March 1, 2021 Newsletter
Newsletter Highlights:
- 95 points and over – Three wines rang the 95 points and over bell: Plume Chardonnay 2018 earned 95 points @ $29.95 found under Upstream in Winecurrent; Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – The Powder Monkey – Single-Vineyard’ Shiraz 2015 earned 96 points @ $59.95 found under Upstream in Winecurrent; Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – The Iron Duke’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 earned 95 points @ $59.95 found under Upstream in Winecurrent.
- Exceptional-value wine – Eighteen wines earned the coveted icon. They’re found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the icon checkmark in the March 6, 2021 Vintages Release and in categories following the release. Happy hunting!
- Limited Time Offers –There are twenty-five wines that are being discounted at the LCBO for up to $3.00 a bottle from March 1 to March 28, 2021 found at the end of the newsletter.
- Dave’s Delight – Torres ‘Salmos’ 2015 earned 90 points @ $39.95 found under Spain: Red Wine.
- Louise Loves – Tawse ‘Sketches of Niagara’ Riesling earned 92 points @ $15.95 (includes discount) found under LCBO Limited Time Offers; Plume Chardonnay 2018 earned 95 points @ $29.95 found under Upstream in winecurrent;
- Lisa Likes – M. Chapoutier ‘Les Vignes de Bila-Haut’ Côtes du Roussillon-Villages earned 90 points @ $12.95 (includes discount) and Mitolo ‘Jester’ Shiraz earned 92 points @ $20.95 (includes discount) with both found under LCBO Limited Time Offers.
- Vic Picks – Vineland Estates Winery ‘bo-teek vineyard – clone 76’ Chardonnay 2017 earned 92 points @ $25.00 found under Ontario: White Wine; Ōhau ‘Woven Stone – Single Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2019 earned 90 points @ $17.95 found under New Zealand: White Wine; Perdeberg Cellar ‘The Vineyard Collection’ Cinsault 2018 earned 90 points @ $17.95 found under South Africa: Red Wine; Balbas ‘Barrica 5 Meses - Old Vines’ Tempranillo 2015 earned 88 points @ $15.95 found under Spain Red Wine.
March 6, 2021: Vintages Release
Fortified Wine: Port
• The following10-Year-Old Tawny Port designation is not exactly what you might think. It’s invariably Port that has not been barrel-aged for exactly ten years, although the name implies it. Rather, it’s a wine that displays the deemed organoleptic characteristics of Port, barrel-aged for ten-years. Each Port is submitted and tasted blind by a panel of experts to determine if the wine meets the exacting standard. These designated 10-Year-Old Tawnies are almost always a blend of different vintages with the average age of the wine invariably exceeding ten years. The above concept and procedures hold true for 20-, 30- and 40-year-old Tawnies.
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Barros ‘10-Year-Old Tawny’ Port
DOP Porto $28.95 (964353) 20.0% alcohol
This light-ruby Tawny is fresh and lively throughout. Aromas of espresso roast, cedar and pipe tobacco fill the air. A balanced and bountiful stream of dark berry fruit, orange zest, figs and sweet treacle bathe the palate with wisps of nutty notes, raisins and caramel. It’s light-medium weight with good mouthfeel and a long, sweet-tinged finish. Pour with crème brûlée or pumpkin pie. (Vic Harradine)
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Croft ‘Quinta Da Roeda’ Vintage Port 2005
Portugal $58.95 (650556) 20.0% alcohol
Quinta Da Roeda is produced from Croft’s estate vineyard, only in good years. According to the winery, this single estate vintage port will mature more quickly than the main classic vintages and will be at its peak somewhere between 10 to 15 years of age. Muscular and concentrated, this particular one was bottled in 2007. Sweet and full bodied, it has 20% alcohol with balanced acidity, firm structured tannins and intense black fruit flavours. With its good core of fruit and well-built frame, it will indeed stand up nicely for a long time to come.
Sparkling Wine
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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)
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Segura Viudas ‘Heredad - Reserva’ Brut Cava Non-Vintage
DO Cava, Spain $32.95 (558825) 12.0% alcohol
Golden, with a green hue, this limited-production Cava, a blend of first pressing of estate-grown macabeo and parellada, displays depth and lovely balance. Intense aromas of pear, citrus and toasted butter pastry entice. Dry, bright and fresh, it has refined creamy mousse and lively, crisp texture. Rich flavours of Bosc pear and lemon-lime wash across the palate lingering on a clean, persistent finish. A sparkling wine of presence and weight, it presents well as a gift or served at any holiday gathering. (Susan Desjardins)
Ontario: White Wine
• The following 2017 Vineland Estates Winery ‘bo-teek vineyard – clone 76’ Chardonnay was sourced from 20-year-old vines of 100% chardonnay found in their bo-teek vineyard and was bottled after three months in barrel with its lees still in the bottle so one shouldn’t expect crystal-clear liquid along with your crystal-clear enjoyment. Very limited quantities for this wine. Find the store nearest you or have it sent to the nearest store for you.
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Vineland Estates Winery ‘bo-teek vineyard – clone 76’ Chardonnay 2017
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $25.00 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of Golden Delicious apple and honey-drizzled pear abound. It blankets the palate with a medium-full bodied, nicely textured stream of lemon curd and piquant spice interwoven with tang-laden pizzazz and a lengthy and mineral-tinged finish and aftertaste. This is rich, tasty, interesting and worthy of your attention. Give this a try with roast festive bird or crown roast of pork—now to 2028. (Vic Harradine)
California: Red Wine
• The following 2017 Buena Vista ‘The Sheriff’ pays homage to one of California’s first sheriffs, Agoston Haraszthy, who also established Buena Vista Winery in 1857. It’s also a wine included in the much-vaunted category of the ‘Boisset Collection’ headed by wine icon, Jean-Charles Boisset, who is one-half of the wine world’s power couple as the husband of Gina Gallo. This is an eclectic blend of nine red grapes—29% petite sirah/22% petit verdot/16% cabernet sauvignon/9% carignan/9% grenache/7% syrah/4% malbec/2% cabernet franc/2% mission.
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Buena Vista ‘The Sheriff’ 2017
Sonoma County, California $49.95 (539114) 15.0% alcohol
Dark, brooding and opaque in the glass, aromas of black currant, dark plum and black raspberry leap from the glass adorned with tobacco leaf and grilled savoury herbs. A brawny wash of flavours blanket the palate with bramble berry jam, kirsch liqueur and black, juicy Bing cherry framed by good tang and acidity and underpinned by perceptible, still-evolving tannin. This is full bodied and fully textured with oodles of pizzazz. Aerate/decant for three hours before serving or pop corks three years from now with a prime cut of beef tenderloin. (Vic Harradine)
New Zealand: White Wine
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Ōhau ‘Woven Stone – Single Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2019
Ōhau, North Island, New Zealand $17.95 (17552) 12.5% alcohol
The price-quality ratio skews wildly in your favour, pick up a few. Lifted aromas of herbal notes and wisps of passionfruit provide segue to a delightful, medium-weight gusher of lemon-lime citrus, mineral notes and a cluster of pit fruit flavour—peach, plum and wisps of apricot—coating the palate persisting through the lengthy, mouth-watering finish, clean, crisp and refreshing. Pour on its own as a refreshing sipper or with grilled or pan-seared fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)
South Africa: Red Wine
• The following 2018 Perdeberg Cellar ‘The Vineyard Collection’ Cinsault was sourced from 30-year-old, dry-grown bush vines in the Paarl wine region without an irrigation system, only watered by natural rain in winter. Cinsault is a drought-resistant grape variety known locally as Hermitage and was a key component in the creation of pinotage. Now you know where the ‘tage’ (pronounced tawge) came from, you’d be correct if you guessed the other grape in this crossing to create pinotage was… pinot noir = pinotage.
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Perdeberg Cellar ‘The Vineyard Collection’ Cinsault 2018
WO Paarl, South Africa $17.95 (18681) 14.0% alcohol
Notes of floral, strawberry and cherry waft easily from this 100% cinsault, itself an oddity as this grape is usually used in a blend with other grapes. It’s lightly ruby-hued in the glass and medium-bodied with sweet-tinged palate flavours of strawberry and raspberry framed by good tang and underpinned by perceptible and acceptable wisps of tannin underpinning. Aerate/decant for an hour or so before pouring with spiced and crispy-grilled chicken wings or thighs. (Vic Harradine)
France: White Wine
• The following 2019 Gustave Lorentz ‘Réserve’ Sylvaner is an easy-going, easy-drinking white wine that’s easily paired with shellfish, fish, charcuterie board or enjoyed on its own.
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Gustave Lorentz ‘Réserve’ Sylvaner 2019
AOC Alsace $16.95 (18160) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of yellow pit fruit—peach and plum—intertwine with savoury notes and notions of ginger root. A well-paced and well-priced stream of medium-bodied and nicely textured palate flavour dishes up green apple and ripe pear interlaced with soft Meyer lemon and hints of pineapple persisting through the tasty finish and aftertaste. It’s nicely balanced with oodles of flavour and pizzazz. Pour with all manner of seafood—fish and shellfish—as an appetizer or a main. (Vic Harradine)
Greece: White Wine
• The following 2019 Troupis Winery ‘Fteri’ Moschofiloro is 100% Moschofiloro sourced from vineyards at 640 m. Grapes were fermented at cool temperatures to preserve the floral notes and fresh, lively acidity. The price quality balance tips well in your favour.
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Troupis Winery ‘Fteri’ Moschofiloro 2019
PGI Acadia, Peloponnese, Greece $15.95 (647388) 12.0% alcohol
Hints of rosewater and plenty of floral notes and exotic incense aromas are on the nose of this lighter-styled Greek gem. It delivers a tangy line of palate flavours with lime cordial, honeydew melon and lime zest to the fore. It’s clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to last drop, making it a great dance partner with sushi, pan-seared scallops or mussels steamed in white wine and sliced leeks. (Vic Harradine)
Spain: Red Wine
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Balbas ‘Barrica 5 Meses - Old Vines’ Tempranillo 2015
DO Ribera del Duero $15.95 (543710) 14.0% alcohol
The ‘5 meses’ refers to the 5 months this old-vine tempranillo spent maturing in oak. Red licorice, baking spice and stewed plum aromas introduce this full-bodied, easy-drinking red. A rich, luscious river of flavour blankets the palate with red cherry, blueberry and black plum to the fore along with baking spice, toasty bits and savoury herbs. The lingering finish is balanced and lip-smacking good. At this price… load up the trunk. (Vic Harradine)
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Torres ‘Salmos’ 2015
DOCa Priorat $39.95 (450734) 14.5% alcohol
A delicious blend of Cariñena/garnacha/syrah, this has a dark plum colour and an expressive nose of smoke, leather, raspberry, and vanilla aromas punctuated with hints of dried basil. It’s full bodied on the palate with a good balance of acidity and plenty of smooth tannins. The flavours of sour cherry linger in a mouth-watering finish. This can be kept in the cellar until about 2023. Enjoy it along with smoked pork tenderloin. (Dave Isaacs)
New in Vintages
Spirits: Gin
• The following Isle of Wight Distillery ‘Mermaid - Small Batch’ Gin is hand crafted on the Isle of Wight using ten ethically sourced botanicals. Slow and tightly controlled distillation in column stills and local sustainably sourced ingredients coalesce to produce and allow capture of the sweet spot of the distillation.
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Isle of Wight Distillery ‘Mermaid - Small Batch’ Gin
Isle of Wight, U.K. $84.85 (13443) 700 mL and 50 mL at $7.95 (16889) 38.0% alcohol
Alluring, spirited aromas of pine cones, lemon zest and white pepper provide segue to a smooth-as-silk gin that sits gently on the palate along with a wisp of mineral/salinity on the finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own with a slice of lime and some ice, or mix with ice cubes, tonic water and a squeeze of fresh lime to begin a relaxing and refreshing end-of-your-workday happy hour. (Vic Harradine)
Upstream in winecurrent
Vintages Release: April 3, 2021
• Thirty years ago, the Rombauer family started crafting chardonnay from the Carneros region because the cooler climate and the clay soil were ideal for growing superior quality fruit. This 2019 vintage is from whole-cluster pressed juice that went through full malolactic conversion in a combination of American and French oak barrels for nine months with frequent lees stirring.
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Rombauer Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay 2019
Carneros $63.95 (441089) 14.5% alcohol
This chardonnay will transport you to your favourite movie theatre with its buttered popcorn aromas followed with peach, vanilla and nutmeg notes. It treats the palate with a coating wash of rich toasted bread and nut flavours mingling with vanilla poached pear, tangy lemon rind, salted butter and piquant spice. Definitely complex and full-bodied opulent, yet beautifully balanced. Pour alongside coquille St-Jacques or baked brie for a comforting and delightful treat. (Louise Boutin)
Vintages Release April 17, 2021
• This chardonnay from the Stewart family, pioneer west coast winemakers, is sourced from premium Napa Valley vineyards. It was aged four months in French oak, 25% new.
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Plume Chardonnay 2018
Napa Valley $29.95 (368050) 14.4% alcohol
The first sniff tells you that something great is about to unveil—delicate orchard fruits, a hint of sweet brioche and exotic spice aromas open the door to a full-bodied yet elegant flow of flavours—white peach, yellow apple, papaya, marzipan, creamy lemon curd and cardamom—expertly wrapped in just enough oak to provide perfect balance of flavours and body. This is a true elegant gem that will pair exquisitely with prawn risotto, grilled halibut with lemon butter or simply on its own as a slow sipper. (Louise Boutin)
Vintages Release April 17, 2021
• ‘An 806’ is a reference to the year in which Château de Peyrepertuse was traced back. Its citadels are still dominating the vineyard where this GSM grape blend was sourced. The syrah portion goes through carbonic maceration and the blend is matured in French oak for eight months plus a few additional months of bottle ageing before release.
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Gérard Bertrand ‘An 806’ Corbières 2018
AOP Corbières $17.95 (394288) 14.5% alcohol
This hand-harvested blend of grenache, syrah and mourvèdre shows-up with fresh aromas of blackberry compote, strawberry, pepper and dry bush. Medium-full-bodied on the palate, it carries flavours of black plum, mocha and tobacco notes enveloped in fine grippy tannin. The alcohol is well integrated and the finish and aftertaste are defined with nice tang and an herbaceous flair. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside juicy flank steak and grilled mixed bell peppers. (Louise Boutin)
Vintages Release: May 15, 2021
• The following 2018 Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – Broad-Side’ Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec is a blend of 70% shiraz/22% cabernet sauvignon/8% malbec all from the GI of Langhorne Creek, South Australia. Shiraz and malbec were de-stemmed (cabernet sauvignon was crushed) to open fermenters and pumped over 4 times daily during peak fermentation then drained and pressed after approx. ten day on skins then settled for 24 hours then racked to oak barrels for malolactic fermentation. It then matured for nine months in French and American oak, 10% new, the balance pre-loved.
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Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – Broad-Side’ Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec 2018
Langhorne Creek, South Australia $19.95 (632091) 14.0% alcohol
The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few. Aromas of spice, cassis and dark juicy berry fruit abound on the nose of this gem. It showcases deft balance, good structure, persistent purity of fruit and plenty of flavour and pizzazz. A medium-weight balanced surge of ripe mulberry, black plum and mocha flavours adorned with mixed spice, excellent tang and acidity plus creamy-smooth texture capture the palate. It finishes dry and in a flourish with each sip as good as, or better than, the previous. Pour on its own or for a treat, try alongside grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: May 15, 2021
• The following 2018 Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – Mulberry Tree’ – Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 90% cabernet sauvignon/5% petit verdot/3% merlot/2% cabernet franc sourced exclusively from the GI of Langhorne Creek, South Australia. It was de-stemmed and crushed to open fermenters for a brief soak, Fermentation peak was held to 28 °C with pump overs up to four times daily. It was then drained and pressed after 8 to 12 days on skins including up to 5 days post-ferment maceration then settled for 24 hours before racking to oak for malolactic fermentation. It then spent 12 months maturing in French oak puncheons, 10% new.
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Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – Mulberry Tree’ – Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Langhorne Creek, South Australia $19.95 (661892) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of red berry fruit and notions of minty notes precede a satin-smooth, balanced and beautiful stream of palate flavours with black cherry and bramble berry interwoven with excellent acidity and soft, ripe tannin. This is medium bodied with the fresh fruit flavours on the palate persisting through the long finish and aftertaste. There’s good symmetry between fruit flavours, acidity and tannin. Pour with burgers, pizza or wings. There’s exceptional-value here. (Vic Harradine)
Classics Catalogue Release: July 1, 2021
• The following 2015 Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – The Powder Monkey – Single-Vineyard’ Shiraz was 100% sourced from the premium Powder Monkey Vineyard behind the winery cellars. Fruit was destemmed with approximately 15% whole berry, for a short soak. Fermentation peaked at 30 °C with up to 4 pump overs per day then drained and pressed after 9 to 12 days on skins then settled for 24 hours before racking to oak for malolactic fermentation. It matured for 12 months in French oak puncheons and hogsheads, 27% new, then bottled without filtration. You’ll find sediment in the last pour, better to pour the entire bottle through a filter into a decanter aerate/decant for an hour or two then back into the bottle through funnel for service.
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Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – The Powder Monkey – Single-Vineyard’ Shiraz 2015
Langhorne Creek, South Australia $59.95 (13567) 14.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of floral notes, mixed spice and dark, ripe, cherry/berry fruit abound. It envelops the palate with a gusher of sweet-tinged bramble berry and black raspberry robed in fennel, dark bittersweet chocolate and a boatload of tang and pizzazz. This is medium-plus bodied with balance, intensity, perceptible tannin and a lingering luscious finish and aftertaste. My highest compliment… it required incredible discipline to spit. Aerate/decant for an hour or two before serving. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: October/November, 2021
• And now for something completely different. The first Australian ‘sparkling shiraz’, although it was called ‘Sparkling Burgundy’, was made in the State of Victoria in the late 1880’s by French winemaker, Auguste D'Argent, at the Victorian Champagne Co. In the following multi-vintage Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – Sparkling Shiraz’ you’ll find that a modified Solera system has kept this wine as fresh as a daisy and there’s wine in the bottle you’re drinking from as far back as 1997 and from every vintage until the latest in 2020. This latest vintage has a splash of Malbec. It’s not sweet or cloying, in fact it’s delicious, dry and tangy. Give this a go; you’ll be pleased you did.
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Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – Sparkling Shiraz’ Multi-Vintage
Langhorne Creek, South Australia $14.95 375 mL (15694) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted appealing aromas of dark berry fruit—raspberry, currant and plum compote—abound on the nose of this gem. A frothy mousse when poured, it captures the palate with a lively, fresh wash of off-dry flavours—black plum, bramble berry and dark cherry adorned with piquant spice, mocha and hints of dark chocolate. It finishes lengthy with persistent purity of fruit from palate replays. Pour on its own to welcome guests or with roast duck. Remove from the frig twenty minutes before service. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: December 2, 2021
• The following 2016 Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – The Iron Duke’ Cabernet Sauvignon is 100% cabernet sauvignon sourced exclusively from the GI of Langhorne Creek, South Australia. Grapes were destemmed and crushed to open fermenters and pumped over four times daily during peak fermentation. It was then drained and pressed after 8 to 12 days on skins then settled for 24 hours before racking to oak puncheons and hogsheads for malolactic fermentation and for maturing over 12 months in 25% new French oak and 75% pre-loved French oak puncheons and hogsheads. It was then bottled without filtration.
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Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – The Iron Duke’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Langhorne Creek, South Australia $59.95 (20117) 14.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of dried roses, black licorice and black raspberry precede a tannin- and tang-infused tsunami wave of flavours with ripe mulberry, dark, juicy Bing cherry and hints of mint-tinged herbs to the fore. This is medium-plus bodied with good mouthfeel, complexity and persistent purity of fruit throughout. It finishes lengthy and dry with replays of palate flavours on the aftertaste. Aerate/decant for two or three hours or wait a couple of years to pop corks. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: TBD, 2021
• The following 2020 Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – Wild Fig’ Shiraz/Grenache/Mourvèdre is a blend of 67% shiraz/23% grenache/10% mourvèdre sourced exclusively from the Langhorne Creek GI in South Australia. Shiraz and grenache fruit was destemmed together to open fermenters for a brief pre-ferment maceration with gentle pump-overs at a controlled peak temperature of 30 °C. Wine was then matured in both French oak puncheons and stainless steel for six months.
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Bleasdale Vineyards ‘The Potts Family – Wild Fig’ Shiraz/Grenache/Mourvèdre 2020
Langhorne Creek, South Australia $19.95 13.5% alcohol
Lifted, fresh aromas of grilled savoury herbs, fresh red plum and red cherry dominate the nose. It captures the palate with a river of nicely textured palate-flavours—black plum, bramble berry and black currant decorated with baking spice and wisps of fine-grain tannin. This is medium-bodied with excellent tang and pizzazz, a lingering finish and aftertaste. Pour with chicken satay or spicy pork meatballs. (Vic Harradine)
New in Ontario Wineries
• Order the following three wines by the bottle(s) or case(s) for daily delivery to home, office or restaurant online from this link to Henry of Pelham – There is free delivery on 12 or more bottles in Ontario. Select ‘12 Bottles+’ at check out and allow up to 10 days for delivery or, order online then pick up bottle(s) or case(s) from the winery at 1469 Pelham Rd, St. Catharines ON. Here’s a map.
• The following 2020 Henry of Pelham ‘Family Estate’ Rosé punches well above the price. Pick up a case for now, spring and summer/fall enjoyment.
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Henry of Pelham ‘Family Estate’ Rosé 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (613471) 11.5% alcohol
Lifted, involved aromas of strawberry, cherry and rose petals abound adorned with spice and orange zest. It bathes the palate with a light-medium, nicely textured and deftly balanced stream of delicious flavour with tangy red currant and red plum adorned with piquant spice and a delightful off-dry surge of cherry clafoutie on the finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own or pair with a charcuterie board, pan-seared fish or prawn and chorizo paella. Take out of the frig twenty minutes before serving. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Non-Vintage Speck Brothers ‘Lazzara’ Rosato Secco Sparkling Wine was fashioned in the ‘Charmat method’ with the 2nd fermentation occurring in a stainless steel tank. Julia Lazzara was the Speck brothers’ grandmother, with her ancestors and her husband immigrating to New York. The name of the wine and the label—her husband did fine marble work—pays homage to their Italian ancestors.
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Speck Brothers ‘Lazzara - Rosato Secco’ Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $17.95 11.5% alcohol
This pours with a hue that’s a good example of ‘oeil de perdrix’ along with aromas of red cherry/berry fruit, floral notes and yeasty bits on the nose. It pours with good mousse and fine-bead bubbles that wind their way to the top of the glass. A myriad of flavours envelop the palate with pie cherry, lemon drop candy and plenty of tangy pizzazz among them. It’s crisp and lip-smacking good on the finish and aftertaste. Pour with prawn ceviche, pan-seared calamari or freshly shucked oysters with a dot or two of hot sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2020 Three of Hearts ‘Trois Coeurs’ Pinot Grigio was hand harvested and whole-cluster pressed with no skin contact for subtle colour extraction. It was cool fermented in stainless steel to enhance fruit flavours.
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Three of Hearts ‘Trois Coeurs’ Pinot Grigio 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 12.5% alcohol
Honeydew melon, tropical fruit and floral aromas precede a gusher of tang-infused palate flavours with lemon curd and racy pomelo along with notions of lemon meringue pie and bits of grapefruit pith to the fore. It’s clean fresh and refreshing from cork pop to last drop. Pour with lighter-styled appetizers, fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)
LCBO ‘Limited Time Offers’ – March 1 to March 28, 2021
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 March 1 to March 28, 2021.
White Wine
• The following white wine receives a $3.50 discount on each bottle purchased March 1 to March 28, 2021.
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La Chablisienne ‘Les Venerables’
AOC Chablis, France $27.95 (215525) 12.6% alcohol
A benchmark effort here for reasonably priced Chablis—it’s mid weight with decent texture, a lively line of lemony tang and a lip-smacking, dry finish and aftertaste. Aromas of pear, apple and chalky mineral notes segue a nerve and verve wash of lemon zest and white grapefruit adorned with Granny Smith apple and ripe Bartlett pear on the palate. Pour with prawn ceviche, green-lipped mussels steamed in white wine and garlic or oysters Pernod. (Vic Harradine)
• The following four white wines receive a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased March 1 to March 28, 2021.
• The following Mission Hill ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores.
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Mission Hill ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay
VQA Okanagan Valley $24.95 (545004) 13.5% alcohol
Displaying aromas of tropical and tree fruit, custard and spice, this is beautifully crafted showing exemplary balance. Dry, on the full side of medium-bodied, there’s intensity to the flavours of grilled pear and pineapple. The warmth of spiced nuances, nutty toasty notes of well-integrated oak and the subtle yet refreshing acidity bringing poise to the wine and length to the finish. (Susan Desjardins)
• The following Sonoma Cutrer ‘Russian River Ranches’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine—always available in select LCBO stores.
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Sonoma Cutrer ‘Russian River Ranches’ Chardonnay
Sonoma Coast, California $27.95 (608653) 14.2% alcohol
Baking spice, oak, pear and apple aromas abound. A medium-full bodied, generously textured surge of tangy lemon curd and Key lime interweave with baked apple and spice along with hints of grapefruit pith on finish and aftertaste. This has come around nicely since last tasted. Pour with roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Tawse ‘Sketches of Niagara’ Riesling is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO stores.
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Tawse ‘Sketches of Niagara’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (89029) 10.0% alcohol
An assortment of hand-harvested grapes from select vineyards in the Niagara Peninsula fashioned this delectable fruit-forward, off-dry, low-alcohol gem. Fragrant petrol notes introduce ripe nectarine, grapefruit, Asian pear aromas and a whiff of nutmeg. The palate’s mellow with rich, stone fruit flavours flirting with perfectly balanced acidity and minerality. This is perfect to sip on its own or paired with pomelo and spicy crab salad. (Louise Boutin)
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Thirty Bench ‘Winemaker’s Blend’ Riesling 2015
VQA Beamsville Bench $22.95 (24133) 10.8% alcohol
The lifted nose of lime and piquant spice aromas is also decorated with sharp mineral notes and notions of petrol. An off-dry surge of citrus-infused flavours explode on the palate with lemon curd and lime cordial providing pizzazz along with delicious accoutrements of melon, minerality and under-ripe orchard fruit. It’s medium-weight with a bountiful, lip-smacking finish. Divine sipped on its own, it pours well with grilled or pan-seared fish, steamed mussels or breaded and skillet-fried calamari. (Vic Harradine)
• The following three white wines receive a $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased March 1 to March 28, 2021.
• The following winery, Colombia Crest, is owned by Chateau Ste Michelle. Twenty-two percent of the fruit was pressed and settled in stainless steel, the balance was aged and hand-stirred, once-a-week in one- to three-year-old French and American oak barrel for nine months. The following is a fabulous wine at a deep discount. Pick up a few.
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Columbia Crest Chardonnay
Columbia Valley, Washington State $17.95 (462846) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of spiced apple, pear and apricot introduce a gorgeous mouthful of ginger-infused tropical fruit and lemon pie filling. This is mid-plus weight with generous mouthfeel and oodles of charm. It finishes lengthy and luxurious with loads of fruit crowned with excellent moderating acidity. Pour with roast bird, pan-seared, firm fish or crown roast pork. (Vic Harradine)
88
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)
91
Ghost Pines ‘Winemaker’s Blend’ Chardonnay
Monterey/Napa/Sonoma Counties $21.95 (308122) 13.8% alcohol
Multi-County fruit was whole-bunch pressed and fermented in stainless steel before settling and aged sur lie in French and American oak. A gorgeous array of baking spice, vanilla and orchard fruit aromas set the table for a smorgasbord of flavours—tropical fruit, sweet, ripe pear and hints of citrus and spice. It’s mid-weight and good value with generous texture, depth and complexity. It finishes balanced and mouth-watering. Pour with roast chicken, pork or veal. (Vic Harradine)
• The following white wine receives a $1.00 discount on each bottle purchased March 1 to March 28, 2021.
91
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Black Sheep’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (80234) 10.0% alcohol
Aromas of lemon-lime, mineral notes and wisps of white grapefruit provide segue to a tang-laden stream of saline/flinty minerality, Granny Smith apple and lime cordial racing over the palate persisting through the crisp, clean and refreshing finish. This is medium bodied and light on its feet with excellent balance, persistent purity of fruit and oodles of tang and boatloads of charm. A perfect thirst quencher at any time, it also shines with charcuterie and a baguette or a plate of sushi, ceviche or a platter of freshly shucked briny oysters. (Vic Harradine)
Red Wine
• The following five red wines receive a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased March 1 to March 28, 2021.
91
Rodney Strong ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California $29.95 (954834) 14.5% alcohol
This is a premium pinot from the fabulous cool-climate appellation of Russian River Valley. It’s part California with ripe fruit and oodles of it, and part Burgundy with good structure and lip-smacking acidity for excellent balance. There’s red cherry with wisps of red currant and mixed spice on the nose and palate joined by ripe black berry and notions of beetroot on the finish and lingering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Concha y Toro is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select stores.
91
Concha y Toro ‘Marques de Casa Concha’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
DO Puento Alto $19.95 (337238) 14.5% alcohol
This is a glorious wine to sip, pair with food or stick in the cellar for enjoyable drinking over the next few years. Dark toast and spiced field berry on the nose, the palate-coating succulent flavours—cassis, ripe boysenberry and Bing cherry—are underpinned by a firm chalky tannin structure and excellent moderating acidity. It’s mid weight, generously textured and finishes lengthy and luxurious, chockfull of warm ripe fruit flavour. (Vic Harradine)
89
La Crema Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast $34.95 (719435) 13.5% alcohol
Sweet, ripe fruit is front and centre in this rich, luscious Pinot showcasing good depth and plenty of charm. Aromas of sweet vanilla, baking spice, mint and ripe black cherry unleash a medium-weight, well-textured flow of bramble berry jam and cherry clafoutie coating the palate garnished with toasty/oaky notes, a hint of milk chocolate and vanilla. Look for more ripe fruit and piquant spice on the lingering finish. (Vic Harradine)
90
M. Chapoutier ‘Les Vignes de Bila-Haut’ Côtes du Roussillon-Villages
AOC Côtes du Roussillon-Villages $15.95 (168716) 14.0% alcohol
Consistently great value, this southern Rhône blend of grenache, syrah and carignan opens with fresh red fruit and strawberry jam aromas with hints of vanilla, spice and an earthy note adding interest. Dry, medium bodied and well-structured with silky tannins and balancing acidity, spiced cherry and plum flavours generously coat the palate. The warming, lengthy finish delivers a wine well suited for braised beef short ribs. (Lisa Isabelle)
90
Zenato ‘Ripasso’
DOC Superiore Ripasso, Italy $24.95 (479766) 14.0% alcohol
Leftover grape skins and seeds (pomace) from Amarone and Recioto wine are added to the crushed and fermenting grapes of this wine, with the potential of adding colour, tannin, alcohol, texture, flavour and complexity. This is medium-full bodied, overflowing with rich flavour—sweet dried currant, spiced pie cherry, fig and mocha—sporting a well-balanced long succulent aftertaste. This has the oomph and structure to pair well with grilled steak or the heartiest of stews, like osso buco. It’s a step up in price and quality. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Sella and Mosca red wine receives a $2.50 discount on each bottle purchased March 1 to March 28, 2021.
89
Sella and Mosca Cannoneau Di Sardegna ‘Riserva’
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)
• The following nine red wines receive a $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased March 1 to March 28, 2021.
• The following 2017 Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select stores.
90
Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache 2017
AOP Languedoc, France $16.95 (413237) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of black currants, black licorice and tarry notes abound. It rolls over the palate with crunchy red and black fruit—plum, currant and passionfruit—framed by tangy acidity and underpinned by soft, ripe tannin. Medium-full bodied and nicely textured, this is enhanced with a two-hour aeration/decant. Versatile at the table, pour alongside burgers, gourmet sausage, red pizza or pasta in Bolognese sauce. The price-quality proposition favours the purchaser/imbiber. (Vic Harradine)
89
Ghost Pines ‘Winemaker’s Blend’ Merlot 2013
Sonoma County/Napa County $19.15 (454876) 14.4% alcohol
Plum and spicy notes of cedar and tobacco interweave with an earthy quality on the nose. The spice tickles and warms the palate, accenting lush flavours of black cherry, berry and plum while 15 months in French and American oak barrel offers smoky notes of toast and coffee bean. There’s good structure here, ripe tannin, a velvety texture and freshness offering balance to the ripe fruit of this ideal vintage. Finishing dry and fruity, it pairs well with grilled meats. (Susan Desjardins)
90
Le Volte dell’Ornellaia
IGT Toscana $29.95 (964221) 14.0% alcohol
A highly anticipated, perennial favourite, this blend of 67% merlot, 20% cabernet sauvignon, 13% sangiovese, is ready to drink, fair value and shouldn’t disappoint. Dark berry fruit, piquant spice and mint aromas abound before dishing up a focused line of crunchy pie cherry and tart passionfruit scurrying across the palate adorned with notions of mixed spice and mocha, This is medium bodied with silky-smooth texture and soft ripe tannin. Drink now after a three-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)
90
Rivera ‘Il Falcone Riserva’ Castel del Monte
DOC Castel del Monte, Puglia $24.95 (177295) 13.5% alcohol
The principal component of this blend is Nero di Troia, the native grape of Puglia. Aged in French oak, this offers great complexity on the nose—herbaceous and floral notes, hints of dark chocolate, sweet spice and a core of ripe berry fruit. Complexity complements balance, firm structure and weight. The first sip brings the ripe berry fruit to the fore merging with notes of dried fruit and herbs, charry toast and earth. Velvety in texture, dry and full bodied, the wine is drinking well now, but has been crafted to age. (Susan Desjardins)
92
Mitolo ‘Jester’ Shiraz
McLaren Vale, South Australia $22.95 (659607) 14.5% alcohol
This is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select stores. Dark and mysterious at first glance, it reveals itself with aromas of plum and cassis accented with cedar, mint and hints of black pepper. It starts with vibrant, juicy ripe cherry and black currant accented with dark chocolate and sweet spice, finishing warm with velvety tannins. Enjoy this full-bodied, rich and luscious red with spiced, grilled lamb chops. (Lisa Isabelle)
• The following ring.bolt Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.
91
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.
87
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)
89
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)
89
Torres Gran Coronas ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon
DO Penedès, Spain $21.95 (36483) 14.0% alcohol
Produced from fruit harvested on the family’s home estate, Mas la Plana, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo offers lifted, complex aromas of leather, underbrush, ripe red and black fruits and spiced vanilla. Dry and full bodied, the flavourful ripe fruit bathes the palate caressed by delicious notes of vanilla and sweet exotic spice. Firm in structure yet generous, tasty and savoury, it’s warm on the finish. This deftly balanced wine will pair with all manner of grilled meats. (Susan Desjardins)
Other Wines and Spirits
• The following Lakeview Vidal Icewine receives a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased March 1 to March 28, 2021.
• The following Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine is also a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.
91
Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine
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 and stay safe, Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic