November 10, 2015 Newsletter

LCBO HOURS FOR REMEMBRANCE DAY

On Remembrance Day, Wednesday November 11, LCBO stores will open at noon until their normal closing hours. The exception is the Ottawa Region, where LCBO stores will not open until 12:30 p.m. due to Remembrance Day events in the National Capital Region. LCBO agency stores observe their normal hours of business on November 11. 

The LCBO head office in Toronto will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, in recognition of Remembrance Day. However, the toll-free, bilingual helloLCBO Contact Centre at 1-800-ONT-LCBO (668-5226) or online at hellolcbo.com will be available to customers seeking information on Wednesday, November 11.

Please welcome Lisa Isabelle to winecurrent. Lisa is a graduate of the Algonquin Sommelier Program and presently attending classes to gain her WSET Level Three. She chose winecurrent to fulfill her obligation to spend time in the industry. Lisa has tasted with Susan and Vic and has reviews in this newsletter. Please read Lisa’s bio here.

Newsletter highlights include:

• Spoiler Alert – the Christmas and Holiday Season fast approaches; the quality of wine and the price points are upped considerably. In spite of that, there are fine wines within reach of ordinary wine-lovers reviewed far below as well as those higher-priced wines sought out for gifting at this time of year.
• Exceptional value wine   – 8 of 80 wines reviewed meet the strict quality-price guidelines, all identified throughout the newsletter— all priced under $18.00. What strict guidelines?  Click here 
• 5-star Wine – seven wines rang the 5-star bell – they’re found within and following the Main Release priced from $35.00 to $149.95
• Susan Selects – Joseph Cattin Brut Crémant d’Alsace earned 4 stars @ $17.95 and Segura Viudas ‘Heredad Reserva’ Brut Cava Non-Vintage earned 4½ stars @ $29.95 with both found under Sparkling Wine; Miguel Torres ‘Altos Ibéricos’ Crianza 2012 earned 4 stars @ $17.95 found under Spain: Red Wine.
• Vic Picks – The Lane Vineyard ‘Block 1A’ Chardonnay 2013 earned 4½ stars @ $19.95 found under Australia: White Wine; 2027 Cellars ‘Queenston Road’ Pinot Noir 2012 earned 5 stars @ $35.00 found under New in Vintages.
• Private Order – is a unique opportunity to order wine by the case that’s not presently available via the LCBO to have delivered to your home, office or restaurant. There are seven wines listed and three are exceptional value.

Access the LCBO store nearest you with stock of any wine with an LCBO product number by clicking on the number shown in brackets in wine reviews then clicking on select stores and entering your postal code. The number of bottles available in each store near you is displayed. For Vintages Release wines, stock should be displayed the Friday before a Saturday release, some stores post earlier. For LCBO wines, it should closely reflect stock in stores, updated every 24 hours. It’s always best to phone first.

The Main Release

Spirits

•  Maverick Distillers of Oakville, Ontario produce the following two products in small-batch quantities. This craft producer is in the sixth successful year of operation. The Tag No.5 Vodka is made from non-gmo Ontario-grown, sweet corn that’s five times distilled then filtered five days through Ontario birch charcoal resulting in premium-quality, über-smooth Vodka at what turns out to be, a very attractive, affordable price.

• Chantilly French Cream has just been released at the LCBO. It uses only all-natural products including fresh dairy cream, natural flavours and organic sugar. It elevates the cream liqueur category by offering a creamy-smooth delectable liqueur at an attractive price. Tasting notes and reviews on both follow:

Tag No.5 ‘Ontario Grown - Original Recipe’ Vodka  
Product of Canada $26.35 (149567) 40.0% alcohol
This opens with harmonious, stylish aromas of lemon zest and caramel. It coats the palate with a medium-full bodied, creamy smooth wash that runs straight and true through the lengthy finish and aftertaste. There’s absolutely no burn with notions of flavour—mint, caramel and black licorice—persisting throughout. Where this really shines is in mixed drinks; experimented with cran/raspberry juice and it came out the clear winner in a blind tasting with three other vodkas. Highly recommended. (Vic Harradine)

Liqueur

Chantilly ‘French Cream’ Liqueur   
Product of Canada $29.95 (420444) 17.0% alcohol
This is all about the richness of the flavour and texture without being the least cloying. It bathes the palate with pure ambrosia—silky smooth flavours of maple ice cream, spiced caramel and roasted pecan persist through the creamy-textured finish and aftertaste. Pick up a bottle or two and serve chilled. (Vic Harradine)

Fortified Wine

  
Generations Wine Company ‘Forté’ 2007
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (361758) 18.0% alcohol
Aromas of dark cherry and mixed spice herald a warm, sweet river of kirsch liqueur and cranberry mingling with red licorice and peppery spice. This was fashioned from Cabernet Franc and Merlot with a spoonful of Syrah—it rested six years in oak barrel. More versatile than you might expect—sip on its own after dinner, with or without a cigar or try blue-veined cheese or death-by-chocolate dessert. Always consume in moderation, it’s quite high octane. (Vic Harradine) 

Fortified Wine: Port

Sandeman Vintage Port 2011
DOP $70.00 (362491) 21.0% alcohol
This 14-year-old teenager still has many decades ahead. Dark cherry/berry fruit and black plum aromas introduce a full-bore, fully textured tsunami wave of sweet, ripe bramble berry pie interweaving with mocha, ripe fig and dark spice cake on the palate persisting through the monumentally long finish. Pour with hard, aged cheese like Cheddar or Parmigiano Reggiano. Pour 2030 – 2050. (Vic Harradine)

Taylor Fladgate ‘Fine White’ Port

DOC Douro $15.95 (69856) 20.0% alcohol

That's correct, 'white' Port. It's a tad sweet, because you add ice and mix it with a splash of tonic and a sprig of fresh mint or citrus slice to make a refreshing aperitif. It has hints of apple and fig flavours with a focused spine of citrus acidity that keeps it crisp and refreshing. It's high octane—20% alcohol—moderation required. (Vic Harradine) 

Warre’s ‘LBV - Bottle Aged’ Port 2003
DOP $34.95 (434936) 20.0% alcohol
Black fig, raisin and spice cake aromas abound. It spills over the palate with a great surge of spice-laden briary berry and juicy black cherry robed in oodles of spice, lively tang, creamy-smooth mouth feel and oodles of charm. It’s medium-plus weight with a lingering finish and aftertaste. Not often you find a 13-year-old LBV Port on the shelf. It’s a bit pricey, but certainly worth it. (Vic Harradine)

Fortified Wine: Sherry

Emilio Lustau ‘East India Solera’ Sherry

DO Jerez $22.95 500 mL (342931) 20%lcohol

When you spot ‘Lustau’ on a wine label, it’s akin to a gold seal of approval. This perennial favourite is showing toffee, raisin and caramel on the nose coupled with a most scrumptious mélange of sweet fig, raisin and nutty flavours. Dense and intense, deftly balanced, the effect is amazing. Serve this dessert wine chilled; either on its own or matched to crème caramel, crème brûlée or any manner of dark spiced fruit cake. (Vic Harradine) 

Champagne

Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin ‘Vintage Brut Rosé’ Champagne 2004
AOC Champagne $102.95 (588475) 12.0% alcohol
This light-on-its-feet, bronze-hued Champagne fills the glass with a profusion of small-bead bubbles. There are aromas of baking brioche, yeasty notes and dried rose petals on the nose. It’s quite delicate on the palate with only a whisper of red fruit—cranberry and strawberry—and not an overabundance of lively acidity on the palate or finish. Rather like tasting a well-aged red wine and imagining what it might have once been. (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

   
Blue Mountain Brut

Okanagan Valley $28.95 (206326) 12.5% alcohol

Blue Mountain is well known for its quality, both in sparkling wines and Pinot Noir. Produced in the traditional method and aged 24 months on the lees, this dry, pale-gold blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris displays alluring aromas of butter biscuit, pear, ripe apple and citrus. The refreshing mousse has a fine, creamy texture, while the palate offers vivid citrus and light tree-fruit flavours. Light-medium bodied, the wine is in fine balance with a crisp, lengthy aftertaste. With so few wines from the Okanagan finding their way here, you won’t want to miss this one. (Susan Desjardins)

Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Brut

New Zealand $21.95 (163634) 12.0% alcohol

Aromas of baking brioche and alluring floral notes open this zippy refreshing gem. The energetic mousse supports flavours of green apple, ripe white peach and slate. It’s nicely textured and finishes lengthy with ripe citrus, sweet notes of ripe pineapple and tree fruit. The sweet and tang on the lip-smacking finish offers the opportunity to pair with spicy appetizers or to sip on its own, either is equally delightful. (Vic Harradine)

Joseph Cattin Brut Crémant d’Alsace

AOC Alsace $17.95 (281329) 12.0% alcohol

You can’t go wrong with Cattin, this finely wrought Crémant a testament to centuries of winemaking expertise. It’s dry, the mousse fine and creamy, floral and mineral notes complement citrus and crisp, tasty green apple on the palate. It’s a lively, delicate wine with mousse persisting through the long-lasting finish. It’s wonderful; sip away! (Susan Desjardins) 

Segura Viudas ‘Heredad Reserva’ Brut Cava Non-Vintage

Spain $29.95 (558825) 12.0% alcohol

Golden, with some green notes, this limited-production Cava, a blend of the first pressing of estate-grown Macabeo and Parellada, displays depth and lovely balance. Intense aromas of pear, citrus and toasted butter pastry entice. Dry, bright and fresh, it has a refined creamy mousse and a lively, crisp texture. Rich flavours of Bosc pear and lemon-lime wash across the palate and linger on the clean, persistent finish. A sparkling wine of presence and weight, it presents well as a gift or served at any holiday gathering. (Susan Desjardins)

Ontario: White Wine

  
Bachelder’s ‘Saunders Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2012
VQA Beamsville Bench $44.95 (324103) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of lime, minerality and honeysuckle herald a medium-bodied, nicely textured wash of lemon yoghurt and nectarine entwined with mineral notes and Key lime pie. There’s good nerve and verve as purity of racy fruit persists through the tang-laden, crisp, refreshing finish and aftertaste. It sips well on its own getting gastric juices flowing as an aperitif, and also pours well alongside chicken Kiev or pan-seared freshwater fish—pickerel, trout or perch—under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

  
Closson Chase ‘Closson Chase Vineyards’ Chardonnay 2013

VQA Prince Edward County $28.95 (148866) 12.5% alcohol

Notes of minerality and baking spice aromas mingle with hints of orchard fruit. Deftly balanced and decidedly sexy, white nectarine and racy citrus bathe the palate adorned by creamy texture and firm structure—it was aged 16 months in French oak barrels, less than 18% new. Purity of fruit persists through the aftertaste along with wisps of oak, nutty nuances and oodles of charm. (Vic Harradine)

  
Stratus White 2012
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $44.20 (660704) 13.5% alcohol
Floral notes, citrus and savory herbs precede a rush of tangy citrus interlaced with nectarine and ripe, sweet pineapple. This white blend—43% Chardonnay, 42% Sauvignon Blanc, 15% Riesling—is balanced on a pin, medium weight and smooth as silk. It has good weight and excellent mouth feel with a lengthy finish replaying palate flavours. Pour on its own or give it a go with grilled, breaded calamari rings or milk soaked, pan-seared scallops. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Red Wine

  
Stratus Red 2012
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $44.20 (131037) 13.8% alcohol
The doyen in blending wine in this neighbourhood, J.L. Groulx of Stratus, fashioned yet another masterpiece—kudos! This red blend—29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc, 13% Petit Verdot, 3% Tannat, 3% Malbec—wafts from the glass with aromas of charred toast, dark juicy berry fruit and baking spice. It coats the palate with a stylish, smooth-as-silk river of bramble berry, sweet ripe mulberry and wisps of mocha. It’s full bodied and structured with a long finish that’s lip-smacking good—a stunning wine that’s good to go now after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

  
Strewn ‘Canadian Oak’ Meritage 2013
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $24.95 (427518) 13.6% alcohol
Aromas of pine needle and exotic spice dominate the lifted nose. It bathes the palate with a stream of mint-infused red and black berry fruit melding with juicy black cherry and sweet kirsch liqueur. Medium bodied, creamy smooth and well balanced, this persists with good tang through the long finish with strawberry/cranberry tart on the aftertaste. Pour with grilled strip loin. (Vic Harradine)

  
Tawse Winery ‘Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir 2011 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (130989) 13.0% alcohol

Winemaker Paul Pender took the heartbreak grape from a heartbreak vintage and fashioned a top-drawer red—a tip of the hat to Paul. Roasted herbs, cola and black plum aromas announce a nicely balanced, light-medium weight and well-textured river of passion fruit, blueberry and savoury herbs with wisps of strawberry jam. The pristine purity of fruit persists through the savoury-infused, lengthy finish and aftertaste—a thing of beauty. (Vic Harradine)

Okanagan Valley: Red Wine

 
Osoyoos Larose ‘Le Grand Vin’ 2010
VQA Okanagan Valley $44.95 (626325) 13.8% alcohol
This is a gorgeous Bordeaux blend that’s primarily Merlot, at 67%, and Cabernet Sauvignon with 20%. Aromas of sweet ripe mulberry and tangy black currant set the table for fruit-forward flavour with juicy black Bing cherry and black plum interlaced with toasty notes and wisps of soft, ripe tannin. It’s mid-plus weight with good texture and lingering aftertaste showcasing purity of fruit, firm structure and a boatload of stylish charm. (Vic Harradine)

California: White Wine

Flowers ‘Sonoma Coast’ Chardonnay 2013
Sonoma Coast $64.95 (215210) 13.5% alcohol
This is an elegant, stylish, even sensual Chardonnay showcasing complexity, balance, structure and great purity of fruit throughout—in short, it’s delicious. Baking spice, orchard and pit fruit aromas are clarion call for a complex tapestry of flavour bathing the palate and persisting through the lengthy, lip-smacking finish—peach, ripe pear, white nectarine and tangy citrus interweave with cloves, cinnamon and nutty notes. It’s a revelation of what can be accomplished by an even hand and harmony. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

Cade Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Napa Valley $103.95 (296509) 14.9% alcohol
Sandalwood, dark cherry/berry fruit and spice box aromas on the nose, a luscious, medium-full bodied, creamy-textured flow of boysenberry pie, juicy black currant and excellent moderating acidity coats the palate. It’s nicely structured and fruit forward with good acidity throughout providing balance and a tang-laden aftertaste. It’s good to go now and pairs well with grilled or roasted red meat. (Vic Harradine)

Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Sonoma County $35.95 (186171) 13.9% alcohol
Grilled herbs, charred toast and dark berry fruit dominate the nose on this medium-full bodied, fully textured ‘Wine of the Month’. It streams over the palate with delectable flavours of black currant, bramble berry, baking spice and still-resolving tannin underpinning. Toasty oak peeks through on the finish and aftertaste. Best opened 2017-2025, you could pour now after a three-hour aeration/decant alongside a well-seasoned, grilled strip loin. (Vic Harradine)

Francis Ford Coppola ‘Archimedes’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County $77.95 (431825) 14.5% alcohol
This California Cab expresses great sense of purpose, purity of fruit, deft balance and an intriguing nose of exotic spice, fennel and rich dark berry fruit aromas. A luscious, silky-smooth surge of cassis, juicy black cherry and racy red cherry coats the palate persisting through the lengthy finish. The aftertaste layers on notions of sweet vanilla and mixed spice. It’s approachable now, after a three-hour aeration/decant, and on to 2025. This is a terrific red for connoisseurs, collectors and wine-lovers like you and me. (Vic Harradine)

McManis Zinfandel 2013
Lodi $19.95 (256735) 13.5% alcohol
This crowd-pleasing Zin blasts from the glass with lifted aromas of savory spice, sandalwood and lively red cherry aromas. Pie cherry and tangy red currant entwine perfectly with sweet ripe briary berry delivering a medium-weight, beautifully balanced flow over the palate. There’s good mouth feel and a balanced fruit-forward aftertaste with each sip as good or better than the previous. Pour with hearty stew, osso bucco or cassoulet. (Vic Harradine)

Meiomi Pinot Noir 2013
Monterey County/Santa Barbara County/Sonoma County $57.95 1500 mL (429977) 13.5% alcohol
Sweet, ripe berry fruit aromas swirl from this medium-bodied Pinot. These aromas on the nose morph into flavours on the palate with a blanket of cherry clafoutie, bramble berry jam and black plum compote garnished with savory herbs, underbrush and espresso roast. Mid weight and nicely textured, it finishes with a bite and wisps of tannin on the aftertaste. Aerate/decant a couple of hours, pouring with a slab of grilled back ribs mopped with spicy bar b que sauce.

Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Napa Valley $70.95 1500 mL (435131) 15.0% alcohol
Premium fruit—87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 5% Cab Franc—was hand harvested in an epic vintage, cold-soaked, fermented with extended maceration then gently pressed into French oak barrel for malolactic conversion then aged 17 months before bottling. This is top drawer with complexity, structure and generous texture showcasing aromas and flavours of black currant and black cherry supported by grilled herbs. It’s full bodied with a lingering tang-laden finish with wisps of soft, fine-grained tannin. Aerate/decant for three hours before pouring. (Vic Harradine)

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Artemis’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Napa Valley $69.95 (708982) 14.5% alcohol
The Stag’s Leap District AVA was officially recognized only in 1989; however, the winery has been around since 1893. Wood smoke, rich berry fruit and sweet vanilla wafts from this full-bodied, fully textured Artemis. A tang-laced stream of sour cherry and briary berry is interwoven with briary berry, piquant spice and toasty oak. The extended aftertaste is mouth-wateringly good introducing ripe, fine-grained tannin that’s easily ameliorated with a two-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

  
Versado ‘Reserva’ Ancient Malbec 2011
Mendoza $59.95 (316984) 14.9% alcohol
Fruit for this was sourced from un-grafted Malbec vines first planted almost 100 years ago. Dark cherry aromas along with graphite and wisps of peppery spice set the stage for a silky-smooth flow of pie cherry and red currant robed in excellent acidity and ripe, fine-grained tannin. This is complex and structured with touches of elegance and persistent purity of fruit. It finishes lengthy and luscious with dark berry fruit and savory herbs—good to go now and on to 2025. (Vic Harradine)

Chile: Red Wine

Emiliana ‘Coyam’ 2011
Colchagua Valley $29.95 (63891) 14.5% alcohol
Earthy, toasty and pencil shavings on the nose, this coats the palate with a broad swath of flavour—sweet, ripe mulberry and juicy black currant interwoven with truffle and black licorice. This is medium-plus weight with creamy-smooth mouth feel, balanced and beautiful on the palate. It finishes with discernible tannin and an Amarone-like bite on the aftertaste. Good to go now after a three-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

• Not often you have a crack at an eight-year-old Chilean red and the next wine is a terrific example of a good one. There’s good value here, as well. The 1500 mL bottle, aka ‘magnum’, provides the opportunity to cellar another four to five years, though it’s certainly drinking well now.

Santa Carolina ‘Reserva De Familia’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Maipo Valley $37.95 1500 mL (430728) 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of ripe berry fruit and exotic spice herald a mid-weight, dense and generously textured river of black plum compote, sweet cherry tart with notions of black licorice and grilled herbs. It finishes dry with balance, charm and a brushstroke of dark berry fruit, good acidity and a fairly long aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: White Wine

The Lane Vineyard ‘Block 1A’ Chardonnay 2013
Adelaide Hills, South Australia $19.95 (429233) 13.0% alcohol
Baking spice, white peach and pear aromas precede a lively wash of white grapefruit, lemon curd and toasty notes on the palate. Fashioned from six Chardonnay clones across eight distinct blocks in the cooler Adelaide Hills with its significant diurnal variation, this has oodles of charm. It’s medium weight with good mouth feel and a lengthy, lip-smacking aftertaste. There’s good balance, structure and persistent purity of fruit. It’s well paced and well priced, pouring perfectly with salt and pepper, grilled calamari rings. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

• The following red is an Aussie classic, the Dead Arm is named due to a fungal disease, ‘Eutypa Lata’; it’s sourced from ‘truncated, gap-toothed old vines’ dating back to 1912 from dry-grown, poor-soil vineyards. It’s listed in the ‘Outstanding’ category of the vaunted Langton’s Classification, a list of Australia’s most sought-after wines.

d’Arenberg ‘The Dead Arm’ Shiraz 2010
McLaren Vale, South Australia $54.95 (430512) 14.0% alcohol
Smoke, iodine, baking spice and red and black berry fruit aromas waft from the glass. It cuts a wide and delectable path across the palate with red and black cherry, ripe mulberry, earthy notes and peppery spice robed in black licorice and dark chocolate. It’s full-bodied and generously textured with structure and gutsy flavour on the finish and aftertaste—it was hand picked, foot trodden, basket pressed, aged in French and American oak, unfined and unfiltered. Good to go now after a three-hour aeration/decant and with careful cellaring, the next twenty years. (Vic Harradine)

Penfolds ‘Bin 407’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
South Australia $59.95 (414987) 14.5% alcohol
This Cabernet Sauvignon, according to the Penfolds’ site, was sourced from various areas in the states of South and Western Australia spending 12 months in French and American oak. Black currant, black plum and spice box aromas introduce a mid-full weight, textured river of sweet, ripe fruit—black raspberry and juicy mulberry—adorned with excellent acidity and wisps of fine-grained tannin. It finishes dry, balanced and lengthy with espresso roast and dark chocolate on the aftertaste. Good to go now after a three-hour/aeration decant and pouring well with rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Shirvington Shiraz 2009
McLaren Vale, South Australia $56.95 (430629) 15.0% alcohol
Lively aromas of piquant spice, cedar and dark berry fruit herald a tang-laden river of black Bing cherry, cassis and ripe, sweet mulberry entwined with dark bittersweet chocolate, tarry notes and wisps of toasty oak. It’s nicely textured, medium-full bodied with oodles of style and a lengthy, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste—a gorgeous Shiraz with complexity and charm. Aerate/decant a couple of hours and pour with grilled pork back ribs slathered in spicy bar b sauce. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: White Wine

Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2014

Marlborough, South Island $24.95 (677450) 13.5% alcohol

Gooseberry aromas dance on the nose adorned with lemongrass and mineral/slate/flinty notes. The sweet and tang on the palate’s delivered by a concentrated wash of lime cordial and lemon curd interweaving with kiwi fruit and white grapefruit pith on the fresh, crisp aftertaste. Give this a go alongside pan-seared pickerel or grilled garlic prawns. (Vic Harradine)

Oyster Bay Pinot Grigio 2014

Hawke’s Bay, North Island $18.95 (326090) 13.0% alcohol

Subdued aromas of floral notes and orchard fruit give way to a tang-laced streak of lemon zest, racy lime and hints of passion fruit. It’s light-medium bodied with a mid-length finish and aftertaste. This pours well on its own and pairs exceptionally well with grilled calamari rings under a squirt of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

South Africa: Red Wine

Rustenberg ‘Buzzard Kloof’ Syrah 2010
WO Stellenbosch $24.95 (414151) 14.5% alcohol
Rustenberg has a wine-growing history dating back to 1682 with an unbroken period of wine being bottled at this estate since 1892. Complex aromas of dark berry fruit, gamy notes and charred toast dance from the glass of this flagship, gorgeous Syrah. A concentrated surge of black currant and kirsch liqueur envelopes the palate adorned with baking spice and grilled savory herbs. It’s good weight and fully textured with complexity, persistent purity of fruit and deft balance. It’s very good value and certainly one for the cart. (Vic Harradine)

France: White Wine

  
La Chablisienne ‘Montmains’ Chablis 1er Cru 2012
AOC Chablis $32.95 (265090) 13.0% alcohol
La Chablisienne is a cooperative of +200 members formed in 1923 with Montmains the best offering of their left-bank—of the River Serein—Premier Crus. Gun flint, floral and citrus notes on the nose, this dishes up a light-medium bodied, flavourful wash of crisp Granny Smith apple, minerality, white nectarine, tang-laden lemon citrus and white grapefruit pith on the palate. There’s very good mouth feel and good weight with a lime-tinged, crisp, clean and refreshing finish. Pour this value-packed Chablis with pan-seared fish. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

Château Hauchat 2011

AOC Fronsac, France $15.95 (123489) 13.0% alcohol

Year after year, the Saby family delivers complex, well-paced wine of great value. This vintage hints at the earth, with notes of cedar and dried herbs, while the lovely ripe fruit is garnished with fine notes of spice. Dry, medium-full bodied, the well-defined structure provides a fine frame for the tasty plum and black cherry fruit with notes of spice, herbs and a dash of white pepper lingering on through the extended dry finish. Drinking well now, you’ll enjoy this wine with roast beef. Vic and I both loved this. (Susan Desjardins)

Château Haut Corbin 2000
AOC Saint-Émilion Grand Cru $58.95 (425439) 13.0% alcohol
Funky aromas of campfire smoke, forest floor, gamy notes and charred toast abound. There’s a solid line of red currant and pie cherry nicely balanced with sweet, ripe mulberry on the palate and all replaying on the finish. It’s medium bodied with good mouth feel and good complexity on the aftertaste with a layering on of toasty oak, wisps of tannin and dry, mouth-watering tang. Pour with leg of lamb and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

Château Magnol 2010
AOC Haut-Médoc $47.95 1500 mL (424598) 13.5% alcohol
Smoke, oak and toast on the nose this bathes the palate with a fleshy stream of black plum compote and cooked fruit on entry juxtaposed with red cherry and fennel on the back palate and finish. It’s mid weight and smooth throughout with a terrific aftertaste that’s fruit-forward, balanced and lengthy. Interesting sipped on its own, better poured with lamb daube or grilled red meat. (Vic Harradine)

Gérard Bertrand ‘Terroir’ Fitou 2011

AOC Fitou $16.95 (403683) 14.5% alcohol

This blend of Carignan/Grenache tickles the nose with appealing aromas—black berry and cherry, earth, dried herbs and spice. Dry and full bodied, the earthy quality is sustained on the palate. Lavish fruit framed with supple tannin and lifted by clean acidity is garnished with notes of spice and chocolate through the dry finish. Enjoy with a hearty stew. (Susan Desjardins)

Château de Nages ‘Vieilles Vignes’ Costières de Nîmes 2012
AOC Costières de Nîmes $19.95 (40964) 15.0% alcohol
Celebrated vigneron Michel Gassier, has intimate knowledge of this AOC being 4th generation owner/winemaker. This Grenache/Syrah/Mourvèdre/Cinsault/Carignan, organically farmed, red blend leaps from the glass with a lifted nose of boysenberry jam and baking spice. It coats the plate with a full-bodied, fully textured wash of ripe, black briary berry, mulberry and black currant wrapped in grilled herbs, mocha and fennel. The finish and aftertaste offer more of the same; it’s a fruit-driven, well-priced, crowd pleaser. (Vic Harradine)

Domaine de Vieux Lazaret Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $87.95 1500 mL (957266) 14.5% alcohol
The Quiot family have been owners of this Domaine since 1748. Aromas of smoke, charred toast, piquant spice and dark berry fruit set the stage for a medium-plus bodied, dense and concentrated wash of briary berry and juicy black cherry mingling with espresso roast and anise. The lingering finish and aftertaste showcase excellent red berry acidity and a perceptible tannin underpinning. You could open now and pour after a three-hour aeration/decant, but best to pop corks 2017 to 2024 pouring alongside beef Napoleon. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: White Wine

• A couple of bottles of the following white wine will put you on the cutting edge as it’s become a trendy option. Falanghina—fah-lawn-GHEE-nah—has been grown in Campania for centuries and is thought to be indigenous to Greece. For years it was blended with other grapes, but has recently hit its stride as a varietal bottling.

Terredora Falanghina 2014
IGT Campania $16.95 (642074) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of lemony/herbaceous notes and tropical fruit open this exceptional-value gem. It dishes up a balanced gusher of creamy-smooth nectar with ripe, juicy peach, red apple and racy lemon curd to the fore. It’s mid weight and generously textured with a lingering, fruit-laden, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. This was aged on its lees in stainless steel and saw no oak. Pour on its own or with roast chicken, pork or veal. (Vic Harradine)

Beni Di Batasiolo ‘Langhe Rosso’ 2013
DOC Piedmont $16.95 (981019) 13.5% alcohol
Charred toast, cedar and mixed spice open a tang-laden, laser-like line of acidity streaking across the palate—red currant, passion fruit and pie cherry. It’s good weight with plenty of nerve and verve. It finishes in a blaze of mouth-watering acidity garnished with notions of riper, sweeter dark berry fruit on the racy finish. Pour alongside pasta in tomato sauce, meat-laden lasagna or red pizza. (Vic Harradine)

  
Banfi Brunello Di Montalcino 2010
DOCG Brunello Di Montalcino $54.95 (378257) 14.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of lilac, leather and cedar precede a gorgeous river of black Bing cherry and black currant adorned with hints of orange blossom and toasty/oaky notes. It’s full bodied, firm textured with balance, purity of fruit, structure and depth. It continues creamy smooth through the long aftertaste—dry and fruit forward showing wisps of fine-grained tannin. Aerate/decant for two hours pouring now to 2023. (Vic Harradine)

C’Marcanda ‘Promis’ 2013
IGT Toscana $55.95 (745638) 13.5% alcohol
Dark berry fruit, sandalwood and toasty oak aromas abound. A surging river of delectable fruit—ripe mulberry, red cherry and black berry—interlace with excellent acidity, soft tannin structure and excellent moderating acidity—it’s all harmonious with good fruit, tangy acidity and acceptable tannin. Medium-full bodied and fully textured, the lingering finish and aftertaste is dry and balanced with hints of cassis and earthy notes. (Vic Harradine)

Giacomo Mori Chianti 2012
DOCG Chianti $19.95 (68858) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of exotic spice, cola and juicy red cherry provide segue for a fruity wash of racy sour cherry and red currant bolstered by charred toast and red licorice. It’s a blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino/Canaiolo that’s medium weight with a persistent flow of fruit and deft balance. It finishes with replays from the palate and hints of riper, sweeter mulberry and kirsch liqueur. This spent 20 months in French and Slavonian seasoned oak. Pour alongside veal Marsala or osso bucco. (Vic Harradine)

Poggio Verrano ‘Dròmos’ Maremma Toscana 2005
IGT Maremma Toscana $39.95 14.0% alcohol
This is a gorgeous, hand-harvested, decade-old red blend with international fruit—Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot entwined with indigenous Sangiovese and Alicante. Lifted aromas of piquant spice mingling with menthol and tomato leaf lead to mid-weight, textured flow of tangy red cherry and ripe dark berry fruit caressing the palate, balanced and beautiful. There’s great fruit, firm structure and plenty of charm after spending 18 months in French oak barriques and 24 months in bottle before release. It finishes fruit forward with good acidity—it’s good value, as well. (Vic Harradine)

• The next wine is a single-vineyard Amarone that’s part of the Boscaini family’s private collection, sourced from a premium plot that’s been producing fine wine since the 12th C; it’s made only in the best vintages and doesn’t get released often.

Masi ‘Campolongo Di Torbe’ Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2009
DOCG Valpolicella Classico $101.95 (548677) 16.0% alcohol
The Masi name on the label alerts you—you can be assured of well-made wine. Black fig, spice cake and dark berry fruit aromas are clarion call for a full-bore, smooth-as-silk river of dried currant, red and black cherry and kirsch liqueur coating the palate and senses. There’s deft balance, structure, complexity, fabulous fruit and acidity, stylish elegance and a monumentally long, bitter-bite aftertaste that’s lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)

Masi ‘Costasera Riserva’ Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2009

DOC Valpolicella $149.95 (348037) 1500 mL 15.5% alcohol

Produced from Valpolicella’s indigenous, holy trinity of grapes—Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara—this Riserva is also blessed by the unique Oseleta varietal, rediscovered by Masi. It bustles from the glass with floral and toasty notes mingling with espresso roast, dark cherry and black plum. Luscious rich flavours coat the palate—black Bing cherry, dried currant, fig and raisin—followed by a lingering finish layering on dried berry fruit, bittersweet chocolate and the tell-tale Amarone bite on the aftertaste—soft, fine-grained tannin adds structure to this magnificent red. It’ll age exceptionally well in this magnum format. (Vic Harradine)

• The iconic doyen of the Veneto, Giuseppe Quintarelli, sadly passed away in 2012, but his legend lives on through his wine—those he physically touched and those now fashioned by his family.

Quintarellia ‘Primofiore’ 2011
IGT Veneto $64.95 (20867) 14.0% alcohol
This dazzling red blend is equal amounts of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Corvina and Corvinone spending 10-12 months aging in Slavonian oak cask. Aromas of sandalwood, tobacco leaf and black currant unleash a medium-full bodied, generously textured, giant wave of sweet ripe briary berry, juicy black currant and charred, toasty notes. It’s balanced on a pin, complex and structured with sense of purpose and persistent flow of fruit. The lengthy aftertaste layers on good acidity, baking spice and black plum compote. (Vic Harradine)

• Following a time-honoured process for producing Amarone, selected bunches of premium, indigenous fruit from four Valpolicella grape varieties—Corvina 50%, Rondinella 30%, Corvinone 15%, Oseleta 5%—were dried four months in small open racks, concentrating sugars—through losing approximately 50% of their weight—then fermented and aged 30 months in seasoned Slavonian oak casks to produce the following Speri wine.

Speri ‘Vigneto Monte Sant’Urbano’ Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2010
DOCG Valpolicella Classico $74.95 (205294) 15.0% alcohol
Sant’Urbano is a special 19 hectare site, just recently certified organic, with volcanic soil, a mixture of chalk and clay. Aromas of lively spice, cedar and cracked black pepper introduce and tang-laced river of red currant and pie cherry melding with savory herbs and spice cake. Primarily a Corvina/Rondinella blend, it’s medium-full bodied with creamy smooth texture and wisps of still-resolving tannin. The finish and aftertaste are monumentally lengthy—aerate/decant three hours before pouring. (Vic Harradine)

Tedeschi ‘Capitel San Rocco’ Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2013
DOC Valpolicella Superiore $44.95 1500 mL (424549) 14.5% alcohol
This gorgeous Ripasso earns its stripes with great balance, delectable fruit, racy acidity and terrific bones. Aromas of rosewood, dark toast and black plum provide entry to a fully textured, full-flavoured and silky-smooth wash of sweet, ripe, fruit with depth and concentration—juicy black cherry and peppery black currant mingling with racy red currant and notions of truffles and black fig. The lengthy aftertaste is balanced and beautiful, lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)

Tomassi Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2011
DOCG Valpolicella Classico $49.95 (356220) 15.0% alcohol
Ripe dark berry fruit and juicy red cherry aromas entwine with mixed spice and black plum on the nose of this medium-weight Amarone. It spills over the palate with creamy-smooth mouth feel and a balanced river of black Bing cherry, tangy red currant and notions of cassis liqueur garnished with mocha and a tell-tale Amarone bite on the finish. There’s a soft tannin underpinning peeking out on the aftertaste. Pour now, after a two-hour aeration/decant and on to 2022. (Vic Harradine)

Spain: Red Wine

Alvaro Palacios ‘Velles Vinyes - Les Terrasses’ 2013
DOCa Priorat $48.95 (977843) 14.5% alcohol
This is a more restrained, herbal-flecked offering from Alvaro Palacios. There are delicate aromas of floral, cherry/berry fruit and sprigs of herbs on the nose. It streaks over the palate with red currant and pie cherry robed in tomato leaf and notions of mocha. It’s medium bodied with decent texture and a mid-length finish of red berry fruit and green savoury herbs. Pour with red pizza, pasta dishes in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Bodega Lan ‘Crianza’ 2011
DOCa Rioja $29.95 1500 mL (424531) 13.5% alcohol
Toast, smoke and floral aromas set the stage for a racy river of sour cherry and cranberry along with a supporting cast of ripe mulberry and black plum. It’s mid weight, nicely textured, balanced and uncomplicated with good fruit, acidity and a soft tannin underpinning—a crowd pleaser at a very good price. It fleshes out on the finish with additional ripe berry fruit. It’s good to go now with burgers, red pizza, tacos or lasagna. (Vic Harradine)

Convento San Franciso ‘Crianza’ 2009
DO Ribera del Duero $19.95 (206409) 14.5% alcohol
Fashioned from hand-picked, 100% Tempranillo fruit, it was aged 12 months in 225 litre barriques made from 70% French and 30% American oak. Grilled herbs, sharp spice and savory aromas on the nose, this red blend dishes up a racy river of dark berry fruit along with tapenade, gamy notes and just a brushstroke of soft tannin. It’s medium-plus weight with good texture and a juicy finish and savory aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Don Jacobo ‘Reserva’ 2007
DOCa Rioja $21.95 (313270) 13.5% alcohol
This red blend—90% Tempranillo, 10% Garnacha/Mazuelo—sports a lifted nose of blueberry preserve, black plum and toasty notes. A surge of tangy red cherry and black currant coat the palate with notions of boysenberry jam. It’s medium-bodied with good texture and juicy briary berry on the fruit-driven finish. It’s nicely balanced with a boatload of charm; versatile at the table—almost any grilled red meat—and good value. (Vic Harradine)

Miguel Torres ‘Altos Ibéricos’ Crianza 2012

DOCa Rioja, Spain $17.95 (381046) 13.5% alcohol

This Tempranillo is very good value. It was aged 12 months in oak producing the spicy notes and vanilla that accent aromas of ripe red fruit. There’s an elusive note of leather underlying the sweet spice and tangy fruit. It’s nicely structured, dry and medium bodied with perceptible tannin and refined acidity. The wine finishes tasty and fruity. (Susan Desjardins)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: November 28, 2015

Bodega Secreto Patagónico ‘Limited Edition’ Chardonnay 2012
Patagonia, Argentina $18.95 (380055) 14.0% alcohol
A gorgeous golden hue and aromas of tropical fruit, honey and binned apple herald a creamy-smooth, nicely textured stream of baking spice-infused flavours of ripe, red apple and pear interwoven with grilled pineapple and lemon pie filling. It’s medium bodied with a finish and aftertaste that’s loaded with ripe orchard fruit and wisps of peach skin. Pour alongside chicken à la king. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: January 9, 2016

 
Creekside ‘Serluca Family Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc 2013
VQA Four Mile Creek $22.95 13.5% alcohol
Opaque and inky purple, this well-ripened Cabernet Franc offers complexity and richness. Enjoy the lifted floral aromas, cassis and black berry fruit, sweet spice, graphite and a notion of bay leaf. Medium-full bodied, the fresh, mouthwatering texture is paired with focused red cherry and cassis flavours, a savoury quality and notes of oak aging including dark chocolate and spice. Well balanced with good intensity of flavours and an extended, dry finish, this is drinking well now but has the bones for aging. (Susan Desjardins)

Vintages Release: February 6, 2016

 
Creekside Estate Merlot 2013
VQA Four Mile Creek $24.95 13.0% alcohol
Sourced from the Serluca Family Vineyard in Four Mile Creek, this single-vineyard Merlot underwent a three-day cold soak in stainless steel then aged 19 months in 43% seasoned French oak and 57% American oak barrels. Aromas of ripe plum, blackberry and raspberry jam with hints of spice, tobacco and chocolate dominate the nose. The juicy fruit replays on the palate with spice and sweet smoke. This medium-bodied, silky, crowd pleaser pairs beautifully with sticky barbecued ribs. (Lisa Isabelle)

Vintages Release: June 25, 2016

Château Sainte-Marie ‘Vieilles Vignes’ Entre-deux-Mers 2014
AOC Entre-deux-Mers, France $13.75 (447565) 12.5% alcohol
Bright and clean on the nose, this award-winning, value-packed blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle offers light floral and herbal aromas, notes of citrus, apricot and a notion of wet stone. Light-medium bodied on the palate, the texture is mouth-watering and crisp, the citrus expressed as grapefruit and lime with hints of smoke and flint, the herbaceous quality adds character. Finishing long and dry, this is your go-to wine for fresh seafood. (Susan Desjardins)

Vintages Release: 2016

Domaine de Mauperthuis Chablis 2014
AOC Chablis, France $TBA 12.5% alcohol
This traditionally crafted gem was hand-harvested from 25-year-old vines, wild-yeast fermented, rested on heavy and fine lees six-months each developing texture, aromas and structure. It leaps from the glass with lifted aromas of exotic incense, honeysuckle and gun-flint before bathing the palate with a creamy smooth, heavenly textured flow of mineral-laden lemon curd, crisp Granny Smith apple and Key lime. It showcases good weight and structure, steely acidity and lip-smacking tang. Pour with pan-seared or grilled seafood. (Vic Harradine)

Provolo ‘Campotorbian’Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore 2011
DOC Valpolicella Ripasso, Italy $18.80 (517912) 14.0% alcohol
A blend of indigenous grapes from the Veneto—60% Corvina, 25% Rondinella, 15% Corvinone—it spent 24 months in oak and another six in bottle before release. It opens with lively aromas of campfire smoke, cedar and dark berry fruit. A silky-smooth wash of ripe, dark fruit—currant, mulberry and cherry—mingle with grilled herbs, piquant spice and bittersweet chocolate. It finishes fruit-driven, lengthy and sporting espresso roast and notions of black licorice on the aftertaste. This is terrific Ripasso at a very, very good price. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages

 
2027 Cellars ‘Queenston Road’ Pinot Noir 2012

VQA St. David’s Bench $35.00 (421370) 13.0% alcohol 
Here’s a fabulous Pinot with great purity of fruit, complexity, balance and delectable flavour. Funky aromas of earthiness, savory bits, spice and dark toast are pried from the subdued nose. Palate-coating flavours of juicy, tangy sour cherry and spice-infused black berry interweave with notions of anise and cocoa. It finishes with a balanced, complex replay of palate flavours garnished with ripe, supple tannin and charm—it was tough to spit. Good to go now and on to the early 2020s. (Vic Harradine) 

The Grinder Pinotage 2013
WO Western Cape, South Africa $13.95 (269076) 14.0% alcohol
This is a Vintages Essentials product, always available in select stores—it won a ‘Judges Choice’ award at the ‘World Wine Awards of Canada’. Campfire smoke, roasted chicory root and red berry fruit on the nose, it flows over the palate medium bodied and creamy smooth with flavours of red cherry, grilled herbs and kirsch liqueur. It finishes rustic and lengthy with a lovely bitter bite. Pour with grilled, smoked, pork back ribs mopped with spicy bar b que sauce. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

The Hidden Sea Shiraz 2013
Limestone Coast, South Australia $16.95 (402628) 14.5% alcohol
Spice-laden aromas of cracked black pepper and cherry cough medicine introduce a medium-weight, nicely textured stream of red cherry and dark berry fruit garnished with piquant spice. There’s deft balance of acidity and fruit and it lingers on the finish and aftertaste. Pour with burgers, pizza, tacos and all your favourite comfort food. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Purchase the following wines by the case for daily home, restaurant or office delivery online from Creekside Estate or pick up from the winery in Jordan.

 
Creekside ‘Serluca Family Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc 2013
VQA Four Mile Creek $22.95 13.5% alcohol
Opaque and inky purple, this well-ripened Cabernet Franc offers complexity and richness. Enjoy the lifted floral aromas, cassis and black berry fruit, sweet spice, graphite and a notion of bay leaf. Medium-full bodied, the fresh, mouthwatering texture is paired with focused red cherry and cassis flavours, a savoury quality and notes of oak aging including dark chocolate and spice. Well balanced with good intensity of flavours and an extended, dry finish, this is drinking well now but has the bones for aging. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Creekside Estate Merlot 2013
VQA Four Mile Creek $24.95 13.0% alcohol
Sourced from the Serluca Family Vineyard in Four Mile Creek, this single-vineyard Merlot underwent a three-day cold soak in stainless steel and aged in 43% old French oak and 57% American oak barrels. Ripe plum, blackberry and raspberry jam with hints of spice, tobacco and chocolate dominate the nose. The juicy fruit repeats on the palate with spice and sweet smoke. This medium-bodied, silky, crowd pleaser pairs beautifully with sticky barbecued ribs. (Lisa Isabelle)

 
Creekside Estate ‘Broken Press – Reserve’ Syrah 2012
VQA St. David’s Bench $42.95 13.0% alcohol
Fruit—96% Syrah, 4% Viognier—was sourced from their Queenston Road vineyard. Peppery spice, floral notes and dark berry fruit dominate the nose. A luscious flow of red cherry and ripe mulberry robed in, sweet vanilla, savory herbs and excellent acidity bathe the palate. It’s mid-plus weight, creamy smooth, deftly balanced with depth and concentration. It’s approachable now after a three-hour aeration/decant with ripe tannin underpinning allowing further development now to 2023—a colossal Niagara Syrah from one of the best red-wine vintages in memory. (Vic Harradine)

 
Creekside Estate ‘Unbroken Press – Reserve’ Syrah 2012
VQA St. David’s Bench $42.95 14.0% alcohol
This was barrel fermented and aged 20 months in primarily seasoned French oak. There are aromas of earthy notes, red cherry, cola and piquant spice galore. Firm, taut and broad-shouldered, it spreads over the palate with tang-laden red currant and pie cherry firmly wrapped in still-resolving tannin and sprigs of savory herbs. It’s full bodied with good mouth feel and a long, lip-smacking finish showcasing good acidity, firm fruit flavour and the promise of great things to come—cellar until 2018, reaping benefits by pouring on to 2025 with grilled red meat. (Vic Harradine)

New in Private Order

• Order the following wines by the case for home, restaurant or office delivery in Ontario from VinoLuna wine agency. Contact via website, VinoLuna, by Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or in the GTA phone 416 587-6691.

Château d’Antugnac ‘Terres Amoureuses’ Limoux Blanc 2013
AOC Limoux, France $22.10 13.0% alcohol
This was fashioned from 85% old-vine Chardonnay and 15% Mauzac from the heart of Limoux in southwestern France. Mauzac, used in the sparkling wine Blanquette de Limoux, offers zesty acidity and floral notes. The delicate nose offers aromas of ripe pear, quince jelly, baking spice, and a whiff of toast from spending time on its lees. Green apple, lemon curd and spice notes excite the palate. Medium bodied and mouth-watering, pair this with goat cheese appetizer. (Lisa Isabelle)

Château d’Antugnac ‘Les Grands Penchants’ 2014
IGP Haut Vallée de L’Aude, France $17.25 13.0% alcohol
This stunning gem is sourced from some of the oldest Chardonnay vines in the Languedoc with high-diurnal temperature variation and well-drained subsoil of clay and limestone. Aromas of tropical fruit, ripe pear and mixed spice precede an explosion of ripe pear, apple and yellow peach with a good citrus underpinning. It’s medium weight with generous mouth feel and balanced lingering finish with wisps of peach skin on the aftertaste. Don’t pass this by; both price and wine are compelling. (Vic Harradine)

Château d’Antugnac ‘Las Gravas’ Limoux Blanc 2013
AOC Limoux, France $34.25 13.0 % alcohol
From the high-altitude Limoux region in southeastern France this old-vine Chardonnay offers aromas of orchard fruit, binned red apple and lemon zest with hints of honey. Barrel fermented with lees stirring, this medium-bodied wine has a creamy texture and finishes with refreshing acidity on the palate with notes of ripe fruit, butter and spice. Pair this with scallops sautéed in butter. (Lisa Isabelle)

Viña Gormaz Crianza 2012
DO Ribera del Duero, Spain $17.95 14.0% alcohol
This 100% Tempranillo was hand-harvested from 70-year-old vines, aged 14 months in French and American oak, new and seasoned, from a founding winery of Ribera del Duero. Rich aromas of fresh red cherry robed with spice, mocha and tobacco abound. It bathes the palate with luscious, mouth-filling waves of sweet, ripe mulberry and red currant garnished with spice and sweet vanilla. It’s structured, medium bodied with good texture, a lengthy finish and aftertaste to complement persistent purity of fruit and deft balance; it’s a gorgeous red at an attractive price. (Vic Harradine)

Viña Gormaz ‘Roble’ 2013
DO Ribera del Duero, Spain $15.45 14.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of black plum, charred toast and boysenberry herald a creamy smooth stream of cassis and dark berry fruit with mixed spice, vanilla and red cherry. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Hi-altitude, 60-year-old Tempranillo vines produced hand-harvested fruit, aged in new and seasoned American oak barrels for 5 months—Roble translates to Oak. This is balanced and mid weight with no rough edges on the silky finish. It’s ready to pour now with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Provolo ‘Gino’ Rosso Veneto 2014
IGT Rosso Veneto, Italy $14.70 13.0% alcohol
This was fashioned from indigenous, Veneto red grapes—Corvina, Rondinella, Corvinone. There were two fermentations, the second with late-harvest fruit. Aromas of dark berry fruit, dark chocolate and spice box precede a surge of beautifully textured black currant, dark cherry and cassis mingling with espresso roast and bittersweet chocolate. It’s mid-plus bodied with structure, persistent purity of fruit and excellent moderating acidity. It finishes lengthy and lip-smacking good and will only get better with time. This is fabulous wine. Given the price, you’ll be hard pressed to find better. (Vic Harradine)

Señorio de Garci Grande Verdejo 2014
DO Rueda, Spain $15.95 12.5% alcohol
Rueda is located in NW Spain—with documented wine production as far back as the 11th C. This opens with notes of savory herbs and piquant spice with hints of gooseberry, reminiscent of premium Sauvignon Blanc—one of Verdejo’s progenitors is Savagnin blanc. It spills over the palate with a racy river of tangy lime and blood orange mingling with peach, nectarine and grilled pineapple. It’s stylish and medium bodied with very generous mouth feel and lengthy, mouth-watering aftertaste. There’s very good value here. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, Vic, Susan, Lisa