May 28, 2011 Vintages Release

Highlights in this winecurrent newsletter include: 


• Susan Desjardin’s back from Italy – while there she visited Ruffino Wines; she’s reviewed a 5-star Brunello di Montalcino from this release. Read more...
• 38 Ontario wines – Ontario wineries are now releasing reds rosés and whites from ‘08, ‘09 and 2010 vintages. winecurrent tasted and reviewed 38; they’re found throughout the newsletter—4, 4½ and 5 stars abound!
• California – the Golden State – there are nuggets in the Main Release; the J.Lohr Syrah & Bommarito Cab pan out under $20. Susan staked a claim on the 5-star Duckhorn Merlot.
• Spain rules – Coto de Imaz ‘Reserva’ 2004 is 4½ stars at $19.95; this Rioja red has been carefully cellared and deserves a multiple purchase.
• Vic’s pick – Henry’s Drive ‘Pillar Box Red’ 2008 is a $14.95 Shiraz/Cab/Merlot blend you’ll find under Australia: Red Wine—Vic’s picking up six.

This winecurrent newsletter begins with a feature from the Vintages Release catalogue on wines from the Alsace followed by the Main Release. There’s a feature on California wine, as well, and they’re reviewed in the order of the Main Release.

Alsace Feature

Faller Geisberg ‘Grand Cru’ Riesling 2007
AOC Alsace $20.95 (225169) 13.0% alcohol
Honeyed fruit, slate and spice rip from the nose of this tightly focused Grand Cru Riesling. Crisp and zesty flavours ride a serious spine of bracing acidity throughout—key lime, lemon oil, crisp Granny Smith apple and hints of melon. It’s medium bodied with reasonable texture and a lengthy lip-smacking aftertaste. Riesling lovers will not want to miss this. (Vic Harradine)


Trimbach ‘Réserve’ Riesling 2008
AOC Alsace $25.95 (995316) 13.0% alcohol
The very forward aromas of smoky notes, mineral and lemon zest dominate the nose of this nicely structured beauty from one of Alsace’s most respected producers. It’s full of nerve and verve with oodles of tangy racy flavour—lemon chiffon pie and apple mingling with pink grapefruit. Medium bodied with good mouth feel, it delivers a lemon zest and green apple finish that’s clean, crisp and refreshing. (Vic Harradine)


Hugel & Fils ‘Tradition’ Pinot Gris 2007
AOC Alsace $22.95 (118919) 13.0% alcohol
Smoky, earthy and mineral on the nose, this dishes up a mélange of flavour delivered on a good spine of acidity—white peach, all spice and lemon sherbet. Nicely textured and showing good balance, it finishes crisp and tangy with subtle hints of nutty notes and leafy undertones. Not garden-variety Alsatian Pinot Gris; it’s delightful. (Vic
Harradine)


Joseph Cattin Muscat 2009
AOC Alsace $14.95 (224634) 12.0% alcohol
Alluring and heavily perfumed with enticing aromas of rosewater and exotic spice, this light-on-its-feet Muscat is balanced and delectable. Flavours of red licorice, sweet ripe grapes and lychee abound on the palate and crisp refreshing aftertaste. Lovely sipped on its own, it pairs well with a creamy mushroom and garlic sauce in pasta. (Vic Harradine)


Joseph Cattin Pinot Noir 2009
AOC Alsace $14.95 (224618) 13.0% alcohol
This is an appealing, approachable ruby-hued Pinot Noir—very little of this varietal produced in Alsace and not often seen here. Dry, light-medium bodied and balanced, it has a consistent aroma and flavour profile—fresh red field berries, sweet spice and a hint of earthiness persisting on the mid-length finish. Enjoy it with terrine, fresh greens and a crusty loaf. (Susan Desjardins).

The Main Release

Dessert Wine

Tenuta di Trecciano Vin Santo del Chianti 2004
DOC Vin Santo del Chianti $19.95 (212100) 16.0% alcohol
Hard to resist this succulent wine produced from naturally dried Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes. A warm amber tone, this lovely Vin Santo offers notions of marmalade, candied peel, dried fruits and lightly toasted nuts. Sweet, yes, but balanced with a refined acidity. It’s medium-full bodied with a lasting and consistently flavourful finish. Enjoy on its own or with cantucci or almond tart with orange and date compote. (Susan Desjardins)

Sparkling Wine

Mumm ‘Napa’ Rosé
Napa Valley, California $29.95 (205641) 13.0% alcohol
Yeasty aromas mix with red fruit and spice on the nose of this nicely formed sparkler fashioned by the famed Champagne house, Mumm. The frothy mousse carries a fruit-filled attack on the palate with sweet white peach, red licorice and strawberry to the fore. It has good weight and texture delivering a nice kick of acidity and spice on the finish to keep it crisp and refreshing. (Vic Harradine)


The Black Chook Sparkling Shiraz
South Eastern Australia $17.95 (221986) 13.0% alcohol
Easy drinking and not at all sweet or jammy like some sparkling Shiraz, this is medium weight and nicely supported by balanced flavours of red cherry, raspberry and citrus. There’s an explosion of bubbles on the palate and a nicely balanced clean dry aftertaste of red fruit and tangy citrus. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

Mike Weir Riesling 2008
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $14.95 (229286) 12.0% alcohol
This is an absolutely lovely pale-gold Riesling, aromatic with floral, citrus, orchard fruit and petrol notes. Off-dry with a fine backbone of acidity shining through, it offers perfect balance to the fine fruit flavours. The finish is lengthy and citrus-laden, refreshing on the palate. Well-crafted and great value, buy a half-case. You’ll also be supporting the Mike Weir Charitable Foundation which benefits from the profits on the sale of this wine. (Susan Desjardins)

Ontario: Red Wine

Fielding Estate Winery ‘Red Conception’ 2008

VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (189183) 13.0% alcohol

This Merlot-predominant blend has a lifted nose of toasty oak and dark briary berry fruit mingling with hints of sweet savoury herb. Mid weight and nicely textured, you’ll find a wash of balanced flavour on the palate with fennel-infused pie cherry and ripe black currant along with an underpinning of supple tannin. It finishes lengthy and dry with an affinity for food pairing—try beef and mushroom kebabs or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)


