Tapiz Alta Collection San Pablo Vineyard Malbec 2023 (Argentina) - Wine Review

Happy start to the long weekend! Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Malbec from Argentina that arrived at the LCBO in last weekend's May 9 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Fincas Patagónicas, one of Argentina's most prominent wine producers. It was founded in 2003 by Patricia Ortiz with the goal of crafting exceptional wines from Argentina's most distinctive terroirs. At Fincas Patagónicas, the winemaking philosophy combines traditional methods with innovative techniques to create exceptional wines from high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza to the Atlantic coast of Patagonia that truly express each area's unique terroir.

Fincas Patagónicas has several winery projects across Argentina, including Zolo and Wapisa, but Tapiz, where this wine is from, was their first. The state-of-the-art Tapiz winery is located in the high-altitude San Pablo region, within the Tunuyán department, of the Uco Valley, and is surrounded by estate vineyards. Under the guidance of Patricia, Tapiz is a pioneer in the region and helped develop the San Pablo Geographical Indication (GI).

Tapiz wines are crafted by the celebrated winemaking team of Fabian Valenzuela and famed Bordeaux winemaker Jean-Claude Berrouet (winemaker of Petrus for 44 vintages), and are a beautiful tapestry (tapiz) of terroir and innovation. The wines of Tapiz combine sustainable winemaking traditions with modern innovation, along with a strong commitment to excellence which is reflected in their environmentally conscious approach and dedication to producing wines that truly express their unique terroir in San Pablo. The San Pablo GI benefits from the extremes of altitude, temperature, and soil heterogeneity, which allows the winemaking team to create full-bodied and concentrated wines that are elegant and balanced. Through her wineries, Patricia is dedicated to giving back to the environment through sustainable practices, while also encouraging responsible practices among their staff, suppliers, and customers.

This red wine is crafted using 100% Malbec that was grown at the San Pablo Estate Vineyard within the Uco Valley. The vineyard is situated at a high altitude of 1,350 metres (4,430 feet) above sea level, which is one of the highest vineyards in Mendoza. The vines average 14 years old and are planted on alluvial soils which have a diverse sandy loam texture, gravel, and significant deposits of calcareous material. The grapes were sustainably farmed and hand-harvested, and vinified by first undergoing a cold pre-maceration for 5 days at 8ºC. It underwent alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks for approximately 15 days at 28ºC, as well as 100% malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged for 10 months in French (85%) and American (15%) oak barrels.

Like the year prior, the 2023 vintage in Argentina was another roller-coaster vintage as recent years influenced by La Niña left the country in a state of drought, including the winter months which were unnaturally dry but with some polar influences. Spring frosts attacked nascent buds during budbreak, which massively cut yields in some parts of Mendoza. After the bouts of frost, the season settled into warm days, while the summer was the hottest and driest in years. The grapes ripened quickly, and those vineyards at altitude benefitted from diurnal temperature variation. The end result was an early harvest with concentrated fruit, fresh acidity, and modest alcohol levels. From a good vintage that produced age-worthy wines with great minerality and texture, let's see how this 2023 Malbec from Argentina is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

TAPIZ ALTA COLLECTION SAN PABLO VINEYARD MALBEC 2023 - Sustainable, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (#450155) (XD) - $20.95
This high altitude Malbec has lovely, open aromatics of medium-high intensity offering notes of ripe, crushed dark berry and blackberry aromas nuanced with hints of violet, mineral, savoury oak, earth, dried herb, and peppery spice. On the dry, medium+ bodied palate it has delicious ripe dark berry, blackberry, violet, dried herb, savoury earth, oak spice, and peppery replays joined by mineral accents on the flavour profile. It has crisp and fresh acidity, alongside supple, fine-grained, and gently chalky textured tannins. Clean and well-balanced throughout with dark berries, blackberry, savoury oak, earth, dried herb, and mineral notes on the long, gently tight finish. Enjoyable now, but should be even better in a couple of years, and is a highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Other lovely wines by Fincas Patagónicas can be found at the LCBO, or ordered through their Agent - DB Wine & Spirits.

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El Enemigo El Mirador Single Vineyard Bonarda 2022 (Argentina) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is this lovely single vineyard Bonarda that arrived at the LCBO a couple of weeks ago in the April 25th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by El Enemigo Wines, a project co-founded in 2008 by two of Argentina's most notable wine figures - Adrianna Catena, the youngest daughter of Nicolás Catena, and winemaker Alejandro Vigil.

Since childhood, Adrianna has lived and breathed wine, and today she blends her experience in Academia in History with her passion for viticulture and winemaking. Alejandro Vigil was the "enfant terrible" of his family as he left school at the age of 14 to join a wine co-operative. However, he did keep up with his studying at night so as to not upset his mother. Alejandro graduated at the top of his class agricultural engineering, and at the age of 27 he became the head of soils division for the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) in Argentina. Since 2002, Alejandro has been the Chief Winemaker at Catena Zapata.

El Enemigo means "The Enemy", and reflects the personal philosophy of its founders, which is that the biggest enemy is oneself. The philosophy behind El Enemigo is to constantly strive to push boundaries and challenge personal limits. In this same spirit, the wines of El Enemigo emphasize Argentine terroir while focusing on old world winemaking techniques to create new world wines that are creative and energetic. Each wine is also crafted to be in balance between old world elegance and new world, fruit-driven intensity. El Enemigo Wines are produced in the southern foothills of Maipu, Mendoza, using grapes from a number of vineyards across the region. As a soil expert with a Master's Degree in both winemaking and irrigation management, the work of Alejandro Vigil has led to important developments in both vineyard management and winemaking in Argentina.

I've had the pleasure of tasting previous vintages of this wine, including most recently writing about the 2020 El Enemigo El Mirador Single Vineyard Bonarda a couple of years ago. Like previous vintages, this red wine is crafted using 100% Bonarda that was grown in a single vineyard within the El Mirador district of Rivadavia, in the central-north part of the province of Mendoza. The vineyard is situated at 650 metres (2,132 feet) above sea level and is planted on sand and deep clay soil. To vinify this wine, it underwent a wild yeast fermentation at a fairly warm temperature of 28C (82F) for 15 days, followed by a 15-day infusion with minimal movement to gently extract colour, aromas, and flavours. The wine was aged for 12 months in foudre, then rested in bottle prior to release.

According to Alejandro, the 2022 vintage in Mendoza was an exceptional year from every possible qualitative standpoint. It was a roller-coaster vintage with spring frosts followed by a relatively cool and damp season, and then another frost to end spring, which cut yields. Much needed rain arrived at the end and spring and into summer, which refreshed the vines. After the rains passed and the weather cleared, there was just enough heat for red grape varieties such as Bonarda to reach phenolic ripeness in time for harvest. The end result was expressive wines with optimal acidity, concentration, and ripeness. From a vintage that Alejandro Vigil says that "this is the best year that I have lived through", let's see how this 2022 Bonarda from Rivadavia, Mendoza, is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

EL ENEMIGO EL MIRADOR SINGLE VINEYARD BONARDA 2022 - Rivadavia, Mendoza, Argentina (#15120) (XD) - $29.95
This lovely, single vineyard Bonarda has a fresh and lifted medium-high intensity nose that offers a ripe mix of red, black, and purple fruit with plummy, black cherry, blackberry, and dried herb aromas layered over earthy oak, cocoa, and spices. On the dry, medium-full bodied palate it has delicious dark fruited blackberry, plum, black cherry, dried herb, oak spice, and earthy flavours, plus mineral accents. It has fresh and succulent acidity, alongside smooth, elegant, and fine-grained tannins with good structure and a subtle chalky grip on the back palate. Plum and dark berry notes taper to oak spice and minerals on the long, dry, and savoury finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the coming 7-8 years. Score: 91+ pts

Several ultra-premium wines by El Enemigo are available in small quantities at the LCBO, while their very popular Chardonnay (and one of my personal favourites) will be arriving in VINTAGES later this month. The full range of El Enemigo Wines can also be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Bolgrad Select Chardonnay 2024 and Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2024 (Ukraine) - Wine Reviews

Tonight's wine reviews are a pair of delicious wines from Ukraine that made their debut at the LCBO in last month's April 11 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Both of these wines are produced by Bolgrad Winery, the No. 1 still-wine producing winery in Ukraine, as they produce 18% of the country's still-wine production. Bolgrad is based in the Odesa region, which is at the heart of the country's winemaking, with over 60% of Ukraine's vines rooted in this region. While the brand was only formed in 1990, the company's history goes back more than 100 years.

Bolgrad's history begins in 1900, when it was housed in the State Wine Warehouse, and vines were grown by landowners. Over time, the producer became the country's largest state-owned winery. At the end of the war in 1945, the company's official history with a decree, and it became a factory on paper. The winery has travelled a thorny path since that time, but has maintained its principles and commitment to producing high-quality wine.

Today, Bolgrad is a well-established producer of alcoholic beverages, including wine and spirits, with quality control at every stage and distribution in various countries globally. To produce their wines, they use a combination of both traditional and modern winemaking techniques.

These wines are from Bolgrad's Select Collection, which is their export-focused, premium range of wines. Selection Collection wines are varietally expressive, fruit-forward, and designed for international palates. Each of these wines are mono-varietal wines that were grown on the southwestern slopes of Yalpug, one of Ukraine's largest freshwater lakes. This area is nestled in a unique valley, where the grapes are kissed by the sunlight from both the sun in the sky and its shimmering reflection on the water's surface. The grapes were carefully selected and hand-harvested at the precise moment of optimal maturity to produce wines of balance.

Given the challenging conditions that are present in the country, the 2024 vintage in Ukraine is considered to be a success in terms of quality. There was continuous rainfall throughout winter and spring, until late May, while summer was exceptionally sunny and hot, which resulted in an earlier than usual harvest. Yields were impacted by the weather conditions, as well as the ongoing conflict, but overall, the vintage is considered to be of exceptional quality. Let's see how these 2024 vintage wines from Ukraine are tasting...

Tasting Notes:

BOLGRAD SELECT CHARDONNAY 2024 - Odesa, Ukraine (#48301) (XD) - $17.95
Delicate, medium intensity nose features white peach, apricot, and ripe lemon citrus aromas, plus hints of honeyuckle and floral. The weighty, medium-full bodied palate is dry with honeyed notes of lemon citrus, apple, pear, apricot, and honeysuckle flavours. It has clean, well-balanced acidity, along with some spicy warmth on the mid-palate. Citrus and apricot notes linger on the finish, with very good length. Score: 87+ pts

BOLGRAD SELECT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2024 - Ukraine (#48357) (XD) - $17.95
A gentle nose of red plum and currant aromas with hints of cran-cherry, cassis, and savoury oak. It's medium-full bodied and very ripe with sweet fruited flavours of currant, cassis, plum, black cherry, and oak spice. It's supported by very good, fresh acidity, alongside well-structured and gently grippy tannins. Good length on the savoury, slightly smoky finish. Score: 86 pts

While there is a Brandy by Bolgrad available at the LCBO, any other products may be ordered through their Agent - Rare Earth Wines.

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Kechris Genesis Xinomavro / Merlot 2022 (Greece) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely blend of Xinomavro and Merlot from Macedonia in Northern Greece that made its debut at the LCBO a couple of weeks ago in the April 11th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Kechris, a family winery with roots going back to 1939 when it began producing "Kechribari" retsina wines at their family restaurant of Kokoras in the old town of Thessaloniki in northern Greece. The Kechris family developed a reputation for producing high-quality retsina wines, which led to increased demand. In order to keep up with demand and grow the family business, the four Kechris brothers — Anestis, Vassilis, Dimitris, and Periklis — established the E. Kechris Bros. liquor company in Kalochori, Thessaloniki, in 1954. They produced a range of products at their modern, state-of-the-art facility including retsina, ouzo, brandy, and fruit liqueurs, and began exporting their products to other countries by 1974.

In 1984, the second generation of the family with Stelios Kechris, son of Vassilis, took over the business. Stelios is widely credited for transforming Kechris from a well-respected regional producer into one of Greece's leading wineries. One of Stelios' most important achievements was to spearhead the renaissance of premium retsina wines, which culminated in the creation of the Tear of the Pine retsina.

Today, in addition to retsina, Kechris also produces several quality wines in all three colours. Kechris' values are based on their identity, which is defined by their actions, and their actions are based on Tradition in Motion, Quality, Innovation, and Directness. The philosophy at Kechris is linked to their culture, to people, and to life itself. For Kechris, wine gives value to life's various moments by bringing us closer and helping us share thoughts and emotions.

This red wine is from Kechris' Genesis range of wines which bridge Greece's indigenous grape heritage with international varieties. There are three wines in the Genesis range, one of each colour, and this particular red wine is a blend of equal parts Xinomavro, Greece's flagship red variety, and Merlot. The grapes were grown in the small town of Goumenissa, in vineyards planted on clay loam soils. The Merlot grapes were harvested in September, while the Xinomavro was harvested from late-September to late-October. Both grapes were vinified separately. After undergoing alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wines remained in contact with their skins for 4–6 weeks, and then remained in tanks.

The growing season in 2022 in the Northern Greece region of Macedonia began with a cold winter and snowy mountain tops. Furthermore, rainfall during this season contributed to the increase of bud fertility, as well as the enrichment of the aqueous horizon with water. A colder spring, which was also drier than usual, resulted in a later, but even budbreak, while summer had mostly mild temperatures apart from a heatwave in the first half of August. There was heavy rainfall that began at the outset of September, along with almost 40 days of high daytime temperatures and cool nights. From a vintage that produced exquisite grapes, let's see how this 2022 blend of Xinomavro and Merlot from Greece is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

KECHRIS GENESIS XINOMAVRO / MERLOT 2022 - PGI Macedonia, Greece (#30613) (XD) - $22.95
This lovely, 50/50 blend of Xinomavro and Merlot has an open, medium-high intensity nose that offers an enticing medley of sun-dried tomato, dried rose floral, sweet spices, and red cherry aromas with hints of orange, red plum, savoury earth adding further complexity and interest. The dry, medium+ bodied palate has very good structure and lovely, ripe flavours of sun-dried tomato, rose floral, cherry, sweet spices, and savoury earth. It's nicely balanced throughout with juicy acidity and well-structured, gritty, and slightly chalky tannins. All of the flavours taper to savoury, earthy, and mineral-tinged notes on the long finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Other lovely wines by Kechris are available through the LCBO, or their Agent - KOLONAKI Group of Companies.

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Mulderbosch Faithful Hound 2023 (South Africa) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely, vegan-friendly, and predominantly Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend from South Africa that arrived at the LCBO in last weekend's April 11th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Mulderbosch Vineyards, a winery that was founded in 1989 by Larry Jacobs, a former physician, and winemaker Mike Dobrovic. When Larry and Mike discovered this property, it was a run-down old fruit farm that had been lying fallow for close to a century, with no history of viticulture. With visionary optimism, they saw the potential to create good wine on this humble property, cleared out the years of neglect, and turned the site into one of Stellenbosch's most exciting winegrowing corners.

Mulderbosch Vineyards is situated in Stellenbosch Kloof, South Africa's finest winegrowng area, about 14 km north of False Bay. This particular area has sloped vineyards that offer optimal exposure to the sun, varied soil types ranging from Malmesbury shale and Table Mountain sandstone to sandy duplex and decomposed granite. Furthermore, the region feels the effects of the cooling ocean breezes, which naturally brings down the temperatures and allows for slow ripening, good acidity, and richer, more expressive aromas and flavours in their grapes. Mulderbosch created their first wines from the 1992 vintage and accolades and international acclaim followed immediately thereafter.

While Larry and Mike are no longer involved with Mulderbosch, as the winery has changed ownership several times over the years, the leadership teams over the years have done their best to maintain the founders' track record and build on the reputation that was established. The pursuits and dreams at Mulderbosch are based on the same principles of excellence, creativity, and innovation. These days, many of their innovations come from paying very close attention to what happens below and above ground - from the health of the soils to the well-being, harmony, resilience, and longevity of their vineyards. They practice mindful viticulture and have created an environment to protect and promote biodiversity. At the winery, they gently handle the firm, optimally ripened and flavourful fruit, and stand back and let the wines speak for themselves. Mulderbosch is also committed to eco- and socially-responsible farming and production, and is accredited, along with their supplier growers, with both Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) and Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trading Association (WIETA) of South Africa.

As a Bordeaux blend and one of Mulderbosch's first wines since its inception more than 30 years ago, the Faithful Hound's composition changes each vintage. For the 2023 vintage, this red wine is composed of 44% Cabernet Franc, 26% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot, and 4% Malbec. Each parcel of grapes is typically vinified separately, with fermentation taking place primarily in stainless steel using indigenous yeasts. The wines were aged for 16 months in neutral French oak barrels, 3rd fill and older, prior to assembling the final blend and then bottling.

The growing season in 2023 in South Africa was beset with various challenges. Winter was relatively mild and dry, which allowed for early budbreak and flowering. However, summer provided cool and wet conditions, which slowed ripening. Those that picked before the rainstorms arrived in Stellenbosch yielded powerful and ripe grapes that were full of flavour, while those that had to pick during the rain were forced to slowly harvest. As is often said, it is the harvest season that makes or breaks the vintage. While phenolic development was sufficient, this could be the reason why there is very little Cabernet Sauvignon in this cuvée in this vintage. Overall, it is considered to be a good year, with the wines exhibiting elegant, cool-climate characters. Let's see how this 2023 Bordeaux blend from Stellenbosch in South Africa is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MULDERBOSCH FAITHFUL HOUND 2023 - Vegan, WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#922443) (XD) - $20.95
This blend of 44% Cabernet Franc, 26% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot, and 4% Malbec has a lifted, medium-high intensity nose that delivers fragrant ripe red berry fruit, bay leaf, and green herbal aromas, plus whiffs of tobacco, currant, cassis, cedary oak spice, and earth. The medium to medium-full bodied palate is dry and elegant with lovely ripe red berry fruit, bay leaf, cassis, currant, tobacco, grilled herb, cocoa, and oak spice flavours. It's supported by crisp and juicy acidity, while the ripe, elegant tannins offer a supple, textural grip. More bay leaf, grilled herbs, cassis, and cedary oak notes linger on the long, supple, and well-balanced finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 5 years. Score: 89 pts

Other fine wines by Mulderbosch Vineyards can be ordered through their Agent - Abcon International Wine Merchants.

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Château Plantey Pauillac 2020 (Bordeaux) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is an excellent follow-up to the lovely 2018 Château Plantey from Bordeaux that I enjoyed last April. This latest vintage arrived at the LCBO a few weeks ago in the March 21st LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Château Plantey is situated in the prestigious Pauillac appellation within Haut-Médoc on Bordeaux's Left Bank. The Pauillac appellation bears almost a third of the 60 classified growths in the 1855 classification and these prestigious estates represent 85% of the surface area of the appellation. The remaining 15% of the area, which represents a few dozen hectares, leaves room for more discreet names, such as Château Plantey.

The small village of Pauillac is located on the west (left) bank of the Gironde, while Château Plantey is only a couple of kilometres west of the village centre. Château Plantey is an old property which used to be owned by the De Gerès family from Loupes, Seigneurs of Camarsac. It was purchased by prominent winegrower Gabriel Meffre, who was originally from Vaucluse, in 1958, along with other properties in the nearby regions of Saint-Estèphe and Saint-Julien.

Today, Château Plantey is owned by Claude Meffre, son of Gabriel. Claude joined the family business in 1996 and first managed property in Saint-Estèphe - Château La Commanderie. Starting in 2000, Claude began managing Château Plantey.

Like the last vintage, this red wine is crafted with 50% Merlot and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Left Bank Bordeaux cru bourgeois appellation of Pauillac. While most red wines from the Left Bank are Cabernet Sauvignon-driven, this red wine is unique in that it is a blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The 27 hectares of vines average 30 years old, reside in an area about 30 metres higher than the area surrounding them, and are planted on sandy-gravelly soils. After harvesting the grapes, they underwent traditional Bordeaux vinification, followed by ageing for 12 months in barrels.

The 2020 growing season in Bordeaux produced yet another high-quality vintage. It began with a rainy winter that provided ample water reserves. However, the rain stretched into spring, which led to severe mildew pressures. Summer was hot and dry, which resulted in an earlier harvest. September brought warm days and chilly nights, which was ideal for the grapes to reach phenolic ripeness. From a superb vintage, which some consider a legendary modern classic, let's see how this 2020 Bordeaux red wine is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CHÂTEAU PLANTEY PAUILLAC 2020 - Sustainable, AOC, Bordeaux, France (#38192) (XD) - $34.95
This 50/50 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon is fresh, open, and lifted, with a medium-high intensity nose offering lovely, well-balanced aromas of ripe red & black fruits, currant, cassis, blackberry, and peppery spice layered over savoury earth with accents of graphite and floral. On the dry, medium-full bodied palate it is well-structured with lovely red & black fruit, currant, cassis, graphite, earth, spice, and black cherry flavours in a complex profile. Acids are juicy and structured, while the youthful, grippy, and chalky textured tannins will reward cellaring. Savoury with graphite and mineral notes lingering on the juicy finish, with excellent length. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the coming 8-9 years. Score: 92 pts

Larger quantities of this lovely wine can be ordered through their Agent - Dionysus Wines & Spirits.

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Praise Bistro Blanc 2024 and Bistro Rouge 2024 (Languedoc) - Wine Reviews

Tonight's wine reviews are a pair of delicious, vegan-friendly IGP Pays d'Oc wines from Languedoc that are brand-new arrivals at the LCBO, with both landing in-store and online in the March 21 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Praise Wines was founded a few years ago by sommeliers, friends, and business partners Scott Zebarth and Will Predhomme. Praise was born out of a desire to democratize wine, with the core values of quality, transparency, collaboration, sustainability, empowerment, and life-changing. In addition to making wine accessible for everyone, they wanted to go one step further and launched their Drink Better Initiative.

In today's world, access to clean water is the biggest crisis in the world, and the team at Praise believes that everyone should have access to clean water. At Praise, they are on a mission to combat the water crisis and create a positive impact through their wine brand. Praise believes that businesses can be agents of change and transform the world together. Their vision is to end water scarcity and build a sustainable future where humanity thrives in harmony with nature. With their commitment to making a difference, each bottle of Praise wine helps provide clean and safe water, an essential resource, to those in need for one year.

Praise proudly works with Water.org, who offers a portfolio of smart solutions that break down the financial barriers between people living in poverty and access to safe water and sanitation. Their unique solutions are adapted to the conditions in 11 countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, as they work in collaboration with their in-country partners to provide efficient and scalable solutions, while using financing as a tool to help those in need.

There are only two wines in the Praise portfolio - the Bistro Blanc and Bistro Rouge. Both wines are crafted using organically cultivated grapes that were grown in Minervois, Languedoc, and labelled as IGP Pays d'Oc wines. Additionally, both wines are vegan-friendly, sustainable HVE3 certified, and packaged with environmentally-friendly packaging.

The growing season in 2024 in Minervois experienced drought conditions for the third year in a row, along with hot (and sometimes very hot) temperatures, which led to reduced yields. The resulting wines were generally aromatic with concentrated and dense flavours. From a very good vintage in terms of quality, let's see how these two IGP Pays d'Oc wines from Languedoc are tasting tonight...

Tasting Notes:

PRAISE BISTRO BLANC 2024 - Vegan, Sustainable, IGP Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, France (#46876) (XD) - $18.95
Blend of 70% Marsanne and 30% Viognier grown in Minervios and enclosed by screw cap. The delicate, medium+ intensity nose offers ripe yellow fruit, lemon citrus, pear, and floral aromas with touches of fresh herbs and honeysuckle. On the dry, medium-full bodied palate it has impressive weight and concentration with flavours of ripe lemon citrus, pear, white peach, floral, and herbs, plus touches of gummy bear notes. It has juicy, well-balanced acidity, along with some warmth and spice on the mid-palate. Pear and citrus notes taper to leesy minerals on the finish, with good length. Recommended buy. Score: 88 pts

PRAISE BISTRO ROUGE 2024 - Vegan, Sustainable, IGP Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, France (#46339) (D) - $18.95
100% Grenache enclosed by screw cap. The fresh, open, medium-high intensity nose is quite ripe and fruity with a fine mix of red berry, raspberry, savoury earth, and spice aromas, plus hints of white pepper and milk chocolate. On the mid-weighted palate it has fresh, juicy, and lively acidity that supports the ripe-fruited flavours of raspberry, white pepper spice, clove, and chocolate, with savoury earth undertones. It has ripe, supple tannins with a slightly gritty texture. The ripe fruit has a touch of sweetness that is masked by the high acids, which makes the wine come off as dry. Ripe raspberry, spice, and savoury earth notes linger on crisp finish, with very good length. Give it a light chill, crack open and enjoy! Score: 87+ pts

Both of these wines can also be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Licenciado Reserva 2020 (Rioja) - Wine Review

For the long weekend, tonight's red wine review is a lovely Tempranillo from Rioja that arrived at the LCBO as part of the feature on wines for Easter in the recent March 21 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Like the 2020 Burgo Viejo Reserva I enjoyed last year, this red wine is also produced by Bodegas Burgo Viejo, a co-operative style of winery that was formed at the end of the 1980s by six neighbouring families in La Rioja, Spain. The winegrowing families of Castillo Garcia, Galán Garijo, Gurría García, Marques Malumbres, Rivas Marques, and Ruiz Casas came together, along with their vineyards, winegrowing traditions, and age-old knowledge that was passed down from one generation to the next to create wines with an innovative spirit under a single brand.

Together, they have 200 hectares of vineyards that they cultivate with care, and are able to produce a wide range of wines that combine the tradition of La Rioja with new market trends that meet the demands of consumers worldwide. Their vines average 30+ years of age, with some dating back almost a century, while newer plantings are grown organically and represent the future.

While Burgo Viejo has several lines of wines, this particular wine is the lone wine in the Licenciado range. This wine has been crafted since at least the 2006 vintage and represented a shift in Burgo Viejo's philosophy to premium, estate wines. It also coincided with the time of Mr. Gorka Etxebarria's arrival at Burgo Viejo in 2003. Gorka holds a Graduate Degree in Oenology from the University of La Rioja and has worked for some of Rioja's most prestigious wineries. Since 2003, Gorka has been leading the winemaking process at Burgo Viejo, where he combines an innovative approach with traditional methods to produce the finest results that the wonderful vineyards have to offer.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Tempranillo that was grown in vineyards throughout the municipality of Alfaro in La Rioja of Spain, at the foot of the Yerga Mountain and on the banks of the fertile Ebro valley. This area offers a wide diversity of soils and microclimates where Tempranillo — the flagship variety of the region — thrives and becomes a special Rioja wine. As the vineyards are owned by Bodegas Burgo Viejo, the team constantly works the vineyards as required in order to produce top-quality grapes, as well as decides the precise time for harvest.

It was vinified by de-stemming and lightly crushing the grapes, followed by a temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks. It also underwent malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks, and then was matured for at least 18 months in 225 L oak barriques.

In 2020, the hot growing season featured rainfall and early budding, which resulted in an early and uneven harvest. Some areas were also severely hit by hail and mildew, which resulted in smaller yields in these areas, while areas not impacted by these conditions had more generous yields. Rainfall in September also presented challenges, but those that harvested after the rain benefited from northern winds and generally excellent conditions, produced balanced wines with moderate alcohol, good acidity, and deep colour. From a very good vintage, let's see how this 2020 Tempranillo Rioja Reserva is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LICENCIADO RESERVA 2020 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#370023) (XD) - $19.95
This 100% Tempranillo has lovely, medium-high intensity aromas that are clean and well-balanced with ripe dark red berry, black cherry, coconut, and oak spice, plus touches of floral, wild raspberry, savoury earth, and cocoa. On the dry, medium+ to medium-full bodied palate it has more dark red berry notes of strawberry, raspberry, and black cherry nuanced with coconut, oak spice, earth, and cocoa notes. It's well-structured with crisp and succulent acidity, along with refined, dusty textured tannins that are a touch grippy on the back palate. Savoury with coconut, toasty oak, and earthy notes on the long finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the coming 5-7 years. Score: 89 pts

Other lovely wines by Burgo Viejo can be ordered through their Agent - Dionysus Wines & Spirits.

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Mega Spileo Cuvée III Red 2023 (Greece) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely blend of mainly Mavrodaphne and Cabernet Sauvignon from Greece that arrived at the LCBO just over a week ago in the March 21st LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Like the lovely 2023 Mega Spileo Assyrtiko I enjoyed last year, this wine is produced by Mega Spileo Estate, a historically significant monastery and winery whose roots date back to 362 A.D. The monastery was established by brothers who were also monks near the town of Kalavryta, in the Achaea region of northern Peloponnese, and holds a special place in Greek orthodox tradition and history.

In the mid-15th century, vine cultivation was added to the lands surrounding the winery. The grapes harvested from these vines were used by the monks to produce wine for both the Holy Communion and as a nutritious dietary supplement. During this period, a massive barrel called "Angelis" was acquired and used to store 12 tonnes of wine - this barrel still survives today.

The latest chapter in Mega Spileo's long and storied history opened in 1999 when brothers Giannis and Theodoros Anastasiou received a long-term lease on the Estate from the Monastery. The brothers' vision was to revitalize the historical vineyard using a team of experienced oenologists and wine producers in order to create a completely new and unique estate. Situated only a few minutes away from the historical monastery, Mega Spileo Estate is located within the UNESCO Chelmos-Vouraikos Global Geopark, which covers an area of 647 km² and is surrounded by tall mountains, plateaus, sheer gorges, ancient trees, wild herbs, flowers, and cool breezes, all of which come together to create a unique microclimate that is ideal for winegrowing. By replanting vineyards and implementing best practices in both the vineyard and winery, including protecting the environment and using sustainable agricultural techniques, Mega Spileo is now a thriving estate winery and a reference point for premium Greek wines.

This wine is one of two wines from Mega Spileo's "Cuvée III" range, which is named as such because each wine in the range is crafted using three varietals that blend indigenous Greek varieties with international varieties. The grapes for Cuvée III wines are also grown at altitude and express a modern Greek identity.

The Mega Spileo Cuvée III Red is a blend of 40% Mavrodaphne, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Agiorgitiko that was grown in mountain vineyards surrounding the Mega Spileo vineyard, between 700 and 800 metres above sea level, within the PGI Achaia regional appellation of the Peloponnese. Each varietal was vinified separately, with the grape must and marc (pomace) remaining in contact until fermentation is complete. The varieties are then blended and matured for 8 months in new American oak barrels.

In 2023, heavy rainfall during spring caused severe diseases such as downy mildew, which was followed by elevated temperatures and drought during the summer months. While these conditions reduced yields, grape quality is high. Let's see how this 2023 red blend from Greece is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MEGA SPILEO CUVÉE III RED 2023 - PGI Achaia, Greece (#25708) (D) - $21.95
This blend of 40% Mavrodaphne, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Agiorgitiko has a medium+ to medium-high intensity nose that delivers lush and ripe dark berry, black cherry, blackberry aromas alongside sweet oak, vanilla and cocoa notes. On medium-bodied palate it ripe and sweet fruited with delicious cassis, black cherry, blackberry, vanillin oak, and cocoa flavours. Subtle spice on the mid-palate. Acids are fresh and juicy, while the tannins offer some chalkiness and textural grip. Cassis and ripe dark berry notes taper to savoury, cocoa, vanilla, oak, and smoke on the long lasting finish. Shows much better balance than the previous vintage and is a recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Small quantities of many Mego Spileo wines are available the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - KOLONAKI Group of Companies.

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Domaine les Evigneaux Cuvée Belle Dame Rasteau 2022 (Rhône) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Rasteau from the Southern Rhône that made its debut at the LCBO a couple of weeks ago in the March 7 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and was part of the feature on Women in Wine.

Domaine les Evigneaux is owned by Maison LAVAU, a well-respected producer situated near the village of Sablet, at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail hills in the Southern Rhône Valley. The Lavau family has been involved in winemaking for several generations and have built a reputation as one of the region's top winemakers thanks to their dedication to high-quality standards, attention to detail, and thirst for excellence. After completing their studies in Canada, brothers Frédéric and Benoît Lavau joined the family business, and by 2000 they took over the company as their parents decided to retire.

In 2013, the Lavau family formed a partnership with Bénédicte Bonnet, née Arnaud, and her husband, Charles, who brought along with them the historic Château Maucoil property in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Bénédicte and the Lavau brothers have always been fans of Rasteau, which became a Cru in 2010, and have been making wines from this appellation for many years. In 2014, because of their special fondness for vineyards in Rasteau, they decided to acquire a few special and "atypical" vineyards in this area because of their outstanding exposure. In all, they acquired 10 hectares of vineyards consisting of 12 plots in Rasteau's most emblematic terroirs, which formed the plans to create a wine capable of delivering all the complexity and power of this extraordinary AOC, and would go on to become Domaine les Evigneaux.

The vineyards of Domaine les Evigneaux are perched upon a hill overlooking the Dentelles de Montmirail Mountains, with an uneven terrain that offers a great diversity of soils and a fascinating landscape. As you move from one terrace to another, depending on the slope, the soil changes from clay-chalk to blue marl, and from rounded pebbles to red marl. On the lower terraces, the soil is strewn with rounded pebbles that are perfect for Grenache, while the hillsides have poorer soils of clay-chalk, and sometimes almost sandy, which is equally good not only for Grenache, but also the region's other emblematic varietals: Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Carignan, among others. The Domaine takes full advantage of this geological diversity and blends grapes from these different profiles to create complex wines which assure the reputation of the Rhône Valley Cru of Rasteau.

This red wine is proudly crafted by Bénédicte Bonnet, who comes from a winegrowing family. She is an independent and hands-on winemaker who personally directs every stage of production from vineyard cultivation to final blending to ageing, ensuring that each bottle reflects her uncompromising standards, vision, and expertise. Her work embodies the confidence, talent, and leadership of women redefining the Rhône's great terroirs.

All grown within the Rasteau appellation of the Southern Rhône Valley, this red wine is composed of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 10% Carignan, 5% Mourvèdre, and 5% Cinsault. The Syrah vines are planted on gravel and clay soil of the Quaternary terraces of Bellerive, in the south of the appellation, where it is sunny and early ripening, conditions which are ideal for growing Syrah. The Grenache vines are planted to the north in cooler soils which accentuate the diurnal temperatures (the difference between day and night temperatures), resulting in grapes with enhanced colour and aromatics. The pebble and gravel soils where Grenache is planted are mixed with a complex clay, which allows for constant, even drainage, and water supply.

To vinifiy this wine, the grapes were 100% destemmed, then underwent a cold pre-fermentation maceration, followed by 28 days of maceration with pumping over and rack and return. It was aged for 12 months, with 70% in 228 L barrels from the François Frères cooperage in Burgundy and 30% in amphoras.

In 2022, the growing season in the Southern Rhône was marked by extreme conditions with intense heat and drought. The year began with a dry winter and very little rain, followed by a spring that warmed up rapidly. While April did experience a fleeting cold snap, temperatures continued to rise, with successful budburst and flowering. May was abnormally hot, while rain in June brought some relief. On a positive note, the heat and drought during the summer months kept rot and disease at bay. In August, humidity arrived and revived the vines, which greatly benefited the red grape varieties Grenache and Syrah. From a high quality vintage with superb wines, let's see how this 2022 Rasteau is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

DOMAINE LES EVIGNEAUX CUVÉE BELLE DAME RASTEAU 2022 - AOP, Rhône, France (#47575) (XD) - $28.95
This blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 10% Carignan, 5% Mourvèdre, and 5% Cinsault has a medium+ intensity nose that seems a bit shy, offering deep and warming aromas of ripe dark red wild berries, black cherry, kirsch, raspberry, garrigue, and spices with hints of stones, meaty, rose floral, and savoury earth. It's medium-full bodied, concentrated, and impressively structured on the dry palate with warming flavours of ripe raspberry, black cherry, garrigue, spices, stony mineral, meaty, and savoury earth. Acids are juicy and well-balanced, while the fine-grained tannins are structured with a slightly youthful grip. Warming, yet within balance, with wild berry, raspberry, garrigue, spice, and stony-smoky minerals on the long, savoury finish. Could pass for a Châteauneuf-du-Pape. At 15% abv, chill and enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 5+ years. Score: 91+ pts

At the moment, this is the only wine by Domaine les Evigneaux, but other wines down the line may be available through their Agent - Eurovintage Wines & Spirits.

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Yalumba Galway Vintage Shiraz 2023 (Barossa) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Barossa Shiraz that arrived at the LCBO as part of the feature story about Women in Wine in the recent March 7 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Yalumba, one of Australia's most historically important wineries. Recognized as Australia's oldest continuously family-owned winery, Yalumba was founded in 1849 by Samuel Smith when he planted his first vines in the heart of the Barossa with a genuine respect for the land and a willingness to venture into the unknown.

As Yalumba has always had a deep connection to the Barossa, their long-term vision is manifested in their marble and sandstone Clocktower - a solid monument that is their commitment to the region. Their passion is displayed by their Cooperage, which is the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, where they continue a proud tradition of crafting barrels.

In 1893, Fred Caley Smith, the third generation of the family, took to the seas on a grand scientific discovery and returned with progressive horticultural developments that laid the foundation for sustainable viticulture and winemaking at Yalumba.

Today, Yalumba is in the hands of the fifth and sixth generations of the Hill-Smith family. As custodians, they have enormous respect for the generations that came before them, and also realize that a family wine business doesn't thrive across three centuries by standing still, and that change is a constant. The family spends most of their time looking forward and always strive to innovate and reduce their impact on the environment. The winemaking philosophy at Yalumba is based on minimal intervention, which includes organic and vegan-friendly practices, as well as wild fermentation.

The team at Yalumba is led by Robert Hill-Smith, the fifth generation of the family. Robert led Yalumba into the modern era by cementing their reputation as an internationally-focused and innovative wine business. He pioneered Viognier in Australia and established Australia's First Families of Wine. Sisters Jessica and Lucy Hill-Smith, daughters of Robert and the sixth generation, have also joined the family business, with Jessica taking on the role of General Manager of PR & Communications, while Lucy is based in the UK as a Fine Wine Ambassador.

At Yalumba, the winemaking team is led by Head Winemaker Sam Wigan, along with Louisa Rose, who is also a Winemaker and Head of Sustainability. Louisa is featured on page 20 of the Vintages Catalogue and is the reason for the inclusion on the feature about Women in Wine. Louisa joined Yalumba in 1992 and is one of Australia's most respected winemakers. She has gained international recognition as a pioneer for her work with Viognier and cool-climate Riesling, as well as her passion and push for sustainable viticulture without synthetic insecticides. Over the years, Yalumba has won 43 accolades for their sustainable practices, including the International Award of Excellence for Sustainable Wine Growing & the International Green Apple Gold Award, with Louisa playing an instrumental role.

First crafted in 1943, the Galway Shiraz is named after Lord Galway who served as Governor of South Australia. Lord Galway was an enthusiastic supporter of the local wine industry, particularly Yalumba and the broader Barossa wine community. To craft this 100% Shiraz, the grapes were sourced from various vineyards throughout the renowned Barossa wine region, from terroirs ranging from sandy soils to sandy loam, and from red-brown earth over red clay, which are ideal for growing expressive Shiraz. The grapes were harvested in March and April 2023, traditionally vinified, and then matured in French oak for 6–8 weeks.

The growing season during this vintage began with wet soils from abundant rainfall, along with cooler than average temperatures in September and October. This delayed the growing season by several weeks, and was joined by windy conditions during flowering, which resulted in lower fruit set at some vineyards. A relatively mild summer allowed the grapes to thrive, resulting in an elegantly restrained wine with character and charm. From a low-yielding, cool-climate year yielding high-quality and elegant wines, let's see how this 2023 Barossa Shiraz is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

YALUMBA GALWAY VINTAGE SHIRAZ 2023 - Vegan, Sustainable, Barossa, South Australia (#41311) (XD) - $19.95
Enclosed by screw cap, the medium-high intensity nose leads with savoury earth and slightly meaty aromas layered over an attractive and complex mix of black pepper spice, ripe dark red fruits, black cherry, cassis, plum, and black currant notes with a touch of oak. The medium+ bodied palate is dry with lovely, well-balanced flavours of dark red fruit, currant, cassis, black pepper spice, plum, savoury earth, gentle oak spice, and touches of smoky mineral. It's well-structured with elegant and mildly grippy tannins that are supple, smooth, and refined. Acids are fresh and juicy. A touch tangy with currant, cassis, and peppery spice notes tapering to savoury, smoky mineral notes on the long, juicy, and well-balanced finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

Several wines by Yalumba are available at the LCBO, while the full portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Woodman Wines & Spirits.

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Domaine Gioulis Agia Paraskevi Vineyard Agiorgitiko 2023 (Greece) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely, organic, single vineyard Agiorgitiko from Greece. It made its debut at the LCBO in last weekend's LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on March 7th.

It is produced by Domaine Gioulis, a family estate winery that was founded in 1993 by George Gioulis, an Agronomist & Oenologist who studied at the University of Bordeaux. Domaine Gioulis is situated in Klimenti, an old village located in the province of Corinth, near the valley of Nemea in the northern part of the Peloponnese peninsula.

Klimenti was built in 1400 A.D. on the steep slopes of Mount Ziria, at approximately 960 metres above sea level, close to Lake Stymphalia and 20 km upstream from the coastal city of Kiato (ancient Sikyon). Viticulture has been practiced in this area by residents since the early 19th century. Based on the mountainous characteristics of the region, Mr. Gioulis decided to establish this winery in his place of origin and planted his first vineyard with Cabernet Sauvignon vines. This vineyard is regarded as one of the first certified organic vineyards in Greece.

Over the years, Domaine Gioulis has expanded and grown by adding vineyards and buildings. The second generation of the Gioulis family have also become active in the business after completing their studies. Dimitris, son of George, studied oenology at the University of Athens and now oversees winemaking and production, while daughter Ermioni studied Business Administration and the trade of wines & spirits and now handles commercial and marketing activities. Together with their father, the family aims to produce fine wines from their privately owned vineyards, while also highlighting the qualitative characteristics of the mountainous Klimenti wine region.

The climate in Klimenti is semi-continental with heavy winters and cool summers, conditions which favour organic farming. During the growing season, the climate is sunny with adequate rainfall and cool, northerly winds, which contribute to the absence of insects and reduced diseases. This climate gives rise to wines with minerality and length that is rare for hot-climate wines, and even during very hot and dry years, the quality of the wines remains unaffected. The southern Mediterranean microclimate in this area is also balanced by the mountain breeze from the Ziria mountains.

This red wine is crafted using 100% Agiorgitiko that was grown organically at the Agia Paraskevi Vineyard that is situated at a high altitude of 870 metres above sea level. This plot is located on the Peloponnese peninsula within the PGI Korinthia subzone, but borders the famous PDO of Nemea to the southeast. The grapes were manually harvested at optimum maturity, traditionally vinified, and aged in oak barrels. Grown at high altitude, the wine gives rise to elegant aromas due to the cooler growing conditions, lower grape maturation temperatures, and a continuous light breeze.

In 2023, the growing season was marked by heavy rainfall during spring, which caused severe diseases such as downy mildew, followed by elevated temperatures and drought during the summer months. Combined, these conditions impacted the vines and reduced yields. However, quality is high. Let's see how this 2023 Agiorgitiko from Korinthia in Peloponnese, Greece, is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

DOMAINE GIOULIS AGIA PARASKEVI VINEYARD AGIORGITIKO 2023 - PGI Korinthia, Greece (#48276) (XD) - $19.95
This organic Agiorgitiko has a medium-high intensity nose that offers an intriguing and funky mix of savoury blackberry, earth, and leather aromas followed by hints of ripe fruits such as pomegranate, black cherry, ripe raspberry, and plum. On the dry, medium+ weighted palate it offers delicious cran-black cherry, pomegranate, plum, raspberry, and spice flavours surrounding a core of savoury earth. It has crisp and juicy acidity, alongside supple, textured tannins. Some minerality on the back palate, while cran-black cherry and raspberry notes taper to savoury earth on the crisp finish, with very good length. A unique wine and a recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

Other lovely wines by Domaine Gioulis can be ordered through their Agent - Rare Earth Wines.

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Kir-Yianni Cuvée Villages Xinomavro 2022 (Greece) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is the latest vintage of a terrific, vegan-friendly Xinomavro from Greece that arrived at the LCBO over the weekend in the March 7 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Kir-Yianni is the producer of this lovely Greek red wine. The highly-regarded wine producer was founded in 1997 by Yiannis Boutaris, a legendary winemaker and Greek wine maverick who also represented the 4th generation of the famed Boutaris winemaking family.

As a visionary and innovator, Mr. Boutaris' career path seemed predestined, leading to studies in Chemistry and Oenology. By1970, Yiannis left his family's wine business to chart his own path, eventually settling in the eastern foothills of Mt. Vermion, Yianakohori, near the town of Naoussa, where he planted 40 hectares of Xinomavro vines. This single vineyard planting of Xinomavro was the pioneering viticulture which both inspired and jolted the status quo in Greek winemaking, and also marked a new era in Greek winemaking which rejuvenated the region and empowered local growers.

This vineyard would go on to become Ktima Kir-Yianni - a name that was chosen because everyone used to call him "Kir", which meant "Sir" in Greek. Thus, the name Kir-Yianni was born. After planting more vines over the years, Yiannis would go on to purchase an old winery in 1996 in the village of Agios Panteleimon. This winery was completely rebuilt and inaugurated a year later to become the new Ktima Kir-Yianni.

In 1999, Stellios Boutaris, son of Yiannis, became Managing Director, and he was joined soon thereafter by his brother, Mihalis. There was intense experimentation and research on the Xinomavro varietal during this period, which led to replanting and acquisition of vineyards. In 2004, Stellios took over the family business as CEO and winemaker. Today, the philosophy at Kir-Yianni is a fine balance between a hundred-year-long family tradition and the use of new and innovative winemaking techniques, with the aim of producing appealing wines that reflect the potential of the Greek vineyard and its indigenous varieties. Furthermore, activities in the vineyard and at the winery are based on the principles of integrated farming and protecting the environment. At Kir-Yianni, sustainability is both a philosophy and a vital business decision that entails dedication, realism, and systematic investment, and in 2023 they started their journey to carbon neutrality.

Like the 2021 Kir-Yianni Cuvée Villages Xinomavro I enjoyed around this time last year, this red wine is crafted with 100% Xinomavro. As the name suggests, the "Cuvée Villages" is a strict selection of grapes from younger vines grown on the Estate and parcels from small winegrowers across the PDO zone of Naoussa. The villages of Naoussa offer an interesting and diverse mix of hilly terrain with variations in altitude, slope, soil structure, and orientation. This wine by Kir-Yianni is a wine enthusiast's introduction to the great richness of the viticultural and winemaking traditions of the region, as well as the dynamics of Xinomavro in its heartland terroir.

To craft this Xinomavro, the grapes were harvested from the end of September, cooled to 10°C, then underwent a rigorous grape selection on a conveyor belt. After cold-soaking for 6 days at low temperatures, it underwent alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks for 12 to 15 days at temperatures of 20–23°C. Malolactic fermentation and maturation took place in mainly 225 litre and 500 litre French oak barrels, in a combination of both new and 3rd-to-5th fill used barrels, for 12 months. The first blend was made on the 6th month of maturation. After bottling, the wine is further matured for 12 months in the cellar prior to release.

In 2022, the season began with a cold winter and snowy mountain tops, along with rain which contributed to the increase of bud fertility, as well as the enrichment of the aqueous horizon with water. Spring started colder and was drier than usual, which resulted in a later, but even budbreak. Summer featured mild temperatures, apart from a heatwave in the first half of August. September began with 100 mm of heavy rain and continued with almost 40 days of high daytime temperatures and cool nights. From a very good to excellent vintage, let's see how this 2022 Xinomavro from Naoussa is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

KIR-YIANNI CUVÉE VILLAGES XINOMAVRO 2022 - Vegan, PDO Naoussa, Greece (#14151) (XD) - $21.95
This 100% Xinomavro has a lovely, medium-high to highly aromatic nose that is open with ripe red berry, cherry, tomato, and Damson plum nuanced with hints of rose floral, tar, dried cherry, earth, and sweet spice adding elegance and complexity. On the dry, medium+ bodied palate it has ripe, Damson plum, red berry, tomato, savoury earth, and sweet spice flavours in a gently spicy profile. Acids are crisp and juicy, while the well-structured tannins are refined and finely textured with a gentle grip. Cherry and tomato notes taper to earthy and oak notes with touches of mineral on the long, savoury, and crisp finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Quite a few wines by Kir-Yianni are available online and in a couple of stores in the GTA, and can also be ordered through their Agent - KOLONAKI Group of Companies.

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Maturana Puente Austral Gran Reserva Carmenère 2022 (Chile) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Chilean Carmenère that made its debut at the LCBO about ten days ago in the February 21 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection. It was also featured on the cover of the release catalogue and was part of the thematic on wines from the Southern Hemisphere.

It is produced by Maturana Winery, a family-owned boutique winery that was established by the Maturana brothers, José Ignacio and Sebastian. The brothers had a great passion for viticulture and wine, and after the great earthquake in Chile in 2010, they decided that there was no time to waste in pursuing their passion.

With sustainability at the top of mind, the Maturana brothers have been producing unique wines which represent a way of life. Their philosophy since the beginning has been to capture the identity of each variety and specific place, and allow each to be expressed in the wine. In order to achieve the best expression of each variety and place, Maturana uses innovative approaches to fermentation and ageing by using different materials such as concrete in different sizes and shapes, clay jars, or French oak. The brothers welcome differentiation and look at doing things differently as an opportunity. To further their sustainability efforts, Maturana supports the natural and responsible management of vineyards, which benefits the growers and their families. As an example, Maturana pays their growers more than 7 times the market average for the price per kilo of grapes.

At Maturana, passion and quality are the main drivers. They are also firmly committed to making known old vineyards and native strains of varieties that exist in central Chile, with some of these vineyards dating back to the year 1900. Their mission is to produce the best quality wines, with the image, name, and communication method all playing a role and contributing to their concept of creating something unique. Their motto is based on the Walt Disney phrase - "Dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them."

While I enjoyed the 2022 Maturana Puente Austral Reserva Privada Carmenère just over a year ago, this red wine is from the same vintage, but comes from their Gran Reserva line, which is a step up from their Reserva Privada line. Like the wine tasted last year, this red wine is also crafted with 100% Carmenère, but was aged for 12 months in third-use French oak barrels.

In 2022, the growing season began with a cold winter that was extremely dry. With parched soil and a cool spring, vine growth was slow, along with several frosts which cut yields. However, budburst and flowering were reasonably successful, leading to a summer that was cooler than normal, until late in the season when it started to heat up, which was vital in helping red grape varieties reach phenolic ripeness. Light rains late in the season also provided some relief. During harvest, the weather was warm and dry, and while yields were down due to drought and frosts, the quality is excellent with wines exhibiting exceptional concentration, balance, purity, and structure. Let's see how this 2022 Carmenère from Chile is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MATURANA PUENTE AUSTRAL GRAN RESERVA CARMENÈRE 2022 - Valle de Colchagua, Chile (#47474) (XD) - $21.95
This 100% Carmenère is fresh and fragrant with a lovely, medium-high intensity nose of ripe red & black berry fruit, currant, tobacco, cococa, and savoury earth aromas mingling with dried & green herbals, and peppery spice. On the dry, medium-full bodied palate it is well-structured with very good concentration. Spicy flavours are joined by ripe blackberry fruit, currant, tobacco, and savoury earth notes accented with green herbs in a fairly complex profile. Juicy acids are supported by refined, slightly gritty textured tannins that have a mild grip. The finish is long and savoury with cedar, earth, and hints of smoky mineral. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Limited quantities of other wines, including a Semillon that is coming to LCBO VINTAGES this weekend, are available at the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - KOLONAKI Group of Companies.

