italy | VINTAGES Wine Picks & Reviews

Showing posts with label italy. Show all posts

Friday, October 6, 2023

October 7, 2023 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: Classic European Regions

LCBO Wine Picks: October 7, 2023 VINTAGES New Release Collection

Here's my top wine picks from the October 7 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection which is titled "Classic European Regions. It is a big, and very fine release with 141 wines that also includes a selection of Online & Flagship Exclusive wines. All of these wines should be available by this Saturday.

We begin with the feature on Classic European Regions, which include twenty-three wines from seven classic wine producing countries across Europe. From the theme, there are five wines included among my top picks, with the lone white wine is from Spain and it is a blend of 70% Viura (from 80 year old vines) and 30% Maturana Blanca that was fermented and aged in oak. There are three wines from the classic wine producing country of Italy - an Amarone that is a traditional blend of Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, a Barolo that is made with Nebbiolo, and a Brunello di Montalcino that is made with Sangiovese. From France, the Châteauneuf-du-Pape is composed of 60% Grenache Noir, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault, and 5% Counoise.

Masi Campolongo di Torbe Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2015

Tenuta Rocca Comune di Serralunga d'Alba Barolo 2018

Red wine recommendations from the main release begins in France with a 2012 vintage blend from Bordeaux that is crafted with 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernets, while the red from Gigondas is roughly 70/20/10 Grenache / Syrah / Mourvèdre, and the wine from Madiran in Southwest France is composed of 50% Tannat, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 24% Cabernet Franc. The only other blend is a Rioja from Spain that is composed of 80% Tempranillo, 11% Graciano, and 9% Garnacha. Mono-varietal wines should be self-explanatory, but include wines crafted with Malbec from Paraje Altamira in Argentina, an Aglianico from Campania, and a Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia.

Chakana Finca Los Cedros Malbec 2020 (91 pts)

Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (90 pts)

Among my white wine picks from the rest of the release, the only blend is the white wine from Rhone that is a blend of 60% Viognier, 20% Grenache Blanc, and 20% Roussanne. Other fine offerings include a quartet of lovely Chardonnays from Piedmont, California, and Burgundy. If you would like to explore a new grape variety, try the Greek wine that is made with the Kydonitsa varietal. And lastly, if you want something a bit sweet, check out the Riesling from Niagara.

Domaine Pinson Frères Mont-de-Milieu Chablis 1er Cru 2021 (94 pts)

Cambria Katherine's Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 (92 pts)

Les Vignerons du Castelas Le Monarque Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2022 (90 pts)

Other wines include a fine vintage sparkling rosé from Champagne that is a blend of 52% Pinot Noir (14% red wine), 27% Chardonnay, and 21% Meunier, while the Vin Santo is composed of 40% Malvasia Bianca, 30% Trebbiano Toscano, and 30% San Colombano.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

IL POGGIO SANNIO AGLIANICO 2018 - DOP, Campania, Italy (#575225) (XD) - $19.95
CHÂTEAU TOUR DE SARRAIL 2012 - AC Bordeaux, France (#448829) (XD) - $19.95
CHAKANA FINCA LOS CEDROS MALBEC 2020 - Vegan, Paraje Altamira, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (#32142) (XD) - $20.95 91 pts wine review
CHÂTEAU BOUSCASSÉ 2017 - AP Madiran, Southwest, France (#743385) (XD) - $23.95 90+ pts wine review
WAKEFIELD JARAMAN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 - Clare Valley and Coonawarra, South Australia (#142398) (XD) - $24.95 90 pts wine review
CATENA PARAJE ALTAMIRA MALBEC 2021 - Sustainable, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (#492413) (XD) - $24.95

FRANÇOIS-XAVIER LAMBERT PRESTIGE DES DENTELLES GIGONDAS 2020 - AP, Rhône, France (#20952) (XD) - $36.95 FE
REMELLURI RESERVA 2015 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#480160) (XD) - $52.95 FE
DOMAINE DE LA SOLITUDE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2021 - AC, Rhône, France (#560987) (XD) - $54.95
TENUTA ROCCA COMUNE DI SERRALUNGA D'ALBA BAROLO 2018 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#154591) (XD) - $62.95
CORTONESI LA MANNELLA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2017 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#12405) (XD) - $72.95
MASI CAMPOLONGO DI TORBE AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 2015 - DOCG, Veneto, Italy (#548677) (D) - $148.95

White Wine:

VIENI RIESLING 2021 - VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#35299) (M) - $17.95
LES VIGNERONS DU CASTELAS LE MONARQUE CÔTES DU RHÔNE BLANC 2022 - AP, France (#18570) (XD) - $17.95 90 pts wine review
MONEMVASIA KYDONITSA 2021 - PGI Laconia, Greece (#33254) (XD) - $23.95
NIVARIUS LIMITED EDITION BLANCO 2018 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#15591) (XD) - $27.95
RENATO RATTI BRIGATA CHARDONNAY 2022 - DOC Langhe, Piedmont, Italy (#17387) (XD) - $27.95
CAMBRIA KATHERINE'S VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2021 - Sustainable, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, California, USA (#980490) (XD) - $39.95 92 pts wine review
CHANZY LE BOIS CASSIEN MONOPOLE MERCUREY 1ER CRU 2019 - AC, Burgundy, France (#32950) (XD) - $41.95 FE
DOMAINE PINSON FRÈRES MONT-DE-MILIEU CHABLIS 1ER CRU 2021 - AC, Burgundy, France (#700914) (XD) - $74.95 FE 94 pts wine review

Sparkling Wine:

MOËT & CHANDON GRAND VINTAGE EXTRA BRUT ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE 2015 - AC, France (#69831) (XD) - $117.95

Fortified Wine:

FONSECA GUIMARAENS VINTAGE PORT 1998 - Douro, Portugal (#33813) (S) (375 mL) - $46.95

Dessert Wine:

ROSSETTI IL NOSTRO VIN SANTO DEL CHIANTI 2004 - DOC, Tuscany, Italy (#33440) (S) (375 mL) - $26.95

Castello di Bossi C. Berardenga Chianti Classico 2020 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely, organic Chianti Classico made with Sangiovese that arrived at the LCBO last weekend as the Wine of the Month in the September 9 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Castello di Bossi wines are produced by Bacci Wines, a family-owned winery located in Tuscany. The Bacci family has a long history rooted in Tuscany. Bacci Wines was founded by Marco Bacci, who began his working career at the age of 19 in their family business that specialized in clothing, a company that eventually became an icon in Italy's fashion sector. From this success, Marco founded a real estate company to take advantage of the period of economic growth in the sector. In a short time, Marco acquired several properties, including Castello di Bossi in 1984.

Winemaking was a pleasant pasttime for Marco until 1985, when he bottled his first wine. In 1996, he left the fashion sector to dedicate his body and soul to the wine industry and acquired several more estates to reach a grand total of 6 wine estates, mostly in Tuscany. Today, Bacci Wines is not only dedicated to producing high-quality wines from the Tuscan region, but are well-known for their commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices, prioritizing environmental sustainability, and producing their wines with great respect for the land.

Castello di Bossi is situated in the southern half of the Chianti Classico zone, within the territory of the commune of Castelnuovo Berardenga UGA. The site where Castello di Bossi resides has a long history going back to when the first tower was built there in the year 1090. In 1450, the original structure was expanded into the 4-walled fortress that can be seen today. The historic castle is an iconic landmark that also serves as the centrepiece of the winery. The estate has changed hands several times over the years and now covers 650 hectares, with 124 hectares under vines that are mostly planted with Sangiovese. The grapes for this Chianti Classico are typically grown at 350 metres (1,148 feet) above sea level on tufo, brown and yellow clay, and broken stone soils.

I've enjoyed this wine for many years, including most recently the 2018 Castello di Bossi C. Berardenga Chianti Classico last year. The 2020 growing season was a challenging one (due to the pandemic), but offered winegrowers the opportunity to concentrate their efforts towards every aspect of cultivation, vineyard management, and production. While it is difficult to generalize a vintage in Chianti Classico because each UGA experiences its own unique conditions, the vintage quality and quantity in 2020 is good, and in some cases excellent. Let's see how this 2020 Chianti Classico from the Castelnuovo Berardenga UGA is tasting tonight...

Castello di Bossi C. Berardenga Chianti Classico 2020 (90 pts)

Tasting Note:

CASTELLO DI BOSSI C. BERARDENGA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2020 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#994608) (XD) - $22.95
This organic Sangiovese was aged in barrel for 12 months and is fresh and intensely aromatic with a very pretty nose of ripe pure red and dark red cherries that are joined by red currant, baking spices, clove, cinnamon, and gentle oak spice aromas. It's medium-full bodied on the palate with fresh, juicy acidity and ripe flavours of red fruited currant, plum, and cherry, plus cedary oak spice and clove notes adding a savoury component. Ripe, gently drying, and grippy tannins coat the palate. Tangy on the mid-palate, while red currant, plum, cherry, and cedary oak notes with hints of mineral linger on the long finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 3-4 years. Score: 90 pts

Other lovely wines from Castello di Bossi can be purchased from the LCBO or through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia./ Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

La Luna e I Falò Barbera d'Asti Superiore 2020 (Piedmont) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a delicious red wine from Italy that's made with the Barbera grape varietal. It arrived at the LCBO last weekend in the August 19th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Vite Colte, a co-operative winery whose name means the art of cultivating the vine. The co-op is made up of 180 small winegrowers with 300 hectares of vineyards, all situated within Piemonte. The people of Vite Colte share a strong belief in the concept of quality, where the responsibility of individuals is an integral part of the final result. As winegrowers, partners, and friends, the members of Vite Colte are accomplices in a project that demands dedication to quality, which is every bit as strict as the protocols implemented in its pursuit. In order to obtain the highest level of quality, each winegrower is remunerated on the basis of the size of the vineyard, and not on the quantity of product.

The winery, whose architectural design has been reviewed by numerous modern architecture magazines, was inaugurated in 2000 and is located below some of the most prestigious Barolo cru vineyards. New technologies and a philological study of the territory, which gave the Langhe its specificity and identity, were top of mind when architect Gianni Arnaudo designed the winery. Vite Colte also paid great attention to integrating the winery into the landscape, while using eco-compatible signs and materials.

The philosophy at Vite Colte is that quality stems from innovation, as well as knowledge that comes from the interaction between different worlds and generations, such as rural knowledge, experience, tradition, and the Piedmontese passion for meticulous work, combined with modern research and science. Their goal is an absolute and constant quality standard that is the result of agronomic choices aimed at sustainable and selective vineyard management which is focused on achieving perfectly ripe fruit. Each winegrower complies with the protocol, taking prompt action in the vineyard, and defining and monitoring the progress of their work while keeping in contact with the company's team of agronomists. Vineyards used to create their wines are selected based on various factors such as vineyards that are at least 15 years old, low yields per vine, hand harvesting with great attention to harvesting dates, and integrated and/or organic viticulture.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Barbera that was carefully selected from over 60 hectares of low yield vineyards that participate in the "Superbarbera" project. The grapes were blended from vineyards with slightly different soils and micro-climates, which allowed Vite Colte to produce a better wine with the best balance between structure and aroma. It was traditionally vinified, with 10 days of maceration at temperatures between 20-30°C, and then underwent malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged for 12 months in French oak barriques to further enhance its structure. From a very good vintage, let's see how this 2020 Barbera d'Asti is tasting tonight...

La Luna e I Falò Barbera d'Asti Superiore 2020 (89 pts)

Tasting Note:

LA LUNA E I FALÒ BARBERA D'ASTI SUPERIORE 2020 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#627901) (D) - $24.95
The open, medium-high intensity nose offers attractive aromas of plummy, ripe dark red cherry and black berry fruit with mocha, chocolate, vanilla, and spices adding savoury tones. It's medium+ bodied with fresh acidity and some sweetness on the ripe palate with plummy, black cherry, vanilla, and oak spice flavours. Supple, grainy textured tannins deliver a pleasing mouthfeel. Very good length on the crisp, dry finish, with hints of mineral. Enjoy this recommended buy over the next few years. Score: 89 pts

A Barolo by Vite Colte is currently on clearance at the LCBO, while other wines from this producer can be ordered through their Agent - Dionysus Wines & Spirits.

Planeta Frappato 2021 (Sicily) - Wine Review

After enjoying the beautiful 2018 Planeta Frappato Vittoria a couple of years ago, tonight's red wine review is the latest vintage of this terrific (and now organically certified) red wine that arrived at the LCBO last weekend in the July 22 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Planeta, a well-established and respected wine producer based on the island of Sicily, Italy. The Planeta family have been involved in the agricultural evolution on the complex lands of Sicily for over 500 years and 17 generations. Their approach has always been inclined towards openness and innovation, and in the early 1900's, Grandfather Vito led the way towards new solutions and new prospects by transforming the small, family winery in Menfi, in western Sicily, into a large co-operative in a short period of time.

Fast-forward to the mid-1980's, the Planeta family planted their first vines around a 16th century farmhouse, Ulmo, which the family has always owned. They wanted to provide this beautiful place full of memories with a new future and built their first winery at the site in 1995, on the banks of Lake Arancio and its nearby woods. The success of the winery at Ulmo led to further expansion on the island, with the idea of producing each wine in its own territory.

In addition to the winery in Menfi, Planeta also has wineries in Etna, Capo Milazzo, Noto, and where this wine is from - Vittoria. The Dorilli estate was established in Vittoria by renovating the big country house which stood at the centre of the family's landholding in the late-1990's, with the first vines planted in 1997. Vittoria is a place redolent of history and the long agricultural traditions of the Planeta family - even their ancestors couldn't agree on whether Vittoria or Menfi would be better suited to cultivate vines.

Planeta is still family-owned and operated today, with primarily two generations of the family, which includes brothers and sisters, children, nieces and nephews, who work together with a vision of unity, a love for the land, and a desire to protect it by using sustainable and environmentally-friendly viticultural approaches to winemaking. Planeta is also dedicated to producing high-quality wines that showcase the unique terroir of Sicily's diverse wine regions.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Frappato, a rare, exclusive, and sought after variety that is grown in only a few hectares around Vittoria, on the island of Sicily. It is cultivated according to sustainable and organic standards and reaches its ultimate expression in the red sands of Vittoria, not far from the sea, where this wine is from. The soils in Vittoria are primarily sandy textured and consist of mainly loose red sands with a structure of small dimensions, moderately deep. An important layer of tufa (limestone) sits at about 90 cm deep, allowing for water capacity and balance for the plants. This Frappato was grown in the Mogli vineyard, which is located 70 metres above sea level.

The grapes were hand picked and transported to the winery in small trolleys. Once the grapes arrived at the winery, they were de-stemmed and pressed, then fermented in stainless steel tanks. After alcoholic fermentation is completed, the wine remains in contact with the skins for 10-13 days. After malolactic fermentation, the wine remains in stainless steel tanks for further maturation, prior to bottling. From a smaller, but formidable vintage, let's see how this 2021 Frappato from Sicily is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

PLANETA FRAPPATO 2021 - Sustainable, DOC Sicilia Vittoria, Italy (#508655) (XD) - $24.95
Organic, 100% Frappato raised entirely in stainless steel tanks. The fragrant, medium-high intensity nose is elegantly aromatic with red berry, raspberry, herbs, red licorice, cherry, and smoky-stony mineral aromas with touches of floral and earth. On the dry, light-to-mid weighted palate it offers juicy and ripe raspberry, herbal, cherry, earthy mineral flavours that are backed by fresh, well-balanced acidity and light, dusty textured tannins. It has very nice interplays between the berry fruit, savoury mineral, and herbal characters, with the mineral notes lingering through to the long-lasting, gently chalky textured finish. Even better than last time and a highly recommended buy! Score: 91+ pts

Quite a few wines by Planeta are available at the LCBO, albeit in limited quantities, while the whol range can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

Le Vigne di Zamó Il Refosco 2018 (Friuli) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a delicious red wine crafted with the Refosco varietal from Friuli. It arrived at the LCBO earlier this month in the July 8 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Le Vigne di Zamò, a well-known Italian winery situated in the heart of the Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC in Manzano, within the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy. Their story begins in 1924, when the Zamò family opened Osteria di Manzano. It was managed by Luigi, father of Tullio and grandfather of Pierluigi and Silvano. The Zamò family's adventure in wine began in 1978 when Tullio purchased five hectares of vineyards on Rocca Bernarda hill and founded the estate Vigna del Leon.

In 1981, brothers Pierluigi and Silvano Zamò rented vineyards around Rosazzo Abbey from the Diocesan Administration of Udine and created their first wines under the brand new "Abazia di Rosazzo" label. In 1987, two champions of the wine world joined the team Zamò: Silvano Formigli, who was responsible for commercial development, and international acclaimed oenologist - Franco Bernabei. The 1990s were a time of expansion and success, with the family purchasing five hectares of vineyards at Ronchi di Buttrio, and another 15 hectares of vineyards right in front of the Abbey. In 1998, they restored the old farmhouse while also renting the oldest and best exposed vineyards on Rosazzo hill, bringing the total surface area of the estate's vineyards to 35 hectares. At the turn of the century, they purchased two more hectares of land on Rosazzo hill, while also working on extensive renovations.

In 2010, Oscar Farinetti entered into a partnership with Pierluigi and Silvano Zamò. Inspired by Tullio's passion for the land and ancestral love of wine, they decided to continue his work with the aim of maintaining the family nature of the estate. Their philosophy is that making wine is a sign of civilization, while strengthening the link between man and his land, his origins, and tradition. They manage their vineyards using natural methods, including the use of natural fertilizers, such as manure and humus, while keeping grass growth down mechanically. Although the Zamó family have always focused on sustainability in both the vineyard and cellar, the 2021 harvest was the first certified organic harvest for the winery. The family's production philosophy also respects the law and timing of nature as it pertains to the phases of grape growing, a simplistic approach that is reflected in the balance of the wines. While Friuli is internationally renowned for its white wines, the Zamó family have always invested considerably in its red wines, using autochthonous grape varieties such as Pignolo and Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso.

This red wine is crafted using Refosco, a very old family of dark-skinned grape varieties that are native to the Venetian zone in Italy and the surrounding areas such as Friuli. It is believed that Refosco has its ancient origins in the Mediterranean and has been cultivated in Italy for centuries. There are several sub-varieties within the Refosco family and this particular red wine is made using Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso, the most internationally recognizable sub-variety of Refosco, with the most notable examples coming from the Colli Orientali region of Friuli. This particular variant of Refosco has red stems (aka red stalks or peduncle) which hold the grapes to the vine.

To craft this wine, the grapes were de-stemmed and crushed, then transferred to stainless steel maceration vats for 10-12 days. After alcoholic fermentation, the wine was racked into stainless steel tanks and the pomace was pressed. Malolactic fermentation was completed in steel and followed by racking into 25 hL oak barrels where it aged for 12 months. Following ageing, the final wine is blended and bottled. Let's see how this 2018 Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso from Friuli is tasting tonight...

Le Vigne di Zamó Il Refosco 2018 (90+ pts)

Tasting Note:

LE VIGNE DI ZAMÓ IL REFOSCO 2018 - DOC Collio Orientali del Friuli, Italy (#105882) (XD) - $32.95
100% Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso, this has a medium-high intensity nose that is quite attractive with a pleasing mix of ripe, plummy, dark berry, blackberry, black raspberry, and resinous herbal aromas with some earthy barnyard notes laying underneath. It's medium+ to medium-full bodied with high, sharp, and tangy acidity. Ripe and plummy on the dry flavour profile, it's joined by dark berry, black raspberry, and savoury undertones, plus touches of licorice. Tannins are youthful and a touch tight and grippy, while the tangy mid-palate leads to a long, savoury, earthy, and dark berry-tinged finish. A worthy detour and highly recommended buy. Score: 90+ pts

Other lovely wines by Le Vigne di Zamó can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

Tedeschi Capitel Nicalò Valpolicella Superiore 2020 (Veneto) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is the latest vintage of a lovely Valpolicella Superiore that arrived at the LCBO last month as part of the LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on June 24th.

It is produced by Azienda Agricola Tedeschi, also known as Tedeschi Wines, a prominent family-owned winery situated in the Valpolicella region, within Veneto in northeastern Italy. Founded in 1630, Tedeschi has a long and rich history in winemaking spanning over four centuries. Considered one of the leading wineries in Valpolicella, Tedeschi is also a pioneer in crafting cru wines from the region. Tedeschi Winery has been passed down through the generations within the family while having a strong commitment to quality winemaking and respect for traditional winemaking methods.

Today, Tedeschi is a renowned and respected producer of Amarone and other wines from Valpolicella. The winemaking philosophy at Tedeschi is based on patience - to wait for the amount of time required both in the vineyard and in the winery - and dedication - to carefully attend to details and have the appropriate attitude towards the raw materials, while striving to combine long-held family traditions with innovative research, experimentation, and production methods. Their profound attention to detail in the vineyard includes research to uncover the perfect interaction between the characteristics of the soil, micro-climate, sun exposure, selecting the most appropriate varietals, and the cultivation system. The resulting wines are elegant and endowed with marked personality, revealing the richness, tastes and aromas that are typical of the earth that have always characterized their production and identity. Tedeschi has always respected the environment and is certified sustainable according to the standards of Biodiversity Friend and Equalitas.

Like the 2019 Tedeschi Capitel Nicalò Valpolicella Superiore that I enjoyed a couple of years ago, this vintage continues to be a blend of 35% Corvina, 35% Corvinone, 20% Rondinella, and 10% Rossignola / Oseleta / Negrara / Dindarella. The grapes were grown in the Moraine Hills, where the soils are moraine clay and limestone of moraine origin, in the heart of Valpolicella and vinified in the Veronese tradition of drying the grapes. By placing the grapes in crates for about one month, the grapes undergo partial dehydration, losing about 8-10% of their weight. This natural process results in water loss while enriching the sugar content of the grapes, their dry extract, and the colour of
the wine.

After harvesting the grapes, they were dried for one month and then underwent maceration and both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged in Slavonian oak barrels for 12 to 18 months, and underwent further ageing for 6 months in bottle. The wine is named after their ancestor, Niccolò, and is crafted to be pleasing for all gastronomic delights. From a good vintage that is better than the 2019 vintage, let's see how this 2020 Valpolicella Superiore is tasting tonight...

Tedeschi Capitel Nicalò Valpolicella Superiore 2020 (90 pts)

Tasting Note:

TEDESCHI CAPITEL NICALÒ VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE 2020 - Sustainable, DOC, Veneto, Italy (#984997) (XD) - $19.95
Blend of 35% Corvina, 35% Corvinone, 20% Rondinella, and 10% Rossignola / Oseleta / Negrara / Dindarella. The clean, fresh, and fragrant nose offers an attractive mix of savoury earth, leafy herbs, black and dark red cherry, and fine spice aromas, plus some dried fruit, and red plum nuances adding further complexity. It's medium-full bodied on the dry palate with fresh, juicy, and tangy lemony acidity lifting the dark cherry fruited, savoury earth, fine spices, cedary oak, and mocha flavours. Supple, dusty textured tannins are smooth and refined. Tangy and dry with dark berry, earth, and wood spice notes lingering on the long, juicy, and well-balanced finish. Enjoyable now and over the next 4-5 years. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

With a fairly large portfolio, some wines by Tedeschi are available at the LCBO, while the entire range can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

Alois Lageder Terra Alpina Pinot Grigio 2022 (Alto Adige) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is the latest vintage of a lovely, organic Pinot Grigio from northern Italy. A perennial favourite of mine, this latest vintage arrived at the LCBO last month as part of the feature on "Summer Sippers" in the June 24th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and is readily available to buy now.

Terra Alpina wines are produced by Alois Lageder Winery, an historic family winery that was founded in 1823 and is located in Alto Adige in northern Italy. The long and rich history of the Lageder family and wine began in 1823 when the young craftsman Johann Lageder set himself up as a wine merchant in Bolzano. Beginning in 1934, his successors purchased vineyards to produce their own wines and, today, Alois Lageder is in the hands of the sixth generation of the family.

The project of Terra Alpina was initiated by the Lageder family as part of their initiative to collaborate with growers and neighbouring communities to produce high-quality wines that reflect their unique origin - the Dolomites - a mountain range located in northeastern Italy. The foothills of the Dolomite range offer both a cool Alpine and warm Mediterranean influence that allows the region to craft fresh, precise, and expressive wines which are also influenced by the prevalent Dolomitic limestone in the soil. With the Lageder family's centuries of experience and holistic understanding of nature, they are able to select the best terroirs and the optimal exploitation of the special climatic, geological, and topographic conditions in the area to produce exceptional wines.

Organic and biodynamic viticulture is top of mind at Alois Lageder as all of their own vineyards are farmed according to biodynamic principles. The Lageder family works with approximately 80 contract grape growers and share their knowledge and experience with partners from other regions, encouraging, motivating, and supporting them to convert to organic or biodynamic farming. Together with their partners, the Lageder family works in a way that responds to nature with great care, curiosity, and respect.

The grapes for this Pinot Grigio were grown in selected areas in the Dolomiti area at an altitude between 220 to 350 metres above sea level. These vineyards are planted on mostly Dolomitic limestone and volcanic porphyry soils, and experience a fairly cool meso-climate with great variations between day and night temperatures. The vines range between 14 and 34 years old. It was fermented using selected yeasts in stainless steel tanks, followed by maturation on fine lees for at least four months.

The 2022 growing season in Alto Adige yielded extraordinary whites due to the hot summer. The region experienced record-high temperatures as early as May, causing fast and early blossoming, including at higher altitudes. The hot and dry weather conditions continued into June, July, and August, leading to an early harvest. The white varieties did surprisingly well, turning out unusually powerful, but still fresh and fruity. It is expected that the classic characteristics of Alto Adige white wines will be preserved, even in such an exceptional year. Let's see how this 2022 Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige is tasting tonight...

Alois Lageder Terra Alpina Pinot Grigio 2022 (91 pts)

Tasting Note:

ALOIS LAGEDER TERRA ALPINA PINOT GRIGIO 2022 - IGT Vigneti delle Dolomiti, Alto Adige, Italy (#681429) (XD) - $20.95
Screw cap enclosure. This organic Pinot Grigio has a bright, highly aromatic nose that is fresh, clean, and crisp with lovely ripe lemon citrus, white peach, and honeysuckle aromas accented with stony minerals and touches of herbal and white spice notes. It's medium-full bodied and quite concentrated on the dry, ripe palate with delicious white peach, lemon, citrus, grapefruit, white pepper spice, and leesy mineral flavours. It has crisp, juicy acidity, and exceptionally long on the juicy, balanced, lemon, white peach, and leesy mineral flavoured finish. Highly recommended buy from a great vintage! Score: 91 pts

Many other lovely wines by Alois Lageder can be ordered through their Agent - Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits.

Rocca delle Macìe Famiglia Zingarelli Riserva Chianti Classico 2019 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

After enjoying the delicious 2017 Rocca delle Macìe Famiglia Zingarelli Riserva Chianti Classico nearly three years ago, tonight's red wine review is the latest edition (and from a very good vintage!) to arrive recently at the LCBO as part of last month's June 24 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Rocca delle Macìe, a family-owned winery that was established in 1973 by Italian film producer Italo Zingarelli to fulfill a lifelong dream. Italo Zingarelli acquired the 85 hectare "Le Macìe" estate, of which only 2 hectares were planted to vine, and quickly grew the estate into one of the most popular names in Italian winemaking. Rocca della Macìe is located in the heart of Tuscany, near the town of Castellina in Chianti, with the estate having grown to an expansive area of approximately 600 hectares, with approximately 200 hectares dedicated to vineyards. The vineyards are situated at various altitudes, allowing for the cultivation of various grape varieties, but mainly Sangiovese, that thrive in the region's diverse micro-climates and terroirs.

Today, Rocca della Macìe is run by Italo's son, Sergio, and has become one of the most prominent wine producers in the Chianti region by creating wines that not only respect the terroir, but also through a deep commitment to improving wine quality through innovation while remaining rooted in tradition. The wines are crafted to reflect the unique characteristics of the terroir, while showcasing the aromas and flavours of the Tuscan countryside. The winery also follows sustainable agricultural practices and places a strong emphasis on preserving the natural balance of the environment.

Like the previous vintage, this edition is also composed of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Merlot. Bearing the Zingarelli family name, this red wine is the flagship wine of the zone and represents the greatest expression of the zone's particular features while highlighting the strong link that the family has to the area of Chianti Classico. It is proudly crafted using the best grapes from the four estates of Rocca delle Macìe in the area of Castellina in Chianti, representing the synthesis of four distinctive terroirs. The grapes were carefully selected and vinified according to traditional Chianti Classico methods. It was aged in French oak barrels for two years, and further refined in bottle for at least three months.

Although it is somewhat difficult to generalize a growing season in Chianti Classico, the 2019 vintage was, by many accounts, a very good-to-excellent vintage. The growing season was fairly even throughout, as it was quite dry with no humidity. The grape quantity and quality is very high, with many producers enjoying a very late harvest that is typically preferred for Sangiovese. The resulting wines this year tend to have well-balanced acidity and tannins, as well as a nicely balanced texture and excellent aromas. Let's see how this 2019 Riserva Chianti Classico is tasting tonight...

Rocca delle Macìe Famiglia Zingarelli Riserva Chianti Classico 2019 (90+ pts)

Tasting Note:

ROCCA DELLE MACÌE FAMIGLIA ZINGARELLI RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2019 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#930966) (XD) - $25.95
Blend of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Merlot. The rich, complex, medium-high intensity nose has perfumed and spicy aromas layered over dark berry, cherry, blackberry, and forest floor with hints of plum, dried herb, dried cherry, and floral adding complexity. It's medium-full bodied and slightly chewy on the palate with elegant, gently grippy tannins and juicy, well-balanced acidity. Lovely dark red cherry, clove, forest floor, and cedary wood spice flavours, plus some tangy notes on the mid-palate. Nicely balanced throughout with savoury forest floor and cocoa notes, plus a touch of mineral lingering on the long, succulent finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 4-5 years. Score: 90+ pts

Many other lovely wines by Rocca delle Macìe are available at the LCBO, as well as through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico 2019 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

After enjoying this lovely red wine as part of the Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Trio gift pack last fall, this Chianti Classico Annata arrives on its own next weekend in the May 27 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and is tonight's red wine review.

Castelli del Grevepesa is a modern, co-operative winery that was established in 1965 by visionary Sir Armando Nunzi and an initial group of 17 winegrowers from the different areas of Florentine Chianti Classico. They came together because the 60's were difficult years in the Chianti winegrowing region. Together, they wanted to safeguard the land and maintain age-old traditions of Tuscan winegrowing with the long-established know-how that farmers still pass on from one generation to the next. They also had a shared ambition to introduce innovative production methods and techniques, which included careful grape selection and a rigorously controlled vinification process, to produce high quality wines at affordable prices in compliance with the strict regulations of the law and the consortium that was previously called Consorzio Gallo Nero, and now Consorzio del Chianti Classico.

Today, Castelli del Grevepesa has grown to become the largest Chianti Classico family with over 120 associate winegrowers that are passionate and hard working. The logo of Castelli del Grevepesa is an iris flower that grows naturally between Val di Greve and Val di Pesa. The iris is a perennial flower that resists both the sweltering heat of summer and the winter frost - it is a symbol of the solidity of Castelli del Grevepesa and its unbreakable bond with Florentine culture and traditions. Castelli del Grevepesa's mission is to be guardians of hundreds of years of traditions as their ancestors taught them that wine comes, first and foremost, from the vineyard. Thus, they are committed to promoting the land and safeguarding the traditions of ancient craftsmanship. As one of the first co-operative wineries in Italy, one of their founding values is that fine quality wine must be for everyone and is a source of great pride and satisfaction.

As I enjoyed the 2018 Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico back in November, this vintage is also crafted with 100% Sangiovese. Certified sustainable, the grapes were hand-harvested with individual bunch selection and then fermented at a controlled temperature with 10 days of maceration with skins. It was aged for 12 months with 85% in Slavonian oak barrels and 15% in barriques, followed by a further 3 months in bottle after blending.

Although the growing season in Chianti Classico can be hard to generalize since it is a fairly large region, the 2019 summer growing season can be defined as a real classic. Let's see how this 2019 Chianti Classico is tasting tonight...

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico 2019 (89 pts)

Tasting Note:

CASTELLI DEL GREVEPESA CLEMENTE VII CHIANTI CLASSICO 2019 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#421388) (XD) - $22.95
100% Sangiovese. The medium-high intensity nose offers an attractive mix of red cherry, savoury wet earth, red currant, raspberry, dried herbs, and sweet oak spice aromas. On the dry, medium to medium-full bodied it has red fruited, red cherry and red plum flavours, plus savoury earth, oak spice, and dried herbal notes which are supported fresh, well-balanced acidity and ripe, refined, dusty textured, and lightly grippy tannins. Spicy mid-palate. Cherry and savoury earth notes are joined by hints of orange and mineral on the finish, with very good length. Enjoy this recommended buy to the end of the decade. Score: 89 pts

One other wine by Castelli del Grevepesa is available at the LCBO, while other lovely wines from their portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

Blu Giovello Prosecco (Italy) - Wine Review

For Mother's Day, I uncorked this delicious Prosecco sparkling wine from Italy that is widely available at the LCBO and currently on promotion - offering 30 bonus Aeroplan points.

Tasting Note:

BLU GIOVELLO PROSECCO - DOC, Italy (#85316) (D) - $18
This extra dry spumante is crafted with 100% Glera that was grown on Morainic soils 400 metres above the level. The medium intensity nose offers pleasing aromas of white floral and lemon citrus which are echoed on the off-dry palate and joined by grapefruit and orange citrus flavours. It has fresh acidity and crisp mousse that livens the flavourful palate. Some leesy mineral notes arrive on the back palate and linger through to the finish, with very good length. Recommended buy. Score: 88 pts

Nativ Bicento Irpinia Campi Taurasini 2018 (Campania) - Wine Review

After enjoying the excellent 2013 Nativ Bicento over four years ago, tonight's red wine review is the latest edition of this terrific old vine wine from Campania that arrived at the LCBO today in the May 13 Online & Flagship Exclusives New Release Collection.

It is produced by Vini Nativ, a winery founded in 2008 on the slopes of the immaculate hills of Taurasi, in the heart of Irpinia, within the commune of Paternopoli, in the Province of Avellino, and region of Campania in southern Italy. It was formed by Dr. Mario Ercolino, an internationally renowned Oenologist, and Dr. Roberta Pirone, a Specialist in Food Science. Together, they aim to produce wines of excellence resulting from the important and deep experiences in their fields. They also aim to produce wines typical of the territory, in particular Fiano di Avellino, Greco di Tufo, Falanghina, Aglianico, and (like tonight's wine) Aglianico of Taurasi.

The vines for their wines are grown across 15 hectares of precious vineyards spread out between Paternopoli and Taurasi, on soils that are well-known for their fertility thanks to their volcanic origins. The name "Nativ" represents the origin of the Viticulture of Irpina, through an autochthonous production of grapes which outlines the concept of "original of the place”, and carried out through the production of wines coming from grapes typical of the territory. Each Nativ wine has a unique and unequivocal character, as it is produced through innovative winemaking methods, while respecting tradition, and always keeping the organoleptic structure of the grape unaltered. Nativ has several ranges of wines in their portfolio, with this red wine part of their top Cru range. The engine that drives the company is the love and respect for the terroir and vine, and it is the realization of a profession, way of living, and doing business.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Aglianico of Taurasi. It gets its name "Bicento", which translates literally to "twice 100", or two-hundred, because the grapes were grown on 200-year-old ungrafted vines. The vines are planted on volcanic soils situated in the hills of Taurasi, 500 metres above sea level. After hand-harvesting the grapes at the end of October, the grapes were transported to the winery and lightly pressed and macerated in steel silos. After fermentation, the wine was aged in new 225 hectolitre French oak barrels for 12 to 18 months.

The growing season during the 2018 vintage was quite problematic in Campania due to a cold winter, plentiful rain, and some hail in spring, with late summer heat helping speed up ripening. The harvest was also very small in size. Let's see how this Aglianico of Taurisini from Campania is tasting tonight...

Nativ Bicento Irpinia Campi Taurasini 2018 (93+ pts)

Tasting Note:

NATIV BICENTO IRPINIA CAMPI TAURASINI 2018 - DOC, Campania, Italy (#575035) (D) - $44.95
100% Aglianico from 200 year-old vines, this has a clean, fragrant, and open nose that is highly aromatic with spicy notes layered over ripe dark berries, plum, and milk chocolate aromas. It's full-bodied, dense, and well-structured with ripe dark berries, black cherry, peppery spice, with savoury touches of earth, cedary oak flavours. There's a kiss of sweetness due to the ripe fruit flavours, but it comes off as dry due to the high, structured acidity. It has well-structured, mildly grippy tannins, while cedary oak, mocha chocolate, earth, and some minerality notes linger on the long, dry finish, with excellent length. Will provide pleasure now and over the next 10 years. Highly recommended buy! Score: 93+ pts

Other fine wines by Vini Nativ can be ordered through their Agent - Don Ackerman's Wines & Spirits.

Giacomo Mori Chianti 2018 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is this lovely Chianti from the classic European wine region of Tuscany that is part of the theme in this weekend's April 29 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and should be widely available across Ontario by this Saturday, if not a day or two earlier.

It is crafted by Giacomo Mori, a wine producer located in the village of Palazzone, in the southeast corner of Tuscany, east of San Casciano dei Bagni, just outside of the Chianti Classico zone. The story of Giacomo Mori begins at the end of the 18th century when they were in the marketing business of processed, aged, and bottled wine from the cellars of Palazzone and Chiusi. Unfortunately, these activities slowed with the onset of World War I and eventually ceased during the economic crisis of 1927. Giovanni Mori, the son of Giacomo, started winemaking activities with his sons in 1970 and sold their wines mostly in tanks and demijohns.

With a renewed focus on making quality wines, in 1995 they began planting new vineyards with careful selection of varieties, clones, and vineyard layout. Over the next 15 years, Giacomo Mori renovated their cellars in Palazzone, as well as renovated the original building. Winemaking activities were moved to steel containers and ageing in oak barrels, as well as inside the "barriques", old containers dug in the tuff of which the ancient grottoes (caves) are made. A constant temperature of 12°C is maintained in the area set aside for ageing.

Today, this small estate has 10 hectares of land with south-southeast exposure to the sun. The planting density is 4500-5000 vines/hectare, and the vines are trained using the "cordone speronato" (pruned-spur cordon-trained) system. The main variety planted is Sangiovese, which makes up 75% of their total production. 12% of their production is devoted to Merlot, while the remainder is a mix of international and indigenous red and white grape varieties. All of the grapes are harvested manually and beginning with the 2019 vintage, all of their wines are certified organic. Emiliano Falsini is the consultant oenologist and works closely with Giacomo Mori.

I last enjoyed the 2015 Giacomo Mori Chianti about four years ago and like previous vintages, this red wine from Chianti continues to be a blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino/Canaiolo. It was fermented at controlled temperatures in 40-60 hectolitre stainless steel containers, followed by ageing for 10 to 12 months in 20 hectolitre Slavonian and Allier oak barrels, as well of 5 hectolitre tonneaux and third-use barriques. From the excellent 2018 vintage across Tuscany, let's see how this 2018 Chianti is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

GIACOMO MORI CHIANTI 2018 - Palazzone, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#68858) (XD) - $23.95
Blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino/Canaiolo. The intensely fragrant and perfumed nose offers lovely aromas of dark red cherries, baking spices, clove, and savoury earth with hints of dried herbs. It's medium+ bodied on the palate, with impressive weight and delicious tangy red and black cherry, spice, clove, rose floral, and savoury earth flavours. Quite elegant, refined, and nicely balanced throughout with fresh acidity and supple, slightly chalky tannins. Red cherry notes are joined by smoky minerals plus touches of orange and rose floral on the long, fresh finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely wines by Giacomo Mori can be ordered through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia.

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Riserva Chianti Classico 2018 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

After enjoying this lovely red wine that was included in the Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Trio wooden gift box last October, tonight's red wine review is this lovely Riserva Chianti Classico arrives solo at the LCBO as the Wine of the Month in the upcoming April 15 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Castelli del Grevepesa, a co-operative winery that was established in 1965 by visionary Sir Armando Nunzi and an initial group of 17 winegrowers. The project came about because the 1960s were difficult years in the winegrowing region of Chianti. To help the region weather the economic and technical crisis, Sir Gualtiero Armando Nunzi managed to bring together winegrowers from the different areas of Florentine Chianti Classico. Together, they had a shared intention to safeguard the land, and maintain the age-old traditions of Tuscan winegrowing with the long-established know-how that farmers still pass along today from one generation to the next.

Today, the modern Castelli del Grevepesa is the largest Chianti Classico family with over 120 associate winegrowers. With passion and hard work, they produce fine quality wines that are accessible to everyone, and recognised and valued across the world. Most of the winegrowers are situated in the areas of Greve in Chianti, San Casciano Val di Pesa, Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, and Barberino Val d’Elsa and some of the most famous Chianti Classico regions such as Panzano, Lamole, Campoli, and Bibbione. The iris flower is the symbol the company, a perennial flower that represents the solidity of Castelli del Grevepesa and its unbreakable bond with Florentine culture and traditions.

While Castelli del Grevepesa has several ranges of wines, this particular red wine is from their Clemente VII range that celebrates a member of the famous Florentine Medici family - Giulio de' Medici. He became Pope Clemente VII in 1523 and lived in Campoli, within the Chianti Classico area where Castelli del Grevepesa produces their wines today.

This Riserva Chianti Classico is crafted with 100% Sangiovese that was grown at 200 metres above sea level with west-southwest exposure to the sun. The grapes were hand harvested with individual bunch selection and fermented at a controlled temperature of 28°C, with 15 days of maceration with skins. Half of the wine was aged Slavonian oak barrels for 24 months, while the other half was aged in barriques for 12 months. It was then blended and further refined in bottle for at least 3 months. Let's see how this Riserva Chianti Classico made with Sangiovese is tasting tonight...

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Riserva Chianti Classico 2018 (90 pts)

Tasting Note:

CASTELLI DEL GREVEPESA CLEMENTE VII RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2018 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#643205) (XD) - $24.95
100% Sangiovese. The fragrant, medium-high intensity nose is sweetly red fruited and sweet vanillin oak spiced, with aromas of lightly desiccated red cherry, rose floral, clove, cinnamon spice, vanilla, and earthy undertones adding interest. It's medium-full bodied on the palate with juicy, well-balanced acidity and smooth, fine-grained tannins that have some pleasant grip. It has delicious red cherry, clove, savoury wet earth, forest floor flavours in a dry flavour profile. Savoury earthy and vanillin with touches of red cherry, clove, and rose floral notes linger on the long, well-balanced finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

This label's Annata Chianti Classico is available at the LCBO, while other lovely wines by Castelli del Grevepesa are available through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

Lungarotti Rubesco Rosso di Torgiano 2019 (Umbria) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a delicious, mainly Sangiovese-based red wine from the lesser-known region of Umbria. It was featured on the cover of the recent March 4 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and is widely available across Ontario now.

It is produced by Cantine Giorgio Lungarotti, a family-owned winery that was founded in the 1960's in Torgiano, the heart of Umbria in central Italy. The pioneering founder was Giorgio Lungarotti and the family is a symbol of Umbrian oenological excellence within the region and Italy. He transformed the agricultural firm into a winemaking estate, focusing on traditional grape varieties, and implementing modern vine training systems and technology in the cellars.

Today, Lungarotti is led by Maria Grazia, wife of the late Giorgio, and their two daughters - Chiara and Teresa. The third generation of the family has also joined the business, which spans 250 hectares of vineyards across their two estates, one each in Torgiano and Montefalco. Together, they are focused on quality wine production and sustainability.

The name of this wine, Rubesco, is a trademark of Lungarotti and derives from the Latin verb "rubescere", which means "to blush" (with joy). On the label of this wine is an image that recalls the panel depicting the harvest from the Fontana Maggiore in Perugia, a fountain that was built in approximately 1277 and is one of Italy's most beautiful Medieval fountains. It was the Rubesco wine in 1962 that helped Lungarotti establish the Torgiano winegrowing region. The success of this wine fueled Lungarotti's passion for the region's grapes and helped the region achieve Torgiano DOC status in 1968, Umbria's first DOC. The terroir in Torgiano is well-suited to cultivating expressive, high-quality Sangiovese, a grape that mirrors its terrain and climate very well.

I enjoyed the previous vintage of this wine, the 2018 Lungarotti Rubesco Sangiovese/Colorino, back in December 2021, and while both the 2018 and 2019 are composed of the same grape varieties, this vintage has slightly more Sangiovese (95%) with 5% Colorino completing the blend. The grapes were grown on medium mix soils with a looser structure on the higher hillsides, and soils with medium depth, good structure, and a limestone sub-soil. The grapes were harvested between the end of September and early October and fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature with 15 days of skin contact. It was refined for one year in casks, and after a light filtration it was further refined by spending one year in bottle. Let's see how this 2019 Rosso di Torgiano is tasting tonight...

Lungarotti Rubesco Rosso di Torgiano 2019 (88+ pts)

Tasting Note:

LUNGAROTTI RUBESCO ROSSO DI TORGIANO 2019 - DOC, Umbria, Italy (#368548) (XD) - $21.95
This blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino has a ripe, medium-high intensity nose offering attractive, lightly dried red cherry and floral aromas, plus clove, spices, and raspberry, with savoury earth undertones. It's mid-weighted on the very ripe palate with delicious dark red cherry, clove, spices, raspberry, and earthy replays on the flavour profile. It has refreshing acidity and supple, lightly textured tannins. Slightly tangy on the mid-palate with savoury mineral notes lingering on the long, juicy, and succulent finish. Enjoy this recommended buy over the couple of years. Score: 88+ pts

Other lovely wines by Cantine Lungarotti are available at the LCBO and through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

Fasoli Gino San Raffaele Pinot Grigio 2021 (delle Venezie) - Wine Review

After enjoying the 2020 Fasoli Gino San Raffaele Pinot Grigio last year, tonight's white wine review is the latest vintage of this lovely white wine from northeastern Italy which arrived at the LCBO over the weekend as part of the March 4 LCBO VINTAGES Release. This lovely, organic, and vegan-friendly white wine is also sporting a new, fresh, and modern label for this vintage.

It is produced by Fasoli Gino, a winemaking family of four generations with deep roots in Verona, northern Italy. Their story of passion and dedication for wine begins in 1925 with Amadio Fasoli dedicated himself to viticulture in the valley of Illasi, the green expanse to the east of Verona. Amadio personally delivered the wines he made to the best eateries of the area by horse and cart.

Gino Fasoli, son of Amadio and second generation of the family, inherited the same passion for his father's vineyards and increased the size of the vineyards, thereby increasing wine production. Gino gave his name to the winery and was driven to make his wines known across the entire region of Verona. In 1979, Gino Fasoli developed an allergy to to some of the chemicals used in the vineyards and soon thereafter the winery was passed on to the third generation who made the brave and difficult decision at the time to go organic.

By 1986, the third generation of the Fasoli family, brothers Amadio and Natalino, had converted all of their vineyards to organic, and in 2003 they constructed a new winery. In 2006, they also introduced biodynamic practices. At the turn of the century, Matteo Fasoli became the 4th generation of the family to join the family's winemaking business.

Today, the Fasoli family uses their know-how gathered over 4 generations while enthusiastically embracing modern agricultural techniques. The Fasoli brothers are farmers at heart and the love for the land in which they live can be felt through their enthusiasm and care for its fruits. They only produce wines that they love drinking. This journey from vine to glass is carried out with total respect for the culture and values of the terroir. The Fasoli family is constantly striving for excellence while developing and implementing production techniques that have the least environmental impact possible. Fasoli Gino is one of Italy's most long-standing and respected organic producers.

Fasoli Gino San Raffaele Pinot Grigio 2021 (89 pts)

Tasting Note:

FASOLI GINO SAN RAFFAELE PINOT GRIGIO 2021 - Vegan, DOC delle Venezie, Italy (#204768) (XD) - $17.95
Screw cap. This organic and vegan-friendly white wine has fresh, medium-high intensity aromas which are ripe and complex with honeysuckle, melon, lemon citrus, and pear aromas with a lessy mineral underpinning. On the dry, light-to-mid-weighted palate it has crisp, lively, and refreshing acidity that lifts the citrusy, apple, pear, melon, and honeysuckle flavours. Succulent and juicy on the lightly spicy mid-palate, while the spicy notes are joined by minerals on the crisp finish, with very good length. Highly recommended buy! Grab two and enjoy one now while holding the other for a year or so for a more evolved expression. Score: 89 pts

Other delicious wines by Fasoli Gino can be ordered through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia.

Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2018 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is an excellent Sangiovese based red wine from the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG in Tuscany (not to be confused with Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, a red wine made from the Montepulciano grape in Abruzzo). This red wine arrived at the LCBO as part of the recent February 18 LCBO VINTAGES Release and is readily available across the province.

It is produced by Poliziano, a family winery that was born in 1961 from the love for their beautiful with which they work in harmony to vibrant and representative wines with professionalism and the constant search for the most advanced viticultural and oenological techniques.

The story of Poliziano begins when Dino Carletti purchased his first parcel of 22 hectares near Montepulciano. He named the winery "Poliziano" because in Italian a native of Montepulciano is called a "Poliziano", and one of the most well-known Polizianos in the history of the region is the humanist poet Angelo Ambrogini (1454-1494) who had the nickname "Poliziano". As a tribute to Angelo, he is represented in the company's logo.

In the late 1970s, Federico Carletti, son of Dino, took over management of the property after he completed his studies in agriculture and immediately made his mark by choosing to work exclusively with their own estate grapes. Today, the estate has over 170 hectares of vineyards and the focus is on quality viticulture that is also innovative, yet respectful of the environment and tradition. Federico's pursuit of quality and excellence was present in the vineyards and cellar, while continuously looking to improve. He studied Sangiovese (aka Prugnolo Gentile) in order to find its best expression in Montepulciano, while also planting international varieties in the 1990s. For almost twenty years, Federico has focused on reaching the highest expression of this territory in his wines, with a firm belief in the potentiality, while also moving towards a more natural and sustainable approach.

Today, the family's passion for wine continues with the 3rd generation. Francesco and Maria Stella joined the family business in 2019 and 2021, respectively, as essential advisors to Federico and are ready to face both the current and future challenges.

This Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is crafted with 90-95% Sangiovese, a grape known locally by its historic name Prugnolo Gentile, and the remainder with other permitted varieties. At Poliziano, they dedicate the utmost care to growing Prugnolo Gentile, the grape that characterizes the Montepulciano area, because it expresses the full potential of the territory with its rich wine history. First produced in 1968, the grapes for this wine come from a 47 hectare vineyard situated between 300 to 400 metres above sea level on silty-clay soils with a medium presence of stones. The grapes were manually harvested and sorted by an optical sorting machine. It was macerated and fermented in stainless steel vats, followed by ageing for 14-16 months in wood barrels, with two-thirds aged in French oak barriques and tonneaux, and one-third in vats.

From an excellent 2018 vintage in Tuscany, let's see how this 2018 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is tasting tonight...

Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2018 (92+ pts)

Tasting Note:

POLIZIANO VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2018 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#988055) (XD) - $34.95
Composed of 90-95% Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile), this has a beautifully elegant and highly aromatic nose of red cherry, sweet spices, baking spice, clove, wet earth, and hints of Mediterranean herb aromas laying underneath. It's medium-full bodied on the ripe, structured palate with lovely red cherry, clove, earth replays, plus sandalwood notes on the flavour profile. It is impeccably balanced with juicy, succulent acidity and well-integrated, elegantly structured, and grainy textured tannins. Savoury, earthy, chestnut, and sandalwood notes with touches of cherry lingering on the long, highly pleasurable finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 10 years, maybe a bit more. Score: 92+ pts

Minimal quantities of one other wine by Poliziano is available at the LCBO, while the rest of the portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

March 4, 2023 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: Hidden Italy

LCBO Wine Picks: March 4, 2023 VINTAGES Release

Here are my top wine picks from the March 4, 2023 LCBO VINTAGES Release which is titled "Hidden Treasure" and looks at wines from Italy's lesser-known regions. Overall, this is a smaller-than-normal release with just 77 wines includes in the release. It's also a bit surprising to see only twelve wines over $30 in this release. Nevertheless, all of the wines in this New Release Collection should be available at LCBO outlets across Ontario by this Saturday.

As this release is a small one, the number of wines featured in the theme on Hidden Treasures from Italy's lesser-known wines regions is also not many, with just eight wines featured and two included among my top wine recommendations. The lesser-known Italian wine regions listed in the magazine are Friuli, Lake Garda, Langhe, Umbria, Taurasi, and Sicily. The recommended buys are a Etna Rosso from Sicily which is a blend of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, while the wine from Umbria is composed of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino.

Red wine picks from the release begins with the outstanding Super Tuscan that is a 50/50 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The only other blend among my top wine picks is the Cabernet/Merlot from Niagara that is composed of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc. Some of the single varietal wines include a pair of high altitude Malbec wines from Argentina, as well as a pair of Southern Hemisphere Cabernet Sauvignon wines - one from Chile and the other from Australia. There are also a couple of Syrah/Shiraz wines, with the Syrah coming from Chile and the Shiraz coming from Australia.

Tenuta San Guido Guidalberto 2020 (93 pts)

Manos Negras Stone Soil Malbec 2019 (89 pts)

Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (90 pts)

Creekside Red Tractor Cabernet/Merlot 2020 (88+ pts)

All of my white wine picks are single varietal wines, with Sauvignon Blanc leading the way with three examples from New Zealand and one from South Africa. If you enjoy Sauv Blanc, get all four to compare and contrast. There is also a fine Grüner Veltliner from Austria, as well as an organic Pinot Grigio from Italy. Lastly, if you like some sweetness in your wine, try the off-dry Riesling from Niagara.

Villa Maria Wairau Valley Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Duck Hunter Sauvignon Blanc 2021 (90 pts)

Among my sparkling wine picks, the Rose Prosecco is a blend of 90% Glera and 10% Pinot Nero, while the vintage Champagne is crafted with 100% Chardonnay.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release! Cincin!