Southbrook ‘Triomphe’ Syrah 2007 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (129809) 12.3% alcohol 

Cracked pepper and toasty notes segue a wash of racy flavour with spice-infused pie cherry, cranberry and red currant to the fore. Medium bodied and nicely textured, it dishes out a lingering lip-smacking finish of pomegranate interspersed with still-perceptible tannin. Pair with smoked duck breasts or ravioli of duck confit. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Rosé Wine

Cattail Creek ‘Serendipity’ Rosé 2010
VQA Four Mile Bench Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (118059) 11.5% alcohol
Niagara offers tasty rosés and this is a good example. A clean, clear, rosy colour, the wine appeals with summertime aromas of watermelon, fresh red berries and just a whiff of spice. Light-medium bodied, sweetly fruity with good moderating acidity, this refreshing rosé makes a great patio sipper or can be enjoyed with lightly grilled white meats or summer salad. (Susan Desjardins)


Featherstone Estate Rosé 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (117861) 13.0% alcohol
Fresh, fruity and lively, this is everything Rosé is meant to be, a mouth-watering shower of fruity, tangy delicious wine with good balance and a zesty finish. Aromas and flavours of strawberry and cherry abound on the palate. It’s mid weight and nicely textured with a balanced lengthy aftertaste that’s crisp and refreshing with oodles of red fruit and a racy dollop of pink grapefruit. (Vic Harradine)


Kacaba ‘Summertime Series Rebecca’ Rosé 2010
VQA Niagara Escarpment $14.95 (227025) 12.2% alcohol
Strawberry, spice and rhubarb pie on the nose, this is well paced with a fine line of tang and zest with pink grapefruit, tangy red currant and hints of savory spice and strawberry on the light-medium-bodied palate. It finishes clean, crisp and refreshing setting it up to be poured alongside pan-seared fish, garlic prawns or steamed mussels Provençal. (Vic Harradine)

California: White Wine

Clos du Bois ‘Sonoma Reserve’ Chardonnay 2008
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, $22.95 (479527) 14.5% alcohol
Fragrant and complex, this dry, medium-full bodied Chardonnay displays lifted aromas of ripe orchard fruit, sweet spice, light toasted nuts and fresh sweet citrus. Smooth in texture and round on the palate, this is a finely balanced wine with flavours of ripe pear, apple and sweet citrus balanced with subtle notes of toasty oak. Enjoy it with roast chicken or creamy seafood pasta. (Susan Desjardins)


Newton ‘Unfiltered’ Chardonnay 2007
Napa County $64.95 (001537) 15.0% alcohol
This delivers a huge, tasty mouthful of well-balanced, nicely structured delectable Chardonnay. An involved nose of smoke, toast tropical fruit and vanilla billows from this full-bodied, generously textured gem. Complex flavours of musk melon, spice-infused tropical fruit, citrus and ripe apple/pear flavours abound on the palate and lingering, lip-smacking finish. Lovely on its own, it has the oomph to pair with a main of roast chicken or roast pork with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)


Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc 2008
Napa Valley $22.95 (221887) 13.5% alcohol
Grassy, gooseberry and citrus aromas provide segue to this perennially acclaimed, almost iconic, offering. It’s medium bodied with a gorgeously round mouth feel and gusher of racy, crisp concentrated flavour—lemon-lime, pineapple and passion fruit. The dry, tangy aftertaste replays the flavours with gusto. Pair with mussels steamed in white wine or pan-seared scallops over green salad with lemon vinaigrette. (Vic Harradine)


Sanford Chardonnay 2008
Santa Barbara County $26.95 (956003) 14.5% alcohol
Rich, buttery and full-bodied, this fruit-filled Chardonnay isn’t shy. It hustles from the glass with lifted aromas of dark toast, oaky tones and toffee before coating the palate with a thick and juicy wave of fruit-forward flavour with toffee apple, poached pear and tropical fruit laced with sweet vanilla predominant. It cleans up nicely with a dollop of racy grapefruit and lemon acidity. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

7 Deadly Zins ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel 2008
Lodi $24.95 (059311) 15.0% alcohol
Opaque and inky, this is a rich, ripe, fruit-forward wine that just breathes sweet spice and raspberry/blueberry pie. Dry, yet richly fruity on the palate, the flavours are faithful to the aromas, the balance and heft impressive. The finish is long, weighty and fruity with the tang of pepper and a notion of smoky toast lingering. A great match for barbequed meats, you might like to savor it after the meal with a range of hard cheese. (Susan Desjardins)


Bommarito Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Napa Valley $19.95 (213918) 14.5% alcohol
This is a charming Cab with balance, warm fruit flavour and a touch of elegance; on a price-quality scale, the pick of the litter—pick up some. Toasty-oaky on the nose, it springs into action with warm fleshy flavours of bramble berry, spiced black plum and notes of cassis. Medium bodied, well structured and delivering a fruit-filled long finish, this is drinking beautifully now, especially alongside grilled steak. (Vic Harradine)


Duckhorn Merlot 2008
Napa Valley $54.95 (992529) 14.5% alcohol
Deep crimson, this is an iconic wine that displays great depth and complexity on the nose and palate—rich black berries, plum, spice box, a whiff of sweet slightly smoky toast. Dry and medium-full bodied, there’s a firm yet subtle underlying texture and acidity in complete harmony and balance with the rich fruit and fine notes of vanilla. Elegant, refined and subtle throughout, pour now with veal chops with truffle sauce or cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)


Gamble Family Vineyards ‘Paramount’ 2005
Napa Valley $59.95 (221143) 14.5% alcohol
No gamble here, it’s a winner with rich and luscious flavours delivered on a bed of good moderating acidity and a fully textured mouth feel. Aromas and flavours of juicy black currant, ripe mulberry and mint-infused cherry abound, coating the palate, persisting through the lengthy balanced aftertaste. It’s full bodied and lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)


J. Lohr ‘South Ridge’ Syrah 2009
Paso Robles $18.95 (948240) 13.5% alcohol
Blue and black fruit coalesce in this dense fruit-laden gem that’s people friendly, well balanced and terrific value. Rich dark berry fruit aromas mingle with dark chocolate and baking spice on the nose. The palate’s bathed with warm luscious flavours of black currant, blueberry and spice while the lengthy, balanced finish adds a final touch of chocolate-covered cherry and peppery spice. It’s mid weight with a silky texture and worth stocking up. (Vic Harradine)


Pahlmeyer Pinot Noir 2008
Sonoma Coast $79.95 (148536) 14.9% alcohol
Semi-transparent ruby, this delivers intense intricate aromas of black cherry, raspberry, sweet spice, vanilla and underlying earthy notes. Rich, ripe and fruity on the palate, there’s some heat as well as intensity of spice and white pepper. Dry and medium weight, the concentrated fruit flavours—light toast and vanilla—linger on warm lasting finish. A candidate for long-term cellaring, enjoy with duck and dried cherry sauce. (Susan Desjardins)


Predator ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel 2008
Lodi $17.95 (219485) 15.0% alcohol
Mocha, baking spice, gamey notes and underbrush on the funky nose morph into a lovely gusher of flavour on the palate with jammy raspberry, dark chocolate-covered black Bing cherry and sweet vanilla galore. It’s medium-full bodied and nicely textured with a long fruity finish of jammy dark fruit and dusty tannin. Decant a couple of hours and pour with spicy grilled back ribs slathered in BBQ sauce. (Vic Harradine)


Ridge ‘Lytton Springs’ 2008
Dry Creek Valley $43.95 (982413) 14.4% alcohol
Fresh and lively with a lifted nose of spice, red cherry and forest floor, this packs a concentrated wallop of dense fruit flavour that’s balanced and delicious. Mid weight with good mouth feel, the palate’s coated with a balanced juicy rush of flavour—racy red currant, sweet cassis and mixed spice. The finish lingers and layers on a firm underpinning of fine-grained tannin. Good to go now after a two-hour decant pairing well with roast lamb and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)


Villa Mt. Eden ‘Grand Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Napa Valley $24.95 (706275) 14.5% alcohol
Smoke, charred toast and berry fruit roll off the glass of this mid-weight, nicely textured Napa Cab. It delivers a persistent stream of fleshy warm flavour with black cherry, mint-infused black currant and hints of espresso roast along with very good value. Medium weight with good mouth feel, the well-balanced fruit-forward aftertaste entices another sip. It’s worth a look and slipping one in your cart. (Vic Harradine)

Oregon: Red Wine

Aubichon ‘Reserve’ Pinot Noir 2007
Willamette Valley $47.95 (220442) 14.1% alcohol
Displaying its cool-climate origins, this semi-transparent ruby gem offers notes of cherry, raspberry, spice, earth and mineral. It’s characterized by fresh red berry fruit—raspberry, pie cherry and cranberry—riding on a fresh seam of acidity and a fine tannic structure. A hint of sweet spiciness lingers on the dry refreshing fruit-filled finish. This is a medium-weight elegant wine to serve with coq au vin now or cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)

Argentina: Red Wine

Layer Cake Malbec 2009
Mendoza $21.95 (219287) 14.9% alcohol
A step up from most Malbec, this is rich and luscious delivering a lip-smacking lengthy finish. Toasty notes, espresso roast and mixed spice aromas presage waves of luscious fruity flavour—cassis, bramble berry and red cherry adorned by herbal notes. It’d mid weight and nicely textured with a dry, juicy mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with things off the Weber—grilled gourmet sausage, strip loin or ribs. (Vic Harradine)


Luigi Bosca ‘Reserva’ Pinot Noir 2008
Mendoza $17.95 (143420) 13.3% alcohol
Deep-ruby hued, this is a value-laden Pinot with focused aromas and flavours of red cherry/berry fruit, sweet spice, vanilla and a certain earthiness. Good weight and texture with perceptible tannin and fine acidity provide balance to the intense fruit. Good value, this tasty wine may be enjoyed now and over the next couple of years. (Susan Desjardins)


Santa Julia ‘Magna’
Mendoza $14.95 (093799)13.5% alcohol
The price-quality ratio skews in your favour—pick up a few for al fresco dining. The toasty cherry/berry nose introduces a juicy, nicely balanced stream of racy red currant, black cherry and tangy cranberry. It’s medium bodied with good texture and a juicy, dry aftertaste laden with cherry and black currant flavour. There’s perceptible tannin that becomes friendly after a two-hour decant or poured alongside a slab of red meat grilled rare to medium rare. (Vic Harradine)

Chile: Red Wine

Aresti ‘Reserva’ Carmenère 2008
Curicó Valley $12.95 (93773) 13.5% alcohol
Aged 12 months in oak, this crimson Carmenère offers excellent value. The nose is attractive, offering minty notes, rich red and black berry aromas and hints of earth and vanilla. Medium-full bodied and dry, the tannins are ripe while the acidity’s nicely matched to the loads of ripe berry fruit and piquant spice. The finish is quite long with a nice peppery bite. With an extra half star for value, consider a few bottles and bring on the grilled red meat! (Susan Desjardins)

Australia: White Wine

Binder Mitchell ‘Unheralded Maiden’ Viognier 2006
South Australia $17.95 (229872) 14.0% alcohol
You won’t miss the label; you shouldn’t miss the wine, either. Golden-yellow hued, it jumps from the glass with honeyed melon, apple and ripe pear aromas. Rich and layered flavours abound with melon, zesty citrus, ripe apple and spiced poached pear underpinned by the generous mouth feel and enhanced by a long, balanced crisp and refreshing finish. Pour with potato rosti and gourmet sausage. (Vic Harradine)


Robert Oatley Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Margaret River, Pemberton, Western Australia $17.95 (186106) 12.2% alcohol
Racy and zesty with aggressive aromas of gooseberry and herbal tones, this is defined by its persistent and focused river of citrus acidity with lemon and white grapefruit predominant. It’s light on its feet with a brief laser-like finish. It shines poured alongside briny, freshly shucked oysters under a shower of freshly squeezed lemon. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

Henry’s Drive ‘Pillar Box Red’ 2008
Padthaway, South Australia $14.95 (685941) 14.5% alcohol
Never missing the 4-star mark, this is vinified from fruit sourced from 3 sites in the cool-ish Padthaway region of South Australia allowing this predominantly Shiraz blend to attain natural balance. Rich and luscious spice-infused flavours of ripe mulberry, juicy Bing cherry and hints of mint and black licorice coat the palate and dominate the lingering aftertaste. If the price works, it’s a candidate to be poured with a wide variety of grilled meats off the Broil King this summer—pick up a half-dozen. (Vic Harradine)


