Search

March 14, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

Don’t miss taking a look at the many wines from New in Ontario Wineries in this newsletter and if you like what you see, you can easily go back to the most recent newsletters archived and dated February 26, 2022 and February 14, 2022 and you’ll find quite a few there that are still stocked in the LCBO, as well. Happy hunting!

95 points and over - One wine rang the 95 points and over bell in the following newsletter wine reviews: 2020 Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay earned 96 points @ $75.25 found under New in Classics Catalogue.
Over 50 – There are over 50 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers – There are 26 wines reviewed that have discounts up to $5 per bottle purchased. There are also two wines that give bonus Aeroplan points when purchased in-store, but not when purchased on-line.
Vic Picks – 2019 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Cabernet-Merlot earned 94 points @ $39.95 found under Ontario: Red Wine; 2021 Zuccardi ‘Serie A’ Torrontés earned 92 points $16.95 found under Argentina: White Wine; 2018 Santa Ema ‘Family Estate - Gran Reserva’ Carmenère earned 92 points @ $18.95 found under Chile: Red Wine; 2019 Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted – Red’) earned 92 points @ $19.95 found under New in LCBO; 2020 Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola - Limited Edition - Red’ Baco Noir – Merlot earned 92 points @ $18.95 found under Upstream in winecurrent; 2020 Finca Fella ‘Cala Rey’ Tempranillo-Syrah earned 88 points @ $10.75 found under New in LCBO.

Vintages Release: March 19, 2022

Fortified Wine

Portugal: Port

• Fonseca is now in its fifth generation of winemakers of the Guimaraens family who are revered in Portugal and also among Port-lovers world-wide. Late Bottled Vintage (those in the know call it ‘LBV’ now that you also know it, you can call it that, too) LBV Port is bottled after at least four to six years of aging in wooden barrel and, like Vintage port, was sourced from a single vintage. However, LBV Port is ready to drink upon purchase. This wine was not fined nor filtered so deserves to be decanted and poured through a strainer while being poured into the decanter before serving.

92
 Fonseca ‘Late Bottled Vintage Port’ 2015
 Product of Portugal $23.95 (87551) 20.0% alcohol
 Aromas of rich and luscious black fruit abound on the nose of this dazzling well-priced, high-octane Port. It’s smooth and mellow on the palate showcasing ripe black plum compote, sweet black cherry, figs, raisins and mocha and an underpinning of acceptable soft, ripe tannin on the palate, dry finish and aftertaste. You really can’t go wrong here given the price-quality balance that tips well in your favour. This is often opened after a meal with a few cheeses—Stilton is a blue-veined cheese that’s a match made in heaven as are shards of Parmigiano Reggiano. (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

90
 Ferrari Trento Sparkling Wine, Brut, Non-Vintage
 DOC Trento, Italy $24.95 (352153) 12.5% alcohol
 Aromas of tropical fruit, floral notes and baked apple introduce a mid-weight, nicely textured profusion of bubbles riding over the palate garnished with a tapestry of flavour—leesy/baked brioche notes interweaving with apple, poached pear and lemon curd—balanced and persistent through the lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

90
 Cave Spring Estate Chardonnay Musqué
 VQA Beamsville Bench $17.95 (246579) 13.5% alcohol
 Crafted from a chardonnay grape clone, this aromatic 100% musqué varietal charms with its ripe fruit aromas—pineapple, peach and pear plus citrus and white blossom notes. This stainless steel fermented, medium-bodied white is round and ample on the palate showcasing mature orchard fruit flavours coated with a touch of honey and good balance of acidity resembling well-made viognier. A gorgeous wine to drink now with grilled sushi or seafood. (Louise Boutin)

Ontario: Red Wine

• Grapes—merlot/cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc—for the following 2019 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Cabernet-Merlot were sourced from older vines that averaged over twenty years of age. This was hand-harvested gently destemmed and mechanically sorted. All juice was separated from the skins with no press wine added back. It is accredited as sustainably farmed and fashioned.

94
 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Cabernet-Merlot 2019
 VQA Short Hills Bench $39.95 (616433) 13.2% alcohol
 Lifted aromas of black plum, dark cherry and bramble berry abound. It captures the palate on entry with red fruit—currants and passion fruit—mingling with generous acidity and plenty of pizzazz. This showcases a supple underpinning of tannin and plenty of fruit that is, for now, slightly overshadowed by the still-evolving tannin. Give this another four to five years of careful cellaring or pour now after a four-hour aeration/decant with a premium cut of well-seasoned beef (© Hy’s of Canada - Seasoning Salt) grilled medium-rare. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: White Wine

92
Zuccardi ‘Serie A’ Torrontés 2021
 Cafayayate, Salta, Mendoza $16.95 (389262) 14.5% alcohol
This is a stellar example of Argentina’s flagship, and most planted, white grape variety. Distinctive aromas of nectarine, Mirabelle plum and floral notes rise from the glass with even the slightest swirl. It sports lively flavours that envelop the palate—citrus notes of grapefruit and lemon provide a gorgeous base of tang and crisp, refreshing acidity soon joined by hints of ripe peach and nectarine. This is medium-plus weight with delightful, creamy smooth mouthfeel on the palate and through the finish and aftertaste. It also showcases persistent purity of fruit, deft balance and pleasing lengthy aftertaste. Pour with lightly spiced Asian food or almost any manner of fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

• The following 2018 Catena Cabernet Sauvignon is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores. This 100% cabernet sauvignon is sourced across Catena’s high-mountain vines located in Primera Zona, Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco.

91
 Catena Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
 Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (985002) 13.5% alcohol
 The price-quality ratio swings wildly in your favour here. Tobacco, dark cherry/berry fruit and grilled savoury herb aromas abound. This gorgeous cab envelops the palate with a plush, full-bodied swath of ripe black plum, juicy black cherry and hints of cassis and mocha. It’s complex, deftly balanced and dense with a lengthy finish enhanced by lip-smacking tang and acidity. Give this a go with grilled gourmet sausage, steak or backyard burgers. (Vic Harradine)

90
Zuccardi ‘Q’ Malbec 2020
Valle de Uco, Mendoza $19.95 (723478) 14.0% alcohol
Fresh, lively, alluring aromas of red cherry, tobacco, black currant and hints of blueberry abound on the nose of this 100% malbec that was sourced from various vineyards that are 1000m to 1100m above sea level. It captures the palate with a surge of lively flavours with tangy pie cherry and red currant jelly most prominent along with black, juicy Bing cherry for balance. This is tangy and almost ready to drink with a solid underpinning of still-evolving tannin that can be easily ameliorated with a two-hour aeration decant, or two more years carefully cellared. Pour with your favourite grilled red meat. (Vic Harradine)

Chile: Red Wine

• 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
 DO Puento Alto $22.95 (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)

• The fruit for the following 2018 Santa Ema ‘Family Estate - Gran Reserva’ was sourced for the very heart of the Valle Del Cachapoal. Carmenère grapes were fermented in stainless steel tank for seven days at 30 °C with post fermentation maceration taking six days. Following malolactic conversion, the wine matured in 100% French and American barrels for 8 to 10 months. The price-quality ratio is skewed well in your favour. Stock up.

92
Santa Ema ‘Family Estate - Gran Reserva’ Carmenère 2018
 Valle Del Cachapoal, Chile $18.95 (21981) 14.0% alcohol
 Aromas of wild herbs and spices mingle with mocha and dark cherry/berry fruit. It blankets the palate with a gusher of flavours—black currant, blueberry and hints of dark bittersweet chocolate that persists to and through the finish and aftertaste. It’s medium-plus bodied with good concentration, texture and balance. It’s ready and rarin’ to go with a lovely underpinning of soft, ripe tannin. Pour with a cut of premium beef that’s grilled rare to medium-rare. (Vic Harradine)

South Africa: Red Wine

89
 Cathedral Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
 WO Paarl, South Africa $17.95 (328567) 13.0% alcohol
 Smoky, earthy and dried cherry aromatics waft from the glass of this medium-bodied red. There are a good deal of sweet, black, ripe cherry and plum flavours with hints of chocolate and tar in the involved flavour profile. All this is wrapped around perceptible tannins and oaky notes that may need some time to quiet down. Drink now with rare or medium-rare pepper steak. (Vic Harradine)

• New in LCBO Vintages Classics Catalogue: Order on-line beginning April 7/22 @ 8:30 AM

• The following 2020 Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay was sourced from the highest vines growing at 500m above sea level with all facing south. The vines are also planted at a dense five or six thousand root stocks per Ha resulting in premium hand-harvested fruit delivered at low yields. After fermentation the wine matured for seven to eight months in new oak barrels with regular stirring. After a light fining, the unfiltered wine is bottled and left to rest for several months in bottle before being released. If you cast bait in these high-end waters, reel in a case of six or more.

96
Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay 2020
AOP Limoux, France $75.95 (23919) 14.0% alcohol
Elegant, alluring aromas of baking spice, toasty notes, orchard fruit and almonds precede a dazzling surge of palate flavours with piquant spice, racy lemon zest plus sweet yellow plum and ripe white peach to the fore. This showcases deft balance, persistent purity of fruit, good mouthfeel and creamy-smooth texture, ending with a monumentally long and delectable finish and aftertaste. Good to go now and on to +2033. My highest tasting compliment; it took all my resolve to spit rather than swallow this wine. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

• The following 2019 Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted – Red’) was sourced from 62% gamay/24% merlot/9% cabernet franc/5% pinot noir grapes then aged separately in oak barrel with the final selection made by numerous and rigorous trial selections.

92
Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted – Red’) 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (86918) 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of dark berry fruit, mixed spice and wisps of cassis introduce a medium-plus bodied, well-balanced stream of palate flavours with black currant and gamy notes joined by tang-laden, excellent pie cherry to the fore. This is underpinned by soft, fine-grain tannin throughout. Pour on its own or with grilled steak or grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted-White) is a popular Vintages Essentials wine that was sourced from 80% riesling/10% gewürztraminer/10% chardonnay with each variety contributing to this crisp, refreshing gem.

92
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted-White’ 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (1578) 11.0% alcohol
Aromas of piquant spice, rosewater and citrus abound. An off-dry surge of pure ambrosia rolls over the palate with deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and pizzazz to and through the crisp and refreshing finish and aftertaste that adds mouth-watering lemon curd and lip-smacking Key lime to the palate flavours of honeydew melon, white peach and ripe apricot. What’s not to like?
Pour with medium-spiced Asian cuisine or your favourite sushi platter with pickled ginger and wasabi. (Vic Harradine)

88
Finca Fella ‘Cala Rey’ Tempranillo-Syrah 2020
Product of Spain $10.75 (22877) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of tobacco leaf, red and black cherry/berry fruit and grilled savoury herbs abound on the nose of this well-paced, well-priced Spanish red. It’s warm on the palate with oodles of tang and pizzazz along with an underpinning of still-evolving tannin. Palate flavours of dark black cherry and black currant persist to and through the finish and aftertaste. Aerate/decant an hour or two and pour with beef and mushroom pot pie or backyard burgers over spring, summer and fall. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

• LCBO Release for the next two Pelee Island wines: approx. May 16, 2022

• The following two wines are available now for pick up at the Pelee Island Winery in Kingsville ON or order online from the winery to be delivered to your home, office or licensed restaurant. Use the link to the winery above to order online and use curbside pick-up or to have delivered to your home, office and licensed restaurant. All orders over $100 for delivery in Ontario receive FREE shipping and all orders to ship Canada-wide over $200 receive FREE shipping except the following - QC, NL, NU, YK.

• The following 2020 Pelee Island Winery ‘Limited Edition - Red’ Baco Noir – Merlot is a blend of 60% baco noir/40% merlot with both varieties certified as Sustainable and certified Vegan-friendly.

92
Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola - Limited Edition - Red’ Baco Noir – Merlot 2020
VQA Ontario, Pelee Island $18.95 (265390) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of exotic incense, mixed spice and sprigs of savoury herbs are adorned with ripe mulberry, black currant and hints of black plum. A delightful river of red currant and pomegranate is juxtaposed with ripe, juicy black Bing cherry and crème de cassis on the palate and it persists to and through the dry finish and lengthy aftertaste. It’s medium-full bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel, wonderfully balanced and a lingering delicious aftertaste that’s underpinned by ripe, soft tannin. Pour with grilled red meat under a judicious rub of seasoned salt. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola - Limited Edition - White’ Pinot Gris-Auxerrois-Pinot Blanc is a blend of 33.5% pinot gris/33.5% auxerrois/33% pinot blanc that’s been certified as Sustainable and certified Vegan-friendly.

91
Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola-Limited Edition-White’ Pinot Gris-Auxerrois-Pinot Blanc 2020
VQA Ontario, Pelee Island $17.95 (256510) 11.5% alcohol
Delicate aromas of lily of the valley, citrus and notes of earthy mineral notes precede clean and refreshing palate-flavours of lemon-lime cordial and hints of pineapple that ride on a laser-like beam of citrus acidity with plenty of pizzazz from twist top to last drop. The finish and aftertaste replay the palate flavours; clean, crisp and refreshing. Pour with your favourite sushi platter, freshly shucked oysters or steamed mussels with fries. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Konzelmann Estate Winery was one of the early adopters in Niagara for vitis vinifera vines. You may purchase the six following wines from this website link -Konzelmann Estate Winery – and they will deliver to your home, licensed restaurant or office. You can also phone them during business hours – 905 - 935-2866.

92
Konzelmann Estate Winery Sparkling Rosé - Méthode Cuve Close - Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $19.95 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of apple and pear interlaced with red cherry and hints of red currant give way to a surge of flavours on the palate with tang-infused black Bing cherry and black plum to the fore. This delivers a profusion of bubbles; first in the mousse then in seemingly endless streams of bubbles winding their way to the top of the liquid in the glass. It’s deftly balanced with wisps of sweetness then a wonderful tang-laden finish and aftertaste. Pick up a few; the price quality balance tips well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)

93
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Vidal, ‘Golden Vintage’ 2018
VQA Ontario $14.95 11.5% alcohol
This opens with lovely aromas of pineapple, floral notes, pear and apple. It envelops the palate with streams of dazzling flavours—lemon chiffon pie, grilled pineapple and Bosc pear. This is medium-plus bodied with satin-smooth mouthfeel and oodles of pizzazz. It bows out in a crescendo on the lingering mouth-watering finish and aftertaste with piquant spice and plenty of tang-infused citrus fruit. Pour on its own or with chicken Cordon Bleu. (Vic Harradine)

92
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Vidal Blanc 2018
VQA Ontario $14.95 11.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of nectarine and mango precede dazzling light-medium bodied palate flavours of ripe yellow peach and Mirabelle plum juxtaposed with tang-infused lemon pastille and passionfruit. This showcases persistent purity of fruit, excellent balance, creamy-smooth mouthfeel and a lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. What’s not to like? Pour with moules et frites or grilled calamari rings with French fries. (Vic Harradine)

92
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Reserve Series – Barrel-Aged’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of toasty oak, green apple and ripe pear abound on the nose of this French oak-barrelled beauty. It’s deftly balanced with excellent fruit flavours of ripe peach, ripe pear and Delicious apple on the palate, adorned with baking spice and toffee notes, soon joined by tangy flavours of blood orange, lemon curd and notions of mineral notes on the finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside festive fowl with all the fixings or crown roast of pork. (Vic Harradine)

93
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Reserve Series’ Merlot - Shiraz 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 13.0% alcohol
Pipe tobacco, exotic sandalwood and pomegranate aromas abound. It rolls over the palate with delicious flavours of tang-laden pie cherry, grilled savoury herbs and ripe juicy black currant robed in piquant spice and wisps of black licorice. This is medium-plus bodied with textured mouthfeel and a long finish and aftertaste. It’s drinking well now and pours well with shepherd’s pie, tourtière or grilled steak. There’s good value here. (Vic Harradine)

91
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Baco Noir Semi-Dry 2020
VQA Ontario $14.95 11.5% alcohol
Gamy and dark cherry/berry fruit aromas dominate the nose in this gem. It rolls over the palate with a surge of smooth mellow flavours with maraschino cherry, bramble berry pie and pomegranate melding nicely with finish and aftertaste flavours of tangy red cherry, dark bittersweet chocolate and plenty of pizzazz from twist top to last drop. VQA wineries in Ontario are a hot bed of classy Baco Noir and this is certainly an up and comer that deserves attention. Pick up an armful and pour alongside grilled burgers, battered and fried chicken wings or your favourite pizza. (Vic Harradine)

• Order the following wine online for home, office or restaurant: delivery in Ontario is FREE on orders of $100 or more from this link - Vineland Estates Winery. The wine shop is open for Curbside Pickup 7 days a week, 11am-5pm. Purchase online from the above link or place your order at 905.562.7088 ext. 124. Restaurant is open for Takeout Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 6pm. Please order directly with the Kitchen at 905.562.7088 ext. 165. Best to check with the winery first as COVID-19 rules and regulations often change.

• The following 2019 Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling was sourced from the oldest commercial riesling vines in Canada. They were 42-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 2019. We all owe him a doff of the cap and a sincere thank you as it’s now the most planted riesling clone in Canada having delivered myriad wine trophies and awards here and abroad.

93
Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling 2021
 VQA Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (38117) 8.0% alcohol
 Mineral and herbal notes waft from the glass soon joined by floral notes and honey-drizzled, poached pear after a gentle swirl. It envelops the palate with a surge of pure ambrosia made up of tangy lime cordial and lip-smacking lemon curd and balanced by ripe apricot, sweet, grilled pineapple and notions of lemon chiffon pie. This is a perennial favourite at a very low price - now to March 27, 2022. Pick up a few and give this table-friendly riesling a chance to show off with your favourite spicy Asian dish. (Vic Harradine)
Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: April 2, 2022

• The following 2019 Claymore Wines ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ Shiraz was sourced 70% from GI Clare Valley and 30% from GI Limestone Coast with all being sourced from estate Shiraz, dry-grown vineyards and select grower‘s premium Shiraz vineyards.

92
Claymore Wines ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ Shiraz 2019
GI’s Clare Valley and Limestone Coast, Australia $24.95 (72652) 14.8% alcohol
Lively aromas leap from the glass with exotic spice and incense leading the charge followed up by toasty notes, ripe mulberry and oodles of red cherry/berry aromatics. A tang-infused stream cuts a wide swath over the palate accompanied by racy pie cherry and passionfruit along with plenty of wonderful pizzazz that softens to ripe dark cherry on the finish and aftertaste. There’s a soft, fine-grained underpinning of tannin that continues to smooth out on the finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with roast chook (Australian slang for roast chicken) or a feast of grilled snags (Australian slang for grilled sausages). (Vic Harradine)

LCBO Limited Time Offers:

• The following four white wines will receive a $2.00 discount for each bottle purchased from the price shown below from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

White Wines

87
 Anselmi ‘San Vincenzo’
 IGT Veneto, Italy $17.95 (948158) 12.5% alcohol
 An über-savoury nose of grassy notes and sprigs of savoury herbs dressed in piquant spice provide segue to this garganega blend. The mid-weight, lightly textured stream of palate-pleasing flavour skips over the palate with flavours of lemongrass, pear and wisps of apple persisting through the mid-length finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own as a pleasant pre-dinner sipper. (Vic Harradine)

• 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.

92
 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)

90
 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. Pick up a few.
(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)

• The following two white wines receive a discount of $3.00 per bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

• 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)

93
Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling
 VQA Niagara Escarpment $22.95 (38117) 9.5% alcohol
 Lifted aromas of lemony citrus, buckwheat honey and notions of petrol precede a dazzling off-dry surge of lemon-lime cordial, a bowl of tropical fruit—pineapple, mango, rambutan—along with oodles of tangy pizzazz persisting from the first drop through the palate to the delicious, balanced and beautiful finish and aftertaste. This is quite special. Pour on its own or with spicy Asian dishes—General Tso’s chicken, moo shu pork or tikka masala. Pick up an armful. Drink now to 2028. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wines

• The following twelve red wines receive a $2.00 discount for each bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

• The following Bodega Y Viñedos Catena ‘High Mountain Vines’ Malbec is Catena Zapata’s flagship malbec wine sourced from high mountain vines planted in four estate vineyards throughout Mendoza’s premium sub-regions. It spent 12 months in French oak barrels from new to second-year and third-year use. Catena Zapata was named, ‘The World’s Most Admired Wine Brand’ in 2020 by Drinks International. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pick up a case and drink over the next ten or more years.

93
 Bodega Y Viñedos Catena ‘High Mountain Vines’ Malbec
 Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (478727) 13.5% alcohol
 Aromas of sweet vanilla, oaky notes and leather precede a lively gusher of spice-laden dark cherry/berry fruit with black currant, red cherry and blueberry to the fore. This showcases its high altitude vineyards, deft balance, good weight and texture and plenty of tangy acidity throughout. It also delivers in spades through the delicious and lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside grilled rare to medium-rare beefsteak. (Vic Harradine)

90
 Dandelion Vineyards ‘Lionheart of the Barossa’ Shiraz
 Barossa, Australia $21.95 (167189) 14.5 % alcohol
 Produced from old-vine shiraz, many over 100 years of age, this value-laden beauty spent 18 months in French oak barrel and was left unfiltered before bottling. Abundant dark fruit aromas—blackberry, cassis and black currant—sprinkled with anise and baking spices rise easily from the glass. Dry, full bodied with velvety tannin, succulent dark fruit flavours dominate the palate adorned with spice and earthy notes while a note of mint permeates the long finish. Pair with herb-encrusted rack of lamb. (Lisa Isabelle)

• 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)

92
 J. Lohr ‘Seven Oaks’ Cabernet Sauvignon
 Paso Robles, California $23.95 (656561) 14.0% alcohol
 This is delicious, very good value, deftly balanced and smooth and mellow from cork pop to last drop. This opens with alluring aromas of black cherry, cassis and notions of sandalwood. It continues to tempt with palate flavours of black currant and black plum, ripe, but not jammy, that are adorned with excellent tang and hints of piquant spice. This is lengthy, balanced and beautiful on the finish and aftertaste. Pour with a prime cut of beef, grilled medium rare. (Vic Harradine)

90
 Le Volte dell’Ornellaia
 IGT Toscana, Italy $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
 M. Chapoutier ‘Les Vignes de Bila-Haut’ Côtes du Roussillon-Village
 AOC Côtes du Roussillon-Villages, France $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
 Remo Farina Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2014
 DOCG Amarone Della Valpolicella $39.95 (995910) 15.0% alcohol
 A red blend of indigenous grapes—50% corvina/20% corvinone/20% rondinella/10% molinara, Oseleta, Turchetta—this fills the room with delectable flavours of ripe bramble berry, raisin tart and cola notes. It blankets the palate medium-plus bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel and a boatload of warm comforting flavour—fig, dark cherry and black currant intertwined with excellent tang, grilled smoky herbs, mixed spice and mocha. It finishes lengthy and luxurious. (Vic Harradine)

91
 ring.bolt Cabernet Sauvignon
 Margaret River, Australia $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 wine from Rocca delle Macie is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores.

• The ‘Classico’ on the wine label in the following Rocca delle Macie Chianti Classico below alerts you this wine is from the heartland and original homeland of Chianti with ‘Chianti Classico’ considered the premium growing and winemaking sub-zone of the seven sub-zones in the now, quite large Chianti region in Tuscany.

90
 Rocca delle Macie ‘Famiglia Zingarelli’ Chianti Classico
 DOCG Chianti Classico, Italy $18.95 (741769) 13.5% alcohol
 Cedar, floral notes and mixed field berry fruit aromas precede a racy line of red currant and pie cherry palate flavours adorned with savory herbs and a lick of red licorice and hints of mocha. It’s medium-plus bodied with good mouthfeel and a lengthy dry, mouth-watering finish. Give this a go with pasta Bolognese or meat-laden lasagna. (Vic Harradine)

91
 Wits End ‘Luna’ Shiraz
 McLaren Vale, South Australia $17.95 (311258) 14.0% alcohol
 This is developing a following as each vintage cements its reputation as delivering value and great taste. Savory herbs and dark ripe fruit aromas—plum, bramble berry and cherry—herald smooth and mellow mouthfuls of juicy tang and oodles of flavour with pie cherry and ripe black currant melding with an underpinning of soft, ripe tannin. This is mid-full weight and nicely textured with good balance and charm. It’s good to go now served with well-seasoned, grilled medium-rare striploin. (Vic Harradine)

89
 Torres Gran Coronas ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon
 DO Penedès, Spain $19.95 (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)

• The following five red wines receive a $3.00 discount on the price shown below on each bottle purchased February 28 to March 27, 2022.

• 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
 DO Puento Alto $22.95 (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)

92
 Seven Falls Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
 Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Washington State $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)

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)

92
 Two Hands Wines ‘The Gnarly Dudes’ Shiraz
 Barossa Valley, South Australia $24.95 (660043) 13.8% alcohol
 Purple/black, almost opaque in the glass, this unleashes aromas of ripe black berry fruit with support from mixed spice and savory herbs. On the palate, crunchy red fruit—pie cherry and cranberry—meet up with ripe black fruit—currant and mulberry—in a delightful, delicious pairing that’s balanced, well paced and well priced. Flavours replay on the long, mouth-watering finish. This pours well on its own—with each sip as good, or better than the previous—and with rack of Australian lamb or grilled steak. (Vic Harradine)

93
 Zenato Amarone della Valpolicella Classico
 DOCG Amarone della Valpolicella, Italy $52.95 (413179) 16.5% alcohol
 Wood smoke, cedar and bramble berry fruit aromas provide segue for a rich, luscious, hi-octane, though deftly balanced and simply delicious stream of ripe fruit and soft tang with dried dark fruit, black berry and dark plum front and centre along with support from spice, earthy notes and notions of ripe red cherry. This is medium-plus weight with good texture, structure and a lingering full-of-flavour finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will receive a $2.50 discount for each bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022

93
 Tommasi Valpolicella Classico Superior ‘Ripasso’
 DOC Valpolicella Classico Superior, Veneto $24.95 (910430) 14.0% alcohol
 A quiet nose of sweet black berry fruit opens up a glorious experience for lucky tasters. The fruit-forward nature of this wine unleashes a salvo of flavours including rich and concentrated cherry and bramble berry infused with fruit cake spice and dark chocolate. The memorable finish has gobs of black sweet fruit and black pepper with a hint of cigar box. At this price, flip open the trunk and toss in a case. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will have a discount of $5.00 taken off the price shown below for each bottle purchased from February 29 to March 27, 2022.

92
 Umberto Cesari ‘Liano’ Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
 IGT Rubicone $27.95 (225086) 13.5% alcohol
 Red cherry/berry aromas intertwine with savory herbs and baking spice preceding a dark chocolate-tinged river of mixed dark berry fruit and crunchy red cherry flavours mingling and melding on the palate, balanced with structure and depth. It’s full bodied with satiny texture and lengthy, mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with beef and cheese manicotti. (Vic Harradine)

Other Wines and Spirits

• The following Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

• The following wine will receive a $3.00 discount for every bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

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)

Earn Aeroplan bonus points

• The following red wine will earn 120 Aeroplan bonus points for each bottle purchased from February 27 to March 26, 2022 on in-store purchases only, and not when purchased online.

• The following 7 Deadly Zins ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel is a Vintage Essentials wine always available in many LCBO retail stores. The weather patterns in this unique part of Lodi are quite good. This was matured for just under one year in American oak.

91
 7 Deadly Zins ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel
 Lodi, California $24.95 (59311) 15.0% alcohol
 Plum compote and crushed blueberry come to mind when nosing this ‘old vines’ zin, followed by raspberry, vanilla and cedar aromas emerging as you get deeper in the glass. A juicy flow of ripe blackberry, purple plum and raspberry glides on the palate with gentle heat and peppery notes. Tannins are present yet smooth and the sweet/savoury note in the finish makes you go back for more. Definitely a crowd pleaser, this full-bodied versatile red is a safe buy and is delicious with lamb burgers or glazed beef short ribs. (Louise Boutin)

• The following red wine will earn 40 Aeroplan bonus points for each bottle purchased from February 27 to March 26, 2022 on in-store purchases only, and not when purchased online.

91
Viña Perez Cruz ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon
 DO Maipo Alto, Chile $14.95 (694208) 13.5% alcohol
 The cool, elevated Maipo Alto region is the sweet spot for premiere Chilean Cab. There’s a 3% splash of Syrah and 1% ripple of Carmenère in this mid-weight, beautifully textured, crowd-pleasing gem. Aromas of rich black fruit, sweet vanilla and toasty notes herald a river of black cherry, juicy and ripe mulberry on the palate infusing the long finish. It sports good depth, complexity, oodles of charm and exceptional-value. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers and stay safe, Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic