June 22, 2015 Newsletter

Newsletter highlights include:

• Exceptional value wine   – 12 of 88 wines, four spirits and liqueurs reviewed meet the strict quality-price guidelines and are found throughout including after the Main Release priced between $12.95 and $17.95—all are identified by the   icon. What strict guidelines?  Click here.
• Finding Waldo – a white wine on which the multi-talented winemaker drew a Curlew—a Sandpiper-like bird—on the label. 4 stars and exceptional value @ $13.95
• 5-star Wine – 2 wines rang the 5-star bell: The Prisoner 2013, a Napa Valley red blend found under California: Red Wine @ $49.95 and Tawse Winery Chardonnay Icewine 2013 200 mL @ $34.95 under New in Ontario Wineries.
• Vic Picks – Villa Maria ‘Cellar Selection’ Sauvignon Blanc 2014 earning 4½ stars @ $19.95 found under New Zealand: White Wine and Ruffino ‘Modus’ 2011 with 4½ stars @ $29.95 found under Italy: Red Wine. 

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.

Wave the flag on Canada Day! – Allow yourself a celebration of our wonderful country—on balance, amongst the best in which to live; the more you travel, the more apparent it becomes—and the incredible strides made in the wine industry—on balance, now approaching the best. There are 34 wines and two spirits from Canada tasted, reviewed below. You’ll find them within the Vintages release and under ‘New in LCBO’ and, ‘New in Ontario Wineries’ where you can pick up wine from the winery or purchase online having it delivered to your home, office or restaurant. You can also access the previous newsletter(s) on the winecurrent site and access many more Canadian wines, including sparkling, still available in LCBO stores and Ontario wineries.

Vintages Release: June 27, 2015

Spirits

• Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers are Niagara-based, family-owned and operated craft distillers using local products. They’ve won and Gold, Double Gold and Platinum at International and World Spirits competitions. How cool would it be serving one or both of these on Canada Day!

Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers ‘Unfiltered-Gin 22’ Gin
Product of Canada $39.95 (358556) 375mL 40.0% alcohol
Dillon’s distill Ontario grapes adding 22 botanicals with many sourced locally—all gins use botanicals, very few this many. The result is a delicious, layered and smooth surge of aromas and flavour with juniper, citrus and licorice to the fore with floral notes and piquant spice on the finish—there’s a boatload of character and interest in this stylish rendition. Here’s a link to Dillon’s website where you’ll find a variety of drink recipes. (Vic Harradine)

  
Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers ‘The White Rye’ Grain Spirit
Product of Canada $37.95 (337600) 375mL 40.0% alcohol
Produced from 100% Ontario rye, this is copper-pot distilled, but isn’t technically a whiskey, as it’s not aged in wood. It’s closer to ‘white lightening’ or a preview of how whisky tastes before aged in barrel. If you’re wondering, it’s spicy wild like a spirit on steroids. However, here’s a link to Dillon’s website where you’ll find a variety of drink recipes that’ll harness that energy into a unique, delightful sipper. (Vic Harradine)

Liqueur (stored in a cool, dry area and tightly capped, it will last indefinitely)

• 1$ from the sale of every 750 mL and 1.14 mL bottle will be donated to the Canadian AIDS Society.

Luxardo Amaretto di Saschira 

Product of Italy $23.95 (215988) 28.0% alcohol

This is premium, almond liqueur with premium, natural ingredients—sip neat or on ice, mix in tea, coffee or orange juice, or in sparkling wine or mixed drinks. Marzipan, vanilla and orange marmalade on the nose, this is flavourful and fully textured, but far from heavy or cloying. It delivers a balanced, persistent stream of sweet marzipan with a dried almond bite—a delightful combination persisting throughout. (Vic Harradine)

• Earn 13 bonus Air Miles, June 21 to July 18, 2015, from the purchase of every 750mL bottle. A 1$ donation will be made to the Canadian AIDS Society – August 16 to September 12, 2015 - from the sale of every 750 mL and 1.14 mL bottle.

Luxardo Sambuca dei Cesari 

Product of Italy $20.95 (40196) 38.0% alcohol
This ‘white’ Sambuca is often garnished with three coffee beans in the glass—‘con la mosca’, meaning ‘with the fly’. They’re said to represent health, happiness and prosperity. Sambuca can be added to coffee rather than sugar, drunk after coffee, ‘ammazzacaffè’, sipped neat, on the rocks or with water. It’s sweet and anise-flavoured, tasting much like liquid black licorice. For a sensational pyrotechnic end to a meal, dim the lights, serve neat with three floating coffee beans then set alight for a short period warming up the Sambuca. Be certain the glass has cooled before sipping. (Vic Harradine)

Fortified Wine: Sherry

Williams & Humbert ‘Walnut Brown - Rare Old Brown’ Oloroso

Jerez, Spain $13.95 (437467) 19.5% alcohol 

What a treat - what a bargain. Dark amber with tinges of green on the edges; the aromas are divine with dark raisin, caramel and fig predominant. Warm and sweet on the palate, look for the aromas to follow through to flavours plus some lovely spice and nutty notes. The long sweet finish of this dessert wine cries out for spiced nut cake or ginger snaps. (Vic Harradine)

Sparking Wine

Sala Vivé ‘Brut’ Non - Vintage
México $18.95 (411769) 11.0% alcohol
This was produced in Mexico by the famous Spanish/Catalonian Cava house of Freixenet—pronounced fresh-eh-net, in Catalan. It’s a light-on-its-feet sparkler made in Methode Traditionelle—the 2nd fermentation occurred in the bottle you’ll purchase, capturing all those lovely bubbles. There’s ripe orchard fruit on the palate with a clean, crisp line of acidity. This’ll match well with appetizers—seafood or white meat. (Vic Harradine)

Tre Secoli ‘Brachetto D’Acqui’ 2012
DOCG Piedmont $17.95 (415273) 6% alcohol
And now for something completely different, this delivers a lovely juxtaposition of sweet candied fruit flavour—cherry cordial and candy floss—and a tangy bite of acidity—red currant and passion fruit. It’s a delectable, sweet and tang tasting experience that starts and ends semi-sweet, but not cloying. The flavours shine as a wine to greet guests, an aperitif or to accompany fresh, sugared red berry fruit under a splash of balsamic vinegar. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

  
13th Street ‘White Palette’ 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (207340) 12.0% alcohol
This is a delightful white blend—53% Riesling, 18% Chardonnay, 17% Gewürztraminer, 9% Sauvignon Blanc, 3% Pinot Gris—that dishes up an alluring nose of baked apple and grilled pineapple along with good value. There’s a medium bodied and generously textured gusher of off-dry apple, pear and tropical fruit bathing the palate, nicely balanced by lemon pie filling. A wonderful sipper—serve well-chilled—it also pours well with spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)

  
Calamus ‘Steely – Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (210062) 12.5% alcohol
This offers very good value. Stylish aromas of green apple and ripe pear mingle with tropical fruit on the nose of this mid-weight, value-packed Chardonnay. It bathes the plate with good mouth feel and clean crisp flavour—flinty/mineral notes interweave with lemon zest and wisps of white grapefruit. Flavours persist and replay on the lingering, mouth-watering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

   
Featherstone Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2013

VQA Twenty Mile Bench $17.95 (89011) 13.0% alcohol 

Big kudos to co-owner and winemaker, Dave Johnson. This is alluring on the nose—soft floral notes and tropical fruit—and absolutely delicious on the palate and mouth-watering finish. With or without food, this is a go to Sauvignon Blanc for this summer and beyond; it’s loaded with flavour, tang and charm. Lemony citrus, pineapple and melon bathe the palate, replaying on the crisp refreshing aftertaste. It’s balanced, complex and, dare I say… yummy. (Vic Harradine)

  
Malivoire ‘Musqué Spritz’ 2014
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (189670) 9.0% alcohol
Lightly hued, almost clear in the glass, you’ll be taken aback and taken in by the gorgeous perfumed aromas of exotic, piquant spice, rose petals and Muscat-like aromas on the nose. This light-on-its-feet, slightly spritzy off-dry gem delivers a focused stream of ginger-infused spice, sweet, ripe tropical fruit and notions of tangy Green Gage plum and citrus notes. It finishes balanced and the perfect dance partner for baked Stilton tart. (Vic Harradine)

  
Sue-Ann Staff ‘Fancy Farm Girl - Frivolous’ White 2012

VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (394072) 11.0% alcohol

Floral notes combine enticingly with citrus and a basket of ripe Niagara stone fruit on the nose of this proprietary blend. It’s off-dry and nicely balanced with a touch of mineral combining with fresh acidity to lift the tasty fruit flavours. It’s easy-going and appealing with clean, silky texture. It’s a down-to-earth wine to be enjoyed well-chilled. (Susan Desjardins)

Okanagan Valley: White Wine

  
Sperling Gewürztraminer 2013
VQA Okanagan Valley $21.95 (242958) 12.4% alcohol
East meets West, Sally meets Harry—this has all the attributes of stylish Grand Cru Alsace Gewürzt with the lively personality of Ann Sperling wine. Perfumed aromas swirl energetically from the glass—rosewater, exotic spice and floral notes. A delectable, off-dry surge of peach compote, apple pie and spicy ginger wash over the palate with unctuous texture and mouth feel. Good structure and persistent purity of fruit mark this special; it’s near perfect and eminently enjoyable. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Red Wine

  
13th Street Cabernet/Merlot 2012

VQA Creek Shores $19.95 (56598) 13.5% alcohol

Dense and inky, this red blend offers lovely aromas of ripe dark fruit, earthy notes and hints of lavender and dried herbs. Dry, medium-full bodied, it’s polished tannin and tangy texture harmonize with dark berry and plum. There’s depth and intensity here, spice and smoky toast complementing the fruit on the extended finish. Enjoy with grilled red meats. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Vieni ‘Foch Vintage Reserve’ 2012
VQA Ontario $19.95 (416214) 14.0% alcohol
You may have to discard your prejudice re hybrid grapes when you try this Marechal Foch. Black plum, black currant and dark cherry aromas herald a rich, luscious stream of densely concentrated, almost sappy, dark fruit coating the palate with gusto—boysenberry jam, black Bing cherry and black plum compote interwoven with baking spice, underpinned by fine-grained tannin. There’s a lick of excellent moderating acidity on the finish and aftertaste. Go big; pair with rare-grilled, seasoning-rubbed venison with Portobello mushroom or rare-grilled, seasoned beef tenderloin. (Vic Harradine)

  
Queylus ‘Reserve du Domaine’ Merlot/Cabernet Franc 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $39.95 (406462) 13.0% alcohol
Piquant spice and red cherry/berry aromas precede a medium-bodied, nicely textured flow of red cherry and ripe mulberry coating the palate along with a solid line of acidity and still-resolving tannic texture. The fruit replays on the lengthy finish along with notes of green herbs. Aerate/decant for three hours serving with rare-grilled, seasoned flank steak. (Vic Harradine)

  
Southbrook Vineyards ‘triomphe’ Cabernet Franc 2013

VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (275958) 12.6% alcohol

Aromas of bright red berry fruit, cedar and sprigs of herbs announce a balanced and beautiful wash of lively, ripe red cherry/berry flavour bathing the palate, mid weight, delicately textured with persistent purity of fruit throughout. It finishes in a fanfare of red fruit flavour garnished with savoury-infused, roasted herbs and good moderating acidity. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Rosé Wine

   
Thirty Bench ‘Small Lot’ Rosé 2014

VQA Beamsville Bench $22.20 (414227) 12.7% alcohol 

Aromas of passion fruit, sweet floral notes and hints of cherry cordial provide segue to a gorgeous mouthful of tangy charm with red raspberry and Montmorency cherry to the fore. It’s medium weight with good nerve and verve persisting through the long, lip-smacking aftertaste where wisps of ripe red plum make a surprise, welcomed appearance. Pour this unique blend—40% Pinot Meunier, 39% Cab France, 21% Pinot Noir—well chilled with mesclun salad topped with crumbled chèvre. (Vic Harradine)

Okanagan Valley: Red Wine

  
Culmina Hypothesis 2012

VQA Okanagan Valley $39.95 (414243) 14.0% alcohol

Deep, rich aromas of briary berry and tobacco interplay with black plum and smoky/toasty bits on the nose. It coats the palate with a persistent stream of ripe fruit and tang—red currant with passion fruit juxtaposed with briary berry and juicy black cherry. Full bodied with good mouth feel, this dishes up piquant, peppery spice on the aftertaste and a lick of still-resolving tannin. Pour now after a three-hour aeration/decant or pop corks 2017 – 2021. (Vic Harradine)

California: White Wine

La Crema Chardonnay 2013
Monterey $26.95 (158683) 13.0% alcohol
A perennial favourite, this offers delicate aromas—baking spice, orchard fruit and sandalwood. It’s medium-full bodied with very good mouth feel and a tapestry of interwoven flavours—piquant spice, apple pie filling and a salad bowl of tropical fruit plus some toasty oak. It’s balanced with style and grace, a bit more restrained than previous vintages, but, thankfully, still quite delicious. (Vic Harradine)

Liberty School Chardonnay 2013

Central Coast $18.95 (960120) 13.5% alcohol

Heady aromas of toasted almond, smoke and piquant spice swirl from this mid-plus bodied, fully flavoured Chardonnay. Broad strokes of tropical fruit and white peach wash over the palate balanced nicely with grilled pineapple and lemon pie filling. It finishes lengthy and fruit-laden with balance and charm. (Vic Harradine)

Washington State: White Wine

Castle Rock Chardonnay 2013
Columbia Valley $19.95 (414193) 13.5% alcohol
Gentle aromas of orchard fruit and baking spice introduce a balanced and tasty flow of green apple and lemon yoghurt garnished with buttered toast and notions of oaky bits. It’s mid-full weight with nice texture and a clean, crisp and refreshing finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside breaded, pan-seared veal cutlets and buttered egg noodles. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

J. Lohr ‘Los Osos’ Merlot 2013
Paso Robles $20.95 (27516) 13.5% alcohol
From a stellar vintage, this was whole-berry fermented with full malolactic conversion, aged 12 months in American oak barrel, 22% new. This Merlot has a 14% splash of Malbec adding to the fruit and long finish. Aromas of peppery notes, espresso roast and red berry fruit open this medium-full bodied, fully textured gem. A juicy, balanced wave of red currant, pie cherry and ripe sweet mulberry meld on the palate and replay on the dry, lip-smacking aftertaste. Pair with slow-roast pork and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County $106.95 (943472) 13.9% alcohol
Roasted herbs, cola and spice-laden black currant set the table for a firm flow of boysenberry jam and dark coffee interweaving with racy red currant and tangy pomegranate on a full-bodied, fully textured frame. It’s underpinned by a solid whack of tannin; aerate/decant for three hours or pull corks after 2017. (Vic Harradine)

The Prisoner 2013
Napa Valley $49.95 (104299) 15.2% alcohol
Dense, concentrated, structured and balanced, this robust and rarin’ to go red blend—mostly Zin, Cab Sauv and Petit Sirah—coats the palate with swirling flavours of ripe mulberry and juicy black currant adorned with spice and espresso roast. It showcases purity of fruit and a take-no-prisoner personality. It’s full bodied with generous mouth feel and a lusty, lengthy aftertaste of full-bore, dark cherry/berry fruit, cassis, black licorice and freshly cracked black pepper. (Vic Harradine)

Washington State: Red Wine

Columbia Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Columbia Valley $17.95 (210260) 13.5% alcohol
This cellar dweller is 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Syrah, 3% Malbec and 3% ‘other’. Black cherry, spicy dark berry fruit and pipe tobacco aromas introduce a balanced, concentrated river of black currant and mulberry interweaving with baking spice and espresso roast. It’s medium-plus bodied with good mouth feel and a firm underpinning of tannin. Give this a couple of more years in bottle, opening 2017. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: White Wine

Colomé Torrontés 2013
Calchaqui Valley, Salta, $13.95 (357913) 13.5% alcohol
This is so aromatic, like thrusting your nose in a bouquet of white roses. It’s fresh and clean tasting with grapefruit pith, oranges and tart lemon-lime flavours; all really good things. That great squirt of acidity makes it a food friendly wine or a great sipper on its own—light-bodied and crisp with a short, fruity aftertaste. It’s great for the patio, either on its own or with salads for a light lunch. (Julie Stock)

Argentina: Red Wine

Finca Sophenia ‘Reserve’ Malbec 2013
Tupungato, Mendoza, $17.95 (66837) 15%alcohol
Inky in colour, this delicious Malbec exhibits a spicy, peppery intensity while luscious black ripe fruits dance on the palate. It’s full bodied and smooth with a pinch of chocolate on the minty aftertaste. Complex and luscious, this is one powerful red to accompany the best of roasts. (Julie Stock)

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)

Trapiche ‘Fincas Las Palmas’ Malbec 2011 

Uco Valley, Mendoza $16.95 (186668) 15.0% alcohol 

This is rich and balanced with great purity of fruit. Aromas of black currant, baking spice and toasty bits mingling with vanilla—18 months in French oak barrels—spring from the glass. It’s stylish and charming with black berry fruit and dark cherry dominating throughout. It’s medium-full weight with good texture and a solid underpinning of fine-grained tannin. (Vic Harradine)

Chile: White Wine

Casas Del Bosque ‘Reserva’ Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Casablanca Valley $13.95 (974717) 13.5% alcohol
There’s lemon and tangerine on the nose with a touch of minerality. It’s a delicious, clean tasting, light-bodied white with pinch, tart and puckering flavours making it a great accompaniment to chicken, fish, pasta salad or to sip on its own. Enjoy the flinty stone aftertaste that’s lip smacking, bringing you back for another mouthful. This is versatile; keep around for those unexpected (or expected) guests. (Julie Stock)

Chile: Red Wine

Chilcas Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Colchagua Valley, $17.95 (309757) 14% alcohol
Red fruits burst forth on the palate leaving flashes of olives, sweet spice and a little forest floor with a smoky aftertaste. The rounded body and great texture leaves lots of room to explore dark red berry flavours and make it a great barbecue wine to pair with burgers and steak. (Julie Stock)

Montes Alpha Carmenère 2012
Colchagua Valley $19.95 (143230) 14.5% alcohol
Here’s a great and powerful Carmenère to add to your summer shopping list for those nights when mixed grill is on the menu. This delivers an intense, dark purple colour in the glass with aromas of ripe plums and blueberries carrying through the palate. It’s full bodied and smooth with medium tannin and a lingering black fruit lusciousness. There are dusty, earth tones on the subtly fruity finish. (Julie Stock)

Australia: Red Wine

Salomon Estate ‘Fleurieu Peninsula’ Syrah/Viognier 2011
South Australia $27.95 (414060) 14.5% alcohol
Piquant spice, black plum and dark berry fruit aromas set the table for a smorgasbord of rich fruit flavours with bramble berry pie, dried currant and grilled herbs leading the way. It’s mid-full bodied with a lengthy balanced finish adorned with dark berry fruit, mocha and excellent lip-smacking acidity. Give this a go with grilled lamb chops. (Vic Harradine)

Two Hands ‘Lily’s Garden’ Shiraz 2012

McLaren Vale, South Australia $54.95 (683086) 16.5% alcohol

This is a rich stylish red with structure and complexity. In spite of the seriously high alcohol it avoids any excesses on the palate or finish. Aromas of dark cherry, spice and black currant replay on the palate and lingering aftertaste. It’s mid-full weight with wonderful texture and great purity of fruit throughout. Pour with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Zonte’s Footstep ‘Baron Von Nemesis - Single Site’ Shiraz 2012
Barossa Valley, South Australia $17.95 (212936) 14.5% alcohol
Ripe black fruit, cedar and baking spice aromas spill from this densely concentrated Barossa Shiraz. It coats the palate with a raging river of juicy Bing cherry, racy black raspberry and peppery herbs underpinned by still resolving tannin and framed by a solid lick of excellent, mouth-watering acidity. If you uncork this in the next 18 months, you’ll want to aerate/decant for a couple of hours. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: White Wine

Oyster Bay Pinot Grigio 2014
Hawke’s Bay, North Island $18.95 (326090) 13.0% alcohol
Subdued aromas of floral notes and orchard fruit give way to a tang-laced streak of lemon zest, racy lime and hints of passion fruit. It’s light-medium bodied with a mid-length finish and aftertaste. Pours well on its own and pairs exceptionally well with grilled calamari rings under a squirt of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

Villa Maria ‘Cellar Selection’ Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Marlborough, South Island $19.95 (974527) 13.0% alcohol
The founder of Villa Maria, George Fistonich, received New Zealand’s first knighthood for years of service to their wine industry. Fruit from this wine was sourced from the Awatere and Wairau valleys. Aromas leap from the glass with a lifted nose of gooseberry, citrus and grassy notes. A focused line of searing acidity is ameliorated and balanced by lemon pie filling, gooseberry crumble and white nectarine on the palate, persisting through the lengthy, crisp, refreshing finish. Very good value. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: Red Wine

Sileni ‘The Triangle’ Merlot 2013
Hawke’s Bay, North Island $19.95 (586081) 14.0% alcohol
Boysenberry, piquant spice and roasted herb aromas provide segue to a stylish red that’s nicely structured and showcases purity of fruit with oodles of charm. It’s smooth and mellow on the palate with flavours of bramble berry pie and dark cherry garnished with baking spice, charred toast bathing the palate in waves. Mid weight and creamy textured, the finish is fruity, dry, lengthy and balanced on a pin. Pour alongside roast tenderloin of beef. (Vic Harradine)

South Australia: White Wine

Ken Forrester ‘Old Vine Reserve’ Chenin Blanc 2014
WO Stellenbosch $17.95 (231282) 13.5% alcohol
Ken’s known as Mr. Chenin in South Africa and never tires of championing this grape. This was fashioned from old vines averaging 37 years including some ancient bush vines, dry farmed and hand harvested. It was fermented and aged in tank and French oak, 20% new, and left on the lees developing flavour, finish and texture. Honeysuckle, pit fruit and incense aromas open the door for a medium bodied, generously textured river of spice-infused citrus, minerality and grapefruit pith. It finishes lengthy, crisp and clean. This will also reward four more years in bottle. (Vic Harradine)

South Africa: Red Wine

Boekenhoutskloof ‘The Chocolate Block’ 2012

WO Western Cape $39.95 (129353) 14.0% alcohol

Mainly Syrah, this blend also includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Cinsault and Viognier. Inky and opaque, this is a rich, powerful wine offering concentrated aromas of plum, black berry, spiced rose, exotic spice and a whiff of its namesake, chocolate. Dry, full bodied, it's dense and intense, the ripe dark fruit framed by ripe yet perceptible tannins and lifted by fresh acidity that comes through in the tang of raspberries. Notes of pepper and dark chocolate mingle on the persistent dry finish. A well-crafted wine that offers depth, complexity and longevity. (Susan Desjardins)

France: White Wine

Bestheim ‘Classic’ Gewürztraminer 2013
AOC Alsace $18.95 (656801) 13.0% alcohol
Produced by one of Alsace’s ubiquitous wine cooperatives, Bestheim was formed in 1765. The lifted nose is all about rosewater and peppery spice before bathing the palate with a delicate wash of ripe apricot, exotic spice and notions of lime-soaked guava fruit. The finish is fruit-forward and garnished with piquant spice. Pour alongside spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)

France: White Wine

Château Saint Genes 2013
AOC Bordeaux $15.95 (418889) 12.0% alcohol
This Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc blend displays involved aromas of floral, baking spice and honeyed notes adorning green apple and ripe pear on the nose. There’s a solid line of mouth-watering acidity on the palate with lemon zest, Key lime and white grapefruit to the fore. The finish is mid-length showcasing citrus pith and notions of savoury herbs. (Vic Harradine)

Domaine du Tremblay ‘Vin Noble’ Quincy 2013
AOC Quincy $19.95 (375659) 12.5% alcohol
Quincy allows only plantings of Sauvignon grapes—both Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Gris - a clonal mutation of Sauvignon Blanc. Like most wine from Quincy, this the perfect partner to oysters, ceviche, sashimi. Herbal, grassy aromas precede a well-textured wash—aged on fine lees with batonage—of racy lemon curd, lime zest and white grapefruit and minerality. Flavours replay on the crisp, mouth-watering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Marrenon ‘Doria’ Luberon 2012
AOC Luberon $17.95 (413492) 12.5% alcohol
Primarily a blend of Vermentino/Grenache Blanc, the nose of sandalwood and piquant spice melds with tropical fruit and minerality aromas. A light-medium weight flow of white peach, tangy citrus and nectarine bathe the palate seamlessly interlacing with tangy lemon and grapefruit on the crisp, clean, refreshing finish. Pour alongside a plate piled high with breaded, skillet-seared calamari rings under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

Château Hourtin-Ducasse 2010
AOC Haut-Médoc $31.95 (418194) 13.0% alcohol
This firmly structured red blend—Cabernet Sauvignon 56%, Merlot 31%, Cabernet Franc 11%, Petit Verdot 2%—dishes up aromas of baking spice and red berry fruit. It’s medium-full bodied and fully textured showcasing a tannin-shrouded tsunami of dense black currant and dark cherry flavours framed by excellent acidity. All the components are there in spades; this will handsomely reward careful cellaring. Pop corks 2019-2025. (Vic Harradine)

Château Pey de Pont 2010
AOC Médoc $21.95 (416719) 14.5% alcohol
Inky-dark/opaque, this brawny, red blend—50% Merlot, 45% Cab Sauv, 5% Cab Franc—wafts from the glass with aromas of red cherry, earthy notes and billows of smoke. Full bodied, fully textured, it dishes up a complex, fruit-forward, tang-laden gusher of black currant along with spice-infused red currant and racy passion fruit flavour on the palate replaying on the mouth-watering finish. You can pop corks now and aerate a couple of hours or open 2017. (Vic Harradine)

Louis Jadot ‘Château des Jacques’ Morgon 2012
AOC Morgon $24.95 (653584) 13.0% alcohol
Pricey for Cru Beaujolais, but the price-value proposition certainly leans well in your favour, it’s worth taking a flutter on this. Lilac and spice aromas mingle with cherry/berry on the nose. Smooth and mellow throughout, ripe fruit—red and black cherry—and baking spice interwoven with excellent tang and flinty notes persist through the dry, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Good to go now, pouring well with a mixed deli board or charcuterie. (Vic Harradine)

Château Fardel-Laurens ‘Cuvée Ardoise’ 2012
AOC Faugères $16.95 (415687) 13.5% alcohol
This Languedoc-Roussillon red blend—40% Syrah, 40% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre—opens with aromas of dark berry fruit, gamy notes and black licorice. Primary fruit flavour—partial carbonic maceration—mingles with racy cranberry and red currant on the palate replaying on the tang-laden aftertaste. Pour with pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Domaine Le Clos des Cazaux ‘La Tour Sarrazine’ Gigondas 2012

AOC Gigondas $28.95 (279562) 14.6% alcohol

Grenache and Grenache-dominant blends often deliver hi-alcohol; low tannin, colour and acidity along with lots of spice. Dark cherry and sandalwood aromas on the nose, this rolls over the palate with black currant, ripe mulberry and piquant, savory spice and herbs. It’s medium bodied and nicely textured with a persistent finish and fine-grained tannin underpinning—delicious. Aerate/decant for an hour serving with stuffed, roast pork tenderloin. (Vic Harradine)

Brumont Tour Bouscassé 2009
AOP Madiran $17.95 (414615) 14.5% alcohol
This red blend of 65% Tannat, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, from the ‘King of Tannat’, Alain Brumont, commands your attention. Aromas of ripe, juicy fruit and mixed spice provide segue to a luscious, concentrated and firmly structured gusher of juicy black berry and dark black cherry on the palate. This is nicely balanced, medium-full bodied with generous mouth feel and a lingering aftertaste replaying flavours and layering on black plum compote. This hits all the right notes and can be drunk now after a three-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

France: Rosé Wine

La Cadierenne ‘Cuvée Grande Tradition’ Bandol Rosé 2014 

AOC Bandol $19.95 (119453) 13.5% alcohol 

Barely pink-hued, it dishes up a delicate array of aromas—strawberry, watermelon and rose petals. In spite of the subtle beginning, it’s medium-plus weight and nicely textured with a surge of flavour coating the palate—piquant spice, pie cherry and red currant to the fore. Flavours replay on the refreshing finish. Pour alongside pan-seared salmon under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: Red Wine

Tenuta Del Portale ‘Starsa’ 2012
IGT Basilicata $15.95 (416164) 13.5% alcohol
Smoke, toast and briary berry aromas herald mid-weight, nicely textured flavours of sweet, ripe mulberry juxtaposed with racy pie cherry—great sweet and tang on the palate adorned with hints of tar and espresso roast. It finishes in a blaze of flavour and tang with roasted herbs and red berry fruit. Pairs and pours well with spaghetti Bolognese. (Vic Harradine)

Bricco Rosso ‘Suagná’ 2009
DOC Langhe Rosso $14.95 (417022) 14.0% alcohol
This bistro-styled red offers very good value and versatility at the dinner table—deli platter, charcuterie, aged hard cheese. Charred campfire smoke and red and black berry fruit aromas set the stage for a juicy, lively spray of cranberry and red currant mingling with black berry on the palate persisting through the mid-length finish. (Vic Harradine)

Fattoria Carpineta ‘Fontalpino Do Ut Des’ 2011

IGT Toscana $37.95 (48827) 14.5% alcohol

This big, age-worthy blend of Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon captivates with delicious aromas of steaming espresso and spice, cedar and dark berry. Spicy warmth wraps around intense dark fruit flavours. The tannins make their presence felt underlying the velvety, medium-full bodied texture with fine acidity accenting the fruit flavours. Tasty spice and toasty coffee bean notes replay through the extended dry finish. Serve with venison stew over polenta. (Susan Desjardins) 

Lucignano Chianti - Colli Fiorentini 2011
DOCG Chianti $19.95 (651273) 14.0% alcohol
Toasted oak and tobacco leaf, red cherry/berry and espresso roast on the nose, this is dishes up a value-laden Chianti that’s fruity, tangy and stylish. It’s mid weight with a solid line of tang from stem to stern. A river of pie cherry and cranberry is nicely balanced with ripe blueberry and roasted herbs on the palate, replaying through the persistent aftertaste. Pour alongside pastitsio. (Vic Harradine)

Ruffino ‘Modus’ 2011
IGT Toscana $29.95 (912956) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of dark berry fruit, cola and sweet vanilla introduce a luscious, swirling tapestry of flavour—juicy black currant, cassis and tangy pomegranate interwoven with oodles of tangy red currant. This Super Tuscan, a red blend—50% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot—was hand harvested from low-yielding vines and spent 12 months in small French and American oak casks. This is mid-plus bodied with good texture and fine-grained tannin underpinning. Good to pour now after a three-hour aeration/decant or carefully cellar two more years. (Vic Harradine)

San Felice ‘Vigorello’ 2010
IGT Toscana $59.95 (726463) 14.0% alcohol
Go back a couple of decades and seasoned wine-lovers will remember this as the inexpensive alternative to the likes of Sassicaia and Tignanello—the 2010’s a cellar dweller at this stage of life of its life. There’s oodles of fruit—black currant and ripe mulberry mingling with kirsch liqueur and savoury herbs—a solid line of acidity and a cloak of grainy tannin. Everything’s there for you, just supply the patience—open 2019 - 2025 to reap your reward. (Vic Harradine)

Spain: Red Wine

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)

Borsao ‘Berola’ 2011
DO Campo de Borja $17.00 (371518) 15.0% alcohol
From the folks that bring you Tres Picos, this Garnacha-predominant Berola is also a stunner. Aromas of pipe tobacco and earthy notes blend with blueberry compote on the nose. There’s a rich, luscious stream of boysenberry pie and ripe mulberry interlaced with bittersweet chocolate, sweet vanilla and black pepper. Medium bodied with good mouth feel, it finishes with a flourish of tangy red berry fruit and lip-smacking tang. (Vic Harradine)

Breca ‘Old Vines’ Garnacha 2012
DO Catalayud $19.95 (329086)
Here’s another superb ‘Wine of the Month’ selection—it’s exceptional value, structured and complex with purity of fruit and a lingering aftertaste. Alluring aromas of Christmas cake spice, dark berry fruit and espresso roast provide seamless entry to a velvet-textured stream of cherry clafoutie and bramble berry entwining with dark chocolate and piquant spice. It’s framed by friendly acidity, underpinned by soft, ripe tannin and absolutely delicious. (Vic Harradine)

Viña Olabarri ‘Gran Reserva’ 2005 

DOCa Rioja $24.95 (329102) 13.5% alcohol 

Ten-years on, this hits its stride with a bouquet of dried cherry fruit, leather, black plum and floral notes. It bathes the palate with a smooth mellow mouthful of red and dark cherry, mocha and milk chocolate. Its mid-plus bodied with decent texture and a balanced and beautiful finish and aftertaste. Good value here. (Vic Harradine) 

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: Fall 2015

  
Tawse Winery Chardonnay Icewine 2013 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $34.95 (204990) 200 mL 10.5% alcohol
Urban legend has it icewine is often re-gifted because of its impressive, rock-star status. It would reflect questionable judgment to not open and enjoy this one; it’s stunning. Aromas of honeyed mango and apple pie spice mingle with baking spice before coating the palate with unfettered nectar of the gods—candied blood orange, grilled pineapple and piquant baking spice. Yin meets yang on the finish with ripe mango and lemon acidity providing a sweet and tang, fairly balanced aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared foie gras, fruit flan or blue-veined cheese. (Vic Harradine)

  
Tawse Winery ‘Sketches’ Riesling 2014
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (89029) 10.0% alcohol
Opening with delicate aromas of Key lime, lemon and notions of flint and slate, this coats the palate with a deliriously delicious, sweet and tang flow of lime cordial, lemon curd and grilled pineapple. It’s balanced on a pin with persistent purity of fruit and lingering aftertaste that’s to die for. Exceptional wine at an exceptional price; pick up a few for easy drinking now to 2018. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

Bundeena Bay ‘Vineyard Series’ Sauvignon Blanc 2014
South Eastern Australia $13.95 (400291) 13.0% alcohol
This is a crowd-pleasing, cool-climate, value-laden beauty from Orange, New South Wales. Tropical fruit and citrus notes mingle with a feint wisp of grassy notes on the nose. It rolls over the palate with sweet and tang delivered on a medium-bodied, nicely textured wave. Lemon pie filling interweaves with lime cordial and hints of gooseberry finishing crisp, clean and refreshing. Pour with crumbled chèvre over olive-oil dressed mesclun salad. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Kacaba wine is $1 off the price shown June 21 to July 18, 2015

  
Kacaba ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2014
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (326975) 12.4% alcohol
Perfumed and aromatic on the nose, floral notes meld with aromas of tropical fruit. It bathes the palate with a light-on-its-feet wash of Granny Smith apple and lemon curd interwoven with notions of pear and Key lime. It finishes clean, crisp and refreshing looking for a table mate—pour alongside pan-seared freshwater fish or mussels steamed in white wine. There’s very good value to be had here. (Vic Harradine)  

Kellermeister ‘Barossa Vineyards’ Chardonnay 2011
Barossa Valley, Australia $15.20 (400424) 12.0% alcohol
Toasty notes, sandalwood and baking spice aromas interweave on the nose of this mid-full weight, creamy textured Chardonnay. It coats the palate with apple pie spice and binned apple persisting through the sweet finish. There’s a nice bite of tang on the aftertaste. Pour with milk-marinated, pan-seared scallops. (Vic Harradine)

Kellermeister ‘The Funk Wagon’ GSM 2011
Barossa Valley, Australia $16.30 (400465) 14.5% alcohol
Rich, robust and replete with aromas of floral notes, boysenberry and black currant, it coats the palate with flavours of ripe mulberry, bramble berry jelly garnished with cola and cassis persisting through the lengthy finish. It’s smooth and medium bodied with good mouth feel. This is a Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvèdre blend with the aftertaste lingering with piquant spice and fruit. Pour with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Miguel Torres ‘Las Mulas Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
Central Valley, Chile $12.95 (407494) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of very ripe berry fruit and black plum compote mingle with spice and earthy notes. It bathes the palate with a medium-weight, smoothly textured stream of cassis and black currant garnished with black licorice and Christmas cake spice. It finishes nicely balanced and fruity. Pour alongside burgers, ribs, steak or grilled gourmet sausage. The vineyards have been certified organic and the price-quality ratio skews well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Order the following wine by the case for delivery to home, office or licensee from Grange of Prince Edward along with those reviewed in the April 28, May 13 and June 13, 2015 winecurrent newsletter or pick up from the winery in Hillier, Prince Edward County.

  
Grange of Prince Edward ‘Lot 2 Traditional Method’ Brut 2010
VQA Prince Edward County $29.95 12.2% alcohol
This 2/3rd Pinot Noir, 1/3rd Chardonnay blend dishes a solid line of acidity caressed by lively mousse and persistent stream of fine-bead bubbles. Toasty notes and Granny Smith apple mingle with leesy notes heralding a river of lip-smacking sensations on the palate—flinty/slate and mineral notes join racy citrus and hints of rising bread dough. Pouring well now, pair with ceviche, sashimi or oysters Kilpatrick. (Vic Harradine)

• Order by the case for home, office or restaurant delivery by phoning Greenlane Estate Winery @ 905 562-7207 or send email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

  
Greenlane Pinot Gris 2013
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $16.95 12.9% alcohol
This is the winery’s top retail seller, and has a great story associated with the light apricot tone. There was a new winery and cellar with the cement crush pad barely set and the press silent—the Toronto-based electrician didn’t really know winery equipment—while grapes were sitting on their skins. The winemaker came to the rescue with a carefully selected filtration medium. The wine’s delightful, offering tantalizing aromas of apricot, lime, honey and melon as well as a silky texture with a touch of spritz. Dry and medium bodied, melon flavours mingle with the tang of grapefruit pith to create a keen, tangy freshness through the finish. This is a tasty sipper that’ll pair well with a range of salads, white fish or meats. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2013
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $17.95 13.0% alcohol
A Bronze-medal winner at the All-Canadian Wine Championships. Handpicked fruit from 9-year-old vines had extensive lees contact in the production of this wine designed to prove wrong the ABC crowd. Delightful, clean aromas of crisp apple, ripe pear and juicy citrus lift from the glass of this medium-bodied beauty. The wine’s lively, vibrant with tangy acidity and mineral notes while rich with refreshing flavours of green apple and lemon zest lingering on the palate and long, dry, bright finish. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane Chardonnay 2013
Lincoln Lakeshore $19.95 13.5% alcohol
A Silver-medal winner at the All-Canadian Wine Championships. Thirty percent of the wine was aged in oak, hints of spice garnishing aromas of ripe apple and pear. There’s great balance here, this medium-bodied white offering a creamy, fresh texture combining a subtle touch of toasted nut with luscious flavours of custard pear tart. Consistent throughout, it finishes long, round and tangy. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane Rosé 2013
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $15.95 12.5% alcohol
This blend of Cabernet Franc and Riesling has lots of character showcasing a beautiful salmon hue. On the nose, ripe red fruits combine with notes of red pepper jelly and dried herbs. Dry, with Greenlane’s characteristic combination of a round, fresh texture, the red fruits are tangy—cranberry, currant and pomegranate—the subtle note of dried herbs and ripe red peppers adding depth and intrigue. A versatile wine to enjoy with charcuterie, grilled salmon, burgers or pizza. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane ‘Old Vines’ Riesling 2012
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $24.95 11.4% alcohol
The warm vintage delivers an intense, powerful wine, the nose redolent of pear and citrus with a clear whiff of petrol. Round and ripe, flavours of ripe apple layer on lemon/lime and grapefruit zest. Long, with a clean, pithy finish that’s balanced by the roundness of the ripe fruit, this is a wine that will pair well with roast pork and will evolve further over time. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane ‘Reserve Old Vines’ Riesling 2011
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $35.00 10.8% alcohol
A personal favourite, this was produced from fruit fermented separately in a 1000 litre tank, the wine then held 24 months in bottle. Ethereal aromas include elusive notes of wet stone, petrol and white flowers melding with melon and baked pear. Dry, medium bodied, the texture is tangy and juicy, the flavours reminiscent of fresh squeezed lemon and lime drizzled over green apple. Displaying great elegance and balance and designed to cellar, you’ll enjoy savouring this wine on its own or with a selection of artisan Ontario cheese. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane Chardonnay ‘Sur Lie’ 2010
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $35.00 13.9% alcohol
This could also be called the ‘investor’s reserve’, as it is the favourite wine of Greenlane’s proprietor. The grapes from this fabulous, warm vintage were handpicked, sorted and after fermentation, aged in second fill and neutral oak barrel for twenty-two months, then held for 12 months in bottle. Brilliant gold, it offers a palate of complex aromas—toasted nut, butter pastry, pineapple, pear and apple tart. Dry, medium-full bodied, the power and intensity of the fruit is balanced by a creamy, fresh texture, the fruit flavours and subtle nutty notes replaying through a long, spiced finish. Rich and flavourful, it’s a match for coquille St-Jacques, or butternut squash ravioli with cream sauce. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane Cabernet 2013
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $16.95 12.3% alcohol
Ruby-red hued, this blend of the Cabernets approachable now offering aromas of red and black berry, spice, hints of pencil shavings and grilled bread. It’s medium bodied with good freshness to the texture while perceptible tannin frames the cherry/berry fruit. Notes of dried herbs and a touch of spice linger on the dry finish. Tasty and food friendly, you’ll enjoy it with burgers or pizza. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane Cabernet Franc 2012
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $23.95 13.1% alcohol
A Silver-medal winner at the All-Canadian Wine Championships. Aged nine months in French oak—a product of the warm 2012 vintage—it showcases lovely aromas of black cherry, raspberry, violet and dark chocolate shavings. Medium-full bodied, there’s harmony and integration to this artfully balanced wine. Ripe tannin provides subtle underpinning while classic fresh texture accents ripe fruit flavours. There’s a hint of white pepper and lovely notes of dark chocolate and light toast persisting on the dry extended finish. One bottle will definitely not be enough. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Greenlane Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $32.95 13.5% alcohol
The length and warmth of this vintage meant that the grapes for this wine had extended hang time; it was hand-picked and sorted the 3rd week of November. Aged in barrel for nineteen months, gently punched down 4 times a day, this dry, full bodied gem offers great intensity and extraction. On the nose, the aromas of cassis and berry are rich and ripe, traces of vanilla, chocolate and spice merging and mingling with the fruit. Velvety tannins and refined acidity frame the concentrated dark fruit, hints of smoke, dried herbs, spice and pepper adding depth and complexity. Long and intense on the finish, the wine will cellar well and may be enjoyed now with grilled beef tenderloin or barbequed leg of lamb. (Susan Desjardins)

• The following wine can be ordered by the case for daily home, office or restaurant delivery from Kacaba or picked up from the winery on King Street in Vineland.

  
Kacaba ‘Reserve’ Riesling 2014
VQA Niagara Escarpment $17.95 11.5% alcohol
Gunflint and sharp spice aromas interlace with citrus and green apple on the nose. It dishes up a clean crisp line of lemon acidity racing across the palate meeting up with balancing and luscious waves of lemon pie filling and sugared, grilled grapefruit flavour—lip smacking good. (Vic Harradine)

  
Kacaba ‘Jennifer’s’ Pinot Gris 2014
VQA Niagara Escarpment $17.95 12.5% alcohol
The bronze/brick hue is a reminder of the unusual shifting of skin colour in the Pinot family—Noir, Gris and Blanc… read more. Aromas of exotic spice and floral notes set the stage for a medium bodied, fully textured surge of sugared, grilled ruby red grapefruit, red currant and strawberry/rhubarb compote. It finishes in a blaze of crisp, clean, refreshing sweet and tang. This is a lovely wine at an exceptional price. Don’t hesitate to pick up a case and pour with appetizers or mains—seafood, pork, chicken, turkey—charcuterie or deli board over the next 24 months. A Silver Medal winner at the Ontario Wine Awards; bravo to winemaker John Tummon. (Vic Harradine)

  
Kacaba ‘Rebecca’s’ Rosé 2014
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 12.5% alcohol  
Jasmine and mixed field berry fruit aromas on the nose, it bathes the palate with balanced, beautiful flavour—fresh picked strawberry, red grapefruit and tangy pie cherry. This 100% Gamay dishes up a mid-weight, nicely textured gem with a fruity, tangy, spice-infused finish and aftertaste. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; what are you waiting for? (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine plus wine reviewed in the June 10, 2015 newsletter is available by the case for home, office or restaurant delivery from Strewn or can be picked up from the winery on Lakeshore Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake. 

  
Strewn ‘Terroir’ Pinot Blanc 2014
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $19.15 13.8% alcohol
Aromas of tropical fruit, honeyed and floral notes make way for a medium weight, nicely textured river of unfettered ambrosia. Delicious flavours coat the palate with ripe peach, grilled pineapple and mouth-watering citrus to the fore. Off-dry flavours replay on the palate with a splash of honeydew melon. Give this value-packed beauty a go with spicy Asian cuisine; tandoori chicken or spicy beef. (Vic Harradine)

  
Strewn ‘Terroir’ Sauvignon Blanc 2014
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $20.15 13.6% alcohol
Orchard fruit and citrus aromas mingle with herbs on the nose of this crisp and refreshing gem. A mouth-watering stream of lime cordial, lemon curd and gooseberry streak across the palate, full of nerve and verve. It’s mid weight with good mouth feel and a racy finish, clean and tangy. Pour with olive-oiled arugula under grilled crumbled chèvre. (Vic Harradine)

  
Strewn ‘Terroir’ Riesling 2014
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $19.15 12.1% alcohol
Floral notes, tropical fruit and citrus aromas provide segue for a sweet and tang rush of white nectarine and lemon-lime cordial bathing the palate, infusing the mouth-watering finish. The lengthy, luscious aftertaste adds quite a flourish with steely minerality, piquant spice and gooseberry galore. This is mid-weight with textured mouth feel and a boatload of charm. Pour with crumbled chèvre over olive-oil dressed arugula, charcuterie or mixed deli platter. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine is available by the case for daily home, office or restaurant delivery online from Tawse along with those reviewed in the recent June 10, 2015 newsletter or pick up at the winery on Cherry Ave. in Vineland. 

  
Tawse Winery Chardonnay Icewine 2013 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $34.95 (204990) 200 mL 10.5% alcohol
Urban legend has it icewine is often re-gifted because of its rock-star status. It would reflect questionable judgment to not open and enjoy this one; it’s stunning. Aromas of honeyed mango and apple pie spice mingle with baking spice before coating the palate with unfettered nectar of the gods—candied blood orange, grilled pineapple and piquant baking spice. Yin meets yang on the finish with ripe mango and lemon acidity providing a sweet and tang, fairly balanced aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared foie gras, fruit flan or blue-veined cheese. (Vic Harradine)

New in Private Order (wine delivered to your home, office or restaurant in Ontario in 8 – 10 weeks)

• Order the following wine and those reviewed in the recent June 10, 2015 newsletter by the case for home, restaurant or office delivery (in Ontario) from Nokhrin Wines or email, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; if in the GTA phone (416) 704-8617.

La Canosa Vino Spumante Rosé Brut Non-Vintage
Product of Italy $18.95 12.0% alcohol
This ‘Metodo Charmat’ aka Cuve Close, underwent its 2nd fermentation in a large tank, rather than ‘Methode Traditionelle’ where it occurs in the bottle. Aromas of red currant and strawberry open this slightly off-dry, 100% Sangiovese, sparkling wine. It bathes the palate with soft bubbles and a persistent flow of candied cherry and watermelon finishing dry with a lovely layer of ruby red grapefruit. Pour with charcuterie or mixed deli platter. (Vic Harradine)

La Canosa Vino Spumante Brut Non-Vintage
Product of Italy $19.95 12.0% alcohol
This is a crowd-pleasing, flavourful sparkling wine, produced from 100% Passerina, a local white grape. This Italian region has been producing sparkling wine for over four centuries. Aromas of tropical fruit, ripe pineapple and caramel precede a profusion of bubbles carrying a slightly off-dry flow of lemon pie filling, minerality and grilled, sugared, white grapefruit. Pour alongside fish and seafood. (Vic Harradine)

La Canosa ‘Pekó’ Pecorino 2014
DOCG Offida Pecorino, Italy $17.45 13.0% alcohol
It’s believed the recently re-discovered Pecorino grape is indigenous to this area of the Marche region—urban legend has it the name’s derived from the Italian for sheep – pecora – as sheep supposedly ate the ripe grapes while walking through vineyards. Golden-yellow-hued, this leaps from the glass with buckwheat honey, floral notes and charm. It bathes the palate with a balanced and beautiful wave of blood orange and lemon curd garnished with grilled pineapple and a salad bowl of tropical fruit. This is structured, nuanced, oozing style and grace with a monumental, delicious aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

• Order the following wine by the case for home, restaurant or office delivery and receive $12 discount per case of 12 when ordered by Wednesday, July 15. Free delivery in the GTA or delivered to your local LCBO for pick up. Order from VIP Wine and Spirits via email to Dave Coutts This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Clos du Porteau ‘Le Courlis’ ‘Sauvignon 2014
AOC Touraine, France $13.95 12.5% alcohol
This Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley delivers in spades punching well above the price. There are grassy and gooseberry notes with a hint of lanolin on the nose while a medium-bodied, generously textured wash of tangy lemon pie filling, quince paste and notions of Key lime bathe the palate. Persistence flavours replay on the finish layering on peppery spice with the mouth-watering aftertaste. Multi-talented winemaker, Aynard de Clermont Tonnerre, drew ‘Le Courlis’ (the Curlew) on the label. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers Vic, Susan and Julie