March 12, 2017 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights include:

• Exceptional-value wine  – 7 of 38 wines soon to be available at LCBO retail meet the strict quality-price guidelines. They range from $14.95 to $39.95 and are found throughout the newsletter easily identified via the exceptional-value checkmark above. Strict guidelines? Click here.
• 95 and over – only one wine currently available at retail scored 95 or over: 2013 Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon earned 95 points @ $39.95 found under Australia: Red Wine
• Louise Loves – 2014 Yalumba ‘Patchwork’ Shiraz earned 91 points @ $21.95 found under Australia: Red Wine; 2016 Tohu ‘Single Vineyard’ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc earned 89 points at $21.95 found under New Zealand: White Wine; 2014 Wither Hills Pinot Noir earned 90 points @ $29.95 found under New Zealand: Red Wine.
• Lisa Likes – 2016 Château des Charmes ‘Cuvée d’Andrée’ earned 90 points @ $15.95 found under Ontario: Rose Wine; 2014 Raymond ‘Reserve Selection’ Cabernet Sauvignon earned 90 points @ $42.95 found under Califiornia: Red Wine; 2014 Andreza ‘Reserva’ earned 87 points at $16.95 found under Portugal: Red Wine.

Identify 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 stores near you is displayed—or by clicking ‘Check all stores’ where you’ll see stock available in all LCBO stores. For Vintages Release wines, stock should be displayed the Friday before a Saturday release, updated every 24 hours, some stores post earlier. LCBO Portfolio wines (wine not in Vintages) should always closely reflect stock in stores, updated every 24 hours. However, it’s always best to phone stores before making a trip.

Vintages Release: March 17, 2018

Sparkling Wine: Italy

91
Bertolani Rosé Non-Vintage

DOC Lambrusco Reggiano $14.95 (422865) 11.0% alcohol

Deep rose in hue, this is a distinctive sparkling wine that shows great balance and vitality. Red berry aromas mingle with nuances of spiced flowers and dried lavender. The palate mirrors the red berry aromas and the hint of garden herbs, the creamy mousse and racy acidity sustaining the flavours through a long-lasting, dry finish. Serve with charcuterie or with porchetta. (Susan Desjardins)

Ontario: White Wine

88
Fielding ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2016
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (164491) 12.5% alcohol
Appealing aromas of green apple, pear, peach and citrus notes with notions of honeysuckle and spice precede nicely-textured palate-bathing flavours of red apple, lemon peel and beeswax. Dry and medium bodied, it’s creamy smooth and nicely textured due to time spent on its lees. Well balanced with refreshing acidity, it finishes mid-plus length with a pleasant mineral aftertaste. Pair this mouth-watering, exceptional-value chardonnay with chicken breast in a Dijon-tarragon cream sauce. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Tzafona Cellars Cold Climate Unoaked Chardonnay KP 2015

VQA Niagara Peninsula $22.95 (485276) 13.0% alcohol

This stylish Chardonnay is part of the lineup of Kosher for Passover Certified wines produced by Tzafona Cellars. It's golden yellow with notes of green apple on the nose. It's crisp on the palate with hints of lime and apple and a long citrus finish. Enjoy with lemon-poached chicken breast. (Dave Isaacs)

Okanagan Valley: White Wine

93
Quails’ Gate Chardonnay 2015

VQA Okanagan Valley $23.95 (377770) 14.0% alcohol

Quiet aromas of sandalwood, citrus and apple introduce a sleek and lean flow of tang-infused lemon and grapefruit racing across the palate with Granny Smith apple and ripe pear flavours. This is mid-weight with decent texture and crisp, clean mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared salmon under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Red Wine

88
Wildass Merlot 2016
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (376822) 13.0% alcohol
The fruit aromas are ripe and dark on the nose—blackberry, plum and blueberry notes are joined by notions of dark chocolate, spice and mineral. Flavours of juicy plum, blackberry, baking spice and dusty cocoa bathe the palate. Dry, mid-plus weight with firm tannins, an interesting sweet dark berry note appears mid-palate and persists into the lengthy finish. This is sure to please paired alongside pulled pork sliders. (Lisa Isabelle)

Ontario: Rosé Wine

90
Château des Charmes ‘Cuvée d’Andrée’ Rosé 2016
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $15.95 (333260) 12.6% alcohol
Only pinot noir is used to produce this appealing, exceptional-value rosé. Inviting strawberry, apple, lemon and orchard blossom aromas leap from the glass. The palate is crisp and mouth-watering with tangy lemon and pink grapefruit flavours blended with crunchy red apple, dried herbs and a pleasant mineral note. It finishes mid-plus length with a savoury note on the aftertaste. Enjoy this dry, light-medium weight gem with baked arctic char. (Lisa Isabelle)

California: White Wine

87
Francis Coppola ‘Director’s’ Chardonnay 2015
Sonoma County $31.95 (396291) 13.5% alcohol
This expressive chardonnay was produced with fruit sourced from the cool Russian River Valley and aged 8 months in French oak barrels, 40% new, before bottling. Binned apple, melon and lemon curd aromas are joined by light spice and floral notes on the nose. Flavours of green apple and pineapple, sprinkled with baking spice and sweet vanilla, flow easily over the palate. Pair this dry, medium bodied white with butternut squash risotto. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Franciscan Chardonnay 2015
Napa Valley $25.95 (538454) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of baked apple, pineapple and mango entwined with hints of vanilla bean, spice and butter repeat on the flavourful palate. Dry, medium bodied and nicely textured with bright acidity, there’s a pleasing balance of ripe fruit flavours and toasty oak notes on the extended finish. Enjoy with a warm scallop salad with mango and hazelnuts. (Lisa Isabelle)

93
Paul Hobbs Chardonnay 2013

Russian River Valley, Sonoma County $67.95 (119073) 14.1% alcohol

Meticulous vineyard management and handling of fruit mark all Paul Hobbs wines. This was hand-harvested at night, whole-cluster pressed, barrel fermented with wild yeast then aged sur lie 12 months in French oak barrel, 47% new and bottled January 2015 unfined and unfiltered. It’s full bodied, fully textured and bursting with flavour. Toasty buttery notes interlace with racy citrus, baking spice and caramel aromas. This replays on the palate garnished by more racy acidity and discernible oak on the lengthy finish—another 6 months in bottle will be handsomely rewarded. (Vic Harradine)

88
Noble Vines ‘Collection 446’ Chardonnay 2015
San Bernabe, Monterey $18.95 (458687) 14.5% alcohol
Caramel apple, lemon, vanilla, buttered toast and smoke aromas prepare the palate for a wash of ripe red apple, lemon and toffee flavours. Dry, medium bodied with enough acidity to balance, it offers a lengthy, fruit-driven finish with a hint of smoke on the aftertaste. Pair with grilled west coast salmon. (Lisa Isabelle)

California: Red Wine

89
Ironstone Lodi Merlot 2015

Lodi $17.95 (704353) 14.5% alcohol

This Merlot was left to ripen to full maturity showcasing a fleshy, fruit-forward red with hi-alcohol and rich, ripe fruit flavour galore. Aromas and flavours of black currant, blackberry and black plum compote are nicely supported by dark bittersweet chocolate and espresso roast persisting through the nicely balanced—red cherry and red currant—aftertaste. It’s mid-full weight with good mouthfeel and offers an interesting, delicious take on this oft-maligned grape variety. (Vic Harradine)

90
Irony ‘Small Lot Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2015

North Coast $24.95 (25106) 13.5% alcohol

Grilled savory herb and baking spice aromas support the predominant rich, ripe berry fruit on the nose of this structured, complex red. The palate’s awash with dark bramble berry and black cherry flavour intertwined with mocha, sweet vanilla, cassis and soft, ripe tannin. It’s medium-plus bodied with silky mouthfeel and lengthy balanced finish. As California cab prices go, this offers very good value. Aerate/decant a couple of hours before serving. (Vic Harradine)

90
Napa Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

Napa Valley $34.95 (432211) 14.5% alcohol

This is well structured, tightly packed and oozing with sweet, ripe fruit. Aromas of cracked black pepper, briary black berry and juicy, black Bing cherry roll out a welcome for a rich, luscious flow of Kirsch liqueur, cassis and bramble berry jam. With replays on the finish also mingling with wisps of tannin, bittersweet chocolate and sweet vanilla, the sweet ripe fruit runs from cork pop to last drop. (Vic Harradine)

88
Napa Cellars Merlot 2014
Napa Valley $29.95 (161299) 14.5% alcohol
Plum and blueberry aromas overlaid with nuances of milk chocolate, vanilla and spice open this dry, medium-full bodied, well-balanced red. Silky smooth in texture, dark fruit, vanilla and spice notes replay on the palate. There’s a hint of blueberry compote on the warm, lasting finish and aftertaste. Enjoy with pork tenderloin and roasted root vegetables. (Lisa Isabelle)

90
Raymond ‘Reserve Selection’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Napa Valley $42.95 (715979) 15.0% alcohol
This anniversary offering celebrates 40 years of wine making at Raymond Vineyards and five generations of wine makers in Napa Valley. Aromas of blackberry, cassis, and plum entwined with savoury herbs, sweet vanilla and subtle floral notes segue to a flavourful stream of ripe, dark fruit, vanilla and spice. Dry, full bodied with a rich, mouth-coating texture and well-integrated alcohol, firm tannins and generous fruit flavours extend into the lengthy, minty finish. Enjoy with rare-grilled beef and decant a couple of hours before serving. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Rutherford Hill Merlot 2014
Napa Valley $39.95 (959338) 14.5% alcohol
This 86% merlot, with the remainder a mix of other Bordeaux grape varieties, spent 16 months in French oak barrel prior to bottling. It opens with an abundance of plum, dark berry fruit and blueberry pie aromas with notions of anise, black pepper, leather and violet. Dry, full bodied, the palate offers concentrated dark plum, blackberry jam, chocolate and tobacco flavours to be enjoyed through the long, drying finish. Enjoy with herb-encrusted lamb chops. (Lisa Isabelle)

Washington State: Red Wine

87
Seven Falls Cellars Merlot 2013
Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley $21.95 (420711) 14.5% alcohol
Fruit for this 90% merlot / 10% syrah blend were sourced from three vineyards and aged 18 months in French and American oak barrels prior to bottling. Subtle aromas of dark cherry, strawberry, vanilla and spice gently appear on the nose. The palate offers juicy dark fruit seasoned with vanilla, cloves and dark chocolate. Dry, medium bodied and smooth, this complements mildly spiced chicken tagine. (Lisa Isabelle)

Argentina: White Wine

87
Zuccardi ‘Serie A’ Chardonnay/Viognier 2016
Uco Valley, Mendoza $16.95 (262097) 13.0% alcohol
This blend of 85% chardonnay/15% viognier was sourced from hand-harvested fruit. Aromas of ripe pear, peach, pineapple and floral notes abound. The round mouthfeel is amplified on the palate with delicious ripe apricot, tropical fruit and nutmeg flavours followed by a touch of fresh ginger on the lingering, dry finish. This is medium-bodied, well balanced and good accompaniment to grilled chicken served with pineapple salsa. (Louise Boutin)

Chile: White Wine

90
Concha Y Toro ‘Serie Riberas - Gran Riserva’ Chardonnay 2016
Colchagua Valley $18.95 (287995) 14.0% alcohol
A gorgeous bouquet of orchard fruit —peach, yellow apple, pear complemented with delicate vanilla and roasted hazelnut hints escape the glass. Juicy ripe peaches and Golden Delicious apple flavours flow on the palate with layers of lemon-curd and vanilla notes courtesy 10-months ageing in French oak barrels. It is balanced, medium-full bodied with a lingering elegant oaky finish and is perfect to enjoy with a rich coquille St-Jacques now onto 2020. (Louise Boutin)

Chile: Red Wine

89
Arboleda Carmenère 2015
Aconcagua Valley $19.95 (46284) 14.0% alcohol
Though Carmenère is generally accepted to be native to France, it may have found its true expression in Chile where it’s now widely planted. Green bell pepper and tobacco aromas fill the air until a vigorous swirl encourages black fruit aromas—cherry and blackberry—along with cassis. These black fruit flavours replay on the palate carried by fine-textured tannin along with piquant peppercorn and persistent green bell pepper notes offering a delicious savoury finish. This is a charming full-bodied red that pours well with hearty lasagna. (Louise Boutin)

Australia: White Wine

90
Robert Oatley ‘Signature Series’ Chardonnay 2016

Margaret River, Western Australia $18.95 (350900) 12.5% alcohol

Powerful aromas of toasty oak and spice on the nose precede a balanced and beautiful flow of sweet-tinged Golden Delicious apple, ripe pear and Mirabelle plum nicely juxtaposed with a glorious rush of racy lemon acidity on the back palate and persisting through the long finish—clean, crisp and refreshing. This is medium-full bodied with good texture and delivers a price-quality balance tipped wildly in your favour. Pour with roast bird and all the extras. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

• The following 57% Sangiovese/43% Shiraz blend showcases sangiovese fruit sourced from +30-year-old, estate-grown vines. Mark Lloyd, General Manager/past winemaker at Coriole, is a true pioneer in recognizing and planting vines of Italian origin in McLaren Vale, South Australia. The painting on the wine label of the following wine is by Mark Lloyd’s mother, Mary (Molly) Kathleen Lloyd.
 

93
Coriole Vineyards Sangiovese/Shiraz 2016

McLaren Vale $17.95 (534610) 14.5% alcohol

Lifted aromas of black pepper, red fruit and wisps of floral notes open this medium-weight, well-textured, balanced beauty. There’s persistent purity of fruit with strawberry/rhubarb and tangy red currant adorned with spice and savory herbs dazzling the palate infusing the lip-smacking finish and aftertaste—ready to drink now and simply delicious. Pour with a deli board and baguette—spicy olives, mortadella, capicola and Provolone cheese. (Vic Harradine)

• The label and winery website have a fanciful look, but winemaking at MollyDooker is far from frivolous. Awards include top ten wines in the world by Wine Spectator three years in a row leading to international recognition. With innovation to the fore, the following 2016 Mollydooker ‘The Boxer’ Shiraz has an introduction of nitrogen to ameliorate wine oxidation, thereby considerably reducing sulphite use; special handling when opening is suggested to fully appreciate this benefit: Learn how here. (notes and video link courtesy Louise Boutin)

92
Mollydooker ‘The Boxer’ Shiraz 2016

South Australia $32.95 (246595) 16.0% alcohol

The lifted nose leaps from the glass with aromas of piquant spice, red berry fruit and floral notes. It’s juicy, ripe and luscious on the palate. A generously textured surge of black berry, dark cherry and baking spice capture the palate and finish while the aftertaste is adorned with sweet- and tang-tinged, lingering fruit flavour. Aerate/decant for two hours pairing with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

95
Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Margaret River $39.95 (433045) 14.0% alcohol
This blend of 90% cabernet sauvignon, 7% malbec, 3% petit verdot exudes lavishness on the nose— ripe black cherry, blackberry, lavender, licorice, mild cedar and vanilla. It’s a full-bodied, exuberant red flowing over the palate with concentrated dark fruity flavours—cherry, black raspberry and black currant—enhanced with dark chocolate and freshly cracked peppercorn notes. This is perfectly balanced with fine-tannin grip and persistent purity of fruit infusing the lengthy, oaky finish. Delectable now onto 2025, it’s a perfect pairing with rare prime rib au jus. Aerate/decant one to two hours before service. (Louise Boutin)

91
Yalumba ‘Patchwork’ Shiraz 2014
Barossa Valley $21.95 (98392) 13.5% alcohol
This is from the historic Barossa region and fashioned by family vignerons who have been working the land and making wine there since 1849. Concentrated aromas of ripe black plum, black cherry, licorice and mineral notes ooze from the glass; the first sip hard to resist. It offers ample and silky textured layers of ripe black fruit, tangy red plum, savoury black olive and a suggestion of cinnamon on the long, spicy finish. This is medium-full bodied with well-integrated tannin and a delight from start to finish. Bring on the roasted rack of lamb for a delectable regional pairing. Pour now onto 2021. (Louise Boutin)

New Zealand: White Wine

89
Tohu ‘Single Vineyard’ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2016
Marlborough, South Island $21.95 (536177) 13.0% alcohol
This is sourced from the highest altitude vineyards in Marlborough’s Awatere Valley. Once passed the wisps of canned-peas, delicate aromas of Asian pear, lemongrass and wet rock join the olfactive dance. Fresh Meyer lemon flavours take the lead on the lively flavour trail inviting green apple, lime zest and mineral notes to paint an elegant fresh and crisp finish. Not for the faint of palate, it’s a perfect pairing with scallop ceviche. (Louise Boutin)

New Zealand: Red Wine

85
Kim Crawford Merlot 2016
Hawkes Bay $19.95 (680967) 13.0% alcohol
Merlot is native to Bordeaux, France, now finding good growing conditions in Hawkes Bay to freely express its personality. Aromas of black cherry, tobacco, green bell pepper and earthy notes waft from the glass. Black and red cherry palate flavours mingle with savoury herbs and a touch of black pepper on the finish and aftertaste. This is medium-bodied with soft tannin and partners well with roast chicken or eggplant parmigiana on a bed of fresh pasta. (Louise Boutin)

90
Wither Hills Pinot Noir 2014
Marlborough $29.95 (919829) 14.5% alcohol
Fragrant aromas of dried rose petals interweave with red cherry, red plum, ripe blackberry and a touch of earthiness. The palate welcomes flavours of red fruit—ripe cherry, raspberry and tangy pomegranate--with hints of savoury herbs framed in ripe, compact tannin. This has character and the promise of cellaring potential. The alcohol is surprisingly well integrated and supports the tasty fruit-forward, peppery-warm finish. Pair with seared, sesame-crusted tuna steak. (Louise Boutin)

South Africa: Red Wine

87
Ernie Els ‘Big Easy’ 2016
WO Western Cap $19.95 (220038) 14.0% alcohol
The ‘Big Easy’ refers to the South African, golf celebrity’s flawless, seemingly effortless golf swing. This multi-blend—60% shiraz, 20% cabernet sauvignon, 5% grenache, 3% mourvèdre, 7% cinsault, 5% viognier—reveals aromas of ripe black fruit—cherry, blackberry, plum—with green bell pepper and light floral notes in the background. The palate is charmed with a velvety textured rush of juicy black cherry adorned with dark chocolate and peppery flavours enhancing the smooth finish and aftertaste. It’s bold, easy to drink and pours nicely with a simple beef burger and all the fixings. (Louise Boutin)

France: Red Wine

89
Château Langlais 2010
AOC Puisseguin-Saint-Emilion $39.95 (463273) 13.5% alcohol
A 70% merlot / 30% cabernet franc blend of organically grown grapes fashioned this well-balanced, medium-full bodied red. Intriguing aromas of prune, leather, tobacco and mint interweave with dark berry fruit on the nose. It’s dry and firmly structured with delicious flavours of tart cherry, blackberry, earth and spice washing over the palate. The finish lingers with a nice balance of tasty fruit, ripe tannins and bright acidity. Enjoy with thyme- and rosemary-rubbed, grilled veal chops. (Lisa Isabelle)

88
Château Pech Redon ‘L’Epervier La Clape’ 2014
AOC Coteaux du Languedoc $22.95 (129965) 14.5% alcohol
Dark berry fruit and plum mingle with black licorice, spice, and black pepper on the expressive nose of this blend of 60% syrah / 40% grenache. Palate-coating flavours—blackberry, dark plum, dried herbs and baking spice—deliver a nicely-textured wash. Dry, full bodied, balanced with fine-grained tannin and moderating acidity, it finishes mid-plus length with a pleasant savoury, bitter herb aftertaste. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Marchand-Tawse Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2014

AOC Burgundy $31.95 (285601) 12.5% alcohol

Ripe red berry fruit, mixed spice and floral notes set the table for a bracing line of acidity streaking over the palate with great élan—red currant, passionfruit and pie cherry. This is mid-weight with good mouthfeel and persistent purity of fruit from cork pop to the last, lip-smacking drop. Fruit was sourced from vineyards in Marsannay, Nuits-Saint-Georges and Maranges. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: Red Wine

90
Fontanafreda ‘Eremo’ Langhe Rosso 2014
DOC Langhe Rosso $17.95 (454041) 13.0% alcohol
This traditional blend of Piedmonte—60% barbera / 40% nebbiolo—offers an inviting nose of red plum, prunes, dry fig with clove, tobacco and black pepper aromas. A rush of nicely balanced tart red plum and ripe blackberry flavours flood the palate leading the way to a dry, fruity-piquant finish. The use of small French and Slovenian oak casks before blending and additional ageing in large oak casks contribute provide character and softness to this medium-bodied, food-friendly red. It’s totally enjoyable now with slow-cooked, prune, pork roast. (Louise Boutin)

86
Castelli Del Grevepesa ‘Clemente VII’ Chianti Classico 2014
DOCG Chianti Classico $18.95 (421388) 14.0% alcohol
This 100% sangiovese uncovers ripe red cherry, licorice and dry oregano aromas. Subdued fruit flavours are replayed on the palate along with earthy notes and dry savoury herbs. This is medium-bodied with bright acidity and still-evolving tannin felt on the brief, dry finish. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside slow-simmered chicken cacciatore. (Louise Boutin)

89
Tommasi ‘Poggio Al Tufo Rompicollo’ 2015

IGT Toscana $17.95 (13755) 13.0% alcohol

A quiet nose of mixed field berry fruit and floral notes precede a rich, almost dense mouthful of tangy black currant and rich, ripe mulberry decorated with sweet vanilla and black licorice. It’s medium bodied and nicely textured with a long, balanced and bountiful finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside rare-grilled skirt steak. (Vic Harradine)

Portugal: Red Wine

87
Andreza ‘Reserva’ 2014
DOC Douro $16.95 (385849) 13.5% alcohol
The inky purple colour of this blend—touriga nacional, touriga franca and tinta roriz—hints at the concentrated nose. Aromas of dark berry fruit, Earl Grey tea, violet and spice with a dusty mineral note segue to palate flavours of blackberry, plum, spice and vanilla. This is dry, medium-full bodied and nicely textured with velvety tannins and bright acidity. It finishes with a tangy, fresh fruit aftertaste. This offers very good value and pours well with beef brochettes. (Lisa Isabelle)

Spain: White Wine

88
Castello Do Mar Albariño 2016
DO Rias Baixas $17.95 (488734) 13.0% alcohol
This 100% Albariño is from the north-west of Spain dishing up aromas of peach, green pear, pineapple and lime mingling with saline-mineral notes. A zesty rush of white grapefruit, green apple and honeydew melon flavours dazzle the palate persisting with bright balanced acidity on the enjoyable, mild-pithy finish and aftertaste. This is crisp, medium-light bodied and perfect with a seafood antipasto platter. (Louise Boutin)

Cheers, Vic, Louise, Lisa