“Affordable”, what a lovely word, especially if you are planning a big party. Any wines that come in at less than $20 ( or even better, less than $15) but taste like $25 or more fit this category in my book.
My Picks for the week:
Les Vignerons du Castelas 2007 Cotes du Rhone ($13.95) Back up the truck for this one.
Thorn-Clarke 2007 Terra Barossa Cuvee ($14.95 ) Having a party? Load up!
Pierre Amadieu 2007 La Grangeliere Vacqueyras ($21.95) – Just over the $20 mark, but a wonderful vintage and an upgrade over the normal Cotes Du Rhone.
Argentina
Zuccardi ‘Q’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 $19.95 Fuzion’s Bigger, Cabernet brother
Vina Cobos Felino 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.95) – I expect a juicy, rich wine.
Australia
Thorn-Clarke 2007 Terra Barossa Cuvee ($14.95 ) Having a party? Load up!
Thorn-Clarke 2007 Shotfire Quartage ($23.95) Should be lots going on here. Consider it the big brother to Terra Barossa
Gemtree Vineyards 2008 Bloodstone Shiraz-Viognier $17.95
Elderton Friends – you can’t go wrong here
Yalumba Shiraz/Viognier - very nice
Pirammimma Cab - alway s one of my preferred Aussie producers. Their Shiraz is a biannual WS Top 100.
Grant Burge 2007 Filsell Old Vine Shiraz ($29.95) OK so it’s over the affordable ceiling but it’s always very good ( and Big)
Chile
Montes Alpha Cabernet 2007 – Watch out, there might still be some ’06 hanging around too. Try them both!
Concha Y Toro 2007 Winemaker’s Lot 115 Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95) – I’m a big Concha Y Toro fan…
France – Red …
Pierre Amadieu 2007 La Grangeliere Vacqueyras ($21.95) – Just over the $20 mark, but a wonderful vintage and an upgrade over the normal Cotes Du Rhone.
Les Vignerons du Castelas 2007 Cotes du Rhone ($13.95) Back up the truck for this one. .
Perrin Vinsobres Les Cornuds - should be superb
Italy – Red …
Antinori 2004 Pian Delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino ($67.95) –
La Braccesca Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2006 ($27.95)
Renzo Masi Chianti 2007 ($13.95) great price, great vintage in Chianti – Think Cotes du Rhone made with Sangiovese
A-Mano Primitivo 2007 $15.95 – Should be a good one for bargain Zin Fans
Tedeschi ‘Capitel dei Nicalò’ Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2007 - $16.95 – Still a fave, just so many others available too
Spain – Red …
Castell Del Remei Gotim Bru 2006 ($19.95) – Normally a 90 pointer from Parker but in the past, I haven’t ‘got it’
Las Rocas Garnacha 2006 – flew out of the stores in the last release of it.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
Now that's more like it! Kudos to the Vintages team for this release!!!
A spectacular release with so many ( too many) great wines from which to choose:
My Picks are MONTE ANTICO SANGIOVESE/MERLOT/CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 The Bargain of the release $14.95
THORN-CLARKE SHOTFIRE SHIRAZ 2008. $23.95
TORBRECK OLD VINES GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/MOURVÈDRE 2006 TASTING NOTE: $20.95
TWO HANDS BELLA'S GARDEN SHIRAZ 2007 $63.95
OSOYOOS LAROSE LE GRAND VIN 2006 Probably the best one yet! $39.95
LE VIEUX DONJON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2007.. lay it down for 5 years at least! $59.95
CASTELGIOCONDO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2004 Best after 2011. Score – 95. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2009) 375 mL $26.95 750 mL $49.95
BERONIA RESERVA 2005 . $17.95
DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS PÉTALOS 2007. Saturated purple in color,- interesting, last years was pomegranate/ cranberry tones – either way it should be terrific $23.95
With very near top pick ratings going to :
WALLACE BY BEN GLAETZER SHIRAZ/GRENACHE 2007 $24.95
GEMTREE UNCUT SHIRAZ 2007: $24.95
KATNOOK ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $29.95
RINGBOLT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $19.95
Arboleda CARMENÈRE Comes highly recommended, especially if you’re off on a sea cruise! $16.95
VASSE FELIX CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006. $29.95
HEARTLAND DIRECTORS' CUT SHIRAZ 2007 $31.95
Brancaia Ilatraia – ISD - 92 pts - WS
LE SERRE NUOVE DELL'ORNELLAIA 2007 1500ml $129.95
LE SERRE NUOVE DELL'ORNELLAIA 2007 TASTING NOTE: 3000 mL $274.95
And still more good ones right here!
7 DEADLY ZINS 2007 $24.95
DYNAMITE VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005: $15.95
FAMIGLIA BIANCHI MALBEC - Always great and well priced $14.95
TERRAZAS DE LOS ANDES MALBEC RESERVA 2007 TASTING NOTE: Score - 89. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2009) $19.95
TRIVENTO AMADO SUR 2007) $16.95
CAFÉ CULTURE PINOTAGE 2009 A Coffee Cult cult wine $13.95
CATHEDRAL CELLAR TRIPTYCH 2006 . $16.95
LA VITE LUCENTE 2007 $39.95
LE SERRE NUOVE DELL' ORNELLAIA 2007 $59.95
PAPA LUNA 2007 Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2009) $16.95
My Picks are MONTE ANTICO SANGIOVESE/MERLOT/CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 The Bargain of the release $14.95
THORN-CLARKE SHOTFIRE SHIRAZ 2008. $23.95
TORBRECK OLD VINES GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/MOURVÈDRE 2006 TASTING NOTE: $20.95
TWO HANDS BELLA'S GARDEN SHIRAZ 2007 $63.95
OSOYOOS LAROSE LE GRAND VIN 2006 Probably the best one yet! $39.95
LE VIEUX DONJON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2007.. lay it down for 5 years at least! $59.95
CASTELGIOCONDO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2004 Best after 2011. Score – 95. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2009) 375 mL $26.95 750 mL $49.95
BERONIA RESERVA 2005 . $17.95
DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS PÉTALOS 2007. Saturated purple in color,- interesting, last years was pomegranate/ cranberry tones – either way it should be terrific $23.95
With very near top pick ratings going to :
WALLACE BY BEN GLAETZER SHIRAZ/GRENACHE 2007 $24.95
GEMTREE UNCUT SHIRAZ 2007: $24.95
KATNOOK ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $29.95
RINGBOLT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $19.95
Arboleda CARMENÈRE Comes highly recommended, especially if you’re off on a sea cruise! $16.95
VASSE FELIX CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006. $29.95
HEARTLAND DIRECTORS' CUT SHIRAZ 2007 $31.95
Brancaia Ilatraia – ISD - 92 pts - WS
LE SERRE NUOVE DELL'ORNELLAIA 2007 1500ml $129.95
LE SERRE NUOVE DELL'ORNELLAIA 2007 TASTING NOTE: 3000 mL $274.95
And still more good ones right here!
7 DEADLY ZINS 2007 $24.95
DYNAMITE VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005: $15.95
FAMIGLIA BIANCHI MALBEC - Always great and well priced $14.95
TERRAZAS DE LOS ANDES MALBEC RESERVA 2007 TASTING NOTE: Score - 89. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2009) $19.95
TRIVENTO AMADO SUR 2007) $16.95
CAFÉ CULTURE PINOTAGE 2009 A Coffee Cult cult wine $13.95
CATHEDRAL CELLAR TRIPTYCH 2006 . $16.95
LA VITE LUCENTE 2007 $39.95
LE SERRE NUOVE DELL' ORNELLAIA 2007 $59.95
PAPA LUNA 2007 Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2009) $16.95
Friday, October 9, 2009
The Vintages October 10th release - Not Bad, but I'll wait
Not a bad release but having seen the next one, I’m saving my money for it. If I were to spend, I’d buy the two Shiraz from OZ or something from the west coast, there are three Cali offerings that look good, as well as a couple from the Okanagan.
From Italy, I like some of them, but again, they are overshadowed by the release of the 24th.
ITALIA
Malgrà Fornace di Cerreto Barbera d’Asti Superiore 2006 $17.95
Le Arche Ripasso Valpolicella 2007 $17.95
Terra d’Aligi ‘Tatone’ Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2005 $15.95
Tenuta di Capraia Chianti Classico 2006 $19.95
Trerose Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2006 DOCG Vino Nobile di Montepulciano $24.95
Ontari-ari-ario
Inniskillin ‘Winemaker’s Series Montague Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2007 - A good turkey choice methinks$18.95
BC
Burrowing Owl Pinot Gris 2007 - luv those BC-gris!$27.95
Sumac Ridge ‘Black Sage Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 $23.95
CALIFORNIA
Candor ‘Lot 1’ Merlot California $18.95
Leese-Fitch Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 California $17.95 - This might be the best bargain in the release.
Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 $22.95
Chile
Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $17.95 - Interesting to compare this one and the Leese Fitch
OZ
Bishop by Ben Glaetzer Shiraz 2007 Barossa Valley - Massive, Elderton or Ebeneezer flavour profile - $29.95
Shingleback Shiraz 2006 McLaren Vale - Terrific producer, great region $23.95
SPAIN
Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez ‘Tinto Pesquera Crianza’ 2006 $29.95
THE BIG BUCKS
Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez ‘Tinto Pesquera Reserva’ 2005 $47.95
Miguel Torres ‘Mas La Plana’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 $44.95
Frescobaldi Castello di Nipozzano Mormoreto 2006 $29.95 375mL $59.95 750 mL
FATTOI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2004 DOCG earthy and decadent - 90. $38.95
IL GRIGIO DA SAN FELICE CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2005. Drink now. Score - 90. $28.95
COLLAZZI 2005 92 points- $46.95
IN STORE DISCOVERIES
A couple of BC Beauts, but the Sandhill is overpriced here.
JACKSON-TRIGGS PROPRIETORS' GRAND RESERVE MERITAGE 2006 OKANAGAN $24.95
SANDHILL SMALL LOTS CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SYRAH 2006 OKANAGAN, $30.95
From Italy, I like some of them, but again, they are overshadowed by the release of the 24th.
ITALIA
Malgrà Fornace di Cerreto Barbera d’Asti Superiore 2006 $17.95
Le Arche Ripasso Valpolicella 2007 $17.95
Terra d’Aligi ‘Tatone’ Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2005 $15.95
Tenuta di Capraia Chianti Classico 2006 $19.95
Trerose Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2006 DOCG Vino Nobile di Montepulciano $24.95
Ontari-ari-ario
Inniskillin ‘Winemaker’s Series Montague Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2007 - A good turkey choice methinks$18.95
BC
Burrowing Owl Pinot Gris 2007 - luv those BC-gris!$27.95
Sumac Ridge ‘Black Sage Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 $23.95
CALIFORNIA
Candor ‘Lot 1’ Merlot California $18.95
Leese-Fitch Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 California $17.95 - This might be the best bargain in the release.
Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 $22.95
Chile
Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $17.95 - Interesting to compare this one and the Leese Fitch
OZ
Bishop by Ben Glaetzer Shiraz 2007 Barossa Valley - Massive, Elderton or Ebeneezer flavour profile - $29.95
Shingleback Shiraz 2006 McLaren Vale - Terrific producer, great region $23.95
SPAIN
Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez ‘Tinto Pesquera Crianza’ 2006 $29.95
THE BIG BUCKS
Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez ‘Tinto Pesquera Reserva’ 2005 $47.95
Miguel Torres ‘Mas La Plana’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 $44.95
Frescobaldi Castello di Nipozzano Mormoreto 2006 $29.95 375mL $59.95 750 mL
FATTOI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2004 DOCG earthy and decadent - 90. $38.95
IL GRIGIO DA SAN FELICE CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2005. Drink now. Score - 90. $28.95
COLLAZZI 2005 92 points- $46.95
IN STORE DISCOVERIES
A couple of BC Beauts, but the Sandhill is overpriced here.
JACKSON-TRIGGS PROPRIETORS' GRAND RESERVE MERITAGE 2006 OKANAGAN $24.95
SANDHILL SMALL LOTS CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SYRAH 2006 OKANAGAN, $30.95
Friday, September 25, 2009
Vintages Sept. 26 Release - Now that's more like it!
A better release, featuring mostly overpriced Californians, a big batch of Bordeaux from cheap to exhorbitant, and a nice cross section of mid priced whites and reds from around the world.
The Whites
DOG POINT VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 – ANYONE WHO READS ME KNOWS THAT PERENNIALLY I LIKE THIS WINE – just great with seafood. $19.95
SILENI CELLAR SELECTION PINOT GRIS 2009 – I’m going to recommend this one without trying it first. The review makes it seem like one of my BC favourites – the Kettle Valley Pinot Gris $16.95
MARTIN STEIMER PINOT GRIS 2008 - Try it, you might like it - $17.95
CASA DE VILA VERDE VINHO VERDE For a slightly different white $13.95
Lets have a Chard-fest!
LE CLOS JORDANNE TALON RIDGE VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2007 -Yadda, yadda , yadda, Ontario cult wine, yadda yadda $37.00
and now 3 good Chards to compare heads up
TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA CHARDONNAY 2007 $19.95
JACKSON-TRIGGS OKANAGAN ESTATE PROPRIETORS' GRAND RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2006 $19.95
CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE CHARDONNAY 2008 $17.95
MONTES LIMITED SELECTION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 $14.95 – Should be good, but not in the Dog Point's class.
The Reds
Ontario
ANGELS GATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Ontario's 2005 Vintage was almost as good as the ’07 $19.95
B.C.
SUMAC RIDGE BLACK SAGE VINEYARD MERLOT 2006 $19.95
Argentina
ALAMOS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2008 - A TERRIFIC BARGAIN ALWAYS - $13.95
CLOS DE LOS SIETE 2007 – A TERRIFIC WINE – BIG, FRUITY AND WITH A LITTLE DECANTING, READY TO DRINK. REPORTS ON THIS BAD BOY HAVE HIM BEING A TANNIC BRUISER SO GIVE IT TIME IN A TUB AND THROW ON A STEAK! $23.95
LUIGI BOSCA RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 - THE BOSCA RESERVA MALBEC, ALSO IN THIS RELEASE IS A FAVOURITE. I EXPECT THE SAME FROM THE CABERNET - 89. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Jan./Feb. 2009) $16.95
LUIGI BOSCA RESERVA MALBEC 2006 - I LIKE THIS WINE. This vintage is no exception!- 90(+?). (Stephen Tanzer Jan./Feb. 2009) $16.95
MAIPE MALBEC 2008 – A tremendous review for a $12.95 wine. Snap some up, it’ll be gone fast, I’m sure! Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2008) $12.95
Australia
PILLAR BOX RED 2007- SHIRAZ/CAB/ MERLOT FROM OZ – A GOOD BUY - Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2009) $17.95
My Rhone Pick
TERRES D'AVIGNON CARDINALICES CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 – EVERY 2007 COTES DU RHONE THAT I’VE HAD HAS SENT ME BACK FOR MORE. I EXPECT THE SAME FROM THIS ONE – AT THIS PRICE, BACK UP THE TRUCK! $13.95
Italy
ILLUMINATI RIPAROSSO MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO Very good wine for the price. Score - 88. $13.95
TRAVAGLINI GATTINARA 2003 Second time around for this wine and vintage. It made it on to Wine Spectator's list of the Top 100 Wines of 2007. Needs to be left alone in the cellar for a few years though. Or open it at noon to serve at 6:00pm. Score - 91. (James Suckling) $27.95
SASSO AL POGGIO 2004. Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet. Best after 2009. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com) $23.95
ORNELLAIA LE VOLTE 2007 - Always tasty – a bit overpriced against some of the bargains available in this release. $27.95
ZENATO VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE 2007 – QUALITY PRODUCER, WELL PRICED. $16.95
Spain
BERONIA ELABORACIÓN ESPECIAL TEMPRANILLO 2007 Elaboración Especial (special production) refers to the barrel fermentation this wine undergoes over several months in new American oak. Previous Beronias were super values for the quality in the glass.$16.95
CONDADO DE HAZA CRIANZA 2006 – Last year’s also made the WS Top100. Terrific quality, lots of fruit. Decant to let it breathe a bit. Score - 92. (Josh Raynolds, Sept./Oct. 2008) $27.95
OK, Ok, one Californian
NAPA CELLARS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 – THE REVIEW READS LIKE IT MIGHT BE ON PAR WITH A $20 CHILEAN – WE SHALL SEE. $21.95
IN STORE DISCOVERIES – SO THESE’LL BE IN VERY LIMITED STORES AND QUANTITIES
SANDHILL PHANTOM CREEK VINEYARD MALBEC 2006 You can buy a lot of terrific malbec from Argentina for $30 bucks ( almost two Luigi Bosca’s for instance) but sometimes you just have to try something because it’s there. This is one of those things! A Malbec from the Okanagan @ $29.95
THE BIG BUCK ONES:
ALMOST ANYTHING FROM CALIFORNIA
ORNELLAIA (IN A VARIETY OF SIZES BY THE WAY!) STARTING AT $174.95
RUFFINO DUCALE ORO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2005 $43.95
The Whites
DOG POINT VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 – ANYONE WHO READS ME KNOWS THAT PERENNIALLY I LIKE THIS WINE – just great with seafood. $19.95
SILENI CELLAR SELECTION PINOT GRIS 2009 – I’m going to recommend this one without trying it first. The review makes it seem like one of my BC favourites – the Kettle Valley Pinot Gris $16.95
MARTIN STEIMER PINOT GRIS 2008 - Try it, you might like it - $17.95
CASA DE VILA VERDE VINHO VERDE For a slightly different white $13.95
Lets have a Chard-fest!
LE CLOS JORDANNE TALON RIDGE VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2007 -Yadda, yadda , yadda, Ontario cult wine, yadda yadda $37.00
and now 3 good Chards to compare heads up
TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA CHARDONNAY 2007 $19.95
JACKSON-TRIGGS OKANAGAN ESTATE PROPRIETORS' GRAND RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2006 $19.95
CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE CHARDONNAY 2008 $17.95
MONTES LIMITED SELECTION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 $14.95 – Should be good, but not in the Dog Point's class.
The Reds
Ontario
ANGELS GATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Ontario's 2005 Vintage was almost as good as the ’07 $19.95
B.C.
SUMAC RIDGE BLACK SAGE VINEYARD MERLOT 2006 $19.95
Argentina
ALAMOS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2008 - A TERRIFIC BARGAIN ALWAYS - $13.95
CLOS DE LOS SIETE 2007 – A TERRIFIC WINE – BIG, FRUITY AND WITH A LITTLE DECANTING, READY TO DRINK. REPORTS ON THIS BAD BOY HAVE HIM BEING A TANNIC BRUISER SO GIVE IT TIME IN A TUB AND THROW ON A STEAK! $23.95
LUIGI BOSCA RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 - THE BOSCA RESERVA MALBEC, ALSO IN THIS RELEASE IS A FAVOURITE. I EXPECT THE SAME FROM THE CABERNET - 89. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Jan./Feb. 2009) $16.95
LUIGI BOSCA RESERVA MALBEC 2006 - I LIKE THIS WINE. This vintage is no exception!- 90(+?). (Stephen Tanzer Jan./Feb. 2009) $16.95
MAIPE MALBEC 2008 – A tremendous review for a $12.95 wine. Snap some up, it’ll be gone fast, I’m sure! Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2008) $12.95
Australia
PILLAR BOX RED 2007- SHIRAZ/CAB/ MERLOT FROM OZ – A GOOD BUY - Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2009) $17.95
My Rhone Pick
TERRES D'AVIGNON CARDINALICES CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 – EVERY 2007 COTES DU RHONE THAT I’VE HAD HAS SENT ME BACK FOR MORE. I EXPECT THE SAME FROM THIS ONE – AT THIS PRICE, BACK UP THE TRUCK! $13.95
Italy
ILLUMINATI RIPAROSSO MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO Very good wine for the price. Score - 88. $13.95
TRAVAGLINI GATTINARA 2003 Second time around for this wine and vintage. It made it on to Wine Spectator's list of the Top 100 Wines of 2007. Needs to be left alone in the cellar for a few years though. Or open it at noon to serve at 6:00pm. Score - 91. (James Suckling) $27.95
SASSO AL POGGIO 2004. Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet. Best after 2009. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com) $23.95
ORNELLAIA LE VOLTE 2007 - Always tasty – a bit overpriced against some of the bargains available in this release. $27.95
ZENATO VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE 2007 – QUALITY PRODUCER, WELL PRICED. $16.95
Spain
BERONIA ELABORACIÓN ESPECIAL TEMPRANILLO 2007 Elaboración Especial (special production) refers to the barrel fermentation this wine undergoes over several months in new American oak. Previous Beronias were super values for the quality in the glass.$16.95
CONDADO DE HAZA CRIANZA 2006 – Last year’s also made the WS Top100. Terrific quality, lots of fruit. Decant to let it breathe a bit. Score - 92. (Josh Raynolds, Sept./Oct. 2008) $27.95
OK, Ok, one Californian
NAPA CELLARS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 – THE REVIEW READS LIKE IT MIGHT BE ON PAR WITH A $20 CHILEAN – WE SHALL SEE. $21.95
IN STORE DISCOVERIES – SO THESE’LL BE IN VERY LIMITED STORES AND QUANTITIES
SANDHILL PHANTOM CREEK VINEYARD MALBEC 2006 You can buy a lot of terrific malbec from Argentina for $30 bucks ( almost two Luigi Bosca’s for instance) but sometimes you just have to try something because it’s there. This is one of those things! A Malbec from the Okanagan @ $29.95
THE BIG BUCK ONES:
ALMOST ANYTHING FROM CALIFORNIA
ORNELLAIA (IN A VARIETY OF SIZES BY THE WAY!) STARTING AT $174.95
RUFFINO DUCALE ORO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2005 $43.95
Friday, September 11, 2009
The September 12 Vintages Release - Ho hum.....
A nice wide selection of Ontario Wines from Niagara and a few from PEC as well as a few underappreciated Portuguese selections highlight this release. I didn't see too much to get excited about.
MY PICKS
ERTA E CHINA ROSSO DI TOSCANA 2006 – A 90 POINT SCORE FROM JAMES SUCKLING FOR UNDER 15 BUCKS!!!! Get there early on Saturday, or late Friday evening and BACK UP THE TRUCK! If it's not that good, you can always return it! Dark chocolate, berry, mineral and strawberry aromas follow through to a full body, with soft tannins and a long, caressing finish. So good now. Sangiovese and CabSauv. Drink now. Score - 90. (James Suckling Oct. 15, 2008) $14.95
DOMAINE LAFOND ROC-EPINE LIRAC 2007 AC The 2007 Lirac Roc-Epine is a richly fruity effort offering hints of fresh black raspberries, cherries, licorice, and earth. With abundant fruit, full body as well as loads of character Score - 90-92. (Robert Parker Jr, Oct. 2008) $19.95
BENMARCO MALBEC 2006 Mendoza Had this one’s big brother out in BC. It was excellent and I expect this to be on par with the Kaiken or Luigi Bosca Reservas. You might want to decant it and be sure you serve it alongside something that once moo’ed. Purple-colored I expect judicious oak, smoke, and black cherry with enough tannin to allow several years of development. Score - 91+. (Jay Miller,2007) $19.95
ONTARIO
TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA MERLOT/CABERNET 2007 – THE BUZZ IS ALL OVER THE 2007 ONTARIO VINTAGE SO WHAT THE HECK – THIS IS A GOOD STARTING POINT. $19.95
You might also spring for the Clos Jordanne Pinot, or try the Rosehall Run or Huff Chardonnay to see how far the Prince Edward County wines have come in a very short time.
A couple of Spaniards that might be OK, don't buy too many without trying them first though:
MAS ESTELA QUINDALS 2005 The 2005 Quindals is 90% Garnacha, 5% Syrah, and 5% Carinena aged for 12 months in French oak – sort of a heavy on the Grenache Rhone blend….well priced and while I find Jay Miller’s scores a little inflated, 88+ is a great wine for under 20 bucks.. - 90+. (Jay MillerFeb. 2008) $19.95
TORREDEROS TINTO CRIANZA 2004 .. I do not expect a fruit bomb, but it looks interesting. Aromas of pencil lead, earth, mushroom, vanilla, and blackberry. Medium to full-bodied, it has excellent depth, length, and balance. Score - 91. (Jay Miller) $24.95
MY PICKS
ERTA E CHINA ROSSO DI TOSCANA 2006 – A 90 POINT SCORE FROM JAMES SUCKLING FOR UNDER 15 BUCKS!!!! Get there early on Saturday, or late Friday evening and BACK UP THE TRUCK! If it's not that good, you can always return it! Dark chocolate, berry, mineral and strawberry aromas follow through to a full body, with soft tannins and a long, caressing finish. So good now. Sangiovese and CabSauv. Drink now. Score - 90. (James Suckling Oct. 15, 2008) $14.95
DOMAINE LAFOND ROC-EPINE LIRAC 2007 AC The 2007 Lirac Roc-Epine is a richly fruity effort offering hints of fresh black raspberries, cherries, licorice, and earth. With abundant fruit, full body as well as loads of character Score - 90-92. (Robert Parker Jr, Oct. 2008) $19.95
BENMARCO MALBEC 2006 Mendoza Had this one’s big brother out in BC. It was excellent and I expect this to be on par with the Kaiken or Luigi Bosca Reservas. You might want to decant it and be sure you serve it alongside something that once moo’ed. Purple-colored I expect judicious oak, smoke, and black cherry with enough tannin to allow several years of development. Score - 91+. (Jay Miller,2007) $19.95
ONTARIO
TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA MERLOT/CABERNET 2007 – THE BUZZ IS ALL OVER THE 2007 ONTARIO VINTAGE SO WHAT THE HECK – THIS IS A GOOD STARTING POINT. $19.95
You might also spring for the Clos Jordanne Pinot, or try the Rosehall Run or Huff Chardonnay to see how far the Prince Edward County wines have come in a very short time.
A couple of Spaniards that might be OK, don't buy too many without trying them first though:
MAS ESTELA QUINDALS 2005 The 2005 Quindals is 90% Garnacha, 5% Syrah, and 5% Carinena aged for 12 months in French oak – sort of a heavy on the Grenache Rhone blend….well priced and while I find Jay Miller’s scores a little inflated, 88+ is a great wine for under 20 bucks.. - 90+. (Jay MillerFeb. 2008) $19.95
TORREDEROS TINTO CRIANZA 2004 .. I do not expect a fruit bomb, but it looks interesting. Aromas of pencil lead, earth, mushroom, vanilla, and blackberry. Medium to full-bodied, it has excellent depth, length, and balance. Score - 91. (Jay Miller) $24.95
Monday, August 31, 2009
August 29th, A late list! Forgive me, I'm just back from beautiful B.C.!
Ahh two weeks in God's country gives one a whole new perception of the LCBO when it comes to wine pricing, especially when you see some of the prices in the sale that started on Saturday!
We enjoyed some superb BC wines, Kettle Valley Pinot Gris, Quail's Gate Rose and JT's Sun Rock Vineyard Shiraz jump to mind but I wasn't about to duplicate last year's 'wine in the suitcase' fiasco so not much made the return trip to the east.
So back to the business at hand, some good ones in this past weekend's release:
Three from South America
ALAMOS MALBEC 2008 Mendoza - Great value, I’m not sure it’s an 89 but …. Score - 89. (Bruce Stephen, North Shore Outlook (B.C.), $13.95
SANTA JULIA SYRAH ROSÉ 2008 Mendoza- a great buy for a late summer rose $11.95
APALTAGUA ENVERO GRAN RESERVA 2007 Colchagua Valley, Apalta Vineyard Selection This wine earned Gold Medals this year at both the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles and Monde Selection International Wine Contest. Made with Carmenère and a dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon, $15.95
Three from OZ
BALLAST STONE MERLOT 2006 – One of Gord Stimmel’s weekend picks - $16.95
BRANSON COACH HOUSE GREENOCK BLOCK SHIRAZ 2005 Barossa Valley, South AustraliaCould be an Ebeneezer at 15 bucks less – might be worth it to buy a box (of 6) if you can find it!. Score - 93. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com) $24.95
ROLF BINDER HEINRICH SHIRAZ/MATARO/GRENACHE 2006 – It’ll be interesting to compare this to the ChateauNeuf du PApes - $29.95
One lonely Italian
CECCHI VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2004 another One of Gord Stimmel’s weekend picks - $24.95
Two from Spain
ÈTIM SELECCIÓN 2006 – a 90 pointer at $15 bucks. Gotta be worth a buy!The 2006 Etim Seleccion is a blend of 60% Garnacha, 30% Carinena, [Carignan] and 10% Syrah aged for 6 months in seasoned French and American oak. If you want to experience Priorat without paying the price, this is the way to go. Score - 91. (Jay Miller, erobertparker.com,) $15
LAN GRAN RESERVA . Score - 90. (Thomas Matthews, www.winespectator.com,) $24.95
And three from the Rhone
LES GALETS ROUGES CHÂTEAU MOURGUES DU GRÈS 2007 $14.95
CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE HAUTE PIERRE 2007 DELAS – ageworthy $ 35.95 - 91 from WS and 92 from Parker.
VACQUEYRAS DOMAINE SAINT-PIERRE 2005 (91-93). (R. Parker erobertparker.com) $24.95
For now, I'll go for the Branson Coach House and go looking through the weekend sale list too.
We enjoyed some superb BC wines, Kettle Valley Pinot Gris, Quail's Gate Rose and JT's Sun Rock Vineyard Shiraz jump to mind but I wasn't about to duplicate last year's 'wine in the suitcase' fiasco so not much made the return trip to the east.
So back to the business at hand, some good ones in this past weekend's release:
Three from South America
ALAMOS MALBEC 2008 Mendoza - Great value, I’m not sure it’s an 89 but …. Score - 89. (Bruce Stephen, North Shore Outlook (B.C.), $13.95
SANTA JULIA SYRAH ROSÉ 2008 Mendoza- a great buy for a late summer rose $11.95
APALTAGUA ENVERO GRAN RESERVA 2007 Colchagua Valley, Apalta Vineyard Selection This wine earned Gold Medals this year at both the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles and Monde Selection International Wine Contest. Made with Carmenère and a dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon, $15.95
Three from OZ
BALLAST STONE MERLOT 2006 – One of Gord Stimmel’s weekend picks - $16.95
BRANSON COACH HOUSE GREENOCK BLOCK SHIRAZ 2005 Barossa Valley, South AustraliaCould be an Ebeneezer at 15 bucks less – might be worth it to buy a box (of 6) if you can find it!. Score - 93. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com) $24.95
ROLF BINDER HEINRICH SHIRAZ/MATARO/GRENACHE 2006 – It’ll be interesting to compare this to the ChateauNeuf du PApes - $29.95
One lonely Italian
CECCHI VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2004 another One of Gord Stimmel’s weekend picks - $24.95
Two from Spain
ÈTIM SELECCIÓN 2006 – a 90 pointer at $15 bucks. Gotta be worth a buy!The 2006 Etim Seleccion is a blend of 60% Garnacha, 30% Carinena, [Carignan] and 10% Syrah aged for 6 months in seasoned French and American oak. If you want to experience Priorat without paying the price, this is the way to go. Score - 91. (Jay Miller, erobertparker.com,) $15
LAN GRAN RESERVA . Score - 90. (Thomas Matthews, www.winespectator.com,) $24.95
And three from the Rhone
LES GALETS ROUGES CHÂTEAU MOURGUES DU GRÈS 2007 $14.95
CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE HAUTE PIERRE 2007 DELAS – ageworthy $ 35.95 - 91 from WS and 92 from Parker.
VACQUEYRAS DOMAINE SAINT-PIERRE 2005 (91-93). (R. Parker erobertparker.com) $24.95
For now, I'll go for the Branson Coach House and go looking through the weekend sale list too.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
August 15th Release - Not too much but to get excited about
Upon seeing the cover of the latest Vintages catalogue, " Chile's Brilliant Showstoppers", I thought OH BOY a batch of Smoking Wines , available in big quantities! But No, Marketing strikes again! What they meant to say was " These 3 Chilean varieties of grapes can sometimes result in making "Chile's Brilliant Showstoppers" but not in this Vintages catalogue! Ah well, there are a few good picks...
Chile focus
Santa Rita ‘Medalla Real’ Special Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Maipo Valley, Chile $19.95 – Always a favourite – let it breathe for a while and have a big slab of something red!
Laura Hartwig Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Colchagua Valley, Chile $13.95 – Well priced!Tabalí Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $14.95
Two nice chard’s, expensive for Chile, but s.b. good.Cono Sur ‘20 Barrels’ Chardonnay 2007 Chile $24.95 –Montes Alpha Chardonnay 2007 Chile $22.95
Best of the Rest!Burrowing Owl Syrah 2005 VQA Okanagan Valley $48.95 – AS close to a cult wine as we get here in the GWN – buy one for a special occasion or if you want to impress a visitor with our wines. Just don’t tell them what you paid…the Ebeneezer is more wine for less.
Barossa Valley Estate ‘Ebenezer’ Shiraz 2004 Barossa Valley, South Australia $39.95 Stupendous wine, always a real mouthful!
Kendall-Jackson ‘Vintner’s Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 California $24.95 – Always tasty
Barossa Valley Estate ‘Ebenezer’ Cabernet – almost as good for you Cab fans. Definitely a Barossa cab!
George Wyndham ‘Founder’s Reserve’ Shiraz 2005 $22.95 Lots of medals-well priced
Château Roquetaillade ‘La Grange Vielles Vignes’ 2005 $21.95 Always a 90 pointer in WS. At this price, I’d buy one…me, a Bordeaux? I must need a break!
Frescobaldi 'Tenuta di Castiglioni' Cabernet Sauvignon/Sangiovese 2006 IGT Toscana $21.95 Take off another couple of $$’s and it’ll be priced right. Otherwise, stick to the Chilean Cabs.Chile focus
Chile focus
Santa Rita ‘Medalla Real’ Special Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Maipo Valley, Chile $19.95 – Always a favourite – let it breathe for a while and have a big slab of something red!
Laura Hartwig Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Colchagua Valley, Chile $13.95 – Well priced!Tabalí Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $14.95
Two nice chard’s, expensive for Chile, but s.b. good.Cono Sur ‘20 Barrels’ Chardonnay 2007 Chile $24.95 –Montes Alpha Chardonnay 2007 Chile $22.95
Best of the Rest!Burrowing Owl Syrah 2005 VQA Okanagan Valley $48.95 – AS close to a cult wine as we get here in the GWN – buy one for a special occasion or if you want to impress a visitor with our wines. Just don’t tell them what you paid…the Ebeneezer is more wine for less.
Barossa Valley Estate ‘Ebenezer’ Shiraz 2004 Barossa Valley, South Australia $39.95 Stupendous wine, always a real mouthful!
Kendall-Jackson ‘Vintner’s Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 California $24.95 – Always tasty
Barossa Valley Estate ‘Ebenezer’ Cabernet – almost as good for you Cab fans. Definitely a Barossa cab!
George Wyndham ‘Founder’s Reserve’ Shiraz 2005 $22.95 Lots of medals-well priced
Château Roquetaillade ‘La Grange Vielles Vignes’ 2005 $21.95 Always a 90 pointer in WS. At this price, I’d buy one…me, a Bordeaux? I must need a break!
Frescobaldi 'Tenuta di Castiglioni' Cabernet Sauvignon/Sangiovese 2006 IGT Toscana $21.95 Take off another couple of $$’s and it’ll be priced right. Otherwise, stick to the Chilean Cabs.Chile focus
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