April 17, 2010 Vintages Release
This Vintages Release catalogue begins with a feature on wines from Veneto, Italy followed by a mini-feature on Tasmania and Josef Chromy then the Main Release. The winecurrent-reviewed wines are in the order they appear in the Vintages Release catalogue. Susan handled this Vintages release—Vic is now on his way back from Australia contributing a feature on ‘Rutherglen stickies’; sadly, they’re one of the wine-world’s best kept secrets. Read More…Highlights in this winecurrent newsletter include:
- Eco-friendly/Organic/Biodynamic – a wide range sprinkled throughout the newsletter
- Finding Waldo – I’m 4 stars, I’m sweet (Susan ♥ me), from Greece and only $11.95
- Rutherglen stickies – a ‘must read’ for all those with even a passing interest in wine
- Finding other Waldos – I’m 5 stars, I’m Pinot Noir and well under $30.00, and after you find that; I’m 5 stars, I’m red, and I’m a ‘Consignment wine’
Rutherglen ‘stickies’ (Liqueur Muscat and Liqueur Tokay) – It’s a pity there’s a challenge finding these wines, and it’s not because they’re expensive or sell quickly. They occasionally filter through the LCBO, quietly purchased by canny wine lovers. Wine critics Robert Parker Jr. and Jancis Robinson rave about them. At least one deserves a spot on your wine-tasting bucket list.
According to Parker, “… these fortifieds must be tasted to be believed as they are among the world’s most profound after-dinner fortified wines.” Jancis Robinson wrote, “Australia's greatest gift to the wine world, incredibly sweet yet subtle liquid Christmas cake conjured out of the earth and sunshine of north east Victoria.” If you’re already a fan of that delectable Spanish dessert wine commonly known as PX Sherry, these have better balance, a more involved bouquet and greater flavour complexity. Read More…
Veneto, Italy Feature
Monte del Frá Ca’ del Magro 2008
DOC Custoza Superiore $14.95 (165670) 13.0% alcohol
This attractive white blend has aromas of sweet tree fruit, citrus and floral notes—honeysuckle in particular—which replay on the palate. It’s a medium-bodied, straightforward sipper with clean crisp acidity and a nice refreshing finish. Nicely priced to enjoy with friends and light appetizers. (Susan Desjardins)
Maculan Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
IGT Veneto $14.95 (987701) 13.5% alcohol
Inky purple, this wine exhibits aromas of ripe black fruits, earth, herbal and minty notes. The flavours are red and black cherry and berries with a hint of pepper. It’s dry, but easy drinking with silky tannins and fresh acidity. Ripe dark fruit and pepper notes repeat on the mid-length finish. Try it with pizza or burgers. (Susan Desjardins)
Monte del Frá Tenuta Lena di Mezzo Valpolicella Classico 2008
DOC Valpolicella $13.95 (160226) 12.5% alcohol
A semi-transparent crimson, this offers lovely aromas of red fruit, herbs, spice and a note of caramel toffee. It’s medium bodied with juicy fruit flavours of spicy red berries—cherry, raspberry—complemented by lively acidity and moderate tannins. Fresh fruity flavours carry through on the mid-length finish along with notes of spicy toast. It’s a nicely balanced and well-priced wine. (Susan Desjardins)
Fumanelli Valpolicella 2008
DOC Valpolicella $12.95 (687186) 12.5% alcohol
Fresh red fruit aromas, floral notes and hints of spice and sweet oak grace the nose of this ruby-red wine. It’s straightforward, medium bodied with supple tannins and soft acidity. The fresh fruit flavours and attractive spiciness replay on the palate and carry through on the finish. This is an easy going well-made crowd pleaser. Spaghetti Bolognese anyone? (Susan Desjardins)
Farina ‘Le Pezze - Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore’ 2006
DOC Valpolicella $14.95 (134684) 13.5% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent September 26, 2009 @ $14.95) The expressive nose offers fresh mint and raspberry aromas that segue tang-laden and lip-smacking flavours of racy pie cherry, cranberry and red currant. There’s good weight and it’s nicely textured sporting a lengthy fruit-forward finish that’s enveloped in a firm tannin structure. Aerate/decant 2 hours then pour alongside pasta in tomato-based sauce. (Vic Harradine)
Masi Campolongo di Torbe Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2004
DOC Valpolicella $99.95 (548677) 16.0% alcohol
A classic blend, where the Corvina is affected by botrytis during the ‘appassimiento’—this impressive wine was aged 3 years in barrel, then a minimum of 6 months in bottle. Intensely inky and powerful, it has rich aromas of dried fruits, nuts, mocha and dark berries. It’s full bodied, dry and opulent with an intricate web of flavours—figs, dates, dark chocolate, black plums and field berries—which persist on the lengthy finish. Tannins and acidity are perceptible but seamlessly integrated into a harmonious potent whole. An investment for the cellar to share with special friends. (Susan Desjardins)
Cantina Valpantena Amarone della Valpolicella 2006
DOC Valpolicella $34.95 (981316) 14.5% alcohol
An opaque deep red, this expressive Amarone displays aromas of ripe red and black fruit, dried fruit, cinnamon and toasty oak. It’s dry and full bodied with a rich texture, velvety tannins and food-friendly acidity. It’s mouthwateringly flavourful—loads of rich fruitiness, spice, pepper and a hint of char which carry through on the extended finish. It’s well priced and drinking well now, but can certainly be cellared for a few years. (Susan Desjardins)
Cantina di Negrar Via Rosa 2009
IGT Rosé del Veneto $10.95 (165407) 12.0% alcohol
Rose pink with a hint of peach, this great bistro-style rosé has subtle aromas of strawberry and cranberry. It’s dry, light bodied and fruity with fresh acidity and flavourful notes of strawberry and citrus. The finish is fruity, lively and refreshing. A pretty wine to serve chilled on a warm afternoon or with light appetizers. (Susan Desjardins)
Tasmania and Josef Chromy Feature
Josef Chromy Pinot Gris 2008
Tasmania, Australia $23.00 (162974) 13.6% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent February 6, 2010 @ $23.00) This drink-me-now gem offers up an expressive nose of fragrant white peach and citrus aromas. The estate-grown fruit was coddled—de-stemmed without crushing, the juice then gently pressed off directly into stainless steel preserving the varietal character. Medium bodied and highly textured, the bracing flavours of lemon zest and nectarine coat the palate. The finish lingers, crisp and refreshing. Made for antipasto and deli-food platters, it also pours well alongside pan-seared fish. (Vic Harradine)
Josef Chromy Riesling 2008
Tasmania, Australia $22.95 (162966) 12.7% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent February 6, 2010 @ $23.00) Floral, citrus and hints of slate on the nose, this dishes up a lovely mouthful of flavour—racy lemon-lime, ripe ruby red grapefruit and spiced yellow plum. It’s mid weight with a gorgeous palate-coating texture and a well-balanced lengthy finish that adds on a layer of complexity with ripe juicy tree fruit flavours. Give it a go alongside crab cakes or your favourite blue-veined cheese. (Vic Harradine)
Josef Chromy ‘Pepik’ Pinot Noir 2009
Tasmania, Australia $21.95 (162990) 12.5% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent February 6, 2010 @ $21.50) Bistro styled and value packed, spice box and red berry fruit aromas waft from this light-on-its-feet Pinot. Racy flavours of ripe pomegranate and cranberry stream throughout carried along on a lovely spine of acidity. It’s nicely textured, well balanced and sports a crisp finish of spice and tangy flavour. Pasta in tomato-based sauce matches up well, try spaghetti Bolognese. (Vic Harradine)
Josef Chromy Pinot Noir 2008
Tasmania, Australia $26.95 (160322) 14.0% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent February 6, 2010 @ $26.00) Expressive and expansive aromas lift from the glass of this beautifully sculpted red—herb and spice, dark berry fruit and oaky notes are predominant. Juicy well-balanced flavours coat the palate with succulent Bing cherry and juicy bramble berry to the fore. This is a stunning wine, offering value and complexity with deftly integrated oak—12 months in French barriques—perfect balance and a lingering luscious aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)
The Main Release
Fortified Wine
Quinta do Infantado Tawny Port
DOC Douro $16.95 (168633) 19.5% alcohol
Revel in the attractive aromas of dried fruits, candied rind, dates, figs and nuts of this mahogany-hued Tawny. On the palate, it’s luscious and warm with extended flavours of sweet dried fruits, exotic spice and tangy peppery notes. Long-lasting, sweet spicy dried fruit flavours characterize the finish. Serve it with a cranberry nut tart. (Susan Desjardins)
Dessert Wine
Limnos Wines Muscat de Limnos 2008
AOC Greece $11.95 (61119) 15.0% alcohol
Pale golden, this fabulous Muscat has alluring aromas of apricot, honey and herbal tea. It’s full-bodied with a honeyed texture and enduring flavours of sweet stone fruit which are balanced by a refreshing and tangy acidity. The texture is round and full. The finish is rich and honeyed, but not cloying. It’s just so tasty, it’s a delight. At this price, buy a case and share it with friends, or invite them over for a tasting with an apricot almond tart. (Susan Desjardins)
Konzelmann Vidal Icewine 2007 (200 ml)
VQA Niagara Peninsula $22.95 (167866) 10.5% alcohol
This international award-winner is an attractive orange-gold color. Exhibiting a hedonic nose and palate of honeyed ripe tangerines, candied peel and sweet dried apricot, it has a rich full-bodied texture balanced with tangy zesty acidity. The extended finish features honeyed sweet citrus notes and reflects the harmonious integrated nature of the wine. Squirrel away a bottle or two from Ontario’s best vintage. (Susan Desjardins)
Ontario: Red Wine
Featherstone Cabernet Franc 2008
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $16.95 (64618) 12.0% alcohol
A semi-transparent crimson, this wine has attractive and restrained aromas of raspberry, blueberry, cedar, pepper and tobacco. It’s dry, medium bodied with fresh acidity and subtle tannins. Fresh flavours of ripe berries with nuances of spice and pepper dominate, following through on the mid-length finish. A great match to grilled meats marinated with cracked pepper and herbes de provence. (Susan Desjardins)
California: White Wine
Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay 2008
Napa Valley $18.95 (136382) 13.5% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent November 7, 2009 @ $19.95) Aromas of vanilla and tropical fruit waft from the glass of this plush and textured Chardonnay. Mid weight and well textured it dishes out a boatload of flavour with tree fruit—peach, apple and pear—mingling with hints of lemon pie filling and vanilla. Pour it alongside supermarket take-out rotisserie roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)
California: Red Wine
Bonterra Syrah 2006
Mendocino County $19.95 (573709) 14.4% alcohol
Produced from organic grapes, this inky purple wine is primarily Syrah with a touch of Grenache, Mourvédre and Viognier displaying concentrated aromas of blueberry pie, toast and licorice. It’s dry and full bodied with soft acidity and loads of dark fruit—plums, brambles, blueberries—as well as nuances of dark chocolate and char. The finish is extended and dry, with a tug of tannins underlying dark fruit and toasty notes. (Susan Desjardins)
Clos du Bois Pinot Noir 2007
North Coast $18.95 (161273) 13.5% alcohol
Subtle aromas of sweet spicy red fruit and a woodsy note waft from the glass of this semi-transparent ruby red wine. It’s medium bodied and dry with supple tannins and fresh acidity complemented by flavours of fresh sweet red fruit and spice. The freshness and flavours carry through on the mid-length finish which also displays a hint of toast. Good value for this varietal. (Susan Desjardins)
Ravenswood ‘Vintners Blend’ Merlot 2007
California $17.95 (505065) 13.5% alcohol
Intensely colored, this accessible wine offers fair complexity with layers of clean ripe plum and floral aromas. Dry, round and smooth, the tannins are silky and the acidity is gentle. Vibrant flavours of red cherries and berries abound along with spicy notes. The finish is extended and characterized by notes of char underlying ripe fruit flavours. Nicely priced, it’s a good match to grilled meats. (Susan Desjardins)
Rodney Strong ‘Alexander’s Crown’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Alexander Valley, California $34.95 (329961) 14.1% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent July 4, 2009 @ $39.95) Well structured and filled with fruit flavours, the gorgeous aromas of exotic spice, toasty oak and bramble berry serve notice that this is special. Rich succulent flavours of black currant, black raspberry and espresso roast dazzle the palate as they’re framed by ripe supple tannin and moderating acidity. The oak’s well integrated, overall it’s well balanced, and the finish lingers with a hint of mint. (Vic Harradine)
Argentina: White Wine
Zolo Unoaked Chardonnay 2009
Mendoza $12.95 (144717) 13.8% alcohol
If you’re looking for the pure fruit character of Chardonnay, this pale gold wine does a nice job of delivering clear aromas of ripe fruit—tree, stone and light tropical—followed by bright fresh flavours of green apple and citrus. It’s dry with crisp acidity and a vibrant mid-length finish. A food-friendly wine that’s a good match for grilled pork tenderloin or chicken, or pan-seared cod. (Susan Desjardins)
Argentina: Red Wine
Navarro Correas ‘Coleccion Privada’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Mendoza $14.95 (28910) 13.8% alcohol
A number of wineries, while not converting to organic or biodynamic viticulture, are shifting to more environmentally responsible practices—Navarro Correas is one of them. Many winemakers believe this approach produces a better wine with flavours more true to the terroir. This concentrated wine has expressive aromatics of blackcurrant jam, spice box and cedar. The palate is chock full of rich dark fruit, espresso, vanilla and underlying woodsy notes. It’s medium-full bodied with ripe but perceptible tannins and gentle acidity. Dark fruit flavours and spice linger on the mid-length finish of this well-priced wine. (Susan Desjardins)
Chile: Red Wine
Terra Noble ‘Gran Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Colchagua Valley $16.95 (46268) 14.0% alcohol
This is a very appealing fruit-forward wine that beckons with aromas of intense ripe fruit, spice box, coffee and smoky oak. It’s full bodied and dry, but approachable, with velvety tannins and fine acidity. The core of dark fruit flavour is accented with notes of espresso and mint which linger on the finish. A great match for prime rib or grilled beef now, it’s also candidate for short-term cellaring. (Susan Desjardins)
Australia: Red Wine
Clarence Hill Shiraz 2006
McLaren Vale $21.95 (599811) 14.5% alcohol
This is a big dense Shiraz with concentrated aromas of sweet oak and dark fruit—both dried and jammy! Full bodied, with a rich texture, it has supple tannins and fresh acidity balancing the ripe dark fruit, spice and chocolate notes on the palate. The engaging flavours persist on the finish. A fine wine for meats prepared with a sweet barbeque sauce. (Susan Desjardins)
Organic Vignerons Australia ‘OVA’ Shiraz/Cabernet 2008
Victoria $19.95 (109090) 14.0% alcohol
Produced from organically-grown grapes, this blend is fresh, fruity and enjoyable. Aromas of spice, pepper and dark berries—blueberry in particular—entice. Full bodied and dry with soft tannins and lively acidity, the wine displays fresh red and black fruit flavours with notes of black pepper which carry through on the mid-length finish. A great wine to serve with full-flavoured meat dishes. (Susan Desjardins)
Tyrrell’s ‘Rufus Stone’ Shiraz 2007
Heathcote $19.95 (91488) 14.0% alcohol
An opaque deep red, this wine exhibits notes of cedar, spice, vanilla and eucalyptus layered on aromas of sweet dark fruit. It’s full bodied with a pliable texture and attractive flavours of pepper, sweet spices, and ripe black fruits. The tannins and acidity are just right for the ripe fruit flavours. With all components nicely integrated and well balanced, the wine offers a persistent finish with appealing notes of pepper and cedar. Well crafted and well priced—savour it now or put aside a few bottles for 3-5 years. (Susan Desjardins)
New Zealand: White Wine
Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Marlborough $14.95 (686675) 13.0% alcohol
Pale yellow-green, this wine tantalizes with fine aromas of asparagus, citrus and a hint of sweet fruit. Light-medium bodied, it displays mouthwatering acidity on the palate with a flavour combo of sweet stone fruit and zippy citrus notes. The lingering finish replays the fruit and citrus, underlaid with some subtle earthy vegetal notes. (Susan Desjardins)
South Africa: Red Wine
Anura ‘Reserve’ Merlot 2005
WO Coastal Region $24.95 (157461) 14.5% alcohol
Opaque and deeply colored at the core, this award-winning wine is showing a hint of garnet at the rim. It displays intense concentrated aromas of well-ripened black fruit with an underlying earthy spiciness. The flavours are complex—plums and bramble pie, spices, herbs, char and dark chocolate—on the richly textured palate. Perceptible tannins and moderate acidity make for a very nice balance. Rich dark fruit flavours and notes of char replay on the lengthy finish. A finely wrought wine for rich game or red meat dishes. (Susan Desjardins)
France: White Wine
Martin Steimer Gewürztraminer 2008
AOC Alsace $16.95 (709790) 13.5% alcohol
Expressive classic aromas of lychee, honey and ripe fruit—tropical and stone—drift from the glass. Medium bodied and nicely balanced, the wine is mouth filling and round, with rich fruity flavours, spice and fresh acidity. It displays a persistent rich spicy fruity finish. You just want to take another sip, or two. Always a good match to moderately spicy foods. (Susan Desjardins)
France: Red Wine
Le Gravillas Sablet 2007
AOC Côtes du Rhône-Villages $15.00 (078790) 14.0% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent August 29, 2009 @ $17.95) Opening with a perfumed nose of exotic spice and tar, this delivers lovely strawberry and raspberry flavour wrapped in a firm tannin structure. It’s medium bodied and fairly textured. It’s also austere at the moment with good acidity and a lengthy finish. Drink 2012 to 2016 with a hearty stew—osso bucco or cassoulet. (Vic Harradine)
France: Rosé Wine
Gassier ‘Sables d’Azur’ Rosé 2009
AOC Côtes de Provence $14.95 (33621) 12.5% alcohol
Just the name of this pale salmon wine evokes languid sunny afternoons on the deck or a sandy beach sipping a chilled rosé! A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault, this is a good choice with its subtle aromatics of strawberries and fresh citrus which carry through on the vibrant fruity palate. It’s dry, light-medium bodied, slightly spicy and crisp with a vibrant and refreshing finish. Surely it’s not too soon to pour a glass . . . (Susan Desjardins)
Germany: White Wine
St. Antony ‘483’ Dry Riesling 2008
QbA Rheinhessen $16.95 (160622) 12.5% alcohol
A lovely golden hue, the wine offers a bouquet of floral and fruit aromas, notably golden delicious apples, ripe pears and stone fruits with a hint of spice. It’s dry, medium bodied, slightly spritzy with fresh acidity and vivid flavours of pears, green apple and lemon. Consistent in flavour and texture through the crisp mid-length finish. A nice wine to whet your appetite. (Susan Desjardins)
Italy: Red Wine
Borgo Scopeto Chianti Classico 2007
DOCG Chianti Classico $17.95 (23325) 13.5% alcohol
A semi-transparent ruby red, this classic medium-bodied wine of Tuscany exhibits lovely aromas of strawberry, red cherry, cinnamon and spice. With fresh acidity and somewhat dry tannins, it’s nicely balanced. It has an attractive fresh texture and oodles of red cherry berry fruit. The finish is long lasting and fruity. A great wine for a typical Italian pasta or pizza. (Susan Desjardins)
L’Antico di Burchino ‘Vigna Casanova’ Chianti 2007
DOCG Chianti $14.95 (160457) 12.0% alcohol
This is a relatively low-alcohol gem and made from the fruit of a certified biodynamic producer so that it is a full and true expression of the terroir. It’s fragrant with floral and soft red fruit aromas along with hints of toast and spice. Medium bodied, it displays lively acidity and somewhat drying tannins with the intense taste of fresh berries—raspberries, cranberries and red currants. A treat for those who enjoy a well-priced fresh red with a bright fruity finish. (Susan Desjardins)
Spain: White Wine
Miguel Torres ‘Nerola’ 2008
DO Catalunya $16.95 (680678) 13.0% alcohol
Torres uses a range of environmental initiatives designed to reduce their carbon footprint and environmental impact while ensuring the production of quality wines. Produced from Xarel-lo (one of the grapes used in the production of Cava) and Garnacha Blanca, this wine is crafted from organically-grown grapes. On the nose it displays lovely aromatics of sweet citrus and honeysuckle while the palate is fresh and lively with a replay of the fruity aromatics. It’s light-medium bodied and has a lingering finish that is fresh and fruity. Enjoy it served with a warm salad of grilled vegetables and lightly sautéed prawns. (Susan Desjardins)
Upstream in Winecurrent
Vintages Release: June 12, 2010
Viña Arboleda Syrah 2007
Aconcagua $18.95 14.5% alcohol
Arboleda was the first winery in Chile to produce Syrah, beginning in 1986. This is an expressive inky wine with intense aromas of brambly fruit, toasty oak and notes of leather. Aged 12 months in French oak, it’s full bodied, with dark berry and plum fruit complemented with cracked black pepper. The fruit is balanced with fresh acidity and supple tannins. A fine note of char lingers on the finish. Consider a few bottles for the cellar. (Susan Desjardins)
Vintages Release: September, 2010
Viña Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Aconcagua, Chile $18.95 14.0% alcohol
Aged 50/50 in French and American oak, this barrel sample displayed layers of fine aromas—cassis, cedar, sweet spice, vanilla and tobacco. On the palate, it has a concentrated core of dark fruit flavours, supple tannins and soft acidity. Finely textured and elegant, it’s well balanced and has a persistent finish of ripe dark fruit and notes of dark chocolate. A great wine for grilled-rare barbequed meats. (Susan Desjardins)
LCBO Product Release: May/June 2010
Bodegas Esmeralda ‘Tilia’ Torrontés 2009
Salta, Argentina $12.95 13.5% alcohol
Produced from the fruit of two distinct regions; combined, they deliver concentrated wines with ripe fruit flavours, structured tannins and bright acidity. This Torrontés is a good example where fresh floral and soft citrus aromas are matched with a spicy tang. It smells like flowers on a sea breeze. It’s medium bodied with a combination of ripe stone fruit and slightly tropical notes giving way to the crisp freshness of green apple and pink grapefruit. Sweet fruit notes are framed by fresh acidity, delivering a zippy mouthwatering finish. (Susan Desjardins)
New in the LCBO
Bodegas Esmeralda ‘Tilia’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Mendoza, Argentina $12.95 (163428) 13.5% alcohol
Inky and opaque, this is quite a robust wine with expressive aromas of cassis, dark chocolate and cedar. It’s full bodied with a rich core of berry fruit, fine acidity and perceptible tannins. It’s straightforward and balanced, with great consistency of aromas and flavours. The extended finish replays the ripe fruit and chocolate. A good value and meant for a T-bone steak fresh from the grill, or a hearty lasagna. (Susan Desjardins)
Bodegas Esmeralda ‘Tilia’ Malbec 2008
Mendoza, Argentina $12.95 (160945) 13.5% alcohol
This is a very nice Malbec with a subtle nose displaying floral, earthy, spicy aromas around a core of ripe dark fruit. The deep violet color foreshadows the fruit forward nature of the wine, with it’s flavours of dark berries, plums, spice and dark toast. It’s medium-full bodied with tangy acidity and soft tannins. There’s a nice fresh texture—almost like biting into a ripe black plum—and an attractive fruity finish underlaid with spice and char. Great for the barbeque. (Susan Desjardins)
Viña Cono Sur Riesling 2009
Valle des Bío Bío, Chile $9.95 (156653) 13.5% alcohol
Crafted from hand-picked grapes from vineyards managed within a framework of sustainable agriculture, this wine displays fresh sweet fruity aromatics with notes of stone fruit, citrus and a whiff of spice and minerality. The texture is lush and smooth with a clean seam of acidity underlying the appealing flavours of apricots, nectarines and lime. Medium bodied and nicely balanced, the wine has a crisp finish with a pleasant touch of pithiness. Nicely made and very nicely priced. (Susan Desjardins)
Henry of Pelham ‘Sibling Rivalry’ Pink 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario $13.95 (171033) 11.5% alcohol
Yes, definitely a bright pink, this fun blend of Cabernet, Syrah and Gamay has a ‘trio’ theme: 3 varietals, 3 brothers and 3 symbols—rock-paper-scissors. Makes you wonder who won the game of deciding the blend for the wine! Enjoy intense sweet red fruit aromatics with some spice and herbal notes. Light-medium bodied, it offers juicy cran-raspberry and raspberry jam flavours matched with crisp refreshing acidity. The attractive red fruit and some of those spicy herbal notes characterize the tangy mid-length finish. An enjoyable sipping wine, drink it in the spirit! (Susan Desjardins)
New in Consignment Wine
Viña Arboleda Carmenére 2008
Aconcagua, Chile $18.95 13.5% alcohol
Characterized as ‘the grape of Chile’, Arboleda unveils this gorgeous offering. Aged in French oak with a concentrated ruby red robe, it has great aromas of ripe fruit, spice and roasted red peppers. It’s full bodied and displays spicy succulent dark fruit flavours—plums, cherries and black berries. A very approachable and finely textured wine, it has supple tannins and moderate acidity. There’s a great persistent finish with notes of cocoa. Order by the case for daily office or home delivery from Lifford Wine Agency. (Susan Desjardins)
Viña Arboleda Merlot 2007
Aconcagua $18.95 (45864) 14.5% alcohol
The grapes for this dense opaque Merlot were hand harvested from estate vineyards then aged in new French oak for 8 months. The plush, intense plummy berry nose portends the luscious fruit-forward, spicy character of the palate. It’s medium-bodied with soft tannins, mild but sufficient acidity and a persistent fruity finish. This is a real crowd pleaser. Order by the case for daily office or home delivery from Lifford Wine Agency. (Susan Desjardins)
Viña Seña 2006
Aconcagua, Chile $79.00 (520551) 14.5% alcohol
Following the Bordeaux tradition, owner Eduardo Chadwick has created his own unique blend—55% Cabernet Sauvignon supported by Merlot, Carmenére, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Premium fruit is hand harvested early morning, yields are limited to 3 tons per acre and the wine sees 18 months in new French oak barrels. The vineyards are in process of biodynamic certification. This thoughtful and precise approach leads to a fabulous wine! Subtle and complex aromas of cedar, ripe dark fruit, soft herbs, anise and fine floral notes herald an intense dry wine characterized by concentrated dark berry and plum fruit, spice and earthy tobacco notes that carry through on the lengthy finish. Velvety ripe tannins, fresh acidity and a fine persistent finish create a harmonious and hedonic package. Definitely age-worthy. A few bottles remain in the LCBO or order by the case for daily office or home delivery from Lifford Wine Agency. (Susan Desjardins)
Cheers, Vic and Susan
Rating System
We use the following symbols when rating wines:
| Wines achieving nirvana |
| Wines of excellence |
| Wines well worth trying |
 | Wines below average, but drinkable |
 | Wines better avoided, unless desperate |
 | Represents a half star |
 | We agree —a brilliant wine! |
| Drink now and over the next 2 years |
| Drink now and over the next 5 years |
| Place in cellar |