Plunkett Fowles ‘Stone Dwellers’ Merlot 2008
Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria $19.95 (221838) 15.0% alcohol
This juicy red is bursting with balanced red cherry and red berry fruit with undertones of dark chocolate. It’s mid weight and nicely textured and finishes with hints of fennel and a solid tannin underpinning. Decant two hours before serving. Even with exchange, this is less than what you’d pay in Australia—good value here. (Vic Harradine)


Rockbare Shiraz 2008
McLaren Vale, South Australia $24.95 (661991) 14.5% alcohol
Dark, almost opaque, and brooding in the glass, this dishes up forward aromas of toasty oak and boatloads of rich dark fruit. It’s balanced, medium-full bodied and nicely structured with layers of complex flavours bathing the palate—dark juicy cherry, spiced mulberry, dark chocolate and nuances of oak. The lengthy robust finish is fruit-forward and delicious. (Vic Harradine)


Zonte’s Footstep ‘Baron Von Nemesis’ Shiraz 2008
Barossa Valley, South Australia $15.95 (212936) 14.5% alcohol
Not overdone, some from Barossa are, and certainly not over-priced, this earned its final ½ star on value. It delivers ripe sweet fruit—mulberry, bramble berry and tangy red cherry mingling with mocha and black pepper—sourced from old-vine Shiraz. It’s medium bodied with a generous mouth feel and lengthy balanced aftertaste layering on a lick of moderating lip-smacking acidity. Take a punt, pick up a couple. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: White Wine

Lawson’s ‘Dry Hills’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Marlborough $16.95 (214460) 13.5% alcohol
Good value, this dry, light-medium bodied, pale-straw beauty offers fresh aromas of tropical fruit, citrus, gooseberry and nettle. It’s nicely balanced and refreshing, with concentrated flavours and a mineral undertone. There’s a juicy tangy lemon-lime finish. Enjoy it with wine-poached white fish or a fresh salad with nuggets of goat cheese. (Susan Desjardins)


Nobilo ‘Icon’ Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Marlborough, South Island $24.95 (912337) 14.0% alcohol
Grassy and herbal on the nose, this excels on the palate and mouth-watering aftertaste with tingling nerve and verve. Tangy and juicy flavours are delivered throughout with white peach, pink grapefruit and tropical fruit to the fore. It’s medium weight with a very generous mouth feel and a refreshing shower of lemon-lime on the delicious lip-smacking finish. A wonderful sipper and versatile with food—pan-seared fish, steamed mussels or milk-poached scallops on mesclun greens with lemon-butter drizzle. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: Red Wine

Wild Rock ‘Cupids Arrow’ Pinot Noir 2008
Central Otago $21.95 (61242) 13.5% alcohol
Clear, clean and ruby hued, this attractive appealing wine will be a ‘coup de coeur’ with its lovely aromas of ripe berry fruit, spice and sweet herbs. Well crafted, dry, medium bodied and silky in texture, it displays balance and persistence on the finish, where subtle notes of dark chocolate tantalize. (Susan Desjardins)

South Africa: White Wine

The Winery of Good Hope ‘Bush Vine’ Chenin Blanc 2009
WO Stellenbosch $11.95 (158121) 13.5% alcohol
Well balanced with a clean straw colour, this has intriguing aromas of wet wool and mineral, along with citrus and stone fruit. It’s consistent on the palate; the fruit carried through a persistent finish on a broad seem of tangy acidity. It earned its final ½ star on value—enjoy now with grilled halibut. (Susan Desjardins)

France: White Wine

Domaine Saint Roch Viognier 2009
IGP Pays d’Oc $13.95 (219402) 12.5% alcohol
This is easy… on the eyes and your credit card. It’s peach-hued and aromatic—floral notes and tropical fruit predominant. Round and fleshy flavours bathe the palate in this mid-weight nicely textured Viognier—ripe yellow peach and poached pear with hints of baking spice and mango. It cleans up crisp and refreshing with a lip-smacking wash of citrus. (Vic Harradine)


Henri Bourgeois ‘Petit Bourgeois’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Vin de Pays du Loire $14.95 (672345) 12.0% alcohol
Grass, mineral and apple on the nose, it’s racy, crisp and refreshing on the palate with pineapple, white peach and zesty lime flavours. Light on it’s feet and gently textured, the finish is mouth-watering and lengthy. A deck or patio sipper that’ll pair nicely with lighter seafood or chicken appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

Château Tauzinat ‘L’Hermitage’ 2006
AOC St-Émilion Grand Cru $29.95 (674200) 13.0% alcohol
Ripe sweet flavours abound with black currant and bramble berry melding with nuances of smoky tarry notes. It’s light-medium bodied, nicely textured with a juicy and refreshing balanced aftertaste layering on sour cherry and mint. This is poured well with grilled back ribs brushed with spicy BBQ sauce. (Vic Harradine)


Domaine de Saint Ennemond ‘Vielles Vignes Moulin à Vent’ 2009
AOC Moulin-à-Vent $17.95 (207910) 13.0% alcohol
The perfumed nose blossoms with floral notes—lily and rose petals—coupled with mixed spice. Sweet ripe grapey flavours run through this light-bodied delicately textured Cru Beaujolais. It finishes balanced and resplendent with ripe dark berry fruit. Give it a go, slightly chilled, with stuffed roast pork. (Vic Harradine)


Louis Jadot ‘Beaune Clos des Couchereaux’ 1er Cru 2007
AOC Bourgogne $42.95 (077578) 13.0% alcohol
This is well paced and nicely focused with a taut steady stream of racy refreshing flavour—red currant and ripe cranberry gently infused with savory herbs. It’s light bodied with good texture and finishes lip-smacking good with moderate acidity, a bit austere at the moment, and enough red berry fruit to balance it off nicely. Pour with Swiss steak. (Vic Harradine)


Château de Chambert ‘Les Tourelles’ Cahors 2008
AOC Cahors $19.95 (237040) 13.5% alcohol
Tuck this away for three years giving time for the tannins to tame; your patience should be well rewarded. The nose is quite perfumed with charred toast, baskets of herbs and berry fruit. It’s medium bodied with oodles of texture and a juicy fruity finish—black currant and sour cherry—laced with drying tannins. When you finally pull the cork, pair with rare-grilled strip loin. (Vic Harradine)

Germany: White Wine

Gunderloch ‘Fritz’s’ Riesling 2009
QbA Rheinhessen $13.95 (216366) 11.5% alcohol
Golden hued and fruit forward, this wine is all about stone fruit, citrus and melon notes matched with an underlying spine of fresh acidity. It’s very consistent throughout with a zesty dash of lime lingering on the long-lasting finish. It’s good value and a very pleasing wine to sip or enjoy with light appetizers. (Susan Desjardins).

Italy: Red Wine

La Meridiana ‘Le Gagie’ Barbera d’Asti 2008
DOCG Barbera d’Asti $16.95 (212597) 13.5% alcohol
A well balanced and refreshing wine, the nose is redolent with sweet ripe fruit, spice and floral notes. Dry, medium bodied, the palate displays a happy marriage of bright red fruit—raspberry and pie cherry—fine tannins and a fresh seam of acidity. Notes of sweet spice and light toast persist on the finish. Try it with mushroom risotto or a fine Italian cheese. (Susan Desjardins)


Apollonio ‘Terragnolo’ Primitivo 2004
IGT Salento Rosso $17.95 (211813) 14.5% alcohol
Exotic aromas of smoked meat, toasted oak, field berries and mid-eastern spice practically jump from the glass. On the palate, the wine is smooth, medium-full bodied, richly textured and loaded with dark ripe berry fruit, spice, toast and a fine earthy herbal note that garnishes the fresh finish. Good balance, soft tannins and fine acidity complement the full fruit flavours. With the smoky notes, it’s a good match for barbequed meat. (Susan Desjardins)


Barone Ricasoli Casalferro 2006
IGT Toscana $39.95 (92973) 14.5% alcohol
Deep crimson, this elegant Merlot-based wine is dry, medium-full bodied and mouth filling. The aromas and flavours are of cherry, black berries, licorice and sweet herbs. Fine ripe tannins and acidity balance flavourful fruit and underlying minerality. Notes of toast and mint persist on the lengthy aftertaste. Enjoy it now with hand-made picci pasta and a meat sauce or cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)


Viticcio ‘i Greppi Greppicante’ Bolgheri 2007 

DOC Bolgheri $23.95 (170381) 13.0% alcohol 

A blend of the two Cabernets and Merlot, the wine is intensely coloured and intensely aromatic—dark fruit, toast and licorice—this is a full-bodied dry wine with soft tannin and fresh acidity. Red and black berry flavours, spice and a trace of char tease the palate and linger on the finish. Quite elegant. (Susan Desjardins)


Ruffino ‘Greppone Mazzi’ Brunello di Montalcino 2004
DOCG Brunello di Montalcino $49.95 (926402) 13.5% alcohol
Inhale and savor the lifted floral, red fruit, spice and earthy aromas of this magnificent wine. Elegant and complex, dry, medium bodied, the wine displays a superb balance of fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity and lively red cherry and berry fruit. There’s a refined, well-crafted tension between the impact of the fruit and the lasting freshness of the wine on the finish. A wine for contemplation, now or over the next decade. (Susan Desjardins)


Antiche Terre Ripasso della Valpolicella 2008 

DOC Ripasso della Valpolicella $14.95 (178459) 13.5% alcohol 

Tidy and compact, this punches above the price and earned its final ½ star on value. Sprigs of sweet and savoury spice and herb mingle with mocha and red berry fruit on the lifted nose. The palate’s treated to a sweet and tang experience with racy flavours of cranberry and pie cherry giving way to sweet, succulent mulberry. Hidden away in there are hints of chocolate and camphor. It has balance and a mouth-watering aftertaste making it a natural with traditional Italian fare—pasta in tomato sauce or pizza. (Vic Harradine)

Portugal: Red Wine

R de Romaneira 2007
DOC Douro $19.95 (214288) 13.5% alcohol
Espresso roast, spiced dark berry fruit and a dusting of cocoa on the nose, this coats the palate with a fresh and lively river of spicy juicy fruit-forward flavour with black raspberry, black juicy cherry and blood plum. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouth feel, deft balance and a lingering, if a bit rustic, aftertaste. Still has the tannin showing, but good to go after a two-hour decant poured alongside grilled medium-rare rack of lamb. Good value and delicious. (Vic Harradine)

Spain: Red Wine

Ardal Crianza 2005 

DO Ribera del Duero $16.95 (167601) 14.0% alcohol 

Previously an excellent Wine of the Month selection, this red blend opens with a richly perfumed nose of dark berry fruit, vanilla and floral aromas. It’s well balanced, medium-full bodied with a textured mouth feel and flavour galore—racy red berry and sweet ripe red cherry adorned by spice and hints of toasty notes. There’s a lip-smacking lingering finish that sets it up for a delightful pairing with meat and prawn paella. (Vic Harradine)


Coto de Imaz ‘Reserva’ 2004
DOCa Rioja $19.95 (023762) 13.5% alcohol
This is outstanding with every drop equal to the fabulous 2000 and 2001. An opportunity to taste a seven-year-old red that’s still fresh and lively with at least another seven good years remaining; all for under $20. An alluring bouquet of leather, dark berry fruit and toasty notes presage a luscious wave of rich flavour with black Bing cherry, mocha and kirsch liqueur mingling with hints of dried herb and spice. There’s a touch of elegance here with good complexity. Its mid weight and nicely textured sporting a long balanced aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)


Monasterio de Las Viñas ‘Gran Reserva’ 2003
DO Cariñena $14.95 (082024) 13.0% alcohol
Sweet vanilla, cherry/berry and baking spice aromas roll from this mid-weight lightly textured red blend—Garnacha and Tempranillo. Beginning to show its eight years, it delivers a well-paced wash of juicy dark berry fruit and dark chocolate that bathes the palate and infuses the long aftertaste. The tannin’s perceptible adding structure and interest taking nothing away from the enjoyment. (Vic Harradine)


Viña Honda ‘Crianza’ 2006
DO Jumilla $17.95 (208108) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of leather, tobacco, Asian spice and mocha provide segue to a gusher of fruit-laden flavour with black currant and ripe juicy bramble berry to the fore. This is mid weight and well textured sporting a lengthy luxurious finish of dark juicy fruit and chocolate. Straightforward and easy drinking, there’s terrific value to be had. Pour alongside chorizo and spicy tomato sauce in pasta. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: September 3, 2011

Lailey Vineyard Chardonnay 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $20.20 13.0% alcohol
This is a delicious well-made Chardonnay with balance, generous texture and a crisp, refreshing aftertaste. Aromas of orchard fruit mingling with wisps of tropical fruit abound followed by a wave of delectable flavour—crisp apple, ripe pear and racy citrus. It finishes with a lip-smacking refreshing aftertaste. Barrel fermented and barrel aged 10 months in well-seasoned French oak; it punches well above the price. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: September 10, 2011

Lailey Vineyard ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.20 13.5% alcohol
Impressive from the get-go, this is aromatic and laden with richly layered flavours persisting through the mid-length deftly balanced finish. Apple and pear aromas replay on the palate with gusto—waves of Granny Smith apple and ripe Bosc pear mingle with spiced citrus. It’s mid weight with a gorgeous mouth feel cleaning up mouth-watering and refreshing. With each sip better than the previous, it’s difficult to take your hand off the glass. (Vic Harradine)


Lailey Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $25.20 12.5% alcohol 

The price and Niagara Peninsula appellation suggest ‘entry level’, the tasting suggests otherwise—it’s a crowd-pleaser with the price-quality balance tipped wildly in your favour. Lifted aromas jump from the glass with oodles of cinnamon, cloves and mixed dark berry fruit. It’s an amalgam of mouth-watering flavours—ripe cranberry and pomegranate mingling with spice, strawberry and cherry. It’s medium bodied, generously textured with a lengthy aftertaste of sweet, succulent cherry/berry flavour. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: October 15, 2011

Lailey Vineyard Riesling 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.20 11.5% alcohol
This is pure, focused and fruit forward with a creamy silky-smooth texture. Riesling expresses terroir and wine maker Derek Barnett wisely allowed this wine to do all the talking. Focused aromas and flavours persist on the palate and lip-smacking aftertaste—white flowers, lemon-lime sherbet with high notes of honeyed tropical fruit. Perfect to sip, it has the balance and slightly off-dry character to marry well with a variety of dishes, especially spicy Asian. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages

Château des Charmes Viognier 2008
VQA St. David’s Bench $25.95 (432948) 13.5% alcohol
Honeysuckle, peach and fig on the nose, this bustles from the glass with a gorgeous wash of fruit compote and honeydew melon. It’s medium bodied and nicely textured with a dry and lengthy balanced finish that’s quite refreshing. This has structure and charm, sip on its own or pour with pan-seared scallops in light-cream sauce. Order from ‘Vintages Direct’1-800 266-4764—they’ll ship one bottle or more to the LCBO retail store of your choice. (Vic Harradine)


Malivoire Chardonnay 2009
VQA Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (573147) 12.5% alcohol
Balanced and appealing, this first-rate Chardonnay displays appealing aromas of vanilla, toasted nuts, orchard fruit and fresh citrus. Medium bodied, the texture is creamy yet crisp, the oak well integrated, flavours of citrus and apple are vivid. The lengthy finish is fresh with elusive notes of spiced butterscotch lingering. Enjoy it with roasted halibut with tomato purée and saffron rice. A Vintages Essentials product, this wine is always available at select LCBO stores. (Susan Desjardins)

New in the LCBO Portfolio

Cave Spring Cellars ‘Dry’ Riesling 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (233635) 11.5% alcohol
Mineral and citrus on the nose, there’s a persistent stream of lip-smacking flavour on the palate with key lime, white grapefruit zest and a fruit salad of tropical fruit. It’s medium bodied with excellent texture and a riveting lip-smacking aftertaste of lemon-lime, green apple and minerality. What’s not to like? Pour on its own pre-dinner or alongside mussels steamed in this white wine, baked ham or mixed deli platter. (Vic Harradine)


Cave Spring Cellars Rosé 2010
VQA Niagara Escarpment $13.95 (295006) 12.5% alcohol
This mostly Cab Franc blend captures your interest with the orange-bronze hue and fruity aromas of strawberry and rhubarb. It’s medium bodied with a generous mouth feel, oodles of tangy spiced cherry/cranberry flavour and a zippy refreshing mouth-watering finish. Low-yielding older vines and lengthy skin contact coalesce in this well-structured effort. Pour with pan-seared salmon, roast chicken or sip on its own. (Vic Harradine)


Château des Charmes ‘Barrel Fermented’ Chardonnay 2008
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $13.95 (81653) 13.0% alcohol
Vanilla and spiced-apple aromas set up this mid-weight well-integrated Chardonnay. It packs a power punch of flavour with apple pie spice, ripe pear and peach plus tangy lemon riding along a silky smooth texture. It finishes balanced and lip-smacking good with moderating acidity balancing the ripe fruit flavour. Good value here. (Vic Harradine)


Château des Charmes Sauvignon Blanc 2008
VQA St. David’s Bench $14.95 (391300) 12.5% alcohol
Crisp and dry with pizzazz and purpose, this delivers a great mouthful of flavour. Grassy, leafy aromas mingle with a mélange of orchard fruit providing segue to a stream of refreshing flavours—peach, spice-infused yellow plum and tangy lemon-lime. It’s mid weight with good texture and a long mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with green salad in light vinaigrette and crumbled with chèvre. (Vic Harradine)


Konzelmann ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2008
VQA Niagara Peninsula $11.95 (200535) 13.5% alcohol
Pineapple, tropical fruit and apple pie aromas roll off this crisp and refreshing, well-textured Chardonnay. Crisp green apple and white peach flavours are nicely underpinned by a solid spine of mouth-watering citrus acidity. It finishes balanced and refreshing and pours well alongside steamed mussels or pan-seared fish. (Vic Harradine)


Konzelmann ‘Weissburgunder’ Pinot Blanc 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $11.60 (219279) 12.0% alcohol
This is value-packed with a gorgeous mouth feel and loads of off-dry lip-smacking flavour. Honeysuckle and tropical fruit on the nose, it coats the palate with a silky smooth wave of ripe peach, apple and citrus tang. It’s slightly off-dry, mid weight with a long balanced and mouth-watering aftertaste. Lovely on its own, it shines with spicy Asian food. (Vic Harradine)


