March 27, 2022 Newsletter
Newsletter Highlights:
- 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 40 – There are over 40 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 22 wines reviewed that have discounts up to $5 per bottle purchased. There is also one wine that gives bonus Aeroplan points when purchased in-store, but not when purchased on-line.
- Vic Picks – Henry of Pelham ‘Special Select Late Harvest’ Vidal 2019 earned 93 points @ $19.95 found under Dessert Wine; Cygnus ‘Organic - Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava Non-Vintage earned 90 points @ $18.95 found under Sparkling Wine; 2020 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Good Kharma’ Chardonnay earned 90 points a@ $16.95; 2021 Malivoire Wine ‘Vivant’ Rosé earned 93 points @ $19.95 found under Ontario: Rosé Wine; 2018 Jim Barry ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz earned 94 points @ $22.95 found under Australia: Red Wine; 2018 Laura Hartwig ‘Block Nogales – Seleccion del Viticultor’ Cabernet Sauvignon earned 93 points @ $20.95 found under ‘New Vintage - in Vintages now’; 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay earned 93 points @ $21.95 found under New in Ontario Winery.
Vintages Release: April 2, 2022
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 also 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)
Dessert Wine
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Henry of Pelham ‘Special Select Late Harvest’ Vidal 2019
VQA Ontario $19.95 (395228) 375mL 10.0% alcohol
Aromas of honey-drizzled mango and caramel abound on the nose of this nicely balanced vidal blanc, Special Select Late Harvest gem. A succulent river of pure ambrosia blankets the palate on entry with sweet honey and ripe fruit flavours of apricot and peaches in syrup that is balanced by lemon citrussy notes on the back palate, finish and aftertaste. Pour with fruit flan dessert or on its own, as dessert. This is close to Icewine in enjoyment, without the usual price tag. (Vic Harradine)
Champagne
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Georges Gardet ‘Cuvée Saint Flavy Brut’ Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne $46.95 (924654) 12.0% alcohol
This has an attractive nose of mineral, floral and heady citrus notes. There’s a lovely attack on the palate with a rush of white grapefruit and green apple flavours infused with spice and mineral nuances. It’s medium in weight and texture and offers a lingering finish that’s zesty and clean. There’s enough oomph for it to be paired with light appetizers and the attractive ‘Champagne price’ allows it to be served as the welcoming wine at larger gatherings. (Vic Harradine)
Sparkling Wine
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Joseph Cattin ‘Brut Rosé’ Crémant d’Alsace Non-Vintage
AOC Crémant d’Alsace, France $19.95 (264572) 12.0% alcohol
This méthode traditionnelle bubbly opens with floral notes entwined with red cherry/berry aromas. A crisp, clean and refreshing line of bracing acidity carries flavours of lemon drop, Key lime and notions of red berry fruit across the palate infusing the lip-smacking finish. Pour alongside ceviche, freshly shucked oysters or pan-seared seafood under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Non-Vintage Cygnus Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava is, like all Cava, produced Méthode Traditionnelle—aka in the method of making Champagne with the 2nd fermentation in the bottle you purchase—as it is decreed in their wine laws that all Cava must be produced in this manner. This is a prime example of a value-laden sparkling wine.
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Cygnus ‘Organic - Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava Non-Vintage
DO Cava, Spain $18.95 (352856) 11.5% alcohol
This Méthode Traditionnelle, sparkling, organic gem was produced from the holy trinity of Cava grapes—xarel-lo 40%, parellada 30% and macabeo 30%. Lifted aromas of apple and pear interweave with mint and wisps of piquant ginger heralding flavours of apple, mineral/slate and strawberry wreathed in lemon curd and toasty notes. This has good mousse and a delightfully refreshing, lip-smacking aftertaste—certainly a cut above the norm. Pour with steamed mussels or pan-seared fish. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: White Wine
• The following taste-good, feel-good chardonnay from Flat Rock Cellars donates a portion of sales to ‘Feed Ontario’ (formerly, Ontario Association of Food Banks) from all sales of this wine via the LCBO and the winery door—both in person and on-line. To date, over $45,000.00 has been donated. The goal of Feed Ontario and of Flat Rock Cellars is to assist in ending poverty and hunger in Ontario. The following wine has been certified sustainable and showcases the dazzling 2020 vintage for all VQA Ontario wine appellations.
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Flat Rock Cellars ‘Good Kharma’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (356873) 12.5% alcohol
Beguiling aromas of exotic spice, savoury herbs and floral notes abound decorated with wisps of apple and citrus notes. It blankets the palate with a laser-like streak of racy acidity expressed as white grapefruit, fresh lemon juice and plenty of pizzazz. This is clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to last drop. Don’t hesitate to order a case that you can stretch to last until this time next year. Pour this with fish, shellfish or roast chicken or, if you wish, sip on its own, it’s lip-smacking, delicious. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO retail stores.