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Bell'Aja Bolgheri 2022 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a beautiful red from Bolgheri that is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon. It arrived at the LCBO just over two weeks ago in the February 7 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by the renowned San Felice, a winery with roots dating back to the times of the Etruscan civilization more than 2,200 years ago. Findings unearthed on the estate show that the Etruscans shaped the Chianti territorial landscape, which also included the introduction of vine cultivation. The Borgo of San Felice, as it's known today, was established in the Middle Ages, with its first mention dating back to the year 714 when it was originally known as San Felice in Avana.

The latest chapter in San Felice's winemaking history begins in the 1960s when the winery changed hands for the first time in generations. After its acquisition, San Felice was developed and modernized, and ushered in a new era focused on quality wine production and research. Today, San Felice is an emblem of authentic Tuscany, with vineyards in the region's three-most prestigious winemaking territories - 150 hectares in Chianti Classico, 23 hectares in Montalcino, and 15 hectares in Bolgheri. In addition to producing wine from only estate-owned grapes, they also have Borgo San Felice Resort - a place where tourists can enjoy a fine Tuscan meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or spend some time at the Botanic Spa.

San Felice owns three estates in Tuscany and the Bell'Aja Estate is their newest venture. The six-hectare estate was established in 2016 in Bolgheri, a region famed for the breathtaking five-kilometre Cypress Avenue that is lined with 2,540 trees. Situated near the Tuscan coastline in the commune of Castagneto Carducci, within the province of Livorno, the estate is noted for its world-class vineyard which occupies a natural amphitheatre overlooking the sea, with a breeze that is ideal for winegrowing. The vines at Bell’Aja are planted on silt-sand soils, which are typical of the area, with four hectares dedicated to Merlot, and two hectares dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon. At this special location, the delicious sea breeze blows over the vineyards, while the forests behind them cool the terroir at night, conditions which create the ideal conditions for elegant fruit ripening. Today, San Felice's Bell'Aja estate is known for its highly prestigious Bolgheri and Bolgheri Superiore wines.

This particular red wine is from San Felice's Bell'Aja Estate, a Bolgheri Rosso DOC that is composed of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon that was grown on the estate on silt-sandy soil, which is typical of the area. The vines were trained using the spur-pruned cordon system. After harvesting the grapes from the last week of August to the second week of September, it underwent fermentation and maceration for 18 days, followed by 12 months of ageing in French oak barrels.

In 2022, the growing season was marked by drought that began at the end of winter and persisted for much of spring and summer. The saving grace for this vintage were the series of thunderstorms in mid-August, which was crucial during the grape ripening period. The grapes in Bolgheri responded very positively throughout as they were resilient to the initial lack of water, followed by efficiently metabolizing the rains, which ultimately allowed for optimal ripening, especially for later-ripening varieties. It was an early harvest that began around the third week of August and concluded at the end of September. The end result was low yields with small, concentrated berries that produced red wines with sturdy frames of ripe and grippy tannins. From a very good vintage, let's see how this 2022 Bolgheri is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

BELL'AJA BOLGHERI 2022 - DOC, Tuscany, Italy (#16890) (XD) - $39.95
Mainly Cabernet Sauvignon, this is beautifully fresh and elegant with a medium-high intensity nose that offers ripe aromas of red & black wild forest berries, currant, cassis, black cherry, plus rose florals over a layer of savoury wet earth and accents of sweet oak spice. On the dry, mid-weighted palate it has lovely wild forest berries flavours alongside oak spice, wet earth, and touches of dried herbs and graphite. Acids are fresh and juicy, while the refined and textured tannins develop some youthful grip on the back palate. Savoury with graphite mineral notes linger on the long, balanced finish. Enjoy this recommended buy over the coming 6-8 years. Score: 91+ pts

Quite a few wines by San Felice are listed on the LCBO website, with most available in only limited quantities, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Cap Royal Rouge Bordeaux Supérieur 2022 (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is the latest vintage of a vegan-friendly and terrific Merlot-based red wine from Bordeaux that arrived at the LCBO earlier this month in the February 7th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Cap Royal, a wine brand that is owned by wine merchant Compagnie Médocaine des Grands Crus. Over the last 35 years, the wine merchant has established itself as a key player in the Bordeaux wine trade, both in France and abroad. Médocaine des Grands Crus is a subsidiary of AXA Millésimes, which is the wine business unit of AXA Group. As a company that includes some of the world's finest Châteaux, they listen to their customers and does its utmost to assure their clients of top-quality wines.

Cap Royal owes its name to Cordouan lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse in Europe. The lighthouse is situated at the mouth of the Gironde estuary and has always had a bleak reputation due to the perilous nature of the area. Originally built in 1360, the lighthouse has evolved over the centuries to become "The Versailles of the Sea" and was classified as a historic monument in 1862. In 2021, it was officially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is nicknamed "King of Lighthouses" or "Lighthouse of Kings."

The team at Cap Royal is led by Pierre Montégut, a highly respected winemaker who began his career in winemaking in 1988. Pierre has worked for various prized Château across France and became Technical Director of Château Suduiraut in 2004, a position he still holds today. There are only two wines in this brand, and for Pierre, Cap Royal is a new philosophy and a new challenge: to select the best and create wines of pleasure wine that can be enjoyed by wine lovers all over the world.

When compared with the excellent 2018 Cap Royal Rouge I enjoyed over four years ago, this particular vintage is a blend of the same two grape varieties, but with a bit more Cabernet Sauvignon (up 5%) this time around and composed of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon from lots predominantly in the Médoc which were selected for their quality and complexity by Pierre Montégut with winemaker partners. The grapes were fermented in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats, and carefully aged in oak barrels under the regular supervision of Pierre.

The growing season in 2022 produced a legendary vintage in Bordeaux. It began with a cool and dry winter, with conditions persisting throughout spring, which allowed for both an early and successful budburst and flowering. April delivered the usual frosts, while June had significant hailstorms which cut yields. Temperatures continued to rise, with drought conditions settling in, and July was the driest in decades. Prominent heatwaves with virtually no rain from July onward meant the grapes reached phenolic ripeness very easily. Cool nights provided some relief from the heat. Most vineyards managed to escape the wrath of the July and August wildfires as the grapes already had thick skins at that point. Harvest began for the ripest Merlot at the beginning of September. From a vintage that produced exceptionally fine fruit, let's see how this 2022 Bordeaux red wine is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CAP ROYAL ROUGE BORDEAUX SUPÉRIEUR 2022 - Vegan, AOC, France (#486761) (XD) - $19.95
This blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon has a fresh, lifted, and medium-high intensity nose of ripe black & red berry fruit, currant, cassis, black cherry, blackberry, and grilled herb aromas nuanced with gentle cedar oak and touches of smoky mineral and savoury earth. On the dry, medium-full to full-bodied palate it has lovely, well-balanced, currant, cassis, blackberry, and black cherry flavours leyered over savoury earth and smoky minerals, plus grilled herb accents. Acids are fresh and juicy, while the structured and approachable tannins have good bones for ageing. It's gently grippy on the back palate, while berry notes give way to savoury earth and smoky minerals on the long finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Very few of the bottles of the Cap Royal White are currently available at the LCBO, but may be readily available through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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