Konzelmann Riesling 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $11.95 (200501) 11.0% alcohol
There’s a splash of Gewürztraminer in here giving a lift to the aromas—rose petals, lemony citrus and mineral nuances. This is racy and zesty with a focused stream of lemongrass, grapefruit and crisp green apple. Light-medium bodied and mid weight, it sports a crisp and refreshing aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge ‘Inox’ Chardonnay 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 (594200) 13.0% alcohol
Value packed and bursting with crisp refreshing flavour, lifted aromas of green apple, spiced pear and hints of tropical fruit abound. Ripe fruit washes over the palate in waves with green apple and Bosc pear mingling with sweet vanilla and mixed spice. It’s mid weight and generously textured with a lengthy fruit-filled and well-balanced finish. The quality-price balance tips well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge Merlot 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (61101) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas and flavours of red cherry and mixed field berry are underpinned by a persistent stream of acidity and silky-smooth fine-grained tannin. This is medium weight with a round and luscious texture and a well-balanced cherry/berry tangy aftertaste. A terrific food wine, it really shines with meat-laden pizza or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge ‘Top Bench Red’ 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 13.0% alcohol
People and food friendly, you’ll want a bottle of this on your arm—at a party, in a restaurant, at home. This is a seriously yummy red blend that’s easy drinking and chockfull of balanced flavour—strawberry, cherry and dark berry fruit. Stop reading and pick up a bottle; you and those you share it with will be glad you did. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge ‘Top Bench White’ 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 13.0% alcohol
This delicious blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer will stop you in your tracks—it’s drop-dead gorgeous. Filling your mouth with zesty balanced flavour—apple, pear and citrus—it delivers a lengthy refreshing aftertaste. Great on its own, at a party or at home, it dishes up inexpensive glasses of conversation starter and lip-smacking white wine. How good is that? (Vic Harradine)


Pillitteri Estates Winery Cabernet Merlot 2009 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (349191) 12.5% alcohol
Here’s a smooth delicious mouthful of ripe dark fruit that’s nicely balanced with a long crowd-pleasing fruit-filled aftertaste earning its final ½ star on value. Cherry/berry spice-infused aromas on the nose, it coats the palate with sweet ripe cherry and cassis persisting through the long finish. It’s medium-full bodied with a generous mouth feel and a balanced fruity finish. (Vic Harradine)


Pillitteri Estates Winery Pinot Grigio 2010 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (146787) 12.6% alcohol
Floral, tropical and pit fruit aromas provide segue for a lovely wash of racy flavour with ripe pear, white peach and lemony citrus to the fore. Medium bodied with a wonderful fully textured mouth feel, it sports a dry refreshing aftertaste. Perfect sipped as an aperitif, it also pours well with pasta in creamy white sauce or pan-seared prawns. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

Cave Spring Cellars ‘Dolomite’ Riesling 2009
VQA Niagara Escarpment $16.95 11.5% alcohol
Winemaker Angelo Pavan’s an acknowledged virtuoso with Riesling; this is stunning. Vibrantly fresh on the nose and palate, aromas of white peach, mango and citrus with hints of slate/stone abound. It’s mid weight with a full and generous mouth feel delivering a tangy mouth-watering shower of zesty flavour—lime sherbet, more peach and white grapefruit—all replayed on the crisp refreshing aftertaste. In the Ottawa area order by the case from Lauren Hayes This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (613) 240-3617 for home or office delivery; elsewhere via Cave Spring Cellars.


Château des Charmes ‘Paul Bosc Estate’ Chardonnay 2007
VQA St. David’s Bench $21.95 (287268) 13.0% alcohol
Full-bodied, fully flavoured and fleshy, this is one beautiful Chardonnay that’s structured and elegant. The spice-infused nose of ripe orchard fruit and sweet vanilla gives way to a persistent and balanced rush of flavour with green apple, ripe pear and lemony citrus to the fore. It’s fully textured delivering a lengthy balanced refreshing aftertaste. It’s worth more than the asking price. Purchase by the case for daily home or office delivery from Château des Charmes. (Vic Harradine)


Fielding Estate Winery Cabernet–Syrah 2008
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 13.0% alcohol
A blend of the Cabernets and Syrah, each varietal was aged separately for 12 months, then blended and aged a further 6 months in French and American oak. The nose is intriguing—tantalizing notes of smoky toast, licorice, savoury herbs and red fruit. Medium bodied and balanced, flavours of black pepper, ripe red berry fruit, toast and dark chocolate mingle with a fresh backbone of acidity and fine-grained tannin. Dry on the finish, it’s well paired with grilled vegetables and barbequed ribs. Order by the case for home or office delivery from Fielding. (Susan Desjardins)


Fielding Estate Winery ‘Estate Bottled’ Pinot Gris 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 12.0% alcohol
Citrus, spice and savory herbs dominate the aromas while the palate’s treated to a racy rush of white grapefruit, crisp green apple and spiced yellow plum carried on a spine of tangy acidity. It’s mid weight and nicely textured with a crisp refreshing finish replaying hints of spice with undertones of apple and pear. A great patio sipper and even better with food—steamed mussels, grilled garlic prawns or pasta in creamy white sauce with clams. Order by the case for home or office delivery from Fielding. (Vic Harradine)


Fielding Estate Winery Riesling 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 10.5% alcohol
Lusciously sweet stone-fruit aromas, citrus and a whiff of minerality drift from the glass of this finely crafted just off-dry gem. Sweetly fruity on entry—a basket of nectarine, peach and apricot—a backbone of acidity underlines the clean zesty flavour of mandarin and lime. Light-medium bodied, this is a great wine to sip on its own or to savor with warm salmon salad. Order by the case for home or office delivery from Fielding. (Susan Desjardins)


Fielding Estate Winery Rosé 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 12.5% alcohol
A pretty salmon pink, this is a blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Pinot Noir with a dash of Syrah. Light-medium bodied, the aromas of mint and strawberry rhubarb pie resonate delightfully on the palate. Juicy and savoury, it’s nicely balanced, crisp, fresh and bright, finishing with a lively peppery bite. Enjoy it with a summer salad or as an appetizing sipper. Order by the case for home or office delivery from Fielding. (Susan Desjardins)


Konzelmann ‘Reserve’ Pinot Grigio 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.00 13.5% alcohol
A rock-solid 4-star gem, this has a wisp of oak and gusher of flavour all delivered with gorgeous texture, almost oily, and deft balance. Floral and pear on the nose, there’s clean crisp fruit on the palate with spice-infused apple, pear and tropical fruit galore that’s joined by zesty citrus on the balanced crisp finish. This is poured and paired well with baked ham or white-sauce pizza. Purchase by the case for daily home or office delivery from Konzelmann. (Vic Harradine)


Lailey Vineyard Chardonnay 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $20.20 13.0% alcohol
This is a delicious well-made Chardonnay with balance, generous texture and a crisp, refreshing aftertaste. Aromas of orchard fruit mingling with wisps of tropical fruit abound followed by a wave of delectable flavour—crisp apple, ripe pear and racy citrus. It finishes with a lip-smacking refreshing aftertaste. Barrel fermented and barrel aged 10 months in well-seasoned French oak; it punches well above the price. Purchase by the case for daily home or office delivery from Lailey. (Vic Harradine)


Lailey Vineyard ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.20 13.5% alcohol
Impressive from the get-go, this is aromatic and laden with richly layered flavours persisting through the mid-length deftly balanced finish. Apple and pear aromas replay on the palate with gusto—waves of Granny Smith apple and ripe Bosc pear mingle with spiced citrus. It’s mid weight with a gorgeous mouth feel cleaning up mouth-watering and refreshing. With each sip better than the previous, it’s difficult to take your hand off the glass. Purchase by the case for daily home or office delivery from Lailey. (Vic Harradine)


Lailey Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $25.20 12.5% alcohol 

The price and Niagara Peninsula appellation suggest ‘entry level’, the tasting suggests otherwise—it’s a crowd-pleaser with the price-quality balance tipped wildly in your favour. Lifted aromas jump from the glass with oodles of cinnamon, cloves and mixed dark berry fruit. It’s an amalgam of mouth-watering flavours—ripe cranberry and pomegranate mingling with spice, strawberry and cherry. It’s medium bodied, generously textured with a lengthy aftertaste of sweet, succulent cherry/berry flavour. Purchase by the case for daily home or office delivery from Lailey. (Vic Harradine)


Lailey Vineyard Riesling 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.20 11.5% alcohol
This is pure, focused and fruit forward with a creamy silky-smooth texture. Riesling expresses terroir and wine maker Derek Barnett wisely allowed this wine to do all the talking. Focused aromas and ripe flavours persist on the palate and lip-smacking aftertaste—white flowers, lemon-lime sherbet with high notes of honeyed tropical fruit. Perfect to sip, it has the balance and slightly off-dry character to marry well with a variety of dishes, especially spicy Asian. Purchase by the case for daily home or office delivery from Lailey. (Vic Harradine)


Malivoire Pinot Gris 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 13.0% alcohol
Perfumed aromas of honeyed citrus, peach and minerality presage a rich luscious surge of flavour with lime sherbet, pineapple and hints of mint predominant. Medium bodied with a creamy smooth mouth feel, it sports a lengthy, well-balanced aftertaste of lip-smacking tangy grapefruit with a dollop of ripe melon with hints of licorice. This is a fabulous Gris with balance and grace—a treat on its own and paired well with roast pork or roast chicken. Order by the case for daily home or office delivery from Malivoire. (Vic Harradine)


Malivoire ‘Moira’ Chardonnay 2008
VQA Beamsville Bench $39.95 13.0% alcohol
Absolutely stunning, this earned its accolades before bottling— single-vineyard, organically farmed, hand harvested, 12-year-old vines, barrel fermented, 12 months in French oak. Sweet vanilla, minerality and caramel on the beguiling nose, it bathes the palate with an elegant structured wash of balanced tangy flavours—lemon-lime, musk melon and white peach with undertones of baking spice. It’s medium-full bodied with satin smooth texture and a long, luxurious, refreshing aftertaste. Order by the case for daily home or office delivery from Malivoire. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge ‘McNally Vineyards Proprietor’s Reserve’ Pinot Noir 2009 

VQA Beamsville Bench $25.15 13.0% alcohol
Fruit laden and adorned with well integrated oak, tannin and acidity, this delivers a juicy mouthful of seriously good Pinot. Aromas of red cherry and berry fruit with wisps of earthiness set up a wash of flavour bathing the palate with ripe cranberry, strawberry, sweet red cherry and nuances of fennel. It’s light on its feet with a silky-smooth mouth feel and a lingering fruity finish. Order by the case for daily home or office delivery from Peninsula Ridge. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge ‘McNally Vineyards’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009
VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 13.5% alcohol
Clean, crisp and refreshing, this splashes into the glass accompanied by aromas of green apple and citrus with nuances of mineral and leafy tones. Medium bodied with a distinctive soft mouth feel, there’s an abundance of flavour with pit fruit, grapefruit zest and hints of gooseberry dominant. It finishes zesty and looking for a partner—mussels steamed in white wine sauce or pan-seared freshwater fish. Order by the case for daily home or office delivery from Peninsula Ridge. (Vic Harradine)


Peninsula Ridge ‘Vintner’s Private Reserve’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 13.0% alcohol
This is involved and complex with aromas of mineral, grass and apple billowing from the glass. Structured and deftly balanced throughout, mouth-watering flavours of grapefruit rind, pineapple and hints of melon and passion fruit persist on the palate and through the lengthy mouth-watering aftertaste. This was aged 4 months on its lees and stirred often resulting in a silky smooth mouth feel. Winemaker Jamie Evans reaches a new level of excellence here. Order by the case for daily home or office delivery from Peninsula Ridge. (Vic Harradine)


Pillitteri Estates Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2009 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.00 12.0% alcohol
Brimming with racy grassy aromas mingling with citrus and hints of pineapple, this rides on a firm spine of zesty acidity through the dry crisp and mouth-watering finish. It’s light on its feet with a nice texture and oodles of charm and focus. Sip on its own or pair with mesclun greens under grilled crumbled chèvre or pan-seared garlic prawns. Order online for daily home or office delivery from Pillitteri. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, Vic and Susan