December 3, 2014 Newsletter

The weekend of September 20, 2014 found the Muskokas drowning in over 100mm of rain—beaver dams gave way and golf courses flooded. What do you do when tee times go down the drain? Susan Desjardins headed for the small hamlet of Bala and made her way to Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh, home of Muskoka Lakes Winery. Read more…

Winecurrent recently attended a tasting of South African wines at SOIF wine bar and eatery in Gatineau, Québec. The tasting was led by Will Predhomme, the 2010 Best Sommelier in Ontario Award winner, with able assistance from a group of South African winemakers and winery principals. The top wines are reviewed as well as SOIF. Read more…

The California Wine Fair dates are always worth recording—it visits eight centres across Canada from coast to coast. Highly regarded as ‘the’ wine show of the year that one does not miss; it’s often sold out. Purchase tickets @ www.calwine.ca on January 15, 2015 and have questions answered now via the California Wine Fair Hotline (905) 336-8932 or 1-800-558-CORK (2675). 


There are NO tickets sold at the door! 

The California Wine Fair Tour moves across Canada on the following dates:

• Tuesday, April 7th: Québec City, Espace Dalhousie
• Wednesday, April 8th: Montreal, Québec, Le Centre Sheraton
• Friday, April 10th: Ottawa, Ontario, Westin Ottawa
• Monday, April 13th: Toronto, Ontario, The Fairmont Royal York
• Wednesday, April 15th: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Halifax Convention Centre
• Wednesday, April 22nd: Edmonton, Alberta, Shaw Conference Centre
• Friday, April 24th: Calgary, Alberta, BMO Centre, Calgary Stampede, Palomino Room
• Monday, April 27th: Vancouver, British Columbia, Vancouver Convention Centre

Newsletter highlights include:

• Exceptional value wines    – reflecting the top-shelf prices attached to wine in this Holiday Season release, only 6 of 120 wines reviewed here meet the strict quality-price guidelines – ranging from $13.95 to $17.95 found throughout the entire newsletter. All are identified by the   icon. What strict guidelines?  Click here.
• 5-star Wine – four wines rang the 5-star bell – Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 @ $156.95 under California: Red Wine; Elderton ‘Ode to Lorraine’ Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz/Merlot 2010 @ $39.95 under Australia; Red Wine; Daprili Brunello Di Montalcino 2009 @ $44.95 under Italy; Red Wine; Tawse ‘Van Bers’ Cabernet Franc 2010 @ $49.95 under New in Ontario Wineries.

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. Always best to phone first.

Using the winery or agent name link in the New in Ontario Wineries, Consignment Wine or Private Order wine sections, allows you to order for home, office or restaurant delivery subject to each winery’s, or agent’s, shipping procedure.

All of us at winecurrent wish you, your family and loved ones, a Merry Christmas and happy holiday season, as well as a fervent wish for peace and prosperity for all in 2015. A donation has been made to the Salvation Army—on behalf of subscribers and everyone connected with winecurrent—to assist their tireless efforts in improving life for those most in need.

Vintages Release: December 6, 2014 

The Main Release

Fortified Wine: Port

Maynard’s ‘Reserve Finest’ Ruby Port
DOC Porto $16.95 (385237) 19.5% alcohol
This is rich, luscious and sweet showcasing aromas of dark berry fruit and baking spice. It coats the palate with black currant and kirsch liqueur interwoven with spice and sweet vanilla. There’s lots of body and texture and a lengthy aftertaste replaying delectable flavours. Pour after dinner with chocolate dessert or at any time with blue-veined cheese. (Vic Harradine)

Quinta Nova De Nossa ‘Senhora Do Carmo’ LBV Port 2009
DOC Porto $28.95 (398792) 19.5% alcohol
Vibrant, intense aromas dish up piquant spice and rich dark berry fruit. It bathes the palate with a focused stream of black cherry, dried currant and dark bittersweet chocolate. It’s full flavoured and fully textured with a lingering finish of briary berry and black currant preserve. Pour with chunks of aged white Cheddar or shards of Parmigiano Reggiano. (Vic Harradine)

Fortified Wine: Sherry

Bodegas Hidalgo Manzanilla La Gitana

DO Jerez y Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda $16.95 500 mL (745448) 15.0% alcohol

The expressive nose on this fully-textured Sherry is pure 'rancio', a term almost defying description, but think of dried, spicy fruit, over-ripe cantaloupe and burnt sugar—once experienced, never to be forgotten. This is dry, fully textured and offers salty, zesty flavours of nuts, figs and dried fruit. The finish is balanced, warm and lengthy. Serve chilled with sea food, especially briny shrimp. (Vic Harradine) 

Dessert Wine

Puklus Pincészet Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos 2008
Tokaj-Hegyalja, Hungary $35.95 (47209) 11.0% alcohol
This is traditional and quite focused; aromas of orange zest, quince jelly and honey abound. It’s fresh and lively on the palate with a nicely textured wash of peel marmalade, marzipan and buckwheat honey. It’s sweet, but beautifully restrained and balanced on a pin with excellent citrus acidity providing balance and a sweet and tang, lip-smacking finish. Pour with crème brulée. (Vic Harradine)

Specialty Wine

La Face Cachée de la Pomme ‘Neige’ Première Ice Cider 2009 

Quebec $24.95 (39305) 375 ml 10.0% alcohol 

The unique process for making this type of ice cider includes keeping the apples cool until December when they are pressed, placing the juice outside to freeze in order to concentrate the sugars, and then fermenting in tank at low temperatures for 6 months. Tawny gold, the wine is true to its source, displaying concentrated apple aromas over a backdrop of citrus and wild honey. With verve and nerve, lively acidity and intense apple flavours combine to create a lovely balanced texture. It’s a delectable taste experience and a choice companion for an artisanal cheese plate or apple crisp with maple-infused whipped cream. (Susan Desjardins)

Champagne 

Louis Roederer Premier Brut Champagne Non-Vintage

AOC Champagne $69.95 (268771) 12.0% alcohol

A Vintages Essentials product, it’s always available in select stores—from one of the top Champagne houses, it’s simply elegant. Brisk aromatics of leesy notes and baking bread interweave with almonds and red berry fruit. Tiny bubbles form a frothy mousse dishing up delightful flavours—racy lemon and peel marmalade with nuances of spiced green apple. It finishes crisp, refreshing and delectable—great value. (Vic Harradine) 

Delouvin-Bagnost ‘Tradition’ Brut Champagne Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne $47.95 (385369) 12.0% alcohol
Lifted leesy/yeasty aromas mingle with hazelnut on the nose of this fruit-forward gem. Ripe apple and poached pear roll over the palate with a profusion of fine-bead mousse. There’s good mouth feel and the crisp refreshing finish cleans up nicely with a blaze of mouth-watering tang. Not your typical Champagne as flavour and quality punch well above the price. Don’t be shy in picking up a couple for when guests drop by unexpectedly. (Vic Harradine)

Taittinger ‘Nocturne’ Champagne Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne $73.95 (385195) 12.5% alcohol
There are oodles of yeast and nutty notes on the nose preceding a balanced and beautiful, medium-bodied, nicely textured wave of peel marmalade and lemon curd bathing the palate infusing the crisp, refreshing finish. The aftertaste layers on streaks of minerality and good tang. Pour with oysters Pernod or oysters Kilpatrick. (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

  
Featherstone ‘Joy Premium Cuvée’ Sparkling Wine 2010
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula $34.95 (310334) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of warm pastry, apple and nectarine precede a gorgeous gusher of poached pear, peach pie and apple torte garnished with fine-bead bubbles laced with racy lemon zest. There’s great tang and firm structure throughout along with deft balance and a clean, refreshing aftertaste in this vintage-dated bubbly. Pour as a welcoming wine or with lighter-styled appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

 
Jackson-Triggs ‘Entourage Grand Reserve Brut’ 2011
VQA Niagara Peninsula $22.95 (234161) 12.5% alcohol
This is Pinot Noir dominant, made in the method of Champagne with a price-quality balance that tips well in your favour. A subdued nose of floral and citrus notes portend a smooth flow of firm and focused flavour with apple, ripe pear and white nectarine to the fore. It’s well balanced with good texture and a zippy, refreshing finish. Pour alongside roast chicken, turkey or pork. (Vic Harradine)

Gloria Ferrer ‘Sonoma Brut’ Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage

Sonoma County $27.95 (192898) 12.5% alcohol 

There’s a pretty peachy-pink tinge to this golden wine with appealing aromas of bread yeast, toasted nuts, ripe orchard fruit and citrus that carry through on the palate. Bright and fresh on the attack, it’s dry and mid weight with an impressive creamy mousse that reflects its effervescent character. Lively on the finish, it’s a great wine to whet your appetite. (Susan Desjardins) 

Cave de Ribeauvillé ‘Giersberger Brut’ Crémant d’Alsace Non-Vintage
AOC Alsace $19.95 (183624) 12.0% alcohol
Floral aromas interlace with minerality and lemon citrus on the nose. There’s a delicious wave of tropical fruit—melon, pineapple and notions of mango—mingling with racy, refreshing grapefruit and Key lime. This is well balanced, with frothy fine-bead bubbles and a clean, crisp and moth-watering finish. There’s a world of good value here. (Vic Harradine)

Pierre Sparr ‘Brut’ Rosé Crémant d’Alsace Non-Vintage

AOC Alsace $17.95 (39016) 12.0% alcohol

Pale salmon and crafted from Pinot Noir, the delicate aromas of red field berries come through on the crisp, bright and fresh palate. Just off-dry, light-medium bodied and fruity, it delivers a fine mousse and lively acidity. A refreshing and delightful choice. (Susan Desjardins) 

La Marca Prosecco Non-Vintage 

DOC Veneto $17.95 (287987) 11.7% alcohol 

Here’s a light and lively sparkling wine that shouldn’t be missed. It has wonderful aromas, oodles of fruit flavour and a crisp finish. Floral, lime and orchard fruit aromas introduce a painter’s palette of flavour with lemon chiffon pie, orange sherbet and ripe, sweet apple and pear to the fore. It’s light on its feet and the perfect welcoming wine or party starter. Drinks well on its own or paired with lighter-styled appetizers. The price –quality ratio skews well in your favour. (Vic Harradine) 

Sumarroca ‘Gran Reserva Brut Nature’ Cava 2009
DO Spain $18.95 (393504) 11.5% alcohol
Lovely aromas of minerality, citrus and ripe apple open the door to a nicely textured fruity profusion of bubbles with flavours of poached pear, Mirabelle plum and caramel to the fore. It’s all cleaned up nicely with a racy surge of lemon curd and wisps of white grapefruit. Flavours and tang replay on the crisp finish. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

  
Featherstone ‘Canadian Oak’ Chardonnay 2012

VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (149302) 11.0% alcohol   

Can’t get more ‘local’ than this gem from Featherstone—estate grown grapes, indigenous east, aged in barrels hewn from nearby oak. There’s baking spice, smoky/toasty bits and earthy, flowers-in-the-forest notes on the nose. Deftly balanced flavours of spiced, baked apple and lemon-pie filling abound. It demands even more attention on the finish, with hints of grapefruit pith, toasty oak and red licorice rounding things out. (Vic Harradine) 

  
Southbrook ‘organic - triomphe’ Chardonnay 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $22.95 (172338) 13.1 % alcohol
Orchard fruit aromas interweave with hazelnut and leesy notes on the nose of this mid-plus bodied beautifully textured Chardonnay. A persistent flow of ripe apple and pear mingle with lemony citrus, minerality and grapefruit pith on the palate and lingering tangy aftertaste. Good to go now with roast pork and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Red Wine

  
13th Street ‘Sandstone’ Gamay Noir 2011
VQA Niagara Peninsula $29.95 (130195) 13.0% alcohol
Sandalwood spice and berry fruit aromas set the tone for a balanced and focused stream of juicy black berry and tangy red cherry cloaked in toasty notes and baking spice. It’s medium weight with good texture and finishes with each sip as good or better than the previous. Pours particularly well with roast chicken or turkey, and as a go to red for those not fond of tannin. (Vic Harradine)

Okanagan Valley: Red Wine

  
Burrowing Owl Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
VQA Okanagan Valley $44.95 (73098) 14.0% alcohol
This is rich and fruit-forward throughout with deft balance and a gentle lick of tannin. Aromas of red and black cherry/berry and piquant spice give way to a medium-weight, textured wash of briary berry, pungent herbs and sharp spice. The finish replays flavours persisting through the aftertaste then joined by dark bittersweet chocolate. (Vic Harradine)

  
Laughing Stock ‘Blind Trust Red’ 2012
VQA Okanagan Valley $37.95 (230110) 14.5% alcohol
Savory herbs dominate the nose on this light-on-its-feet red, Bordeaux blend. A delicate stream of boysenberry and dark cherry bathe the palate with notions of mocha. The finish contributes good acidity, a supple tannin underpinning and wisps of fennel and roasted herbs. Pour with burgers, pizza or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

  
Meyer Pinot Noir 2012
VQA Okanagan Valley $29.95 (392449) 13.0% alcohol
Grilled herbs and red berry fruit on the nose, this bathes the palate with a mid-weight, softly textured Pinot with savory-infused passion fruit and ripe red berry fruit to the fore. It’s a bistro-styled red with oodles of spice and acidity. It finishes in a blaze of red cherry/berry fruit. This pours well with tomato-sauce-laden, spicy meat loaf. (Vic Harradine)

California: White Wine

Decoy Chardonnay 2013
Sonoma County $24.95 (311555) 13.5% alcohol
Crisp green apple, spice and pit fruit aromas mingle on the nose of this full-bodied gem. It coats the palate with a creamy-smooth surge of minerality, crisp pear and Mirabelle plum. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouth feel and nicely balanced with a dry, crisp and refreshing aftertaste. Roast chicken, turkey or slow-roast pork pairs well. (Vic Harradine)

Kendall-Jackson ‘Grand Reserve’ Chardonnay 2012
Monterey & Santa Barbara Counties $27.95 (59576) 13.5% alcohol
This has good focus and purity of fruit and is balanced on a pin. It surges over the palate with honeydew melon, peel marmalade and grilled pineapple mingling with racy lemon acidity. It’s mid-plus weight and fully textured with a lingering finish that’s dry, crisp and mouth watering. It pours well with pan-seared scallops or skillet pork medallions. (Vic Harradine)

St. Francis Chardonnay 2012
Sonoma County $19.95 (317131) 14.2% alcohol
This is very good value dishing up a blockbuster mouthful of flavour that’s both balanced and beautiful. Aromas of caramel, toast and nutty notes lead the parade to a full flavoured, fully textured gusher of tropical fruit, pineapple and baking spice. More flavours vibrate through the lingering finish with racy citrus, vanilla and quince jelly to the fore. (Vic Harradine)

Treana Marsanne/Viognier 2011
Central Coast $29.95 (11247) 14.5% alcohol
This complex, even-split blend opens with aromas of orange zest, honeyed peach and pear. Buttery smooth with medium weight and loads of spice on the palate, waves of off-dry white peach, grilled pineapple and mango interweave with piquant spice and buckwheat honey. It finishes with replays—crisp, clean and refreshing. It pours perfectly with baked ham, of course. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 

Napa Valley $49.95 (91058) 14.3% alcohol 

Savory herbs, piquant spice, gamy notes and dark berry fruit aromas precede a structured, complex wash of black currant and ripe mulberry melding with kirsch liqueur, charred toast and a solid tannin underpinning. It’s mid-full bodied with good texture and lengthy finish that layers on more fruit and perceptible tannin. Pop corks 2016-2021. (Vic Harradine) 

Bogle ‘Essential Red’ 2012
California $19.95 (394452) 13.5% alcohol
Sweet vanilla, bramble berry and baking spice aromas herald a medium-full bodied, fully textured, fruit-drenched wash of ripe mulberry, spiced black currant and bramble berry pie. It’s a hedonistic crowd-pleaser with oodles of concentrated flavour and spice. The aftertaste replays flavours with accuracy, and good balance to boot. (Vic Harradine)

Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Napa Valley $156.95 (709881) 14.2% alcohol
My highest compliment; had to force myself to spit this stylish Cab. The rich, lifted nose offers a tapestry of aromas—dark berry fruit, espresso roast, dark chocolate and black licorice. This is structured and dense with complexity and deft balance. Cassis, sweet ripe mulberry and dark juicy cherry interlace with dark bittersweet chocolate and a supple tannin underpinning. It finishes lengthy with good fruit, excellent acidity and plenty of panache. (Vic Harradine)

Cliff Lede Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
Stags Leap District, Napa Valley $79.95 (14217) 14.3% alcohol
There’s a splash of Merlot, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec here. It wafts from the glass with aromas of baking spice, mocha, vanilla and mixed field berry fruit. It’s mid-plus weight with highly textured mouth feel and a boatload of flavour—briary berry, juicy black currant and red currant interwoven with exotic spice and toasty bits. There are wisps of tannin on the balanced, tangy finish. Aerate/decant two hours before serving with steak tartare or steak au poivre. (Vic Harradine)

Decoy Pinot Noir 2013
Sonoma County $35.95 (191833) 13.5% alcohol
Cedar, Asian spice and toasty/smoky oak aromas on the nose, it dishes up a delightful stream of sweet mulberry, kirsch liqueur and black berry jam robed in excellent, moderating acidity and soft tannin. It’s mid weight with good mouth feel and a mid-length, balanced and mouth-watering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Francis Ford Coppola ‘Director’s Cut’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County $36.95 (61002) 13.5% alcohol
Smoke and toast aromas introduce a balanced and structured river of boysenberry and savory spice robed in toasty oak, sweet vanilla and kirsch liqueur. This is mid weight with fleshy mouth feel and long, balanced aftertaste of espresso roast and earthy notes. It’s good to go now with comfort food—burgers or Salisbury steak. (Vic Harradine)

La Crema Pinot Noir 2012
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County $44.95 (906404) 14.5% alcohol
This is a stylish Pinot Noir with complexity and charm. Piquant spice, red and black berry fruit and dark coffee aromas intro an expressive gusher of sharp spice, cranberry and pomegranate streaking over the palate garnished with sweet ripe bramble berry and savory herbs and spice. The absolutely gorgeous aftertaste is complex, fruity and well balanced. (Vic Harradine)

Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
California $21.95 (224162) 13.5% alcohol
Pungent herbs and spice mingle with espresso roast and sweet vanilla on the nose, a portent of a nicely textured wash of ripe mulberry and tangy bramble berry washing over the palate in waves. This is medium weight with a lingering aftertaste of cassis and herbs, and supple tannin underpinning. Pour alongside chicken or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir 2012
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County $24.95 (48207) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of sandalwood spice and earthy notes reveal a tangy, racy line of sour cherry and passion fruit garnished with sprigs of savory herbs and manageable, fine-grained tannin that spill over the palate persisting through the lengthy, lip-smacking finish. Flavours replay on the aftertaste with balance and charm; pour alongside grilled duck breasts. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

Cicchitti ‘Gran Reserva’ Malbec 2004

Mendoza $22.95 (155713) 14.0% alcohol

Deep-purple hued and alluringly aromatic, this wine offers an irresistible nose of sweet, dark, ripe berry fruit, toast, spice and earthy notes. Dry and medium-full bodied, the dark fruit—black berries and cherries— is quite focused with spice, pepper and toast tantalizing the palate. Mature tannin and fine acidity provide the requisite balance. Enjoy now with hearty grilled fare or cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)

Susana Balbo ‘Signature’ Malbec 2012
Mendoza $19.95 (79798) 14.0% alcohol
Grilled herbs, pipe tobacco and sharp spice aromas meld with dark berry fruit on the nose of this mid-plus weight, tang-laden Malbec. It bathes the palate with sweet berry fruit—bramble berry and black currant—and great nerve and verve from cranberry and sour cherry. This showcases good balance, structure and a mid-length finish that’s dry, racy and mouth-watering. (Vic Harradine)

Terrazas De Los Andes ‘Reserva’ Malbec 2011
Mendoza $18.95 (29280) 14.0% alcohol
Dark chocolate, espresso roast and pipe tobacco aromas are harbingers of a sweet, ripe wash of black currant and juicy black cherry robed in roasted herbs and black plum. This is mid-plus weight with good texture and lengthy, balanced aftertaste. Pour alongside grilled steak, gourmet burgers or grilled back ribs. (Vic Harradine)

Trapiche ‘Vina Jorge Miralles Terroir Series Single Vineyard’ Malbec 2009
Mendoza $39.95 (261040) 15.0% alcohol
This is a hedonistic, crowd pleaser with ripe fruit galore. Bramble berry, cedar and exotic spice aromas leap from the glass unleashing a gorgeous river of black currant, sweet, ripe mulberry and juicy, black Bing cherry flavour garnished with charred toast and bittersweet chocolate. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a lengthy, fruit forward aftertaste—quite a gift to place under a wine-lover’s tree. (Vic Harradine)

Chile: Red Wine

Luis Felipe Edwards ‘Gran Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Colchagua Valley $17.95 (169847) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of baking spice, savory herbs and toasty bits announce a rich, balanced wash of sweet ripe fruit—black juicy cherry, briary berry and black plum compote. It’s structured, medium-full weight and satin smooth with a generous lengthy finish—kirsch liqueur and red currant balancing each other on the mouth-watering aftertaste. Good to go now with burgers, steak and beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

Montes Alpha Merlot 2011
Colchagua Valley $19.95 (22228) 14.0% alcohol
Bold aromas of spice-laden berry fruit and savory herbs set the table for a smorgasbord of flavours on the palate with black raspberry and dark cherry mingling with piquant spice, mocha and notions of black licorice. This is mid-full weight with good mouth feel and a balanced fish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Montes ‘Purple Angel’ 2011 

Colchagua Valley, Chile $62.95 (62364) 14.5% alcohol 

One of Chile’s top drops, it offers tantalizing aromas of savory herbs, floral notes and dark berry fruit. It spills over the palate with good, tangy acidity, cassis and dark cherry adorned with savory herbs and espresso roast. This is full bodied and fully flavoured, well balanced, showcasing purity of fruit and complexity with a memorable dry, lip-smacking aftertaste. What’s not to like? (Vic Harradine)

Santa Carolina ‘Barrica Selection’ Petit Verdot 2011

Rapel Valley $15.95 (7484) 14.5% alcohol

The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; it’s ripe, delicious and chockfull of flavour. There are aromas of espresso roast, charred toasty notes and ripe, dark fruit on the nose. It dishes up a fruit-filled wash of ripe, luscious flavour of sweet mulberry, briary berry and bittersweet chocolate that rolls over the palate in waves infusing the lingering, tangy aftertaste. This is full bodied, textured and delectable. (Vic Harradine) 

Australia: White Wine

Mountadam Estate Chardonnay 2009

High Eden, Eden Valley, South Australia $21.95 (333211) 14.0% alcohol

This is stylish and structured, approaching sensational. Expressive aromas of mocha, cinnamon and wood smoke abound. There’s a truckload of fruit on the palate with apple, pear and blood orange mixing it up with grilled pineapple, grapefruit and honeydew melon. The lingering finish is clean and stylish with orchard fruit, spice and mouth-watering citrus tang. (Vic Harradine) 

Australia: Red Wine

Dandelion Vineyards ‘Lioness of McLaren Vale’ Shiraz 2012
McLaren Vale, South Australia $19.95 (357475) 14.5% alcohol
This is very good value. A heady, rich nose explodes from the glass with aromas of sweet vanilla, dark coffee and toasty oak. Kirsch liqueur, black currant preserve and racy red currant interweave with peppery notes and chocolate coating the palate, infusing the finish. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a lingering, lip-smacking aftertaste. How good is that? (Vic Harradine)

Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier Shiraz/Viognier 2012
Victoria $23.95 (18887) 13.5% alcohol
This Wine of the Month opens with a quiet nose of savory herbs and minerality spilling over the palate with a tight, focused stream of sour cherry and red currant robed in spice and flecks of fennel. It’s medium bodied and nicely textured with a dry, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. This pours well with pasta in tomato sauce or veal Marsala. (Vic Harradine)

Elderton ‘Ode to Lorraine’ Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz/Merlot 2010
Barossa Valley, South Australia $39.95 (976423) 14.7% alcohol
Elderton is a premium Aussie winery with a terrific track record—this was difficult to spit. Roasted herbs, red berry fruit and mocha set the stage for a rich, luscious, balanced river of black and red currant melding with cassis and kirsch liqueur on the palate. This has good weight and texture with purity of fruit and good structure. The monumentally long finish is balanced and beautiful. (Vic Harradine)

Hope ‘The Cracker’ Cabernet Merlot 2011
Geographe, Western Australia $19.95 (20206) 14.0% alcohol
Fruit was grown just south of Perth—think Vancouver—then shipped by truck to the winery in the Hunter Valley—think Halifax. Must is cooled for the three-day journey producing brilliant colour and extraction. Roasted herbs and tobacco intro an expressive, medium-bodied, nicely textured river of savory-tinged ripe mulberry and red cherry topped with dark chocolate. There’s a bite on the dry, lengthy finish. (Vic Harradine)

Ladies Who Shoot Their Lunch Shiraz 2012
Victoria $35.95 (243592) 13.5% alcohol
Cooler-climate Victoria produces Aussie Shiraz one might mistake for Rhône Valley Syrah. A tang-infused stream of sour cherry and pomegranate showers the palate interlaced with campfire smoke and pungent herbs. It’s medium bodied with good texture and a mid-length aftertaste of herbs, spice and red berry fruit. Good to go now with grilled lamb chops and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

Wakefield ‘Jaraman’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Clair Valley/Coonawarra, South Australia $24.95 (142398) 14.5% alcohol
Cedar, campfire smoke and spiced, dried currant aromas make way for savory-laced flavours of sweet, ripe mulberry and kirsch liqueur framed in a solid line of tangy acidity. This is mid-plus bodied with good mouth feel underpinned by soft, fine-grained tannin. It finishes dry with good balance and plenty of fruit. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: White Wine

  
Framingham Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Marlborough, South Island $17.95 (606848) 13.0% alcohol
The lifted nose of canned peas and lemongrass sets the table for a smorgasbord of searing acidity—gooseberry, passion fruit and lemon. This is mid weight with good mouth feel and a lengthy, well-balanced finish that layers on ripe peach and nectarine. This pours well with spinach and chèvre pie. (Vic Harradine)

Konrad Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Marlborough, South Island $19.95 (616243) 13.0% alcohol
Grapefruit and lime cordial aromas waft from this pleasant, bistro-styled Sauvignon Blanc. A balanced wash of quince jelly and gooseberry mingles with lemon curd as it tumbles over the palate, crisp and refreshing. This is medium bodied with good mouth feel and a pleasant finish that’s nicely balanced with sweet and tang. (Vic Harradine)

Marisco ‘The King’s Bastard’ Chardonnay 2012
Wairau Valley, Marlborough, South Island $19.95 (393694) 13.5% alcohol
This is a dazzling Chardonnay offering very good value to boot. Yellow-straw hued in the glass, this offers toasty/flinty aromas before bathing the palate with a deftly balanced river of ripe orchard fruit, racy lemon citrus and hints of caramel apple. It’s mid-plus weight with satin-smooth mouth feel and crisp, mouth-watering finish. (Vic Harradine

 
Villa Maria ‘Southern Clays Single Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Marlborough, South Island $29.95 (388405) 13.0% alcohol
Savory herbs and gunflint aromas are precursors to a zesty, clean flow of lemon-lime, racy white grapefruit and passion fruit. This is light on its feet with delicate texture and a mid-length finish and aftertaste. It pours well with grilled calamari rings or crumbled chèvre and olive oil over mesclun salad greens. (Vic Harradine)

South Africa: Red Wine

Ernie Els ‘Big Easy’ 2012
WO Western Cape $19.95 (220038) 14.5% alcohol
One of the world’s top golfers, he’s also revered for his tireless work in raising funds and awareness for research and work with children and young adults with autism—Els for Autism. Involved aromas of fennel, herbs and toasty oak precede a tang-laden line of red currant and cranberry decorated with espresso roast and sprigs of savory herbs. It’s mid-plus bodied with good texture and a dry, balanced finish. (Vic Harradine)

KWV ‘The Mentors Canvas’ 2011
WO Coastal Region $29.95 (348839) 14.5% alcohol
Winecurrent subscribers were alerted to the astounding ‘Mentor’ series from KWV back in 2012—it now draws accolades and is not to be missed. Intense, rich aromas of dark berry fruit and Christmas cake spice announce a spirited river of tangy red and black currant adorned with roasted herbs and baking spice. It’s a stylish blend—Shiraz, Tempranillo, Mourvèdre, Grenache—balanced and structured with purity of fruit persisting through the dry, mouth-watering finish. (Vic Harradine)

France: White Wine

Anne de Laweiss ‘Vieilles Vignes Lieu-Dit Patergarten’ Pinot Gris 2013
AOC Alsace $21.95 (390682) 13.0% alcohol
Exotic spice, floral notes and yellow peach reveal an off-dry profusion of flavour—blood orange, lemongrass and honeyed melon. It’s delicately textured, nicely balanced and with a pleasing medium-length finish of sweet and tang. Pour with spicy Asian or Tex-Mex dishes. (Vic Harradine)

Henri Ehrhart ‘Réserve Particulière’ Gewürztraminer 2012
AOC Alsace $19.95 (392118) 12.0% alcohol
This opens with soft aromas of exotic incense, quince and rose petals. A spice-laden, barely off-dry wash of spiced yellow plum and ripe pear garnished with nectarine bathes the palate. It’s light on its feet throughout with a mid-length aftertaste of spice and poached pear—a delightful quaffer. (Vic Harradine)

Pierre Sparr ‘Réserve’ Gewürztraminer 2012
AOC Alsace $17.95 (747600) 13.0% alcohol
Lychee, spice and sweet floral notes herald a spice-infused flow of lemony tang and rosewater-drenched red apple and poached pear. It’s mid weight with creamy-smooth mouth feel and an off-dry, delightful mouthful of sweet and tang—balanced and beautiful. Give it a go with Alsatian onion tart. (Vic Harradine)

Château La Grave d’Arzac Blanc 2012
AOC Graves $15.95 (206714) 12.0% alcohol
Floral aromas meld with spice and tropical fruit on the nose of this Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon blend. There’s a truckload of fruit on the palate with tangy citrus, ripe white nectarine and crisp green apple. It’s medium bodied with good texture and a long, crisp, clean and mouth-watering aftertaste. This pours particularly well with pan-seared fish and seafood and is well priced. (Vic Harradine)

Domaine Louis Moreau Chablis 2013
AOC Chablis $24.95 (124305) 12.5% alcohol
Citrus and savory herb aromas jump from the glass setting the stage for a broad, smooth wave of lemon-lime tang garnished with clementines and piquant spice. It’s nicely structured with good purity of fruit and plenty of style and charm. This will pair and pour well with freshly shucked oysters or pan-seared scallops. (Vic Harradine)

Fellet Bourgogne Blanc 2013
AOC Bourgogne $19.95 (390484) 12.5% alcohol
Showcasing structure and focus, very soft aromas of tropical fruit, lemony citrus and floral notes open a tangy stream of flavour streaking over the palate with crisp green apple, ripe juicy pear and yellow peach dominant. Mid weight and nicely textured, flavours replay on the lingering aftertaste, crisp and refreshing. Roast chicken or pork would be suitable dance partners. (Vic Harradine)

Hervé Azo Chablis 2012
AOC Chablis $19.95 (185736) 12.5% alcohol
Thirty-year-old Chardonnay vines and non-intrusive winemaking techniques coalesce to produce this lively, structured and stylish Chablis. Aromas of gun flint, mineral notes and citrus set the table for a feast of palate-bathing flavour—blood orange, lemon-lime tang and wisps of pineapple. It finishes in a blaze of lip-smacking acidity with wisps of grapefruit pith on the aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Pierre André Meursault 2011
AOC Meursault $49.95 (732792) 13.5% alcohol
This is balanced and structured with charm and complexity. Smoke, charred toast and piquant spice aromas abound. A tang-laden flow of lemon curd, and grapefruit with wisps of toasted oak bathing the palate, medium-full bodied and very nicely textured. There’s good fruit and oodles of acidity on the lip-smacking finish. Pour alongside pan-seared freshwater fish. (Vic Harradine

Thierry Delaunay Sauvignon Blanc Touraine 2013
AOC Touraine $14.95 (391847) 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of piquant spice, savory herbs and flinty/mineral bits drift from the nose of this lightly hued Sauvignon Blanc. It streaks over the palate with great nerve and verve, lemon curd, Key lime and white grapefruit. It’s light-medium bodied with a dry, mouth-watering finish. Pair with grilled calamari rings or grilled prawns. (Vic Harradine)

Château du Trignon Viognier Côtes du Rhone 2013
AOC Côtes du Rhône $18.95 (394585) 13.0% alcohol
Fragrant aromas of honeyed apple, floral notes and pear introduce a glorious river of sweet fruit with hints of tang—honeyed pit fruit, Mirabelle plum, red licorice and Meyer lemon. It’s mid-plus weight with satin-smooth mouth feel and great acidity throughout. Flavours replay on the lengthy, well balanced finish. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

Château du Courlat 2010
AOC Lussac-Saint-Émilion $24.95 (2238) 14.5% alcohol
Spiced dark cherry and black plum aromas set the table for a feast of flavour with ripe fruit to the fore—sweet, mulberry, dark cherry and black currant. It’s mid weight with decent mouth feel and lengthy, dry and balanced aftertaste. Pour with grilled back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Château La Gorre 2010
AOC Médoc $25.95 (388272) 13.5% alcohol
This is a gorgeous Cru Bourgeois; unfined and unfiltered, it’s a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot aged 12 months in French oak barrels. Floral notes, pipe tobacco and dark berry fruit aromas lead the way to delectable waves of cassis, ripe mulberry and dried currant bathing the palate, replaying on the balanced finish. It’s mid weight with good texture and quite good value. (Vic Harradine)

Château Ricaud 2010
AOC Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux $17.95 (390237) 13.0% alcohol
Peppery notes, dark berries and espresso roast aromas abound. Cassis and black currant coat the palate with notions of spice and peppery notes. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouth feel and a finish that’s laced with still-evolving tannin. This cellar dweller will reward careful, patient cellaring, pop corks 2018-2026. (Vic Harradine)

Domaine de Grand Garant ‘Le Vivier’ Fleurie 2013
AOC Fleurie $18.95 (398404) 12.5% alcohol
Fleurie is one of the ten ‘Cru Beaujolais’ sub-regions for Beaujolais and known for its soft texture and aromas of violets. Mocha and toasty oak aromas lead the way to a spice-laden wash of tangy sour cherry and pomegranate underpinned by still-evolving tannin. This is medium bodied and nicely textured with a drying finish and aftertaste. Pop corks 2016 to 2022 alongside meat-lovers pizza. (Vic Harradine)

Georges Duboeuf ‘Domaine Mont Chavy’ Morgon 2013
AOC Morgon $21.95 (276477) 12.5% alcohol
Morgon is one of the ten ‘Cru Beaujolais’ sub-regions and known for its earthy wines with good weight and structure. There’s a lifted nose of dark berry fruit and cassis followed by a gusher of cassis, black currant and oodles of spice throughout here. It’s medium bodied and structured, finishing with drying tannin. Aerate/decant two hours before pouring with steak and kidney pie. (Vic Harradine)

Hiver Festif Juliénas 2013
AOC Juliénas $17.95 (390492) 13.0% alcohol
Juliénas is one of the ten ‘Cru Beaujolais sub-regions and known for their rich, spicy wines and aromas of peonies. Spice, red berry fruit and notions of blueberry on the nose, it streaks over the palate with spice-infused sour cherry and red currant. There’s grippy tannin peeking though and will reward patience—pop corks 2016 to 2019. (Vic Harradine)

Moillard ‘Tradition’ Pinot Noir Bourgogne 2012
AOC Bourgogne $24.95 (66399) 12.5% alcohol
Sharp spice and dark cherry/berry fruit aromas reveal a searing line of red currant, pomegranate and sour cherry acidity. Medium bodied and nicely balanced, there’s good texture and plenty of nerve and verve. The dry, mouth-watering aftertaste is crisp and refreshing. Pour with smoked, seared duck breasts. (Vic Harradine)

Joseph Mellot ‘Les Morinières’ Chinon 2013
AOC Chinon $17.95 (397208) 12.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of spice, espresso roast and dark berry fruit swirl from this mid-weight, nicely textured Cabernet Franc. It’s tang-infused and racy on the palate with a surge of red currant and cranberry mingling with spice and drying tannin persisting through the racy, mouth-watering finish. Aerate/decant two hours before pouring with spaghetti Bolognese. (Vic Harradine)

Domaine de Bila-Haut ‘Occultum Lapidem’ 2012
AOC Côtes de Roussillon-Villages $24.95 (643239) 14.5% alcohol
From the doyen of the Rhône Valley, Michel Chapoutier, this jumps from the glass with aromas of roasted herbs, gamy notes and notions of tar and black licorice. It bathes the palate, medium bodied and well textured, with a river of briary berry and dark juicy cherry garnished with piquant spice and framed with good acidity. Supple tannin underpins it all—aerate/decant three hours. (Vic Harradine)

Lavau Rasteau 2012
AOC Rasteau $19.95 (394650) 14.5% alcohol
Dense and viscous, this Grenache-Syrah blend reflects the alcohol. A portion was barrel aged for 12 months. The nose showcases fresh ripe berries, notes of pepper, spice and garrigue. Ripe fruit rushes the palate with tasty notes of exotic spice and pepper carried on the bright clean texture. It’s dry, mid-plus bodied, generous and balanced, with supple tannin and acidity accenting the bright, lively berry fruit on the fresh, lengthy finish. Serve with cassoulet or chicken tagine. (Susan Desjardins)

Vidal-Fleury Vacqueyras 2012
AOC Vacqueyras $24.95 (394643) 13.5% alcohol
The involved nose is a tapestry of aromas—lilacs, black currant, toasty oak and baking spice. A balanced wash of dark and red berry fruit melds with dark cherry, tar and racy red currant. It’s medium-full weight with good mouth feel and a lengthy finish of ripe fruit, good acidity and soft tannin. Good to go now and on to 2022, this pours well with osso bucco or coq au vin. (Vic Harradine)

Château Nozières ‘Cuvée Ambroise de l’Her’ Malbec Cahors 2011
AOC Cahors $17.95 (276055) 14.5% alcohol
This is full bodied, fully textured and loaded for bear. It leaps from the glass with dark berry fruit, toasty oak and dark coffee aromas. A surge of rich luscious cassis and ripe mulberry coats the palate framed by good moderating acidity with a supple tannin underpinning and oodles of charm. Flavours replay on the fruity finish. (Vic Harradine)

Germany: White Wine

Loosen Bros. ‘Dr. L’ Riesling 2013
Qualitätswein $13.95 (599274) 8.5% alcohol
The quiet nose barely allows minerality and citrus aromas to be coaxed out. There’s a gusher of sweet and tang on the palate, though, with sweet pit fruit and ripe apple and pear to the fore. It’s light on its feet and delicately textured with a mid-length sweet and tang finish. This pours exceptionally well with spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)

Dr. Bürklin-Wolf Estate Trocken Riesling 2012
Qualitätswein $19.95 (991315) 12.5% alcohol
This is surprisingly complex, structured and flavourful, given it’s Qualitätswein—formerly QbA. Piquant spice and Granny Smith apple aromas open the floodgates to spice-infused apple and juicy white peach and pear garnished with racy lemon acidity flowing over the palate in waves. A delightfully, crisp, clean and refreshing finish is a lovely bonus. It also offers very good value; pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

Lingenfelder ‘Bird Label’ Riesling 2012 

Pfalz Qualitätswein $14.95 (568634) 11.5% alcohol 

A reliably good-value purchase, this ‘Bird’ is pleasantly off-dry, displaying aromas and flavours of white flowers, lime, peach, apple and mineral. There’s great balance of fruit and acidity with a touch of spice on the finish. Enjoy with lightly spiced dishes. (Susan Desjardins) 

Italy: White Wine

Pieropan Soave Classico 2013
DOC Soave Classico $19.95 (946848) 12.0% alcohol
This rises so far above the vast majority of Soave, you might be tempted to drink only this one—it’s flavourful, balanced and über refreshing. Floral notes interweave with steely/flinty minerality and citrus on the nose of this organic, hand-harvested, blend—85 % Garganega, 15% Trebbiano di Soave. It bathes the palate with a nicely textured flow of ripe peach, pear and apple framed in lemon acidity. This finish is crisp, clean and lip-smacking delicious; pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: Red Wine

Pecchenino San Giuseppe Barolo 2010
DOCG Barolo $53.95 (181396) 14.5% alcohol
Lilac and tar aromas open the door to a balanced and beautiful stream of briary berry, spice-laden red cherry and dried currant adorned with black licorice and baking spice. It’s mid-plus weight with creamy smooth mouth feel and a lengthy finish and aftertaste adding sweet vanilla and notions of mocha. This is drinking well now and should do until 2022 and beyond. (Vic Harradine)

Pier Pajun Barbera d’Alba Superiore 2009
DOC Barbera d’Alba Superiore $17.95 (394593) 14.0% alcohol
Dried berry fruit, tobacco and spice aromas set the table for an array of flavours—sweet, ripe mulberry, red current and kirsch liqueur robed in spice and herbs. It’s medium bodied with good mouth feel and a racy, lip-smacking aftertaste of red berry fruit and sour cherry that’s balanced and lip-smacking good. Pour with roasted poblano peppers stuffed with tomato, sausage and onion. (Vic Harradine)

Cantine Due Palme Primitivo 2012
IGP Salento $15.95 (658351) 13.5% alcohol
This oozes with sweet, ripe fruit; it’s a crowd-pleasing beauty at a very good price. Dark juicy cherry/berry fruit aromas flirt with spice and pipe tobacco on the alluring nose. It washes over the palate with black currant and sweet mulberry mingling with spice and toasty oak. A lovely quaffer on its own, it’s perfectly paired with grilled back ribs slathered with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Poderi Angelini Primitivo Di Manduria 2009
DOC Primitivo Di Manduria $19.95 (268136) ??% alcohol
This shows some age in the glass with an orangey, brick-hued edge. Briary berry and cassis meld with spice and sweet vanilla coating the palate and persisting through the lengthy finish. This is well structured with purity of fruit and plenty of excellent acidity providing balance and a racy, mouth-watering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Daprili Brunello Di Montalcino 2009
DOCG Brunello Di Montalcino $44.95 (398073) 15.0% alcohol
This is stylish and structured with deft balance and time on its side. The alluring bouquet offers aromas of incense, roasted herbs, floral notes and mixed field berry fruit. It coats the palate with a creamy smooth wash of juicy black currant, red cherry and notions of cranberry interwoven with truffles and aromatic bitters. It’s full bodied and beautifully structured with a lengthy aftertaste combining juicy ripe fruit, racy acidity and a supple tannin presence. Improving with age, pour 2016 to 2024; if earlier, a three-hour aeration/decant is suggested. (Vic Harradine)

Castello Di Spaltenna Chianti Classico 2011
DOCG Chianti Classico $19.95 (388678) 14.0% alcohol
This Wine of the Month selection opens with aromas of dark cherry/berry fruit interlaced with aromatic bitters. It streaks over the palate with red cherry and red currant garnished with pungent herbs and spice. Medium bodied and reasonably textured, the dry finish replays the refreshing acidity underpinned by soft tannin. It’s good to pour now with spaghetti and meatballs, meat-laden pizza or pasta in tomato sauce.

Sartori Corte Brà Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2008
DOC Amarone Della Valpolicella $49.95 (225540) 15.5% alcohol
Medium weight and satiny smooth on the palate, it oozes panache. Sexy aromas of fig, dark raisin and pipe tobacco abound. It’s gorgeously structured and deftly balanced. A river of palate-bathing bramble berry pie and black plum interlace with spice and dark bittersweet chocolate persisting through the rich, luscious aftertaste. Pour with a fine cut of meat, say rare-grilled skirt steak. (Vic Harradine) 

Portugal: Red Wine

Gloria ‘Reserva’ 2011
DOC Douro $16.95 (146522) 14.0% alcohol
A blend of premium Port grapes—50% Touriga Nacional, 25% Tinta Roriz, 25% Touriga Franca—this leaps from the glass with cherry cordial and piquant spice aromas. It coats the palate with a structured, delectable, crowd-pleasing river of bramble berry and mulberry preserve interwoven with red currant tang. It’s balanced, mid-plus weight with creamy smooth texture and a lingering, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pick up a few for delightful imbibing now to 2018. (Vic Harradine)

Spain: Red Wine

Abando ‘Vendimia Seleccionada Crianza’ 2008
DOCa Rioja $18.95 (384396) 14.0% alcohol
Baking spice and cherry cordial aromas herald a spice-infused, tang-laden flow of cranberry and pomegranate garnished with flecks of still-evolving tannin. It’s medium bodied with a dry, racy, refreshing aftertaste. After a two-hour aeration/decant, pour with lasagna or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Bodegas Balbás ‘Ardal’ Crianza 2005

DO Ribera del Duero $16.95 (167601) 14.0% alcohol

This red blend—90% Tempranillo, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon—opens with a richly perfumed bouquet of dark berry fruit, vanilla and floral aromas. It’s well balanced, medium-full bodied with a textured mouth feel and flavour galore—racy red berry and sweet ripe red cherry adorned by spice and hints of toasty notes. There’s a lip-smacking lingering finish that sets it up for a delightful pairing with meat and prawn paella. (Vic Harradine)

Descendientes De J. Palacios Pétalos 2012
DO Bierzo $26.95 (675207) 14.0% alcohol
Lively, fresh aromas of pungent spice and red cherry/berry set the stage for a tang-infused wash of red fruit—plum, sour cherry and currant. It’s medium weight and still tight and taut with piquant spice and savory herbs making an appearance on the dry, mouth-watering aftertaste. Aerate/decant three-hours before serving. (Vic Harradine)

Monasterio De Las Viñas ‘Gran Reserva’ 2005
DO Cariñena $16.95 (82024) 13.0% alcohol
Grilled herbs and red cherry interweave with aromas of truffles and leather on the nose of this aged red blend of mostly Garnacha and Tempranillo. It’s quite tangy and spicy with cranberry, pomegranate and sour cherry to the fore. Mid weight with good texture, the finish is dry and provides balance with a splash or ripe briary berry on the aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Monastir ‘S.XII’ Cluny 2006
DO Navarra $19.95 (391557) 14.5% alcohol
An alluring bouquet of gamy notes, espresso roast and dark berry fruit dominate the nose on this aged, fruit-forward blend—50% Tempranillo, 40% Cab Sauv, 10% Merlot. Ripe black cherry and black plum compote bathe the palate garnished with satin smooth texture, good moderating acidity and a lick of grainy tannin. The lengthy finish layers on sweet vanilla and toasty oak. Best poured 2016 to 2020, if impatient, aerate/decant three hours before serving with well-seasoned, rare-grilled hangar steak. (Vic Harradine)

Ondarre ‘Reserva’ 2008
DOCa Rioja $18.95 (723452) 14.0% alcohol
A tar, licorice and dark cherry bouquet wafts from this aged, mid-weight, nicely textured red blend. A balanced river of red and dark cherry/berry fruit mingle with charred toast and baking spice on the palate, persisting through the mid-length finish alongside a lick of dusty tannin. Aerate/decant two hours pouring with meat and rice-stuffed, roasted peppers. (Vic Harradine)

Palacios Remondo ‘La Montesa’ Crianza 2011
DOCa Rioja $18.95 (674572) 14.0% alcohol
This value-packed, low-yielding Garnacha, Tempranillo, Mazuelo blend is from a revered family winery that the iconic Alvaro Palacios presently presides over. The involved nose offers strawberry, cherry and spice with notes of lilac and rose petals. It bathes the palate with a full-textured, creamy-smooth surge of red cherry/berry fruit garnished with herbs and supple tannin structure. Aerate/decant a couple of hours. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: May 16, 2015

  
Tawse ‘Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir 2011 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $26.95 (130989) 13.0% alcohol
Red cherry, rose petals, toast and spice dominate the aromas in this mid-weight, delicately textured Pinot. There’s a balanced flow of ripe strawberry and red raspberry with notions of red licorice caressing the palate. For now and the short term, there’s tannin on the savory finish and aftertaste, aerate/decant for two hours before serving. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: June 27, 2015

  
Tawse Gamay Noir 2013 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (322545) 12.5% alcohol
Soft aromas of cherry and red berry fruit mingle with notions of cinnamon on the nose. It’s stylish, medium bodied with creamy-smooth mouth feel and a solid line of red cherry and cranberry streaking across the palate adorned with sweet, red licorice. The balanced and beautiful aftertaste surprises with hints of candy apple. This is a beautiful package and drinking extremely well now. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: Classics Catalogue Fall, 2015

  
Tawse ‘Van Bers’ Cabernet Franc 2010 

VQA Creek Shores $49.95 (390914) 13.5% alcohol
Rich, luscious mineral-laced aromas of cedar, spice cake and truffles abound. Black currant preserve and racy red currant flow over the palate garnished with baking spice, roasted herbs and earthy notes. There’s firm structure, persistent purity of fruit and a monumental finish, lengthy and lip smacking with black Bing cherry and notions of graphite. This is full bodied and creamy smooth with age on its side. Good to pour now and on to 2022. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages

  
Henry of Pelham Cabernet Icewine 2013

VQA Short Hills Bench $39.95 200 mL (672402) 9.5% alcohol

Aromas and flavours of spice, strawberry and mixed field berry abound. It’s balanced on a pin with sweet ripe fruit mingling with tangy acidity on the palate and stunning finish. It’s full bodied and fully textured and not the least cloying. Pour on its own as dessert for a decadent, romantic treat for two or alongside strawberries dipped in dark chocolate. (Vic Harradine)

Moris Morellino di Scansano 2012

DOCG Morellino di Scansano $ 19.95 (992560) 13.5% alcohol

Principally Sangiovese with a touch of Merlot and Syrah, this is unoaked and quite intense offering appealing cherry/berry and red licorice aromas with a touch of earth. Dry, medium bodied, the flavours replay aromas—ripe, sweet and full flavoured—supple tannin creates a slightly chalky texture. An approachable red with a pleasing, dry, spicy/savory finish, it’s a good match for antipasto or meat-based pasta with rich tomato sauce. (Susan Desjardins)
This wine is a Vintages Essentials product, always available in select stores

 
Henry of Pelham Icewine Riesling 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $49.95 (430561) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
Here’s a creamy, dreamy dessert wine loaded with flavour and charm. It wafts from the glass with aromas of poached pear and green apple mingling with citrus notes. It’s nicely textured and full flavoured with grilled, sugared grapefruit, tangy blood orange and crisp Granny Smith apple coating the palate interwoven with moderating acidity from racy lemon-lime tang. Good to go now on its own as dessert or poured with fruit flan, quality blue-veined cheese or foie gras. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

Liqueur

Naughty Cow ‘Chocolate Milk for grown ups’
New Zealand, $22.95 (384941) 15% alcohol
This is buttery smooth, drenched in chocolate and udderly delicious. You’ll be over the moon when you serve straight from the bottle and over ice. You can also try one of the many easy, creamy recipes provided. Slip on a Jersey and follow the herd; pick up a couple. (Vic Harradine)

Wine

Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
California $16.95 (392647) 13.8% alcohol
This full-bodied, California Cab is nicely structured, balanced and charming with excellent fruit, flavour and value-packed. Inky-purple-hued in the glass, aromas of dark cherry, balsamic and black licorice announce a delectable, creamy smooth wash of teeth-staining bramble berry, espresso roast and tangy black currant coating the palate, persisting through the extended aftertaste. Pour with burgers, steak or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

  
Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine’ Brut Non-Vintage
VQA Niagara Peninsula $29.95 (217521) 12.0% alcohol
This is made in a similar method to Champagne for ½ the price, with similar hand-harvested grapes—approx. 75% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir and left on lees 24 months; how good is that? Baking brioche, minerality and lemony aromas open up a racy river of delightful small-bead bubbles garnished with lemon curd, wisps of green apple and flecks of mineral notes. It’s quite creamy and very refreshing with a finish of racy lemon acidity and loads of charm. There’s good value here. (Vic Harradine)

  
Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine’ Rosé Brut Non-Vintage
VQA Niagara Peninsula $29.95 (217505) 12.0% alcohol
Here’s a stylish, traditional-method, value-laden gem that’s hitting the shelves just in time for the Holiday Season and, of course, beyond. Mousse froths in the glass adorned by aromas of red berry fruit, baking bread and spice. The fine-bead bubbles deliver a delectable, mouth-watering experience of strawberry and red currant flavour, balanced and charming. The lip-smacking finish layers on good acidity via wisps of blood orange. Keep a few bottles on hand. (Vic Harradine) 

  
Henry of Pelham ‘Special Select Late Harvest’ Vidal 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (395228) 375 mL 10.0% alcohol
Aromas of apricot, honeyed peach and mango are harbingers of a rich and silky river of peel marmalade and apricot preserve interlaced with grilled pineapple and tangy Meyer lemon. This glides over the palate with balance, very good mouth feel and medium-bodied weight while finishing in a blaze of tropical fruit, wisps of spun sugar and lip-smacking tang. (Vic Harradine)

  
Henry of Pelham Baco Noir 2013
VQA Ontario $14.95 (270926) 13.0% alcohol
The price-quality balance here tips well in your favour. Cedar, dark toast and a sprig of herbs on the nose, it coats the palate with spicy, tangy waves of black currant, dark juicy cherry and espresso roast. It’s medium-plus bodied with creamy mouth feel and a monumentally long, bold finish and aftertaste—fruit forward, tang laden, amazingly balanced. (Vic Harradine)

  
Henry of Pelham ‘Sibling Rivalry Red’ 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 (126151) 13.0% alcohol
This Merlot/Cab Franc/Cab Sauv blend offers aromas of red berry fruit, graphite and spice before unleashing waves of racy red currant, red cherry and kirsch liqueur on the palate. This has creamy-smooth mouth feel with good texture and a warm, tang-laden finish of sour cherry and cranberry. Give this a go with pasta in tomato sauce or grilled burgers. (Vic Harradine)

  
Muskoka Lakes Winery Cranberry-Blueberry Wine 2013
Product of Canada $16.95 (609719) 10.5% alcohol
Equal portions of cranberries and local wild blueberries are fermented together to produce a tangy, off-dry wine that offers silky texture and fine berry aromas and flavours. It’s crisp and lively, the sweet fruit persisting on the palate, elusive notes of dried herbs and nut lingering on the finish. Slightly chilled, this wine is a pleasant sipper but also a great match for roast turkey or chicken. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Muskoka Lakes Winery Red Maple 2012
Product of Canada $23.95 (50039) (375ml) 15.0% alcohol
This fortified dessert-wine treat adds maple syrup to the cranberry wine after fermentation. The fruit shines through, with interesting notes of smoke, earth and spice. It’s lush, sweet and fresh in texture; the purity of the cranberry and its zesty acidity shines through. This is a great marriage of the mouth-filling sweetness of maple and crisp tartness of cranberry. Enjoy with a chocolate dessert. (Susan Desjardins)

There is a $1.00 per bottle discount from price shown on the following Cranberry wine until January 4, 2015

  
Muskoka Lakes Winery Cranberry Wine 2013
Product of Canada $16.95 (609701) 9.5% alcohol
Off-dry and fruit forward, this wine is true to its source, with aromas and flavours of lively fresh cranberry. Fermented in stainless to showcase the fruit, it’s light-medium bodied, tangy in texture and zesty through the refreshing finish. With turkey, of course!! (Susan Desjardins)

 
Red House Wine Co. Cabernet-Shiraz 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (219030) 13.0% alcohol
A lifted, funky nose of gunflint, campfire smoke and cherry precedes a fresh, lively river of sour cherry, strawberry and charred toast. It’s medium bodied with good mouth feel, oodles of lip-smacking acidity and a balanced finish. There are wisps of tannin and racy pomegranate on the aftertaste. Give it a go with veal marsala. (Vic Harradine)

  
Silver Bay Cellars Riesling-Gewürztraminer 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 (372771) 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of rosewater, tropical fruit and exotic spice leap from the glass. This is off-dry, full flavoured and fully textured with a gusher of spice-laden lychee fruit, sweet Golden Delicious apple and lemon acidity coating the palate. It finishes with that wonderful yin and yang, sweet and tang, that pairs so well with spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)

Torres ‘Infinite Rojo’ 2012
DO Catalunya, Spain $12.95 (231795) 13.5% alcohol
The striking new red and gold label stands out as do the spice-infused aromas of red cherry and roasted herbs. A tangy wash of cranberry and sour cherry melds with black plum compote and wisps of tannin on the palate. This Tempranillo is mid weight, nicely textured with a lingering finish that layers on a rustic aftertaste of passion fruit and pomegranate. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

Purchase the following wine in person at the winery or in their Ottawa or Toronto retail store, or by the case for daily home, restaurant or office delivery from Château des Charmes.

  
Château des Charmes ‘St David’s Bench Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2013
VQA St. David’s Bench $14.95 (391300) 12.5% alcohol
Straw hued, this charming wine offers lifted aromas of gooseberry, fine herbs, citrus and passion fruit. A pleasant note of sweet fruit caresses the palate, balanced by well-defined acidity and a hint of mineral. Tasty, luscious tropical and citrus fruits rise to the fore inviting another sip. Very well crafted, delightfully fresh and fruity, you’ll enjoy this wine with ginger/lime butternut squash soup and creamy tomato basil quiche. (Susan Desjardins)

Order the following wine by the case for daily home, office or restaurant delivery by phone 905-563-9463 x201 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

  
Redstone Winery Pinot Noir 2012

VQA Twenty Mile Bench $29.95 12.5% alcohol  
The single-vineyard, estate fruit was sustainably farmed on 15-year old vines and aged 16 months in French oak after fermentation. Aromas of exotic spice, cedar, toast and mocha herald a gorgeous river of ripe, red berry fruit—strawberry and hints of passion fruit—garnished with notions of blueberry. It finishes in a blaze with great purity of fruit and a lingering, dry finish that’s dry, mouth-watering, balanced and beautiful. (Vic Harradine)

Order the following two wines by the case or mixed case (free delivery over $100) for Monday to Thursday home, restaurant or office delivery from Tawse. 

  
Tawse ‘Van Bers’ Cabernet Franc 2010 

VQA Creek Shores $49.95 (390914) 13.5% alcohol
Rich, luscious mineral-laced aromas of cedar, spice cake and truffles abound. Black currant preserve and racy red currant flow over the palate garnished with baking spice, roasted herbs and earthy notes. There’s firm structure, persistent purity of fruit and a monumental finish, lengthy and lip smacking with black Bing cherry and notions of graphite. This is full bodied and creamy smooth with age on its side; good to pour now and on to 2022. (Vic Harradine)

  
Tawse Gamay Noir 2013 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (322545) 12.5% alcohol
The soft aromas of cherry and red berry fruit mingle with notions of cinnamon on the nose. It’s stylish, medium bodied with creamy-smooth mouth feel and a solid line of red cherry and cranberry streaking across the palate adorned with sweet, red licorice. The balanced and beautiful aftertaste surprises with hints of candy apple. This is a beautiful package and drinking extremely well now. (Vic Harradine)

New in Consignment Wine

Purchase the following wine by the case for home, office or restaurant delivery from Profile Wine Group.

Trim Wines Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
California $20.95 13.5% alcohol
There’s 15% Merlot and a splash of Malbec in here. Aromas of dark cherry, pipe tobacco and grilled herbs herald a lovely wash of cranberry and pomegranate robed with sweeter mulberry and sprigs of herbs. It’s balanced and medium weight with smooth, round texture and a delightful spice and tang-infused finish. Pour with burgers, steak or beef enchiladas. (Vic Harradine)

New in Restaurants

The following two wines are available only to Ontario restaurants via their license by phone 905-563-9463 x201 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

  
Redstone Winery Cabernet 2012

VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 13.5% alcohol  
Quiet aromas of dark berry fruit and spice waft easily from the glass of this 70% Cab Franc, 30% Cab Sauv red blend. It streaks across the palate with nerve and nerve, racy red cherry and tangy cranberry along with wisps of soft, fine-grained tannin. It’s mid weight with good mouth feel and a dry, crisp finish and aftertaste. This pours well with burgers, beef fajitas, pasta in tomato sauce, creole stew and tomato quesadillas. (Vic Harradine)

  
Redstone Winery Chardonnay 2012

VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 13.0% alcohol   
This was hand-picked, wild-yeast, barrel fermented and aged 12 months in French oak. Ripe apple and pear aromas mingle with citrus and mineral notes on the attractive nose. It bathes the palate with a structured, delectable wash of lemon-lime, grilled pineapple and hints of ripe pit fruit. It’s medium weight, well textured and balanced on a pin. Flavours replay on the finish—crisp, refreshing and lip-smacking good. This is food-friendly and great value. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, Vic and Susan