April 28, 2015 Newsletter

Newsletter highlights include:

• Exceptional value wine   – 8 of 81 wines reviewed meet the strict quality-price guidelines and are found throughout the newsletter priced between $9.95 and $19.95—4 appear after the Main Release; all are identified by the   icon. What strict guidelines?  Click here.
• Finding Waldo – pick up some of this value-laden marriage of Italy (Corvina) and Argentina (Malbec) earning 4 stars at $13.95 and a 
• 5-star Wine – one wine rang the 5-star bell. Bosquet des Papes ‘Cuvée Tradition’ Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012 at $49.95 found under France: Red Wine found in the Main Release.
• Julie Selects – Fowles Stone Dwellers Chardonnay 2013 at $19.95 earning 4½ stars and found under Australia: White Wine and Wirra Wirra ‘Church Block’ Cabernet/Shiraz/Merlot 2012 at $19.95 earning 4½ stars and found under Australia: Red Wine—both found in the Main Release
• Vic Picks – Colio ‘Bricklayer’s Reward - Old Farm’ Cabernet Franc 2012 at $19.95 earning 4½ stars and found under Ontario: Red Wine and Labouré-Gontard ‘Brut’ Crémant de Bourgogne at $19.95 earning 4½ stars and found under Sparkling Wine; both found in the Main Release.

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.

Vintages Release: May 2, 2015

Feature: New Zealand Wine

Saint Clair Pioneer ‘Block 2 Swamp Block’ Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Dillon Point, Marlborough, South Island $28.95 (95679) 13.5% alcohol
This Wine-of-the-month appears very pale in colour but is rich and robust in taste. Citrus, stone and delectable tropical fruit explode on the palate with lovely acidity and a full-bodied large citrus finish. It’s a juicy white, complex and balanced, the more you taste, the more you find—a great Sauvignon Blanc. Try with lightly breaded, pan-seared calamari rings under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Julie Stock)
 

Mahi Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Marlborough, South Island $19.95 (63941) 13.5% alcohol
This wine has the classic characteristics of many Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc—green grass, green pepper and asparagus aromas, almost watery in colour but with big citrus fruit flavours. The balanced acidity has a touch of minerality on the finish making it interesting and complex. It’s a great match with artichokes as an appetizer or as an afternoon sipper. This is a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc for now or any time of year. (Julie Stock)

Te Whare Ra Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Marlborough, South Island $24.95 (411603) 13.0% alcohol
Gooseberry and grassy aromas support the fleshy backbone of stone fruit on the nose. Flavours of ripe peach with spice-infused citrus bathe the palate, smooth as silk. It’s balanced with an aftertaste of sweet, pink-grapefruit pith. It makes a tangy, quaffable partner with any number of foods. How does crispy cod with smoked pineapple and habanera hot sauce sound? (Julie Stock)

Opawa Pinot Gris 2014
Marlborough, South Island $16.95 (408625) 13.0% alcohol
This is an outstanding Pinot Gris that decries the watery, flavour-less stuff that often passes for Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio. The nose offers up aromas of honeysuckle and orchard fruit heralding a palate-bathing river of nicely textured pear, green apple and softer peach and plum. It’s medium weight with a lingering, balanced finish that layers on notions of grapefruit. Sip on its own or with lighter appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

Waimea ‘Classic’ Riesling 2014
Nelson, South Island $18.95 (408666) 12.0% alcohol
Tangerine and honey aromas introduce a slightly off dry Riesling with flavours of ripe stone fruit. It’s light-medium weight with decent mouth feel and a lingering clean finish. There’s a slightly floral note with an under seam of acidity that makes it a delectable sipper or a real winner served with soft cheese. (Julie Stock)

Kaimira Estate ‘Brightwater’ Chardonnay 2012
Nelson, South Island $19.95 (408641) 14.0% alcohol
A pale-straw, golden hue showcases the 12 months in oak enhancing aromas of buttered toast and hazelnuts. It’s full bodied with creamy, dreamy texture and bathes the palate and lengthy finish with a large bowl of tropical fruit. This is great on its own or you can serve alongside roast chicken and root veggies. (Julie Stock)

Elephant Hill Pinot Noir 2013
Central Otago, South Island $22.95 (309583) 14.0% alcohol
The grapes were carefully de-stemmed and fermented in traditional wooden cuvées. Following pressing, the wine spent eleven months maturing in oak barriques, then bottled with minimal fining and intervention. Aromas of charred toast, ripe dark berry fruit and wisps of barnyard open the door for rich and elegant flavours—juicy black Bing cherry, bramble berry and black plum compote. It’s mid weight with very good mouth feel and a long finish and aftertaste with oodles of ripe, red fruit and balancing acidity—an expression of Pinot Noir that makes New Zealand proud. (Julie Stock)

Rocky Point Pinot Noir 2013
Central Otago, South Island $39.95 (411777) 13.5%alcohol
This is a beauty, strutting its stuff with aromas of violets, soft red fruits and smooth as velvet in the mouth. Black currant and black cherry bathe the palate garnished with baking spice replaying on the long finish and aftertaste. There’s deft balance, well-integrated oak, purity of fruit, good structure and drink-me-now charm. Pricey, but if you shop in the forty dollar bin, it’s well worth purchasing a bottle or two. (Julie Stock)

Elephant Hill ‘Red Label’ Syrah 2013
Hawke’s Bay, North Island $22.95 (408633) 13.0% alcohol
This is from the highly respected, red-wine region—especially Bordeaux varietals—of Hawke’s Bay. Spice and berry fruit aromas introduce a racy tangy Syrah that’s peppery and juicy throughout. Piquant spice and cherry/berry fruit on the nose give way to a tangy line of passion fruit, sour cherry and cranberry. This is medium bodied with a racy finish and aftertaste. Serve with pasta in Bolognese sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Feature: German Wine

Klumpp Riesling 2013
Qualitätswein, Baden $19.95 (409748) 12.5% alcohol
This Qualitätswein—an entry level classification of quality wine to which sugar may be added—reaches out with aromas of citrus and green apple. It streaks over the palate with a solid line of acidity expressed in lemon zest and Key lime with a splash of white grapefruit along with a wisp of minerality. This is light on its feet with a crisp, clean and refreshing finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Ruppertsberger Linsenbusch Gewürztraminer Spätlese 2014
Prädikatswein, Pfalz $17.95 (320473) 10.0% alcohol
This medium-sweet ‘Spätlese’—translated ‘late picked’, is akin to the more familiar term ‘late harvest’—offers an aromatic nose with usual suspects identified in the lineup— floral notes, rosewater, piquant spice. The palate’s treated to a sweet and tang, textured wash of mango and honeyed pit fruit adorned with a snap of ginger and Turkish delight. It’s mid-weight with a long finish. Pour alongside butter chicken. (Vic Harradine)

Salwey Pinot Gris 2013
Qualitätswein, Baden $21.95 (409912) 12.0% alcohol
An unusual, interesting nose of hay/straw, slate/mineral and smoky notes interweave with orchard fruit and citrus notes. It coats the palate with an unctuous wash of tropical fruit, Bosc pear and white peach that’s balanced off with a racy line of moderating lemon acidity. It’s medium bodied and quite textured with a crisp, clean aftertaste. Pour with steamed mussels in a curried cream sauce. (Vic Harradine)

The Main Release

Sparkling Wine

Roederer Estate Brut Rosé

Anderson Valley, Estate Btld. $42.95 (479758) 12.0% alcohol

Just the slightest tinge of pink here, but the flavours are lively and racy. The bouquet’s lifted and zesty with generous helpings of citrus and spice. There’s a huge mousse attack on the medium-textured palate delivering zingy flavours of green apple and white grapefruit. The lengthy finish is reminiscent of Granny Smith apple. This will pair very well with seafood and pasta in a creamy white sauce. (Vic Harradine) 

Labouré-Gontard ‘Brut’ Crémant de Bourgogne
AOC Burgundy $19.95 (401018) 12.0% alcohol
This blend of Chardonnay / Pinot Noir is made in the ‘traditional method’ thus mirroring Champagne in grape varieties and how it’s produced; it’s also made from grapes grown just south of Champagne However, it doesn’t mirror Champagne’s price and that makes it interesting. It’s rich, fruity with generous mousse—lots of bubbles— satin-smooth mouth feel and divine aftertaste. A perfect wine to welcome guests, this has the character and depth to match well with appetizers and lighter fare—pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

Colet ‘a priori Brut’ 2011
DO Penedès $21.95 (402164) 11.5% alcohol
A blend of international grape varieties and the indigenous Macabeo, this dishes up an array of aromas with floral notes melding with baking brioche and lemon zest. It’s light on its feet with small-bead bubbles and good flavour on the palate—generous, sweet, ripe fruit flavour nicely balanced with moderating acidity. The mid-length aftertaste offers more of the same. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

Colio ‘Bricklayer’s Reward - Old Farm’ Cabernet Franc 2012
VQA Lake Erie North Shore $19.95 (395277) 14.5% alcohol
Fashioned from old vines in LENS, the warmest VQA region, this limited-edition gem struts its stuff with robust aromas and flavours, great structure and deft balance. There are black currant and spice aromas galore heralding a gusher of flavour—briary berry, black currant and piquant spice garnished with dark chocolate and fine-grained, soft tannin. It’s balanced and beautiful throughout with persistent purity of fruit through the lip-smacking aftertaste. It was aged 16 months in 75% French / 25 % American oak barrels with 30% new. This flirted with 5 stars—kudos to winemaker Lawrence Buhler—pick up an armful; it’s terrific value. (Vic Harradine)

  
Fielding Estate ‘White Conception 2012 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (203737) 13.0% alcohol

There’s terrific value here from the get go with alluring aromas of honeysuckle, fragrant herbs and tropical fruit aromas. It’s medium bodied with silky smooth mouth feel and a balanced and beautiful river of apple, pear and nectarine interweaving with zingy orange zest. The lengthy, mouth-watering finish invites sipping on its own or pairing with roast chicken, pork or seafood. (Vic Harradine) 

  
Fielding ‘Red Conception’ 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (189183) 13.0% alcohol
There are oodles of savoury herbs and mixed spice aromas and flavours on this popular red blend—Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah. It’s mid weight with good texture and a persistent wash of dark berry fruit, red and black cherry adorned with sprigs of roasted herbs and piquant spice. The finish replays tangy flavours with mocha and soft tannin adding interest. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Red Wine

  
Sue-Ann Staff Merlot 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (358416) 13.3% alcohol
This is a lighter-styled Merlot with sharp spice, racy acidity and red fruit galore. Cranberry, sour cherry and notions of passion fruit streak over the palate with racy acidity and piquant spice firmly in tow. These replay on the tangy, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside Swiss steak or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

California: White Wine

Beringer Chardonnay 2012 

Napa Valley $19.95 (084988) 14.5% alcohol 

Fully flavoured and full bodied, it’s balanced and beautiful. Sweet tropical fruit—melon, mango and pineapple—bolstered by exotic spice and white peach, coat the palate and aftertaste. It’s well structured and complex throughout. The finish showcases hints of toasty oak and delicious, lip-smacking tang. Pour with take-out, rotisserie chicken and crisp, roast potatoes. (Vic Harradine) 

McManis Chardonnay 2013
River Junction $19.95 (265983) 13.5% alcohol
Tropical fruit, baking spice and herb aromas herald a nicely textured wash of certified-sustainable, ripe fruit—white peach and apple—garnished with nutty notes and sweet vanilla with the barest wisp of citrus. This is soft and fleshy on the palate and on the ripe, sweet finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Pahlmeyer Chardonnay 2013
Napa Valley $116.95 (147454) 14.9% alcohol
Hand-picked, hand-sorted, barrel-fermented fruit was subsequently aged for approximately 12 months in French oak barrel, 90% new. Aromas of smoke, honeysuckle and nutty notes introduce a full-bodied, generously textured gusher of crème brulée, spiced apple, peach and pear adorned with notions of mango and melon with hints of oak. This will handsomely reward a further one to two years of bottle age. (Vic Harradine)

Talbott Logan ‘Sleepy Hollow Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2013
Santa Lucia Highlands $32.95 (716290) 14.6% alcohol
Intense and robust throughout, aromas of spice and citrus abound. Estate-grown fruit, primarily from +40-year-old vines, were used to produce this gem with its fabulous purity of fruit and lengthy finish. Aromas of buttered toast, ripe pit fruit and apple-pie spice open this plush and expressive Chardonnay. It coats the palate with mid-plus weight, lemon-tinged flavours of honeydew melon, peach crumble and hints of ripe pineapple that persist through the long, long aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

Starmont Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Napa Valley $44.95 (725150) 14.5% alcohol
This smooth and mellow California Cab is 78% Cab Sauv, 11% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot, 2% Malbec, 1% Cab Franc. It opens with red berry, fruit, toasty notes and graphite aromas. It’s creamy smooth with generous texture and a fruit bowl of flavour—dark, juicy bramble berry and red cherry mingle with mocha and soft, fine-grained tannin and excellent moderating acidity. The finish lingers, balanced and beautiful. (Vic Harradine)

California: Rosé Wine

Francis Coppola ‘Sofia’ Rosé 2014
Monterey County $19.95 (284943) 12.5% alcohol
The bottle is thing of beauty… honest, and the wine dishes up a full-flavoured Rosé with alluring aromas of floral notes, red cherry/berry and citrus. It bathes the palate with a mid-weight, well-textured mouthful of ripe, red fruit—cherry, plum and currant with a sweet surge of watermelon on the fleshy, round aftertaste. Give it a go with fresh fruit or an appetizer of lightly curried, carrot soup. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: White Wine

Famiglia Bianchi Chardonnay 2012

San Rafael, Mendoza $14.95 (01461) 13.0% alcohol

Here’s a tidy Chardonnay that won’t disappoint even the most critical. It’s well balanced, fully flavoured, nicely textured and has a price-quality ratio tipped well in your favour. Aromas of ripe apple, sweet vanilla and oodles of spice and citrus abound on the nose. It’s mid-full bodied with a satiny-smooth delivery of tropical fruit, grilled pineapple and lemon curd on the palate and long, crisp and refreshing finish. Pick up a few. (Vic Harradine) 

Argentina: Red Wine

Bodega Lurton ‘Gran Lurton’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Mendoza $24.95 (980334) 15.0% alcohol
There are concentrated flavours of black currant and dark berries galore with a smooth ripeness at the core of the flavour profile. Structured, well-balanced and full bodied, look for delightful layers of fruit flavours with firm noticeable tannin and a luscious, long, cedar and berry finish—aerate/decant for a couple of hours before serving. This will be magnificent with grilled, pork, loin chops. (Julie Stock)

Norton ‘Reserva’ Malbec 2011
Mendoza $17.00 (17061) 14.5 % alcohol
There’s lots of interest in this full-bodied Malbec. Given the vineyards are over 30-years old and the wine aged in oak for 12 months, it’s not surprising there are woodsy aromas and tastes integrating with the dark, ripe, juicy plums on the palate. Fine tannins emerge at the finish of this very satisfying, generous wine. Spicy grilled sausages, sticky ribs or just about anything grilled would be a good match. (Julie Stock)

Trivento ‘Golden Reserve’ Malbec 2012
Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza $19.95 (588731) 14.8% alcohol
A ‘Judges’ Choice’ at the 2014 World Wine Awards of Canada offers standing kudos.
Luscious and dark in the glass, aromas of bitter chocolate, coffee, blackberries follow through on the palate. Strong silky tannins integrate with a little tobacco on the finish This will pair well with hearty meat dishes and stew. (Julie Stock)

Chile: Red Wine

Santa Rita ‘Medalla Real Gran Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2010

Maipo Valley $17.95 (275594) 14.0% alcohol

Toasty notes and pipe tobacco aromas usher in a glorious splash of flavour—red currant and red cherry interlacing with mixed spice and dark coffee—bathing the plate, replaying on the fruity, balanced aftertaste. It’s medium bodied, well paced and well priced—pour alongside lasagna, pasta in tomato sauce or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: White Wine

Fowles Stone Dwellers Chardonnay 2013
Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria $19.95 (336958) 13.5% alcohol
Built in a drink-me-now style and brimming with tangy fruit, this offers a persistent stream of light-medium bodied, delicately textured lemon-lime cordial, crisp Granny Smith apple and racy white grapefruit. It finishes with replays as well as moderating yellow plum and pear. The finish is clean and refreshing making it a prime candidate for all the usual culprits: salmon, a creamy chicken dish or even a gutsy salad. (Julie Stock)

Robert Oatley Signature Series Riesling 2013
Great Southern, Western Australia $17.95 (357426) 12.0% alcohol
There are suggestions of lemon-lime flavours with a little smoky petrol on the nose along with plenty of minerality on the palate reminding me of some Niagara Riesling that taste of wet stone. This is a terroir-affected signature style. A bit of earthiness, but clean and fresh; it’s a no-nonsense Riesling that’s great on its own or poured with fresh grilled shrimp. (Julie Stock)

Australia: Red Wine

Brick Kiln Shiraz 2011
McLaren Vale, South Australia $24.95 (329979) 14.5% alcohol
Rich and robust with hedonistic flavours and texture, this beauty showcases South Australia’s fabulous McLaren Vale region and its crown-jewel varietal—Shiraz. Aromas and flavours of ripe mulberry, black Bing cherry and deep rich black currant are enhanced with smatterings of chocolate, black licorice and earthy notes. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a long, lip-smacking finish. Pair with pork tenderloin and scalloped potatoes, everyone will be happy. (Julie Stock)

Chateau Tanunda Grand Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Barossa Valley, $22.95 (357517) 14.5 % alcohol
Eighteen months spent in French oak barriques integrate woodsy flavours with rich dark fruit. Cassis, black currant and cherry flavours dance on the palate emerging with the soft tannins in a concentrated long finish. This will be perfect with peppercorn steak or burgers. (Julie Stock)

Heartland Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Langhorne Creek, $19.95 (58099) 14.5% alcohol
Winemaker, Ben Glaetzer, deservedly receives accolades from every corner of the wine world and you can find out why for under a value-packed, twenty dollars. Aromas of smoke, cedar and pipe tobacco set up rich, luscious dark fruit—cherry and black currant—with piquant spice, black licorice and roasted herbs washing over the palate. It’s full bodied with good mouth feel and balanced, long finish. (Vic Harradine)

Small Gully ‘Mr. Black’s Little Book’ Shiraz 2013
Barossa Valley, $17.95 (287979) 15.0% alcohol
This is a spicy hot head in a fabulous way. Fragrant and perfumed on the nose, flowers and dark fruit abound. There’s loads of pepper, mint, dark plum and blackberry that tango on the palate. The tannins are super smooth and structured and there’s lively acidity there, too. Don’t be alarmed by the hi-octane, it’s a balanced, fabulous wine and exceptional value. Barbecue thick lamb chops; you’ll be set for a wonderful dinner. (Julie Stock)

Willow Bridge ‘Dragonfly’ Shiraz 2013
Geographe, $18.95 (289249) 13.1 % alcohol
This Shiraz from Geographe—a newly minted (1999) wine region—is value-laden and expansive. Floral, spice and mocha aromas point to a mid-weight, textured stream of black currant and black plum compote with wisps of black pepper. It’s well balanced with oak fully integrated and tannin as soft as silk—the finish is awesome. A ‘Good on ya, mate’ to winemaker, Simon Burnell. Click here to watch and listen to owner Jeff Dewar explain what Willow Bridge and Geographe are all about. (Vic Harradine)

Wirra Wirra ‘Church Block’ Cabernet/Shiraz/Merlot 2012
McLaren Vale, $19.95 (24034) 14.5 % alcohol
There’s a lot going on here with this red—49% Cabernet, 35% Shiraz and 16% Merlot—not a bit of wonder this masterful blend brings on aromas and flavours of dense, velvety, rich fruit—red and black currant and dark cherry with notions of mocha and toasty notes. This ‘Church Block’ offering is significant as its 40th anniversary and as a fabulous vintage. There’s impressive structure with soft tannins. It’s a rich wine that would stand up to just about anything grilled—almost approaching nirvana. This is really yum. (Julie Stock)

France: White Wine

Domaine des Fines Caillottes Pouilly-Fumé 2013
AOC Pouilly-Fumé $25.95 (695908) 12.5% alcohol
Not your garden variety Sauvignon Blanc, this; partially fermented on the skins with wild-yeast then left on its fine lees—aka spent yeast cells—receiving several months of batonage—stirring of the lees. The result of this is an outstanding wine with aromas of minerality, grassy herbs and racy citrus. It’s mid weight with a dreamy, creamy texture and oodles of flavour washing over the palate persisting through the tangy aftertaste—green apple and lemon zest with a touch of juicy, ripe white peach. (Vic Harradine)

Domaine Toussaint Vouvray 2013
AOC Vouvray $15.95 (408260) 11.5% alcohol
This Chenin Blanc is from one of the Loire’s top appellations for sweet Chenin Blanc; this is just slightly off-dry. Dishing up a nose of honeysuckle, ripe pear and hints of quince jelly, it’s medium weight with good texture and excellent balance of fruit and acidity throughout. This gets really interesting on the aftertaste with a broader flavour profile showing yellow plum, nectarine and tangy blood orange. There’s good structure and complexity—it’ll pair well with roast chicken or turkey. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

Château Le Bourdieu 2009
AOC Médoc $21.95 (403691) 13.5% alcohol
An involved nose of tobacco and dark berry fruit waft from this firmly structured Merlot - Cabernet Sauvignon blend with the average age of vines at 25 years. Dark cherry and tangy red cherry mingle with black currant and toasty notes on the palate. Medium bodied and with good mouth feel, it delivers a fruit-filled mouthful of red and dark fruit framed by moderating acidity underpinned by perceptible tannin. Aerate/decant for 2 hours prior to serving. (Vic Harradine)

Château Plaisance ‘Cuvée Alix’ 2006
AOC Premières Côtes de Bordeaux $26.95 (348789) 13.5% alcohol
This is a red blend—70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc—with a funky nose of gamy notes, pipe tobacco and dark cherry/berry fruit. On the palate a wash of juicy black berry and black cherry interweave with black licorice and savoury roasted herbs. It’s mid weight with good structure, very generous texture, moderating acidity for balance and a long finish featuring racy red berry and sour cherry tang. (Vic Harradine)

Château Tour Saint-Vincent 2010
AOC Médoc $23.95 (295816) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of campfire smoke, dark cherry and sprigs of herbs infuse this value-packed, fully flavoured, full-bodied gem. A persistent flow of red berry/cherry and cassis flow over the palate coupled with notions of fennel, baking spice and dry tannin. All in all, it’s balanced on a pin with purity and persistence of fruit, a delectable, lengthy finish and offers very good value. (Vic Harradine)

Christian Moueix Pomerol 2011
AOC Pomerol $33.95 (903013) 14.0% alcohol
This is a sturdy offering with firm structure, a solid fruit backbone and good, moderating acidity for balance. Red and black fruit aromas meld with toasty notes and roasted herbs prior to a wash of currant and dark cherry flavours bathing the palate adorned with spice and notions of mocha. It’s mid-full bodied with good texture and a drying finish. Aerate/decant for 2 hours before pouring with rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Vincent Sauvestre Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2013
AOC Bourgogne $23.95 (66456) 12.5% alcohol
Mixed spice and cherry aromas on the nose precede a balanced and beautiful stream of dried, dark berry fruit, black cherry and sweet ripe mulberry. It’s medium weight with creamy mouth feel and a soft tannin underpinning. The drying finish is garnished with savoury herbs and earthy notes—aerate/decant for a couple of hours. As Pinot Noir from Burgundy goes, this offers quite good value. Pour with grilled duck breasts or leg of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Château de Sérame ‘Réserve du Château’ Corbières 2010
AOC Corbières $16.95 (175216) 13.5% alcohol
Corbières is one of the largest AOCs in France producing almost half the wine of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. This is a dazzling red blend—Syrah, old-vine Carignan, Grenache—that dishes up a world of flavour—structured, balanced and lip-smacking good. There’s a tsunami wave of dark fruit with dark cherry, currant and ripe blackberry coating the palate infusing the lingering aftertaste. It’s medium-plus bodied with terrific mouth feel and lengthy finish. Pick up a case, drink over the next two years. (Vic Harradine)

Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache 2011
AOP Languedoc $17.00 (413237) 13.5% alcohol
Here’s a lighter-styled blend with über-soft texture and gorgeous, ripe fruit. Aromas of toasty notes, mocha and berry fruit waft from this medium-full weight, nicely textured and balanced red. It washes in waves over the palate with red cherry and black currant melding with milk chocolate and black plum compote. It finishes balanced and brimming with spice-infused cherry/berry fruit and good acidity for balance. (Vic Harradine)

Bosquet des Papes ‘Cuvée Tradition’ Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $49.95 (726687) 15.0% alcohol
Produced by 5th generation Boiron family from 50-year-old vines, this was built to last. Aromas of savoury herbs, licorice and earthy notes introduce a rich and juicy gem. It’s full bodied, fully flavoured, filled with character and charm. Black cherry, cassis and ripe juicy mulberry coat the palate cloaked in dark chocolate and baking spice. The lingering aftertaste reflects firm structure, purity of fruit, baking spice, espresso roast and deft balance. Aerate/decant three hours or better still, pop corks 2018 – 2030. (Vic Harradine)

Brotte Bouvencourt Vacqueyras 2013
AOC Vacqueyras $23.95 (413229) 13.5% alcohol
An involved nose of piquant spice, plum, red cherry and gamy notes provide segue to a stream of palate-bathing flavour with black currant and kirsch liqueur interwoven with racy red currant and mixed spice. It’s medium-plus weight with good texture and excellent moderating acidity. The back palate begins picking up tannin accentuated by the drying aftertaste. Aerate/decant for a couple of hours and pour with seasoned, grilled-rare, hangar steak. (Vic Harradine)

Château de Vaudieu Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $59.95 (164871) 15.0% alcohol
Hand-harvested fruit, 74% Grenache, 26% Syrah, from 40- to 70-year-old vines and délestage—a gentle maceration and fermentation technique producing a more fruity, less tannic wine—were used to fashion this ready-to-drink beauty. Cherry, briary berry and floral notes dominate the aromas. It spills over the palate with a creamy smooth, mid-weight, rich and luscious wash of bramble berry and black cherry tinged with baking spice and black licorice. It’s medium-full bodied with lengthy finish that’s fruit-forward, balanced and beautiful. (Vic Harradine)

E. Guigal Crozes-Hermitage 2011
AOC Crozes-Hermitage $28.95 (704908) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of garrigue—local savoury herbs—cedar and tobacco abound. Red cherry, black currant, blueberry and cassis entwine with tapenade and black licorice on the expansive palate. This is medium bodied with decent texture and a mid-length mouth-watering finish. Pour with lasagna or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Xavier Côtes du Rhône 2011
AP Côtes du Rhône $16.95 (297317) 14.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of dark berry fruit and mixed spice herald a stream of racy, tangy flavour—red currant and cranberry—with notions of truffle and fennel. This has firm structure, abundant moderating acidity, medium-full weight and good mouth feel. It finishes dry with perceptible, but acceptable, tannin that’s easily ameliorated with a three-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

France: Rosé Wine

Brotte ‘Les Eglantiers’ Tavel Rosé 2014
AOC Tavel $19.95 (654970) 14.0% alcohol
Tavel is the oldest Rosé region in France and allows only Rosé to be produced there. It’s early days and a tad pricey for Rosé, but this is the best tasted so far this spring—price won’t stop me buying an armful, it’s quite good value. Watermelon and red berry fruit aromas interweave with spice and herbs on the nose. It’s well balanced with ripe red fruit—cherry, plum and strawberry—nicely juxtaposed with red currant and cranberry. This is nicely textured, clean, crisp and refreshing throughout. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: Red Wine

Velenosi Brecciarola ‘Gold’ Rosso Piceno Superiore 2012
DOC $19.95 (412890) 13.5% alcohol
This red blend—70% Montepulciano, 30% Sangiovese—was hand-picked and aged 24 months in new barriques. It’s is an easy-drinking red with dark berry fruit, mixed spice and earthy aromas on the nose. It’s light-mid weight with a fruit-forward wash of black currant and ripe mulberry washing over the palate melding with piquant spice and espresso roast on the long finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with pasta, green peas and prosciutto in cream sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Brezza ‘Cannubi’ Barolo 2010
DOCG Barolo $64.95 (713511) 14.5% alcohol
Intense aromas of lilac and red cherry/berry fruit herald a broad spectrum of delectable flavours with a silky textured river of dried currant, ripe bramble berry and sour cherry interspersed with baking spice, espresso roast and tapenade. It’s medium-plus weight with good construction, deft balance, well-integrated oak, depth and character. The finish and aftertaste are simply delectable and mouth-watering. Drink now to +2030. (Vic Harradine)

Leone de Castris ‘Maiana’ Salice Salentino 2013
DOC Salice Salentino $14.95 (717959) 13.5% alcohol
The price-quality ratio skews well in your favour in this bistro-styled, red blend—90% Negroamaro, 10%, Black Malvasia of Lecce—pick up a few and pour with pizza, pasta in tomato sauce, grilled chorizo, aged hard cheese, burgers or wings. Pipe tobacco, savoury spice and dark cherry/berry fruit aromas set the stage for a mid-weight savoury-infused stream of red and black currant interlaced with notions of truffles and sweet vanilla. This all persists on the finish with a crisp, racy bite on the mouth-watering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Il Molino Di Grace Chinati Classico 2011
DOCG Chianti Classico $18.95 (85209) 14.5% alcohol
This Wine-of-the month Sangiovese was handled with kid gloves during production and aged in seasoned oak barrels leaving it fruity, balanced, smooth and creamy on the palate. There are rich and ripe fruit flavours with black cherry and briary berry mingling with mixed spice and earthy notes. It’s mid weight with generous mouth feel and a lengthy smooth and balanced aftertaste. It pours well with pasta arrabbiata. (Vic Harradine)

Lanciola ‘Le Masse Di Greve’ Chianti Classico 2010
DOCG Chianti Classico $23.95 (395152) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of underbrush, red and dark berry open this firmly structured cellar dweller—pop corks 2017 – 2021. Black currant and sour cherry interlace with dark toast, perceptible tannin and excellent moderating acidity on the palate persisting through the dry, mouth-watering aftertaste. It’s medium bodied with purity of fruit throughout and deserves careful cellaring. (Vic Harradine)

Antiche Terre Venete Ripasso Valpolicella 2013
DOC Valpolicella $17.95 (178459) 13.5% alcohol
This Ripasso offers tangy fruit and racy acidity with a tell-tale bite on the finish —a second fermentation takes place a few months after the first as it’s added to the skins of grapes still soaked in Amarone wine adding complexity and texture. Primarily red berry fruit flavour with a nice dollop of dried black currant, mocha and spice, this washes over the palate mid weight and nicely textured finishing dry and tangy. Pour now with spaghetti in Bolognese sauce or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

Igino Accordini ‘Le Bessole’ Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2007
DOC Amarone Della Valpolicella $49.95 (651570) 15.0% alcohol
This is a lovely drop with lifted aromas, rich, luscious flavour and a dry, lingering, delectable aftertaste—structured, complex and well balanced. Spice and sprigs of herbs infuse dark fruit aromas on the nose announcing a full-bodied, creamy-smooth, fully flavoured river of black cherry and sweet, ripe mulberry mingling with espresso roast and chocolate notes. As Amarone prices go, this is good value. (Vic Harradine)

Portugal: Red Wine

Somontes ‘Reserva’ 2009
DOC Dão $18.95 (408401) 14.0% alcohol
A few million dollars and a grand vision provided rebirth of a derelict property for Casa da Passarella with some 40 hectares of century-old vines still intact. The wine is rich and fruity with soft tannin showcasing balanced flavour, depth and complexity. Spice-infused aromas of dark berry morph into a complex, array of red and dark fruit flavours spilling over the palate with structure and balance. It finishes dry and lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)

Spain: Red Wine

Baron de Magana 2009 

DO Navarra $19.95 (280552) 14.0% alcohol 

Wood smoke, gamy notes and piquant spice rip from the lively nose of this nicely balanced and juicy, tangy red blend. A solid core of dark, briary berry, black plum compote and red currant washes throughout wreathed in sweet vanilla, piquant spice and roasted herbs. It’s medium bodied with good sense of purpose and lively flavours with a juicy aftertaste garnished with earthy, mocha notes. Good to go now with spaghetti Bolognese or prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine) 

Castaño Solanera ‘Viñas Viejas’ 2012

DOC Yecla, Spain $16.95 (276162) 14.5% alcohol

Floral notes, piquant spice and graphite aromas swirl from the nose interlaced with mixed field berry fruit. A tang-laden wash streaks across the palate riding a racy river of sour cherry and red currant that’s persistent through the dry, zesty finish and aftertaste. The dry finish is lip-smacking tangy. Pair with roasted tomato-, rice- and meat-stuffed bell peppers. (Vic Harradine)

Hacienda Lopez de Haro ‘Reserva’ 2005 

DOCa Rioja $18.95 (357335) 13.5% alcohol 

Tobacco, leather and cedar aromas herald a tangy and juicy, nicely textured, medium-weight river of black plum, red cherry and toasty/oaky bits. This has good sense of purpose with plenty of fruit, good moderating acidity and firm tannin on the lengthy aftertaste. With lots of life left, drink now after a two-hour aeration/decant and over the next decade alongside cassoulet or grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Marqués de Cáceres ‘Gran Reserva’ 2005
DOCa Rioja $29.95 (976670) 13.5% alcohol
Ten years old, still fresh and lively, lifted aromas of tobacco, fennel, leather and dark berry fruit abound. On the palate it’s mid-full weight with generous mouth feel and über delicious with well-integrated French oak—spent two years in barrel—and oodles of fruit. Briary berry and black cherry flavours mingle with baking spice and espresso roast persisting through the dry, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Drink now to 2020. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: May 16, 2015

  
Creekside ‘Backyard Block’ Sauvignon Blanc 2013
VQA Creek Shores $17.95 (341792) 12.5% alcohol
A cool fermentation in stainless steel tank set up this crisp, clean and refreshing gem. Aromas of melon and pit fruit interweaving with wisps of citrus and slate/mineral introduce a medium-weight, nicely textured and beautifully balanced wash of ripe apple and Bosc pear mingling with tangy grapefruit and notions of blood orange. The lengthy finish and aftertaste provide more of the same—mouth-watering and delicious. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: July 11, 2015

 
Creekside ‘Laura’s Red’ 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (446668) 13.5% alcohol
Rich, dark aromas of black currant, smoke and earthy notes herald a mid-full weight, generously textured mouthful of rich, luscious mulberry, black Bing cherry and dried currant mingling with baking spice and soft, fine-grained tannin. This value-packed, red blend—45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc, 3% Syrah, 2% Malbec, 1% Petit Verdot—is structured, shows purity of fruit, delectable flavour and is perfectly balanced. It finishes in a lengthy blaze of sweet, ripe fruit and racy tang—delectable. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

• 5 Bonus AirMiles: May 24 – June 20

Barton & Guestier ‘Bordeaux Blanc’ Sauvignon Blanc-Sémillon 2013
AOC Bordeaux, France $12.95 (401612) 11.5% alcohol
Straw-hued and brimming with aromas of vanilla, pit fruit and citrus, this racy white blend dishes up a fruit bowl of flavours with grapefruit, lemon and yellow plum to the fore. It streaks over the palate with nerve and verve ending with a lip-smacking surge of lemon tang and hints of grapefruit pith on the aftertaste. Serve well chilled alongside pan-seared fish or grilled calamari. (Vic Harradine)

• 5 Bonus AirMiles: June 21 – July 18 and August 16 – September 12

Domaine La Gardie Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
IGP Pays d’Oc, France $9.95 (251074) 12.5% alcohol
This hails from the heart of wine country in the south of France and showcases lifted aromas of black Bing cherry, mint and notions of tobacco leaf on the nose along with good balance, structure and a long finish. A wave of spice-laden black and red currant coat the palate adorned with moderating acidity and lip-smacking tang persisting through the aftertaste. Pour now with steak, hearty stew or roast beef. (Vic Harradine)

• 5 Bonus AirMiles: May 24 – June 20 and July 19 – August 15

Domaine La Gardie Merlot 2013
IGP Pays d’Oc, France $9.95 (251082) 13.0% alcohol
Rich ripe aromas of dark berries, peppery spice and hints of roasted herbs open this über smooth, nicely balanced Merlot. Black berry and plum flavours mingle with spice and herbs on the medium-weight palate. It finishes with more of the same plus added hints of blueberry. Pour with burgers, wings or lightly rubbed ribs. (Vic Harradine)

Masi Valpolicella Classico 2013 

DOC Valpolicella Classico, Italy $15.00 (285585) 12.0% alcohol
Red cherry with wisps of mixed spice and floral notes herald a lively river of ripe red cherry and red bramble berry that bathe the palate infusing the long aftertaste. It’s mid weight and a real crowd pleaser. This lively red blend—Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara—sips well on its own, but craves a food buddy—try olive-oiled, al dente pasta with mascarpone and speck. (Vic Harradine)



Masi ‘Tupungato’ Malbec - Corvina 2012 

Valle de Uco, Argentina $13.95 (620880) 13.0% alcohol 

This interesting Malbec / Corvina blend is rich, ripe and fruity on the nose and palate. Aromas of dark berry fruit and sweet tobacco set the table for a luscious mouthful of black currant, black Bing cherry and hints of chocolate and espresso roast. It’s medium bodied and balanced with creamy smooth mouth feel and fruit-forward aftertaste. This punches well above the price—stock up for year-round grilling. (Vic Harradine)

Masi ‘Campofiorin’ 2011 

IGT Rosso del Veronese, Italy $19.95 (155051) 13.0% alcohol 

With Masi on the bottle, you’re assured of well-made, value-for-money wine. This specialty red, a double-fermented blend of indigenous grapes—Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara—wafts from the glass with sexy aromas of dark chocolate, hints of tar, black licorice and incense. A wash of red cherry, dried currant and tang bathe the palate underpinned by soft, ripe tannin. It’s medium-full bodied with smooth texture and a lengthy mouth-watering finish and aftertaste—it pairs well with grilled red meat, aged hard cheese or osso bucco—very good value. (Vic Harradine)

  
Sandbanks ‘Mouton Noir’ Foch - Baco Noir 2013
VQA Ontario $19.95 (164087) 12.5% alcohol
Black plum compote and mulberry on the nose, this coats the palate with a mid-full bodied, satin-smooth wash of cassis, Kirsch liqueur and candied cherry persisting through the lengthy, delectable aftertaste with spice and toasty notes. It’s a Marechal Foch / Baco Noir blend that’s as delicious as it is unique. This is a match made in heaven with grilled pork ribs slathered in spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• Earn 5 Bonus AirMiles per bottle purchased of the following wine April 26 – May 23, 2015

Les Volets Malbec 2013
IGP Haute Vallée de l’Aude, France $10.70 (332973) 13.0% alcohol
This punches well above the price and pairs up well with pasta in tomato sauce, burgers and meat-lovers pizza. Aromas of red cherry, floral notes and mixed spice show the way. There’s a mid-weight, nicely textured, balanced and beautiful stream of lively red cherry, cassis and juicy dark berry fruit garnished with excellent acidity bathing the palate preceding a lengthy, dry, mouth-watering finish. (Vic Harradine)

• Earn 5 Bonus AirMiles per bottle purchased of the following wine April 26 – May 23, 2015

Ascheri Barbera d’Alba 2012
DOC Barbera d’Alba, Italy $15.00 (219790) 14.0% alcohol
There’s a world of value in this crowd-pleasing red. It’s versatile at the table and on the deck or patio; pour with burgers, pizza, wings, pasta in tomato sauce or roast chicken. Smoky notes, roasted herbs and berry fruit aromas open this generously textured mouthful of red cherry and ripe mulberry bathing the palate along with adornments of mixed spice, balance and charm. It finishes mouth-watering and delicious. What’s not to like? (Vic Harradine)

• Receive $2.00 off per bottle of the regular price shown below on this Anselmi April 26 – May 23, 2015

Anselmi ‘San Vincenzo’ 2013 

IGT Veneto, Italy $16.95 (948158) 12.5% alcohol 

Floral notes, honeyed apple and pear introduce a creamy smooth wash of sweet, ripe fruit—apple, peach and honeydew melon—interlaced with lemon citrus and grilled pineapple. It’s mid weight with generous mouth feel and a long, delicious finish and aftertaste. Perfect sipped on its own, it’s versatile at the table, pairing with sea food, roast chicken or pork. There’s good value here and great value with the discount; stock up. (Vic Harradine)  

New in Ontario Wineries

• Order the following Chardonnay by the case for delivery to home, office or licensee from Closson Chase. 

  
Closson Chase ‘Closson Chase Vineyards’ Chardonnay 2013
VQA Prince Edward County $27.95 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)

• Order the following wines by the case for delivery to home, office or licensee from Grange of Prince Edward.

  
Grange of Prince Edward County ‘Northfield’ Cabernet Franc 2010
VQA Prince Edward County $35.00 14.0% alcohol
This is a stellar Cab Franc showcasing the fabulous 2010 vintage, decade-old vines and judicious use of seasoned French oak barriques. Toasted herbs, tobacco and dark berry fruit aromas herald a rich, luscious, beautifully balanced river of black currant and dark black cherry coating the palate, infusing the lengthy aftertaste. It’s nicely structured with depth, persistent purity of fruit and charm—each sip is as good or better than the previous. (Vic Harradine)

  
Grange of Prince Edward County ‘Estate’ Gamay 2012
VQA Prince Edward County $20.95 12.8% alcohol
Lively spice and cherry aromas interlace with hints of cedar and earthy notes on the nose. It spills over the palate with a balanced river of spice-infused red raspberry, currant and wisps of red cherry. It’s medium bodied with good mouth feel and a racy tangy surge of sour cherry on the finish and aftertaste—clean, crisp and lip-smacking good. Pour with lasagna, pizza or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

  
Grange of Prince Edward County ‘Select’ Pinot Noir 2012
VQA Prince Edward County $21.95 12.7% alcohol
Baking spice and red berry fruit aromas provide segue for a delightful, value-laden imbibing experience—kudos to winemaker, Caroline Granger. This Pinot Noir is mid weight and balanced on a pin with well-integrated oak and moderating acidity framing delectable red cherry and red berry fruit supported by soft, fine-grained tannin. Made for food, it’s incredibly versatile—duck, veal, chicken and turkey love this wine… and so will you. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, Vic and Julie