September 13, 2020 Newsletter
Newsletter Highlights:
- Lisa Likes – Beringer Vineyards Napa Valley Chardonnay earned 89 points @ $22.95 (includes LTO discount) found under Limited Time Offers.
- Louise Loves – 2018 Santa Ana ‘La Mascota’ Chardonnay earned 93 points @ $16.95 found under Argentina: White Wine; Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache @ $14.95 (includes LTO discount) found under Limited Time Offer
- Vic Picks – 2017 Closson Chase ‘Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2017 earned 91 Points @ $34.95 found under Ontario: Red Wine; 2018 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Baco Noir earned 93 points @ $24.95 found under Ontario: Red Wine; 2018 Vicente Faria ‘Gloria - Reserva’ earned 91 points @ $16.95 found under New in Vintages
- Exceptional-value wine
– Many wines earned the coveted icon. They’re found throughout the newsletter: 1) in the September 22, 2020 Vintages Release and following the release in 2) New in Vintages 3) Upstream in winecurrent and 4) and, especially here, in the Limited Time Offers at the very end of the newsletter… Happy hunting!
Vintages Release: September 19, 2020
Fortified: Spirits
92
Tawse Dry/White Vermouth
Product of Canada $23.15 (17200) 750 mL 18.5% alcohol
Vermouth was once considered a medicinal aid to digestion, hence its popularity as an aperitif. It’s also widely used in cocktails e.g. Martini, Manhattan and others. Aromas of citrus, pear and mixed herbs and spice introduce a mouthful of sweet pear and apple along with hints of cinnamon and licorice and a delightful bite of bitters on the monumentally lengthy aftertaste. Connoisseur or novice should find this a treat. (Vic Harradine)
Fortified Wine: Port
92
Offley ‘10 Year Old Tawny’ Port
DOP Douro, Portugal $26.95 (297788) 20.0% alcohol
From cork pop to last drop this is reasonably priced and offley good. Piquant spice, caramel and spirits’ aromas abound. A gorgeous array of hi-toned, sweet-tinged flavours coat the palate with sweet vanilla, aromatic bitters, toffee and mixed spice dominant. It’s velvety smooth and generously textured with unctuous flavours replaying on the lingering finish. Pour with consommé, spice cake or crème brûlée. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: Icewine
92
Reif Vidal Icewine
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)
Sparkling Wine
• The following Non-Vintage Cygnus Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava is, like all Cava, produced Méthode Traditionnelle—aka in the method of making Champagne with the 2nd fermentation in the bottle you purchase—as it is decreed in their wine laws that all Cava must be produced in this manner. This is a prime example of a value-laden sparkling wine.
90 
Cygnus Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava Non-Vintage
DO Cava, Spain $17.95 (352856)11.5% alcohol
This Méthode Traditionnelle, sparkling, organic gem was produced from the holy trinity of Cava grapes—xarel-lo 40%, parellada 30% and macabeo 30%. Lifted aromas of apple and pear interweave with mint and wisps of piquant ginger heralding flavours of apple, mineral/slate and strawberry wreathed in lemon curd and toasty notes. This has good mousse and a delightfully refreshing, lip-smacking aftertaste—certainly a cut above the norm. Pour with steamed mussels or pan-seared fish. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: Red Wine
• The following 2017 Closson Chase ‘Vineyard’ Pinot Noir was sourced from two premium estate vineyards—90% South Clos, 10% Churchside—then fermented in a large oak fermenter and matured eighteen months in French oak barrel, less than 10% new.
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Closson Chase ‘Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2017
VQA Prince Edward County $34.95 (145888) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of mixed spice, beetroot and dark ripe cherry waft easily from this PEC pinot. Red berry and passionfruit palate flavours interweave with tangy pie cherry and wisps of drying tannin. It’s medium weight with very good mouthfeel and plenty of mouth-watering acidity on the back palate and aftertaste. Aerate/decant a couple of hours pouring with duck confit or tourtière. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2018 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Baco Noir is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO stores.
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Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Baco Noir 2018
VQA Ontario $24.95 (461699) 13.0% alcohol
An opaque purple-black in the glass, this Reserve baco offers aromas of charred toast, rich dark berry fruit and gamy bits. It rolls over the palate in delicious waves of sweet-tinged, rich ripe flavours of cassis, black plum and ripe mulberry interlaced with savoury herbs and great pizzazz. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouthfeel and a long, balanced and delectable finish. The price-quality ratio skews well in your favour… pick up an armful. (Vic Harradine)
Argentina: White Wine
• The following 2018 Santa Ana ’La Mascota’ Chardonnay was bunch selected and hand harvested into small bins then further destemmed with berry selection. Must was cooled to 10 °C and controlled-temperature fermentation was held to 15 °C for 20 days. It underwent malolactic conversion and 30% sur lie before maturing for nine months in French and American oak barrels then filtered and bottled.
93
Santa Ana ‘La Mascota’ Chardonnay 2018
Cruz de Piedra, Maipú, Mendoza, Argentina $16.95 (126870) 13.5% alcohol
Keep an eye out for this exceptional-value cool-climate chardonnay. Delicate pear aromas are surrounded with Meyer lemon zest, marzipan and a touch of nutmeg. Expect similar elegance on the palate with a textured flow of orchard fruit flavours, complemented with slightly toasted brioche, lemon curd and chalky minerality adding dimension to the tasty dry finish. Pour this bargain gem alongside shrimp pasta in a light creamy/lemony sauce. (Louise Boutin)
Australia: Red Wine
• The following 2017 Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Clare Valley - Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented in original winery fermenters allowing for careful control of skin maceration plus colour and tannin extraction with some parcels left an additional two weeks to ensure good structure. Wine was gently pressed into French oak barrels for malolactic conversion then matured a further 12 months in primarily one- to four-year-old French oak barrels with only 10% new.
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Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Clare Valley - Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Clare Valley, South Australia $19.95 (744235) 14.0% alcohol
Rich, lively aromas of red and black cherry/berry fruit interweave with piquant spice and wisps of white pepper. It spreads over the palate medium-plus bodied, value-packed, deftly balanced and generously textured. Palate flavours of ripe black bramble berry and crunchy pie cherry mingle with delightful tangy acidity and fine, soft tannin. Good to go now and the next five or so years; give it a go with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)
Upstream in winecurrent
Vintages Release: TBD 2020
White Wine
• The following 2019 Cantina di Soave ‘Cadis’ Pinot Grigio was hand harvested from 100% pinot grigio relatively early in September to preserve as much fresh acidity as possible. It was then fermented cool without skins and transferred to stainless steel tanks gently by gravity, no pumps were utilized. Remove from your cooling unit twenty minutes before serving to capture the delicate aromas zesty flavours.
90
Cantina di Soave ‘Cadis’ Pinot Grigio 2019
DOC Delle Venezie, Italy $15.95 12.0% alcohol
A lovely delicate melange of fresh aromas—pear, honeydew melon and white flower—meets round texture and zesty flavours—pink grapefruit, lemon rind— on the palate. This is a serious pinot grigio with excellent body, a good dose of fruitiness and tang, balanced with a savoury trait in the dry finish. Delicious to sip on its own but it will be excellent at the table with fish tacos, baked lemon-butter cod or roast chicken. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2019 Giotti Pinot Grigio was sourced from 100% pinot grigio fruit.
90
Casa Vinicola Bosco Malera ‘Giotti’ Pinot Grigio 2019
DOC Delle Venezie. Italy $16.95 11.5% alcohol
Aromas of floral and citrus notes waft easily from the glass. It blankets the palate with a surge of white grapefruit and near-ripe pineapple riding a wave of nicely textured acidity and tang. Palate flavours persist through the finish and aftertaste decorated with lip-smacking tang and plenty of pizzazz. Give this a go with grilled or pan-seared fish or mussels steamed in cream, garlic, leeks and white wine or your favourite sushi. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2019 Provolo ‘Costa del Monte – Bianco Veneto was sourced from 70% garganega/20% chardonnay/10% müller-thurgau grapes. It underwent a cold soak on skins for 12 hours at 7 °C before fermentation carried out in stainless steel tanks for 18 days at controlled temperatures between 13 to 15 °C.
90
Provolo ‘Costa del Monte – Bianco’ Veneto 2019
IGT Veneto, Italy $16.95 12.5% alcohol
A couple of swirls coax lively aromas of nectarine, yellow plum and golden delicious apple along with flinty-minerality. A full-Monty flow of apple, pear and lemon curd flavours capture the palate—nicely balanced, with good mouthfeel and lots to like. It finishes in a mouth-watering tang—clean, crisp and refreshing. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pour alongside a cheese tray with Brie, Gouda and Manchego or with roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2018 Domaine Grand Roche Sauvignon Blanc is an oddity in that it hails from St. Bris, an AOC appellation within Burgundy and it grows both sauvignon blanc and sauvignon gris. This wine was sourced from 100% sauvignon blanc vines that were 30-years-old at harvest. The winery practises sustainable viticulture using no herbicides. It was wild-yeast fermented, underwent natural malolactic conversion and aged on fine lees at 23 °C for 12 to 14 months in stainless steel tanks.
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Domaine Grand Roche Sauvignon Blanc
AOC St. Bris, Burgundy, France $18.95 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of savoury herbs and citrus notes form on the nose prior to a medium-bodied, nicely textured wash of flavours bathing the palate—Myer lemon, ripe pineapple and sweet ripe Mirabelle plum to the fore. This is deftly balanced with good balance of fruit flavours, tangy acidity and lengthy, lingering, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. What’s not to like? Pick up a few for drinking over the next 12 or so months. Pour alongside olive-oiled arugula under a generous crumbling of chèvre. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2017 Cave Vinicole Cleebourg Gewurztraminer was sourced from the winemaking area of Cleebourg in the AOC Alsace region in France. A slow and gentle pressing of grapes, cold settling, alcoholic fermentation in a thermoregulated vat and filtration of base wine on tangential filter coalesce producing this off-dry gewürztraminer.
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Cave Vinicole Cleebourg Gewurztraminer 2017
AOC Alsace, France $17.95 13.5% alcohol
The medium-gold nectar in the glass signals its age while exotic spice, rosewater and floral aromas beguile on the flirtatious nose. A medium-full bodied, fully textured fountain of flavours capture the palate with sharp ginger, off-dry honeyed pear and lychee fruit to the fore. There’s a classic gewürztraminer citrussy bite on the delectable finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside your favourite Asian dish: tandoori chicken, General Tso’s chicken or pad Thai. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2019 Siddùra ‘Spèra’ Vermentino hails from the north-east coast of Sardinia, sourced from granite soils that have since weathered to sandy granitic soils in vineyards at 300 meters above sea level. Spèra translates to ‘beam of light’ in the local dialect. Grapes are handpicked and gently pressed followed by a brief maceration and alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks maturing for a few months on fine lees. It then rests for a month in bottle before release. It’s an outstanding example of premium Vermentino with a price-quality ratio skewed in your favour.
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Siddùra ‘Spèra’ Vermentino 2019
DOCG Vermentino di Gallura, Sardinia, Italy $28.95 (11216) 13.5% alcohol
Light-gold hued in the glass, it offers up exotic aromas of honey, ripe pear and notions of marzipan. The palate’s treated to an explosion of palate flavours—lemon chiffon pie, white grapefruit, piquant spice and Delicious apple—carried along on a wave of medium-full bodied, fully textured ambrosia. It ends with palate replays on a lengthy, luxurious finish and aftertaste—crisp, clean and refreshing. Give this a go with milk-marinated scallops, pan-seared in butter along with bok-choy. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2019 Valpanera ‘Ca’del Borgo’ Pinot Grigio is sourced from 100% Pinot Grigio grapes that were gently pressed with a separation of free-run must, then fermented at a controlled temperature of 18 °C and settled in stainless steel tanks.
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Valpanera ‘Ca’del Borgo’ Pinot Grigio 2019
DOC Friuli, Italy $15.95 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of delicate floral notes, yellow plum and citrus abound. It bathes the palate with a delightful stream of refreshing flavours with lemon curd, ripe Mirabelle plum and wisps of minerality to the fore. This is balanced-on-a-pin, medium bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel and plenty of tang and pizzazz followed by a lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour with your favourite fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)
Red Wine
• The following 2018 Fattoria La Torre ‘Rosso delle Chiacchere’ is a blend of 45% cabernet sauvignon/35% merlot/20% sangiovese undergoing 15 days fermentation on skins in concrete tanks with daily delestage at 20 °C. It then matured 12 months in 225L French oak barrique and a further eight months in bottle before release.
92
Fattoria La Torre ‘Rosso delle Chiacchere’ 2018
IGT Toscana, Italy $16.95 14.0% alcohol
This delicious red blend will benefit from at least two hours of aeration/decant to soften the alcohol presence both on the nose and palate and reveal all its beauty. Its profound nose of dry cherry, prune, tobacco, balsamic reduction and a whiff of smoke is truly enchanting. On the palate, a soft wash of dry fruit flavours combined with bright cherry notes is quickly caught up with fine grippy tannin, earthy notes and savoury character persisting in a warm lengthy and astringent finish. This exceptionally well-priced, medium-full bodied gem has a few years of cellaring potential but if opened now, slow-simmered beef short-ribs served over creamy polenta will make a great pairing. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2019 Château Maison Noble ‘St-Martin’ is a merlot/cabernet sauvignon blend sourced from 30-year-old vines. It had hot pre-fermentation maceration in stainless steel and concrete tanks. It was then aged in stainless steel tanks.
89
Château Maison Noble ‘St-Martin - Bordeaux’ 2019
AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 13.5% alcohol
This presents with a youthful nose of crunchy cherry, ripe strawberry and an interesting vegetal note in the backdrop. It flows easily on the palate with flavours of red cherry, tangy cranberry and raspberry combined with a red bell pepper note leading to a fresh, dry, fruity and savoury finish. This is an uncomplicated and very satisfying red to enjoy with gourmet burgers or red sauce pasta. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2019 Provolo ‘Tenuta Ca’Nove’ Valpolicella is a blend of hand-harvested 85% corvina/15% rondinella fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature for 20 days then aged 6 months in concrete tanks.
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Provolo ‘Tenuta Ca’Nove’ Valpolicella 2019
AOC Valpolicella, Italy $17.95 12.5% alcohol
Appealing aromas of red berry fruit, black plum and tobacco waft freely. A sweet-tinged river of delectable flavour envelops the palate with black currant, dark cherry and mulberry galore. This is über-friendly with creamy-smooth texture, deft balance and plenty of charm and pizzazz. It finishes with more of the same—lively and fresh, tangy and refreshing. Pour alongside pasta puttanesca or lasagna. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2019 Alberto Bartali Chianti was sourced from 80% sangiovese/20% canaiolo vines harvested late September, 2019. It was vinified with two daily pump-overs at a controlled 28 °C and two weeks maceration on skins. After racking and malolactic conversion, it was kept on its lees for one to two months then bottled 12 months after harvest and released to market two months later.
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Alberto Bartali Chianti 2019
DOCG Chianti, Italy $17.95 12.5% alcohol
Heady aromas of exotic spice, pipe tobacco and cherry/berry fruit abound on the nose. It envelops the palate with a tang-laden shower of palate flavours including passion fruit, red cherry and an underlying base of still-evolving tannin. It’s mid weight with good mouthfeel and plenty of tangy acidity throughout. Aerate/decant for a couple of hours pouring with manicotti, spaghetti Bolognese or lasagna. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2019 Caves de Rauzan ‘Font Maine’ is a blend of 80% merlot/20% cabernet sauvignon and is accredited Sustainable Winegrowing. It underwent Thermovinification followed by aging in stainless steel tanks. Caves de Rauzan is a cooperative made up of over 300 growers.
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Caves de Rauzan ‘Font Maine’ 2019
AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 13.5% alcohol
This red Bordeaux blend shows charming aromas of ripe cherry, mixed berry compote, kirsch liqueur and a hint of cinnamon. A soft and juicy flow of dark fruit flavour treats the palate along with a nice tannin structure and beautiful red fruit acidity. The absence of wood contact has preserved all the purity of fruit yet offering a superbly balanced young medium-bodied red, rushing a second sip. This über-affordable crowd-pleaser is delicious on its own or paired with grilled steak or gourmet artisan sausages. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2019 Caves de Rauzon ‘Villotte’ is accredited Sustainable Winegrowing and is a cooperative made up of over 300 growers. It’s a blend of 70% merlot/30% cabernet sauvignon vinified in stainless steel vats under Thermovinification with the intent of highlighting the fruity character of a young wine.
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Caves de Rauzan ‘Villotte’ 2019
AOC Bordeaux, France $15.95 13.5% alcohol
This shows a youthful bright, medium-ruby shade with purple hues and smells like freshly crushed mixed berry and white bread crumbs with a whiff of fresh rose and spice notes on the second nose. It travels the palate easily with delicious crunchy red fruit and blackberry flavours joined with medium tannin and a delicious raspberry tanginess, turning slightly peppery in the dry persistent enjoyable finish. This is a lovely young red that will shine alongside charcuterie board or carrot beef stew. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2019 Château Maison Noble ‘St-Martin – Bordeaux Supérieur’ was sourced from the best plots and is a blend of 25-year-old vines of 60% merlot/30% cabernet sauvignon/10% cabernet franc. Fruit was cold macerated for 24 hours then warmed post maceration for malolactic fermentation. It matured in 30% French oak barrels and 30% a mix of stainless steel and cement vats.
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Château Maison Noble ‘St-Martin – Bordeaux Supérieur’ 2019
AOC Bordeaux Supérieur, France $17.95 14.0% alcohol
This purple-shaded blend introduces an attractive nose—sweet dark cherry, ripe blackberry, milk chocolate, pipe tobacco and hints of kirsch liqueur. It caresses the palate with a silky textured flow of juicy dark fruit to the fore, morphing into a more rustic mouthfeel with fine-grained yet noticeable tannin, bright acidity, earthy notes and a mix of dry savoury herb defining the persistent pleasant finish. This is medium-full bodied with excellent alcohol integration offered at an unbeatable price. Pour alongside stuffed Portobello mushrooms or aged cheese. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2019 Cantine Bellini Chianti is a blend of hand-harvested 75% sangiovese/10% colorino/10% canaiolo/5% merlot that underwent controlled temperature fermentation 20-25 ° in stainless steel tank with automatic punching down and pumping over the cap. It then spent at least 18 days macerating on the lees and underwent malolactic fermentation before ageing four to six months in stainless steel tank.
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Cantine Bellini Chianti 2019
DOCG Chianti, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
Fragrant aromas of black raspberry, cassis and grilled savoury herbs introduce a balanced and beautiful gusher of palate flavours with dark juicy cherry and black currant intertwined with mixed spice, excellent tang and mild herbs. It showcases good balance, persistent purity of fruit, depth and concentration of delicious flavours along with a medium-body, a lingering finish and great pizzazz. Give this a go with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2019 Provolo ‘Gino – Rosso’ was sourced from 60% corvina/20% corvinone/20% rondinella fruit fermented in stainless steel tanks for first 10 days at 25 to 27 °C then for the final 15 days at a cooler 22 to 25 °C. Malolactic fermentation was spontaneous then it matured for 6 months in wooden casks and a further 3 months in bottle before release.
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Provolo ‘Gino – Rosso’ 2019
IGT Veneto, Italy $18.95 14.0% alcohol
Floral notes, red and dark cherry/berry fruit and black plum compote contribute to the nose of this medium-bodied, soft and sweet-tinged offering. The palate flavours are ripe fruit—black currant, dark cherry—inter-laced with mocha and crème de cassis. This is crowd-friendly and good to go now when sipped alone or with pasta in spicy tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2019 Cantine Bellini ‘Toscana – Rosso’ is a blend of hand-harvested 80% sangiovese/10% merlot/10% cabernet sauvignon that underwent controlled temperature fermentation 20-25 ° in stainless steel tank with automatic punching down and pumping over the cap. It then spent at least 18 days macerating on the lees and underwent malolactic fermentation before ageing 12 months in stainless steel tank.
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Cantine Bellini ‘Toscana – Rosso’ 2019
IGT Toscana, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of grilled herbs, blueberry and ripe cherry precede a light-medium bodied, sweet-tinged wash of crunchy red fruit—pie cherry and currant—intertwined with fine grained tannin and plenty of tangy acidity. It finishes clean and refreshing with palate replays and oodles of tang and pizzazz. Pour alongside pasta arrabiata or prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)
90
Heredad de Urueña ‘Santo – Terroir Tempranillo’ 2014
Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León, Spain $16.95 (629832) 13.0% alcohol
Rich, ripe aromas of dried currants and plum compote are on the nose. A full-bodied, creamy-smooth wash of palate-bathing sweet-tinged fruit with black plum and ripe fig are predominant on entry, soon joined by red currant and red cherry adding juicy tang and providing good balance on the back palate and finish. This 100% tempranillo pours and pairs well with grilled/smoked back ribs slathered with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)
New in Vintages
• The following 2017 Rocca del Macie ‘Famiglia Zingarelli – Reserva’ Chianti Classico is a blend of primarily native sangiovese fruit with a bit of cabernet sauvignon and merlot. It matured for 24 months in French oak barrels.
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Rocca delle Macie ‘Famiglia Zingarelli – Reserva’ Chianti Classico 2017
DOCG Chianti Classico, Italy $24.95 (930966) 14.5% alcohol
This is an interesting, well balanced, delectable red blend—mostly sangiovese with a small amount of cabernet sauvignon and merlot—offering up aromas of sharp spice, mixed field berry fruit and red cherry. It bathes the palate with myriad palate flavours—predominantly pie cherry and black plum intertwined and enhanced with mocha, grilled savoury herbs and exotic spice. This showcases creamy smooth mouthfeel, persistent purity of fruit, some depth and quite good value. Give this a go with lasagna, osso buco or manicotti. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2016 Lungarotti ‘San Giorgio’ Rosso was created in the mid-1970’s and was one of the first and most successful cabernet sauvignon/sangiovese blends in Umbria with its 50/50 split. It was fermented in stainless steel tanks with almost a month of maceration followed by 12 months maturation in oak barriques then 12 additional months in bottle before release.
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Lungarotti ‘San Giorgio’ Rosso 2016
IGT Umbria, Italy $51.95 (62877) 14.0% alcohol
Heady aromas—exotic spice, rich dark berry fruit and dark chocolate—introduce a value-packed wash of palate flavours with black currant, black plum and cassis to the fore adorned with a soft tug of ripe tannin and plenty of pizzazz and tang. It’s nicely balanced with plenty of fruit flavour, good texture, refreshing acidity and plenty of charm. Aerate/decant a couple of hours to ameliorate the soft, ripe tannin and serve now to 2026 with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2018 Vicente Faria ‘Gloria’ is a blend of über-premium Port grapes—40% tinta roriz/30% touriga franca/30% touriga nacional—with both this table wine and all Port wine sourced from the historic, friendly and picturesque Douro wine region. The winemaker opines that the fruit was hand-harvested at or near the apex of its organaleptical perfection. It matured 12 months in oak barrels before bottling. It shouldn’t be around LCBO shelves long at this quality-price ratio, pick up a few; if you’re flush, more than a ‘few’.
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Vicente Faria ‘Gloria - Reserva’ 2018
DOC Douro, Portugal $16.95 (146522) 13.5% alcohol
Piquant spice, cherry/berry fruit and wisps of earthy and gamy note aromas abound. It blankets the palate with a full-bodied, full-flavoured, full-Monty surge of palate flavours—rich, ripe black raspberry and cassis robed in spice, herbs and lip-smacking tang persisting through the lengthy finish and aftertaste. There’s deft balance, depth, concentration of flavours and careful cellaring potential—drink now to 2030 with a thick, prime cut of beef, grilled to (your) perfection. (Vic Harradine)
LCBO ‘Limited Time Offers’ – September 14 to October 11, 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 September 14 to October 11, 2020
White Wine:
• You will receive a $3.00 discount for the following three wines off of the price shown below in each of the reviews.
• There’s good value in the following Beringer Napa chardonnay. Grapes sourced from multiple vineyard parcels were fermented in 25% stainless steel and 75% French oak followed by eight months barrel aging before bottling.
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Beringer Vineyards Napa Valley Chardonnay
Napa Valley (84988) $25.95 14.1% alcohol
The nose leads with lemon, lime zest, red apple adorned with a pleasant floral note, hints of spice and toast. Dry and medium bodied with balancing acidity, the generous mouthfeel transports flavours of Meyer lemon, pear and Gala apple through the medium-long finish before a mineral note appears on the aftertaste. Sip on its own or alongside simply-prepared roast chicken. (Lisa Isabelle)
• The following 2018 Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials product always available in select LCBO stores.
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Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Chardonnay
VQA Short Hills Bench $21.95 (268342) 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of baking spice, apple, pear and wisps of citrus capture the essence of this fabulous chardonnay. It bathes the palate with flavours of green apple, ripe pear and lemon curd adorned with racy tang. This is medium bodied with good mouthfeel and a lingering, juicy finish and aftertaste. It showcases mixed spice, deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and a boatload of charm. Pour with roast chicken or crown roast of pork. (Vic Harradine)
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Rodney Strong 'Charlotte's Home' Sauvignon Blanc
Northern Sonoma, California $19.95 (449207) 13.5% alcohol
Fruit from the Alexander Valley vineyard originally planted by Rod Strong in 1971 is the basis for this wine, which also includes fruit from the Russian River and Dry Creek valleys. A small percentage of the wine was fermented in French oak, adding a whiff of spice to the lifted aromas of white flowers, ripe tropical and stone fruits, citrus and lemon balm. Silky and clean on the palate, the layered flavours of passion fruit, ripe melon, peach and bright citrus shine through, a nuance of pithy grapefruit and mineral undertones adding zest to the long lasting, vibrant finish. Lovely well chilled on its own, it’s ideal paired with seafood salad. (Susan Desjardins)
• You will receive a $2.00 discount for the following three wines off of the price shown below in each of the reviews.
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Louis Jadot Chardonnay Bourgogne
AOC Bourgogne, France $24.95 (933077)
Ripe pear, red apple and a salad bowl of tropical fruit aromas precede a nicely textured wash of crisp, green apple, white peach and lemon yoghurt. It’s medium weight with a delicious, mouth-watering finish. Very refreshing on its own, it has plenty of oomph to pair with steamed seafood—lobster or mussels, or roasted fowl—chicken or turkey. (Vic Harradine)
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Oyster Bay Pinot Grigio
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand $19.95 (326090) 12.0% alcohol
This is a cool-climate styled pinot grigio that was stainless steel fermented with a similar profile both on the nose and palate—ripe pear, green apple, a touch of ginger and a grassy/herbal note in the background. It’s medium-light bodied with a good balance of sweetness and acidity. It pairs well with friends and a sushi platter. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2019 Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling was sourced from some of the oldest riesling vines in Canada. They were approximately 40-years old when fruit for this wine was sourced. They were first planted in Ontario by Hermann Weis of Weingut St. Urbans-hof winery in Mosel, Germany and are now known generally as the ‘Weis clone’. An iconic viticulturist, Mr. Weis sadly passed away earlier this year. We all owe him a doff of the cap and a sincere thank you as it’s now the most planted riesling vine in Canada having delivered myriad wine trophies and awards here and abroad.
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Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (38117) 7.5% alcohol
Delicate aromas of citrus, floral and pear transition to a balanced-on-a-pin river of gorgeous flavour that on entry to the palate showcases lime, green apple and wisps of honey infused ripe pear. It persists through the lingering finish and aftertaste enhanced by herbal notes, tart tang and lip-smacking acidity. It showcases nerve and verve with pizzazz and plenty of charm. You shouldn’t go wrong in drinking this over the next 8 or so years. Try with white pizza on spice-oiled dough lightly adorned with cheese—brie, chèvre and extra-old cheddar—decorated with basil and sliced mushrooms and sprinkled with grated parmigiana reggiano. (Vic Harradine)
• You will receive a $1.00 discount for the following wine off of the price shown below in the review.
• The following ‘Twisted’ wine from Flat Rock Cellars is the #1 selling white wine in Vintages Essentials. It’s a blend of riesling, gewürztraminer and chardonnay.
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Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted - White’
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (1578) 11.0% alcohol
The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour. Rosewater, mixed spice, green apple and lime aromas abound on the nose of this gorgeously balanced riesling/gewürztraminer/chardonnay blend. It bathes the palate medium bodied, creamy textured and off-dry 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)
Red Wine
• You will receive a $2.00 discount for the following seven wines off of the price shown below in each of the reviews.
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13th Street Gamay Noir
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (177824) 13.0% alcohol
Smoke, spice and gamy notes roll from this juicy, lively, rustic gamay. The palate’s treated to a medium-bodied, nicely textured mouthful of red and dark berry fruit robed in excellent racy acidity along with mixed spice and bacon notes persisting through the dry finish. For full enjoyment, aerate/decant a couple of hours before pouring. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache was hand harvested separately with the syrah undergoing whole-bunch carbonic maceration for 15 days and grenache destemmed and macerated approximately three weeks after which wine is transferred to 225 L barriques for about 10 months, lightly fined and bottled then bottle aged for several months before being released.
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Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache
AOP Languedoc, France $16.95 (413237) 14.0% alcohol
Gerard Bertrand continues to impress with his extremely giving, yet affordable wine. This blend, 100% hand-picked, is mostly syrah and about one-third grenache with a lovely nose—ripe black fruit, mild oak, gingerbread, violet and rose aromas abound. A generous wash of juicy blackberry, ripe cassis and cinnamon flavours treats the palate followed with a piquant peppery note defining the fruity-spicy, medium-long finish. This medium-full bodied red has good structure and plenty of tang; it’s a good companion to grilled-rare lamb chops. (Louise Boutin)
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Joel Gott ‘815’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California $24.95 (444059) 13.9% alcohol
Savory herbs, gamy notes and charred toast aromas herald a medium-bodied nicely textured stream of rich dark fruit—cherry and black currant—intertwined with racy tang, sweet vanilla and dark bittersweet chocolate underpinned by still-evolving tannin. Aerate/decant for an hour or two hours before pouring with well-seasoned, grilled striploin. (Vic Harradine)
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Louis Jadot Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2011
AOC Bourgogne, France $26.95 (162073) 12.5% alcohol
An attractive light-ruby hue in the glass, the quiet nose offers spice, floral and red berry fruit aromas. This is über-tangy throughout with a racy line of red currant and sour cherry mingling with beetroot and spice. It’s light on its feet with good texture. Pour alongside pasta in tomato sauce or meat-laden pizza. (Vic Harradine)
• The following ring.bolt Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.
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ring.bolt Cabernet Sauvignon
Margaret River $21.95 (606624) 14.5% alcohol
Floral, savory and dark berry fruit aromas set the table for a smorgasbord of flavours led by a palate-coating, gusher of ripe juicy fruit—ripe juicy black Bing cherry, black bramble berry and red currant—interlaced with black licorice, espresso roast and hints of cassis. Showcasing good purity of fruit and with depth and complexity, this is medium-full bodied with creamy-smooth mouthfeel and a lingering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Trius red blend—cabernet franc/cabernet sauvignon/merlot—was matured 12 months in French and American oak.
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Trius Red
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (303800) 13.6% alcohol
Aromas of ripe cherry/berry fruit, herbs and spice abound. A medium-full bodied, nicely textured flow of red cherry, bramble berry and savory herbs blanket the palate tightly robed in the still-evolving grip of perceptible tannin. Aerate/decant for three hours pouring with rare-grilled, well-seasoned striploin. (Vic Harradine)
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Wakefield ‘Jaraman’ Shiraz
Clare Valley/McLaren Vale $24.95 (377036) 14.5% alcohol
Highly perfumed aromas of roses and violets introduce this fabulous shiraz. An oxymoron that it’s both delicate and powerful, but it is. It’s also medium-full bodied and silky smooth on the palate with fruit-forward flavours of sweet ripe bramble berry melding perfectly with crunchy pie cherry adorned with dark chocolate, grilled savory herbs and espresso roast gliding easily over the palate infusing the finish and aftertaste. It’s all underpinned with a dollop of ripe tannin adding structure and interest. Drink now after a two-hour aeration/decant on its own or alongside this fabulous recipe from the late, great James Beard for marinated filet of beef. (Vic Harradine)
• You will receive a $3.00 discount for the following six wines off of the price shown below in each of the reviews.
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Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
DO Colchagua, Chile $19.95 (322586) 14.0% alcohol
There’s great value here. 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)
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Seven Falls Cabernet Sauvignon
Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley $21.95 (360222) 14.5% alcohol
This matured 15 to 18 months in seasoned and new oak barrel, mostly American with the balance French. There are aromas of dark berry fruit, mixed spice and espresso roast galore. This is ready to drink and oozing flavour with palate-coating flavours of dried currant and black, juicy Bing cherry interwoven with mint leaf, spice and vanilla. It finishes as it started—deftly balanced, fruit-forward, good depth and plenty of charm from cork pop to last drop. (Vic Harradine)
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Tenuta Sette Ponti ‘Crognolo’
IGT Toscana $34.95 (727636) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of red and dark berry fruit swirl from the glass with notions of spice and herbs before the palate’s treated to a rich, fruit-driven flow of briary berry, juicy black Bing cherry and piquant/peppery spice blanketing the palate. This is medium-full bodied with firm texture and a finish and aftertaste displaying a sharp herbal bite along with drying tannins. Aerate/decant for three hours or pop corks 2021-2023. (Vic Harradine)
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The Foreign Affair ‘The Conspiracy’
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (149237) 13.8% alcohol
This cabernet, Ripasso-inspired red—the wine was ‘passed over’ cab sauv and cab franc skins from dried wines—highlights aromas of raisin, fig and red cherry. It flows over the palate with tannin-infused waves of dark berry fruit and red cherry that are spice laden and framed with good moderating acidity. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a long finish laced with still-evolving tannin. Pop corks now-2025 after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)
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Marchesi de' Frescobaldi ‘Tenuta di Castiglioni’
IGT Toscana, Italy $21.95 (145920) 13.0% alcohol
This red blend—cabernet sauvignon/merlot/cabernet franc/sangiovese—matured 12 months in French oak barriques and a further two months in bottle before release. Alluring aromas of red and black berry fruit mingle with mocha on the nose of this medium-bodied, nicely textured gem. It bathes the palate with a round, smooth stream of red currant and pie cherry interlaced with mixed spice and grilled savory herbs. It finishes dry, lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Clare Valley - Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented in original winery fermenters allowing for careful control of skin maceration plus colour and tannin extraction with some parcels left an additional two weeks to ensure good structure. Wine was gently pressed into French oak barrels for malolactic conversion then matured a further 12 months in primarily one- to four-year-old French oak barrels with only 10% new.
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Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Clare Valley - Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Clare Valley, South Australia $19.95 (744235) 14.0% alcohol
Rich, lively aromas of red and black cherry/berry fruit interweave with piquant spice and wisps of white pepper. It spreads over the palate medium-plus bodied, deftly balanced and generously textured. Palate flavours of ripe black bramble berry and crunchy pie cherry mingle with delightful tangy acidity and fine, soft tannin. Good to go now and the next five or so years; give it a go with grilled rack of lamb or medium-rare steak. (Vic Harradine)
Icewine
• You will receive a $5.00 discount for the following two wines off of the price shown below in each of the reviews.
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Inniskillin Vidal Icewine
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)
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Jackson-Triggs ‘Reserve’ Vidal Icewine
VQA Ontario $39.95 (389411) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
Mango and ripe yellow peach aromas unleash a gusher of sweet, honeyed flavour on the palate with honey-drizzled peach pie and candied apricot coating the palate and persisting through the finish. It’s full bodied and generously textured delivering a sticky, sweet aftertaste. Pour with quality blue cheese or fruit flan. (Vic Harradine)
• You will receive a $2.00 discount for the following wine off of the price shown below in the review.
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Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine 2015
VQA Ontario $22.95 (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)
Cheers, Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic