August 7, 2010 Vintages Release

This Vintages Release catalogue begins with the Main Release. The winecurrent-reviewed wines are in the order they appear in the Vintages Release catalogue.


Highlights in this winecurrent newsletter include:

• Private Order – a number of fine wines at the end of the newsletter via ‘Private Order’—not found on LCBO shelves, they’re available to you
• Trend setter – ubiquitous Canadian designers, Steve & Chris, patterning golfers and celebrities, cut their own chic label, ‘Trend’. Tailored by Niagara winery, Reif Estate, a red and white sashay down the LCBO runway September, 2010, catch dress rehearsal in ‘New in the LCBO Portfolio’, after the Main Release.
• Best-value wines – six wines rated 4 stars @ $12.95 and less!
• Ontario wines – 18 are rated and reviewed and all worth a look. Check Rosehall Run, Peninsula Ridge, Malivoire, Huff Estates in ‘New in Ontario Wineries’, after the Main Release

The Main Release

Ontario: White Wine

Cave Spring Cellars ‘Estate’ Sauvignon Blanc 2007
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (071662) 12.5% alcohol
From a premium Canadian ‘Bench’ winery, aromas of mineral, floral and camphor blossom from the nose of this crisp, refreshing white. There are flavours galore with crisp green apple and juicy ripe pear throughout along with a solid spine of racy citrus. It’s light-medium bodied with nice texture and a spice-infused zingy, refreshing finish. It pairs perfectly with pan-seared garlic prawns. (Vic Harradine)


Cave Spring Cellars Chardonnay Musqué 2008
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (246579) 13.0% alcohol
There are lifted aromas of exotic spice, lively citrus and sprigs of sweet savoury notes on the nose of this smooth and mellow sipper. The palate’s treated to a cornucopia of refreshing flavours with spiced apple, pear and peel marmalade gliding along on a bed of lemon-lime tang. It’s light-medium bodied with good mouth feel and a refreshing mid-length finish. (Vic Harradine)


Coyote’s Run ‘Red Paw Vineyard’ Pinot Gris 2008 

VQA Four Mile Creek $17.95 (116582) 13% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent June 20, 2009 @ $18.00) There isn’t much of this to go around, arrive early and pick up a few. Spice box, mineral and floral on the nose, this provides a delicious imbibing experience with mouth-filling flavours of succulent peach, pear and honeyed apple. It’s light to medium bodied, nicely textured and delivers a crisp bone-dry finish of ripe citrus tang. (Vic Harradine)


Ontario: Red Wine

Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Red Tail’ Merlot 2008 

VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 (131540) 12.5% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent May 1, 2010 @ $19.95) Lightly coloured, the aromas are a lovely amalgam of spice and earthy tones. The initial attack on the palate is tangy—red currant and cranberry—blossoming on the palate and lengthy finish with ripe red cherry, juicy strawberry and zesty spice. It’s mid weight, lightly textured with supple tannin and a crisp clean finish. This ratchets up a notch or two when sipped with food; spaghetti Bolognese, pizza and Swiss steak all fit the bill. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Rosé Wine

Malivoire ‘Ladybug’ Rosé 2009 

VQA Niagara Escarpment, Ontario $15.95 (559088) 12.0% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent May 15, 2010 @ $15.95) Mixed spice, mineral and red berry fruit on the nose, it serves up a delectable mouthful of tangy flavour—freshly sliced strawberry, ripe cranberry and racy ruby red grapefruit. Light-medium bodied, nicely textured and sporting a dry, crisp refreshing finish, this has the balance and structure to pair with a variety of dishes—a deli-platter, goat cheese salad or grilled salmon. Well paced, well priced and delicious. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery ‘Beal Vineyards’ Cabernet Rosé 2009

VQA Beamsville Bench $11.95 (177840) 12.5% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent June 12, 2010 @ $11.95) Aromas of spice and cherry waft easily from this light-on-its-feet, mid-weight beauty. Crisp, fresh and lively, this delivers a persistent wash of lively red field berry, savoury spice with hints of blood orange. It finishes clean and refreshing, easily pairing with light appetizers like smoked salmon or crab cakes. (Vic Harradine)

California: White Wine

Chappellet Chardonnay 2008
Napa Valley $44.95 (186577) 14.8% alcohol
This has it all – complexity, flavour, balance and structure. Aromas of toast, pit fruit and spice roll from this medium-full bodied generously textured beauty. Tropical fruit, marmalade and spiced Granny Smith apple flavours abound on the palate and the lengthy balanced finish. The oak’s been well integrated and the delectable lip-smacking flavours persist. Pricey, but solid and flirts with elegant. (Vic Harradine)


Chateau St. Jean Chardonnay 2008
Sonoma County $19.95 (421644) 13.4% alcohol
Ripe apple, toasty notes and tropical fruit aromas abound on this flavourful value-packed gem. There’s a lovely stream of flavour—juicy nectarine, apple and racy lemon zest—framed by tangy acidity and carried along by a generously textured mouth feel. The clean, crisp finish lingers endlessly. Great on its own, it has the structure and body to pair well with roast chicken, veal or pork. (Vic Harradine)


Tandem ‘Sangiacomo Vineyards’ Chardonnay 2007
Sonoma Coast $24.95 (173344) 14.1% alcohol
A top notch producer, they’ve three offerings in this release, all worth a punt. Spice-infused and chockfull of fruit-forward flavour, this opens with delightful aromas of fig, raisin, toast and mixed spice. There’s a river of flavour on the palate with cinnamon-dotted apple pie, racy lemon and succulent nectarine to the fore. Medium-full bodied with a lovely mouth feel, the lengthy balanced finish is delectable, offering full value. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

Kenwood ‘Jack London Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Sonoma County $34.95 (944843) 14.5% alcohol
Full disclosure—it’s the first Sonoma winery I visited and loved the 'Jack London' back then. True to form, this delivers a nose of smoke, dark chocolate and dusky spicy, earthy tones before coating the palate with succulent balanced flavours of bramble berry, cassis and spiced black plum. The luscious aftertaste lingers with juicy dark berry and mint-infused black cherry flavour. It’s worth every penny and more. (Vic Harradine)


J. Lohr ‘Hilltop Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 

Paso Robles, California $39.95 (0686584) 14.9% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent January 31, 2009 @ $39.95) According to J. Lohr, their goal is “to produce varietals that can compete with the finest in the world”. To this end, they’ve developed three tiers of wines produced from three vineyards; the J. Lohr Cuvée Series, J. Lohr Vineyard Series and J. Lohr Estates. From the Vineyard Series, the Hilltop Cab is from fruit planted high on the slope in the Paso Robles holdings. Blackberry, mulberry, cassis, spice and vanilla charm the nose of this full-bodied, juicy Cab. With velvety tannins, balanced acidity and 14.9% alcohol, deeper flavours of cocoa, ripe black fruit and liquorice generously fill-out the palate. Give this wine a go with veal tenderloin, medium rare, with rosemary mashed potatoes. (Lindsay Groves)


Ravenswood ‘Teldeschi’ Zinfandel 2007
Dry Creek Valley $44.95 (684589) 14.5% alcohol
Over 125 years of continuous Zinfandel production marks the Dry Creek Valley appellation as special. Nicely structured with good focus, this opens with aromas of field berry fruit and sprigs of savoury herb. Classic Zin on the palate, it’s loaded with black currant jam, bramble berry and spiced succulent black juicy cherry. There’s enough acidity for good balance while the texture’s divine and the delectable aftertaste lingers. (Vic Harradine)


Ravenswood ‘Vintners Blend’ Petite Sirah 2007
California $17.95 (161554) 13.5% alcohol
Light-medium bodied and well priced, this offers a delicate nose of field berry fruit and spiced dark plum. It’s mid weight, well textured and fruity. There’s a nice wave of sweet berry fruit on the palate and mid-length finish. This sips well on its own and pours nicely with lighter-styled appetizers. (Vic Harradine)


Shafer ‘One Point Five’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Stags Leap District, Napa Valley $84.95 (045476) 14.9% alcohol
This is structured, layered, complex and balanced; it’s fine quality wine that’s fairly priced. Toast, mocha and dark berry fruit on the nose, it delivers elegant and focused flavours with cassis, juicy black Bing cherry and minty black plum predominant. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a complex lingering aftertaste framed by good acidity and underpinned with a firm tannin structure—drink now to 2017. It’s upscale for everyday drinking, perfect for special occasions or gifting. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: White Wine

Chakana ‘Yaguareté Collection’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Mendoza $12.95 (178111) 13.5% alcohol
Not your typical—grassy, pungent, herbaceous—Sauvignon Blanc, but it’s delicious and flavour packed. The quality-price balance tips well in your favour. This is clean, crisp and refreshing with citrus, nuances of tropical fruit and honeydew melon. It’s mid weight and nicely textured sporting a mid-length tangy finish. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

DOS 2 ‘Estacas’ Malbec 2008
Mendoza $12.95 (169433) 14.0% alcohol
Bistro-styled, racy, tangy and light on its feet, this punches well above the price, good value wine earning its final half star on value. Mixed red field berry fruit and spice on the nose, the flavours are in the red currant, strawberry, cranberry zones with a good spine of acidity to carry them along. The finish is lively and redolent of spiced red berry fruit. (Vic Harradine)


Concha Y Toro ‘Trio Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz/Cabernet Franc 2008
Maipo Valley $14.95 (433912) 14.0% alcohol
This is a rich and concentrated crowd pleaser at a very attractive price—a multiple purchase warranted. Lifted aromas of dark berry fruit, espresso roast and cedar segue a never-ending wash of flavour—dark luscious Rainier cherry, kirsch liqueur and spice-infused black currant. Its medium-full bodied and well textured with a sweet fruity aftertaste. Pair with rare-grilled T-bone. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: White Wine

Galli Estate ‘Camelback’ Pinot Grigio 2009
Sunbury, Victoria $18.95 (108134) 13.0% alcohol
Balanced lively and refreshing, this showcases an aromatic nose of spiced yellow plum and apple. The flavours are an amalgam of tree and pit fruit with a firm spine of lemon and white grapefruit tang. Flavours of honeyed apple and pear couple with spiced citrus and run throughout. It’s light-medium bodied with good texture and a mid-length lip-smacking finish. It’s perfectly paired with salt and pepper calamari rings. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

Boxhead Shiraz 2008
South Australia $15.95 (166967) 14.0% alcohol
A block-buster party wine, this is rich, concentrated with loads of flavour and deft balance. Aromas and flavours of rich delectable mulberry, juicy cherry/berry and kirsch liqueur abound in this medium-bodied well-textured gem. The finish is fruit-forward, lengthy and, dare I say, yummy. (Vic Harradine)


Hazyblur ‘The Baroota’ Shiraz 2006
South Australia $27.95 (052126) 15.0% alcohol
Big, bold and brawny, lifted aromas jump from the glass with dark berry fruit and spice box galore. Über-ripe berry fruit, kirsch liqueur and black currant jam coat the palate and dominate the sweet juicy finish. This is medium-full bodied with a silky smooth mouth feel, ripe fine-grained tannin, seamlessly integrated oak and a drinking window now to 2015. (Vic Harradine)


Jip Jip Rocks Shiraz 2008
Padthaway, South Australia $14.95 (673897) 14.5% alcohol
The 3rd vintage in a row tasted from this family-owned winery and the best yet. It’s rich, lovely and textured on the palate with overt flavours of succulent mulberry, black currant and sweet spice. It’s medium weight, nicely balanced with a lingering fruit-forward aftertaste. The tannins are ripe and supple and the oak’s been deftly integrated. (Vic Harradine)


Shingleback Shiraz 2007
McLaren Vale, South Australia $23.95 (057844) 14.5% alcohol
Owners, the Davey family, continue putting runs on the board after their spectacular Jimmy Watson Trophy win a few years back—a solid producer to follow. There are persistent aromas and flavours throughout—dark berry fruit, dark chocolate and espresso roast while the luscious, balanced and lengthy finish layers on dollops of black licorice and tarry notes. Medium-full bodied with a gloriously smooth texture, this delivers full value. (Vic Harradine)


Tyrrell’s ‘Rufus Stone’ Shiraz 2007
Heathcote, Victoria $19.95 (091488) 14.0% alcohol
Tyrrell’s are an iconic Hunter Valley, New South Wales winery twigging early on to Heathcote as a promising Victoria wine region. Big, bold, balanced and full of flavour, it expresses rich and involved aromas with black pepper and dark plum to the fore. The round and juicy flavours—ripe mulberry, fennel-infused Bing cherry and sweet vanilla—slide along on a generous mouth feel bolstered by a firm tannin structure. If you’re flush, pick up a few and drink now to 2016. (Vic Harradine)


