An abbreviated report of the March 20th release. Sorry for the late report but I’m just back from a week of not much wine in Costa Rica with my two bronzed beauties. We did have lots of Imperiales (beer) and one not bad Viu Manent Malbec Rose.
On our last night a Luigi Bosca 2007 Reserve Malbec was the perfact way to end our vacation. The latter accompanied some great tapas, classical guitar playing and flamenco dancers in the San Jose Marriot Hotel. What a hotel! It was the perfect end to a wonderful week! A night there is highly recommended to anyone with a morning flight out of San Jose. You’ll need to be very calm for that experience!
Ahhh but back to reality now!. There were some beauties in this release at the $15.00 Price Point as well as a few more sub $30’s that are even better, but perhaps not that much better!
A fizzie to start - SANTA JULIA EXTRA BRUT $14.95The other under $15.00 gems:
D’ARENBERG THE STUMP JUMP SHIRAZ 2008 $14.95
RENZO MASSI ERTA E CHINA 2007 $14.95
DOMAINE CROZE-GRANIER CUVÉE RÉSERVE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 $14.95
ROCCA DELLE MACÌE CHIANTI RISERVA 2005 $15.00
The Best of the rest, in my order of preference
JIM BARRY THE LODGE HILL SHIRAZ 2007 $24.95
SANTA CAROLINA RESERVA DE FAMILIA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $19.95
DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VIEILLES VIGNES VACQUEYRAS 2007 $23.95
RINGBOLT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $19.95
FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA DIRECTOR’S CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $29.95
RANCHO ZABACO SONOMA HERITAGE VINES ZINFANDEL 2007 $19.95
MONSANTO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2006 $28.95
Two from Portugal for under 12 dollars! CASA DO LAGO 2006 and REDONDO LATITUDE WEST 2008 both $11.95
And if money is no object, chase this one down:TENUTA DI CASTELGIOCONDO LAMAIONE 2006 IGT Toscana
(Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) TASTING NOTE: Dark in color, with intense aromas of mineral, spice, blackberry and coffee bean. Full-bodied, with a wonderful core of ripe fruit and velvety tannins. Polished and very beautiful, with a lovely texture. A fantastic effort from the Frescobaldis. Best after 2011. Score – 95. (James Suckling) $63.95
Monday, March 22, 2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010
A Chilean release of epic proportions - NOT!
A Chilean release punctuated by the presence of a couple of nice Carmeneres, but otherwise a pretty nondescript batch of wines for a highlighted wine country. I hope the Chilean photo montage was provided by the Chilean tourism board and not the result of a fat, all expenses covered contract paid by the LCBO to some bureaucrat’s brother in law. Talk about a colossal waste of paper.
Rant done, there are some good wines in the overall release but it is nothing special. If you miss this release, don’t lose any sleep!
My Picks:
RIVERA CAPPELLACCIO RISERVA AGLIANICO 2004 $17.95
TEDESCHI CAPITEL DEI NICALÒ APPASSIMENTO VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2007
$16.95
GEYSER PEAK BLOCK COLLECTION WALKING TREE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $29.95
MONTES ALPHA CARMENÈRE 2007 19.95
The Best of the rest,
The Whites
PENINSULA RIDGE RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2007 Earned Gold at the 2009 Ontario Wine Awards and from the wonderful ’07 vintage. $24.95
EMILIANA NOVAS WINEMAKER’S SELECTION CHARDONNAY/VIOGNIER/MARSANNE 2007
Organically Grown Grapes Some floral, ginger aromas. Fullbodied white wine, nice floral notes with a vanilla. Score – Silver Medal. (Decanter) $18.95
MULDERBOSCH CHARDONNAY 2006 … fresh, with bright orange blossom, white peach, melon and fig notes woven together with an elegant stitching of grilled hazelnut. The long finish has nice buried acidity. Drink now. Score – 90. (James Molesworth,) $21.95
ERRÁZURIZ SINGLE VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 It is an excellent value. $14.95
And NOW the REDS
The Italians
RIVERA CAPPELLACCIO RISERVA AGLIANICO 2004 DOC Castel del Monte
TASTING NOTE: simply superb as dense layers of perfumed, jammy dark fruit flow from the glass in convincing style … Suggestions of violets, minerals, menthol and earthiness linger on the powerful yet refined finish. 92. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertpar -ker.com, April 2009) $17.95
CENNATOIO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2006 DOCG Dried flowers, with blackberry and dried cherry, lead to a full body, with chewy tannins and a long, rich finish. Needs time to open. Score – 90. (James Suckling,) $24.95
CASTELLO DI MELETO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2007 TASTING NOTE: The 2007 Chianti Classico is
a sweet, fragrant offering redolent of perfumed red fruits. In this vintage it is especially soft and generous, and I would prefer to enjoy the wine on the young side. The Chianti Classico is 90% Sangiovese, 5% Colorino and 5% Merlot that spends 12 months in cask. 19.95
TEDESCHI CAPITEL DEI NICALÒ APPASSIMENTO VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2007
a blend of 30% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 30% Rondinella, and the remaining 10% is a combination of Rossignola, Oseleta, Negrara and Dindarella. The wine is richer than traditional Ripassos.and has been a perennial fave since, ummm, well since it was $14! $16.95
The Chileans
Chile is trying to make Carmenere its signature grape in the way Malbec has become Argentina’s. To my palate, a very nice Carmenere is superb. A bad one is drek. It does blend nicely, it was once one of the bit players among the 6 Bordeaux grapes ( which mostly have now become 5) but rarely held centre stage there. There are some good ones in today’s release:
MONTES ALPHA CARMENÈRE 2007 A Wine of the Month so there’ll be lots allowing you to try a bottle and get more if you like it. The review says, a superb aromatic array of spice, lavender, incense, smoke, and blueberry. Layered, plush, and concentrated, it has excellent depth and grip, Score – 91..$19.95
ERRÁZURIZ SINGLE VINEYARD DON MAXIMIANO ESTATE CARMENÈRE 2008 Deep ruby colour with raspberry, smoke, sweet herbs (marjoram), blueberry, vanilla and spice. Dry,intensely fruity and spicy, with balancing acids and mid-palate tannins. The fruit smooths the whole package out beautifully. Full bodied with a surprisingly long finish. Ageable 2-4+ years, but would make a lovely match tonight with roast leg of lamb.$18.95
MONTES LIMITED SELECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON/CARMENÈRE 2008, Apalta Vineyard TASTING NOTE: The purple-colored 2008 Cabernet-Carmenere Limited Selection offers a reticent perfume of spice box, lavender, black cherry, and blueberry. With a firm under-pinning and spicy, savory flavors, it is likely to evolve for 1-2 years and offer pleasurable drinking from 2010 to 2016. $14.95
TABALÍ RESERVA MERLOT 2006 Limarí Valley Gord Stimmell liked this one saying: A stunning value red, one of the best buys in today’s release. Big black cherry,vanilla, violets and cedar aromas. Rich flavours showing black currants, black cherry, mocha and vanilla bean. His palate usually matches mine (or vice versa) - Score – 90+. (Gordon Stimmell,) $14.95
The rest of the world
Château de Fontenelles ‘Cuvée Renaissance’ 2006 - One of the Wines of the month – should be good and pretty well priced, from Corbières $19.95
Domaine Galévan ‘Paroles de Femme’ Côtes du Rhône 2007 A rerelease of the one of last year’s very pleasant Cotes du Rhones $15.00
MULDERBOSCH FAITHFUL HOUND 2005 WO Stellenbosch: A full blown 5 yr old Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. this is smoky, with incense and coffee aromas and a palate of red currant, crushed plum and boysenberry fruit, layered with additional cocoa, grilled herb and mineral notes. The long finish lets both the fruit and herb notes linger. Drink now through 2011. Score – 90. (James Molesworth,) $20.95
GEYSER PEAK BLOCK COLLECTION WALKING TREE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 I like the Geyser Peak wines especially their reserves. Grapes used in this wine are from a specific block within a specific vineyard ….tannins and ageability always characterize this Cab, which contains a splash of Syrah. it’s very dry, with herb-infused cherry and currant flavors, and new oak plays only a supporting role. It’s really an elegant wine …. An Editors’ Choice. Score – 91. (Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast,) $29.95
KAIKEN ULTRA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 Mendoza Expect it to improve further still over the next 2-3 years in bottle, or enjoy it tonight with herbed roast beef served rare. $19.95
ROSEMOUNT SHOW RESERVE GSM 2006: On the plus side, this wine used to be a favourite of mine – think of an Aussie Chateauneuf du Pape. But on the down side, this vintage (or is it the winemaker?) might not be up to previous ones and it is expensive considering the Aussie wine glut. As well, I can’t get my head around the new label and bottle – I don’t like either one. Both have cheapened the image of the product I think. $34.95
THE ONE LONELY Recommended IN STORE DISCOVERY – A transfer in from the VSO website, this one might be worth hunting down!
PRATESI CARMIONE 2005 IGT Rosso Toscana The intensity of this powerhouse Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend is outstanding, and so is the density of its aromas. It presents a solid wall of blackberry, dark chocolate, pipe tobacco and cigar box. It's bold and syrupy and overwhelms the palate with its enormous bounty. Score - 93. (Monica Larner, Wine Enthusiast, April 2008)$44.00
Rant done, there are some good wines in the overall release but it is nothing special. If you miss this release, don’t lose any sleep!
My Picks:
RIVERA CAPPELLACCIO RISERVA AGLIANICO 2004 $17.95
TEDESCHI CAPITEL DEI NICALÒ APPASSIMENTO VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2007
$16.95
GEYSER PEAK BLOCK COLLECTION WALKING TREE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 $29.95
MONTES ALPHA CARMENÈRE 2007 19.95
The Best of the rest,
The Whites
PENINSULA RIDGE RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2007 Earned Gold at the 2009 Ontario Wine Awards and from the wonderful ’07 vintage. $24.95
EMILIANA NOVAS WINEMAKER’S SELECTION CHARDONNAY/VIOGNIER/MARSANNE 2007
Organically Grown Grapes Some floral, ginger aromas. Fullbodied white wine, nice floral notes with a vanilla. Score – Silver Medal. (Decanter) $18.95
MULDERBOSCH CHARDONNAY 2006 … fresh, with bright orange blossom, white peach, melon and fig notes woven together with an elegant stitching of grilled hazelnut. The long finish has nice buried acidity. Drink now. Score – 90. (James Molesworth,) $21.95
ERRÁZURIZ SINGLE VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008 It is an excellent value. $14.95
And NOW the REDS
The Italians
RIVERA CAPPELLACCIO RISERVA AGLIANICO 2004 DOC Castel del Monte
TASTING NOTE: simply superb as dense layers of perfumed, jammy dark fruit flow from the glass in convincing style … Suggestions of violets, minerals, menthol and earthiness linger on the powerful yet refined finish. 92. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertpar -ker.com, April 2009) $17.95
CENNATOIO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2006 DOCG Dried flowers, with blackberry and dried cherry, lead to a full body, with chewy tannins and a long, rich finish. Needs time to open. Score – 90. (James Suckling,) $24.95
CASTELLO DI MELETO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2007 TASTING NOTE: The 2007 Chianti Classico is
a sweet, fragrant offering redolent of perfumed red fruits. In this vintage it is especially soft and generous, and I would prefer to enjoy the wine on the young side. The Chianti Classico is 90% Sangiovese, 5% Colorino and 5% Merlot that spends 12 months in cask. 19.95
TEDESCHI CAPITEL DEI NICALÒ APPASSIMENTO VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2007
a blend of 30% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 30% Rondinella, and the remaining 10% is a combination of Rossignola, Oseleta, Negrara and Dindarella. The wine is richer than traditional Ripassos.and has been a perennial fave since, ummm, well since it was $14! $16.95
The Chileans
Chile is trying to make Carmenere its signature grape in the way Malbec has become Argentina’s. To my palate, a very nice Carmenere is superb. A bad one is drek. It does blend nicely, it was once one of the bit players among the 6 Bordeaux grapes ( which mostly have now become 5) but rarely held centre stage there. There are some good ones in today’s release:
MONTES ALPHA CARMENÈRE 2007 A Wine of the Month so there’ll be lots allowing you to try a bottle and get more if you like it. The review says, a superb aromatic array of spice, lavender, incense, smoke, and blueberry. Layered, plush, and concentrated, it has excellent depth and grip, Score – 91..$19.95
ERRÁZURIZ SINGLE VINEYARD DON MAXIMIANO ESTATE CARMENÈRE 2008 Deep ruby colour with raspberry, smoke, sweet herbs (marjoram), blueberry, vanilla and spice. Dry,intensely fruity and spicy, with balancing acids and mid-palate tannins. The fruit smooths the whole package out beautifully. Full bodied with a surprisingly long finish. Ageable 2-4+ years, but would make a lovely match tonight with roast leg of lamb.$18.95
MONTES LIMITED SELECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON/CARMENÈRE 2008, Apalta Vineyard TASTING NOTE: The purple-colored 2008 Cabernet-Carmenere Limited Selection offers a reticent perfume of spice box, lavender, black cherry, and blueberry. With a firm under-pinning and spicy, savory flavors, it is likely to evolve for 1-2 years and offer pleasurable drinking from 2010 to 2016. $14.95
TABALÍ RESERVA MERLOT 2006 Limarí Valley Gord Stimmell liked this one saying: A stunning value red, one of the best buys in today’s release. Big black cherry,vanilla, violets and cedar aromas. Rich flavours showing black currants, black cherry, mocha and vanilla bean. His palate usually matches mine (or vice versa) - Score – 90+. (Gordon Stimmell,) $14.95
The rest of the world
Château de Fontenelles ‘Cuvée Renaissance’ 2006 - One of the Wines of the month – should be good and pretty well priced, from Corbières $19.95
Domaine Galévan ‘Paroles de Femme’ Côtes du Rhône 2007 A rerelease of the one of last year’s very pleasant Cotes du Rhones $15.00
MULDERBOSCH FAITHFUL HOUND 2005 WO Stellenbosch: A full blown 5 yr old Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. this is smoky, with incense and coffee aromas and a palate of red currant, crushed plum and boysenberry fruit, layered with additional cocoa, grilled herb and mineral notes. The long finish lets both the fruit and herb notes linger. Drink now through 2011. Score – 90. (James Molesworth,) $20.95
GEYSER PEAK BLOCK COLLECTION WALKING TREE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 I like the Geyser Peak wines especially their reserves. Grapes used in this wine are from a specific block within a specific vineyard ….tannins and ageability always characterize this Cab, which contains a splash of Syrah. it’s very dry, with herb-infused cherry and currant flavors, and new oak plays only a supporting role. It’s really an elegant wine …. An Editors’ Choice. Score – 91. (Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast,) $29.95
KAIKEN ULTRA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 Mendoza Expect it to improve further still over the next 2-3 years in bottle, or enjoy it tonight with herbed roast beef served rare. $19.95
ROSEMOUNT SHOW RESERVE GSM 2006: On the plus side, this wine used to be a favourite of mine – think of an Aussie Chateauneuf du Pape. But on the down side, this vintage (or is it the winemaker?) might not be up to previous ones and it is expensive considering the Aussie wine glut. As well, I can’t get my head around the new label and bottle – I don’t like either one. Both have cheapened the image of the product I think. $34.95
THE ONE LONELY Recommended IN STORE DISCOVERY – A transfer in from the VSO website, this one might be worth hunting down!
PRATESI CARMIONE 2005 IGT Rosso Toscana The intensity of this powerhouse Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend is outstanding, and so is the density of its aromas. It presents a solid wall of blackberry, dark chocolate, pipe tobacco and cigar box. It's bold and syrupy and overwhelms the palate with its enormous bounty. Score - 93. (Monica Larner, Wine Enthusiast, April 2008)$44.00
Friday, February 19, 2010
Feb 27th Vintages Sale - just a reminder and a recommendation
Remember the next big Vintages sale is next weekend.
Also, had a terrific red last weekend, recommended by my favourite Vintages consultant (and you know who you are!).
It was APOLLONIO VALLE CUPA 2001
Rich, dark and voluptuous, a tremendous mouthfilling 50/50 blend of Negroamaro and Primitivo, it is crammed with dark, brambly fruits and liqourice character. Now why am I thinking of Prince and Purple Rain - no wait that was Appollonia! Ah but she was dark and voluptuous too!
But I digress, the wine was perfect with Lamb Shanks done Osso Bucco-esque style over Couscous. At $19.95, this could have been a $40 to $50 Super Tuscan just as easily. Check the LCBO site to find some.
Also, had a terrific red last weekend, recommended by my favourite Vintages consultant (and you know who you are!).
It was APOLLONIO VALLE CUPA 2001
Rich, dark and voluptuous, a tremendous mouthfilling 50/50 blend of Negroamaro and Primitivo, it is crammed with dark, brambly fruits and liqourice character. Now why am I thinking of Prince and Purple Rain - no wait that was Appollonia! Ah but she was dark and voluptuous too!
But I digress, the wine was perfect with Lamb Shanks done Osso Bucco-esque style over Couscous. At $19.95, this could have been a $40 to $50 Super Tuscan just as easily. Check the LCBO site to find some.
February 20th - Rhone reds and some other terrific buys
Some great wines and some real sub $15 values highlight this week’s release. From the Southern Rhone come 2 Gigondas that I expect to be outstanding accompanied by some terrific Cotes Du Rhones and Vacqueyras .
An earlier release of the baby Super Tuscan Monte Antico was great at $12.95, it’ll be interesting to see if it maintains the pace now that it’s a couple of $’s more!
Picks from the Rhone
ORTAS GIGONDAS 2007$23.95
DOMAINE DE DIEUMERCY CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 AC This wine earned the highest honours at the 2008 Concours des Vins Orange: a Gold Medal with Congratulations from the Jury. $12.95
DOMAINE LA GARRIGUE VACQUEYRAS 2007 $22.95
DOMAINE DU GRAPILLON D’OR 1806 GIGONDAS 2007 $31.95
Rest of the Rhone
TERRES D’AVIGNON LES CARDINALICES GRANDE RÉSERVE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 AC $14.95
LES VIGNERONS DE ROAIX ROAIX CÔTES DU RHÔNEVILLAGES 2007 AC Winner of a Gold Medal at
the 2008 Concours des Grands Vins de France. $13.95
LES VIGNERONS DU CASTELAS VIEILLES VIGNES SIGNARGUES CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES 2007
AC A Gold Medal winner at the 2008 Concours des Vins Gardois 2008 $13.95
DOMAINE SAINT-PIERRE VACQUEYRAS 2006 AC TASTING NOTE: One of the stars of the vintage, the 2006
Vacqueyras possesses a deep ruby/purple color, fabulous stuffing, a superb, full-bodied mouthfeel, and a long, heady finish displaying a classic Provencal combination of black fruits intermixed with lavender, garrigue, and forest floor. It should be consumed over the next 5-8 years. Score – 92. (Robert Parker $25.95
DOMAINE DU GRAPILLON D’OR 1806 GIGONDAS 2007 AC TASTING NOTE: A superb offering, but needs some time to come around or open it and decant really early! The 2007 Gigondas 1806 reveals a saturated purple color, terrific fruit intensity (boysenberries, blueberries, black raspberries, plums), a juicy, full-bodied mouthfeel, an unevolved style, good minerality, refreshing acidity, and a boatload of concentration and glycerin. 92 RP $31.95
Best of the Rest
TRAPICHE FINCAS LAS PALMAS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 A notch above the usually excellent Broquel line from Trapiche, this one has a pedigree – should be terrific if you like big Cabs! $19.95
THORN-CLARKE TERRA BAROSSA SHIRAZ 2008 Barossa, South Australia You are getting Barossa fruit at a terrific price - enjoy tonight, decanted, with grilled rare steak. $15.95
TWO HANDS ANGELS’ SHARE SHIRAZ 2008 McLaren Vale, South Australia Give this a year or so to rest in a cool dark place then enjoy it with anything grilled. You'll really enjoy the big smokey fruit driven offering from a terrific producer $24.95
MONTE ANTICO SANGIOVESE/MERLOT/ CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 IGT Toscana Formerly an unbeatable value, now $2 more than when originally released, this wine made Wine Spectator’s list of the Top 100 Wines of 2009, ranking #61. It is very good value – but are these the dregs or still the previous quality? TASTING NOTE: Full-bodied, with fine tannins and refined berry and cherry flavors. Very upfront, and perhaps a little short on the finish but for the price – wow. Drink now. Score – 90. James Suckling, $15.00
SANTA JULIA RESERVA MALBEC 2008 Mendoza – Always great value for the money! Score – 88. $13.95
CASTELLO DI QUERCETO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2006 DOCG TASTING NOTE: Offers black cherry and blackberry notes, with lilac. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a lovely finish of dark chocolate, smoky wood and berry. Drink now. Score – 90. James Suckling $29.95
VIÑA LA ROSA LA CAPITANA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2008 Chile - Another great value from previous years. Look for a purple tongue the next morning - not exactly a Robert Parker type review, but you're getting what you pay for here! $15.95
RAVENSWOOD VINTNERS BLEND CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 Always well priced - Match it to a winter-barbecued steak or grilled lamb chops. $17.95
FRANCISCAN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Napa Valley Here’s a quintessential Napa Valley Cab. A touch of Merlot and a smidge of Petit Verdot are used to fill out this fine, beef-friendly wine. It will also reward 2-4 years in a cellar. $29.95
ROCCA DELLE MACÌE CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2005 Winner of a Silver Medal at the 2008 Mundus Vini, in Germany. TASTING NOTE: Ripe fruit flavors and aromas of black cherry, plum, Indian spice, cola and black tea characterize this Riserva. The wine has good structure and tight tannins and offers impressive fruit intensity in the mouth. Sergio Zingarelli’s sunny personality seems to shine bright in this luminous wine from his storied Chianti Classico estate. Score – 89. (Monica Larner, Wine Enthusiast, June 2009) 930966 (XD) 750 mL $21.95
VALPANTENA TORRE DEL FALASCO RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA 2006 DOC, Veneto, Italy $17.95
DOMINUS2006 Napa Valley (Christian Moueix) Those of you who will buy this, will buy it regardless of what I say, so I say, just invite me over when you open it! Score – 96. (Robert Parker Jr., Dec. 2008) $124. 1500 mL $259.95
3 Chardonnays
It’s always interesting to see how three different styles and origins compare:
CROIX DE MONTCEAU ST-VÉRAN 2008 AC Winner of a Gold Medal at the Concours des Grands Vins de France 2009. TASTING NOTE: An appealing Chardonnay with
pear, green apple, citrus and floral aromas. Dry and fruity with very good structure. This wellpriced
wine will mature nicely over the next few years. It will also make a happy companion for pork tenderloin, grilled prawns or roast stuffed chicken. (VINTAGES panel, Sept. 2009) $21.95
LE CLOS JORDANNE LE CLOS JORDANNE VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2007 VQA Niagara Peninsula, Twenty Mile Bench $40.00 – The Canuck icon.
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER’S RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2006 California TASTING NOTE:
Crisp orange marmalade and lemon oil notes as well as some tropical fruits always characterize this wine, which seems to show very little evidence of oak, with gorgeously lush fruit, and zesty acidity in a fresh, lively style. It’s a remarkable value. Score – 89. (Robert Parker Jr., $19.95
An earlier release of the baby Super Tuscan Monte Antico was great at $12.95, it’ll be interesting to see if it maintains the pace now that it’s a couple of $’s more!
Picks from the Rhone
ORTAS GIGONDAS 2007$23.95
DOMAINE DE DIEUMERCY CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 AC This wine earned the highest honours at the 2008 Concours des Vins Orange: a Gold Medal with Congratulations from the Jury. $12.95
DOMAINE LA GARRIGUE VACQUEYRAS 2007 $22.95
DOMAINE DU GRAPILLON D’OR 1806 GIGONDAS 2007 $31.95
Rest of the Rhone
TERRES D’AVIGNON LES CARDINALICES GRANDE RÉSERVE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 AC $14.95
LES VIGNERONS DE ROAIX ROAIX CÔTES DU RHÔNEVILLAGES 2007 AC Winner of a Gold Medal at
the 2008 Concours des Grands Vins de France. $13.95
LES VIGNERONS DU CASTELAS VIEILLES VIGNES SIGNARGUES CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES 2007
AC A Gold Medal winner at the 2008 Concours des Vins Gardois 2008 $13.95
DOMAINE SAINT-PIERRE VACQUEYRAS 2006 AC TASTING NOTE: One of the stars of the vintage, the 2006
Vacqueyras possesses a deep ruby/purple color, fabulous stuffing, a superb, full-bodied mouthfeel, and a long, heady finish displaying a classic Provencal combination of black fruits intermixed with lavender, garrigue, and forest floor. It should be consumed over the next 5-8 years. Score – 92. (Robert Parker $25.95
DOMAINE DU GRAPILLON D’OR 1806 GIGONDAS 2007 AC TASTING NOTE: A superb offering, but needs some time to come around or open it and decant really early! The 2007 Gigondas 1806 reveals a saturated purple color, terrific fruit intensity (boysenberries, blueberries, black raspberries, plums), a juicy, full-bodied mouthfeel, an unevolved style, good minerality, refreshing acidity, and a boatload of concentration and glycerin. 92 RP $31.95
Best of the Rest
TRAPICHE FINCAS LAS PALMAS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 A notch above the usually excellent Broquel line from Trapiche, this one has a pedigree – should be terrific if you like big Cabs! $19.95
THORN-CLARKE TERRA BAROSSA SHIRAZ 2008 Barossa, South Australia You are getting Barossa fruit at a terrific price - enjoy tonight, decanted, with grilled rare steak. $15.95
TWO HANDS ANGELS’ SHARE SHIRAZ 2008 McLaren Vale, South Australia Give this a year or so to rest in a cool dark place then enjoy it with anything grilled. You'll really enjoy the big smokey fruit driven offering from a terrific producer $24.95
MONTE ANTICO SANGIOVESE/MERLOT/ CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 IGT Toscana Formerly an unbeatable value, now $2 more than when originally released, this wine made Wine Spectator’s list of the Top 100 Wines of 2009, ranking #61. It is very good value – but are these the dregs or still the previous quality? TASTING NOTE: Full-bodied, with fine tannins and refined berry and cherry flavors. Very upfront, and perhaps a little short on the finish but for the price – wow. Drink now. Score – 90. James Suckling, $15.00
SANTA JULIA RESERVA MALBEC 2008 Mendoza – Always great value for the money! Score – 88. $13.95
CASTELLO DI QUERCETO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2006 DOCG TASTING NOTE: Offers black cherry and blackberry notes, with lilac. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a lovely finish of dark chocolate, smoky wood and berry. Drink now. Score – 90. James Suckling $29.95
VIÑA LA ROSA LA CAPITANA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2008 Chile - Another great value from previous years. Look for a purple tongue the next morning - not exactly a Robert Parker type review, but you're getting what you pay for here! $15.95
RAVENSWOOD VINTNERS BLEND CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 Always well priced - Match it to a winter-barbecued steak or grilled lamb chops. $17.95
FRANCISCAN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Napa Valley Here’s a quintessential Napa Valley Cab. A touch of Merlot and a smidge of Petit Verdot are used to fill out this fine, beef-friendly wine. It will also reward 2-4 years in a cellar. $29.95
ROCCA DELLE MACÌE CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2005 Winner of a Silver Medal at the 2008 Mundus Vini, in Germany. TASTING NOTE: Ripe fruit flavors and aromas of black cherry, plum, Indian spice, cola and black tea characterize this Riserva. The wine has good structure and tight tannins and offers impressive fruit intensity in the mouth. Sergio Zingarelli’s sunny personality seems to shine bright in this luminous wine from his storied Chianti Classico estate. Score – 89. (Monica Larner, Wine Enthusiast, June 2009) 930966 (XD) 750 mL $21.95
VALPANTENA TORRE DEL FALASCO RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA 2006 DOC, Veneto, Italy $17.95
DOMINUS2006 Napa Valley (Christian Moueix) Those of you who will buy this, will buy it regardless of what I say, so I say, just invite me over when you open it! Score – 96. (Robert Parker Jr., Dec. 2008) $124. 1500 mL $259.95
3 Chardonnays
It’s always interesting to see how three different styles and origins compare:
CROIX DE MONTCEAU ST-VÉRAN 2008 AC Winner of a Gold Medal at the Concours des Grands Vins de France 2009. TASTING NOTE: An appealing Chardonnay with
pear, green apple, citrus and floral aromas. Dry and fruity with very good structure. This wellpriced
wine will mature nicely over the next few years. It will also make a happy companion for pork tenderloin, grilled prawns or roast stuffed chicken. (VINTAGES panel, Sept. 2009) $21.95
LE CLOS JORDANNE LE CLOS JORDANNE VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2007 VQA Niagara Peninsula, Twenty Mile Bench $40.00 – The Canuck icon.
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER’S RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2006 California TASTING NOTE:
Crisp orange marmalade and lemon oil notes as well as some tropical fruits always characterize this wine, which seems to show very little evidence of oak, with gorgeously lush fruit, and zesty acidity in a fresh, lively style. It’s a remarkable value. Score – 89. (Robert Parker Jr., $19.95
Friday, February 5, 2010
The Feb.06, 2010 release - Lots and lots going on!
A superior release by our government friends. It doesn't really matter what your preference is, there'll be someting for you this weekend. The highlights are a couple of WS Top 20's, but there are so many supporting values at substantially less $$ that your taste buds are bound to come away satisfied! Here are my choices in decending order:
Renato Ratti BAROLO 2005 DOCG, Piedmont This Barolo was number 7 on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list of 2009.– 96.(James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, $ 49.95 – There’ll be battles on going for this one for the score and the fact it was a top10.
ELDERTON ODE TO LORRAINE, CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SHIRAZ/MERLOT 2005 – Had the 2004 and it was all you’d expect from a big Barossa blend – this year ranked #16 on Wine Spectator’s list – 95 points Harvey Steiman,$ 42.95
PERRIN & FILS LES CHRISTINS VACQUEYRAS 2007 One of my favourites. Had an ’05 on Saturday– tremendous – fruit and finesse - 90. (JamesMolesworth $ 22.95
OPI A.K.A. RODOLFO SADLER MALBEC 2008 Fabulous Bargain: Dark, rich cassis fruit with some oak. … juicy fruit on the tongue with complex earth and woodland tones, plus tingly tannins and a long and surprisingly elegant finish. Score – Trophy Winner. (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2009) All this for $12.95??? Back up that truck if you can find it!!!!If it doesn't live up to it, remember you can return it but for $ 12.95???
CASTELLO DI MONASTERO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2006 DOCG, Tuscany A long, lovely red. Best after 2010. Score – 91. (James Suckling,www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2009) $ 24.95
2006 BUIL & GINÉ GINÉ GINÉ - $17.95
JUAN GIL TINTO 2006 $ 21.95
ATTEMS CUPRA RAMATO PINOT GRIGIO 2008 $19.95 - like the little hint o' pink
CONCHA Y TORO TRIO RESERVA CHARDONNAY/PINOT GRIGIO/PINOT BLANC 2008 $ 12.95 - if I was more of a white fan, this would be top 5!
LUIGI BOSCA SINGLE VINEYARD MALBEC 2006 Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina $ 18.95
NEDERBURG MANOR HOUSE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $16.95 – My bet for the sleeper of the release!
DELAS FRÈRES SAINT-ESPRIT CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 $14.95
DELAS FRÈRES LES LAUNES CROZES-HERMITAGE 2007 $ 19.95 – Had a ’98 of this with lamb shanks on the weekend. Still standing up well and ’07 was a tremendous vintage up and down the Rhone.
SEBASTIANI CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Sonoma County $ 19.95 – Usually a standout bargain from California
CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES 2007 $ 19.95
REMO FARINA MONTECORNA RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2005 $19.95
MÀS QUE VINOS ERCAVIO TEMPRANILLO ROBLE 2007 $16.95
ALTA VISTA ATEMPORAL ASSEMBLAGE 2007 $19.95
DOMAINE GRAND NICOLET VIEILLES VIGNES CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLLAGES RASTEAU 2007 21.95
Renato Ratti BAROLO 2005 DOCG, Piedmont This Barolo was number 7 on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list of 2009.– 96.(James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, $ 49.95 – There’ll be battles on going for this one for the score and the fact it was a top10.
ELDERTON ODE TO LORRAINE, CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SHIRAZ/MERLOT 2005 – Had the 2004 and it was all you’d expect from a big Barossa blend – this year ranked #16 on Wine Spectator’s list – 95 points Harvey Steiman,$ 42.95
PERRIN & FILS LES CHRISTINS VACQUEYRAS 2007 One of my favourites. Had an ’05 on Saturday– tremendous – fruit and finesse - 90. (JamesMolesworth $ 22.95
OPI A.K.A. RODOLFO SADLER MALBEC 2008 Fabulous Bargain: Dark, rich cassis fruit with some oak. … juicy fruit on the tongue with complex earth and woodland tones, plus tingly tannins and a long and surprisingly elegant finish. Score – Trophy Winner. (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2009) All this for $12.95??? Back up that truck if you can find it!!!!If it doesn't live up to it, remember you can return it but for $ 12.95???
CASTELLO DI MONASTERO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2006 DOCG, Tuscany A long, lovely red. Best after 2010. Score – 91. (James Suckling,www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2009) $ 24.95
2006 BUIL & GINÉ GINÉ GINÉ - $17.95
JUAN GIL TINTO 2006 $ 21.95
ATTEMS CUPRA RAMATO PINOT GRIGIO 2008 $19.95 - like the little hint o' pink
CONCHA Y TORO TRIO RESERVA CHARDONNAY/PINOT GRIGIO/PINOT BLANC 2008 $ 12.95 - if I was more of a white fan, this would be top 5!
LUIGI BOSCA SINGLE VINEYARD MALBEC 2006 Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina $ 18.95
NEDERBURG MANOR HOUSE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $16.95 – My bet for the sleeper of the release!
DELAS FRÈRES SAINT-ESPRIT CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 $14.95
DELAS FRÈRES LES LAUNES CROZES-HERMITAGE 2007 $ 19.95 – Had a ’98 of this with lamb shanks on the weekend. Still standing up well and ’07 was a tremendous vintage up and down the Rhone.
SEBASTIANI CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Sonoma County $ 19.95 – Usually a standout bargain from California
CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES 2007 $ 19.95
REMO FARINA MONTECORNA RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2005 $19.95
MÀS QUE VINOS ERCAVIO TEMPRANILLO ROBLE 2007 $16.95
ALTA VISTA ATEMPORAL ASSEMBLAGE 2007 $19.95
DOMAINE GRAND NICOLET VIEILLES VIGNES CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLLAGES RASTEAU 2007 21.95
Thursday, January 21, 2010
January 23rd Vintages Release - ForGaucho fans
The Best Buy right now is the Vintages Essential Marques De Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon – three dollars off at $16.95 but the sale ends on the 24th.
Otherwise a nice Argentina release of very good but nothing earth shattering, guaranteed to sell, Cab’s and Malbecs. However my picks are not from gaucho land. I like the Santa Rita Medalla Real Cab from Chile and the Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Riserva from a great 2006 Italian vintage.
Among the others, “the Show” from California has been well received, the Mulderbosch Sauvignon Blanc is always good and I like the blended Clos de Los Siete.
SANTA RITA MEDALLA REAL GRAN RESERVA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $ 19.95
BARONE RICASOLI ROCCA GUICCIARDA
CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2006 $24.95
THE SHOW
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $ 17.95
MULDERBOSCH SAUVIGNON BLANC
2009 $ 18.95
CLOS DE LOS SIETE 2007 $23.95
KAIKEN ULTRA MALBEC
2007 $ 19.95
ZUCCARDI Q MALBEC 2007
Mendoza, Argentina
$ 18.95
CATENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON and Malbec $ 19.95
VIÑA COBOS FELINO $ 19.95
ZUCCARDI Q
TEMPRANILLO 2006 $ 18.95
LA RÉSERVE DU CROUZAU
ST. GERVAIS 2007 $14.95
Next release is the annual '90pointer release' for those who keep score. There are a few real winners in that one.
Otherwise a nice Argentina release of very good but nothing earth shattering, guaranteed to sell, Cab’s and Malbecs. However my picks are not from gaucho land. I like the Santa Rita Medalla Real Cab from Chile and the Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Riserva from a great 2006 Italian vintage.
Among the others, “the Show” from California has been well received, the Mulderbosch Sauvignon Blanc is always good and I like the blended Clos de Los Siete.
SANTA RITA MEDALLA REAL GRAN RESERVA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $ 19.95
BARONE RICASOLI ROCCA GUICCIARDA
CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2006 $24.95
THE SHOW
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 $ 17.95
MULDERBOSCH SAUVIGNON BLANC
2009 $ 18.95
CLOS DE LOS SIETE 2007 $23.95
KAIKEN ULTRA MALBEC
2007 $ 19.95
ZUCCARDI Q MALBEC 2007
Mendoza, Argentina
$ 18.95
CATENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON and Malbec $ 19.95
VIÑA COBOS FELINO $ 19.95
ZUCCARDI Q
TEMPRANILLO 2006 $ 18.95
LA RÉSERVE DU CROUZAU
ST. GERVAIS 2007 $14.95
Next release is the annual '90pointer release' for those who keep score. There are a few real winners in that one.
Friday, January 8, 2010
A New Year and a New Bargain Release!
Another new year of picks and another January full of pretty good bargain wines. Remember too that January usually means a big Bin end sale, so watch for it.
My Top 5 Picks
MONTGRAS QUATRO 2007 Colchagua Valley TASTING NOTE: The 2007 Quatro is a blend of 30% Cabernet Sauv, 30% Malbec, 25% Carmenere, and 15% Syrah. Score – 89+. (Jay Miller, Oct. 08) $ 15.95
D’ARENBERG THE STUMP JUMP GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/ MOURVÈDRE 2008 – A WS Top 100 choice for under 15 bucks.$ 14.95
GIORDANO VESPERO 2005 IGT Toscana Rosso – My palate and Gord Stimmell’s often seem to match up so at this price for a Tuscan red it’ll be worth a try $ 16.95
TEDESCHI VIGNETO VALVERDE VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2007 DOC, Single Vineyard $ 14.95
CHÂTEAU DE VAUGELAS LE PRIEURÉ CORBIÈRES 2007 AC, Midi In 2009, this wine won a Gold Medal at the Concours des Grands Vins de France in Mâcon. $ 12.95 for a gold medal winner, should be worth a shot.
The Best of the rest!
LOS VASCOS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 Colchagua (Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite))
$ 13.95
GROVE STREET CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Sonoma County $ 17.95
ST. HALLETT SHIRAZ/GRENACHE 2008 – On par with the Stump Jump in past years.$ 14.95
SIMONSIG LABYRINTH CABERNET SAUV 2006 WO Stellenbosch -Great region and
producer for $15.95
GÉRARD BERTRAND GRAND TERROIR MONTPEYROUX 2007 – Good producer, just try one and if you like it, go back for more - $17.95
ROUGES DES KARANTES 2007 Score – 89. (Kim Marcus,.winespectator, May 31, 2009)$ 16.95
LINDEMANS RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Coonawarra, For Cab fans, well priced and a great region. $ 14.95
ORTAS TRADITION RASTEAU 2008 A Gold Medal winner at the 2009 Concours des Grands Vins de France in Mâcon. Ortas is always high on quality for this ‘named Cotes du Rhone Villages. $15.00
QUEEN OF SYRAH COOL CLIMATE SYRAH 2007 Vin de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes (Cave de Tain) $11.95 - If you are a syrah lover, this is a rarely seen example from the Northern Rhone.
The Big Dollar and ISD’s
SORI’ PAITIN BARBARESCO 2005
The only big dollar pick in the release ( other than the ISD’s) but be prepared to lay it down for a bit.$ 39.95
BANFI MANDRIELLE MERLOT 2004 DOC Sant'Antimo (3 out of 3). (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines, 2008) $42.00
BANFI TAVERNELLE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 DOC Sant'Antimo Score – 91. (Monica Larner, Wine Enthusiast, April 1, 2008) $45.00
IL DRAGO E LE SETTE COLOMBE 2004IGT Toscana A new wine. Il Drago ("the dragon") is consulting enologist Carlo Ferrini, and the seven doves are the women who work in the winery. Sangiovese, Merlot and Alicante. Best after 2009. Score – 92 $34.00
My Top 5 Picks
MONTGRAS QUATRO 2007 Colchagua Valley TASTING NOTE: The 2007 Quatro is a blend of 30% Cabernet Sauv, 30% Malbec, 25% Carmenere, and 15% Syrah. Score – 89+. (Jay Miller, Oct. 08) $ 15.95
D’ARENBERG THE STUMP JUMP GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/ MOURVÈDRE 2008 – A WS Top 100 choice for under 15 bucks.$ 14.95
GIORDANO VESPERO 2005 IGT Toscana Rosso – My palate and Gord Stimmell’s often seem to match up so at this price for a Tuscan red it’ll be worth a try $ 16.95
TEDESCHI VIGNETO VALVERDE VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2007 DOC, Single Vineyard $ 14.95
CHÂTEAU DE VAUGELAS LE PRIEURÉ CORBIÈRES 2007 AC, Midi In 2009, this wine won a Gold Medal at the Concours des Grands Vins de France in Mâcon. $ 12.95 for a gold medal winner, should be worth a shot.
The Best of the rest!
LOS VASCOS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 Colchagua (Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite))
$ 13.95
GROVE STREET CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Sonoma County $ 17.95
ST. HALLETT SHIRAZ/GRENACHE 2008 – On par with the Stump Jump in past years.$ 14.95
SIMONSIG LABYRINTH CABERNET SAUV 2006 WO Stellenbosch -Great region and
producer for $15.95
GÉRARD BERTRAND GRAND TERROIR MONTPEYROUX 2007 – Good producer, just try one and if you like it, go back for more - $17.95
ROUGES DES KARANTES 2007 Score – 89. (Kim Marcus,.winespectator, May 31, 2009)$ 16.95
LINDEMANS RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Coonawarra, For Cab fans, well priced and a great region. $ 14.95
ORTAS TRADITION RASTEAU 2008 A Gold Medal winner at the 2009 Concours des Grands Vins de France in Mâcon. Ortas is always high on quality for this ‘named Cotes du Rhone Villages. $15.00
QUEEN OF SYRAH COOL CLIMATE SYRAH 2007 Vin de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes (Cave de Tain) $11.95 - If you are a syrah lover, this is a rarely seen example from the Northern Rhone.
The Big Dollar and ISD’s
SORI’ PAITIN BARBARESCO 2005
The only big dollar pick in the release ( other than the ISD’s) but be prepared to lay it down for a bit.$ 39.95
BANFI MANDRIELLE MERLOT 2004 DOC Sant'Antimo (3 out of 3). (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines, 2008) $42.00
BANFI TAVERNELLE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 DOC Sant'Antimo Score – 91. (Monica Larner, Wine Enthusiast, April 1, 2008) $45.00
IL DRAGO E LE SETTE COLOMBE 2004IGT Toscana A new wine. Il Drago ("the dragon") is consulting enologist Carlo Ferrini, and the seven doves are the women who work in the winery. Sangiovese, Merlot and Alicante. Best after 2009. Score – 92 $34.00
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