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Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay
VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 (573147) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of baked apple, cinnamon and notions of caramel abound. It gently washes over the palate with a touch of sweetness accompanied by tangy flavours of lemon-lime and flinty minerality. This is medium-bodied with good balance and textured mouthfeel. It finishes lengthy, crisp and refreshing with hints of grapefruit pith on the aftertaste. Pour alongside skillet-seared Atlantic salmon. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: Red Wine
• The following Malivoire Wine Company ‘Farmstead’ Gamay was sourced from Four Mile Creek, Beamsville Bench and Twenty Mile Bench with the average Brix at 22. 94% of grapes were destemmed and crushed with 6% of grapes being left in whole clusters. For alcoholic and malolactic fermentation 87% went to stainless steel while 13% was completed in concrete tank. The new wine was then divided by 2/3rds aged in stainless steel and the remainder sent to pre-loved older oak barrels. It was blended and bottled six months later. This wine is also a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO retail stores.
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Malivoire Wine Company ‘Farmstead’ Gamay
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (591313) 12.5% alcohol
Pipe tobacco and peppery piquant spice aromas show first on the nose soon joined by aromas of blueberry, black currant and dark plum, adorned by grilled savoury herbs. The palate’s treated to a medium-plus bodied, textured stream of creamy-smooth ambrosia showcasing deft balance, ripe fruit flavours of red currant, pie cherry and passionfruit juxtaposed with cherry clafoutie and ripe mulberry underpinned by soft, fine-grained tannin and plenty of tang and pizzazz. This is ready to drink now and on to 2024. Pour with grilled lamb loin chops or rye bread sandwiches of Montreal smoked meat. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: Rosé Wine
• The following Malivoire wine is a Vintages Essentials product always available in a number of select LCBO stores.
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Malivoire Wine ‘Ladybug’ Rosé
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (559088) 12.0% alcohol
Myriad red fruit aromas—strawberry, watermelon and ruby red grapefruit among them—precede a light-medium bodied, racy wash of palate flavours with passion fruit and red currant to the fore. It finishes with a blaze of lip-smacking tang reminiscent of the red grapefruit aromas on the nose. It’s clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to last drop. It pairs well with skinless Atlantic salmon pan-seared in butter or ham and cheese crust-less quiche. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2021 Malivoire Wine ‘Vivant’ Rosé is a blend of 88% pinot noir/12% pinot gris and is accredited sustainable in the vineyard and when applying winemaking practices. Estate-grown pinot noir and pinot gris was hand-harvested while still cool temperatures in early morning on September 14th and 23rd. The sugar level in the unfermented grape averaged 21.3 ° Brix. Fruit was transported quickly to the winery where it was pressed immediately after which the juice was chilled in a horizontal ‘dairy tank’ prior to controlled cool fermentation in stainless steel.
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Malivoire Wine ‘Vivant’ Rosé 2021
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (498535) 12.0% alcohol
A slight, pink-hue greets the eye while the nose takes in strong aromas of strawberry, cranberry and red cherry. It surges over the palate with a racy streak of tart rhubarb and strawberry pie, along with Meyer lemon and passionfruit. This is well paced, well-priced, well balanced and well… lip-smacking delicious from twist top to last drop. The winemaker suggests pouring with rainbow trout and I agree, especially when pan-seared then receiving a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. (Vic Harradine)
California: Red Wine
• The following 2018 Durant & Booth Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 87% cabernet sauvignon/6% petit verdot/5% merlot/2% petite sirah source from across Napa Valley including Calistoga, St. Helena and Rutherford appellations that spent 10 months maturing in 25% new French oak.
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Durant & Booth Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Napa Valley California $34.95 (16565) 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of dark cherry, plum compote with notions of milk chocolate, brown sugar and baking spice are gently revealed on the nose. Dry, medium-full bodied with silky tannins, ripe, dark fruit flavours, backed by a touch of piquant spice and sweet vanilla, last into the mid-length, warming finish. Enjoy alongside braised beef short ribs. (Lisa Isabelle)
Australia: Red Wine
• 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.
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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)
• The following 2018 Jim Barry Wines ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz was sourced from low-yielding shiraz vines grown on soils of rich loam over near-vertical sheets of rock. The now soil-filled passageways allow vine roots to work their way down to water from this nature-induced drainage system. It should be noted that Jim Barry Wines was proclaimed by James Halliday as 2020 Australian Winery of the Year; a much sought-after recognition and prize in Australia. They are also members of the prestigious, ‘Australia’s First Families of Wine’.
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Jim Barry ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz 2018
Clare Valley, Australia $22.95 (998476) 14.0% alcohol
Bramble berry, blueberry and ripe mulberry intertwine with peppery spice flavours on entry to the palate before joining up with baking spice and dark bittersweet chocolate mid-palate. This showcases good balance, a supple underpinning of polished, fine-grain tannin and plenty of excellent acidity and touches of elegance. It’s medium-bodied, nicely textured with a lengthy and balanced finish and aftertaste. Pour with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)
Upstream in winecurrent
LCBO Seasonal Release; April 1, 2022
• ‘The Merry Widow’, Catharine, had an interesting background. She only lived a little over 44 years, but managed to outlive her philandering husband, Henry, and is now thought of by the present family as having had a little dance after his ‘sudden’ passing – hence the moniker, ‘Merry Widow’. This wine had three-hour skin contact providing the brilliant colour. It was fermented at 14 – 16°C in stainless steel tanks preserving the freshness of the fruit flavours.
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Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Merry Widow’ Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (24972) 11.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of cherry/berry fruit and mixed spice precede a river of racy palate flavours with passionfruit, pomegranate and pie cherry to the fore. Palate flavours persist to and through the dry finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. This sustainably grown rosé is satin-smooth with excellent mouthfeel and oodles of pizzazz. It pours well with pan-seared Atlantic salmon under a generous squeeze of fresh lemon or with well-seasoned roast chicken or with pizza with white cheese dotted with smoked salmon and dill. Pick up a few at this price. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release; April 30, 2022
• The following 2019 Lapis Luna Wines ‘Red Wine Blend’ was sourced from 45% malbec/35% cabernet sauvignon/25% merlot from 2 AVA’s with 93% from Mendocino and 7% from Rockpile, North Coast, California. All fruit was gently destemmed and crushed then inoculated by commercial yeast. Each fermentation was pumped-over twice daily with temperature peaking at 90 °F, then macerated from 12 to 28 days then aged for 20 months in French oak barrels with 10% new and 90% neutral.
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Lapis Luna Wines ‘Red Wine Blend’ 2019
North Coast, California $19.95 (24100) 14.3% alcohol
Lively and lifted aromas waft easily after a gentle swirl—red cherry, red currant and piquant spice adorned with savoury herbs and wisps of campfire smoke. It’s smooth, balanced and mellow on the palate with delectable flavours of black currant, ripe juicy black cherry and excellent tang and pizzazz from notions of pomegranate and passionfruit. The monumentally long finish and aftertaste replay the delicious palate flavours. Pour alongside your favourite cut of beef steak well seasoned with seasoned salt. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2020 Palliser Estate Wines ‘Pencarrow’ Sauvignon Blanc was sourced from two estate-grown plots with 57% from older vines in their Cloustin Vineyard and the balance from their ‘East Base’ vines. The fruit was pressed to stainless steel vats then cold settled and cold fermented to 13.5% alcohol. It rested on its lees and was stirred post fermentation then bottled January, 2021.
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Palliser Estate ‘Pencarrow’ Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Marlborough, North Island, New Zealand $18.95 (148429) 13.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of savoury herbs and musky thiol leap from the glass after even the slightest swirl. It blankets the palate with a surge of delightful flavours with lime cordial, lemon curd and blood orange to the fore. It’s soon joined by passion fruit and lime- and sugar-drizzled guava. This is nicely balanced with persistent purity of fruit from twist top to final drop. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few and pour with freshly shucked, briny, Malpec oysters decorated with a few drops of hot sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon and a pinch or two of horseradish or steamed green-lip mussels and fries. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages - Order by Online Only starting May 14, 2022
• The following 2018 Jim Barry ‘Single Vineyard – The Farm’ Cabernet - Malbec is a blend of 91% cabernet sauvignon planted in 1997 and 9% malbec planted in 1998 both sourced from plots on the Eastern Ranges from their Lodge Hill estate vineyard. This wine is to pay homage to the foresight of the iconic, late, great Jim Barry. The Jim Barry team of today is still basking in the limelight of being named ‘2020 Australian Winery of The Year’ by James Halliday’s Wine Companion. They are also one of the founding members of the über-exclusive Australia’s First Families of Wine; click on their name using the previous link to learn why they gained an invitation and see the other nine members and use Jim Barry Wine plus those nine other names as a compass for family-owned and managed wineries making fine wines from Australia.
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Jim Barry ‘Single Vineyard – The Farm’ Cabernet - Malbec 2018
Clare Valley, Australia $29.95 (20881) 13.9% alcohol
Aromas of violets, earthy notes and ripe mulberry precede a structured mouthful of deep black cherry/berry flavours intertwined with mocha and wisps of earthy notes and sprigs of savoury herbs. It’s medium-full bodied with lots of mouthfeel and plenty of tang and acidity making for a dry finish and aftertaste. This is good to go now with at least another15 years of careful cellaring. Pour with grilled rack of lamb or a thick, premium cut of beef steak grilled medium-rare. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release; May 21, 2022
• The following 2019 Gérard Bertrand ‘Terroir Fitou – An 990’ Grenache/Carignan was sourced from hand-picked and hand sorted grenache and carignan grapes with carignan fermented by carbonic maceration for 10 to 15 days and the grenache fermented by traditional fermentation and aged 12 months in barrel. The Year 990 is prominent on the front wine label and on the back label it’s explained ‘why’ in French and English.
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Gérard Bertrand ‘Terroir Fitou – An 990’ Grenache/Carignan 2019
AOP Fitou, France $17.95 (403683) 14.5% alcohol
Lively aromas of red cherry berry fruit with piquant spice and sprigs of savoury herbs waft easily from the glass. It washes over the palate with a balanced and bountiful stream of piquant spice and grilled savoury herbs adorned by bramble berry fruit, ripe black cherry and a tang-infused rush of pie cherry. The finish and aftertaste linger and provide a dry, lip-smacking experience. Pour with chorizo and prawn paella or your favourite meat-lovers pizza. The price-quality balance tips in your favour, pick up an armful. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: TBD, 2022
• The following 2015 Heredad de Ureña ‘Santo’ Tempranillo 2015 was hand-harvested and sourced from estate-grown vineyards of 100% tempranillo grapes. It underwent traditional maceration with manual cap punching followed by malolactic fermentation and 10 months of maturation in 80% French and 20% American new oak barrels.
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Heredad de Ureña ‘Santo’ Tempranillo 2015
Vino De La Tierra De Castilla y Leon, Spain $16.95 (629832) 13.0% alcohol
Darker in color than your typical Tempranillo, it also presents with unexpected aromas—purple plum, ripe blackberry, cola and a hint of menthol. A cooling and smooth stream of ripe dark fruit flavour travels the palate picking along the way sweet vanilla and oak notes trailing in the dry, fruit-forward finish. Not your typical medium-bodied Spanish red but it would pair well with gourmet burgers or grilled artisan sausages. Drink now. (Louise Boutin)
• The following wine was sourced from 95% Tempranillo and 5% from garnacha/graciano/mazuelo grapes that were hand-picked then destemmed before 18 days of alcoholic fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks then undergoing malolactic conversion then 24 months ageing in an even split between French and American oak barrels.
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Bodegas Puelles ‘Gran Reserva’ Tempranillo 2008
DOCa Rioja, Spain $24.95 14.0% alcohol
Time has worked its magic in this Gran Reserva Rioja offering complex aromas—leather, sandalwood, liquorice, dry rose petal and a hint of vanilla. This is velvety smooth on the palate with flavours of red and black cherry plus tangy raspberry fully integrated with dry herbs and earthy notes. This value-packed medium-full-bodied mature red is ready to drink and will be outstanding with well-seasoned grilled lamb chops or a selection of aged hard cheese. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2016 Bodegas Puelles ‘Crianza’ Tempranillo is 95% tempranillo and 5% garnacha. It was hand-harvested and underwent alcoholic fermentation for 18 days after being destemmed. It then matured for 12 months in 50% French oak barrels and 50% American oak barrels.
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Bodegas Puelles ‘Crianza’ Tempranillo 2016
DOCa Rioja, Spain $16.95 14.0% alcohol
Dry cherry, cedar, caraway and dill aromas mingle harmoniously in this top-value Rioja. Sour cherry flavour takes the initial lead on the palate followed with blackberry, earthy notes and smoked meat character. Tannins are ripe but still compact, adding chewiness to the long, savoury, dry finish. This will further evolve with additional cellaring but if uncorked now, aerate/decant two hours and pair with mild sausage-stuffed roasted red pepper or mushroom risotto. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2021 Provolo ‘Costa del Monte’ is a blend of hand-harvested 60% müller-thurgau/40% chardonnay sourced from vines on average at 10-years old from vineyards at 900m above sea level planted in marl and limestone soil. The grapes macerated for six hours at 10 °C then fermented for 20 days at 10 – 14 °C in stainless steel vats then matured in stainless steel tanks followed by two months in bottle before release. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour, pick up a few.
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Provolo ‘Costa del Monte’ 2021
IGT Bianco Veneto, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
This interesting white blend offers pretty aromas of field flowers, honeydew melon, peach and fresh raw fennel. Nicely textured on the palate it carries beautiful fresh flavours in line with the aroma profile, finishing on lemon drops notes and mineral flair. Lots of value in this medium-bodied gem, ideal to sip on its own of pair with light-cream shrimp pasta. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2021 Cantine Monfort ‘Casata Monfort’ Pinot Grigio was sourced from 100% pinot grigio grapes. The price-quality ratio skews in your favour.
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Cantine Monfort ‘Casata Monfort’ Pinot Grigio 2021
DOC Trentino, Italy $17.95 12.5% alcohol
Muted on the nose at first, this young wine slowly opens up to aromas of ripe pear, honeysuckle and iodine. It shows a nice medium-bodied weight on the palate, offering yellow apple and pear flavours and a touch of pithy citrus and a nice saline note in the finish and aftertaste. This is a very nice expression of the pinot grigio style with great acidity that would pair really well with fish & chips or popcorn shrimps. (Louise Boutin)
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Valpanera Pinot Grigio 2021
DOC Friuli, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
This freshly out-of-the-tank white from North-eastern Italy opens the door with aromas of pear, white almond, lemon peel and a flinty note. It goes down easily with pear and cantaloupe flavours quickly caught-up with pithy citrus and mineral characters trailing in the finish and aftertaste. This calls for a salty appetizer or main course. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2021 Agriverde ‘Vino Biovegan - Eikos’ Pecorino is 100% Pecorino. It’s certified vegan-friendly and organic and was bottled un-fined and un-filtered and only saw stainless steel tanks, no oak. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; make a multiple purchase.
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Agriverde ‘Vino Bio-vegan - Eikos’ Pecorino 2021
IGP Terre di Chieti, Italy $15.95 13.0% alcohol
This crisp organic white is un-fined and unfiltered making it vegan friendly. It pleases the senses with lovely aromas of green apple, pear, honeydew melon and a hint of flint. It shows good weight and a round texture on the palate, supporting delicious fresh orchard fruit flavours along with zesty lime and a touch of white pepper at the end. This is medium-body and ready to go with goat cheese crostini or pesto pasta. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2021 Agriverde ‘Vino Biologico – Riseis’ Pecorino is certified organic and has 100% Pecorino grapes that were fermented in stainless steel and saw no oak. What’s not to like? Stock up.
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Agriverde ‘Vino Biologico – Riseis’ Pecorino 2021
IGP Terre di Chieti, Italy $15.95 13.0% alcohol
Delicate white flowers aromas mingling with peach and zesty notes introduce a creamy flow of delicious flavours—fresh apricot, pear—coupled with pink grapefruit, a hint of balancing bitterness and white pepper pleasantly tingling the tongue while trailing a peachy note in the finish. This is an excellent medium-bodied white to pair with calamari or herb marinated chicken brochettes on the grill. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2012 Tenute Salvaterra, Cave de Prun ‘Classico – Amarone – Riserva’ is a red blend of 65% corvina/20% rondinella/10% corvinone/5% ‘other’ autochthonous grape varieties. The average age of all the vines is 19 years old. These grapes were fermented for thirty days at controlled temperature of 18 – 20 °C. This is drinking well now after a two-hour aeration/decant and on to 2028 with careful cellaring. If you cast bait in these pricey waters, reel in a few of these.
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Tenute Salvaterra, Cave de Prun ‘Classico – Amarone – Riserva’ 2012
DOCG Amarone Della Valpolicella, Italy $63.95 16.5% alcohol
An impressive 16.5% alcohol level doesn’t get in the way of a beautiful exotic bouquet of dry cherry, fig, patchouli, sandalwood and clove. It glides on the palate with grace and total absence of heaviness, offering dry fruit flavour along with dark rum, mocha and mixed baking spice, all enveloped in a warm and soft blanket of polished tannins. This is full-bodied with elegance, bright acidity and the perfect red sipper for nibbling on hard aged cheese and roasted nuts. It would also be superb with slow-cooked pot-roast with root vegetables. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2021 Vigna Madre ‘Iava - Organic’ Pecorino was sourced from 100% accredited organic, pecorino grapes from vines at 380 M above sea level with the yield per hectare at 100 quintals. This was fermented in stainless steel tanks and matured in bottle at a controlled temperature.
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Vigna Madre ‘Iava - Organic’ Pecorino 2021
IGP Terre Di Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of jasmine and chamomile meld nicely with saline minerality and lemon tree floral notes. It spreads over the palate creamy smooth and nicely textured with good mouthfeel and laser-like stream of tang-laden mineral notes and Meyer lemon along with ripe and fleshy yellow peach and ripe nectarine adorned with sprigs of mixed dried herbs. It finishes crisp and refreshing. Pour alongside pan-seared scallops or prawns, or line-caught white fish grilled on the barbecue. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2021 Vigna Madre ‘Becco Reale - Organic’ Pecorino was sourced from 100% accredited organic pecorino grapes from vines at 280 M above sea level with the yield per hectare at a low 80 quintals. This was fermented in stainless steel tanks and matured in bottle at a controlled temperature. Remove from your home refrigerator twenty minutes before serving. If you have a quick-read thermometer, 10 °C is a good service temperature.
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Vigna Madre ‘Becco Reale - Organic’ Pecorino 2021
IGP Terre Di Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy $18.95 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of musk melon, mint and apricot precede a fleshy, deftly balanced stream of palate flavours with ripe Mirabelle plum and white nectarine riding a delicious wave of blood orange and white grapefruit to and through the lingering, lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. This showcases persistent purity of fruit, savoury herbs, good texture and oodles of tang and pizzazz. Pour with prawn and chorizo paella or steamed lobster tails dipped in clarified butter under a squeeze of fresh lemon. You may want to pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)
New Vintage - in Vintages now
• The following 2021 Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Goat Lady’ Chardonnay was sustainably grown in the VQA geographical-delineated region of Niagara Peninsula. It’s 100% Chardonnay fermented and aged in American oak for 7 months and underwent partial malolactic fermentation. In the property adjacent to where the three Speck brothers lived as children, a lady named Marion kept goats. She also put out warm bowls of goats’ milk for the boys’ pet dog, Boswell. It turned out Boswell proved himself a quick study and soon moved in with Marion.
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Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Goat Lady’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (16792) 12.8% alcohol
Aromas of green apple and ripe pear mingle with apricot and Mirabelle plum in the nose. It blankets the palate with a barrage of pure ambrosia with flavours of caramel and baking spice interlaced with sweet white peach juxtaposed with racy lemon curd. This showcases exceptional- value for money, deft balance, creamy-smooth mouthfeel, a lingering dry and lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. What’s not to like? It’s ready to drink now and on to 2026. Give this a go with a pairing suggested by the winery—lobster linguini with tarragon cream sauce. (Vic Harradine)
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Laura Hartwig ‘Block Nogales – Seleccion del Viticultor’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
DO Santa Cruz, Valle de Colchagua, Chile $20.95 (21951) 14.0% alcohol
A gentle swirl will bring on dark cherry/berry fruit aromas along with grilled savoury herbs and
hints of crème de cassis. It spreads over the palate with juicy flavours of ripe black Bing cherry and black plum adorned with sweet vanilla and boatloads of tang-infused passionfruit and plenty of pizzazz that persist through the finish and aftertaste. This is medium-plus bodied with excellent mouthfeel and deft balance throughout. It begins and ends with smooth, mellow fruit flavours and soft, fine-grained tannin that provides interest and a good underpinning. Pour with your favourite cut of beef that you grill on the barbecue. (Vic Harradine)
New in Ontario Wineries
• For daily home, office or restaurant delivery for the following wine is sold at the winery only, order online from this link Malivoire Wine Company with FREE shipping on orders of $99 or more, or $20 credited next business day towards delivery outside Ontario and Québec. Phone 905-563-9253 Monday to Friday 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays and noon to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday for information and for locals to access curbside pickup instructions. Their retail shop is now open - 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays, and noon to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. There are guidelines due to COVID-19 that change often, best to phone or email first (the website has a space to type and is linked to their email).
• The following 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay reflects the terrific 2020 Vintage in all Ontario VQA appellations. Grapes were sourced from three prime sites with 9.0% on September 10 from the Estate Vineyard/16.0% on September 18 from the Mottiar Vineyard and 75.0% from September 19 to 22 from the Moira Vineyard. Fruit was whole-cluster pressed with 68% of the juice finishing primary fermentation in stainless steel tank while resting on its lees and 20% rested in steel barrels and 12% matured in neutral French oak. The finished wine was blended in June 2021 and bottled two months later. The price-quality balance tips in your favour; pick up a half-dozen or so and you’ll receive FREE shipping to your office, licensed restaurant, or home.
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Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of honeydew melon, floral and savoury notes add garnish to the predominantly orchard-fruit aromas of ripe pear, Mirabelle plum and ripe apricot. A medium-bodied, nicely textured, tang-infused stream of palate flavours showcase lemon curd, lime cordial and green apple decorated with baking spice. There’s excellent persistence and purity of fruit, deft balance and plenty of pizzazz on the palate, finish and aftertaste. In a word, this is delicious. Give this a go with your favourite sushi platter, line-caught pan-seared freshwater fish or Sunday dinner roast chicken with roast root veggies done in the oven around the chicken. (Vic Harradine)
LCBO Limited-time offers - Save on these popular products from March 28 to April 24, 2022
• The following four white wines receive a $2.00 discount per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022
White Wines
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Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Black Sheep’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (80234) 10.5% alcohol
Cascading aromas of floral notes, piquant minerality and notions of petrol roll easily from the glass. It blankets the palate with off-dry flavours of sweetened Meyer lemon, and lime cordial that replay on the finish and aftertaste with lip-smacking and mouth-watering variations that add mineral and green apple to the mix. This sips beautifully on its own and you won’t find many better matches than spicy Asian cuisine like moo shu pork or General Tso’s chicken; and… you won’t find many high-quality rieslings at this price; stock up while you can. (Vic Harradine)
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Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, South Island $19.95 (35386) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of gooseberry, canned peas and piquant spices/herbs jump from the glass. It’s racy and tang-laden showcasing quintessential Marlborough flavours with passion fruit, citrus and tropical fruit interwoven on the palate persisting through the crisp, refreshing aftertaste. Mid weight with good mouth feel, pour alongside chèvre or sea food—mussels, fish or calamari. (Vic Harradine)
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Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay
VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 (573147) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of baked apple, cinnamon and notions of caramel abound. It gently washes over the palate with a touch of sweetness accompanied by tangy flavours of lemon-lime and flinty minerality. This is medium-bodied with good balance and textured mouthfeel. It finishes lengthy, crisp and refreshing with hints of grapefruit pith on the aftertaste. Pour alongside skillet-seared Atlantic salmon. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Susana Balbo ‘Crios’ Torrontés is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores. This wine was sourced from hand-harvested 100% Torrontés fruit from Salta and Uco Valley in Mendoza at an elevation of 1700 meters above sea level. It was fermented at 12-14 °C and left on its lees for three months to enhance the wine. Susana Balbo is one of the planet’s premier wine makers. This white gem punches well above its price.
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Susana Balbo ‘Crios’ Torrontés
Cafayate Valley, Salta, Valle de Uco, Argentina $14.95 (1834) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of rosewater, piquant spice and tropical fruit provide segue to a crisp, clean and refreshing wash of tang-infused flavour with lemon zest, white grapefruit and hints of orange marmalade and mineral notes to the fore. It’s medium bodied with firm texture and mouthfeel and plenty of acidity and pizzazz from twist top to last drop. Pour on its own over the next 12 or so months or alongside pan-seared fish or grilled calamari, both under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)
Red Wine
• The following six red wines receive a discount of $2 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.
• The following Bodegas Lan Crianza is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO stores. It’s also an inexpensive way to taste what will be a $30 or $40 wine when released from the winery some five or more years from now as a ‘Reserva’ or a ‘Gran Reserva’ wine.
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Bodegas Lan Crianza
DOCa Rioja, Spain $16.95 (166538) 13.5% alcohol
Sexy aromas of exotic spice and incense interweave with soft, ripe, dark berry fruit and flecks of mocha. It bathes the palate with a rich and balanced wash of black raspberry and dark cherry flavours underpinned by ripe chalky tannin and framed by excellent acidity and purity of fruit. It’s medium-plus bodied with deft balance and a lengthy finish. Pour on its own, after a two-hour aeration/decant or alongside prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)
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Majella ‘The Magician’ Cabernet/Shiraz
Coonawarra, South Australia $19.95 (142018) 14.5% alcohol
Exotic spice, tobacco leaf, campfire smoke and black plum aromas on the nose, this streaks across the palate with red and black currant, sour cherry and oodles of tang. It’s medium-plus weight with generous mouth feel and a lengthy, mouth-watering aftertaste of red berry fruit and spice. Serve with red pizza or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)
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Meiomi Pinot Noir
Monterey/Santa Barbara/Sonoma, California $22.95 (130138) 13.7% alcohol
Ripe, black and red fruit and espresso roast aromas swirl from this medium-plus bodied, full-Monty, well-textured red. It envelops the palate with a river of sweet jammy flavours—black currant, ripe mulberry and Bing cherry—intertwined with kirsch liqueur, sweet vanilla and toasty/oaky bits. Palate flavours persist through the mocha-laden finish and aftertaste with a slight bit of tang. Pour with grilled pork back ribs brushed with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)
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Mitolo ‘Jester’ Shiraz
McLaren Vale, South Australia $23.95 (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)
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Monte Zovo ‘Sa’ Solin’ Ripasso Valpolicella
DOC Valpolicella Ripasso, Italy $19.95 (650713) 14.0% alcohol
Campfire aromas mingle with gamy notes and dark berry fruit on the nose of this rich, ripe Ripasso. A surge of sweet ripe fruit and toasty/oaky notes blanket the palate adorned with spice, still-evolving tannin and crunchy red fruit—cranberry, currant and raspberry. It finishes dry with good tang and acidity. Paired and poured well with manicotti or pasta puttanesca sauce with garlic toast. (Vic Harradine)
• 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.
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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. Pour with lasagna, pasta in tomato sauce or meat-laden pizza with a spicy red sauce. (Vic Harradine)
• The following red wine receives a discount of $2.50 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.
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Penfolds ‘Koonunga Hill’ Shiraz – Cabernet
South Australia $19.95 (285544) 13.5% alcohol
This is rich and perfumed on the nose releasing dark dusty aromas of cherry, mint and mixed dark berry fruit. On the palate there’s a delicious wave of flavour with mouth-coating succulent Bing cherry mingling with ripe mulberry and lip-smacking tart cranberry. It finishes balanced, lingering and delicious. Leaving little to be desired, it’s full value, and then some. (Vic Harradine)
• The following three white wines receive a discount of $3.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.
• There’s very good value in the following premium Beringer Napa Chardonnay. Grapes sourced from multiple vineyard parcels were fermented in 25% stainless steel and 75% French oak followed by eight months barrel aging before bottling.
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Beringer Vineyards Napa Valley Chardonnay
Napa Valley (84988) $26.95 14.1% alcohol
The nose leads with lemon, lime zest and red apple adorned with a pleasant floral note, hints of spice and toast. Dry and medium bodied with balancing acidity, the generous mouthfeel transports flavours of Meyer lemon, pear and Gala apple through the medium-long finish before a mineral note appears on the aftertaste. Sip on its own or alongside simply-prepared roast chicken. (Lisa Isabelle)
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Oyster Bay Chardonnay
Marlborough, New Zealand $19.95 (326728) 13.5% alcohol
Tropical fruit, citrus and sweet vanilla aromas abound on this tangy, generously textured, value-packed beauty. Rivers of nicely balanced flavour pour from the bottle with lemon chiffon pie, crisp grapefruit and spiced yellow plum to the fore. It’s mid weight sporting a mid-length finish that’s crisp and refreshing. Pour alongside grilled white fish, roast chicken or roast pork. (Vic Harradine)
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Thirty Bench ‘Winemaker’s Blend’ Riesling
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)
Red Wine
• The following wine receives a discount of $1.00 per bottle purchased off the price shown below from March 28 to April 24, 2022.
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El Gorú Monastrell/Syrah/Petit Verdot
DOP Jumilla $13.95 (443945) 14.0% alcohol
This red blend is dominated by tart acidity, piquant spice and crunchy red fruit—currant, cranberry, pie cherry. It’s medium weight with good texture and a lengthy, tart and racy finish and aftertaste underpinned by drying tannin. Aerate/decant for two hours before serving—give it a go with pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 4 red wines receive a discount off the price shown below of $2.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.
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13th Street Gamay Noir
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (177824) 13.0% alcohol
Smoke, spice and gamy notes roll from this juicy, lively, rustic gamay. The palate’s treated to a medium-bodied, nicely textured mouthful of red and dark berry fruit robed in excellent racy acidity along with mixed spice and bacon notes persisting through the dry finish. For full enjoyment, aerate/decant a couple of hours before pouring. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores. The discounted price ($13.95) makes this worthy of picking up an armful.
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Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti
DOCG Chianti, Italy $15.95 (111641) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of cherry/berry fruit and floral notes introduce a medium-bodied, nicely textured stream of lively, tang-laden palate flavour with red currant, ripe black cherry and passionfruit. This is primarily sangiovese with a cup or two of cabernet sauvignon and merlot. It’s medium weight, nicely textured with good red fruit flavour framed with tang and underpinned by wisps of soft tannin. A wash of pie cherry and red currant jelly races over the palate persisting through the finish and adorned with wisps of tannin on the aftertaste. Best poured with pasta in a tomato-based sauce; try spaghetti Bolognese or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Kaiken ‘Seleccion Especial’ Malbec was sourced from 100% malbec hand-harvested from vineyards at 950 metres above sea level in Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo. Fruit was hand-picked while berries were hand-selected once in the winery. The juice was fermented in small tanks preserving the quality of fruit. Alcoholic fermentation and later maceration lasted about 20 days with half the wine matured eight months in French oak barrels and half left unoaked to preserve the fruit flavours and aromas and maintain silky tannins. The wine was lightly filtered by using cross-flow filtration and cartridges. It’s also a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores.
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Kaiken ‘Selección Especial’ Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina $15.95 (58339) 14.0% alcohol
This fruit-forward malbec boasts ripe cherry, berry and plum aromas entwined with notions of cured meat and herbs. Dry, medium bodied with silky tannins, flavours of juicy red fruit wash over the palate before finishing mid-length with smoke and herbs appearing on the aftertaste. Enjoy this exceptional-value red with pasta in tomato sauce. (Lisa Isabelle)
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Borsao ‘Tres Picos’ Garnacha
DO Campo de Borja, Spain $19.95 (273748) 15.0% alcohol
This gem has developed quite the following. Aromas of black plum, fig and savory herbs set the tone for a rich, hedonistic river of bramble berry and black currant robed in lip-smacking acidity adorned with peppery notes and fennel. There are ripe fine-grained tannin adding structure and interest. It’s nicely balanced with a fruit and tang-filled finish. (Vic Harradine)
• The following 2 red wines receive a discount off the price shown below of $5.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.
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Beringer ‘Knights Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Knights Valley, California $46.95 (352583) 14.8% alcohol
This blend of predominantly cabernet sauvignon with a splash of cabernet franc, merlot and petit verdot, matured 16 months in French oak, 30% new. Dark cherry, plum compote, chipotle, baking spice and violet aromas showcase the complex nose. Silky soft on palate entry with flavours of ripe black cherry, clove and vanilla, it shows a firmer profile mid palate with tight tannin and flavours of cocoa powder, freshly cracked black peppercorn and a wisp of red plum acidity through the finish and aftertaste. This is full-bodied with cellaring potential; enjoy now to 2024 with juicy rare prime rib after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Louise Boutin)
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Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi ‘Castelgiocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino
DOCG Brunello di Montalcino, Italy $53.95 (650432) 14.5% alcohol
This showcases purity of fruit, a deft tang/fruit balance and plenty of years ahead to mature—pop corks now, after a three-hour aeration/decant, or 2023 to 2026. Alluring, sexy aromas of baking spice, smoky notes, berry fruit, floral and cedar abound. A supple flow of full-flavoured ambrosia envelops the palate with crunchy red fruit—pomegranate and cranberry—interlaced with black currant, dark plum, spice and juicy Bing cherry. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouthfeel and a lingering finish underpinned by still-evolving ripe tannin. (Vic Harradine)
Other Wines and Spirits
• The following Jackson-Triggs Icewine receives a discount off the price shown below of $5.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.
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Jackson-Triggs ‘Reserve’ Vidal Icewine
VQA Ontario $39.95 (389411) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
Mango and ripe yellow peach aromas unleash a gusher of sweet, honeyed flavour on the palate with honey-drizzled peach pie and candied apricot coating the palate and persisting through the finish. It’s full bodied and generously textured delivering a sticky, sweet aftertaste. Pour with quality blue cheese or fruit flan. (Vic Harradine)
• Aeroplan bonus = 50 Aeroplan miles for each bottle purchased in-store only and not online of the following wine from March 27 to April 23, 2022.
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Famille Perrin ‘Réserve’ Côtes-du-Rhône
AOC Côtes-du-Rhône, France $16.95 (363457) 13.5%alcohol
A Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre blend offering up a nose of cedar, green herbs and red berry fruit mingling with kitchen spice. It’s medium-bodied with a persistent wash of red currant and cranberry mingling with savoury herbs and spice. The aftertaste is dry with mixed field berry fruit and spiced black plum underpinned by a lick of supple tannin. Pour with grilled gourmet sausage. (Vic Harradine)
Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic