The highlight of the weekend was a bottle of Frescobaldi's 2007 Tenuta di Castiglioni. This blend of Cab Sauv, Sangiovese, Merlot is traditionally an 89 - 90 point wine. An apparent addition of a bit of Cab Franc (and do I detect a drop of Petit Verdot) combined with the spectacular growing conditions of the 2007 vintage makes it an over the top bargain equivalent to Super Tuscans 3 times the price and more! At $21.95 it is a screaming buy. Rich, red and black fruit on the front of the palate, dark espresso flavours that ebb and flow then linger as the bottle is exposed to air. Tannins ,soft upon opening, gaining grip, then over a short time, softening again. Seems improbable but that's what I got. This wine will age and change gracefully if allowed to but who can wait? Buy cases.
Also over the weekend, we had a houseful of friends for a little pre Christmas cheer. Finger foods were the order of the day and ranged from cheeses ( brie, Bleu, and 6 year old cheddar), to coldcuts, to tortellinis on a skewer with a creamy pesto dip, to a full filet of beef BBQ'd for small, make your own sandwiches, thru sushi and all the way to chili. The filet was given an ample covering with cracked black pepper then coated with Barberian's steak spices and thrown onto a searing hot bbq. 8 minutes, one quarter turn for 3, one quarter turn for 8 then another quarter turn for 3 then off onto a platter and immediately covered in tin foil for 10 minutes more or so to let it rest. Winter BBQ'ing can be dicey time wise and heat wise, but this one turned out almost perfect - maybe a little too seared, but you have to keep the heat up when it's 0 degrees Celsius outside.
Wines served were Luigi Bosca Chardonnay, Luigi Bosca Malbec 2006, les Cardinalices du Rhone 2007, and a couple of Cabernets Sauvignons from Columbia Crest Two Vines to Rex Watson from OZ.
The Malbec seemed to be the overall favourite among the crowd, however the Cotes du Rhone more than held its own (poetry from the host). The malbec was terrific with the rare filet, the CdR a very tasty accompaniment to the basil infused flavours of the creamy pesto. The chardonnay seemed to go nicely with it too but I couldn't drag myself from the reds.
What a great time of year! To everyone who came and especially to everyone who so generously brought us a gift, thank you so much and a very, Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Last release of the year- Dec.05, 2009.
Ahhh technology, I'm ending the year by trying something new. Embedded links to the Vintages Catalogue...you might need to adjust your browser settings for this to work but let me know if you like this format or if you prefer the old tried and true list.
I've provided links to what I consider the good ones below, but my top picks right now are the Pirramimma Shiraz, Helfrich Pinot Gris, and Bertrand's L'Hospitalet but I might switch for a Cotes du Rhone(see note below), all under $20.
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/39
The Luigi Bosca reserve Chardonnay and the Le Mascota Cab from Argentina should both provide real pleasure at very reasonable prices.Both are $17.95
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/41
If you want to splurge on a big buck Cabernet, go for the Don Melchor. It's overpriced at $69.95 but what the hell, it's Christmas! This wine was in the mid -$40's a few years ago!
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/43
I don't think you can go wrong with any of the Aussie Shiraz or Shiraz Blends, but I've always been partial to the Pirramimma, and at $19.95 this is a superior product for the price.
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/44
Go for the Astrolabe Sauvignon Blanc from NZ if you're looking for something to acompany any seafood. $19.95
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/46
From France, the Helfrich Pinot Gris seems a wonderful buy at $13.95 for a WS 90 pointer!
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/49
Bertrand's Chateau L'Hospitalet 2005 was a fave two years ago. The '07 Vintage should be really good and it is one of my picks, but it did not stand out at the tasting according to a palate-wise Vintages Consultant friend of mine. So while it's still a pick, it'll be a 'buy one and taste it' pick to see how it stacks up. $19.95
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/50
Two Cotes du Rhones - One the WoM from the terrific Alain Jaume, Domaine Grand Veneur@$19.95, the other 5 bucks less, both should be very good.
And there are a number of Big Buck wines in this release - I'd go for the Don Melchor then stick it in the basement for a few years, but the Antinori Guado al Tasso is a close second at $89.95. The Schaefer One point Five and the Silver Oak are good but too much for me!
Proof that the economy is suffering, The Bacio Davino 'Call Me Crazy' has come down in price by $30 bucks from a few years ago - well LCBO price anyway.
Meantime, in spite of the Australian wine glut, The St. Henri is going the other way price wise. Kudos to Penfolds propaganda er sorry, marketing team for linking its origins to the wildly expensive Grange (making it "The Baby Grange" if you will) but sorry, it's just too much now.
And last but not least, remember, January's first release is usually a bargain release and there is usually a big bin end sale early in the new year so keep watching for it!
I've provided links to what I consider the good ones below, but my top picks right now are the Pirramimma Shiraz, Helfrich Pinot Gris, and Bertrand's L'Hospitalet but I might switch for a Cotes du Rhone(see note below), all under $20.
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/39
The Luigi Bosca reserve Chardonnay and the Le Mascota Cab from Argentina should both provide real pleasure at very reasonable prices.Both are $17.95
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/41
If you want to splurge on a big buck Cabernet, go for the Don Melchor. It's overpriced at $69.95 but what the hell, it's Christmas! This wine was in the mid -$40's a few years ago!
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/43
I don't think you can go wrong with any of the Aussie Shiraz or Shiraz Blends, but I've always been partial to the Pirramimma, and at $19.95 this is a superior product for the price.
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/44
Go for the Astrolabe Sauvignon Blanc from NZ if you're looking for something to acompany any seafood. $19.95
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/46
From France, the Helfrich Pinot Gris seems a wonderful buy at $13.95 for a WS 90 pointer!
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/49
Bertrand's Chateau L'Hospitalet 2005 was a fave two years ago. The '07 Vintage should be really good and it is one of my picks, but it did not stand out at the tasting according to a palate-wise Vintages Consultant friend of mine. So while it's still a pick, it'll be a 'buy one and taste it' pick to see how it stacks up. $19.95
http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/4768/50
Two Cotes du Rhones - One the WoM from the terrific Alain Jaume, Domaine Grand Veneur@$19.95, the other 5 bucks less, both should be very good.
And there are a number of Big Buck wines in this release - I'd go for the Don Melchor then stick it in the basement for a few years, but the Antinori Guado al Tasso is a close second at $89.95. The Schaefer One point Five and the Silver Oak are good but too much for me!
Proof that the economy is suffering, The Bacio Davino 'Call Me Crazy' has come down in price by $30 bucks from a few years ago - well LCBO price anyway.
Meantime, in spite of the Australian wine glut, The St. Henri is going the other way price wise. Kudos to Penfolds propaganda er sorry, marketing team for linking its origins to the wildly expensive Grange (making it "The Baby Grange" if you will) but sorry, it's just too much now.
And last but not least, remember, January's first release is usually a bargain release and there is usually a big bin end sale early in the new year so keep watching for it!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Christmas is coming...so are the big prices at your local LCBO
It’s the holidays. This week’s release is a great one to suck up to the boss with a big name, big buck Californian, but instead, why not suck up to yourself and pick up some of these fabulous wines for far, far less!
MARCHESI DE’ FRESCOBALDI TENUTA DI CASTIGLIONI 2007 IGT Toscana The buy of the release. Get out early and pick up a demi douzaine at the very least! But find a dark quiet cool spot for it for a few years. Best after 2013 according to James - Score – 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2009) $ 21.95
RUFFINO MODUS 2006 IGT Toscana. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best after 2010. Score – 91.
(James Suckling,.winespectator.com,) Another super Tuscan at one third the price! Buy, buy , buy. $ 28.95
ROCCA MAURA LIRAC 2007 AC Another Southern Rhone beauty - Lirac wines must contain at least 40% Grenache with Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault in support. This should be terrific and very well priced $ 16.95
DOMAINE GALÉVAN PAROLES DE FEMME CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 AC Back by Popular demand and a buck or two more this time, but still a wonderful easy drinking Cotes du Rhone from a great vintage.$ 15.00
GRANT BURGE THE HOLY TRINITY GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/MOURVÈDRE 2004– 94.points but remember it’s James Halliday – expect closer to 90 but a terrific GSM $ 29.95
ALTAÏR SIDERAL 2004 Rapel Valley Altaïr Vineyards & Winery is an exciting partnership between
Bordeaux’s Laurent Dassault and Chile’s Viña San Pedro whose vision is to create a Grand Cru wine from
Chile. 92 points! (www.erobertparker.com, June 2007) $ 24.95
ATALAYA ALMANSA 2007 . Score – 91.(Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com,Aug. 2008) $ 21.95
KAIKEN ULTRACABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 $ 19.95
HECHT & BANNIER CÔTES DU ROUSSILLON-VILLAGES 2006 AC If you liked last year’s, try this one. but don’t go crazy, there are better ones from the Rhone instead. $ 22.95
ARGIANO NC NON CONFUNDITUR 2006IGT Toscana This is one of the first Tuscan wines closed with
a screwcap. Yikes, progress….drink 2008-2016. Score – 90. www.erobertparker.com, Aug. 2008) $ 24.95
ELDERTON ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Barossa, South Australia Doug’s Favourite! This family-owned winery built its reputation on premium Cabs and Shiraz. Score – 91. $ 29.95
ANTINORI PÈPPOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2006 DOCG Score – 90. Only this far down because it’s a Vintages Essential so you should be able to get this almost any time. $ 19.95
TORBRECK WOODCUTTER’S SHIRAZ 2008 Barossa Valley, South Australia $ 25.95 Always sa favourite, but this year I may take a pass on it.
CUATRO PASOS MENCÍA 2007 Bierzo’s Mencia,makes a repeat performance Score – 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2009) $ 16.95
CASTILLO LABASTIDA RESERVA 2004 $ 23.95 a traditionally styled Rioja made from 100% Tempranillo that was aged in seasoned French and American oak. It will offer prime drinking from 2011 to 2020. Score – 90.
MARCHESI DE’ FRESCOBALDI TENUTA DI CASTIGLIONI 2007 IGT Toscana The buy of the release. Get out early and pick up a demi douzaine at the very least! But find a dark quiet cool spot for it for a few years. Best after 2013 according to James - Score – 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2009) $ 21.95
RUFFINO MODUS 2006 IGT Toscana. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best after 2010. Score – 91.
(James Suckling,.winespectator.com,) Another super Tuscan at one third the price! Buy, buy , buy. $ 28.95
ROCCA MAURA LIRAC 2007 AC Another Southern Rhone beauty - Lirac wines must contain at least 40% Grenache with Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault in support. This should be terrific and very well priced $ 16.95
DOMAINE GALÉVAN PAROLES DE FEMME CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2007 AC Back by Popular demand and a buck or two more this time, but still a wonderful easy drinking Cotes du Rhone from a great vintage.$ 15.00
GRANT BURGE THE HOLY TRINITY GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/MOURVÈDRE 2004– 94.points but remember it’s James Halliday – expect closer to 90 but a terrific GSM $ 29.95
ALTAÏR SIDERAL 2004 Rapel Valley Altaïr Vineyards & Winery is an exciting partnership between
Bordeaux’s Laurent Dassault and Chile’s Viña San Pedro whose vision is to create a Grand Cru wine from
Chile. 92 points! (www.erobertparker.com, June 2007) $ 24.95
ATALAYA ALMANSA 2007 . Score – 91.(Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com,Aug. 2008) $ 21.95
KAIKEN ULTRACABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 $ 19.95
HECHT & BANNIER CÔTES DU ROUSSILLON-VILLAGES 2006 AC If you liked last year’s, try this one. but don’t go crazy, there are better ones from the Rhone instead. $ 22.95
ARGIANO NC NON CONFUNDITUR 2006IGT Toscana This is one of the first Tuscan wines closed with
a screwcap. Yikes, progress….drink 2008-2016. Score – 90. www.erobertparker.com, Aug. 2008) $ 24.95
ELDERTON ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006 Barossa, South Australia Doug’s Favourite! This family-owned winery built its reputation on premium Cabs and Shiraz. Score – 91. $ 29.95
ANTINORI PÈPPOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2006 DOCG Score – 90. Only this far down because it’s a Vintages Essential so you should be able to get this almost any time. $ 19.95
TORBRECK WOODCUTTER’S SHIRAZ 2008 Barossa Valley, South Australia $ 25.95 Always sa favourite, but this year I may take a pass on it.
CUATRO PASOS MENCÍA 2007 Bierzo’s Mencia,makes a repeat performance Score – 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2009) $ 16.95
CASTILLO LABASTIDA RESERVA 2004 $ 23.95 a traditionally styled Rioja made from 100% Tempranillo that was aged in seasoned French and American oak. It will offer prime drinking from 2011 to 2020. Score – 90.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Vintages Nov.07 Release
“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.
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.
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
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