March 14, 2021 Newsletter
Salut! at Home 2021 Event Information for Ottawa Subscribers
Salut! at Home Event – On Wednesday, May 19, 2021, the Children’s Aid Foundation of Ottawa is hosting an evening of good food, good wine, and good company. Each set of two guests will receive two three-course meals created and prepared by Thyme & Again, as well as a bespoke collection of three bottles of Ontario VQA wines paired by Vic Harradine, with wine and food delivered to your home.
Proceeds from this event will go to supporting children and youth at the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa. Some of their initiatives include providing post-secondary bursaries for former youth in foster care and providing essential items like beds and clothing for families in need.
Registration is now open! Visit www.HelpOttawaKids.ca today to purchase tickets. You can order a dinner for two, or make a group booking for a virtual table of four sets of two (8 people) at a considerable discount – friends, business acquaintances, clients, neighbours. You will be connected most of the evening with just your table of eight.
Hope to see you on Zoom that evening!
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Newsletter Highlights:
- 95 points and over – One wine rang the 95 points and over bell: The 2012 Aurelio Settimo ‘Rocche Dell’Annunziata – Riserva’ Barolo earned 95 points @ $134.95 found under Consignment Wine.
- Exceptional-value wine – Sixteen wines earned the coveted icon. They’re found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the icon checkmark in the March 20, 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 Now to March 28, 2021 found at the end of the newsletter.
- Lisa Likes – Carmim ‘Terra Lenta - Premium’ Red earned 88 points @ $13.95 found under Portugal: Red Wine; 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.
- Louise Loves – Tawse ‘Sketches of Niagara’ Riesling earned 92 points @ $15.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; Vaucher Père et Fils Fleurie earned 90 points @ $17.95 found under France: Red Wine;
- Vic Picks – Chevalier ‘Monopole’ Brut Rosé Non-Vintage earned 91 points @ $16.95 found under Sparkling Wine; 2019 Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Riesling earned 91 points @ $19.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; 2018 Kaiken ‘Ultra – Las Rocas’ Malbec earned 92 points @ $19.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine; 2017 Château Mont-Redon earned 92 points @ $53.95 and, of course, all his exceptional-value wine reviews.
March 20, Vintages Release
Sparkling Wine
93
Peller Estates ‘Ice Cuvée’ Rosé Non-Vintage
VQA Niagara Peninsula $36.95 (113035) 12.0% alcohol
A lovely salmon pink, this versatile sparkler combines Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as the base wine with a dash of icewine. It displays sweet, almost honeyed, red berry fruit on the nose. Just off-dry due to dosage with Cabernet Franc and Vidal icewine, it has a fine, light mousse and replays the lively berry flavours on the palate—think of sun-kissed, field-ripe strawberries and juicy, ripe currant. It’s refreshing with a hint of sweetness that lingers on the finish. This is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. (Susan Desjardins)
91
Tawse ‘Spark – ‘Limestone Vineyard’ Riesling Sparkling Wine
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 at the table, serve on its own or with freshly shucked oysters, ceviche or sushi. (Vic Harradine)
90
Domaine Allimant-Laugner ‘Brut’ Crémant d’Alsace
AOC Alsace $17.95 (30593) 12.5% alcohol
This was produced Méthode Traditionnelle and produces a pretty, straw hue. This lively engaging blend of Auxerrois and Riesling offers a trace of yeast and fresh fruity aromas of pear and citrus adorned by mineral notes. The mousse is fine and refreshing, the fruit replaying on the palate and extending through a clean tangy finish. This is a great aperitif wine and can be paired with lighter-styled appetizers and is an exceptional-value wine, as well. (Vic Harradine)
91
Chevalier ‘Monopole’ Brut Rosé Non-Vintage
AOC Crémant de Bourgogne $16.95 (485920) 12.0% alcohol
This ‘Monopole’—they source only fruit that’s from their own vineyards—is clean, crisp and refreshing with ripe fruit flavour, persistent fine-bead bubbles and a lengthy, mouth-watering finish. It opens with excellent frothy mousse and aromas of red cherry/berry fruit with wisps of spice and mineral notes before bathing the palate with a well-balanced stream of red currant and red raspberry flavours that replay along with notions of crisp orange on the lingering, lip-smacking aftertaste. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour, pick up six or more for drinking over the next year or so. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: White Wine
• Wine from the following 2018 Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Canadian Oak’ Chardonnay was pressed into and ambient-yeast fermented in, Canadian oak barrel with 90% pre-loved from one to five years and 10% new. It matured for 10 months in the same barrels and underwent partial—50%—malolactic conversion.
90
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Canadian Oak’ Chardonnay 2018
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (149302) 13.0% alcohol
Light-gold hued in the glass, lifted aromas of exotic spice, pungent oaky notes and orchard fruit—red apple, ripe pear, apricot—and hi-toned spirits abound. It captures the palate with an energetic surge of baking spice, caramel apple and citrussy notes. This is medium weight with good mouthfeel, deft balance and a lengthy lip-smacking finish. It’s good to go now alongside roast pork with a tangy applesauce side or chicken pot pie. (Vic Harradine)
• The following sustainably grown Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Riesling was sourced from vines +20 years old with the largest portion being 35 years old at harvest for this wine that were shovel planted by the Speck Brothers in 1984. 3.5 tons/acre was taken from the well-known Weiss 21B clone vines. It was fermented in stainless steel tank at a controlled cool temperature of 15 – 17 ° C and a portion in large, neutral-oak foudres.
91
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Riesling 2019
VQA Short Hills Bench $19.95 (557165) 9.8% alcohol
The price-quality balance in this perennial favourite tips wildly in your favour. Floral, petrol and mineral notes intertwine with lime zest and piquant spice aromas on the nose of this fabulous off-dry riesling. It races over the palate with nerve, verve and delicious tang-infused flavours—lime cordial and sharp minerality with notions of Granny Smith apple. This is medium bodied with creamy-smooth texture and a lingering, lip-smacking finish. Give it a go with scallop ceviche, prawn bisque or steamed mussels in a shallow bath of white wine and garlic. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Tawse ‘Sketches of Niagara’ Riesling is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO stores.
92
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)
Ontario: Red Wine
• The following Tawse ‘Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir is a Vintages Essentials product always available in select stores. This is a blend from hand-harvested fruit from select vineyards across the Niagara wine region matured 14 months in French oak barrels before bottling and release.
90
Tawse ‘Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir
VQA Niagara Peninsula $25.95 (130989) 13.0% alcohol
A lightly-hued red in the glass, it offers delicate aromas of piquant spice, cedar and raspberry on the nose. It streaks over the palate with tart tang and acidity borne of crunchy red fruit flavours—currant, pie cherry and passionfruit—along with wisps of sharp spice. I enjoyed the tart acidity and am confident that with a pasta in tomato sauce, red pizza or lasagne pairing, most others will. (Vic Harradine)
California: White Wine
93
Beringer ‘Luminus’ Chardonnay 2017
Oak Knoll, California $44.95 (395699) 14.0% alcohol
Tropical fruit and mixed spice aromas open this medium-plus bodied, generously textured beauty. A palate-enveloping surge of spice-infused melon and lemon-lime with sharp mineral notes keep this tangy, crisp and refreshing from cork pop to last drop. A monumentally long finish replays palate flavours. Give this a go with pan-seared or grilled seafood or beer-can chicken. (Vic Harradine)
California: Red Wine
• The following 2018 Lapis Luna Wines ‘LapisLuna’ Zinfandel is made of 80% zinfandel/20% sangiovese all sourced from the Pauli Ranch in Mendocino. It was barrel aged for 10 months with 10% new French and American oak.
88
Lapis Luna Wines ‘LapisLuna’ Zinfandel 2018
North Coast, California $19.95 (17264) 14.3% alcohol
Lighter shaded than your typical zin, this medium-ruby with a garnet tinge unusual red blend offers earthy aromas along with discrete raspberry, tobacco and baking spice. This is medium-full bodied with sweet cherry pie filling and red plum flavours, complemented with mushroom and savoury notes all framed in mellow tannins and finishing on a sweet and earthy aftertaste. Pair with burgers or red sauce pizza. (Louise Boutin)
Argentina: Red Wine
• The following 2018 Kaiken ‘Ultra’ Malbec was sourced from 100% Malbec from three separate vineyards located in Valle de Uco sub-regions: Los Chacayes, Tunuyán, Paraje Altamira, San Carlos and Gualtallary, Tupungato from vineyards found between 1,200 and 1,600 meters above sea level. Fruit was manually harvested and sorted by hand on winery arrival. Juice was cold-macerated for 7 days at 10 °C with fermentation lasted 7 days at 26 °C in concrete tanks using selected and native yeasts. Post-fermentation maceration lasted 20 days with natural malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks. It matured in French oak barrels—1/3rd new/1/3rd second use/1/3rd third use—for 12 months then a further 6 months in bottle before released.
92
Kaiken ‘Ultra – Las Rocas’ Malbec 2018
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (50849) 14.5% alcohol
The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few. Aromas of dark berry fruit, spice and floral notes herald a medium-full bodied, well-textured and deftly balanced stream of palate flavours—bramble berry and blueberry decorated with spice and savory herbs—all underpinned by ripe tannin. There’s structure, good integration of oak along with a lengthy finish. Aerate/decant for three hours before service. Pour alongside grilled striploin, gourmet burgers or Sunday roast beef dinner. (Vic Harradine)
France: Red Wine
90
Vaucher Père et Fils Fleurie 2018
AOC Fleurie, Beaujolais $17.95 (534339) 13.0% alcohol
Don’t expect bubble gum or banana aromas from this medium-bodied Beaujolais cru, but rather red cherry compote, raspberry, fresh rose petal and a peppery note. It is fresh and vivid on the palate with tangy flavours of cherry, cranberry and pomegranate toned down with an earthy note and mellow, medium tannin. This is a perfect match with baked ham or red tuna sashimi. (Louise Boutin)
Portugal: Red Wine
• The following 2018 Carmim ‘Terra Lenta - Premium’ Red was sourced from a hand-harvested blend of 40% alicante bouschet – a teinturier grape with red flesh and red juice /30% aragonez, aka tempranillo/30% trincadeira that were all destemmed and crushed. Selected yeasts fermented at a temperature-controlled 26° C with pump-overs and 14 days of maceration. Drink now to 2024.
88
Carmim ‘Terra Lenta - Premium’ Red 2018
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $13.95 (646083) 14.5% alcohol
Cherry/berry aromas dominate of the nose supported by interesting notes of milk chocolate, anise, tobacco leaf and smoke. Dry, medium-full bodied with perceptible tannin and well-integrated alcohol, spiced plum, ripe cherry, vanilla and black pepper flavours flow effortlessly over the palate and into the generous finish. Enjoy this exceptionally well-priced red with grilled burgers. (Lisa Isabelle)
New in Vintages (available now in LCBO retail stores)
91
Wakefield ‘Jaraman’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Clare Valley and Coonawarra $24.95 (142398) 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of cherry, eucalyptus and cassis provide segue for a medium-full bodied, generously textured surge of palate flavours with passion fruit, pie cherry and black currant to the fore decorated with drying tannin, grilled savoury herbs and excellent tang and acidity. The finish and aftertaste linger with palate-flavour replays. Aerate/decant for two or three hours pouring with grilled beef generously rubbed with seasoned salt. (Vic Harradine)
Upstream in winecurrent
Vintages Release: April 1, 2021
90
Whitecliff Wines ‘Winemaker’s Selection’ Rosé 2020
Hawke’s Bay, North Island, New Zealand $14.95 (13297) 13.0% alcohol
This has an inviting light-salmon hue and lifted aromas of strawberry, watermelon and citrus. It’s creamy smooth with excellent mouthfeel and dishes up a delicious mouthful of fruit flavour—blood orange and ruby red grapefruit, spice—ginger and clove, and a boatload of tang-infused pizzazz. Not for sissies, this has verve and nerve throughout. Pour with prawn paella or a charcuterie board. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: April 3, 2021
• The following excellent 2019 Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir is the result of them being pioneers, and now 3rd generation, winemakers, in the Okanagan Valley with this varietal. It’s sourced from different clones in premium sites and cold soaked for five days, fermented separately on skins for 10-20 days before being pressed off and placed into 100% French Burgundian oak barrels for nine months.
93
Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir 2019
VQA Okanagan Valley, B. C. $34.95 (585760) 13.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of barnyard, beet root and earthy notes provide segue for a delightful mouthful of pure pinot noir ambrosia with red currant, passion fruit and lip-smacking tang and acidity to the fore. It envelops the palate with mixed spice and red currant jelly balanced nicely with mouth-watering tang. This is medium-weight with good mouthfeel, deft balance and a luxurious, lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour now alongside smoked duck breasts, pan-seared salmon fillet or a roast turkey with all the fixings or baked ham on the bone dotted with cloves. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: April 3, 2021
• All fruit in the following 2017 Château Mont-Redon red blend was hand-harvested from vineyards sporting small and large rounded stones—‘galets’ in local terminology—that store heat from the sun during the daylight hours to waft up unto the vines during the cooler evenings and nights caused by the prevailing Mistral wind. After harvest the grapes are destemmed, macerated and punched down during two to three weeks then malolactic fermentation takes place. Half the wine is then matured in 228L Burgundian barrels while half is kept in vats. Following careful selection of the best wines in the cellar, it’s bottled about 18 months after harvest,
92
Château Mont-Redon 2017
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $53.95 (959627) 15.0% alcohol
Aromas of dark cherry/berry fruit robed in spice and mocha precede a delicious stream of palate-bathing flavours of bramble berry and black plum interlaced with garrigue and exotic spice. This showcases firm structure and deft balance of fruit flavours, tangy acidity and ripe, soft tannin. It finishes with mouth-watering tang-infused palate flavours and a lengthy balanced and bountiful aftertaste. Pour alongside grilled rack of lamb or a striploin rubbed with © Hy’s Seasoning Salt. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: April 17, 2021
• The following 2018 Domaine Agnés et Didier Dauvissat Petit Chablis was sourced from estate vineyards with rocky, fossil-rich and limestone-streaked soils.
93
Domaine Agnés et Didier Dauvissat Petit Chablis 2018
AOC Petit Chablis, France $26.95 (18675) 13.0% alcohol
This is the most expressive Chablis I’ve tasted—it leaps from the glass with alluring aromas of caramel, poached pear and wisps of minerality before dazzling the palate with a myriad of delicious flavours with baked apple and ripe pear juxtaposed and deftly balanced with a racy rendition of lemon pie filling and a boatload of lip-smacking, mouth-watering tang and pizzazz that runs from the first drop to the final stop. Pour this value-laden gem with mussels steamed in white wine, garlic and leeks or try breaded and grilled calamari. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2017 Parker Station Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from 100% cabernet sauvignon carefully selected in the AVA of Paso Robles, then aged six months in 100% French oak before bottling.
92
Parker Station Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California $24.95 (17684) 14.0% alcohol
Intense aromas of black juicy cherry and bramble berry intertwine with exotic spice and black licorice. A medium-full weight, nicely textured river of crème de cassis and kirsch liqueur decorated with sweet vanilla, mouth-watering tang and savoury herbs that blanket the palate and infuse the balanced and beautiful finish and aftertaste. This sips well on its own and pours well with grilled steak, grilled burgers or pasta, tomato sauce and spiced Italian sausage. (Vic Harradine
Vintages Release: TBD, 2021
• The following 2018 Château Haut Bascla has accreditation for sustainability winegrowing. This red blend—80% merlot/20% cabernet sauvignon—was fermented by first separating the two grape varieties then fermented in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats to 30 °C with a micro-oxygenation system.
89
Château Haut Bascla 2018
AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 13.0% alcohol
A lifted nose of black licorice, dark berry fruit aromas and tarry notes precede a well-balanced flavourful stream of palate flavours with savoury herbs, tang-infused crunchy red fruit with pie cherry, red currant and wisps of soft tannin to the fore. This has good mouthfeel, persistent fruit flavour and racy tang throughout. It’s an uncomplicated red blend that’s easy on the credit card and easy drinking. Pour with burgers, grilled gourmet sausage or meat pies. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2018 Château Haut-Maziéres was sourced from 65% merlot/20% cabernet sauvignon/15% cabernet franc sourced from soils of clay and limestone. The winery has been sustainably accredited since 2014. After harvest, grapes were placed in stainless steel tanks with a micro-oxygenation system, then matured 12 months in oak barrels before bottling.
88
Château Haut-Maziéres 2018
AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 (487546) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of fresh and lively fruit—cherry, blueberry and floral notes waft easily from the glass. It blankets the palate with spine of acidity and pizzazz adorned with bramble berry and passion fruit and wisps of green savoury herbs. It’s medium bodied with good mouthfeel and hint of still-evolving tannin. It finishes with more of the same. Give this a go with a thick steak decorated with a chunk of blue cheese. (Vic Harradine)
• The Guinzano vineyard is 350 m above sea level and consists primarily of clay soils. This hand-harvested red blend is 70% sangiovese/15% cabernet sauvignon/15% merlot that was fermented on skins for 15 days in controlled-temperature concrete vats at 24 °C for two weeks followed by 12 months in French oak barrique then a further 12 months resting in bottle before release.
90
Fattoria La Torre ‘Guinzano Vineyard’ 2017
DOC San Gimignano Rosso, Italy $16.95 (480665) 14.0% alcohol
This is mellow and smooth from cork pop to last drop. Aromas of fennel, blackberry and mixed spice dominate the nose. It dishes up a stream of well-balanced, pleasingly delicious flavours—ripe mulberry, black currant and excellent tang and acidity—before replaying on the lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside your favourite grilled meat, you won’t be disappointed. (Vic Harradine)
Upstream in winecurrent
New in Consignment: slated for late-spring arrival
Order online from the following link Profile Wine Group.
• The following 2018 Aurelio Settimo Dolcetto d’Alba was sourced from 100% hand-picked Dolcetto grapes growing in calcareous soil in the larger region of Piedmont, Italy, which is the spiritual home of Dolcetto. Fashioned in the traditional manner—brief fermentation of seven days on skins with submerged cap and frequent breaking of the cap and pump overs followed by malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks then a further maturation from six to nine months in concrete tank before bottling.
90
Aurelio Settimo Dolcetto d’Alba 2018
DOC Dolcetto d’Alba, Italy $39.99 12.5% alcohol
This shows an orange and brick-like hue on the edges when tipped to the side. Fresh, lively aromas reveal themselves with an easy swirl or two—dark cherry/berry decorated with floral notes. It washes over the palate, light on its feet with crunchy red fruit—currant, cranberry and passionfruit—framed by a lip-smacking good, tang-infused acidity. It finishes with more of the same. Pour alongside spicy tomato sauce over your favourite pasta or try pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)
New in Consignment: slated for late-spring arrival
Order online from the following link Profile Wine Group.
• The following 2016 Aurelio Settimo Langhe – Nebbiolo was sourced from hand-harvested, bunch-selected younger nebbiolo vines facing the preferred South-East on calcareous soils. It was fashioned in the traditional method with a short fermentation of eight to ten days on the skins with submerged cap and frequent breaking of the cap and pump overs followed by malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks then a further maturation for 36 months in concrete tank then rested three months in bottle.
91
Aurelio Settimo Langhe - Nebbiolo 2016
DOC Langhe, Italy $39.99 14.0% alcohol
Ruby-hued when poured, aromas of violets and red and black berry fruit dominate the nose. A palate-pleasing, medium-bodied tangy river of racy red berry fruit and black Bing cherry emblazoned with drying tannin tugs lightly at the cheeks. It finishes with palate replays and a fairly lengthy, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Aerate/decant for three or four hours before pouring. It should shine alongside prawn and sausage paella. (Vic Harradine)
New in Consignment: available now
Order online from the following link Profile Wine Group.
• The following 2015 Aurelio Settimo Barolo was sourced from 100% hand-harvested nebbiolo grapes sourced from vineyards facing the preferred South-East and sporting calcareous soils. It had a rather lengthy fermentation of 15 – 20 days on skins with submerged cap and frequent breaking of the cap and pump overs of the must followed by malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks then ageing 18 months in older (12 – 18 years old) large (2500 L – 3500 L) French oak casks followed by six months maturation in new Austrian oak then a further six months in bottle before release.
92
Aurelio Settimo Barolo 2015
DOCG Barolo, Italy $54.99 13.5% alcohol
Red-orange hued when poured, aromas of violets and earthy notes meld with dark cherry/berry fruit. A well-balanced wash of tang-laden passionfruit and pie cherry intertwine with notions of cassis and ripe black plum enveloping the palate and persisting through the finish. It’s quite smooth with a lovely aftertaste that’s balanced on a pin and quite delicious. Aerate/decant for an hour or so and pour alongside osso buco. (Vic Harradine)
New in Vintages
Vintages Release: September 14, 2021
• The following 2015 Aurelio Settimo ‘Rocche Dell’Annunziata’ Barolo was sourced from 100% picked-by-hand, careful-bunch selected, nebbiolo grapes from vines with a South – South-West exposure. It had a lengthy fermentation of 15 – 20 days on skins with submerged cap and frequent breaking of the cap and pump overs of the must followed by malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks then ageing 12 months in cement tanks and 18 months in used (12 – 18 years) large (2500 L – 3500 L) French oak casks and new large Austrian barrels followed by a further six months in bottle before release.
94
Aurelio Settimo ‘Rocche Dell’Annunziata’ Barolo 2015
DOCG Barolo, Italy $55.95 (293761) 14.0% alcohol
This showcases complexity, balance, persistent purity of fruit and more than its share of gorgeous fruit flavours and excellent tang-laden pizzazz. It’s medium weight with good mouthfeel and a lengthy finish and aftertaste. Aromas of dark cherry, dried flowers and earthy bits abound interlaced with tarry notes and piquant spice. It flows over the palate with pleasing flavours of kirsch liqueur and plenty of tang. It finishes with more of the same through the lengthy and luxurious finish and aftertaste. Drink now after a three-hour aeration/decant with cassoulet or roast duck or tuck away for another three or four years of careful cellaring. (Vic Harradine)
Private order (consignment)
Order online from the following link Profile Wine Group.
• The following 2012 Aurelio Settimo ‘Rocche Dell’Annunziata – Riserva’ Barolo was sourced from hand-harvested older vines of nebbiolo (on average over forty years) with a South – South-West exposure. It had a lengthy fermentation of 15 – 20 days on skins with submerged cap and frequent breaking of the cap and pump overs of the must followed by malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks. This was aged 72 months—36 months in large (2500 L to 3500 L) old (15-18 years) French oak (Allier and Nevers) barrels and 36 months in concrete tanks before maturing six months in bottle pre-release.
95
Aurelio Settimo ‘Rocche Dell’Annunziata – Riserva’ Barolo 2012
DOCG Barolo, Italy $134.99 14.5% alcohol
From a truly outstanding vintage, lifted aromas of tarry notes, mixed spice and blueberry precede a medium-bodied deftly balanced flow of intense, palate flavours with dark bramble berry and juicy Bing cherry juxtaposed with gamy notes, tang-laden pizzazz and perceptible tannin throughout. This showcases depth, good structure, balance and longevity with miles to go before it sleeps. Cellaring two or three more years before serving will be handsomely rewarded. Pour with close friends and lamb tagine. (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.
91
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.
91
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.
91
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.
92
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)
92
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)
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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)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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)
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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)
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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)
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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.
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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.
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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)
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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)
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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)
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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)
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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.
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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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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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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.
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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, Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic