Wine Picks LCBO VINTAGES Release August 18, 2018: Australia + Europe Less Travelled

The upcoming August 18, 2018 LCBO VINTAGES Release features wines from Australia as its main theme, while the mini-theme is titled "Europe less travelled". The underlying message is really a chance for you to explore what's new in Australia, as well as the wines from Europe's lesser-known wine regions. There are also a couple of other relatively obscure wines from the New World. All of these wines will be on LCBO VINTAGES shelves across Ontario this Saturday.

We'll begin with the main theme that features fifteen wines, five of which are included among my top wine picks. The island of Tasmania has been making wine for many years, but only recently has it been gaining notoriety (some of it due to climate change) for wines such as the Jansz Sparkling Rosé that is a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Australians are also innovating with wines such as rosé made with Sangiovese, a blend of 81% Syrah and 19% Gamay Noir, and an interesting Pinot Noir from Yarra Valley. And if you've never tried Hunter Valley Semillon, this release has a good one that should age for at least half a decade. Lastly, there is a wild fermented Savagnin that is a Flagship Exclusive (FE).

The mini-theme features a total of ten wines from six off-the-beaten-path European winemaking countries - Austria, Georgia, Lebanon, Greece, Hungary, and Romania. Personally, I wouldn't include Greece as part of this list, but that is a discussion for another day. Four of the wines are included among my wine recommendations. There is a Grüner Veltliner from Austria and a nice dessert wine from Hungary that is a blend of 70% Furmint and 30% Harslevelu. Both Greek wines featured are also among my recommended buys - a nicely floral Moschofilero and a 2010 red made with Agiorgitiko.

A pair of wines off-the-beaten-path from the New World include a Tannat from Uruguay, and for sweet wine lovers there is an off-dry Kerner from Niagara.

Among my top red wine picks, the Côte du Rhône from France is a blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre, while the Ribera del Duero from Spain is a blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Enjoy my wine recommendations from this Release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• CAVINO NEMEA GRANDE RESERVE 2010 - PDO Nemea, Greece (#295618) (XD) - $17.95  89 pts  wine review
• LA FERME DU MONT PREMIÈRE CÔTE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2016 - AP, France (#251645) (XD) - $18.95  88 pts  wine review
• GARZON RESERVA TANNAT 2015 - Uruguay (#558916) (D) - $19.95
• CHAKANA ESTATE SELECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015 - Gualtallary, Tupungato, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#555540) (XD) - $19.95
• DE BORTOLI G.S. PINOT NOIR 2017 - Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia (#015511) (XD) - $19.95
• VILLACRECES PRUNO 2016 - DO Ribera del Duero, Spain (#312140) (XD) - $22.95  89 pts  wine review
• LA BOHÈME ACT FOUR SYRAH/GAMAY 2017 - Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia (#571141) (XD) - $24.95
• KEINT-HE PORTAGE PINOT NOIR 2014 - VQA Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada (#373415) (XD) - $25.00  89 pts  wine review
• STEPHEN ROSS SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS PINOT NOIR 2015 - Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California, USA (#568246) (XD) - $42.95
• VERSADO RESERVA ANCIENT MALBEC 2013 - Mendoza, Argentina (#316984) (XD) - $59.95

White Wine:

• ZACHARIAS MOSCHOFILERO 2016 - PGI Peloponnese, Greece (#548222) (XD) - $14.95
• ESTERHÁZY GALÁNTHA GRÜNER VELTLINER 2017 - Qualitätswein, Burgenland, Austria (#568501) (XD) - $16.95
• LAKEVIEW CELLARS MORGAN VINEYARD KERNER 2017 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#443614) (D) - $17.95  87 pts  wine review
• ORGANIZED CRIME CHARDONNAY 2016 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#408435) (XD) - $18.95
• VILLA SPARINA GAVI DI GAVI 2016 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#541854) (XD) - $19.95
• PACO & LOLA ALBARIÑO 2017 - DO Rías Baixas, Spain (#350041) (XD) - $19.95
• RUSTENBERG CHARDONNAY 2016 - WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#598631) (XD) - $19.95
• BROKENWOOD SEMILLON 2016 - Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia (#657726) (XD) - $22.95
• HENRI DE VILLAMONT PRESTIGE BOURGOGNE CHARDONNAY 2015 - AC, Burgundy, France (#416123) (XD) - $24.95  89 pts  wine review
• SOUMAH WILD SAVAGNIN 2015 - Hexham Vineyard, Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia (#572743) (XD) - $31.95  FE
• RADFORD DALE RENAISSANCE CHENIN BLANC 2016 - WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#320853) (XD) - $39.95  FE

Rosé Wine:

• THE FLOOZIE SANGIOVESE ROSÉ 2017 - McLaren Vale, South Australia (#558106) (XD) - $19.95

Sparkling Wine:

• JANSZ PREMIUM SPARKLING ROSÉ - Tasmania, Australia (#037499) (D) - $27.95
• CHÂTEAU DE BLIGNY BRUT BLANC DE BLANCS CHAMPAGNE - AC, France (#385112) (D) - $54.95

Dessert Wine:

• CHÂTEAU DERESZLA 5 PUTTONYOS TOKAJI ASZÚ 2009 - Tokaj, Hungary (#012203) (S) (500 mL) - $46.95

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Dandelion Lioness of McLaren Vale Shiraz 2016 (Australia) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is an Australian Shiraz that recently arrived in LCBO VINTAGES on June 23rd.

Dandelion Vineyards is a unique fusion of vineyards and vignerons. The wines represent decades of experience, blending the fruit of old vine gardens with the finest traditions of artisan winemaking, while also allowing the unique character of these vineyards to express their terroir.

The grapes for the Lioness of McLaren Vale Shiraz are sourced from Angus and Helen Tuck's vineyard located in the subregion of Bakers Gully, in the foothills of McLaren Vale. These are mature vines are grown on ironstone pebble laden clay loam, over ancient Kurrajong Formation geology, a silica cemented conglomerate most suited to grow Shiraz.

Tasting Note:

DANDELION LIONESS OF MCLAREN VALE SHIRAZ 2016 - McLaren Vale, South Australia (#357475) (XD) - $21.95
Hand-picked and pressed in whole bunches, and raised in 20% new and 80% older French Oak barriques for 18 months. Screw cap. The medium-high intensity nose offers aromas of black plum, blackberry, jammy, black peppercorn, and oak spices with some jamminess. On the medium-full bodied palate, this has vibrant acids and nice black peppercorn and blue fruit aroma replays in a dry flavour profile, with jamminess firmly in the background. Rounded tannins are ripe, dusty, and smooth. Black peppercorn and chocolate notes linger on the long finish. Score: 88+ pts

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Wine Reviews - June 24 Birthday Party

On Sunday, June 24, we threw a birthday party at Bombay Touch in Thornhill for my son who just turned a year old. I brought in my own wines for the occasion, spanning a fairly wide range of categories so that each guest could find at least one wine that would appeal to their palate. Wines styles included a dry rosé, a dry white wine, a sweet white wine, and a variety of dry red wines. The most popular wines were the Mencía, the rosé, and the Riesling.

All of the wines are fairly recent additions to VINTAGES and should still be available for purchase in the VINTAGES section at the LCBO. Wines reviews of each of the wines are posted below.

Tasting Notes:

MALIVOIRE VIVANT ROSÉ 2017 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#498535) (XD) - $19.95
Screw cap. Pale pink colour much the same as Provence. Lovely, highly aromatic, bright and fresh aromas of mineral, white grapefruit, and lemon citrus. The palate is dry with complex white grapefruit, orange peel, herbs, and mineral with hints of lemon, on a medium-full bodied frame and lifted with crisp, vibrant acidity. Nicely balanced throughout with hints of strawberry and cherry flavours. Excellent finish length with lemony nuances. Released in LCBO VINTAGES on May 12. Score: 91 pts

TAHBILK MARSANNE 2017 - Nagambie Lakes, Central Victoria, Australia (#117945) (XD) - $17.95
Screw cap. Fresh and highly aromatic with grassy, lemon/lime, pear, flinty mineral, and hints of herbal and stone fruits. It has a dry, medium+ body palate with a nice, slightly chalky texture and balanced aroma replays. Balanced acids with a touch viscous mouthfeel on the mid-palate, while the finish is long with nice mineral notes. Released in LCBO VINTAGES on June 9. Score: 89 pts

TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA RIESLING 2016 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#089029) (M) - $18.95
Screw cap. Wow. Highly aromatic and pretty aromas of peach and orange which give way to ripe apple, mineral and hints of petrol. It's medium+ bodied on the palate with very good fruit concentration and medium sweet flavours that are nicely balanced and mimic the aroma profile. High acids are crisp and provide a lip-smacking, long finish with just a touch of sourness. Released in LCBO VINTAGES on June 9. Score: 90 pts

ROMIO PRIMITIVO 2016 - IGT Puglia, Italy (#569954) (XD) - $13.95
Full review here.

MARRENON VERSANT NORD LUBERON 2015 - AC, Rhône, France (#537969) (XD) - $15.95
A single vineyard blend of 80% Syrah and 20% Grenache. The medium-high intensity aromas offer complex blackberry, dark currant, pepper, and meaty aromas with some savoury and dark cherry notes as well. On the medium-full bodied, crunchy palate, it has plummy, blueberry, and dark berry flavours, plus savoury hints of oak spice and peppery notes. Vibrant acids and supple tannins with a touch of grip add to the character of this wine, while the finish length is very good. Released in LCBO VINTAGES on May 26. Score: 88+ pts

WAKEFIELD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2016 - Clare Valley, South Australia (#744235) (XD) - $19.95
Full review here.

GANCEDO XESTAL MENCÍA 2010 - DO Bierzo, Spain (#553743) (XD) - $17.95
From 60+ year old vines, this maturing Mencía has a gorgeous, highly aromatic nose offering a pretty bouquet of red cherry, raspberry, red floral, and sweet oak spice. It's full bodied with fine, dusty tannins providing some grip, and very appealing aroma replays, plus some baking spice and cinnamon, and earthy/savoury elements on the flavour profile. Acids are juicy. Touch warming on the mid-palate. Excellent finish length. Released in LCBO VINTAGES on June 9. Score: 90 pts

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Wakefield Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 (Australia) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a perennial visitor to the LCBO and was recently released into VINTAGES on May 12th. It is widely available across Ontario.

Wakefield Wines is a family-owned winery based near the Wakefield River in Clare Valley, South Australia. The Taylor family planted their first vineyards (Cabernet Sauvignon) in 1969 with a vision to create authentic, estate grown wines. When Bill Taylor Sr. excavated a dam to secure a water source, he discovered tiny seahorses in the limestone bedrock - a reminder that these soils were under water more than 600 million years ago. The seahorse quickly became the symbol of the family's wine brand, with three seahorses now representing the three generations of Taylor family winemakers.

The family is also committed to operating in a responsible and sustainable manner to help protect the environment. In 2009, Wakefield received their ISO14001 certification for their Environmental Management System (EMS) which demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship. The EMS assists with identifying and controlling environmental impacts throughout the wine-growing process such as environmental risks, impact on land and biodiversity, and water conservation.

Wakefield has won numerous medals for its wines, including this Cabernet Sauvignon. They also had a run of four years (from 2013 to 2016) being named one of the top 5 wineries in the world. In 2004, they were the first major Australian wine company to bottle 100% of their wines under screw cap - a trend which continues all over the world today.

Tasting Note:

WAKEFIELD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2016 - Clare Valley, South Australia (#744235) (XD) - $19.95
Screw cap. This has evergreen aromas wrapped around cassis, red and black fruits, dark currants and sweet oak, with medium+ intensity. On the medium-full bodied palate, this has medium-firm, gritty tannins with nice aroma replays, and just a touch of sweetness hidden by the bright acids. The finish length is very good. Age 2+ years for better tannin integration. Score: 87 pts

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Rawson's Retreat Private Release Chardonnay 2013 (Australia) - Wine Review

This wine was purchased at a Liquor World (the liquor store attached to New World IGA Supermarket) in Suva, Fiji, and opened while there on a recent vacation. At each of the few liquor shops I visited, shelves were stocked with mostly wines from Australia and New Zealand. I recognized quite a few of the wine brands, however, I would be hard pressed to find these specific wines at an LCBO.

Since I wanted to try something new, and with almost no shelf talkers or award stickers, I was pretty much in the dark as to what to get. I opted for this white wine made by Penfolds, a fairly reliable brand owned by Treasury Wine Estates that tends to produce quality wines throughout the range, and because Chardonnay tends to pair well with local Spiny Lobster.

Tasting Note:

RAWSON'S RETREAT PRIVATE RELEASE CHARDONNAY 2013 - South Eastern Australia (XD) - $33 FJD / ~$22 CAD
The medium intensity nose is very ripe with banana, tropical fruit, melon, and citrus fruit aromas. On the medium bodied palate it is a touch sweet with stone fruit and pear aroma replays, plus a salty mineral character and hints of lime. It has fresh acids and sweet vanilla notes with good length on the finish. Score: 87 pts

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Nugan Annelise Pinot Grigio 2017 (Australia) - Wine Review

Opened up this crisp Pinot Grigio on this fine Autumn day (that feels more like Spring, to be honest) and is widely available at the LCBO. This white wine is also currently on promotion, offering 10 Bonus Air Miles with every purchase until November 4.

This white wine is produced by Nugan Estate from Australia and seems to be made for Canada-only as I can't find any info about this wine on the winery's website. The Nugan Group was founded in 1940 by Alfredo Nugan, after he emigrated from Spain with his family, including his wife Annelise, to start a small fruit and vegetable packing operation in New South Wales. This wine is part of a limited release collection of wines that are a tribute to the family's vision and passion to pursue their ideals of outstanding quality and service.

While you may see the 2016 vintage on shelves right now, the 2017 will be arriving soon and can be enjoyed over the holidays. This will pair nicely with salads, seafood, and poultry. It will also pair with turkey cooked in the traditional manner - a recipe for Traditional Turkey has been provided below.

Tasting Note:

NUGAN ANNELISE PINOT GRIGIO 2017 - New South Wales, Australia (#483230) (XD) - $14.95
Screw cap. This has appealing aromas of pear, green apple, grapefruit, lime, tropical fruits and minerals of modest intensity. The palate is bright and crisp with vibrant acids that are nicely balanced on a slightly honeyed, yet dry, flavour profile with more citrus, pear, apple flavours and some mineral accents. Some interesting saline notes mid-palate. Good finish length. Score: 87 pts

Traditional Turkey Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 12 lb. turkey, preferably fresh

Rub:

• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• Zest of one lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp kosher salt

Stuffing:

• 1 pear, quartered
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 1 white onion, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 cup fresh parsley
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme

To Prepare:
In a small bowl combine all ingredients for the rub. Mix with a fork until well incorporated. Set aside. Using your fingers, gently separate the skin from the breast muscle. Using your hands, grab small portions of the butter and place between turkey skin and meat. Make sure to evenly spread throughout as this will help with consistent browning. Lather the outside skin as well. Place turkey on a wire rack over top of a baking sheet and chill uncovered in the fridge for 6–12 hours.

To Cook:
Pull the turkey from the fridge. Stuff the cavity with pear, lemon, onion, garlic, parsley and thyme. Twine the legs together and fold the wings under the breast. Let the turkey stand at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Preheat oven to 450°F. Season the turkey with salt and place in the oven for 25 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 320°F and cook for 1 hour 45 minutes or until the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. When finished, remove from the oven and loosely tent with tin foil. Rest at room temperature for 1 hour before serving.

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June 10, 2017 VINTAGES Release: Australia + France + Father's Day + Canada 150

The June 10, 2017 VINTAGES Release will be on shelves at LCBO outlets across Ontario this coming Saturday and has four themes featured. In this Release, the main themes are warm-weather wines from Australia, French wines under $20, Father's Day gifts, and many Canadian wines to celebrate Canada 150. There could also easily be a fifth theme with all of the fine Rosé wines listed.

We'll begin with main theme which lists twelve wines for summer fare from Australia. Just two of the twelve wines made my list of wine picks, and includes a nice Aussie Shiraz from Margaret River in Western Australia. The other wine from Australia is a Viognier from Tahbilk - a family-owned winery since 1860 that was named 2016 Winery of the Year by James Halliday.

As part of the Australian thematic, there's a neat side note about wine serving temperatures. As a general rule, you should chill your white wines for 2 hours in the fridge (or 20 minutes in an ice bucket), rose wines for 1.5 hours in the fridge (or 15 minutes in an ice bucket), and red wines for 1 hour in the fridge (or 10 minutes in an ice bucket).

The second theme of the release is titled "French Lessons" and lists seven wines from France, all under $20, two of which are included among my top wine recommendations. From Beaujolais, there is a Gamay from Vieilles Vignes (i.e. Old Vines) that are more than 40 years old. The second wine from this mini-theme is a mature Malbec from Cahors, the native home of the Malbec grape.

From the Father's Day thematic which listed five wines plus a Cognac, and being a Father myself, I would love to have either the Châteauneuf-du-Pape (which is a blend of 50% Syrah, 40% Grenache, and 10% Mourvèdre) or the Amarone that is a blend of 70% Corvina/Corvinone, 20% Rondinella, and 10% Croatina/Oseleta.

For Canada 150 celebrations, there are sixteen wines listed and many good choices among them. Viognier is not grown much in Ontario, but there's a good one from Creekside, a producer that's been making quality Viognier for quite a few years now. A pair of dry rosés are also worth your attention, one is made by Creekside using Cabernet Sauvignon, while the Malivoire Rosé is made with Pinot Noir.

This leads us into the fine selection of rosé wines that are being released, most of which are from France. The rosé wine from Rhône is a blend of Syrah and Grenache, while the La Riviera is a blend of Grenache and Cinsault, and the Leoube Rosé consists of Grenache, Cinsault with touches of Syrah and Mourvèdre.

In red wines from the rest of the release, from Midi, the M. Chapoutier is a blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Carignan, while the Bugadelles is a blend of Syrah and Grenache. From Spain, the Crianza is 100% Tempranillo, while the Rioja is actually a blend of 77% Tempranillo, 10% Garnacha, 8% Graciano, and 5% Mazuelo. From Chile, the Intriga Cabernet Sauvignon contains 8% Cabernet Franc, and last but not least, the Barbaresco from Piedmont is made with Nebbiolo.

Among my white wine picks, the white Bordeaux is mostly Sauvignon Blanc, with Semillon added to complete the blend. For sweet wine lovers, the mature Riesling Kabinett should be on your list, as well as the Tokaji from Hungary.

Enjoy my wine recommendations from this release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• M. CHAPOUTIER LES VIGNES DE BILA-HAUT CÔTES DU ROUSSILLON VILLAGES 2015 - AC, Midi, France (#168716) (XD) - $15.95
• LIONEL OSMIN & CIE CAHORS MALBEC 2012 - AC Cahors, Southwest, France (#247544) (XD) - $16.95
• OVIDIO GARCÍA ESENCIA CRIANZA 2009 - DO Cigales, Spain (#489757) (XD) - $18.95
• STÉPHANE AVIRON VIEILLES VIGNES MOULIN-À-VENT 2013 - AC, Beaujolais, France (#368134) (XD) - $19.95
• FRANKLIN TATE ESTATES SHIRAZ 2015 - Margaret River, Western Australia (#489948) (XD) - $19.95
• INTRIGA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 - Maipo Valley, Chile (#057901) (XD) - $22.95  reviewed here
• DOMAINE LES BUGADELLES 2014 - IGP Pays d’Oc, Midi, France (#493536) (XD) - $25.95  FSE
• MARQUÉS DE MURRIETA FINCA YGAY RESERVA 2012 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#209148) (D) - $29.95
• PASQUALE PELISSERO BRICCO SAN GIULIANO BARBARESCO 2012 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#214551) (XD) - $38.95
• CHÂTEAU FORTIA CUVÉE DU BARON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2013 - AC, Rhône, France (#959999) (D) - $44.95
• LATIUM MORINI CAMPO LEÒN AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA 2011 - DOC, Veneto, Italy (#334300) (D) - $46.95

White Wine:

• BELLINGHAM HOMESTEAD SERIES THE OLD ORCHARDS CHENIN BLANC 2015 - WO Paarl, South Africa (#484055) (XD) - $15.95
• CHÂTEAU ROQUEFORT BLANC 2016 - AC Bordeaux, France (#313346) (XD) - $16.95
• TAHBILK VIOGNIER 2016 - Nagambie Lakes, Central Victoria, Australia (#271387) (XD) - $18.95  reviewed here
• MARKUS HUBER TERRASSEN GRÜNER VELTLINER 2015 - DAC Traisental, Austria (#484956) (XD) - $19.95  reviewed here
• HEDGES H.I.P DIONYSUS VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2013 - Columbia Valley, Washington, USA (#488528) (XD) - $19.95
• SCHLOSS SCHÖNBORN HATTENHEIM NUSBRUNNEN RIESLING KABINETT 2008 - Hattenheim, Rheingau, Germany (#496497) (MS) - $19.95
• DOMAINE RAOUL GAUTHERIN CHABLIS 2014 - AC, Burgundy, France (#488809) (XD) - $24.95
• CREEKSIDE RESERVE VIOGNIER 2014 - Queenston Road Vineyard, VQA St. David’s Bench, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#264168) (D) - $29.95

Rosé Wine:

• CREEKSIDE CABERNET ROSÉ 2016 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#048819) (XD) - $14.95
• CHÂTEAU VAL JOANIS TRADITION ROSÉ 2016 - AP Luberon, Rhône, France (#707281) (XD) - $15.95
• LA RIVIERA CÔTES DE PROVENCE ROSÉ 2016 - AP Côtes de Provence, France (#494120) (XD) - $18.95
• MALIVOIRE VIVANT ROSÉ 2016 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#498535) (XD) - $19.95
• CHÂTEAU LÉOUBE ROSÉ DE LÉOUBE 2016 - AC Côtes de Provence, France (#491100) (XD) - $25.95

Dessert Wine:

• CHÂTEAU DERESZLA 5 PUTTONYOS TOKAJI ASZÚ 2009 - Tokaj-Hegyalja, Hungary (#012203) (S) (500 mL) - $45.95

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VINTAGES Release April 15, 2017: Mediterranean + Aussie Whites

The upcoming LCBO VINTAGES Release on April 15, 2017 will be on shelves this coming Saturday and features wines that basked in the Mediterranean Sun as its main theme, while the mini-theme highlights 3 styles of Aussie white wines perfect for Spring sipping.

We'll begin with the main feature on wines from sunny Mediterranean countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece and Croatia. Even though this is the main feature, it only lists 8 wines. On the bright side, 3 of the 8 wines are included among my top wine picks. From Italy, there is a nice, clean and lively Fiano from the sunny climes of Campania in southwestern Italy. Also from Italy is a lovely blend of local varietals Nerello Mascalese (95%) and Nerello Cappuccio (5%) from the island of Sicily in southern Italy - the grapes for this wine come from the volcanic soils on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. The third and final wine from the main theme is the Jaspi Negre (Black Jade) and consists of 45% Grenache, 25% Carignan, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% Syrah from vines that are as much as 90 years old.

Likewise, the mini-theme of Aussie whites for Spring sipping lists only 7 wines, but 3 are included among my wine recommendations. First up is a premium off-dry Riesling with bright acids. Meanwhile, the Tournon Mathilda is a blend of Viognier and Marsanne, while the Alkoomi is a blend of 67% Semillon and 33% Sauvignon Blanc.

Other whites in this release include the Bordeaux Blanc that's a blend of 55% Sauvignon Blanc and 45% Sémillon, the Muscadet Sèvre & Maine that is made with the Melon de Bourgogne varietal, and the 1er Cru Chablis is a lightly oaked Chardonnay.

In red wines from France, the Château de Tréviac is a blend of Syrah and Grenache, and the Château Beau-Site is a blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and some Merlot. In the Riojas from Spain, the Lealtanza is 100% Tempranillo, while the Muga Rioja is a blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha / Mazuelo / Graciano. And lastly, the Napa Cab is actually a blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 9% Merlot, 1% Malbec, 1% Petite Verdot, and 1% Syrah.

Enjoy my wine picks from this release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• BOUTARI NAOUSSA XINOMAVRO 2014 - PDO Naoussa, Greece (#023218) (XD) - $13.95  reviewed here
• ECHEVERRIA GRAN RESERVA PINOT NOIR 2014 - Leyda Valley, Chile (#485284) (XD) - $15.95
• CHÂTEAU DE TRÉVIAC 2014 - AP Corbières, Midi, France (#670505) (XD) - $16.95
• RUCA MALEN RESERVA MALBEC 2013 - Mendoza, Argentina (#482778) (XD) - $17.95
• JASPI NEGRE 2013 - DO Montsant, Spain (#481085) (XD) - $17.95
• TORNATORE NERELLO MASCALESE 2014 - DOC Etna Rosso, Sicily, Italy (#487090) (XD) - $21.95
• LEALTANZA SELECCIÓN DE FAMILIA RESERVA 2009 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#472704) (XD) - $29.95  FSE
• CLOSSON CHASE CLOSSON CHASE VINEYARD PINOT NOIR 2014 - VQA Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada (#145888) (XD) - $29.95  FSE  reviewed here
• CHÂTEAU BEAU-SITE 2011 - AC Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux, France (#967844) (XD) - $44.95
• SEQUOIA GROVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#060020) (XD) - $64.95
• MUGA PRADO ENEA GRAN RESERVA 2009 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#743310) (XD) - $57.95  FSE

White Wine:

• ALKOOMI WHITE LABEL SÉMILLON/SAUVIGNON BLANC 2016 - Frankland River, Western Australia (#428383) (XD) - $16.95
• LA GRIFFE BERNARD CHÉREAU MUSCADET SÈVRE & MAINE 2015 - Sur Lie, AP, Loire, France (#948182) (XD) - $16.95
• PORCONERO FIANO 2015 - IGP Campania, Italy (#485201) (XD) - $16.95
• LÉGENDE BORDEAUX BLANC 2015 - AC Bordeaux, France (#479808) (XD) - $17.95
• M. CHAPOUTIER TOURNON MATHILDA 2014 - Victoria, Australia (#401398) (XD) - $17.95
• ATTEMS PINOT GRIGIO 2015 - IGT Venezia Giulia, Venezia, Italy (#707950) (D) - $19.95  reviewed here
• SACRED HILL RESERVE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2016 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#490326) (XD) - $21.95
• MITCHELL WATERVALE RIESLING 2014 - Clare Valley, South Australia (#487785) (D) - $21.95
• CHANSON PÈRE ET FILS MONTMAINS CHABLIS 1ER CRU 2013 - AC, Burgundy, France (#485318) (XD) - $44.95

Sparkling Wine:

• JACQUESSON CUVÉE NO. 739 EXTRA BRUT CHAMPAGNE - AC, France (#234120) (XD) - $72.95

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Domaine Tournon Mathilda Shiraz 2011 (Australia) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine is a lovely Shiraz made by the visionary Michel Chapoutier. It was purchased nearly three years ago from the June 7 LCBO VINTAGES Release, and, obviously, not currently available at the LCBO, but does periodically show up in VINTAGES. As luck would have it, the 2013 vintage will be on VINTAGES shelves on April 29.

Tasting Note:

DOMAINE TOURNON MATHILDA SHIRAZ 2011 - Victoria, Australia (#327395) (XD) - $19.95
Screw cap. Medium-high aromatics with terrific complexity offering white pepper, garrigue, blackberry, mint, with some earthy/barnyard funk. Dusty tannins are nicely integrated with just a touch of grip on the medium-bodied palate. Juicy blackberry, white pepper, black cherry, mint, earth and wood flavours in a dry style, Acids are fresh. Nice, long earthy finish. Old world in style and highly drinkable. Enjoyed with homemade butter chicken tonight. Score: 90 pts

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VINTAGES Release February 18: Australia + Ontario + Israel

The upcoming VINTAGES Release on February 18 will be on LCBO shelves across Ontario this Saturday and features diverse wines from Australia as its main theme, while the mini-theme highlights award-winning wines from Ontario. There's also a third feature - a mini-theme on wines from Israel for upcoming Passover celebrations.

Wines from each of the five major wine regions of Australia are represented in the main thematic, with a total of fourteen wines listed, six of which are included among my wine picks. The island of Tasmania is known for their sparkling wines, and the wine featured in this release is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. On to mainland Australia, from Victoria in South Eastern Australia is the Fowles Stone Dwellers Shiraz, and from Coonawarra is a Penfolds Shiraz. Barossa is one of my favourite Australian wine regions, and both wines listed are blends - Yalumba's The Strapper GSM (Grenache/Shiraz/Mataro) and Oscar's Shiraz/Viognier. And lastly, from Clare Valley on the western side of South Eastern Australia is Jim Barry's Lodge Hill Shiraz. You'll find that most wines from Australia these days use a screw cap enclosure, which certainly makes opening a bottle of wine that much easier.

Only four wines were chosen for the award-winning Ontario wines feature, and two are included among my wine picks. The excellent Tawse Sketches of Niagara Riesling is a returnee to VINTAGES, while the other wine is a Marsanne. Yes, I didn't know Ontario made any Marsanne either.

Red wines from the rest of the release include a Bierzo Crianza that is back in VINTAGES and is made with Mencía, while the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a blend of 90% Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese clone) and 10% Merlot. Also from Tuscany is the Ghizzano that's a blend of 70% Sangiovese and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. And finally, single varietal wines include the Saint-Joseph from Rhône that is 100% Syrah, and the Lungarotti (which is a Flagship Store Exclusive [FSE]) which is 100% Sagrantino.

In white wines, the Greek wine is a blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Assyrtiko, while the Rhône white is a blend of 40% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc, 15% Clairette, 10% Viognier, and 5% Bourboulenc.

From my sparkling wine recommendations, the Champagne is a blend of 60% Pinot Meunier, 30 Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Noir, while the Limoux is a blend of 90% Mauzac and 10% Chardonnay.

Red Wine:

• ABAD DOM BUENO CRIANZA 2006 - DO Bierzo, Spain (#244699) (XD) - $15.95  reviewed here
• SANTA CAROLINA SPECIALTIES DRY FARMING CARIGNAN 2012 - Cauquenes Valley, Chile (#213520) (XD) - $17.95
• OSCAR’S ESTATE VINEYARD SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER 2013 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (#287961) (XD) - $18.95
• FOWLES STONE DWELLERS SHIRAZ 2013 - Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria, Australia (#265967) (D) - $19.95
• YALUMBA THE STRAPPER GSM 2014 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (#295873) (D) - $19.95
• TENUTA DI GRACCIANO DELLA SETA VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2012 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#487074) (XD) - $21.95
• JIM BARRY THE LODGE HILL SHIRAZ 2013 - Clare Valley, South Australia (#998476) (XD) - $24.95
• TENUTA DI GHIZZANO VENEROSO 2012 - DOC Terre di Pisa, Tuscany, Italy (#103218) (XD) - $29.95
• PENFOLDS BIN 128 SHIRAZ 2014 - Coonawarra, South Australia (#509919) (XD) - $34.95
• MAISON NICOLAS PERRIN SAINT-JOSEPH 2013 - AC, Rhône, France (#225052) (XD) - $39.95
• LUNGAROTTI SAGRANTINO DI MONTEFALCO 2010 - DOCG, Umbria, Italy (#315499) (D) - $42.95  FSE  reviewed here
• CIACCI PICCOLOMINI D’ARAGONA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2011 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#001065) (XD) - $71.95

White Wine:

• SENTIERI PECORINO 2015 - DOC, Abruzzo, Italy (#477752) (XD) - $15.95
• TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA RIESLING 2014 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#089029) (M) - $18.95
• DOMAINE COSTA LAZARIDI AMETHYSTOS WHITE 2015 - PGI Drama, Greece (#984864) (XD) - $19.95  reviewed here
• CHÂTEAU DE NAGES VIEILLES VIGNES COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES 2014 - AC, Rhône, France (#479659) (XD) - $19.95
• KEW MARSANNE 2014 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#485334) (XD) - $19.95
• FIELDING ESTATE BOTTLED RIESLING 2015 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#251439) (M) - $19.95  reviewed here
• CRAGGY RANGE TE MUNA ROAD SINGLE VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2015 - Martinborough, North Island, New Zealand (#466011) (XD) - $25.95
• PASCAL BOUCHARD BEAUROY CHABLIS 1ER CRU 2015 - AC, Burgundy, France (#994350) (XD) - $34.95
• PLANETA CHARDONNAY 2014 - DOC Sicilia, Italy (#485102) (XD) - $45.95  FSE

Sparkling Wine:

• DOMAINE J. LAURENS LE MOULIN BRUT BLANQUETTE DE LIMOUX - Traditional method, AC, France (#180323) (XD) - $19.95  reviewed here
• JANSZ PREMIUM CUVÉE SPARKLING WHITE - Tasmania, Australia (#566828) (D) - $26.95
• LAHERTE FRÈRES ULTRADITION BRUT CHAMPAGNE - AC, France (#478644) (XD) - $48.95

Fortified:

• TAYLOR FLADGATE VINTAGE PORT 2003 - DOC Douro, Portugal (#951962) (S) - $139.95  FSE

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VINTAGES Release Aug. 6: Australia + Greece

The VINTAGES Release on August 6th will be on LCBO shelves this coming Saturday and features Australian wines for grilling and chilling as its main thematic. A small selection of Greek wines are featured in the mini-theme.

Just 12 wines are included in the Aussie wines feature, and only 2 are included among my wine picks. The Best's Shiraz will age for at least a decade and is recommended to pair with grilled chicken wings with a spiced barbecue sauce, while the Hill-Smith Chardonnay would go well with a roasted chicken marinated in lavender & provençal herbs.

The Greek mini-theme has only 6 wines listed and, once again, 2 are included in my wine recommendations. Native to Greece, the Moschofilero is a florally aromatic white wine that's dry and crisp. Gaining in popularity in Greek winemaking (and here in Ontario!) is Syrah; it is more often blended with other local varietals, but single-varietal wines such as the one from Alpha Estate are showing very good potential.

In red wines, the Faugères red is a blend of 55% Syrah, 26% Mourvèdre and 19% Grenache, while the Rhône red is a equal parts Grenache and Syrah, along with 20% Carignan. Also from France, the Bordeaux red is approximately 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc, while the Loire red is 100% Cabernet Franc from 30-year-old vines. Lastly, the wine from Hungary is made with 100% Kekfrankos (a.k.a. Blaufrankisch, Lemberger) from vines more than 40 years old.

Among my white wine picks, Domaine Lafage continues to pump out quality wines at very reasonable prices, such as the Cadireta Blanc which consists of Chardonnay (unusual for this French appellation) and 5% Viognier. Also in this release is a rich Fiano that is a Flagship Store Exclusive (FSE). The South African Chardonnay is made in a reductive, smoky style, while the California Chardonnay is your traditional (for the region) ripe, fruity, heavily oaked Chardonnay.

From the rest of the release, the Gassier rosé is a blend of 40% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 10%
Rolle, 10% Cinsault and 5% Ugni Blanc, while the Bandol rosé is a blend of 40% Mourvèdre, 30% Grenache and 30% Cinsault. And finally, the vintage sparkling wine from South Africa is 100% Chardonnay.

Enjoy my wine recommendations from this release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• CHÂTEAU RIGAUD 2012 - AP Faugères, Midi, France (#393561) (XD) - $16.95  reviewed here
• LES VIGNERONS DU CASTELAS VIEILLES VIGNES SIGNARGUES CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2013 - AC, Rhône, France (#034116) (XD) - $17.95  reviewed here
• BEST’S BIN NO. 1 SHIRAZ 2013 - Great Western, Victoria, Australia (#222323) (D) - $19.95
• CHÂTEAU TOUR DE SARRAIL 2010 - AC Bordeaux, France (#448829) (XD) - $19.95
• KLOOF STREET 2014 - WO Swartland, South Africa (#460964) (XD) - $19.95
• VIGNOBLE DES ROBINIÈRES L’ALOUETTE BOURGUEIL 2014 - AC, Loire, France (#450494) (XD) - $19.95
• ALPHA ESTATE TURTLES VINEYARD SYRAH 2011 - IGP Florina, Greece (#115295) (D) - $21.95  reviewed here
• J. & J. KEKFRANKOS 2011 - Eger, Hungary (#446591) (XD) - $24.95
• LAZZERETTI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2008 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#318352) (XD) - $46.95
• DAMILANO LECINQUEVIGNE BAROLO 2011 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#454488) (XD) - $46.95  FSE
• HARTLEY OSTINI HITCHING POST QUINTA DEL MAR PINOT NOIR 2012 - San Luis Obispo County, California, USA (#456715) (XD) - $58.95  FSE

White Wine:

• THELEMA MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS SUTHERLAND CHARDONNAY 2012 - WO Elgin, South Africa (#146423) (XD) - $15.95
• NALS MARGREID PINOT GRIGIO 2014 - DOC Südtirol/Alto Adige, Italy (#290924) (D) - $16.95
• FEATHERSTONE BLACK SHEEP RIESLING 2015 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#080234) (M) - $16.95  reviewed here
• DOMAINE LAFAGE CADIRETA BLANC 2014 - IGP Côtes Catalanes, Midi, France (#448472) (XD) - $16.95
• TROUPIS MOSCHOFILERO 2015 - PDO Mantinia, Greece (#463422) (XD) - $16.95
• HILL-SMITH ESTATE CHARDONNAY 2014 - Eden Valley, South Australia (#361584) (XD) - $19.95
• SANFORD CHARDONNAY 2012 - Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California, USA (#956003) (XD) - $30.95
• COLLI DI LAPIO FIANO DI AVELLINO 2014 - DOCG, Campania, Italy (#455253) (XD) - $30.95  FSE

Rosé Wine:

• LA CADIERENNE CUVÉE GRANDE TRADITION BANDOL ROSÉ 2015 - AC, Provence, France (#119453) (XD) - $20.95  reviewed here
• CHÂTEAU GASSIER LE PAS DU MOINE ROSÉ 2015 - AP Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire, France (#450874) (XD) - $21.95

Sparkling Wine:

• CATHEDRAL CELLAR BLANC DE BLANCS SPARKLING WINE 2010 - Méthode Cap Classique, WO Western Cape, South Africa (#462762) (D) - $16.95

Fortified Wine:

• OFFLEY 10-YEAR-OLD TAWNY PORT - DOP, Portugal (#297788) (S) - $25.95

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Top Wines from Savour Australia Wine Tasting - May 2016

This mid-May tasting titled "Savour Australia" featured wines from about 25 wineries and was held in a compact room at George Restaurant on Queen Street East. At times, the room felt very small due to the high number of people in attendance. Overall, there were many high quality wines at various price points. As is the case with most tastings, many of the wines are not available at the LCBO, but can be ordered through the winery's representing Agent here in Ontario. Many wines from Australia at this tasting were most definitely savoured and highly recommended. Here are some of my favourite Australian wines from this tasting.

Tasting Notes:

CIRILLO 1850 ANCESTOR SEMILLON 2011 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (#250281) (XD) - $42.65
Vines from 1849 and produced by the 9th generation of this family-owned winery, this Semillon has a very appealing and highly aromatic nose of mineral, wet stone, white flowers and hints honey. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a creamy mouthfeel and tart lime and mineral flavours. It is a dry wine with very good acids and excellent length on the finish. Excellent wine will age for at least 5 years. Superb! Contact Bokke Wines for availability. Now available online at LCBO.com and at the Eglinton & Laird LCBO. Score: 92 pts

HOLLICK RAVENSWOOD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 - Coonawarra, South Australia (XD) - $75
Highly aromatic with elegant notes of sweet spice, red and black fruits, currant, cassis, hints of pencil lead and slightly jammy fruit notes, all of which echo very nicely on the full-bodied palate. Acids are juicy and mouth-watering, while the finish is excellent. Tannins are firm and drying, but also provide very good structure. This should be better in 2-3 years and drink well for at least decade. Contact Lifford Wine & Spirits for availability. Score: 92 pts

ALPHA BOX & DICE APOSTLE SHIRAZ DURIF 2012 - McLaren Vale, South Australia (XD) - $50
This 85/15 blend of Shiraz and Durif (aka Petite Sirah) has a medium-to-high intensity nose of red, black and purple fruits intermingling with sweet spice, herbs, mint and violets. On the palate, it is full-bodied and offers complex aroma replays framed by very good acidity and integrated tannins. In my excitement, I guess I forgot to take a photo of this absolutely delicious wine! Score: 91+ pts

STONIER CHARDONNAY 2015 - Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia (#025353) (XD) - $35
Medium-high intensity nose that's fresh and clean with bright orchard fruits and pear aromas. The mouthfeel is full with a nice texture and pleasing aroma replays on the palate. It has very good acidity and finishes long. Very well-balanced. 30% barrel fermented. Contact Select Wines to order. Score: 90+ pts

KILIKANOON MORT'S BLOCK RIESLING 2015 - Clare Valley, South Australia (#428342) (XD) - $19.95
A medium-to-high intensity nose offers lovely petrol aromas with underlying mineral and wet rock along hints of stone fruit, all of which show up on the flavour profile. There's some sweetness on the palate, but is shaded by bright acids. Minerally finish is long and dry with hints of citrus. Should arrive in VINTAGES in the Fall. Contact Charton Hobbs for quicker availability. Score: 90+ pts

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