FIELDING ESTATE MERITAGE 2005 - A Gold Medal winner at the 2008 Ontario Wine Awards. – super wine from a nice Niagara family vineyard. $35.20
The rest of the World
CONCHA Y TORO DON MELCHOR CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 – Probably the best cab in the release if price were no object, but let’s face it , it is an object! $61.95 -
D'ARENBERG THE DEAD ARM SHIRAZ 2006 McLaren Vale, South Australia – A perennial fave of mine, this is now officially overpriced. $55.95
YALUMBA THE MENZIES CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 Coonawarra, South Australia
A terrific cab, but not a great buy! $49.95
TORBRECK RUN RIG 2004 Barossa Valley. When I’m lying on my death bed I’ll probably wish I had bought one of these to try but $275 bucks! 99+points.
ORNELLAIA 2005 DOC Bolgheri Superiore 2005 marks the 20th vintage of Ornellaia.
Spectacular Score - 95, $158.95 - Collectors will be lining up!
THE REGULAR RELEASE
California
CLIFF LEDE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $56.95
CHATEAU MONTELENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON $51.95
FESS PARKER THE BIG EASY SYRAH 2004 $40.95 – That Daniel Boone makes some amazing Syrahs – my Pick from California – Should be Huuuuuuge!
RIDGE THREE VALLEYS 2006 $29.95
RODNEY STRONG CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 $33.95 – Good price for the wine.
Argentina
3 nice Malbecs, very well priced – go for the Kaiken for a buck or two more! But remember, serve with red, red meat!
GOULART RESERVA MALBEC 2006
KAIKEN ULTRA MALBEC 2006
ZOLO RESERVE MALBEC 2005
Chile
VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA BLACK LABEL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005
Looks like a tribute to Torres Mas La Plana – Black and gold label, Pinot style bottle – big Cab – less than half the price of Mas la Plana though for a terrific wine - $19.95
ESTAMPA GOLD 2004 – $18.95 BUT NOT AS GOOD A WINE AS THE TARAPACA
OZ
WALLACE BY BEN GLAETZER SHIRAZ/GRENACHE 2006 – higher priced than most LCBO Wines of the Month, but worth it! $26.95
KILIKANOON - KILLERMAN'S RUN – anything - is always topnotch – $20.95 for each of the two .
THE RHONE
GIGONDAS LA CAVE LA RÉFÉRENCE GIGONDAS 2006 - $21.95 – If you want to try to understand terroir, try this and a Vacqueyras from a recent release. They’re neighbours in the Rhone Valley but are really different!
ORTAS RASTEAU TRADITION 2007 – 16.95 – Tremendous buy for a ready to drink, not too tannic, fruity wine.
ITALY
ROCCA DI CASTAGNOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA POGGIO A'FRATI 2004 To Quote Gambero Rosso “a hymn to the sangiovese grape, has subtle red berries, dried flowers and aromatic herbs on the nose and a taut, succulent palate”. Any wine that is a hymn to a grape is good enough for me! $33.95
So what am I buying? This list pretty much describes me to a T – all over the map winewise! The Chianti, as long as it’s a hymn sung by Bocelli, The Fess Parker – Daniel Boone in a coonskin cap, and probably the Chilean Cab travelling incognito in the Pinot bottle!
Saturday, November 22, 2008
November 22nd Pre Christmas release
This is the Christmas gift release – lots of high end options to suck up to the boss with.
My first reaction was ho hum, but upon further review, there are some beauts in the regular part of the release too.
The big big buck gift suggestions from the LCBO
CLOUDY BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC 2007
CLOS PEGASE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 92- $50.95
DUCKHORN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $78.95
JOSEPH PHELPS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $73.95
HAZYBLUR SHIRAZ 2005 $77.95
HENSCHKE KEYNETON ESTATE EUPHONIUM 2004 $56.95
MITCHELTON PRINT SHIRAZ 2003 $44.95
WOLF BLASS BLACK LABEL SHIRAZ/CABERNET SAUVIGNON/MALBEC 2004 $98.95
CATENA ALTA MALBEC 2005 $60.95
LE VIEUX DONJON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2006 $61.95
FULIGNI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 $75.95
ISOLE E OLENA CEPPARELLO 2004 $78.95
ALION 2004 96. $80.95
Corbec – Think Amarone from Argentina…very interesting and $29.95
DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS PÉTALOS 2006 Probably the only high ender that I’ll buy! Should be very ‘different’. It also has a great label for the season.$25.95
HERMANOS PECIÑA SEÑORÍO DE P. PECIÑA GRAN RESERVA 1998 $55.95
The best of the rest and in some cases the best of the best!
MONTES ALPHA SYRAH 2006 – Always excellent, last years was a WS Top 100. Can’t go wrong! - 90. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, $22.95
SANTA CAROLINA VSC 2006 VSC is Viña Santa Carolina's flagship red. Should be good but maybe not up to the price tag $29.95
D'ARENBERG THE GALVO GARAGE 2006 – I think I’d take this over the VSC.This blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 18% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc won a Gold Medal at the Korea Wine Challenge 2008.TASTING NOTE: Nice wine. Lots of flavour. Full of dusty, cedary, tarry flavour. Sweet, soft heart. Firm dry tannins. $27.95
KILIKANOON THE MEDLEY 2006 Barossa Valley/Clare Valley, South Australia
The 2006 Medley is a GSM blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Shiraz and 10% Mourvèdre.. Try this one against the Burge Holy Trinity and you’ll say, Gee I’m glad I saved $11 bucks a bottle ( unless you drink them in 10 years, that is) $26.95
MAWSON'S HILL BLOCK 3 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Wrattonbully, South Australia (Yalumba Wine Company) I’m recommending this just cuz I like to say Wrattonbully. Wrattonbully. Wrattonbully. Wrattonbully. There, now I don’t need to buy any.Good price tho and a good wine for it. $19.95
VIRGARA WINES SHIRAZ 2004 $29.95 – No that’s not Viagra wines….hmmm interesting concept tho…ahhh back to the wine…not a bad choice.
MULDERBOSCH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2007 Always great, Score - 90. $18.95
VIGNERONS D'ESTÉZARGUES LA GRANACHA SIGNARGUES 2006 Expensive for a Cotes du Rhone but what the heck, I have this vision of a bunch of farmers standing around the grape press smoking Gaulloises discussing soccer and politics… Small is beautiful! $21.95
DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VACQUEYRAS 2004 - blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah. You know me and my Vacqueyras….gotta have some and while ’04 wasn’t quite ‘05 it should be in it’s prime. $25.95
Château Larroque ‘Winter Label’ 2005 AOC Bordeaux $16.95 – labelled for the season…and not a bad QPR.
Terra D’Aligi Tolos Montepulciano D’Abruzzo 2004 DOC Montepulciano D’Abruzzo $29.95 – should be excellent.
Lots of Chianti Classico reservas – I’d pick the Antinori or the Ruffino – but they’re not cheap!
And last but not least, two cheap Spaniards for under 20:
JUAN GIL MONASTRELL 2006
VALLOBERA CRIANZA 2005
My first reaction was ho hum, but upon further review, there are some beauts in the regular part of the release too.
The big big buck gift suggestions from the LCBO
CLOUDY BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC 2007
CLOS PEGASE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 92- $50.95
DUCKHORN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $78.95
JOSEPH PHELPS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $73.95
HAZYBLUR SHIRAZ 2005 $77.95
HENSCHKE KEYNETON ESTATE EUPHONIUM 2004 $56.95
MITCHELTON PRINT SHIRAZ 2003 $44.95
WOLF BLASS BLACK LABEL SHIRAZ/CABERNET SAUVIGNON/MALBEC 2004 $98.95
CATENA ALTA MALBEC 2005 $60.95
LE VIEUX DONJON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2006 $61.95
FULIGNI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 $75.95
ISOLE E OLENA CEPPARELLO 2004 $78.95
ALION 2004 96. $80.95
Corbec – Think Amarone from Argentina…very interesting and $29.95
DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS PÉTALOS 2006 Probably the only high ender that I’ll buy! Should be very ‘different’. It also has a great label for the season.$25.95
HERMANOS PECIÑA SEÑORÍO DE P. PECIÑA GRAN RESERVA 1998 $55.95
The best of the rest and in some cases the best of the best!
MONTES ALPHA SYRAH 2006 – Always excellent, last years was a WS Top 100. Can’t go wrong! - 90. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, $22.95
SANTA CAROLINA VSC 2006 VSC is Viña Santa Carolina's flagship red. Should be good but maybe not up to the price tag $29.95
D'ARENBERG THE GALVO GARAGE 2006 – I think I’d take this over the VSC.This blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 18% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc won a Gold Medal at the Korea Wine Challenge 2008.TASTING NOTE: Nice wine. Lots of flavour. Full of dusty, cedary, tarry flavour. Sweet, soft heart. Firm dry tannins. $27.95
KILIKANOON THE MEDLEY 2006 Barossa Valley/Clare Valley, South Australia
The 2006 Medley is a GSM blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Shiraz and 10% Mourvèdre.. Try this one against the Burge Holy Trinity and you’ll say, Gee I’m glad I saved $11 bucks a bottle ( unless you drink them in 10 years, that is) $26.95
MAWSON'S HILL BLOCK 3 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Wrattonbully, South Australia (Yalumba Wine Company) I’m recommending this just cuz I like to say Wrattonbully. Wrattonbully. Wrattonbully. Wrattonbully. There, now I don’t need to buy any.Good price tho and a good wine for it. $19.95
VIRGARA WINES SHIRAZ 2004 $29.95 – No that’s not Viagra wines….hmmm interesting concept tho…ahhh back to the wine…not a bad choice.
MULDERBOSCH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2007 Always great, Score - 90. $18.95
VIGNERONS D'ESTÉZARGUES LA GRANACHA SIGNARGUES 2006 Expensive for a Cotes du Rhone but what the heck, I have this vision of a bunch of farmers standing around the grape press smoking Gaulloises discussing soccer and politics… Small is beautiful! $21.95
DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VACQUEYRAS 2004 - blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah. You know me and my Vacqueyras….gotta have some and while ’04 wasn’t quite ‘05 it should be in it’s prime. $25.95
Château Larroque ‘Winter Label’ 2005 AOC Bordeaux $16.95 – labelled for the season…and not a bad QPR.
Terra D’Aligi Tolos Montepulciano D’Abruzzo 2004 DOC Montepulciano D’Abruzzo $29.95 – should be excellent.
Lots of Chianti Classico reservas – I’d pick the Antinori or the Ruffino – but they’re not cheap!
And last but not least, two cheap Spaniards for under 20:
JUAN GIL MONASTRELL 2006
VALLOBERA CRIANZA 2005
Monday, November 10, 2008
November 8th Release
Bordeaux Special – most of these will need time but there could be some good ones in the lot. I’m not a huge bordeaux fan. I find them too Tobacco-y on my palate and won’t be buying any. Of the rest of the release, some good QPR malbecs, some good syrahs, a couple of cabs and some Brunellos for the big ticket fans. But, I think my two faves of the release are ISD’s. Columbia Crest Walter Clore Vineyard and the Leasingham Classic Clare Cabernet. Big Bucks for both but ….mmmmm.
Bordeaux
CHÂTEAU LA COURONNE 2005 AC St-Émilion(Mähler-Besse). Best after 2012. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Web Only, 2008) $29.95
CHÂTEAU LE CARILLON 2005 AC Pomerol Best 2008 to 2013. Score - 92. (David Lawrason, Toronto Life Wineblog, Nov. 13, 2007) $39.95
CHÂTEAU LILIAN LADOUYS 2003AC Saint-Estèphe . Best after 2010. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006) $35.95
Best of the Rest
LA POSTA ANGEL PAULUCCI VINEYARD MALBEC 2006 Mendoza TASTING NOTE: The 2006 Malbec "Paulucci Vineyard" was aged for 10 months in 100% French oak, 20% new. Purple-colored, it offers a lovely bouquet of violets, smoke, black cherry, and blackberry. Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2007) $15.95
DOÑA PAULA ESTATE MALBEC 2006 Mendoza TASTING NOTE: Solid, with a juicy core of red plum, raspberry and red licorice flavors backed by alluring spice and floral notes on the finish. Drink now through 2008. Score 89. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2007) $16.95
RUSTENBERG JOHN X MERRIMAN 2005 WO Simonsberg-Stellenbosch Haven’t tried this one, I’m thinking it could be one of the sleepers this week.'Modern classic' Bordeaux-style blend ... A real charmer. Entices with fresh, ripe fruit perfume, silky sleekness, restraining ripe tannins. Merlot-led (54%), with Cabernet Sauvignon (33%) Cabernet Franc (4%), Petit Verdot (6%), and Malbec (3%). French oaked [aged], 50% new, [for] 20 mths. $27.95
5 nice Syrahs
GRANT BURGE MIAMBA SHIRAZ 2006Barossa, supple, medium-bodied wine, with appealing spicy fruit nuances, fine tannins and subtle oak; bears testament to the vintage; long finish. Score - 93. (James Halliday, winecompanion.com.au, March 2008) $23.95
JACKSON-TRIGGS DELAINE VINEYARD SYRAH 2005 – Compare this one to the CAlifornia following or the Crozes Hermitage from Caves de Tain VQA Niagara Peninsula This single-vineyard Syrah exhibits real, Rhône-like complexity, with smoked meat and white peppery notes adding interest on the nose and palate. Score - (out of 5). $29.95
TORBRECK WOODCUTTER'S SHIRAZ 2006 always tasty and very well priced. This one can be unfined and unfiltered so the last glass should be poured with care.it has an attractive array of pepper, spicy blackberry, black cherry, and blueberry muffin aromas. Full-bodied and opulent on the palate, delivers gobs of meaty, full-flavored blue and black fruits to accompany its forward, easy-going personality. Drink this incredible value over the next 4-6 years. Score - 92. (Jay Miller, Oct. 2007) $26.95
ARROWOOD LE BEAU MÉLANGE SYRAH 2002 Sonoma Valley, Unfined and Unfiltereda chocolaty, earthy effort revealing a hint of new saddle leather, full-bodied flavors, and an exuberant, typically California personality with its up-front fruit and precocious personality. Score - (90-93). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2003) $29.95
CAVE DE TAIN CROZES HERMITAGE FINE FLEUR DE CROZES 2005 classic northern Rhône Syrah is designed for early enjoyment. Barrel aged and fermented, it's deep ruby in colour with aromas of blackcurrant, spice, mineral and toasty oak notes. It's rich and silky with fresh black fruit flavours mingling with mineral notes, decent acidity and smooth medium tannins. Enjoy with roasted lamb sprinkled with rosemary or a spicy beef stew. $22.95
Couple of Cabs
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER'S RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 may underwhelm in its tenderness, but has very good focus and length. Ripe cherry-berry, tobacco, earth and spice, all well combined. The wine is mid-weight, supple but not sweet, with fine acidity and tannin. Excellent length. Enjoy now to 2011. Score - 90. (David Lawrason, 2008) $22.95
RODNEY STRONG CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Highly Recommended.by Tastings.com Score - 88. $22.95
PIRRAMIMMA PETIT VERDOT A quality producer - This rare single-varietal offering of the lesser-known Bordeaux grape is considered among the world's best.Lots and Lots of Licorice as I recall.$23.95
PRIMA 2006 (Bodegas y Viñedos Maurodos) (90% tempranillo and 10% garnacha) Deep ruby. Smoky cherry and blackberry aromas. Fresh and racy, with pure red and dark fruit flavors, fine-grained tannins and good tangy lift. Score - 90. (Josh Raynolds, Int’l Wine Cellar, 2008) $24.95
Christmas is coming and so are The BIG, BIG Buck Ones
COTO REAL RESERVA 2001- DOC Rioja Complex and expressive, this elegant red is rich with black plum, licorice, mineral, smoke and floral notes, all beautifully balanced, fresh and long on the palate. Still young and lively. Drink now through 2015.Score - 93. ( www.winespectator.com, Nov. 15, 2007) $39.95
LEASINGHAM CLASSIC CLARE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003 Clare Valley, South Australia "Uncompromising full-bodied wine; masses of black fruits, but even more tannins; needs a minimum of 10 years before approaching ... Score - 94. (If you just can't wait, decant and try it with a rare steak. $51.95
COLUMBIA CREST WALTER CLORE PRIVATE RESERVE RED 2003 – Oh boy, this one should be amazing! But an ISD, so few bottles in few stores….Columbia Valley "A classy nose of smoky oak, vanilla, lead pencil, plum, black currant, and blackberry leads to a rich, still youthful wine with loads of extract, thick fruit, superb integration of oak, tannin, and acidity, and a very long finish." Score - 93. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, August 2007) $49.95
MASSOLINO BAROLO 2004TASTING NOTE: Raspberry, truffle, tobacco and cedar on the nose. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and ultrafine tannins. This is refined, yet structured and muscular. Best after 2011. Score - 91. (James Suckling,) $58.95
TERRE DA VINO BAROLO ESSENZE 2003 Premier Vineyards TASTING NOTE: Shows a wonderful richness of fruit, with a spicy, decadent undertone. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a long, caressing finish. Needs bottle age to mellow. Best after 2009. Score - 90. (James Suckling, $44.95
MARCHESI DE' FRESCOBALDI MORMORETO CASTELLO DI NIPOZZANO 2005 This always-impressive Tuscan-take on Bordeaux blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Regal in stature, this deep ruby/purple wine features dark berries, cinnamon, and leather characteristics. Full-bodied, classy, with firm tannins, this is a powerhouse red to pair with roast beef or lamb. $59.95
SILVIO NARDI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 DOCG TASTING NOTE: Nardi's 2003 Brunello di Montalcino is an elegant, finessed wine with remarkable clarity and precision in its ripe fruit. It offers notable persistence on the palate and a long, lingering finish. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. Score - 91. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, April 2008) $59.95
TENEMENTI ANGELINI VAL DI SUGA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 DOCG Offers pretty blackberry and raspberry aromas. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh, floral, berry aftertaste. Best after 2009.Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, May 15, 2008) $51.95
Bordeaux
CHÂTEAU LA COURONNE 2005 AC St-Émilion(Mähler-Besse). Best after 2012. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Web Only, 2008) $29.95
CHÂTEAU LE CARILLON 2005 AC Pomerol Best 2008 to 2013. Score - 92. (David Lawrason, Toronto Life Wineblog, Nov. 13, 2007) $39.95
CHÂTEAU LILIAN LADOUYS 2003AC Saint-Estèphe . Best after 2010. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006) $35.95
Best of the Rest
LA POSTA ANGEL PAULUCCI VINEYARD MALBEC 2006 Mendoza TASTING NOTE: The 2006 Malbec "Paulucci Vineyard" was aged for 10 months in 100% French oak, 20% new. Purple-colored, it offers a lovely bouquet of violets, smoke, black cherry, and blackberry. Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2007) $15.95
DOÑA PAULA ESTATE MALBEC 2006 Mendoza TASTING NOTE: Solid, with a juicy core of red plum, raspberry and red licorice flavors backed by alluring spice and floral notes on the finish. Drink now through 2008. Score 89. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2007) $16.95
RUSTENBERG JOHN X MERRIMAN 2005 WO Simonsberg-Stellenbosch Haven’t tried this one, I’m thinking it could be one of the sleepers this week.'Modern classic' Bordeaux-style blend ... A real charmer. Entices with fresh, ripe fruit perfume, silky sleekness, restraining ripe tannins. Merlot-led (54%), with Cabernet Sauvignon (33%) Cabernet Franc (4%), Petit Verdot (6%), and Malbec (3%). French oaked [aged], 50% new, [for] 20 mths. $27.95
5 nice Syrahs
GRANT BURGE MIAMBA SHIRAZ 2006Barossa, supple, medium-bodied wine, with appealing spicy fruit nuances, fine tannins and subtle oak; bears testament to the vintage; long finish. Score - 93. (James Halliday, winecompanion.com.au, March 2008) $23.95
JACKSON-TRIGGS DELAINE VINEYARD SYRAH 2005 – Compare this one to the CAlifornia following or the Crozes Hermitage from Caves de Tain VQA Niagara Peninsula This single-vineyard Syrah exhibits real, Rhône-like complexity, with smoked meat and white peppery notes adding interest on the nose and palate. Score - (out of 5). $29.95
TORBRECK WOODCUTTER'S SHIRAZ 2006 always tasty and very well priced. This one can be unfined and unfiltered so the last glass should be poured with care.it has an attractive array of pepper, spicy blackberry, black cherry, and blueberry muffin aromas. Full-bodied and opulent on the palate, delivers gobs of meaty, full-flavored blue and black fruits to accompany its forward, easy-going personality. Drink this incredible value over the next 4-6 years. Score - 92. (Jay Miller, Oct. 2007) $26.95
ARROWOOD LE BEAU MÉLANGE SYRAH 2002 Sonoma Valley, Unfined and Unfiltereda chocolaty, earthy effort revealing a hint of new saddle leather, full-bodied flavors, and an exuberant, typically California personality with its up-front fruit and precocious personality. Score - (90-93). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2003) $29.95
CAVE DE TAIN CROZES HERMITAGE FINE FLEUR DE CROZES 2005 classic northern Rhône Syrah is designed for early enjoyment. Barrel aged and fermented, it's deep ruby in colour with aromas of blackcurrant, spice, mineral and toasty oak notes. It's rich and silky with fresh black fruit flavours mingling with mineral notes, decent acidity and smooth medium tannins. Enjoy with roasted lamb sprinkled with rosemary or a spicy beef stew. $22.95
Couple of Cabs
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER'S RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 may underwhelm in its tenderness, but has very good focus and length. Ripe cherry-berry, tobacco, earth and spice, all well combined. The wine is mid-weight, supple but not sweet, with fine acidity and tannin. Excellent length. Enjoy now to 2011. Score - 90. (David Lawrason, 2008) $22.95
RODNEY STRONG CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Highly Recommended.by Tastings.com Score - 88. $22.95
PIRRAMIMMA PETIT VERDOT A quality producer - This rare single-varietal offering of the lesser-known Bordeaux grape is considered among the world's best.Lots and Lots of Licorice as I recall.$23.95
PRIMA 2006 (Bodegas y Viñedos Maurodos) (90% tempranillo and 10% garnacha) Deep ruby. Smoky cherry and blackberry aromas. Fresh and racy, with pure red and dark fruit flavors, fine-grained tannins and good tangy lift. Score - 90. (Josh Raynolds, Int’l Wine Cellar, 2008) $24.95
Christmas is coming and so are The BIG, BIG Buck Ones
COTO REAL RESERVA 2001- DOC Rioja Complex and expressive, this elegant red is rich with black plum, licorice, mineral, smoke and floral notes, all beautifully balanced, fresh and long on the palate. Still young and lively. Drink now through 2015.Score - 93. ( www.winespectator.com, Nov. 15, 2007) $39.95
LEASINGHAM CLASSIC CLARE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003 Clare Valley, South Australia "Uncompromising full-bodied wine; masses of black fruits, but even more tannins; needs a minimum of 10 years before approaching ... Score - 94. (If you just can't wait, decant and try it with a rare steak. $51.95
COLUMBIA CREST WALTER CLORE PRIVATE RESERVE RED 2003 – Oh boy, this one should be amazing! But an ISD, so few bottles in few stores….Columbia Valley "A classy nose of smoky oak, vanilla, lead pencil, plum, black currant, and blackberry leads to a rich, still youthful wine with loads of extract, thick fruit, superb integration of oak, tannin, and acidity, and a very long finish." Score - 93. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, August 2007) $49.95
MASSOLINO BAROLO 2004TASTING NOTE: Raspberry, truffle, tobacco and cedar on the nose. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and ultrafine tannins. This is refined, yet structured and muscular. Best after 2011. Score - 91. (James Suckling,) $58.95
TERRE DA VINO BAROLO ESSENZE 2003 Premier Vineyards TASTING NOTE: Shows a wonderful richness of fruit, with a spicy, decadent undertone. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a long, caressing finish. Needs bottle age to mellow. Best after 2009. Score - 90. (James Suckling, $44.95
MARCHESI DE' FRESCOBALDI MORMORETO CASTELLO DI NIPOZZANO 2005 This always-impressive Tuscan-take on Bordeaux blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Regal in stature, this deep ruby/purple wine features dark berries, cinnamon, and leather characteristics. Full-bodied, classy, with firm tannins, this is a powerhouse red to pair with roast beef or lamb. $59.95
SILVIO NARDI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 DOCG TASTING NOTE: Nardi's 2003 Brunello di Montalcino is an elegant, finessed wine with remarkable clarity and precision in its ripe fruit. It offers notable persistence on the palate and a long, lingering finish. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. Score - 91. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, April 2008) $59.95
TENEMENTI ANGELINI VAL DI SUGA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 DOCG Offers pretty blackberry and raspberry aromas. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh, floral, berry aftertaste. Best after 2009.Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, May 15, 2008) $51.95
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Vintages October 25th release
A few goodies, but look around for some leftovers from the 11th too. It was such a good release! This week’s highlight - big Amarones all around $50 bucks. I think the top two Valpolicellas will deliver more QPR pleasure, but if you must try an Amarone, I’d go with the Zenato.
My Picks ( including a white and a website):
HEDGES CELLARS CMS 2006 Columbia Valley, Wash. St. I like Hedges and I like Washington reds CabSauv, Merlot and Syrah should be soft and rich $17.95
DOG POINT VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2007 –Take two guys from a Cult Winery and a great vineyard location and you get as good a wine as Cloudy Bay at almost half the price! guava fruit, hints of basil and silky citrus mineral spine $21.95
ZONIN VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE RIPASSO 2006 – should be Really good $19.95
TEDESCHI CAPITEL DEI NICALO VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2006 – Never met a Capitel dei Nicalo I didn’t like – going back 7 years! $18.95
Not often I pick a website but https://www.vintagesshoponline.com/vintages/ has just opened up and beginning soon will be a new channel for all wine fans to access more varied options from the world, I hope!
The Rest
Lurton Reserva MAlbec – not sure why it’s a reserva – good for the price tho.13.95
Two Chilean Cabs at 19.95 and 22.95 – neither one as good as last week’s Pick – find it, there’s more around still.
CATHEDRAL CELLAR CHARDONNAY 2005 TASTING NOTE: smoky, oaky chardonnay. A bargain if you like smoke a rerelease I think$14.95
CATHEDRAL CELLAR SHIRAZ 2004 ... savoury with brambly fruit, well-dusted with black pepper; Measured opulence? I have to remember that one! It’ll get me laughed out of the kitchen! Very well priced $16.95
TWO HANDS LUCKY COUNTRY SHIRAZ 2006 – Standard Barossa Big fruit, well priced $17.95
WYNNS COONAWARRA ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 – Sorry I cannot recommend this – the 2002 was in the regular list at $20 bucks. Reduced to clear at $15 – what a buy! Can’t bring myself to spend this much for it now! $24.95 Score - 95. (Jeremy Oliver) No way! – maybe 89-90.
WAKEFIELD SHIRAZ 2006 Good value. Score - 90. $18.95
JACKSON-TRIGGS PROPRIETORS' GRAND RESERVE MERITAGE 2005 VQA Niagara – 2005 was a great year here. Intensely flavoured, medium full-bodied red , let it breath a bit. $24.95
ELDERTON SHIRAZ 2005. Single vineyard, nose of smoke, tar, licorice, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. Full-bodied and voluptuous,( sounds like Pam Anderson in a glass!) it is dense ( even more like Pam Anderson!) and concentrated, with gobs of spicy black fruit flavors.. $32.95
SEGHESIO ZINFANDEL 2006 BBQ wines. Always good- Shows robust black cherry and spice aromas and blackberry jam and licorice flavors. The tannins firm up the finish. Drink now through 2012. Score - 91. ($24.95) and BEAULIEU VINEYARD ZINFANDEL 2005 Want to compare two good Zin’s? Now is your chance! 25.95
NINO NEGRI SFURSAT VALTELLINA 2004 – 3 0f 3 from Gambero rosso – a rare thing! Think $34.95 for a great Barolo! But please be patient with it.
TRAVAGLINI GATTINARA 2003 - WS Top 100 Wine – It’s OK. dried flowers and very ripe fruits, with a Christmas pudding undertone. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, rich finish. A little Port-like, but rich and impressive. Best after 2010. Score - 91. $29.95
The Big Ticket Items of the week
Zenato Amarone – would be my pick among the Amarones
ANTINORI PIAN DELLE VIGNE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 DOCG, Unfiltered – always a great wine! Drink while the Theme from the Godfather is playing! 91. $63.95
LE SERRE NUOVE DELL'ORNELLAIA 2006, a blend of Merlot, Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc and Petit Verdot, is a bright and fruity wine with red and black berries tinged by subtle oak flavours of chocolate and clove. Previous vintages have consistently been rated in the 90s by top wine critics. $59.95
LUCE DELLA VITE LUCE 2005 TASTING NOTE: Shows blackberry, dark chocolate and roasted coffee on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety, almost chewy tannins and lots of rich fruit that finishes with a vanilla bean and coffee aftertaste. Rich and delicious, but will be better with a few years of bottle age. Sangiovese and Merlot. Best after 2011. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Web Only, 2008) $99.95
Instore Discoveries
Christmas is coming so out come the big bottles including lots of high priced stuff for collectors including
JOSEPH PHELPS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 1500 mL A Big Bottle $151.95 -
My Picks ( including a white and a website):
HEDGES CELLARS CMS 2006 Columbia Valley, Wash. St. I like Hedges and I like Washington reds CabSauv, Merlot and Syrah should be soft and rich $17.95
DOG POINT VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2007 –Take two guys from a Cult Winery and a great vineyard location and you get as good a wine as Cloudy Bay at almost half the price! guava fruit, hints of basil and silky citrus mineral spine $21.95
ZONIN VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE RIPASSO 2006 – should be Really good $19.95
TEDESCHI CAPITEL DEI NICALO VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2006 – Never met a Capitel dei Nicalo I didn’t like – going back 7 years! $18.95
Not often I pick a website but https://www.vintagesshoponline.com/vintages/ has just opened up and beginning soon will be a new channel for all wine fans to access more varied options from the world, I hope!
The Rest
Lurton Reserva MAlbec – not sure why it’s a reserva – good for the price tho.13.95
Two Chilean Cabs at 19.95 and 22.95 – neither one as good as last week’s Pick – find it, there’s more around still.
CATHEDRAL CELLAR CHARDONNAY 2005 TASTING NOTE: smoky, oaky chardonnay. A bargain if you like smoke a rerelease I think$14.95
CATHEDRAL CELLAR SHIRAZ 2004 ... savoury with brambly fruit, well-dusted with black pepper; Measured opulence? I have to remember that one! It’ll get me laughed out of the kitchen! Very well priced $16.95
TWO HANDS LUCKY COUNTRY SHIRAZ 2006 – Standard Barossa Big fruit, well priced $17.95
WYNNS COONAWARRA ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 – Sorry I cannot recommend this – the 2002 was in the regular list at $20 bucks. Reduced to clear at $15 – what a buy! Can’t bring myself to spend this much for it now! $24.95 Score - 95. (Jeremy Oliver) No way! – maybe 89-90.
WAKEFIELD SHIRAZ 2006 Good value. Score - 90. $18.95
JACKSON-TRIGGS PROPRIETORS' GRAND RESERVE MERITAGE 2005 VQA Niagara – 2005 was a great year here. Intensely flavoured, medium full-bodied red , let it breath a bit. $24.95
ELDERTON SHIRAZ 2005. Single vineyard, nose of smoke, tar, licorice, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. Full-bodied and voluptuous,( sounds like Pam Anderson in a glass!) it is dense ( even more like Pam Anderson!) and concentrated, with gobs of spicy black fruit flavors.. $32.95
SEGHESIO ZINFANDEL 2006 BBQ wines. Always good- Shows robust black cherry and spice aromas and blackberry jam and licorice flavors. The tannins firm up the finish. Drink now through 2012. Score - 91. ($24.95) and BEAULIEU VINEYARD ZINFANDEL 2005 Want to compare two good Zin’s? Now is your chance! 25.95
NINO NEGRI SFURSAT VALTELLINA 2004 – 3 0f 3 from Gambero rosso – a rare thing! Think $34.95 for a great Barolo! But please be patient with it.
TRAVAGLINI GATTINARA 2003 - WS Top 100 Wine – It’s OK. dried flowers and very ripe fruits, with a Christmas pudding undertone. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, rich finish. A little Port-like, but rich and impressive. Best after 2010. Score - 91. $29.95
The Big Ticket Items of the week
Zenato Amarone – would be my pick among the Amarones
ANTINORI PIAN DELLE VIGNE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2003 DOCG, Unfiltered – always a great wine! Drink while the Theme from the Godfather is playing! 91. $63.95
LE SERRE NUOVE DELL'ORNELLAIA 2006, a blend of Merlot, Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc and Petit Verdot, is a bright and fruity wine with red and black berries tinged by subtle oak flavours of chocolate and clove. Previous vintages have consistently been rated in the 90s by top wine critics. $59.95
LUCE DELLA VITE LUCE 2005 TASTING NOTE: Shows blackberry, dark chocolate and roasted coffee on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety, almost chewy tannins and lots of rich fruit that finishes with a vanilla bean and coffee aftertaste. Rich and delicious, but will be better with a few years of bottle age. Sangiovese and Merlot. Best after 2011. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Web Only, 2008) $99.95
Instore Discoveries
Christmas is coming so out come the big bottles including lots of high priced stuff for collectors including
JOSEPH PHELPS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 1500 mL A Big Bottle $151.95 -
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Vintages October 11th Release - Super!!!!
A spectacular release if you’re a fan of fruit driven, big wines. Almost too many to mention at prices from $15 thru ‘the sky’s the limit’. There are so many good ones to choose (or to choose from) that I’m going to shorten my notes. This big red bigot has a cornucopia of cabernets, a sheaf of shiraz, a sack full of sangiovese, a big batch of blends, indeed a plethora of pleasant picks this week. Almost any cork you pull will make you happy, and lord knows we need that!
Top Picks: too many to choose! Pirramimma Shiraz, Ripa Delle More, Santa Rita Reserva Cab or the Vacqueyras or the the Thorn Clarke or Briccotondo or the Gamekeeper Reserve or the Peppoli or the Langmeil 3 Gardens GSM or the …(Oh, I could go on and on).
Under $20
SANTA RITA MEDALLA REAL RESERVA ESPECIAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005. A terrific value. Drink now through 2014. Score - 91. $19.95
Thorn Clarke Terra Barossa Great producer, great price! Drink now through 2013. Smart Buy. Score - 90. $15.95
FONTANAFREDDA BARBERA BRICCOTONDO 2007 DOC – Last year’s was a WS Top 100 and was terrific. According to the LCBO, this could be better, and a great price too. This’ll be lighter than any cabs or shiraz, it’ll be a good red for turkey and the price is right! $15.95
GRAHAM BECK GAMESKEEPER RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Last year’s was a terrific bargain and a very, very nice wine – fruit and tannins in fine balance – 88-90 from BP. $19.95
THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER 2007 – a 90 point wine, under $20 – very good. $17.95
Clos la Chance Ruby Throated Cabernet - a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot and 8% Merlot. A California cab, well priced at $17.95
RUST EN VREDE ESTATE MERLOT 2005 - WO Stellenbosch – great producer in a great area at a great price. $18.95
QUINTA DE VENTOZELO TOURIGA NACIONAL TINTO 2004 - A dark, brooding wine, the acidity and fruit are impressive. An Editor's Choice. Score - 90. $18.95
PASO A PASO TEMPRANILLO 2006: you’ll pucker, methinks. If you’re a Tempranillo fan, give it a shot…I’m not.$14.95
RINGBOLT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 I think there are better wines this week for the same price, but it is always good. $19.95
NORTON RESERVA MALBEC 2005 – if you have to have a malbec and missed the Luigi Bosca a few weeks ago, this is not a bad choice. $17.95
Under $30
Pirramimma Shiraz 2005 – Perennially, this is my Favourite Shiraz. $24.95
Elderton Cabernet 2005– Doug’s favourite Cab, but give it at least 6 months to a year in a quiet dark place – it’s very young. - $29.95
Langmeil Three Gardens GSM 2006 Shiraz (44%) - Grenache (35%) - Mourvedre (21%) – nice to compare this one to the Torbreck special LCBO release of a few months ago, or the Cuvee Juveniles in this release $21.95
TORBRECK CUVÉE JUVENILES 2006 a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Mataro, and 20% Shiraz. Drink this great value over the next 6 years. Score - 91. $29.95
CASTIGLIONI CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SANGIOVESE 2006 Used to be 19.95, but still a good value, just not quite as good.: 2008-2010. Score - 89. $23.95
ANTINORI PÈPPOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2005 Two sizes, always terrific - too bad it kind of gets lost in this release $21.95 and $12.95 for the little bottle.
Clos Montirius Vacqueyras Should be terrific but a wee bit expensive at $28.95
DOMAINE BELLE CROZES-HERMITAGE LES PIERELLES 2005 Northern Rhône red made with Syrah (a.k.a. Shiraz). $24.95
DOMAINE ROCHEVINE SAINT-JOSEPH 2005 - Another Syrah $27.95
$30 - $40
I’d match the following 3 against any 3 Brunellos and at 2/3rds the price!
CASTELLO VICCHIOMAGGIO RIPA DELLE MORE 2004 Super Tuscan, one of my favourite wines, have a sip or two, then let it breathe for two hours and come back to it. You’ll wonder who switched wines on you! Best after 2008. Score - 90. $38.95
AMPELEIA 2004 IGT Maremma Toscana - Should be another wine that’ll need time! Best after 2009.Score - 91. $37.95
TERRABIANCA PIANO DEL CIPRESSO 2004 IGT Toscana - the third of the 3 musketeers ( oh wait, the musketeers were French)...ah well,. $37.95
CCHIA AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA 2005 - Great price for an Amarone. $39.95
ALVARO PALACIOS LES TERRASSES 2006 A former WS Top 100 Wine. Priorat - Les Terrasses is highly scored and highly sought-after year after year. $39.95
SEÑORÍO DE P. PECIÑA RESERVA 1999 yes 1999 –Should be in it’s prime. $34.95
TINTO PESQUERA CRIANZA 2005best from 2012 to 2025. Score - 92. $30.95
The Big Spender Zone – if there are big spenders left after the carnage in the markets. The rule for these is lay them down for years or if you must drink them now, do so after decanting for at least 2 hours.
LA FERME DU MONT CÔTES CAPELAN CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2005 – A Classic year $45.95
E. GUIGAL CÔTE-RÔTIE BRUNE ET BLONDE 2004 a semi cult wine with notes of beef, dark olive and tobacco holding sway over the dark cherry and currant core. The smoky finish shows lots of tobacco and olive notes. Drink now through 2020. Score - 91. $69.95
PODERI COLLA BAROLO DARDI LE ROSE BUSSIA 2004. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2026. Score - 93. $59.95
TINTO PESQUERA RESERVA 2004, a thick, plush palate feel, gobs of fruit, and superb balance. it will be at its best in another 4-6 years and provide pleasure through 2030. Score - 94. $47.95
PENFOLDS RWT SHIRAZ 2005 – A massive Wine- but a massive price too! from 2010 through 2020. Score - 93. $133.95
Top Picks: too many to choose! Pirramimma Shiraz, Ripa Delle More, Santa Rita Reserva Cab or the Vacqueyras or the the Thorn Clarke or Briccotondo or the Gamekeeper Reserve or the Peppoli or the Langmeil 3 Gardens GSM or the …(Oh, I could go on and on).
Under $20
SANTA RITA MEDALLA REAL RESERVA ESPECIAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005. A terrific value. Drink now through 2014. Score - 91. $19.95
Thorn Clarke Terra Barossa Great producer, great price! Drink now through 2013. Smart Buy. Score - 90. $15.95
FONTANAFREDDA BARBERA BRICCOTONDO 2007 DOC – Last year’s was a WS Top 100 and was terrific. According to the LCBO, this could be better, and a great price too. This’ll be lighter than any cabs or shiraz, it’ll be a good red for turkey and the price is right! $15.95
GRAHAM BECK GAMESKEEPER RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Last year’s was a terrific bargain and a very, very nice wine – fruit and tannins in fine balance – 88-90 from BP. $19.95
THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER 2007 – a 90 point wine, under $20 – very good. $17.95
Clos la Chance Ruby Throated Cabernet - a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot and 8% Merlot. A California cab, well priced at $17.95
RUST EN VREDE ESTATE MERLOT 2005 - WO Stellenbosch – great producer in a great area at a great price. $18.95
QUINTA DE VENTOZELO TOURIGA NACIONAL TINTO 2004 - A dark, brooding wine, the acidity and fruit are impressive. An Editor's Choice. Score - 90. $18.95
PASO A PASO TEMPRANILLO 2006: you’ll pucker, methinks. If you’re a Tempranillo fan, give it a shot…I’m not.$14.95
RINGBOLT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 I think there are better wines this week for the same price, but it is always good. $19.95
NORTON RESERVA MALBEC 2005 – if you have to have a malbec and missed the Luigi Bosca a few weeks ago, this is not a bad choice. $17.95
Under $30
Pirramimma Shiraz 2005 – Perennially, this is my Favourite Shiraz. $24.95
Elderton Cabernet 2005– Doug’s favourite Cab, but give it at least 6 months to a year in a quiet dark place – it’s very young. - $29.95
Langmeil Three Gardens GSM 2006 Shiraz (44%) - Grenache (35%) - Mourvedre (21%) – nice to compare this one to the Torbreck special LCBO release of a few months ago, or the Cuvee Juveniles in this release $21.95
TORBRECK CUVÉE JUVENILES 2006 a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Mataro, and 20% Shiraz. Drink this great value over the next 6 years. Score - 91. $29.95
CASTIGLIONI CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SANGIOVESE 2006 Used to be 19.95, but still a good value, just not quite as good.: 2008-2010. Score - 89. $23.95
ANTINORI PÈPPOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2005 Two sizes, always terrific - too bad it kind of gets lost in this release $21.95 and $12.95 for the little bottle.
Clos Montirius Vacqueyras Should be terrific but a wee bit expensive at $28.95
DOMAINE BELLE CROZES-HERMITAGE LES PIERELLES 2005 Northern Rhône red made with Syrah (a.k.a. Shiraz). $24.95
DOMAINE ROCHEVINE SAINT-JOSEPH 2005 - Another Syrah $27.95
$30 - $40
I’d match the following 3 against any 3 Brunellos and at 2/3rds the price!
CASTELLO VICCHIOMAGGIO RIPA DELLE MORE 2004 Super Tuscan, one of my favourite wines, have a sip or two, then let it breathe for two hours and come back to it. You’ll wonder who switched wines on you! Best after 2008. Score - 90. $38.95
AMPELEIA 2004 IGT Maremma Toscana - Should be another wine that’ll need time! Best after 2009.Score - 91. $37.95
TERRABIANCA PIANO DEL CIPRESSO 2004 IGT Toscana - the third of the 3 musketeers ( oh wait, the musketeers were French)...ah well,. $37.95
CCHIA AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA 2005 - Great price for an Amarone. $39.95
ALVARO PALACIOS LES TERRASSES 2006 A former WS Top 100 Wine. Priorat - Les Terrasses is highly scored and highly sought-after year after year. $39.95
SEÑORÍO DE P. PECIÑA RESERVA 1999 yes 1999 –Should be in it’s prime. $34.95
TINTO PESQUERA CRIANZA 2005best from 2012 to 2025. Score - 92. $30.95
The Big Spender Zone – if there are big spenders left after the carnage in the markets. The rule for these is lay them down for years or if you must drink them now, do so after decanting for at least 2 hours.
LA FERME DU MONT CÔTES CAPELAN CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2005 – A Classic year $45.95
E. GUIGAL CÔTE-RÔTIE BRUNE ET BLONDE 2004 a semi cult wine with notes of beef, dark olive and tobacco holding sway over the dark cherry and currant core. The smoky finish shows lots of tobacco and olive notes. Drink now through 2020. Score - 91. $69.95
PODERI COLLA BAROLO DARDI LE ROSE BUSSIA 2004. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2026. Score - 93. $59.95
TINTO PESQUERA RESERVA 2004, a thick, plush palate feel, gobs of fruit, and superb balance. it will be at its best in another 4-6 years and provide pleasure through 2030. Score - 94. $47.95
PENFOLDS RWT SHIRAZ 2005 – A massive Wine- but a massive price too! from 2010 through 2020. Score - 93. $133.95
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