May 7, 2014 Newsletter
On June 12, 2014, in Toronto, Ontario, Tuscan winery, Ornellaia, one of the world’s most prestigious wine producers, will release its new vintage and flagship wine of the estate, Ornellaia 2011, at an annual gala dinner and charity auction. Read more here…
Highlights include:
- Exceptional value wines – 7 of 63 wines reviewed meet the strict, quality-price guidelines – all under $20. ; two in the Main Release with five following, all identified by the icon. What are the strict, quality-price guidelines? Click here.
- 5-star wines – 5 wines rang the 5-star bell and 2 of them earned the exceptional value icon . They’re throughout the newsletter with the final one found in Private Order.
- Ontario dazzles – 8 Ontario wineries are represented in the newsletter with more than their fair share of 5-star and exceptional value
wines and not many readers will have tasted wine from all of them: Château des Charmes, Featherstone, Fielding, Kacaba, Konzelmann, 2027 Cellars, Redstone, Thirty Bench.
Access the LCBO store nearest you with stock of any wine with an LCBO product number by clicking on the number shown in brackets in wine reviews. You can tighten your search criteria by using the drop-down box. You can also see the number of bottles available in each store. For Vintages Release wines, the stock should be showing on the site by the Friday before a Saturday release with some stores posting earlier. For LCBO Portfolio wines, it should closely reflect stock in stores, updated every 24 hours, best to phone first.
Vintages Release; May 10, 2014
Feature: Argentina and Chile
Trapiche ‘Broquel’ Bonarda 2011
Mendoza, Argentina $14.95 (55558) 14.0% alcohol
Plum jam, currants and gamy notes on the nose precede a fruity wash of sweet berry fruit and baking spice on the palate, replaying on the brief finish and aftertaste. This is mid-weight, straightforward and uncomplicated, great for large gatherings and the bar b cue. Pour with burgers or gourmet sausage. (Vic Harradine) 
Maipe ‘Chakana Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Mendoza, Argentina $18.95 (246116) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of wood smoke, tobacco and juicy black cherry provide segue to rich, luscious waves of black briary berry, black cherry and spice-dipped black currant garnished with sweet vanilla and espresso roast. It’s medium-full bodied with substantial texture and excellent balance throughout. The finish is lengthy and laced with dark berry fruit underpinned by fine-grained tannin. Great value, pick up a few. (Vic Harradine) 
Tabalí ‘Reserva Especial’ 2009
Limari Valley, Chile $22.95 (107540) 14.0% alcohol
Gorgeous aromas of red cherry and red licorice mingle with wisps of exotic spice and rose petals before coating the palate with concentrated, mouth-watering flavours of crème de cassis and tangy red currant garnished with baking spice and truffles. It’s mid-full weight with good mouth feel and a balanced, extended finish of dark, juicy fruit and excellent tang underpinned by ripe, fine-grained tannin. Good to go now with rare-grilled hangar steak. (Vic Harradine)
Montes ‘Purple Angel’ 2011
Colchagua Valley, Chile $59.95 (62364) 14.5% alcohol
One of Chile’s top drops, it offers tantalizing aromas of savory herbs, floral notes and dark berry fruit. It spills over the palate with good, tangy acidity, cassis and dark cherry adorned with savory herbs and espresso roast. This is full bodied and fully flavoured, well balanced, showcasing purity of fruit and complexity with a memorable dry, lip-smacking aftertaste. What’s not to like? (Vic Harradine)
The Main Release
Sparkling Wine
Château des Charmes ‘Méthode Traditionelle’ Rosé 2011
VQA Niagara Peninsula $28.95 (78055) 12.0% alcohol
A perennial favourite, this delectable Chardonnay/Pinot Noir blend offers a profusion of fine-bead bubbles, ripe, sweet red fruit flavour and oodles of charm. Aromas of rose petals, red berry fruit and baking bread fill the air. The palate’s treated to a mid-weight river of red currant jelly and sliced strawberry balanced beautifully with red cherry tang. The finish lingers. Pour on its own or alongside lighter-styled appetizers or roast chicken. Pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)
Chandon ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine
California $27.95 (100693) 13.0% alcohol
This classy party starter—it’s made in the same manner as Champagne—delivers enough oomph to pair with hors d’oeuvres and has ample charm to be sipped on its own. Leesy, earthy aromas introduce a profusion of fine-streamed bubbles laced with freshly picked strawberry and spice-infused tangy red grapefruit flavour. The lengthy mouth-watering aftertaste is crisp and refreshing. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: White Wine
Featherstone ‘Black Sheep’ Riesling 2012
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $16.95 (80234) 10.0% alcohol
Mid weight with an incredibly long aftertaste, this is charming, complex and made for Riesling aficionados and ordinary wine lovers like you and me. Aromas of floral notes, citrus, notions of minerality and hints of honey are precursor to a dazzling river of pungent, juicy lemon curd, blood orange and key lime pie streaking over the palate. It’s dripping with riveting tang and lip-smacking acidity that’s balanced beautifully with ripe pear, green apple and yellow plum. (Vic Harradine)
Fielding Gewürztraminer 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.75 (146753) 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of orange blossom, citrus and melon abound, presaging a glorious palate-bathing wash of spice-infused mango yoghurt and tropical fruit salad moderated by a lovely hit of tangy lemon curd. It’s medium-full bodied with satiny smooth mouth feel, balanced and beautiful. It finishes lengthy and looking for dance partners—pour with lightly spiced Asian dishes, a deli platter or puff-pastry onion tart. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: Red Wine
Jackson-Triggs ‘Proprietors’ Grand Reserve’ Meritage 2011
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (594002) 13.5% alcohol
Savory herbs and toasty/oaky notes dominate the aromas in this mouth-watering Meritage—35% Cab Franc, 35% Merlot, 30% Cab Sauv. Red cherry and red currant flavours slice across the palate, tangy, full of nerve and verve. It’s medium weight with a mid-length aftertaste. Pair with pasta in tomato sauce or Swiss steak. (Vic Harradine)
California: Red Wine
Cade Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Napa Valley $79.95 (296509) 15.0% alcohol
This opens with powerful aromas of cassis, pipe tobacco and floral notes before coating the palate with rich, dense flavours—briary berry, juicy black cherry, crème de cassis and black licorice. It’s balanced with good structure and wonderful purity of fruit throughout. The finish is long and luxurious. Good to go now and on to 2020 poured with grilled strip loin. (Vic Harradine)
Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Sonoma County $31.95 (186171) 13.5% alcohol
A lifted nose of dark berry fruit, black plum compote and mixed spice presage a balanced and stylish surge of black currant, black berry jam and black Bing cherry robed in roasted herbs and toasty, smoky oak. It’s mid-full bodied with good mouth feel and lengthy finish, replaying palate flavours with a supple tannin underpinning. A lovely California Cab with structure and complexity. (Vic Harradine)
Ironstone ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel 2012
Lodi $17.95 (951889) 14.5% alcohol
An involved nose of dark coffee, savoury herbs, black licorice and distinctive clove aromas herald a Zinfandel with California typicity—black, bramble-berry jam, savoury herbs, spice and ripe red raspberry coat the palate, infusing the lengthy flavour-filled finish. It’s medium-full bodied with dense, concentrated flavour and notions of dark chocolate on the aftertaste. Pour with grilled back ribs mopped with spicy bar b cue sauce. (Vic Harradine) 
Opus One 2010
Napa Valley $417.95 (26310) 14.5% alcohol
Opaque and brooding in the glass, this dazzling red blend gives off aromas of toast, dark berry fruit and spiced black cherry. Balanced on a pin, beautifully structured with great purity of fruit, the creamy-smooth, palate-bathing flavours include dark cherry, crème de cassis and chocolate notes. It’s full bodied and fully flavoured on the lingering rich and luscious finish and aftertaste showcasing spiced black currant and notions of sweet vanilla. Drink now, if you must, after a three-hour aeration/decant, better 2020 to 2026. (Vic Harradine)
Australia: Red Wine
Fowles Wine ‘The Exception’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria $24.95 (362137) 14.5% alcohol
Mocha and floral notes meld with ripe, dark, berry fruit and dark coffee aromas on the nose of this medium-full bodied, nicely textured red. There’s complexity and structure throughout. It coats the palate with grainy waves of black currant, mulberry and savory herbs. There’s substantial grip on the palate and aftertaste—aerate/decant for three-hours before pouring or pop corks 2015-2018. (Vic Harradine)
New Zealand: White Wine
Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2012
Marlborough, South Island $23.95 (677450) 13.5% alcohol
This blasts from the glass with piquant, arresting aromas of canned peas, gunflint, gooseberry, minerality and lemon peel – wow. It’s herbaceous and tangy on the palate—passion fruit, lemon pie filling and asparagus tips mingling with gooseberry and piquant spice. It’s quintessential Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc… on steroids. Not for the faint of heart, full of nerve and verve; it’s poured perfectly with verjus-dressed arugula salad with crumbled chèvre. (Vic Harradine)
South Africa: White Wine
Cathedral Cellar Chardonnay 2012
WO Western Cape $15.95 (328559) 14.7% alcohol
Aromas of crisp green apple, citrus, pineapple and pit fruit abound in this mid-full bodied, racy Chardonnay. There’s a focused spine of nerve and verve on the palate with racy white grapefruit and tangy lemon curd interweaving with Granny Smith apple and wisps of orange zest. It streaks over the finish with replays, finishing crisp, fresh and mouth watering. Pour alongside prawn ceviche or grilled calamari rings. (Vic Harradine)
South Africa: Red Wine
Fairview Petite Sirah 2011
WO Paarl $23.95 (366252) 14.5% alcohol
From one of South Africa’s most trusted producers, this delivers concentrated, balanced flavour, structure and great purity of fruit. Black currant and dark cherry aromas presage a well-knit river of cassis and kirsch liqueur joined by Christmas cake spice and wood smoke. It’s medium-full weight with good mouth feel and a lengthy finish and aftertaste that’s lip-smacking good. Pour with grilled red meat. (Vic Harradine)
France: White Wine
Jean-Max Roger ‘Cuvée G.C.’ Sancerre 2012
AOC Sancerre $28.95 (189126) 12.5% alcohol
Tracing the footsteps of the dazzling 2011, this delivers more of the same. Savory herbs and citrus aromas mingle with soft orchard fruit on the nose while a spirited and lively stream of gooseberry, Meyer lemon and crisp pear bathes the palate. It’s mid weight with a dazzling finish that’s crisp and lip-smacking good—a benchmark Sancerre to be paired with grilled or pan-seared sea food. (Vic Harradine)
France: Red Wine
Famille Perrin ‘Les Sinards’ Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2011
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $19.95 (05975) 375 mL 14.5% alcohol
Big things come in small packages. A quiet nose of delicate floral notes and espresso roast intro a lovely wash of rich, luscious flavour, balanced and beautiful—ripe, sweet mulberry and tangy red and black currant converging with roasted herbs and mixed spice on the palate and through the long finish. It’s nicely balanced with complexity and loads of charm. (Vic Harradine)
France: Rosé Wine
Gérard Bertrand ‘Côte des Roses’ Rosé 2013
AOP Languedoc $19.95 (373985) 13.0% alcohol
Aside from the unique, collectible glass stopper, this has a substantial nose and mouthful of aromas and flavours. Aromas of red berry fruit, wild herbs and mixed spice intro a medium-bodied, nicely textured splash of ripe strawberry, tangy cranberry and red cherry mingling with cherry cordial and red licorice. It finishes dry and refreshing looking for a deli board or crumbled chèvre over mesclun mix. (Vic Harradine)
Château La Tour de l’Évêque Rosé 2013
AOP Côtes de Provence $18.95 (319392) 13.5% alcohol
A perennial favourite, value-packed and organic to boot, this will fool you with its light-pink hue, but there’s a whack of flavour and good mouth feel here. This involved blend—64% Grenache, 29% Cinsault, 4% Syrah and 1% Semillon—rises to the occasion on the palate with a fresh and lively display of flavours. Fresh sliced strawberry and red raspberry team up with spice and wisps of cranberry on the palate and drive through the fresh, mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with roast chicken or white pizza. (Vic Harradine)
Château Val Joanis ‘Tradition’ Syrah Rosé 2013
AOP Luberon $15.95 (707281) 13.0% alcohol
There’s loads of spice and berry fruit aromas flecked with ripe red watermelon on the nose of this nicely balanced Rosé. It bathes the palate with tart and tangy red currant and sour cherry garnished with mixed spice and riper, sweeter kirsch liqueur. It’s good weight with enough texture to handle roast chicken or pork. The finish is tangy, juicy and refreshing. Good value here. (Vic Harradine)
Famille Perrin Tavel Rosé 2013
AOP Tavel $19.95 (680801) 13.5% alcohol
These are the folks, the Perrin family, that make the iconic Château de Beaucastel and are one of the most respected wine producers in the world. The Tavel appellation makes only Rosé wine. This is value-laden and deeply hued with good weight and flavour—it’s almost meaty. Berry fruit and spice on the nose, tangy strawberry/rhubarb pie and red currant mingle with cherry cordial, bathing the palate. It’s balanced, complex and dishes up a dry, lip-smacking aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)
Germany: White Wine
Königschaffhausen Vulkanfelsen Trocken Pinot Gris 2012
Qualitätswein Baden $14.95 (597500) 13.0% alcohol
Spice, honeydew melon and orchard fruit aromas precede a stylish splash of palate-bathing flavours with nectarine and green apple melding with tangy lemon citrus and wisps of yellow plum. It’s light on its feet with satiny-smooth mouth feel and a balanced finish and aftertaste. Good value here and versatile—sip on its own or pour with lighter-styled appetizers, white pizza or pasta in white sauce. (Vic Harradine)
C.H. Berres ‘Ürziger Würzgarten’ Riesling Spätleses 2011
Prädikatswein Mosel $24.95 (301952) 9.5% alcohol
This is an off-dry gem with style and substance; it opens with a nose of exotic spice, pit fruit and a salad bowl of tropical fruit. Crisp apple and pear meld with balancing lemon-lime on the medium-bodied, nicely textured palate. It finishes balanced and refreshing, replaying palate flavours on the lingering aftertaste. Pair with tikka masala or tandoori chicken. (Vic Harradine)
Max Ferd. Richter Riesling ‘Kabinett’ 2007
Präditkatswein Wehlener Sonnenuhr $19.95 (998120) 8% alcohol
The lifted aromas include brioche, mixed spice and lemon-lime chiffon pie filling. Persistent flavours of ripe pineapple and honeyed tree fruit—golden delicious apple and ripe Bosc pear—mingle with lemongrass and hints of spice. This is nicely structured, well balanced and delivers a lingering finish of mango and apricot flavour with subtle hints of ripe yellow plum. Enjoy on its own or paired with a spicy Asian dish like green curry chicken. (Vic Harradine)
Italy: Red Wine
La Valentina Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2011
DOC Montepulciano d’Abruzzo $15.95 (26179) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of ripe red cherry, pipe tobacco and cassis herald a river of smoky, spice-laden, red and black currant bathing the palate garnished with mouth-watering tang. It’s mid weight with a solid tannin underpinning and oodles of sour cherry on the refreshing finish. Pour after a two-hour aeration/decant with pasta puttanesca—well paced and well priced. (Vic Harradine)
Lirica Primitivo di Manduria 2007
DOP Primitivo di Manduria $17.95 (326710) 14.0% alcohol
A cedar, black berry and roasted herbs bouquet provide segue for ripe, sweet, palate-bathing flavours of bramble berry and spice garnished with notions of tobacco and espresso roast. Good weight and mouth feel throughout, it’s bolstered by a supple tannin underpinning and moderating acidity on the long aftertaste. Good value and good to go now with grilled steak or burgers. (Vic Harradine)
Masi ‘Serego Alighieri Vaio Armaron’ Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006
DOC Valpolicella Classico $69.95 (462812) 15.5% alcohol
The expressive nose dishes up an array of alluring aromas—cinnamon, roasted herbs, cherry and currant. There’s good grip and lip-smacking tang throughout with red currant, and sour cherry giving way to riper mulberry on the back palate and finish. It’s full-bodied with generous mouth feel and underpinned by a perceptible tannin structure. Decant/aerate for three-hours before pouring or squirrel away until 2016-2022. (Vic Harradine)
Speri ‘La Roverina’ Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2011
DOC Valpolicella Classico Superiore $16.95 (204008) 12.5% alcohol
This is clean and focused, dry, lively and fresh. There’s loads of red fruit and spice on the nose and palate—red currant and sour cherry are joined by mixed spice box and wisps of herbs. It’s mid weight with good purity of fruit and lip-smacking tang. Pour with meat-laden pizza or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)
Spain: Red Wine
Rioja Bordón ‘Reserva’ 2008
DOCa Rioja $18.95 (194753) 13.5% alcohol
Black licorice, savory herbs, leather and dark berry fruit aromas dominate on the nose. It’s medium weight with a river of tang-laden flavour streaking across the palate—sour cherry and cranberry—mingling with gamy notes and herbs. There’s good weight and a mid-length aftertaste that’s dry, tangy and refreshing. Pour with prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)
Valdemar ‘Inspiración Selección’ 2010
DOCa Rioja $17.00 (166512) 14.0% alcohol
Dark coffee and black cherry aromas provide segue for a linear streak of tang-laden flavour—red cherry, red currant and cranberry—that stream over the palate, infusing the warm, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. It’s medium bodied and full of nerve and verve. Pour alongside spaghetti Bolognese or meat lasagne. (Vic Harradine)
New in Vintages
Fielding Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2013
VQA Beamsville Bench $25.95 (131235) 12.5% alcohol
Piquant spice and nettles mingle with lime cordial aromas on the nose. It delivers a glorious mouthful of Bartlett pear, a salad bowl of tropical fruit, and lemon pie filling. Mid weight with creamy texture and deft balance, it finishes in a blaze of mouth-watering tang. There are wisps of white grapefruit, flinty minerality and pineapple on the aftertaste. It’s the perfect dance partner for chèvre, Greek salad or white pizza. (Vic Harradine)
Fielding Estate Viognier 2012
VQA $25.95 Niagara Peninsula (142323) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of spice, hints of honeysuckle and ripe melon presage a dazzling array of palate flavours—honeyed musk melon, lemon tang and ripe, white nectarine garnished with blood orange. This is medium-full bodied, full flavoured and fully textured, balanced and beautiful. There’s structure, finesse and purity of fruit throughout. The lingering finish replays flavours layering on hints of lime yoghurt—simply delicious. (Vic Harradine)
The following three wines are Vintages Essentials’ wines always available in select stores.
Anselmi ‘San Vincenzo’ 2013
IGT Veneto, Italy $16.95 (948158) 12.5% alcohol
Floral notes, honeyed apple and pear introduce a creamy smooth wash of sweet, ripe fruit—apple, peach and honeydew melon—interlaced with lemon citrus and grilled pineapple. It’s mid weight with generous mouth feel and a long, delicious finish and aftertaste. Perfect sipped on its own, it’s versatile at the table, pairing with sea food, roast chicken or pork. Good value here. (Vic Harradine)
Francis Coppola ‘Diamond Collection Ivory Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
California $24.95 (521021) 13.5% alcohol
Wood smoke and toasty oak mingle with ripe dark fruit—mulberry, bramble berry and juicy cherry on the nose of this meaty, delectable California Cab. It’s full bodied and fully flavoured flaunting rich, concentrated and luscious flavours of spice-laden black Bing cherry and briary berry garnished with dark chocolate and cassis. The finish lingers with gorgeous replays, lip-smacking tang and a supple tannin base. (Vic Harradine)
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio 2013
DOC Valdadige, Italy $17.95 (106450) 12.5% alcohol
This offers delicate aromas of lemon blossom and pit fruit. It bathes the palate with a lighter-styled wash of lemony tang and white grapefruit with flecks of pineapple and white peach, finishing clean, crisp and refreshing. Pour on its own or with seafood or lighter-styled appetizers. (Vic Harradine)
New in the LCBO Portfolio
14 Hands ‘Hot to Trot’ White Blend 2011
Washington State $15.45 (280859) 13.0% alcohol
Honeysuckle, musk melon and buttery notes on the nose, it bursts on the palate with lemony tang, Granny Smith apple and notions of ripe melon and mango. Medium bodied, nicely textured and well balanced, it finishes wrapped in mouth-watering, lemony tang and hints of pear. Pour on its own or pair with chicken, veal or sea food—good value. (Vic Harradine)
J. Bouchon Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Maule Valley, Chile $10.40 (531749) 13.0% alcohol
Ripe kiwi fruit, pineapple and spice aromas herald a light-medium weight, nicely textured river of passion fruit, gooseberry and honeydew melon decorated with lemon citrus and wisps of lime. It’s crisp and refreshing with mouth-watering citrus tang on the medium-length finish. This is a value-packed wine to sip or pour with lighter-styled appetizers or sea food. (Vic Harradine)
Fielding Estate ‘Red Conception 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (189183) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of dark briary berry, pipe tobacco and graphite open a gorgeous, concentrated river of lively red and black berry fruit, tangy red cherry and rich, black plum compote, coating the palate in grainy-textured waves. It’s medium bodied with a solid tannin underpinning, good balance and structure. This vintage’s blend is 68% Cab Franc, 18% Cab Sauv, 8% Syrah and 6% Petit Verdot. Aerate for two-hours before pouring. It provides excellent value. (Vic Harradine)
Fielding Estate ‘White Conception 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (203737) 13.0% alcohol
There’s terrific value here from the get go with alluring aromas of honeysuckle, fragrant herbs and tropical fruit aromas. It’s medium bodied with silky smooth mouth feel and a balanced and beautiful river of apple, pear and nectarine interweaving with zingy orange zest. The lengthy, mouth-watering finish invites sipping on its own or pairing with roast chicken, pork or seafood. Earn 6 AIR MILES® reward miles until May 24, 2014. (Vic Harradine)
Fresobaldi Rèmole 2012
IGT Toscana, Italy $12.95 (105429) 12.5% alcohol
Piquant spice, red berry fruit and mocha aromas provide a greeting for a river of flavour bathing the palate—spiced red cherry and sweet ripe mulberry interweave with black ripe cherry and notions of charred toast on the fruit-filled, nicely balanced, almost sweet, finish. This is a wonderful wine for grilled red meat, beef fajitas, meat-laden pizza, meat-sauce pasta at a perfect price for large gatherings, especially when you’re footing the bill. (Vic Harradine)
Kacaba ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 12.1% alcohol
Ripe, apple and pear meld with wisps of floral notes on the nose presaging a creamy-textured wave of lip-smacking citrus, white peach and grilled pineapple. It’s well paced and focused with loads of charm and ripe, sweet fruit. Mid weight, good value and very well balanced, the mid-length finish puts ribbon and bow on a delightful package. Pour with pan-seared fish, grilled prawns or calamari rings. (Vic Harradine)
Konzelmann Gewürztraminer 2011
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (392357) 14.0% alcohol
It’s perfumed and complex with aromas of cinnamon, rosewater, quince and jasmine rushing from the glass. Off dry, lusciously spicy, it blossoms on the palate, fruity and creamy with a lovely replay of quince jelly. Intensely flavourful with a long finish that offers a hint of pith, it’s impressive. Sip for pleasure or pair with slightly spicy foods. (Susan Desjardins)
Konzelmann ‘Canada White’ Riesling 2011
VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (125278) 11.5% alcohol
Honeyed pit fruit and floral notes on the nose, it sports a slightly off-dry wash of lime zest, ripe pineapple and lemon rind flowing over the palate echoing on the lingering racy finish. It’s mid weight with generous mouth feel and hints of spiced yellow plum on the aftertaste. Pours well on its own or alongside spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)
Konzelmann Shiraz 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.80 (144857) 13.5% alcohol
Lively, fresh aromas of black plum, spice and dark field berry fruit abound. Ripe, luscious flavours of cassis, dark briary berry and red cherry wash over the palate, infusing the balanced and beautiful finish and aftertaste. It’s medium bodied with creamy smooth mouth feel and oodles of charm—don’t linger too long, pick up a couple. (Vic Harradine)
Montes ‘Limited Selection’ Cabernet Sauvignon-Carmenère 2011
DO Colchagua Valley, Chile $14.90 (292169) 14.5% alcohol
Exotic spice, herbs and floral notes presage a succulent, savory mouthful of red and dark berry fruit, tang-infused red cherry and wisps of fine-grained tannin. It’s medium bodied with good structure, nice texture and a smoky lip-smacking aftertaste. Pour with burgers, pizza or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)
Montes ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
DO Colchagua Valley, Chile $13.50 (157883) 14.0% alcohol
Charred toast, aromatic bitters and dark berry fruit on the nose, this bursts on the palate with full-bore, magical flavours of bramble berry, black, juicy Bing cherry wreathed in dark chocolate. It’s medium bodied, well balanced, creamy smooth and absolutely delicious. The finish replays those wonderful palate flavours on the long, dry aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)
Shingleback ‘Red Knot’ Shiraz 2012
McLaren Vale, Australia $17.95 (619395) 14.0% alcohol
Here’s a classy red from a top-notch producer that’s loaded with flavour and just plain delicious. Rich, ripe mulberry and dark, juicy cherry coat the palate decorated with baking spice and dark chocolate flavour. There’s medium-full weight and silky smooth mouth feel augmented by pin-point balance and a lengthy lip-smacking finish. Gorgeous on its own, it pours well with grilled lamb or beef. (Vic Harradine)
Château de Vaugelas 2011
AOC Corbières-Le Prieurè, France $13.70 (361691) 13.5% alcohol
Earthy tones, dark briary berry and mocha on the nose, this dishes up a medium-weight, tangy wash of red currant and sour cherry robed in mixed spice and sprigs of herbs. It finishes dry and crisp with a lively finish of red berry fruit and black plum compote. Pour alongside spaghetti Bolognese or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)
New in Ontario Wineries
Order the following two wines, as well as those in the previous newsletter, by the case for daily home or office delivery directly from 2027 Cellars.
2027 Cellars ‘Cherry Avenue Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2012
VQA ‘Twenty Mile Bench’ $30.00 12.5% alcohol
Spice, forest floor, red cherry and wisps of oak and toast appear on the fairly quiet nose. This bathes the palate with a structured, stylish array of flavour—beetroot, dried currant and bramble berry interlaced with fennel, and tobacco. It’s all framed with tangy Montmorency cherry and underpinned with still-resolving, fine-grained tannin. The finish lingers with deft balance, full of nerve and verve and the promise of even greater things to come—pop corks 2017-2022. An absolutely splendid Pinot and worth every penny. (Vic Harradine)
2027 Cellars ‘Queenston Road’ Pinot Noir 2012
VQA St. David’s Bench $35.00 13.0% alcohol
Here’s a fabulous Pinot with great purity of fruit, complexity, balance and delectable flavour. Funky aromas of earthiness, savory bits, spice and dark toast are pried from the subdued nose. Palate-coating flavours of juicy, tangy sour cherry and spice-infused black berry interweave with notions of anise and cocoa. It finishes with a balanced, complex replay of palate flavours garnished with ripe, supple tannin and charm—it was tough to spit. Good to go now and on to the early 2020s. (Vic Harradine)
Order the following wine, as well as those in the previous newsletter, by the case for daily home or office delivery from Kacaba.
Kacaba ‘Reserve’ Riesling 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 11.2% alcohol
Delicate aromas of white flowers, peach and gooseberry introduce a tang-laden, slightly off-dry rush of flavour coating the palate with lemon-lime and white grapefruit to the fore. It’s nicely balanced with medium weight and a lengthy, dry, mouth-watering aftertaste of minerality and grapefruit pith. This has the oomph and charm to pair well with grilled garlic prawns or mussels Provençal steamed in white wine. (Vic Harradine)
Order the following three wines by the case for daily home or office delivery via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Owned and advised by Tawse Winery, they’ve arrived on the scene with quite a splash - pun intended.
Redstone Winery ‘Limestone Vineyard’ Riesling 2012
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $18.95 9.5% alcohol
Aromas of honeyed pit fruit, Key lime and herbs abound in this fully flavoured gem. It coats the palate with an outstanding, off-dry gusher of creamy-smooth, tang-infused, grilled pineapple, ripe mango and lemon chiffon pie. It’s mid-full weight, balanced on a pin and beautifully structured with depth and a monumental, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste garnished by wisps of mineral and lime cordial. Try spicy Asian cuisine. Kudos to newly minted Redstone winemaker, Rene Van Ede. (Vic Harradine)
Redstone Winery ‘Limestone Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2013
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $22.95 12.5% alcohol
The 15-year old, single-vineyard fruit in this was sustainably farmed. Intense aromas of gooseberry, piquant herbs and notions of nettles herald a light-on-its-feet wash of lemon citrus tang and key lime mingling with wisps of green apple and guava. It dishes up a crisp, mouth-watering, refreshing finish and aftertaste. Pour with Greek salad, mussels steamed in white wine or smelly cheese like Crottin de Chavignol. (Vic Harradine)
Redstone Winery ‘Redstone Vineyard’ Syrah 2010
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $39.95 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of rich, dark berry fruit aromas mingle with spice, espresso roast and earthy tones before bathing the palate with ripe, black bramble berry and sweet ripe mulberry. It’s structured, balanced and absolutely delectable. Mid-full bodied with good mouth feel and great purity of fruit, the long finish replays palate flavours and is lip-smacking delicious. (Vic Harradine)
Order the following three wines, as well as those in the previous newsletter, by the case for daily home or office delivery from Thirty Bench.
Thirty Bench ‘Small Lot’ Cabernet Franc 2011
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula $40.00 13.9% alcohol
Mixed field berry fruit, pipe tobacco and exotic spice aromas herald a well-balanced, nicely structured river of sweet, ripe mulberry, black currant and baking spice. There’s purity of fruit, good concentration and soft tannin in the well-knit frame. The finish replays palate flavours garnished with mocha, cassis and piquant spice. Good to go now; pour with a generous slab of seasoned, grilled beef tenderloin. (Vic Harradine)
Thirty Bench ‘Small Lot’ Merlot 2011
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula $40.00 14.2% alcohol
Black currant and sweet vanilla mingle with aromas of fennel and charred toast on the nose of this densely packed, rich and savory gem. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouth feel and a solid underpinning of ripe, fine-grained tannin. Tangy sour cherry and red currant garnished with black tea and sprigs of green herbs bathe the palate, replaying on the lively and fresh, lip-smacking aftertaste. Aerate/decant three-hours pouring with grilled pork bellies. (Vic Harradine)
Thirty Bench ‘Wood Post Vineyard’ Small Lot Riesling 2012
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula $40.00 10.7% alcohol
Enchanting aromas of lemon-lime, ripe quince and wisps of diesel fill the room. A gusher of ripe apple and pear interlace with tangy lime cordial on the palate, medium weight and creamy in texture. The lip-smacking finish is complex and monumental in length—crisp and refreshing with highlights of mandarin orange and flinty minerality. Pour on its own or alongside sushi, sashimi or grilled sea-food under a squirt of freshly squeezed lemon. (Vic Harradine)
New in Private Order
Order the following by the case for home, restaurant or office (in Ontario) 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.
Bodega El Grillo y La Luna grapes are hand picked, hand sorted and vinified under the watchful eye and guidance of the iconic, ubiquitous wine consultant, Michel Rolland.
Bodega El Grillo y La Luna ‘12 Lunas Blanco’ 2013
DO Somontano, Spain $24.95 14.0% alcohol
This lovely Chardonnay/Gewürztraminer blend delivers aromas of floral notes, exotic spice and pineapple before caressing the palate with a glorious wash of spice-laden citrus, grilled pineapple and white peach. It’s mid-full weight with good mouth feel, structure and charm. The finish and aftertaste are balanced and brimming with fruit flavour and notes of minerality. Pour with pan-seared scallops or roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)
Bodega El Grillo y La Luna ‘12 Lunas Tinto’ 2012
DO Somontano, Spain $19.95 14.0% alcohol
A value-laden gem of a red blend—Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Garnacha, Syrah, it dishes up aromas of sandalwood, pipe tobacco and graphite. Lively red cherry, cassis and charred toast coat the palate infusing the lengthy, lip-smacking finish. Showcasing purity of fruit, good structure—some still-evolving tannin—and promise of even better, it’s mid-full bodied, nicely textured with an aftertaste of kirsch liqueur and black cherry. Pour with grilled strip loin and Portobello mushroom. (Vic Harradine)
Bodega El Grillo y La Luna ‘Grillo’ 2012
DO Somontano, Spain $69.95 14.5% alcohol
Opaque, saturated and brooding in the glass, aromas of cassis, cedar and baking spice abound in this magical red blend—Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Garnacha, Merlot. It’s beautifully knit with richness of flavour—black cherry, spiced black currant, dark chocolate and ripe mulberry coating the palate robed with mid-full weight and creamy smooth texture. Firm, ripe tannin, purity of fruit and moderating acidity provide structure and balance—the aftertaste is monumental. Drink over the next 18 years. (Vic Harradine)
Cheers, Vic and Susan