Water Wheel ‘Memsie’ 2008
Bendigo, Victoria $14.95 (656637) 14.0% alcohol
Savoury herb and spice mingle with red and dark berry aromas on the nose while flavours of red cherry and black currant wash over the palate and brief finish. It’s mid weight and well textured providing good value and a nicely balanced red blend. It ratchets up a notch when poured alongside meat-laden pizza or spaghetti Bolognese. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: White Wine

Steve Bird ‘Old Schoolhouse Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2008 

Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $17.95 (178319) 14.0% alcohol
(Previously reviewed in winecurrent May 15, 2010 @ $16.95) This is very well priced and lip-smacking racy with generous ripe fruit flavour—a winning combination. Delivering the usual suspect aromas with citrus and herbaceous notes, it sets itself apart from usual on the palate delivering a crisp and juicy wash of refreshing lime sherbet and tangy-sweet lemon pie filling along with hints of succulent white peach. It’s balanced and refreshing on the mouth-watering finish—pairing perfectly with fish and seafood. (Vic Harradine)


Villa Maria ‘Private Bin’ Unoaked Chardonnay 2008
Hawkes Bay, North Island $16.95 (163956) 13.5% alcohol
Highly perfumed aromas of spice, fresh tree fruit and floral notes billow from this light-bodied refreshing sipper. There’s a focused and persistent stream of crisp, tangy flavour—racy lemon, white grapefruit, and ripe pineapple. Good poured on its own and better with grilled freshwater fish under a squirt of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

Domaine de la Madone ‘Le Perréon’ Beaujolais-Villages 2009
AOC Beaujolais-Villages $13.95 (981175) 13.0% alcohol
This is fruity, delectable and mouth-watering delivering a boatload of value. Aromas of fresh grapes, spice and field berry fruit billow in waves from this mid-weight nicely textured gem. Conitinuing the nautical theme, it washes over the palate in waves with tangy berry fruit and sprigs of spice. Pours well on its own, pairs well with roast chicken and turkey. (Vic Harradine)


Clos de l’Oratoire des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2007
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $39.95 (993279) 14.5% alcohol
Balanced, focused and brimming with succulent fruit, this is complex, structured and full value. Aromas of garrigue, dark berry fruit and espresso roast abound. There’s a gusher of focused fruit flavour with black currant, cassis and spice-infused juicy black Bing cherry galore. It’s medium-full bodied with a generous texture and lingering balanced aftertaste layering on supple tannin adorned with exotic spice and black licorice. Best served after a three-hour decant. (Vic Harradine).


Les Vignerons du Castelas Côtes du Rhône 2008 

AOC Côtes du Rhône $13.95 (142125) 13.5% alcohol 

(Previously reviewed in winecurrent June12, 2010 @ $13.95) The deep purple robe of this Syrah-Grenache blend portends the rich aromas of dark berry fruit, toasty oak and sweet spice. Ripe fruit flavours wash across the palate complemented with fine-grained tannins and soft acidity. This is well structured and medium-full bodied, displaying very interesting notes of dark chocolate on the lingering finish. It’s excellent value and a great match for grilled meats or vegetables. Or, as they do in the Rhône, after dinner with hard French cheese. (Susan Desjardins)

Italy: White Wine

Marchetti Verdicchio Dei Castelli Di Jesi Classico 2008
DOC Verdicchio Dei Castelli Di Jesi Classico $12.95 (104869) 12.5% alcohol
Interesting and complex aromas of fennel, floral and earthy notes segue a value-packed flavourful white from the most revered DOC in the Marches region. Sweet succulent pear, apple and nectarine flavours flow endlessly on a balanced, mouth-watering stream. The finish is refreshing, lengthy and delectable. Sip on its own or pour with light seafood appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: Red Wine

Apollonio Copertino Rosso 2004
DOC Copertino Rosso $16.95 (023226) 14.0% alcohol
There’s a lovely bouquet on this aged Negroamaro and still the mere hint of tannin—it’s rich, racy and lip-smacking good. The evolved and lifted nose includes spice-infused dark berry fruit and cedar while the flavours wash over the palate in waves with racy pie cherry and tangy cranberry to the fore. It has an interesting rustic component on the mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour after a two-hour decant alongside pasta in mildly spicy tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)


Francesco Minini ‘Terre Avare’ Primitivo di Manduria 2008
DOC Primitivo di Manduria $12.95 (180307) 14.0% alcohol
Flavourful and full of value, this crowd-pleaser earned its final ½ star because of it. Spice box, floral and field berry compote on the nose, there a steady stream of rich succulent flavour with sweet mulberry, black cherry and raspberry jam predominant. It’s mid weight, nicely textured and full of ripe dark juicy fruit on the lengthy finish. (Vic Harradine)


Francesco Minini ‘Corte Dei Mori Nero d’Avola’ 2008
IGT Sicilia $13.95 (180281) 13.5% alcohol
This southern Italy gem is delicious, balanced and great value. The nose is spice-infused cherry and mocha while the palate’s washed with dark cherry and dark chocolate flavours adorned with sweet and savoury herbs. It’s mid weight and generously textured sporting a finish that replays the flavours and layers on vanilla and cassis. (Vic Harradine)


Rocca Delle Macie ‘Rubizzo’ Sangiovese Di Toscana 2008
IGT Toscana $14.95 (913780) 13.0% alcohol
This is racy, spicy and zesty, pairing perfectly with grilled back ribs smothered in BBQ sauce or meat-laden pizza. It begins with a subtle nose of floral and sweet dark fruit before delivering a light to medium-bodied wash of racy pie cherry moderated by sweet succulent dark berry fruit. It finishes dry, refreshing and balanced. Good value. (Vic Harradine)


Farina ‘La Pezze’ Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006
DOC Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico $31.95 (171587) 15.0% alcohol
This is knock-your-socks-off value punching well above the price for this classy Amarone. Raisin, fig and jammy notes on the nose, it delivers a rich, complex and tangy endless river of flavour with black currant, ripe fig and juicy dark cherry mingling with, and balanced by, succulent ripe red berry fruit. It finishes dry with the quintessential Amarone bittersweet aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Spain: Red Wine

Torres ‘San Valentín’ Garnacha 2008
DO Viñedos de España $13.95 (673541) 14.0% alcohol
This newly-minted non-geographical DO is in response to EU regulations prohibiting non-DO wines from labelling varietals and vintages. Aromas of floral, red licorice and sweet vanilla dominate the nose, while flavours of spiced sweet ripe fruit—cherry and mulberry—coat the palate. It’s light-medium bodied with a dry balanced finish. Good sipping on its own, it also pours well with burgers or beef and veggie kebabs. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurent

Vintages Release: September 18, 2010

Jackson-Triggs ‘Proprietors’ Grand Reserve Méthode Classique’ 2005
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (587691) 12.5% alcohol
Hand crafted in the image of vintage Champagne, this limited-release, bronze-hued beauty is crisp and refreshing throughout with an endless profusion of fine-bead bubbles. The honeyed pear, biscuit and apricot bouquet segues well-balanced apple, citrus and melon flavours gently mingling with delicious moderating tang. It’s silky smooth with a long mouth-watering aftertaste and offers a world of value. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: October 16, 2010

Rosehall Run Riesling 2008
VQA Ontario $17.95 (019353) 10.5% alcohol
This is a dazzling expression of off-dry expressive, balanced Riesling. It has good structure and strong sense of purpose. Green apple and spicy lime cordial aromas on the nose segue mouth-watering flavours on the palate—tangy white grapefruit, crisp pear and succulent white peach balanced with a riveting spine of moderating acidity. It’s generously textured sporting a lovely lip-smacking finish. Pair with spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages

Antinori ‘Pèppoli’ Chianti Classico 2007
DOCG Chianti Classico, Italy $19.95 (606541)
This is a Vintages Essentials product always available in select stores. It opens with a lifted nose of floral, spice and red berry fruit before bursting on the palate with rich luscious shower of sweet cassis, rich ripe black currant and nuances of spice and savoury herb. Mid weight and nicely textured, the finish is balanced and fruity. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

Fuzion ‘Alta’ Torrentes-Pinot Grigio 2009
Mendoza, Argentina $8.95 (168419) 13.5% alcohol
Honeydew melon and grapey aromas segue a wash of sweet tropical fruit flavour. This light-on-its-feet aperitif-styled blend is smooth and mellow with a fruity finish. A great patio quaffer, it also pairs well with lighter appetizers or lightly dressed, preferably with oil and verjus, green salads. (Vic Harradine)


Malivoire ‘The Guilty Men’ Red 2008
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (192674) 12.5% alcohol
Here’s a well-crafted blend of Merlot, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon that Vic and I are both confident you’ll enjoy! Aged in oak for 9 months, it displays a range of aromas—savoury herbs, black plum, red cherry, toast, and a hint of cedar. It’s nicely balanced with a fresh texture, fruity acidity and supple tannins. Fresh berry and kitchen herb flavours wash across the palate, complemented with notes of toast and dark chocolate that linger on the extended finish. Guilty on all counts . . . great value, great flavour, great wine. (Susan Desjardins)


Malivoire ‘The Guilty Men’ White 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (192666) 12.5% alcohol
A fusion of Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, it delivers a lovely mouthful of crisp, refreshing, well-balanced flavour, punching far above the price. Perfumed, alluring aromas replay on the palate in an endless stream of flavour with sweet juicy peach, exotic-spiced apple and mouth-watering citrus tang predominant. It’s silky smooth with a lengthy finish. Versatile with food, try roast chicken, grilled fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)


Masi ‘Modello delle Venezie’ Bianco 2009
IGT Veneto, Italy $11.95 (533026) 12.0% alcohol
A well-priced summer sipper, this wine is primarily Pinot Grigio with a dash of mysterious local varietals! It displays appealing aromas of tree fruit and citrus with some floral notes. It’s bright and fresh, with racy acidity and flavours of crisp apple, grapefruit and lemon zest. It would be a great appetizer wine, or could be enjoyed with pasta combined with spinach, ricotta and lemon. (Susan Desjardins)


Mateus ‘Signature’ 2007
DOC Douro, Portugal $9.00 (308643) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of berry fruit mingle with mineral and earthy notes in this satin-smooth, well-balanced red. Fresh and lively on the palate, there’s a delightful wash of red cherry and cranberry flavour extending through the tangy mouth-watering aftertaste. Ratchets up a notch or two with food, especially spaghetti Bolognese. (Vic Harradine)


Château Pey La Tour Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
AOC Bordeaux, France $13.95 (264986) 13.0% alcohol
Smoke, oak and coffee on the nose, this delivers a nicely balanced wash of dark berry fruit, red cherry an spice-infused black plum. It’s medium bodied with a nice mouth feel and a long savoury finish underpinned by perceptible tannin. Decant a couple of hours and pour alongside grilled rack of lamb and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)


Marqués de Riscal ‘Reserva’ 2005
DOCa Rioja, Spain $20.70 (32656) 13.5% alcohol
Rich and perfumed on the nose, this bursts on the palate with juicy flavours of boysenberry, sweet vanilla and spice-infused black cherry. It’s mid weight with a generous texture and a lengthy balanced and fruity finish. This is an outstanding example of well-made Tempranillo and deserves to be poured alone or with a generous helping of prime roast beef. (Vic Harradine)


Serego Alighieri ‘Poderi del Bello Ovile’
IGT Toscana, Italy $16.45 (73106) 13.0% alcohol
From the descendents of Dante, a wine that’s poetry on the palate! Intensely fragrant, the wine offers aromas of warm summer fruits—plums, raspberry pie, black currant—as well as sweet herbs, spice and a note of leather. Medium-full bodied, the palate is rich and softly textured, with intense red fruit flavours underlaid with a hint of toasty oak. It’s well balanced, with supple tannins and apt levels of acidity. Spice, toast and fresh fruit replay on the lingering finish. It was a great complement to Tuscan-style steak. (Susan Desjardins)


Tini Sangiovese di Romagna
DOC Emilia-Romagna, Italy $9.00 (179432) 12.0% alcohol
From the Caviro Coop, which represents 41 member wineries, this is a wine whose value skews in your favour. Cherry berry aromas and hints of roasted spice are a fine introduction to this well-balanced, medium-bodied, freshly textured wine. Juicy red fruits are complemented by fresh acidity and soft tannins that linger on the finish. Well-priced and easy-going, serve with pizza or barbequed sausages. (Susan Desjardins)


Tini Trebbiano-Chardonnay 2009
IGT Rubicone, Italy $9.00 (179440) 12.0% alcohol
From the perfumed nose of honeydew melon and floral notes to the clean, crisp citrussy finish, this value-packed blend earned its final ½ star on value dishing out a bottleful of flavour. There’s a tangy delightful wash of lemon-lime and white peach on the palate carried along on a smooth and generous mouth feel. It’s balanced, great for patio sipping and perfectly paired with all manner of appetizers, especially white meat, fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)


Trend Wines Chardonnay-Pinot Gris 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 (197193) 13.0% alcohol
Perfumed floral and honeyed tropical fruit aromas abound in this beautifully textured full-flavoured blend. Fashionable and following the pattern of the excellent Niagara 2009 white wine harvest, there’s a delightful seam of über-ripe fruit flavour on the palate with pear, peach, pineapple and moderating citrus to the fore. The finish is balanced, refreshing and adorned with lime sherbet. (Vic Harradine)


Trend Wines Merlot-Cabernet 2008
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (197921) 13.0% alcohol
Savoury herb and spice with hints of cherry cordial aromas open this mid-weight racy red blend. Flavours of tangy pie cherry, cranberry and spice-infused cranberry mingle with savoury herb and leafy notes. Finishing dry and racy, it’s a natural served with pasta in tomato-based sauce or spicy meat-laden pizza. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

Huff Estates ‘South Bay Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2008
VQA Prince Edward County $29.95 12.5% alcohol
Sweet vanilla, caramel and toast on the nose, it’s beautifully structured, perfectly balanced approaching elegance surpassing many of its peers. Green apple, ripe Bosc pear and racy lemon caress the palate in waves. It’s medium-full bodied with seamlessly integrated oak, a glorious mouthfeel and a lip-smackingly crisp finish. Versatile with food—fowl, lobster or pasta in white sauce—divine sipped alone. Purchase for daily office or home delivery, no minimum, free delivery for case of 12 or more (single wine or mixed), from Huff Estates. (Vic Harradine)


Huff Estate ‘South Bay Vineyards’ Rosé 2009
VQA Prince Edward County $17.95 12.5% alcohol
A blend of the Cabs and Merlot, this is a zippy salmon pink Rosé with aromas of rhubarb and field strawberry. It’s dry with a racy acidity underlying flavours of rhubarb compote, pithy lemon zest and red fruits—cranberry and strawberry. Zesty and refreshing, it’s a great food wine and would pair well with smoked salmon appetizers or lightly grilled fresh salmon. Purchase the wine for daily office or home delivery, no minimum, free delivery for case of 12 or more (single wine or mixed), from Huff Estates. (Susan Desjardins)


Huff Estates Riesling ‘Reserve’ 2008
VQA Ontario $19.95 12.5% alcohol
This is bold and beautiful with vibrant aromas and racy flavour; it’s a gorgeous river of sweet and tang delight—in a word... yummy. There are aromas of diesel, this is a good thing, that don’t make their way to the flavour, this is also a good thing, and minerality on the nose. An explosion of flavour washes over the palate with honeyed apple, racy citrus and mineral tones to the fore. It’s balanced with a satin-smooth, lively, lingering finish. Purchase for daily office or home delivery, no minimum, free delivery for case of 12 or more (single wine or mixed), from Huff Estates. (Vic Harradine)


Malivoire ‘The Guilty Men’ Red 2008 
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (192674) 12.5% alcohol
Here’s a well-crafted blend of Merlot, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon that Vic and I are both confident you’ll enjoy! Aged in oak for 9 months, it displays a range of aromas—savoury herbs, black plum, red cherry, toast, and a hint of cedar. It’s nicely balanced with a fresh texture, fruity acidity and supple tannins. Fresh berry and kitchen herb flavours wash across the palate, complemented with notes of toast and dark chocolate that linger on the extended finish. Guilty on all counts . . . great value, great flavour, great wine. Coming to the LCBO soon but, for now, order by the case for daily home or office delivery from Malivoire. (Susan Desjardins)


Malivoire ‘The Guilty Men’ White 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (192666) 12.5% alcohol
A fusion of Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, it delivers a lovely mouthful of crisp, refreshing, well-balanced flavour, punching far above the price. Perfumed, alluring aromas replay on the palate in an endless stream of flavour with sweet juicy peach, exotic-spiced apple and mouth-watering citrus tang predominant. It’s silky smooth with a lengthy finish. Versatile with food, try roast chicken, grilled fish or seafood. Coming to the LCBO soon but, for now, order by the case for daily home or office delivery from Malivoire. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge Estate Winery ‘Vintner’s Private Reserve’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 13.0% alcohol
This is full of flavour, nicely balanced and indescribably delicious as each sip betters the last. Delightful ripe tropical fruit and floral aromas segue a profusion of flavour—tangy blood orange, lemon chiffon pie and crisp pineapple. It’s mid weight with a generous mouth feel and a refreshing aftertaste that lingers longer than in-laws. Young respected wine maker, Jamie Evans, fashions yet another winner. Order by the case for daily home or office delivery from Peninsula Ridge. (Vic Harradine)


Rosehall Run Chardonnay Musqué 2009
VQA Prince Edward County $17.95 (019353) 12.0% alcohol
This is the first release of this varietal from estate grown fruit and it’s wrapped in their classy new label. Aromas of exotic alluring spice and tropical fruit usher in this light-on-its-feet refreshing aperitif-styled quaffer. White peach, limeade and lemon zest abound on the palate while the crisp finish adds mouth-watering citrussy tang. A great welcoming wine, it sips particularly well al fresco. Order mixed wines in 3, 6, 9 or 12 bottle cases direct from Rosehall Run. (Vic Harradine)


Rosehall Run Pinot Noir ‘Cuvée County’ 2008
VQA Prince Edward County $21.95 12.2% alcohol
Vic and I were thrilled to taste this elegant single-vineyard Pinot. Perfumed aromas of red fruit are underlaid with earthy, toasty notes and hints of minerality. Aged 11 months in French oak this mid-weight wine is silky and supple with fine acidity and well-integrated soft tannins. Fresh red fruit flavours mingle with warm sweet spice and a dash of white pepper. The finish is long lasting, characterized by ripe fruit and toasty notes. Consider a case, and cellar a few bottles for 3-5 years. Produced in limited quantities, the wine is available directly from Rosehall Run. (Susan Desjardins)

Private Order

This is a seldom-used channel for sourcing fabulous wine not available except by traveling the world to various wineries. The agent sources these wines via the LCBO, but you won’t find them on store shelves. It’s like having access to wine that your friends only read about. You wait a few weeks, but these wines are special. Contact the agent listed at the end of the tasting review.


Domaine de la Poulette ‘Côte de Nuits-Villages’ Blanc 2007
AOC Côte de Nuits-Villages $31.00 13.0% alcohol
Pale gold and brilliant, this fine Chardonnay displays a subtle nose of ripe tree fruits, with hints of citrus, minerality and toasted nuts. It has a lush, silky texture with refreshing acidity underlying flavours of ripe apple and citrus. It’s light-medium bodied and beautifully balanced with a bright extended finish. Enjoy with a salade niçoise or grilled chicken breast. Order by the case of 6 or 12 for daily home or office delivery from Nokhrin Wines or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; if in the GTA phone (416) 704-8617. (Susan Desjardins)


Domaine Machard de Gramont Nuits-St-Georges ‘Les Creux Fraîche-Eau’ 2007
AOC Nuits-St-Georges $43.50 13.5% alcohol
Pale gold, this is an outstanding wine from this family-owned estate. Beguiling aromas of light toast and tropical fruits—honey dew and pineapple—waft from the glass. It’s round and well integrated, with a spine of fresh acidity that carries complex and luscious fruit flavours through the mid palate. The freshness is evident on the lengthy finish, which also exhibits lingering notes of light toast and warm spice. Invite your best friends to share this wine and a platter of artisanal cheeses. Order by the case of 6 or 12 for daily home or office delivery from Nokhrin Wines or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; if in the GTA phone (416) 704-8617. (Susan Desjardins)

Cheers, Vic and Susan