Search

December 2, 2019 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights include:

There are many more wines reviewed after the Vintages Release wines with most now available in LCBO stores found under LCBO: Limited Time Discounts with wines discounted from $1 to $5 per bottle purchased (great opportunity to stock up for the Holidays) as well as New in LCBO Portfolio and new in Ontario Wineries.

There’s also a special feature of special consignment wines from the The Vine Agency with more to follow next newsletter. Enjoy!
Exceptional-value wine – a bonanza 23 of the 71 wines in this newsletter meet strict quality-price guidelines. The wines range from $12.65 to $18.95 and are easily identified throughout the newsletter via the value checkmark above with even more found after the Vintage Release wines. Strict guidelines? Click here.
95 points and over – One wine rang the 95 points and over bell. 2013 Tawse Winery Chardonnay Icewine earned 96 points @ $35.95 (200 mL) found under Limited Time Offers.
Lisa Likes – 2015 Beringer Vineyards ‘Quantum’ Red Blend earned 91 points @ $79.95 found under California: Red Wine; 2016 Fielding ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay earned 88 points @ $14.95 and 2016 Luigi Bosca Malbec earned 90 points @ $18.95 with both found under LCBO Limited Time Offers.
Louise Loves – 2017 Bachelder Niagara Chardonnay earned 90 points @ $24.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; 2015 Clos de Los Siete earned 90 points @ $23.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine; 2014 Louis M. Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon earned 91 points @ $34.95 found under LCBO Limited Time Offers.
Dave’s Delights – Castelli del Grevepesa ‘Clemente VII’ Chianti Classico 2015 earned 89 points @ $18.95 found under Italy: Red Wine.
Vic Picks – Trius ‘Traditional Method’ Brut Rosé Non-Vintage earned 92 points @ $32.95 found under Sparkling Wine; 2017 Closson Chase ‘Vineyard’ Chardonnay earned 92 points @ $29.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; 2018 Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Four Feathers’ earned 90 points @ $14.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; 2018 Jean-Max Roger ‘Cuvée Marnes et Caillottes’ Sancerre earned 92 points @ $31.95 found under France: White Wine; 2015 Culmina Family Estate Winery ‘Dilemma’ Chardonnay earned 91 points @ $31.95 found under Flagship Store Exclusive.

December 7, 2019 Vintages Release

Champagne

93
 Ruinart ‘R de Ruinart’ Brut Champagne Non-Vintage
 AOC Champagne $88.95 (189878) 12.5% alcohol
 Not your average Champagne, and not in your average Champagne bottle—it’s squat, distinctive, attractive. There’s a wonderful mélange of balanced-on-a-pin ripe fruit, acidity and mouthfeel. It opens with a surge of mousse-releasing aromas of floral and nutty notes before bathing the palate with textured, fresh, ripe fruit—pear, apple and nectarine—interwoven with lively, tangy lemon curd. It finishes crisp and refreshing. (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

89
 Featherstone ‘Cuvée Joy’ Sparkling Wine 2013
 VQA Twenty Mile Bench $34.95 (310334) 12.5% alcohol
 The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; keep a few on hand. Lively aromas of baking brioche, nutty notes and citrus are harbingers of a glorious explosion of fine-bead mousse when pouring followed by endless streams of tiny bubbles wending their way to top of the glass. Flavours of lemon curd, mineral notes and ripe apple and pear dominate the palate. It finishes in a blaze of delightful tang; crisp, clean and refreshing. A great way to welcome guests and you can continue serving with appetizers and lighter mains. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Flat Rock Cellars ‘Riddled’ Sparkling Wine 2017 is a blend of 61% pinot noir/ 39% chardonnay and was chosen from specially selected, hand-harvested blocks of estate vines. It was produced in the Traditional Method and whole-clustered pressed, neutral-oak barrel fermented then underwent an 18-month bottle fermentation and resting on its lees.

91
 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Riddled’ Sparkling Wine 2017
 VQA Twenty Mile Bench $34.95 (383315) 12.0% alcohol
 The lively fine-bead mousse crowns the medium-yellow hued nectar in the glass. Aromas of rising bread dough and lemon zest give way to a racy mouthful of Key lime and lemon curd underpinned by and infused with lip-smacking tang. It finishes with palate replays that are mouth-watering clean, crisp and refreshing. Pour as a welcoming wine or an aperitif to get gastric juices flowing or alongside Sole Meuniere. (Vic Harradine)

92
 Trius ‘Traditional Method’ Brut Rosé Non-Vintage
 VQA Niagara Peninsula $32.95 (184309) 12.0% alcohol
 As with most Trius wine, this is quite good. It’s flavourful, balanced, refreshing and offers a good price point when one considers the quality within. Alluring aromas of red berry fruit and leesy notes mingle with citrus on the nose of this deftly balanced sparkler. It dazzles the palate with strawberry and raspberry fruit flavours robed in piquant spice and excellent tang. The fine-bead bubbles and lengthy flavour-filled, lip-smacking finish speak to high-quality sparkling wine. A perfect welcoming wine to offer company. (Vic Harradine)

89
 Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé Non-Vintage
 New Zealand $22.95 (280172) 12.0% alcohol
 This attractive pink-hued sparkler is fashioned from 20% hand-harvested pinot noir and 80% low-yielding chardonnay, fermented in the Charmat, a.k.a. Cuve Close, method. It hustles from the bottle with an energetic mousse and aromas of red berry fruit and spice with hints of brioche. It delivers spirited and lively flavours of citrus and red currant interwoven with sweeter and riper cherry on the lip-smacking aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

89
 Belcanto Di Bellussi Prosecco Di Valdobbiadene Superiore Non-Vintage
 DOCG Valdobbiadene $19.95 (53215) 11.5% alcohol
 This is crisp, clean and refreshing with notes of minerality and lemon acidity streaking across the palate preceded by a quiet nose of crisp green apple and minerality. There’s a solid line of acidity throughout with lime and pineapple peeking through on the finish. A lovely welcoming wine or serve with lighter-styled appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

90
 Bachelder Niagara Chardonnay 2017
 VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (302083) 13.5% alcohol
 This trustworthy white wine delivers good value. An aromatic nose of peach with white flower and lactic notes introduces delicious flavours of fresh apricot, lemon curd, vanilla and a beautiful mineral layer completing the picture. Medium bodied with a creamy palate texture, it offers a delicious crisp, tangy and perfectly balanced finish. Delicious with smoked salmon blinis, decorated with red onion, capers and a dollop of crème-fraîche. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2017 Closson Chase ‘Vineyard’ Chardonnay was hand harvested from two estate, low-yielding vineyards—75% South Clos and 25% Churchside—then 100% barrel fermented in French oak with under 10% new.

92
 Closson Chase ‘Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2017
 VQA Prince Edward County $29.95 (148866) 13.3% alcohol
 This crowd pleaser offers a price-quality balance tipped wildly in your favour. Aromas of apple, pear and baking spice abound on the nose of this fabulous PEC chardonnay. It treats the palate to a balanced and beautiful, fruit-filled river of flavour with ginger root-infused apple along with wisps of sweet vanilla and Meyer lemon. It’s medium-plus bodied with generous mouthfeel accompanied by a monumentally long, delectable finish. Pour on its own after removing from refrigeration for 20 minutes or with roast chicken, turkey, pork or smoked duck breasts. (Vic Harradine)

90
 Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Four Feathers’ 2018
 VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (341586) 12.5% alcohol
 This incredibly popular aromatic white blend—61% riesling/18% gewürztraminer/13% sauvignon blanc/8% chardonnay—has a large following, it delivers in spades, vintage after vintage. Aromas of rosewater, lime and peach set the table for a smorgasbord of perfectly balanced, delicious palate flavours with Key lime, crisp green apple and lemon pie filling to the fore. It’s medium bodied, creamy smooth and lingers on the finish – balanced and mouth-watering good. Sip on its own or pour alongside pan-seared fish like salmon or trout, or thin-crust, lightly dressed three-cheese—brie, mozzarella, chèvre—white pizza. (Vic Harradine)

91
 Flat Rock Cellars ‘The Rusty Shed’ Chardonnay 2018
 VQA Twenty Mile Bench $26.95 (1552) 13.5% alcohol
 A light golden hue, it offers a cornucopia of aromas with baking spice, vanilla and bits of biscuit and caramel to the fore. It dazzles the palate with a gusher of smooth texture, medium-full body and plenty of palate flavours—red apple, crème caramel, piquant spice, oaky notes and tart grapefruit tang on the back palate and lengthy aftertaste. This has good bones and should improve even by the time it’s released; it needs only time to meld—and it’s very good value. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: 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)

California: Red Wine

91
 Beringer Vineyards ‘Quantum’ Red Blend 2015
 Napa Valley (362400) $79.95 14.5% alcohol
 This well-structured blend of predominantly cabernet sauvignon along with merlot, malbec, cabernet franc and petit syrah, was aged 20 months in French oak, 50% new, and an additional year in bottle prior to release. Aromas of plums, blackberry and blueberry mingle with graphite, leather tobacco and caramel notes on the nose before replaying on the flavourful palate. Dry, full bodied with a round texture and firm tannin, ripe dark fruit, spice and cocoa flavours linger on the extended finish. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
 Z. Alexander Brown ‘Uncaged’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
 California $21.95 (478628) 14.0% alcohol
 Dark-purple hued in the glass, aromas of espresso roast, baking spice, dark chocolate and dark cherry/berry fruit lead to a medium-full bodied, generously textured California cab. It spreads over the palate creamy smooth with flavours of cassis, kirsch liqueur and black cherry intertwined with chocolate and mixed spice. It finishes with replays along with ripe supple tannin. Aerate/decant a couple of hours before service. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

90
 Clos de Los Siete 2015
 Mendoza $23.95 (622571) 14.5% alcohol
 Famous Libournais œnologist, Michel Rolland, is behind this ruby-hued blend—58% malbec/23% merlot/10% cabernet sauvignon/8% syrah/1% petit verdot. The nose is complex with mature aromas of dry cherry, stewed plum, baking spice, licorice, burnt sugar and tobacco. A harmonious cocktail of fleshy sweet and savoury flavours aligned with aromas is showcased with cocoa notes and a perfect balance of fine tannin, acidity and fruitiness on the palate. This is full-bodied with good depth and the promise of longevity. Aerate/decant two hours and pour now to 2025 with pork loin stuffed with dried fruit. (Louise Boutin)

Chile: Red Wine

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)

France: White Wine

• The following 2018 Jean-Max Roger ‘Cuvée Marnes et Caillottes’ Sancerre was fashioned by the Roger family who trace their heritage back to the 17th C through a succession of wine-making Roger’s. This was autochthonous-yeast fermented and rested on its fine lees for several months then fined, filtered and bottled.

92
Jean-Max Roger ‘Cuvée Marnes et Caillottes’ Sancerre 2018
AOC Sancerre $31.95 (186667) 13.0% alcohol
Grassy and mineral notes mingle with citrus on the nose of this fabulous sauvignon blanc. A stream of crisp, refreshing ambrosia captures the palate with excellent tang, wisps of minerality, gooseberry and lemon-pie filling flavours. It’s medium weight with quite generous texture and showcases a balanced and beautiful lengthy finish. Pour with grilled calamari, or fish—sushi or cooked the way you like it. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

• The following 2016 Château Hauchat Fronsac was sourced from 100% merlot from premium vineyards—situated just west of Pomerol and St. Émilion—and produced by a family of eighth-generation, regional winemakers. The wine was matured 15 months in barrels—1/3rd new/1/3rd used one year/1/3rd used two years.

88
 Château Hauchat Fronsac 2016
 AOC Fronsac, France $17.95 (123489) 14.0% alcohol
 Charred toast, cedar and dark bramble berry fruit aromas provide segue for a medium-weight, balanced, smooth and creamy stream of crunchy red fruit—cherry, currant and cranberry—mingling with savory herbs and piquant spice. It finishes with racy acidity and red fruit replays on the juicy, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. This marries well with pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

89
 Castelli del Grevepesa ‘Clemente VII’ Chianti Classico 2015
 DOCG Chianti Classico $18.95 (421388) 14.0% alcohol
 The dark red colour of this wine is just beginning to show some tinges of orange around the edges. You’ll find intense aromas of moss, dark chocolate and cherry. It’s medium-full bodied, with deft balance of acidity on top of a foundation of evident but very approachable tannins. The blackberry flavours are highlighted with fascinating dry mineral notes. This is probably drinking at its best right now and can be enjoyed to 2020. Enjoy with spaghetti and meatballs. (Dave Isaacs)

LCBO Flagship Store Exclusive

• Fruit for the following 2015 Culmina Family Estate Winery ‘Dilemma’ Chardonnay was sourced from four-year-old, estate vines grown on Margaret’s Bench. Forty percent of the wine underwent malolactic conversion. All wine was then matured for 9 months before bottling—35% in new French oak barrel, 35% in used, and 30% in stainless steel.

91
 Culmina Family Estate Winery ‘Dilemma’ Chardonnay 2015
 VQA Margaret’s Bench, Okanagan Valley $39.95 (568204) 14.0% alcohol
 Alluring aromas of burnt butter, baked apple and nutty notes abound on the nose of this full-bodied, generously textured chardonnay. This showcases excellent tang and noticeable minerality. It streaks over the palate with a bracing line of tangy acidity carried on flavours of racy white grapefruit, crisp Granny Smith apple and high-toned saline/minerality. These replay on the monumentally long finish and aftertaste joined by piquant spice and pleasing wisps of oak. Pour alongside cedar-planked, grilled salmon topped with lemon slices, dill and garlic. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release Date: TBD

93
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Bo-Teek – Clone 327’ Cabernet Franc 2016
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $35.95 (669374) 14.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of ripe, rich fruit—black currant and dark cherry—interweave with peppery spice and savoury herbs. It envelops the palate with medium-plus bodied, fully textured, single-clone cabernet franc exhibiting a gusher of flavours with dark berry fruit—currant and raspberry—adorned with black Bing cherry, framed by excellent lip-smacking tang and underpinned by firm tannin. It showcases persistent purity of fruit, deft balance, firm structure and a monumentally long finish replaying palate flavours. Aerate/decant three hours before service. (Vic Harradine)

90
Broccardo ‘La Martina’ Barbera d’Alba 2018
DOC Barbera d’Alba, Italy $17.95 15.0% alcohol
This 100% Barbera opens with aromas of piquant spice, wisps of iodine and red berry fruit. It blankets the palate with a pleasing tang-laden stream of red and black currant decorated with grilled savoury herbs and plenty of nerve and pizzazz. It’s light-medium bodied with persistent tang and purity of fruit and a lengthy dry, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own or alongside meat lasagna or spaghetti Pomodoro. (Vic Harradine)

93
Broccardo ‘Il Giò Pi’ Nebbiolo 2018
DOC Langhe, Italy $20.95 14.5% alcohol
This is light ruby-hued in the glass, but don’t be fooled; it’s rich and complex on the nose and palate. Alluring aromas of floral notes, black plum and exotic incense provide segue to a dazzling gusher of robust palate flavour and tang with ripe bramble berry, fig and black Bing cherry nicely framed by excellent acidity and underpinned by ripe, soft tannin. It’s balanced on a pin and sports a long, luscious finish. You’ll search a long time to find better 100% Nebbiolo at this price. Pick up an armful or two. (Vic Harradine)

90
Caves de Rauzan ‘Le Noble - Cuvée Réserve’ 2018
AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 12.5% alcohol
This 80% merlot/20% cabernet sauvignon red blend was stainless steel and barrel-fermented then settled in stainless steel tank. This is rich and complex, mellow and smooth with a price-quality balance that tips well in your favour. Aromas of dark berry fruit and sprigs of wild herbs abound. It bathes the palate with black raspberry and dark cherry interwoven with mocha and hints of cassis. It’s balanced and beautiful showcasing charm, complexity and plenty of pizzazz. Stock up. (Vic Harradine)

89
Caves de Rauzan ‘Villotte’ 2018
AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 12.0% alcohol
This 70% merlot/30% cabernet sauvignon was fermented and allowed to settle in temperature-controlled stainless steel tank—it saw no oak. Fresh lively aromas of black currant, dark cherry and savoury herbs precede a wash of palate-caressing flavours with red currant and pomegranate intertwined with lip-smacking tang that persists through the mouth-watering finish along with wisps of ripe tannin. It’s light-medium bodied with no rough edges. Give it a go with pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

90
3 – Rings ‘It’s Magic’ Shiraz 2017
Barossa Valley, South Australia $17.95 14.9% alcohol
This hi-octane shiraz—almost 15.0% alcohol—wafts from the glass with alluring aromas of dark berry fruit—currant and raspberry—interlaced with mixed spice and grilled savoury herbs. It coats the palate with gusher of flavour—black currant jam, bittersweet dark chocolate and notions of kirsch liqueur. It finishes in a balanced, lengthy and warm finish with persistent palate-replays and hints of gamey bits. You won’t go wrong pouring it with oven-baked or barbecued back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2017 Puelles Gran Reserva is a red blend of hand-harvested 95% tempranillo and 5% garnacha, graciano, mazuelo that matured 24 months in 50% French oak and 50% American oak barrels.

92
Puelles Gran Reserva 2017
DOCa Rioja, Spain $25.95 14.0% alcohol
This delivers perfumed aromas of rose petals and leather and is absolutely delicious. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouthfeel as a gusher of flavour coats the palate and remain prominent in the finish and lengthy aftertaste—black plum and dark cherry decorated with peppery spice, hints of cassis and spice. This showcases deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and plenty of charm. (Vic Harradine)

89
Cantina de Soave ‘Perlit’ Spumante Brut Non-Vintage
DOC Garda, Italy 13.95 11.5% alcohol
This is light-yellow hued and brimming with alluring aromas—floral notes, tropical fruit and citrus. Gentle bubbles when poured, they carry palate flavours of green apple and ripe pear mingling with excellent lemony tang persisting through the finish. It’s quite delightful as an aperitif or when paired with light appetizers. The aftertaste has a slight peach-skin adornment. (Vic Harradine)

90
Cantina de Soave ‘Settecento 33’ Spumante Brut Non-Vintage
DOC Lessini Durello, Italy $13.95 12.0% alcohol
Fashioned from the autochthonous durella grape, flavours of freshly sliced strawberry and excellent citrussy tang mingle with the bubbly mousse in this gorgeous welcoming wine. This is dry, flavourful and finishes in a mouth-watering crescendo of palate replays. Don’t hesitate, pick up a few to keep on hand for unexpected guests. This is value-packed. (Vic Harradine)

90
Casa Vinicola Bosco Malera ‘Conte Priuli’ Prosecco Spumante Extra Dry Non-Vintage
DOC Prosecco, Italy $14.55 11.0% alcohol
This punches well above the price. Peach, pear and apple aromas abound. A lively mousse underpinned by racy tang and flavours of green apple and lemon drop candy captures the palate. There’s a hint of off-dry on the lingering balanced and beautiful finish and aftertaste. This pours well on its own and sublime when served alongside fish and seafood appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

91
Cantina de Soave ‘Perlit’ Prosecco Spumante Brut Non-Vintage
DOC Prosecco, Italy $14.95 11.5% alcohol
Aromas of straw and hints of floral notes provide segue to a delightful river of fruit-infused palate flavours with yellow peach, ripe Bosc pear and lemon citrus notes to the fore. There’s lots going on here with complexity, oodles of tang and plenty of ripe fruit flavours to provide balance. It finishes with more of the same… in a word, delicious. Pour with friends and a charcuterie or deli platter. (Vic Harradine)

89
Fattoria Le Torre ‘Guinzano’ Rosso 2016
DOC San Gimignano, Italy $16.95 14.0% alcohol
This red blend—70% sangiovese/15% cabernet sauvignon/15% merlot—opens with aromas of grilled mixed herbs and dark berry fruit. It blankets the palate with flavours of crunchy red fruit—pie cherry and currant—interwoven with earthy notes and wisps of mocha. It’s medium weight with good mouthfeel and perceptible grippy tannin—easily ameliorated with a two-hour aeration/decant—on the warm, dry finish. Pour alongside pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO Portfolio

89
Luigi Bosca ‘La Linda’ Malbec 2018
Mendoza, Argentina $12.95 (11927) 14.0% alcohol
This is exceptional value and approachable now, smooth and mellow with no rough edges. Aromas of dark chocolate and red berry fruit mingle with mixed spice and incense. It coats the palate medium bodied and tang-infused exhibiting flavours of racy pie cherry and hints of juicy black plum. This is crowd friendly and mouth-watering good from twist top to last drop. It finishes with racy acidity and good fruit flavour. Pour with pasta in tomato sauce or pasta arrabiata. (Vic Harradine)

89
Honoro Vera Rueda 2018
DO Rueda, Spain $12.00 (533224) 13.5% alcohol
In this wine, grape variety and appellation are both, ‘Rueda’. Honey–drizzled tropical fruit aromas abound on the noise. It rolls over the palate with replays of tropical fruit—melon and pineapple—intertwined with hints of lemon zest. This is medium-bodied with good mouthfeel and plenty to offer in the way of exceptional-value. Sip on its own before dinner or pour with pan-seared or grilled fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)

88
Humante Garnacha 2018
DO Navarra, Spain $12.65 (11705) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of mixed spice and red berry fruit introduce a light-medium bodied, light textured stream of palate flavours with ripe cherry and strawberry-flavoured Turkish delight confectionary to the fore. It’s light on its feet with a finish and aftertaste that’s redolent of cherry clafoutie. Pour with fruit flan or grilled ribs brushed with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

89
Honoro Vera Garnacha 2017
DO Calatayud, Spain $13.70 (440867) 14.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of red cherry, mocha and piquant spice provide segue to a balanced and beautiful wash of palate—bathing flavours—black bramble berry juicy black plum intertwined with savory notes, wisps of bittersweet chocolate and black licorice. This is medium weight with good mouthfeel and a lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside wings, burgers or meat-laden pizza. (Vic Harradine)

91
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Semi-Dry’ Riesling 2018
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (232033) 10.0% alcohol
The price-quality balance here tips wildly in your favour. Aromas of lemon and lime mingle with wisps of honey and mineral notes on the nose of this balanced-on-a-pin, light-medium bodied gem. It bathes the palate with nerve and verve cresting on a river of flavour—Key lime and Meyer lemon infused with lip-smacking tang and acidity. This is nicely textured, divine sipped on its own and sublime when poured alongside spicy Asian cuisine like butter chicken or pad Thai. (Vic Harradine)

90
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2017
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (669374) 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of floral notes, honeydew melon and citrus provide segue to a medium-bodied river of palate flavour with ripe pear and yellow plum interwoven with and balanced by mouth-watering lemon curd. This has persistent purity of fruit, textured mouthfeel and deft balance that are all showcased on the palate and lengthy, luxurious finish and aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared or grilled fish or seafood, roast chicken or roast pork. (Vic Harradine)

90
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2018
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (669374) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of musk melon and crème Brule waft easily from the glass. A gusher of medium-plus bodied, well-textured flavours capture the palate—honey-drizzled pear and lemon pie filling—then replay through the lengthy finish with an additional dollop of white grapefruit on the aftertaste. Give this a go with sushi or vegetable terrine. (Vic Harradine)

89
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Game Changer – Weinbauren Und Winzer’ Red 2018
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (457523) 12.5% alcohol
A portion of this red blend—71.3% cabernet franc, 28.7% merlot—matured 12 months in oak. Aromas of red berry fruit and grilled savoury herbs leap from the glass. It washes over the palate with peppery spice, racy acidity and tangy fruit flavour—red currant, pie cherry and cranberry. This is light-medium bodied, smooth and mellow with plenty of pizzazz. It finishes with a lengthy stream of palate replays. Pour with spaghetti Bolognese or spaghetti alla puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

89
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Kevin O’Leary’ Cabernet Merlot 2018
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (307744) 12.5% alcohol
This Bordeaux blend—38.8% cabernet franc/36.1% merlot/25.1% cabernet sauvignon—opens with aromas of wood smoke and grilled herbs. It washes over the palate with zingy acidity and a boatload of pizzazz underpinned by perceptible tannin decorated with red fruit flavour—pomegranate, currant and cherry. It finishes dry and fruity with plenty of charm. Pour with gourmet burgers, grilled steak or wings after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

88
Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet Franc 2017
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (594127) 12.5% alcohol
Tobacco, charred toast and forest floor aromas on the nose, it delivers a medium-weight, medium-textured wash of black bramble berry and oodles of tang and acidity racing over the palate with laser-like focus. The back palate, finish and aftertaste are flavourful and well balanced. This spent five-to-six months maturing in oak. Pour alongside your favourite pasta in mild tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

89
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Bo-Teek – Clone 214’ Cabernet Franc 2016
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $35.95 14.0% alcohol
Dark ruby-hued in the glass, aromas of mocha, floral notes and grilled savoury herbs waft easily. It blankets the palate with a tang-laden, tannin-laced flow of pie cherry and savoury notes persisting through the drying finish and aftertaste. It’s medium-plus bodied with plenty of texture and racy pizzazz. This cellar dweller will benefit and mellow from three years additional bottle maturation; pop corks 2023 to 2028. (Vic Harradine)

Consignment Wines

• Winecurrent’s Louise Boutin and Vic Harradine attended The Vine Agency wine tasting on November 25th, 2019. The tasting was held at the popular fine dining establishment, Beckta Dining and Wine on Elgin St. in Ottawa and was attended by many fine-dining owners and sommeliers—watch for these wines when next dining out. The following eight wines have been submitted by Vic, with Louise’s to follow next newsletter.

• These wines were selected from a carefully curated collection of fine wines via the LCBOs Consignment program with many not available at LCBO retail stores. Order and purchase arrangements are handled through Account Manager, Lauren Hayes-Van den Weghe at the following coordinates:

 • Order the following wines by the case—some 6 bottles, others 12—by contacting Lauren Hayes-Van den Weghe by email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by phone 613 240 3667 for restaurant, home or office delivery via The Vine Agency.

92
Cave Spring Cellars ‘Adam Steps’ Riesling 2017
 VQA Beamsville Bench $24.95 10.5% alcohol
Crafted from 40-year-old riesling vines from the unique ‘Adam Steps’ limestone-rich soil on the Niagara Escarpment, lifted aromas of floral notes and wisps of minerality waft easily from the glass. It races over the palate with steely resolve in a gusher of palate flavours with Key lime and crisp green apple to the fore interwoven with pit fruit—mango, peach and apricot—along with notes of minerality. This single-vineyard gem is medium bodied with good texture and a lengthy lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

93
Nik Weiss ‘Wiltinger - Old Vines’ 2017
Mosel, Germany $28.95 10.0% alcohol
Alluring wisps of petrol, citrus and floral notes billow from this value-packed, off-dry gem. An explosion of ambrosia captures the palate with balanced and beautiful, crisp and refreshing flavours—racy lemon-lime, blood orange and flinty/mineral notes are intertwined with ripe melon and white peach producing a magical sweet and tang sensation from cork pop to last drop. Gorgeous sipped on its own, sublime when paired with spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)

92
Domaine Corinne & Jean-Pierre Grossot ‘Les Forneaux’ ler Cru Chablis 2017
AOC Chablis ler Cru, France $53.95 13.0% alcohol
This Premiere Cru Chablis exhibits structure, finesse and persistent purity of fruit. It opens with crisp aromas of gunflint minerality and sharp lemon-lime providing segue to a laser-like line of flavour with racy citrus, green apple and Anjou pear appearing from first sip to last tip. It’s clean, crisp and tangy on the very lengthy finish and aftertaste. Connoisseurs and wine lovers like you and me will appreciate this alongside pan-seared, lemon-drizzled trout or smoked Lake Winnipeg Goldeye. (Vic Harradine)

91
Cave Spring Cellars Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage
VQA Niagara Escarpment $29.95 12.0% alcohol
When poured, a profusion of mousse builds on top of the yellow-tinged liquid teasing the nose with aromas of baking brioche and leesy notes. A towering tsunami wave of flavour builds on the palate showcasing a bracing line of tingling acidity expressed as lip-smacking lemon-lime and flinty minerality. Replays persist through the mouth-watering, clean and crisp finish. This is value-laden and the perfect bubbly with which to welcome your guests. (Vic Harradine)

91
Chateau Pesquie ‘Terrassess – Organic’ Rosé 2018
AOC Ventoux, France $46.95 1500 mL 13.0% alcohol
This is a tasty blend of 50% cinsault/40 % grenache/10 % syrah that captures your interest with its light-pink hue and aromas of red cherry and black plum. It’s light on its feet with good mouthfeel and excellent tang and plenty of pizzazz delivered via palate flavours of red currant and cranberry juxtaposed with sweet, ripe, freshly sliced strawberries. It’s deftly balanced and delivers a delightfully clean and refreshing aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared salmon, a deli platter or charcuterie board. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 2027 Cellars ‘King Street Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is highly perfumed on the nose, balanced and tasty, mellow and smooth on the palate, and lengthy, luxurious on the finish and aftertaste.

93
2027 Cellars ‘King Street Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2018
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $TBD 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of exotic incense, floral notes and red berry fruit precede a medium-bodied, nicely textured river of palate flavours with crunchy red berry fruit and pomegranate deftly balanced with black Bing cherry and hints of ripe black plum framed by excellent acidity and tang and supported by soft wisps of tannin. The finish and aftertaste replay palate flavours showcasing persistent purity of fruit. Owner/winemaker, Kevin Panagapka, once again hits a bullseye—Kudos! (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Prà ‘Morandina’ Valpolicella is from Graziano Prà, a true doyen when working with white Soave. Branching out, he’s certainly on track to make a similar mark with Valpolicella red—this is delicious. It’s fashioned from traditional Valpolicella grapes—corvina/corvinone/rondinella/oseleta—grown approx. 450m a.s.l.

92
Prà ‘Morandina’ Valpolicella 2018
DOC Valpolicella, Italy $31.95 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of red cherry and black plum interwoven with savoury herbs provide segue to a racy, tang-infused stream of pie cherry and pomegranate decorated with mixed herbs and framed by excellent acidity. This settled three to six months in large French oak (Alliers) casks, now fully integrated. This is medium weight and nicely textured with a mouth-watering replay of palate flavours on the finish and aftertaste along with hints of minerality and tannin. (Vic Harradine)

94
Odette Estate ‘Adaptation’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Napa Valley, California $108.95 14.5% alcohol
Rosewood, exotic spice and red berry fruit aromas abound on the nose of this certified organically farmed beauty. It rolls over the palate showcasing deft balance, firm structure, complexity and persistent purity of fruit. Palate flavours include black currant, dark cherry, mineral, mocha and herbal notes with oodles of crunchy, mouth-watering tang. It finishes dry and lengthy with palate-flavour replays and a dollop of still-evolving tannin. Patience will be rewarded, pop corks 2024 to 2029, or aerate/decant for a few hours before service. (Vic Harradine)

LCBO ‘Limited Time Offers’ - December 2, 2019 to January 5, 2020.

Regardless of the vintage you purchase from the LCBO, you’ll receive the discount shown for each bottle of wine reviewed below that’s purchased December 2, 2019 to January 5, 2020.

• You’ll receive $1.00 off the bottle shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

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)

• You’ll receive $2.00 off the price shown on each of the bottles shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

90
 Featherstone Sauvignon Blanc 2018
 VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (89011) 13.0% alcohol
 This exceptional-value gem was 50% barrel fermented and 50% stainless steel fermented then racked off its lees before the last fining. Aromas of floral notes, kiwi fruit and yellow peach aromas waft easily from this creamy-smooth, medium-bodied sauvignon blanc. It envelops the palate with a flavourful stream of Key lime, nectarine and lemongrass notes. There are no rough edges as it finishes smooth, dry, crisp and refreshing. Pour with pasta in creamy pesto sauce. (Vic Harradine)

90
 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted - White’ 2017
 VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (1578) 11.0% alcohol
 The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Rosewater, mixed spice, green apple and lime aromas abound on the nose of this gorgeous riesling/gewürztraminer/chardonnay blend. It bathes the palate medium bodied, creamy textured with a flavour-packed mouthful of grilled pineapple, Key lime pie and lemon curd. Palate replays dominate the lingering dry and crisp, lip-smacking finish. Sip on its own or pour with an array of dishes—roast chicken, spicy Asian or white pizza and more. (Vic Harradine)

• With the $2.00 discount, the following Malivoire Chardonnay will earn the exceptional-value checkmark

90
 Malivoire ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay 2018
 VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 (573147) 12.5% alcohol
 A shy nose of Granny Smith apple and hints of baking spice aromas provide segue to a delightful array of deftly balanced palate flavours with honey-drizzled apple interwoven with lemon curd and sweet Bosc pear that persists throughout. This is medium weight, nicely textured and well balanced with a good seam of tang, persistent purity of fruit, plenty of charm and a delightfully lingering finish. It also offers a price-quality ratio tipped well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)

• With the $2.00 discount, the following Vineland Estates wine will earn the exceptional-value checkmark

90
 Vineland Estates ‘Elevation’ St. Urban Vineyard Riesling 2018
 VQA Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (38117) 10.0% alcohol
Aromas of mandarin orange, honey-drizzled pit fruit and whiffs of fresh ginger abound on the nose of this flavourful, exceptional-value, iconic riesling that was sourced from some of the oldest riesling vines in Ontario. A bracing wash of tangy lime cordial and lemon curd bathe the palate persisting through the very lengthy, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. It’s medium-bodied with good texture and pours well with baked ham dotted with cloves, or spaetzle with grilled or pan-fried bratwurst. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wine

• You’ll receive $2.00 off the price shown on each of the bottles shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

90
Francis Coppola ‘Diamond Collection Ivory Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon
 California $24.95 (521021) 13.5% alcohol
 Wood smoke and toasty oak mingle with ripe dark fruit—mulberry, bramble berry and juicy cherry on the nose of this meaty, delectable California Cab. It’s full bodied and fully flavoured flaunting rich, concentrated and luscious flavours of spice-laden black Bing cherry and briary berry garnished with dark chocolate and cassis. The finish lingers with gorgeous replays, lip-smacking tang and a supple tannin base. (Vic Harradine)

92
 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Baco Noir 2016
 VQA Ontario $24.95 (461699) 13.5% alcohol
 Wood smoke, gamy notes and mocha aromas billow from the nose before spilling onto the palate with wild abandon with flavours of black currant jam, ripe black cherry and black licorice coating the palate interwoven with baking spice, kirsch liqueur and balancing tang. This is medium-plus bodied, loaded with value, fully flavoured and generously textured with good balance and a boatload of charm. Pour with wild game, hearty stew and grilled meat—lamb kebabs, sausage, burgers, steak. (Vic Harradine)

90
 Luigi Bosca Malbec 2016
 Mendoza, Argentina (452672) $18.95 13.8% alcohol
 This well-structured malbec delivers a medley of expressive aromas—dark cherry and plum, sandalwood, vanilla, and burnt sugar. A dense core of dark, ripe fruit is garnished with sweet vanilla, baking spice and earthy flavours on the palate. Dry, medium-full bodied and nicely-weighted with velvety tannins and mouth-watering acidity, succulent plum and vanilla flavours resonate through the persistent finish. Enjoy alongside grilled skirt steak with chimichurri sauce. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The trademark for the following Meiomi Pinot Noir is—regardless of vintage—‘it doesn’t taste much like Pinot Noir’; and this turns some people away. If you expect a pinot noir to taste like pinot noir, the Meiomi may not be for you. However, if you like rich, jammy red wines and don’t care much if it’s zinfandel, cabernet sauvignon or pinot noir, you will want to give the following serious consideration.

88
 Meiomi Pinot Noir 2017
 Monterey/Santa Barbara/Sonoma, California $21.95 (130138) 13.7% alcohol
 Ripe, black and red fruit and espresso roast aromas swirl from this medium-plus bodied, full-Monty, well-textured red. It envelops the palate with a river of sweet jammy flavours—black currant, ripe mulberry and Bing cherry—intertwined with kirsch liqueur, sweet vanilla and toasty/oaky bits. Palate flavours persist through the mocha-laden finish and aftertaste with a slight bit of tang. Pour with grilled pork back ribs brushed with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• You’ll receive $2.75 off the price on the bottle shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

89
 Sella and Mosca Cannoneau Di Sardegna ‘Riserva’ 2012
 DOC Cannoneau Di Sardegna, Italy $17.95 (425488) 13.5% alcohol
 This Cannoneau, a.k.a. Grenache or Garnacha, showers ripe fruit throughout along with good structure, intensity and balance. Aromas of anise, red berry fruit and wood smoke presage a steady wash of racy fruit flavour with red currant and pomegranate to the fore. It’s nicely balanced with a lengthy, dry finish layering on notions of dark coffee and spice. (Vic Harradine)

• You’ll receive $3.00 off the price shown on the bottle shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

• Established in Napa Valley for over 80 years, Louis M. Martini specializes in cabernet sauvignon produced from premium vineyards in Napa and Sonoma counties.

91
 Louis M. Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
 Napa Valley, California $34.95 (232371) 15.4% alcohol
 The nose is inviting with ripe dark-fruit aromas and intense delicious licorice and vanilla notes. A silky, juicy wash floods the palate with ripe blackberry, blueberry and cassis flavours decorated with baking spice and replay of licorice trailing in the lengthy, delicious finish. This full-bodied blend is 90% cabernet sauvignon, 5% petite sirah, 5% petit verdot, offering excellent balance, polished tannins, good structure and at least ten years of cellaring potential. This is good value and certainly a crowd pleaser at a BBQ gathering. (Louise Boutin)

Other Wines and Spirits

• You’ll receive $2.00 off the price shown on each of the bottles shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

90
 Featherstone ‘Premium Cuvée Joy’ Sparkling Rosé 2016
 VQA Twenty Mile Bench $29.95 (450700) 12.5% alcohol
 For ease of opening, this is sealed under crown cap. This méthode traditionelle, 100% pinot noir was hand harvested, whole-cluster pressed and rested on its lees for 12 months before disgorgement. It bubbles over with frothy mousse and a delightful array of barely off-dry palate flavours with bright red currant, ripe strawberry and oodles of tang to the fore. It’s medium weight and showcases a monumentally lengthy lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour with an assortment of appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

91
 Gérard Bertrand ‘Cote des roses’ Rosé 2016
 AOP Languedoc, France (373985) $18.95 12.5% alcohol
 Strawberry aromas interweave with spice and floral notes introducing a tapestry of tangy flavour—ripe, red cherry, ripe plum and flecks of red pepper jelly blanket the palate infusing the long, balanced and beautiful finish. This is medium weight and nicely textured with a price-quality balance tipped well in your favour. Pour chilled with a mixed charcuterie platter—Genoa salami, shaved ham, soft, smelly cheese, spicy black olives and baguette, (Vic Harradine)

91
 Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine 2015
 VQA Ontario $21.95 (522672) 200 mL 12.0% alcohol
 This lighter-styled beauty keeps the final sip as fresh and lively as the first—it’s not cloying or over the top and that’s not a common occurrence for vidal icewine. A nicely balanced flow of palate-bathing apricot jam and white nectarine meet nirvana with a healthy dollop of lemon zest and racy blood orange on the palate and persists through the lingering finish and aftertaste. This pairs particularly well with Stilton on water crackers or pan-seared foie gras. (Vic Harradine)

• You’ll receive $2.00 off the price shown on each of the bottles shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

91
Tawse ‘Spark – ‘Limestone Vineyard’ Riesling Sparkling Wine 2014
 VQA Twenty Mile Bench $20.95 (370361) 11.5% alcohol
 This punches well above the price—it’s newly certified organic/biodynamic, single-vineyard sourced, made in the traditional method of Champagne, vintage dated, simply delicious. Lighter styled and lip-smacking good, it’s the perfect welcoming wine or aperitif. Aromas and flavours of crisp green apple and racy lemon abound. It starts and finishes clean, crisp and refreshing. Pick up a few to have on hand. Versatile, serve on its own or with freshly shucked oysters, ceviche or sushi. (Vic Harradine)

92
 Reif Vidal Icewine 2013
 VQA Niagara River, Niagara Peninsula $24.95 200 mL (544791) 10.0% alcohol
 Apricot, truffles and honeyed pear on the nose, this coats the palate with a glorious wash of peel marmalade, apricot and piquant spice along with notions of lemon curd and a fruit bowl of honey-dipped tropical fruit. It cleans up nicely on the back palate and aftertaste with good, balancing acidity and tang to the rescue allowing following sips to be as enjoyable as the previous. Pour with aged Gouda or pan-seared foie gras. (Vic Harradine)

88
 Santa Margherita Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Superiore Brut Non-Vintage
 DOCG Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Superiore, Italy $19.95 (687582) 11.5% alcohol
 Aromas of green apple and minerality herald a crisp, clean and refreshing stream of tangy lemon-lime, orchard fruit and peach skin. There’s good texture and an abundant mousse of fine-bead bubbles. The quintessential, stylish welcoming wine, serve to guests as they arrive and pair with hand-around or sit-down appetizers. This is a Vintages Essentials product, always available in select stores. (Vic Harradine)

• You’ll receive $3.00 off the price shown on each of the bottles shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

91
13th Street Winery Cuvée Brut Rosé Non-Vintage
 VQA Niagara Peninsula $26.95 (147504) 12.5% alcohol
 This ‘traditional method’ sparkling Rosé underwent its second fermentation in the bottle and is a blend of 56% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay and a splash of Gamay. Aromas of strawberry, baking bread and red licorice introduce an elegant mousse of fine-bead bubbles infused with an array of racy flavour—red currant and cranberry mingle with peach skin and grilled, lightly sugared pink grapefruit. All in all, balanced and crisp, good value and lip-smacking delicious. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Non-Vintage Chateau des Charmes Sparkling Wine ‘Méthode Traditionelle’ was recently disgorged—after spending 18 months on its lees—guaranteeing you freshness and vitality. It’s a chardonnay/pinot noir blend with premium, estate-grown, hand-picked fruit and handled with loving care.

92
 Chateau des Charmes Sparkling Wine ‘Méthode Traditionelle’ Non-Vintage
 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $25.95 (224766) 12.5% alcohol
 This provides terrific value; stock up. It offers a lively nose of baking brioche and lemon-lime aromas. A profusion of fine-bead bubbles make a substantial mousse when poured and continue in endless thin streams making their way to the top of your glass. Almost off-dry flavours of apple and pear on the palate are joined by a bracing line of lemon curd and Key lime persisting through the mouth-watering finish—clean, crisp and refreshing. (Vic Harradine)

90
 Château des Charmes Vidal Icewine 2016
 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $25.95 200ml (565861) 9.5% alcohol
 This is the perfect after-dinner treat on its own or with dessert and … it’s the ideal size for two or three people to enjoy. Aromas and flavours of mango-infused treacle, candied-peel marmalade and racy lemon curd interweave on the nose, palate and delectable finish and aftertaste—this is absolutely delicious. It’s also the perfect hostess gift presented in an attractive box. (Vic Harradine)

89
 Kittling Ridge Vidal Icewine 2015
 VQA Ontario $39.95 (563247) 375 mL 10.3% alcohol
 Mango, melon, honey and apricot aromas dominate the nose of this über sweet, luscious icewine. A full-Monty tsunami wave of texture and flavour blankets the palate with baked apple, peach marmalade, ripe mango and wisps of lemon chiffon pie enveloping the palate with gusto. It finishes with replays, sweet and unctuous. This is dessert in a glass; serve on its own as the only course for dessert or pair with chunks of Stilton and water biscuits. (Vic Harradine)

96
 Tawse Winery Chardonnay Icewine 2013
 VQA Niagara Peninsula $35.95 (443739) 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)

• You’ll receive $5.00 off the price shown on each of the bottles shown below purchased between December 2, 2019 and January 5, 2020, regardless of vintage.

89
 Inniskillin Vidal Icewine 2015
 VQA Ontario $49.95 (388306) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
 This vidal icewine from Niagara expresses itself without reservation starting with lifted aromas of apricot, lemon and earthy notes. It blankets the palate with a textured wash of apricot tart, lime-soaked guava and orange marmalade. Lemon zest and grilled pineapple provide semblance balance on the finish and aftertaste. Serve well chilled on its own or paired with fruit flan or blue cheese. (Vic Harradine)

Get Bonus AirMiles

• The following wine will gain you 8 bonus AirMiles for each bottle purchased from December 1, 2019 to January 4, 2020, regardless of vintage.

91
 Pierre Sparr Gewürztraminer 2018
 AOC Alsace, France $17.95 (373373) 13.5% alcohol
 A dominant and alluring aroma of rosewater provides segue to this spice-laden generously textured gem. It dazzles the palate with piquant spice carried on a medium-plus bodied river of off-dry palate flavours—lychee nut, lemon pie filling and grapefruit zest—that cleans up nicely on the mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. This is crisp and refreshing, making it a great dance partner for quiche Lorraine, pan-seared fish or baked ham. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wines will gain you 10 bonus AirMiles for each bottle purchased from December 1, 2019 to January 4, 2020, regardless of vintage.

90
 Robert Oatley ‘Signature Series’ Chardonnay 2016
 Margaret River, Western Australia $19.95 (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 well in your favour. Pour with roast bird and all the extras. (Vic Harradine)

89
 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
 DO Colchagua, Chile $19.95 (322586) 14.0% alcohol
 Ripe, juicy, red cherry/berry fruit, exotic spice and grilled savory herb aromas abound. It cuts a broad, complex swath across the palate with a nicely textured, medium-plus bodied flow of bramble berry and juicy black cherry mingling with sweet vanilla, baking spice, cracked black pepper and a wisps of soft, ripe tannin. The balanced finish and aftertaste is robust, lengthy and mouth-watering good. (Vic Harradine)

90
 Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti 2010
 DOCG Chianti, Italy $15.95 (111641) 13.5% alcohol
 Aromas of sandalwood, black plum and pipe tobacco provide segue for a smoothly textured wash of briary berry and spice interweaving with passion fruit and wisps of fine-grained tannin. This is fruity, balanced and medium bodied. It finishes with more of the same—juicy with sweet and tang. Pour this value-packed gem with all your favourites—steak, burgers, wings and pizza. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic