February 27, 2019 Newsletter

The 2019 California Wine Fair Announces its Tour Schedule

It’ll be the hottest ticket in town and there are NO tickets sold at the door!

Winecurrent subscribers receive a $5 discount on each ticket purchased for Ottawa (April 26) and/or Toronto (April 29) consumer tastings. Use promotional code: cwfwinecurrent

It often sells out, but never disappoints the crowds who attend. It’s arguably Canada’s best, and best-value, wine tasting. Tickets are NOW on sale! One entry price covers unlimited tasting samples from hundreds of wines along with a few nibblies. Spittoons are provided at each station in this walk-around tasting and you’re encouraged to use them and arrange for commercial or public transportation rather than driving. Please drink in moderation; never drink and drive.

In its 40th year, Canada’s largest Wine Fair Tour showcases some of the finest wines from the Golden State with over 450 wines from more than 150 wineries offered. There are trade and consumer tastings. 

Learn here about how, where and when to attend and to purchase your ticket(s).

Newsletter Highlights Include:

• Exceptional-value wine  – 7 of 46 wines in this newsletter that will be available in the LCBO February 16, 2019 meet strict quality-price guidelines. The wines range from $13.95 to $18.95 and are found throughout the newsletter identified via the value checkmark above. Strict guidelines? Click here.
• 95 points and over – no wine in this newsletter earned 95 points or over.
• Dave’s Delights - 2017 Featherstone Canadian Oak Chardonnay earned 90 points @ $21.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; 2015 Scattered Peaks Cabernet Sauvignon earned 92 points @ $59.95 found under California: Red Wine; 2015 Château de Barbe Blanche earned 91 points @ $29.95 found under France: Red Wine; 2011 Sartori Corte Brà Amarone della Valpolicella Classico earned 92 points @ $53.95 and, of course, all his exceptional-value reviews.
• Louise Loves – 2015 Guinzano San Gimignano Rosso earned 92 points @ $17.95 found under Italy: Red Wine.
• Vic Picks – 2016 2027 ‘Falls Vineyard’ Riesling earned 91 points @ $18.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; 2015 Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Cabernet/Merlot earned 92 points @ $24.95 and 2017 Southbrook Vineyards ‘laundry vineyard’ organic/biodynamic Gamay earned 92 points @ $24.95 with both found under Ontario: Red Wine.

Vintages Release: March 2, 2019

Sparkling Wine

91
13th Street ‘Premier Cuvée’ 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $34.95 (142679) 12.5% alcohol
This elegant sparkler is an equal blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. It was produced using the traditional method, with a second in-bottle fermentation and on-the-lees ageing lasting 48 months. Aromas of lees, cream and apple leap up from the glass. There’s a light bodied mouthfeel as flavours of yeast, apple and lemon peel cut through the palate with zippy acidity. The finish is refreshing, with a slight bite of tang. This pairs very well with a dish of lobster and a side of fries. (Dave Isaacs)

89
Domaine de Vaugondy Brut Vouvray
AOC Vouvray $19.95 (154567) 12.5% alcohol
This 100% chenin blanc sparkler is produced in the traditional method that was previously known as, in the method of Champagne. There are lots of apple and yeasty aromas on the nose with the palate light bodied and pleasantly fizzy. There are flavours of apple every step of the way. A nice sparkler to raise for a toast, or to enjoy at a party with the pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres. (Dave Isaacs)

89
Abbazia Moscato d'Asti 2017
DOCG Moscato d'Asti $13.95 (265397) 5.5% alcohol
This sweet sparkler is as lively and entertaining as a spring garden. It’s almost clear in colour, with an intense nose of clover, nectar and rosewater. It’s medium-full bodied with a juicy sweetness, a gentle amount of fizz and flavours of gala apple and canned pear. This is lovely to drink on its own, and will also pair well with dessert; try New York-style cheesecake. (Dave Isaacs)

Ontario: White Wine

91

2027 ‘Falls Vineyard’ Riesling 2016

VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (294041) 10.0% alcohol

Aromas of sharp spice, racy lime and ripe pear billow from this just-barely yellow-hued, single-vineyard riesling. It explodes on the palate with a gusher of sweet-tinged lime cordial and crisp green apple framed by electrifying tang and acidity. The dry, mouth-watering, lip-smacking finish lingers luxuriously. This sips well on its own and truly shines served with a baguette and charcuterie board. (Vic Harradine)

90
Featherstone ‘Canadian Oak’ Chardonnay 2017
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (149302) 13.5% alcohol
This impressive chardonnay is not only made from grapes grown in Featherstone’s own Niagara vineyard, it’s fermented using the “wild” yeasts found in the vineyard and aged in barrels constructed from nearby oak trees. The nose is a complex medley of oak, butter, cream, and apple with a hint of banana. It has a full bodied and creamy mouthfeel with great balance of acidity and flavours of green apple and freshly cut wood. There is a slight bite reminiscent of grapefruit pith, on the finish. This should evolve delightfully over the next few years. Enjoy with roast chicken dinner. (Dave Isaacs)

88
Konzelmann ‘Late Harvest’ Gewürztraminer 2016
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (392357) 14.0% alcohol
This well-priced off-dry white wine has sweet aromas of lychee fruit, honey, and candied lemon. It’s full bodied on the palate with a delicate sweetness that carries flavours of citrus peel, peach, and pear. There is a nice balance of acid that helps deliver a pear-flavoured finish. This will be a great match for spicy Thai basil chicken. (Dave Isaacs)

88
Lundy Manor ‘Proprietor's Blend’ White 2017
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (579961) 12.0% alcohol
This wine had a very light golden appearance with a floral nose punctuated with hints of clover, nectar and tinned pear. It is full bodied and lightly sweet on the palate with flavours of apple and pear. The finish is fruity and cuts through a zing of acidity. This’ll pair nicely with a dish of curried vegetables. (Dave Isaacs)

Canada: Red Wine

92  

Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Cabernet/Merlot 2015

VQA Short Hills Bench $24.95 (395855) 13.5% alcohol

Lifted, lively aromas of cedar, piquant spice and juicy black plum introduce a spirited wash of pie cherry and passionfruit juxtaposed nicely with cassis and dark berry fruit adorned with sharp spice, dark bittersweet chocolate and wisps of ripe, fine-grained tannin. This is structured and balanced with purity of fruit and lots of pizzazz. It’s medium-plus weight with good mouthfeel and a long finish showcasing palate replays. Aerate/decant for a couple of hours pouring with a thick cut of prime beef grilled rare to medium rare. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2017 Southbrook Vineyards ‘laundry vineyard’ organic Gamay was 40% crushed and destemmed while the 60% balance was whole-cluster fermented with indigenous yeasts and underwent natural malolactic conversion completing 25 days of fermentation on skins then gently pressed and barrel matured for 7 months in small, oak, 225 L barriques.
92

Southbrook Vineyards ‘laundry vineyard’ organic/biodynamic Gamay 2017

VQA Vinemount Ridge $24.95 (646323) 13.0% alcohol

This is ProCert certified—organic and biodynamic, suitable for vegans and vegetarians. The lifted nose of red and black berry fruit, mocha and wisps of smoke waft easily from the glass of this medium bodied, nicely textured and deftly balanced gamay. It envelops the palate with a delicious wash of dark Bing cherry and red currant flavours decorated with excellent acidity, good stucture and exquisite balance. Purity of palate-flavoured fruit persists through the long, mineral-infused finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

88
Vieni Briganti Reserve 2014
VQA Ontario $18.95 (419440) 13.5% alcohol
This is a blend of two hybrid grapes, marechal foch and baco noir. It’s opaque dark purple in colour with a nose of vanilla and musty wood and just a hint of barnyard. This is full bodied with a smooth mouthfeel, easy tannins and a juicy acidity that delivers flavours of tart strawberry and sour cherry. It’s a good match for grilled Portobello mushroom burgers. (Dave Isaacs)

California: White Wine

88  

Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc 2015

Napa Valley $24.95 (96016) 12.5% alcohol

This light-on-its-feet sipper is almost clear in the glass. Aromas of grassy notes, piquant spice and citrus dominate the nose transitioning nicely into palate flavours of lemon curd, peppery bits and tropical fruit. These replay on the aftertaste along with edgy mineral tones. Delicious poured on its own, it pairs well with pan-seared fresh fish or grilled calamari. (Vic Harradine)

90
Girard Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2015
Russian River Valley $39.95 (276675) 13.9% alcohol
This beauty of a chardonnay spent 11 months in French oak barrels, 35% new. There’s a very slight green tinge to its golden-yellow hue. The nose has aromas of oak, green leaves and tropical fruit. The palate is full bodied with an acidity that is wonderfully refreshing and juicy delivering flavours of honeydew melon and lemon. A pleasure from start to finish, this will continue to evolve nicely over the next few years. Pair with pork tenderloin roasted with apples. (Dave Isaacs)

California: Red Wine

89
The Ringleader Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
California $17.00 (639922) 13.5% alcohol
There are lots of smoky oak aromas on the nose along with hints of cherry and dry leaves. It’s medium bodied on the palate with smooth tannins and a decent amount of tang. Juicy flavours of cherry and vanilla are well supported by tannins persisting through to the finish. This will keep another 5 years and will be well received at a casual backyard barbeque. (Dave Isaacs)

89
Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
California $19.95 (38034) 13.8% alcohol
This is medium dark-cherry red with aromas of oak, vanilla, strawberry and raspberry on the nose. It is medium-full bodied with a good balance of acidity. The tannins are perceptible but well integrated and provide a firm framework for flavours of raspberry and vanilla. The finish is long and laden with tang. It’s well matched with a hearty serving of pasta and meatballs. (Dave Isaacs)

90
Black Stallion Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Napa Valley $42.95 (256768) 14.5% alcohol
This is a big bold blend of 80% cabernet sauvignon, 11% petite sirah, 3% merlot, withl 6% made up of ‘other varieties’. It’s dark cherry in appearance with musty aromas on the nose accompanied by hints of clove, blackberry jam and vanilla. The palate is full bodied with smooth tannins and flavours of raspberry and vanilla with a suggestion of mocha lingering in the finish. This can keep in the cellar through to 2023, and will pair wonderfully with some medium-rare beef tenderloin with a black pepper sauce. (Dave Isaacs)

90
Bootleg Red 2015
Napa County $49.95 (462820) 15.0% alcohol
This is one for the cellar. This is comprised of 53% merlot,/21% petite sirah/20% syrah/4% cabernet sauvignon/1% cabernet franc/1% petit verdot. It has an inky plum, almost opaque, appearance. Aromas of cherry, vanilla and mint mix pleasantly on the nose. It’s full bodied with a perceptible sensation of alcohol and firm tannins that give it a chalky, dry mouthfeel. Underneath the tannins are flavours of cherry and vanilla, hinting at the payoff this will provide after some time in the cellar. Drink after 2022 and then enjoy with grilled ribs slathered with spicy BBQ sauce. (Dave Isaacs)

91
Orin Swift Papillon 2015
Napa Valley $89.95 (478768) 15.5% alcohol
This hefty wine—in an equally hefty bottle—is a Bordeaux-style blend with a dark purple plum appearance. The nose is varied and complex with aromas of cherry, vanilla, fresh mint, black pepper and clove. It’s full bodied with strong but smooth tannins that reveal cola-like flavours of sour cherry and vanilla. It finishes with beautiful, juicy freshness. Lug it down to your cellar and leave there for 5 years or enjoy it sooner—decant for two hours before serving—alongside grilled medium-rare steak. (Dave Isaacs)

92
Scattered Peaks Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Napa Valley $59.95 (639500) 14.5% alcohol
This spectacular blend of 93% cabernet sauvignon, 4% merlot, 1% petit verdot, 1% cabernet franc, 1% malbec should have a special place in your cellar. The nose flows with aromas of cherry, vanilla, spicy pepper and smoky wood. It’s full bodied with a strong wallop of tannin, but the overall mouthfeel is smooth and juicy with a very pleasing balance of acidity. The cherry and dark chocolate flavours linger wonderfully persisting through the mouthwatering finish. Keep this in your cellar until at least 2022, then enjoy it anytime over the following 10 years. (Dave Isaacs)

90
Stags' Leap Winery Merlot 2015
Napa Valley $48.95 (655399) 14.5% alcohol
This is a beauty of a blend made from 86% merlot, 6% petite sirah, 5% malbec, 1% petit verdot, with the remaining 2% a mix of ‘other red varietals’. It has an opaque dark cherry appearance, with aromas of cherry, vanilla, and dry sawdust on the nose. This is medium to full bodied with strong but velvety smooth tannins and a mouth-watering balance of acidity. The flavours are tar with prominent hints of cherry and raspberry melding for a long lingering finish. This will be drinking best for the next 4 years. Enjoy it paired with tomato ravioli. (Dave Isaacs)

Argentina: Red Wine

89
Luigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Mendoza $18.95 (128629) 13.8% alcohol
This 100% cabernet sauvignon was sourced from hand-picked grapes and aged 14 months in American and French barrels. It’s brick red in colour, with a slight cast of orange. There are musty aromas on the nose with notes of wet wood and moss and hints of cherry jam. This is medium-full bodied with smooth well-evolved tannins and a nice balance of acidity. The fruit flavours fade gradually to a pleasant vanilla finish. Drink before 2022 paired with grilled pork sausages. (Dave Isaacs)

Chile: White Wine

90
Montes ‘Alpha’ Chardonnay 2016
Aconcagua Valley $19.95 (390203) 13.5% alcohol
This delightful chardonnay has just a light touch of oak with 35% spending 12 months in French oak barrels. This allows fruity and floral characteristics to step forward with aromas of pear, clover, honey and lime peel on the nose then flavours of pear and apple on the palate. It’s medium-full bodied with a juicy balance of acidity. The mouth-watering finish is highlighted with flavours of lemon curd. This will pair wonderfully with a serving of battered fish and, twice-fried chips. (Dave Isaacs)

Chile: Red Wine

90
Montes ‘Alpha’ Merlot 2015
Colchagua Valley $19.95 (22228) 14.0% alcohol
This smooth and easy drinking red is a blend of 90% merlot/10% carmenère. It has a medium, brick-red appearance with aromas of cherry, dry leather and freshly cut wood on the nose. There’s a full bodied mouthfeel with juicy acidity and velvety well-integrated tannins. Flavours of tart strawberry and vanilla linger pleasantly through the finish. This is drinking nicely right now, and should keep in the cellar through to 2022. Enjoy with a plate of tomato basil chicken. (Dave Isaacs)

87
Casas del Bosque ‘Reserva’ Carmenère 2017
Rapel Valley $15.95 (205872) 13.5% alcohol
An inexpensive daily quaffer, this has aromas of green wood, leather and spice on the nose. It’s medium-full bodied with well integrated tannins and flavours of sour cherry. The finish is tart and dry. This pairs nicely with spaghetti and meat sauce. (Dave Isaacs)

Australia: Red Wine

90
Wynns Coonawarra Estate ‘The Siding’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Coonawarra $23.95 (333229) 13.7% alcohol
This is dark cherry, almost opaque, in colour. There are aromas of vanilla, cherry, and dried herbs on the nose, which replay pleasantly to the palate. It’s full bodied and smooth on the palate with an attractively juicy acidity and moderate easy-going tannins. This is well paired with a roast beef dinner. (Dave Isaacs)

90
Jip Jip Rocks Shiraz/Cabernet 2017
Padthaway, South Australia $16.95 (186114) 14.5% alcohol
There’s a lot of value in this cabernet sauvignon and shiraz blend. The nose is spicy with hints of cloves and pepper aromas. The palate is full bodied and smooth with a nice balanced acidity, well integrated tannins and flavours of vanilla and pie cherry. The finish is pleasant and fruity with notes of dried herbs. Enjoy with a hearty serving of chili con carne. (Dave Isaacs)

South Africa: White Wine

86  

Tussock ‘Jumper’ Chenin Blanc 2017

WO Western Cape, South Africa $12.95 (480764) 13% alcohol

If you’re looking for an enjoyable white that really delivers on the price-quality balance, this is a good place to start. It’s pale-gold coloured with a slight tinge of green showing around the edges. On the nose, you’ll find aromas of peach overlaying background notes of mineral. Although dry overall, the peach flavours give an impression of ripeness. Sip on its own or pair this alongside baked chicken breasts with marmalade glaze. (Dave Isaacs)

France: White Wine

89  

Baron de Hoen Gewürztraminer ‘Réserve’ 2017

AOC Alsace, France $19.95 (377721) 12.5% alcohol

Rosewater, floral notes and exotic spice aromas leap from the glass. Off-dry, sensuously textured mouthfuls of apricot, spice-laden yellow plum, red licorice and lemon pie filling coat the palate persisting through the lingering and luxurious finish and aftertaste. Give it a go with spicy Asian cuisine like tandoori chicken or spicy vegan potato curry, or baked ham dotted with cloves and basted with maple syrup. (Vic Harradine)

90
Domaine du Pré Baron Sauvignon Touraine 2017
AOC Loire $18.95 (107128) 13.5% alcohol
This elegant sauvignon blanc has a pale gold, straw-yellow appearance. The nose is a floral medley, like a summer meadow, with hints of freshly cut grass. It’s medium bodied on the palate with refreshing acidity and flavours of lemon and peach. Towards the finish there is a very pleasant slight bite of vegetal notes . Pour this alongside poached sole with lemon and herbs. (Dave Isaacs)

88
Versato Pinot Grigio 2017
DOC Alto Adige $23.95 (631648) 13.5% alcohol
Bright and very-pale gold in appearance, this has floral aromas of clover and fruity aromas showcasing honeydew melon on the nose. It’s medium-full bodied with decent balance of acidity and juicy flavours of lime that linger through to the finish. A refreshing summertime sipper to enjoy with summertime salad. (Dave Isaacs)

France: Red Wine

88
Château la Croix de Queynac 2015
AOC Bordeaux Supérieur $16.95 (138636) 13.5% alcohol
This is a well-priced Bordeaux blend of 70% merlot and 30% cabernet sauvignon. It’s dark cherry in colour with a slight cast of brownish brick. The nose is somewhat musty, with aromas of dry leaves and smoke. It has a medium-to-full bodied mouthfeel, with flavours of sour cherry and smoke. The tannins are smooth but come on strong in the finish and aftertaste. This will keep in the cellar until 2023, but can be enjoyed today, with some grilled medium-rare steak, if you decant it for about an hour before serving. (Dave Isaacs)

91
Château de Barbe Blanche 2015
AOC Lussac Saint-Emilion $29.95 (48066) 15% alcohol
This is a beautiful blend of 80% merlot/20% cabernet franc. It’s dark cherry. almost opaque in appearance with a delightful nose full of dry leather dried red fruit, and white pepper. It’s full bodied on the palate with pleasing acidity. Juicy flavours of cherry mixed with smooth and velvety tannins linger pleasantly in the finish. Enjoy with smoked BBQ chicken and vegetables. (Dave Isaacs)

90

Château Mont-Redon Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2015

AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $49.95 (959627) 14.5% alcohol

This is a hand-harvested complex blend of southern-Rhône varietals—grenache, syrah, mourvèdre, cinsault, counoise, muscardin and vaccarèse from fourth-generation winemakers. It shows a lovely rich nose of black cherry, black plum, dry herb, forest floor and fennel seeds. Aromas are replayed on the palate in a velvety cocktail of flavours. The chewy tannins and sustained acidity show-up mid- palate to frame a warm, dry, cherry, savoury and spicy finish. This medium-full bodied red can be enjoyed now with a two-hour aeration/decant before service and will reach its apogee between 2020 and 2025. (Louise Boutin)

89
Château d'Arsac 2015
AOC Margaux $48.95 (468975) 13.5% alcohol
This is a blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon and 40% merlot. It’s dark cherry in appearance with aromas of green wood, pepper, and raspberry. It’s medium-full bodied on the palate with juicy acidity and a firm but smooth belt of tannins. Flavours of wood, vanilla and raspberry fade toward the finish. Just reaching its drinkable age, it should evolve beautifully over the next 5 to 10 years. If you want to enjoy it today, decant for two hours before serving. (Dave Isaacs)

91
Pierre Amadieu Romane-Machotte Gigondas 2015
AOC Gigondas $28.95 (17400) 14.5% alcohol
This is a great blend of grenache and syrah. It’s just beginning to develop a slight orange cast to its dark cherry appearance. You’ll find enticing aromas of autumn leaves, cherry and pepper on the nose, followed by flavours of cherry and blackberry on the palate. It’s full bodied with perceptible, but well-integrated tannins. The acidity lingers to showcase a lip-smacking tangy finish. Drinking nicely now—you’ll want to decant it for an hour before drinking—it will keep in your cellar through to 2025. (Dave Isaacs)

91
Pesquié ‘Édition 1912m’ Ventoux 2016
AOC Ventoux $17.00 (636159) 14.5% alcohol
This exceptionally-priced blend of 70% grenache and 30% syrah also contains traces of cinsault and carignan. It’s dark plum in appearance almost opaque, with an interesting nose of dried herbs, cherry, white pepper, and dark chocolate aromas. It’s full bodied with a pleasant balance of acidity and a significant punch of tannins. Fruity sensations of sour cherry linger on the finish. You could drink it today, after a two-hour decant, but the longer you leave it in your cellar—up to 2025—the greater your reward. (Dave Isaacs)

Italy: Red Wine

89
Marchesi di Barolo Barbaresco 2014
DOCG Barbaresco $37.95 (155408) 13.5% alcohol
This has a reddish-orange colour and a nose with aromas of cherry jam and dry wood. It’s medium bodied on the palate with good balance of acid and flavours of raspberry and pepper. The tannins are well evolved but are still perceptible, especially on the finish. This’ll keep in the cellar for another five to seven years. Enjoy with a plate of spaghetti Bolognese. (Dave Isaacs)

91
Mazzei Ser Lapo Riserva Chianti Classico 2015
DOCG Chianti Classico Riserva $23.95 (288530) 13.0% alcohol
This gorgeous red is a blend of 90% sangiovese with 10% merlot. It has a nose with aromas of cherry jam and dried fruit with background wisps of old wet wood and earth. It’s medium-full bodied on the palate with a great balance of acidity that carries flavours of Montmorency cherry and raspberry. The tannins have a firm grip on the finish making this a good candidate for your cellar for the next 5 years. Enjoy now with a serving a stewed lamb with tomatoes. (Dave Isaacs)

• The following 2015 Guinzano San Gimignano Rosso was originally tasted May 6, 2018 by Vic Harradine. It was tasted again this week by Louise and it has mellowed considerably from the further eight months of bottle maturation. Don’t miss this.

92
Guinzano San Gimignano Rosso 2015
DOC San Gimignano Rosso $17.95 (480665) 14.0% alcohol
This is an attractive deep-ruby hued blend of 70% sangiovese/15% cabernet sauvignon/15% merlot. Smoky at first, it then shows beautiful aromas of ripe dark cherry, violet, balsamic reduction and a hint of caraway seed. It fills the palate with an ample, mellow stream of dry cherry and blackberry flavour with a layer of savoury herb and saline note emerging on the medium-long, delicious finish. Fully integrated alcohol and fine, acceptable tannin give this very approachable medium-full bodied red character to be sipped on its own or pair with slowly simmered osso buco. Enjoy now to 2022. (Louise Boutin)

89
Rubesco Rosso di Torgiano 2015
DOC Rosso di Torgiano $19.95 (368548) 14.5% alcohol
Sourced from Umbria, a neighbouring region of Tuscany, this is a blend of sangiovese and a Tuscan native grape—colorino—primarily used for its deep colouring and structure. Bright fruit aromas dominate the nose—red cherry and raspberry—along with hints of fresh rose and spicy cinnamon. A soft mouthfeel carries flavours of tart cherry, pomegranate, crunchy cranberry and mineral notes wrapped in fine-grained tannin and well-integrated alcohol. Easy to drink, this medium-full bodied red offers a tangy, dry, fruit-forward finish, It pours well with pizza topped with sun-dried tomato. (Louise Boutin)

90
Lungarotti Rubesco Sangiovese/Colorino 2015
DOC Rosso di Torgiano $19.95 (368548) 14.5% alcohol
This excellent blend of sangiovese and colorino provides very good quality at an attractive price. It’s fermented in stainless steel vats before spending one year ageing in oak casks. There are enticing aromas of cherry and vanilla on the nose with spicy hints of nutmeg. It has a full-bodied mouthfeel with juicy acidity and strong but approachable tannins. Tart flavours of raspberry and cherry linger in the juicy finish. It’s well paired with aged hard cheese such as cheddar and parmesan. (Dave Isaacs)

92
Sartori ‘Corte Brà’ Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2011
DOCG Amarone della Valpolicella Classico $53.95 (225540) 15.5% alcohol
This is an elegant blend of 50% corvina veronese, 30% corvinone, 15% rondinella, 5% oseleta. It has an opaque dark cherry appearance with an overall orange-hued tinge. The nose is a medley of smoked meat, dry leather, cloves and dried sage. The mouthfeel is full bodied and smooth with a wonderful balance of acidity and significant but well evolved tannins. Flavours of cherry and dry wood linger in the strongly tannic finish. Carefully decant this wine before serving with herb-rubbed roast rack of lamb. (Dave Isaacs)

Spain: Red Wine

89
Finca del Marquesado Crianza 2015
DOCa Rioja $17.95 (638759) 14.0% alcohol
A vibrant blend of 70% tempranillo, 25% garnacha and 5% graciano, it has a medium. red-brick colour. The nose expresses jammy aromas of dried fruit with hints of wood. It’s medium bodied on the palate with significant smooth tannins and a good balance of acidity. Flavours of dried red fruit last through to the finish, though are eventually dominated by the tannins. This will keep in the cellar for another 5 years and can be enjoyed now or later with grilled medium-rare steak. (Dave Isaacs)

89
López de Haro Crianza 2015
DOCa Rioja $16.95 (377481) 13.5% alcohol
This wine is a blend of 90% tempranillo, 7% garnacha and 3% graciano. There’s a slight orange hue cast over its medium red colour. Aromas of raspberry and blueberry jam greet you on the nose. On the palate it’s medium bodied with a pleasant acidity and dry, well-integrated tannins. Flavours of red berry and vanilla fade in favour of vanilla in the finish. Keep this in your cellar through to 2023 or enjoy sooner with a platter of aged hard cheese. (Dave Isaacs)

90  

Luis Cañas Reserva 2012

DOCa Rioja $29.95 (334094) 14.5% alcohol

This red blend—95% tempranillo with bits of garnacha, mazuelo and graciano—showcases a toasty/smoky nose with leather, cedar and black plum aromas. The low-yield production shows good fruit concentration on the silky-textured palate with flavours of red cherry, black plum and hints of vanilla lingering on the finish. Rioja ‘Reserva’ regulations require three-years ageing, with at least one year in oak barrel—it brought character and longevity to this full-bodied gem. Drink now through 2022 with cured meat and smelly, strong-flavoured cheese. (Louise Boutin)

Upstream in Winecurrent

Vintages Release Date: TBD, 2019

89
Hunawihr Kuhlmann-Platz ‘Vieilles Vignes’ Pinot Gris 2015
AOC Alsace $20.95 (224204) 12.0% alcohol
This delightful gris has a light straw-yellow colour with a slight tinge of green. There are aromas of grapefruit and citrus peel on the nose joined by flavours of melon and clementine on the palate. It’s medium-to-full bodied with a mouth-watering acidity that delivers a fresh, lip-smacking, juicy finish. Enjoy with a serving of orange and fennel salad. (Dave Isaacs)

89
Domaine Autrand Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2016
AOC Côtes du Rhône-Villages $15.95 (200030) 14.0% alcohol
This blend of 70% grenache and 30% syrah is dark cherry in colour. Aromas of blackberry, strawberry, and vanilla are present on the nose. It is medium-full bodied on the palate with firm, but well-integrated tannins. Flavours of sour cherry and raspberry persist through the finish. It will keep in the cellar through to 2026. Pair with grilled rack of lamb. (Dave Isaacs)

Cheers, Dave, Louise, Lisa, Vic