Showing posts with label shiraz. Show all posts
Showing posts with label shiraz. Show all posts

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  • Date publishedFriday, October 13, 2017

Goats do Roam Red 2016 (South Africa) - Wine Review



wine is the companion to the 2017 Goats do Roam White that I opened last month. I recall enjoying this wine many, many years ago when I first got into wine, but hadn't tasted it recently. The catchy name, interesting label and low price point is what drew me to this wine many years ago, and if I recall correctly, the price hasn't moved much since that time. I'm curious to see how this wine tastes today.

It is produced by the Fairview Wine Farm, a winery that proudly owns all of their vineyards, with land in Paarl, Darling, Swartland and Stellenbosch. Owner Charles Back has also always been an advocate of social development in the Cape and under Apartheid, he was one of a number of producers who campaigned for and implemented better conditions for farm workers. In 1997, he established the Fair Valley Worker’s Association, which gave his employees a chance to farm their own land.

This dry red wine from South Africa is widely available at LCBO outlets across Ontario, with the 2016 vintage on shelves already or arriving really soon.

Goats do Roam Red 2016 (87 pts)

Tasting Note:

GOATS DO ROAM RED 2016 - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#718940) (XD) - $13.00
Blend of 49% Shiraz, 24% Cinsault, 12% Grenache, 11% Mourvèdre, 2% Petite Sirah, and 2% Carignan. Screw cap. This has generous aromas that are soft with plummy, peppery and red cherry notes, along with some meaty and vanillan oak nuances. It's medium-bodied on the dry palate with candied red berry fruit, chocolate oak and resinous flavours with touches of menthol. It has bright and juicy acids, some warmth mid-palate (14% abv), and soft tannins. Finish length is good with earthy-curranty notes. An easy drinking red for current consumption. Score: 87 pts


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  • Date publishedTuesday, August 29, 2017

LCBO VINTAGES September 2, 2017: New World Benchmarks + Syrah vs. Shiraz

LCBO Wine Picks from September 2, 2017 VINTAGES Release
The upcoming release in LCBO VINTAGES on is titled "Reference Library" and features benchmark varietals in new world wine regions as its main theme. Meanwhile, the mini-theme compares Syrah and Shiraz. These new wines will be on shelves this coming .

We'll begin with the feature on new world benchmark varietals, which lists 11 wines across 7 varietals. The wines in this feature include Ontario Chardonnay, California Cabernet Sauvignon, Oregon Pinot Noir, Argentinean Malbec, Australian Shiraz, Chilean Carmenere, and New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Just two wines from this theme are included on my list of top wine picks - the lovely 2027 Chardonnay (which came through VINTAGES in ) and a Carmenère from Chile.

2027 Wismer Vineyard Fox Croft Block Chardonnay 2014 (90 pts)Concha y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Carmenère 2014 (88+ pts)

The mini-theme compares Syrah and Shiraz, two grapes that are identical but can yield very different styles of wines. Personally, I prefer the Syrah style of wine, which tends to be savoury, earthy, and meaty with black pepper nuances instead of the riper, jammy style of Shiraz found so often in Australia. In this thematic, there are eight wines listed and two made my list of wine recommendations - both are Syrah.

Creekside Iconoclast Syrah 2014 (89 pts)

From the rest of the release among red wines, the Forca Real is an unoaked blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, while the Family Tree Red is a blend of 33% Syrah, 29% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Baco Noir. The Schild GMS is a blend of 52% Grenache, 24% Mourvèdre, and 24% Shiraz. Also, the California Cab contains 9% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot. Single varietal wines include the Crianza that's made with Tempranillo, and the wine from Lazio that is made using a grape you've probable never heard of - Cesanese.

Among my white wine picks, the Creekside Iconoclast is a blend of 74% Semillon and 26% Sauvignon Blanc, while the Anselmi is an off-dry wine made with Garganega. The rest are all single varietals. For sweet wine lovers, you'll want to check out the Gewürztraminer or the Riesling from Ontario. For those who want just a hint of sweetness, look to the Riesling from Austria, or the Semillon from Australia.

Riverview Angelina’s Reserve Gewurztraminer 2014 (88 pts)Flat Rock Riesling 2015 (88 pts)

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release. Cheers!

Red Wine:

  • DOMAINE FORCA REAL CÔTES DU ROUSSILLON VILLAGES 2013 - AP, Roussillon, France (#494161) (XD) - $17.95
  • HENRY OF PELHAM FAMILY TREE RED 2014 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#247882) (XD) - $18.95
  • CASALE DEL GIGLIO CESANESE 2014 - IGT Lazio Rosso, Italy (#498188) (XD) - $18.95
  • CONCHA Y TORO MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA CARMENÈRE 2014 - Peumo, Rapel Valley, Chile (#169862) (XD) - $19.95  reviewed here
  • SCHILD ESTATE GRENACHE/MOURVÈDRE/SHIRAZ 2014 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (#108183) (XD) - $19.95
  • SEÑORÍO DE P. PECIÑA CRIANZA 2012 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#313726) (XD) - $21.95
  • CREEKSIDE ICONOCLAST SYRAH 2014 - VQA St. David’s Bench, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada (#471797) (XD) - $24.95  reviewed here
  • MAISON ROCHE DE BELLENE VIEILLES VIGNES CÔTE DE NUITS-VILLAGES 2007 - AC, Burgundy, France (#487447) (XD) - $29.95
  • FESS PARKER SYRAH 2013 - Santa Barbara County, California, USA (#942136) (XD) - $34.95
  • SILVERADO VINEYARDS ESTATE GROWN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#111880) (XD) - $61.95

White Wine:

  • RIVERVIEW ANGELINA’S RESERVE GEWURZTRAMINER 2014 - VQA Niagara River, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada (#511642) (M) - $17.15  reviewed here
  • FLAT ROCK RIESLING 2015 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#043281) (M) - $17.95  reviewed here
  • MARGAN FAMILY HUNTER VALLEY SÉMILLON 2016 - Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia (#493338) (D) - $19.95
  • REDSTONE CHARDONNAY 2013 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#398966) (XD) - $19.95
  • DOMÄNE WACHAU TERRASSEN FEDERSPIEL RIESLING 2015 - DAC Wachau, Austria (#491902) (D) - $21.95
  • CREEKSIDE ICONOCLAST SÉMILLON/SAUVIGNON BLANC 2015 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#520627) (XD) - $22.50
  • 2027 WISMER VINEYARD FOX CROFT BLOCK CHARDONNAY 2014 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#421362) (XD) - $22.95  reviewed here
  • ANSELMI CAPITEL CROCE 2015 - IGT Veneto, Italy (#966655) (D) - $26.95  FSE
  • VILLA MARIA SOUTHERN CLAYS SINGLE VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2016 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#447474) (XD) - $29.95  reviewed here
  • LA CHABLISIENNE CHABLIS BEAUROY 1ER CRU 2014 - AC, Burgundy, France (#490110) (XD) - $34.95  FSE
Villa Maria Southern Clays Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (90 pts)

Sparkling Wine:

  • VINELAND ESTATES SPARKLING PINOT MEUNIER RESERVE 2015 - Charmat method, VQA Ontario, Canada (#520700) (D) - $30.00

Fortified:

  • DELAFORCE VINTAGE PORT 2003 - DOP, Portugal (#459784) (S) - $77.95


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  • Date publishedMonday, July 24, 2017

Niagara Icewine Festival Review 2017 - Day 2 of 2

Legends Estates Terroir Semillon with Creamy Canadian Lobster Bisque
On , I visited Niagara for the second weekend in a row to partake in Icewine and food pairings during the Niagara Icewine Festival. All of the wineries visited on this day were located in Twenty Valley. You can read all about my visit to Niagara Wine Country from the here.

The first stop on this day was at Legends Estates Winery for a delicious Creamy Canadian Lobster Bisque that was paired with a choice of their 2013 Legends Estates Terroir Semillon ($13.25, 87 pts, #400366) or 2013 Legends Estates Chardonnay Reserve ($18.95, 89 pts). I opted for the Semillon based on a recommendation at the winery, as well as the fact that I tasted (and very much enjoyed) their Chardonnay the last time I visited Legends Estates. The Semillon was mostly tropical and citrus in nature with just a hint of savoury characters, but turned very savoury and smoky, in a pleasant way, when paired with the thick and savoury Bisque. Moreover, the fresh acidity in the wine helped balance the creamy texture of the soup. Overall, this was a very intriguing pairing with the wine changing immensely when paired with the Lobster Bisque.

At Vieni Estates, which was our second stop of the day, we had the option of a "The Terrific Two" Layered Flakie Custard Pastry paired with the 2011 Vieni Vidal Icewine ($39.95, 375 mL, 89 pts) or a Triple Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti paired with 2014 Vidal Sparkling Icewine. Since I was there with my wife, we got one of each food item and I opted for the Vidal Icewine while my wife got the non-alcoholic red berry fruit juice. Surprisingly, the Icewine paired quite well with the Biscotti, bringing out the nutty notes in the nicely maturing Icewine. Very few producers make Sparkling Icewine, so I tasted it at the end and was quite pleased with the quality of the sparkling dessert wine - a wine review is provided below.

Vieni Vidal Icewine with Triple Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti and Layered Flakie Custard PastryRockway Vidal Icewine with Salted Caramel Peanut Brittle

Picard's Salted Caramel Peanut BrittleThe third stop of the day was Rockway Vineyards, where we enjoyed a very decadent Salted Caramel Peanut Brittle created by Chef Stefan Olk, and paired with their 2013 Rockway Vidal Icewine. This indulgence was for those with a sweet tooth. On its own, the Brittle was intensely sweet, while the salt and peanuts added some much needed nuance to balance out the sweetness. The wine was also very sweet and paired very well with the Brittle as the sweetness levels from both the wine and Brittle were evenly matched, while the Brittle also brought out some very nice caramel notes in the wine. Enjoyable pairing for sure, but you must have a sweet tooth as a prerequisite.

Our final stop of the afternoon was at Hernder Estate Wines, where I always seem to have an unusual experience - and this time was no different. I won't go into any details as things were rectified quickly, and some of the wines I tasted were top-notch. The pairing here was a Vanilla Bean Cake Pop engulfed in a robe of Dark Chocolate and topped with Gold Leaf Sprinkles, and paired with their 2013 Hernder Cabernet Franc Icewine ($50.05, 375 mL, 89 pts). The Cake Pop was fresh and juicy and had just the right amount of sweetness to balance the sweet cherry, strawberry jam flavours in the wine. Berries and chocolate always make for a delightful pairing.

Hernder Cabernet Franc Icewine with Vanilla Bean Cake Pop

This concludes my report from my visit to Niagara during the annual Icewine Festival. Wine reviews of my favourite wines tasted on this day are provided below. If you're interested in purchasing any of these wines, please contact the winery as none of these wines are available at he LCBO.

Tasting Notes:

LEGENDS ESTATES RESERVE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2010 - Lizak Vineyard, VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (XD) - $16.95
Ripe stone and orchard fruit aromas of very good intensity that continue on the palate, joined by grapefruit flavours. Still on the dry side, and balanced with fresh acidity on a medium-bodied frame. Finish length is very good. Score: 88 pts

Legends Estates Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2010 (88 pts)Legends Estates Reserve Shiraz 2012 (89 pts)

LEGENDS ESTATES RESERVE SHIRAZ 2012 - Lizak Vineyard, VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (XD) - $23.95
The nose is highly aromatic with meaty, savoury notes, along with touches of sour cherry. It's full-bodied with smooth, velvety tannins and more meaty/savoury flavours. Very good finish length. It has mouth-watering acids and some structure for ageing, but this is quite enjoyable now. Score: 89 pts

LEGENDS ESTATES VIDAL ICEWINE 2006 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (S) (375 mL) - $49.90
Highly aromatic and very appealing with aromas of peach, apricot, honeysuckle and some sweet vanilla notes. On the palate, it's medium-full bodied and thick, but well-balanced by vibrant acids. Lovely mature burnt sugar and caramel flavours lead the way on the palate, followed by peach, pineapple, and apricot. Excellent finish length. Enjoy now or hold a few years. Score: 91 pts

Legends Estates Vidal Icewine 2006 (91 pts)

VIENI CABERNET FRANC PRIVATE RESERVE 2012 - VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (XD) - $22.95
Medium-high aromas that are herbaceous in nature, followed by spice and toasty oak (from 18 months in oak) and ripe red & black fruits. It's full-bodied on the palate with nice aroma replays and has a slightly chalky mouthfeel from the medium-firm tannins. Acids are very good and finishes long. Score: 89 pts

Vieni Cabernet Franc Private Reserve 2012 (89 pts)Vieni Pinot Noir Private Reserve 2012 (89+ pts)

VIENI PINOT NOIR PRIVATE RESERVE 2012 - VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (XD) - $39.95
Medium+ intensity nose offers a lot of dark fruit notes - berry, cherry and plum - along with earth and sweet spice notes. It's medium-bodied with earthy, beetroot, black cherry and savoury flavours framed by good acidity. There's some structure to the tannins. Finishes long. Score: 89+ pts

VIENI SPARKLING VIDAL ICEWINE 2014 - VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (S) (375 mL) - $49.95
Rare to find, this has medium+ intensity aromas consisting of apple, green mango, tropical fruits, and pineapple with some tartness. It is sweet on the full-ish palate, with very nice aroma replays and hints of honey. Nice bubbles, juicy, and finishing long. Score: 89+ pts

Vieni Sparkling Vidal Icewine 2014 (89+ pts)

ROCKWAY VINEYARDS PINOT NOIR 2014 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#498790) (XD) - $19.95
The nose is slightly candied with red cherry, strawberry, beetroot and earth aromas of medium+ intensity. It's light-to-medium bodied with slightly dusty and young tannins. The palate is dry with with nice red fruit, black cherry and black plum flavours, and very subtle oak nuances. Acids are very good and the finish is long and juicy. Coming to VINTAGES on August 8th. Score: 88 pts

Rockway Vineyards Pinot Noir 2014 (88 pts)

ROCKWAY VINEYARDS VIDAL ICEWINE 2013 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (S) (375 mL) - $34.95
Medium-high aromatics offers lemon, pineapple, and a touch of tart citrus notes. The medium+ body is luscious with balanced acids and very nice aroma replays along with hints of caramel flavours. Long finishing. Score: 90 pts

Rockway Vineyards Vidal Icewine 2013 (90 pts)Rockway Vineyards Riesling Icewine 2013 (91 pts)

ROCKWAY VINEYARDS RIESLING ICEWINE 2013 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (S) (200 mL) - $29.95
Highly aromatic on the nose, showing lovely mineral, petrol and honeysuckle notes. The palate is sweet, but is balanced by bracing acidity. The aromas come through on the palate and are joined by lemon citrus, orange, apricot and tropical fruit flavours. Excellent finish length. Delicious! Score: 91 pts

HERNDER RIESLING RESERVE 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (XD) - $12.95
Maturing well, this has a medium-high intensity nose that's essentially dry with mineral-driven aromas of petrol, slate and lime. The palate is more of the same with lemon/lime and mineral with just a kiss of sweetness. Delicate acids provide freshness and the finish length is medium-long. Very good value! Score: 88

Hernder Riesling Reserve 2010 (88 pts)

HERNDER DEEP ROOTS CABERNET FRANC RESERVE 2012 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (XD) - $39.95
This refined, elegant wine has medium-high intensity aromas of dark berry, dark fruit, oak, leafy, along with touches of green, herbaceous notes. The palate is medium-full bodied with nicely extracted fruit offering complex aroma replays and supple tannins that are still a bit tight. It has very good acidity and excellent finish length. Age this another 2 years and drink over the 5-7 years. Score: 91 pts

Hernder Deep Roots Cabernet Franc Reserve 2012 (91 pts)Hernder Deep Roots Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2012 (91 pts)

HERNDER DEEP ROOTS CABERNET SAUVIGNON RESERVE 2012 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (XD) - $44.95
The nose seems a bit shy and offers white pepper, cassis, black currant, and evergreen aromas of medium-high intensity. It is medium-full bodied on the palate with flavours of evergreen, currant, and cassis, accented by oak elements. It has smooth, refined tannins that are supported by mouth-watering acids. Long finishing. A powerful Niagara Cab with years of enjoyment ahead. Score: 91 pts


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  • Date publishedSaturday, April 8, 2017

Domaine Tournon Mathilda Shiraz 2011 (Australia) - Wine Review

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

Domaine Tournon Mathilda Shiraz 2011 (90 pts)

Tasting Note:

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


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  • Date publishedTuesday, June 28, 2016

Top Wines from Savour Australia Wine Tasting - May 2016

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

Tasting Notes:

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

Cirillo 1850 Ancestor Semillon 2011 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (92 pts)

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

Hollick Ravenswood Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 - Coonawarra, South Australia (92 pts)

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

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

Stonier Chardonnay 2015 - Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia (90+ pts)

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



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  • Date publishedSunday, January 10, 2016

Plunkett Fowles Stone Dwellers Shiraz 2008 (Australia) - Wine Review

delicious red wine was purchased nearly 4 years ago and was the Wine of the Month from the February 4, 2012 VINTAGES Release.

As luck would have it, the 2013 vintage of this wine will be available in the upcoming January 23rd VINTAGES Release.

Plunkett Fowles Stone Dwellers Shiraz 2008 - Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria, Australia (89 pts)

Tasting Note:

PLUNKETT FOWLES STONE DWELLERS SHIRAZ 2008 - Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria, Australia (#265967) (XD) - $19.95
Screw cap. Medium-to-high intensity nose featuring stewed fruits, blackberry, dried herbs, black pepper spice and earthy tones. It's full-bodied with sweet, integrated tannins and very nice aroma replays joined by hints of violet and eucalyptus notes. Rush of fresh, juicy acidity mid-palate. Finishes long and earthy. This lovely Aussie Shiraz should continue to drink well over the next 2-3 years. Will be enjoyed with homemade chicken burgers. Score: 89 pts Jason Solanki


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  • Date publishedTuesday, March 10, 2015

Sula Vineyards & Fratelli Indian (Nashik) Wine Reviews

On my recent trip to India, I had plans to visit India's Wine Capital - Nashik. Located in the state of Maharashtra, less than 200 km northeast of Mumbai - about 2.5 hours by car - an overnight trip to the region was in the cards. Unfortunately, those plans had to be cancelled.

Getting tired of drinking India's most popular alcoholic beverage - Whisky - I ended up purchasing a bottle of Sula's Chenin Blanc from an outlet within a local grocery store in Mumbai. Knowing how much I loved wine, my Uncle also purchased two other Indian wines from a liquor store nearby in Dadar East.

This was my first time tasting Indian wines. All of the wines below are on the low-end of the price scale, and it shows. Here are wine reviews of three Indian wines I tasted while in India, with the Chenin Blanc and the Shiraz blend relatively quite enjoyable.


SULA VINEYARDS CHENIN BLANC 2014 - Nashik, India (#) (M) - Rs. 550 ($11 CAD)
Screw cap. Elegant aromas of medium intensity with sweet notes of pineapple, honey, elderflower and lime citrus notes. Palate is medium bodied and medium-dry sweet (i.e. medium sweet) with lemon/lime, floral, honeysuckle flavours. Lacking a bit of acidity with a medium+ length finish that tapers off into the dry zone with a slight bitterness. Tasted February 24, 2015. Score: 86 pts

Wine Review of 2014 Sula Vineyards Chenin Blanc from Nashik, India (86 pts)

SULA VINEYARDS SATORI MERLOT MALBEC - Nashik, India (D) - Rs. 520 ($10.40 CAD)
Manufactured July 2013, so I assume 2013 vintage. Screw cap. Medium intensity nose with grapey, dried red fruit, raisin, black cherry, sweet ripe red fruit aromas. Integrated, rounded tannins, Palate is sweetish with black fruit, dried fruit, raisiny flavours. Balanced acids, while tannins are rounded and integrated well. Average length finish, Easy drinking wine for those that prefer sweeter red wines. Personally, I didn't feel any "Satori" or sudden enlightenment. Tasted February 28, 2015. Score: 83 pts

Wine Review of Sula Vineyards Satori Merlot Malbec from Nashik, India (83 pts)

FRATELLI CLASSIC SHIRAZ - Nashik, India (XD) - Rs 485 ($9.70 CAD)
Manufactured March 2014, so I assume 2014 vintage. An unspecified Shiraz blend (2013 vintage was 80/20 Shiraz/Cab Franc.) Screw cap. Medium+ intensity aromas featuring black pepper, plum and milk chocolate aromas, along with hints of raisin. Medium bodied, sweet ripe fruits, red & blue fruits, and subtle oak spice, milk chocolate flavours. Tannins are refined and smooth, while acids are balanced. Medium length finish that is smooth, yet a touch hot with slightly bitter chocolate and dried fruit notes. Quaffable and easy drinking. Tasted February 25, 2015. Score: 86 pts

Wine Review of Fratelli Classic Shiraz from Nashik, India (86 pts)


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  • Date publishedTuesday, November 11, 2014

Creekside Estate Winery Wine Tasting

Wine reviews of various wines from Creekside Estate Winery
I received these delicious wine samples from Creekside Estate Winery recently and opened them up a couple of weeks ago on a crisp, Fall .

Creekside has been making premium wine since 1997, when owner Laura McCain pursued a passion for wine by purchasing a 15-acre vineyard and winery on Fourth Avenue in Jordan. The darlings of their portfolio at the time were Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz - neither grape particularly known for doing well in Niagara during this period.

The year 1999 marked the first of several major face lifts to the site, including the addition of shiny new stainless steel tanks with temperature control jackets, a brand new crush pad, and a pneumatic press. In 2000, an underground barrel cellar for fermentation and aging was added to the site.

Growing consumer demand meant more grapes were required to produce more wine. Creekside purchased a 50-acre vineyard site on St. David's Bench and named it the Queenston Road Vineyard (QRV). This site now produces some of their best wines, including their award-winning Syrah that I tasted at the winery in September.

Due to growing popularity over the years, a brand new retail store and covered outdoor deck was built in 2008. During this time, new labels, packaging and website were all face-lifted and are the current look-and-feel that you see today.

Creekside's slogan is "Serious wine from an irreverent bunch". After visiting them last month and my wine reviews below, I can agree that their wines are serious.


Tasting Notes:
CREEKSIDE PINOT GRIGIO 2012 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#083196) (XD) - $14.95
Screw cap. Medium+ intensity aromas with lime, peach, apple and leesy notes. Dry, medium-bodied palate with crisp, lively acids and pleasing aroma replays. Crisp, medium-length finish that is slightly bitter and tart. LCBO General List and widely available. Score: 87 pts

Wine review of 2012 Creekside Pinot Grigio from VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada

CREEKSIDE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2013 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#620724) (XD) - $13.95
Screw cap. Elegant, medium intensity nose showing gooseberry, kiwi, guava and lime aromas. It's medium-weighted and echos the aromas, along with some greenness on the flavour profile. Balanced acids. Tropical fruit & lime flavours on the medium+ length on the finish. Well balanced overall. LCBO General List and widely available. Score: 88 pts

Wine review of 2013 Creekside Sauvignon Blanc from VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada

ICONOCLAST SAUVIGNON BLANC 2013 - VQA Creek Shores, Ontario, Canada (#) (XD) - $17.95
Screw cap. Nose seems somewhat closed but shows mandarine orange, guava, kiwi and some earthy aromas. Medium+ bodied and fleshy palate with lemon/lime, green leaf and mineral flavours. Has a fine seam of acidity that dances on the long, dry finish. Score: 88 pts

Wine review of 2013 Iconoclast Sauvignon Blanc from VQA Creek Shores, Ontario, Canada

CREEKSIDE CABERNET SHIRAZ 2012 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#305300) (XD)  - $16.95
Comprised of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon and 34% Shiraz. Screw cap. Lifted nose featuring smoky, meaty, peppercorn and cassis aromas, Some distinct barnyard notes as it opens up in the glass. Medium-full bodied palate with dark, brooding tannins and mouth-watering acids. Flavours of blackberry, black cherry, raspberry, black pepper, vanillan oak and cocoa. Drinkable now and can be enjoyed over the next 3-4 years. LCBO General List and widely available. Score: 88+ pts

Wine review of 2012 Creekside Cabernet Shiraz from VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada


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  • Date publishedSaturday, September 20, 2014

Celebrating Canada Braai Day 2014

Canada Braai Day
Today, , is the 2nd Annual Canada Braai Day.

Braai is the Afrikaans term for barbecue. Not only is braai a popular pastime in South Africa, it is a national day of celebration. Every September 24th, South Africans celebrate . At the core of this public holiday is braai - where South Africans across all cultures light fires and have great feasts. Tonight, I will be enjoying these two popular South African beverages to celebrate Braai Day in Canada, both of which are readily available at the LCBO.

(A sensuous Sosaties lamb feast off the barbecue was planned, but unfortunately had to be cancelled due to unforeseen events. Recipe provided below.)


Tasting Notes:
SAVANNA DRY PREMIUM CIDER - South Africa (#379818) - $9.95 / 4pk
All sorts of apple aromas - caramelized, apple sauce, ripe apple juice. Mild apple flavours on the palate. Finely balanced mousse with a short, crisp finish. 5% abv. Available in 4 x 330 mL packs.

TWO OCEANS SHIRAZ 2013 - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#699249) (D) - $10.25
A refreshed, and much classier looking label compared to the last time I had this wine. Screw cap. Medium+ intensity aromas with smoky oak jumping out of the glass and giving way to blackberry, meaty, blackberry and cherry notes. It's medium-bodied on the palate with flavours of black cherry, vanillan spice, and roasted coffee. Balanced, refreshing acids and a medium-length, dark roast coffee and vanillan flavoured finish. Easy drinking, BBQ wine. Score: 86 pts

Celebrating Canada Braai Day with Savanna Premium Cider and 2013 Two Oceans Shiraz from South Africa


Sosaties Recipe (makes 12 skewers) provided by Chef Master Martin Moore of Durbanville Hills Cellar 

Ingredients:
  • 1.5kg leg of lamb, deboned and cut into 25mm cubes
  • 2 medium onions peeled and halved lengthwise, then blanched for 5 minutes;
  • Refresh in ice water and layers separated
  • 2/3 cup dried apricots, soaked in onion water

Curried Marinade:
  • 4 large onions, sliced
  • 3 teaspoons mild curry powder
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 3 cups vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 tablespoons apricot jam or 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • Pinch of pepper
  • Pinch of chili powder

Method:
Marinate meat in curried marinade overnight. Sauté onions in heated cooking oil until translucent. Add curry powder and fry for approximately 2 minutes. Add all remaining ingredients, simmer and set aside to cool. Thread the skewers, alternating the meat, apricots and onion pieces. Grill slowly over hot coals.


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  • Date publishedWednesday, September 3, 2014

KWV Wines Tasting with Izele van Bierk

Izele van Bierk, Winemaker at KWV
On , I had the pleasure of attending the KWV Wines tasting at the iYellow Wine Cave. Coming all the way from South Africa to attend and host this special event was winemaker at KWV Wines - Izele van Bierk.

KWV (Ko-operatieve Wijnbouwers Verenigingvan Zuid Afrika) Wines is one of South Africa's largest wine & spirits producers. It has a long and rich history dating back to 1918 - the same year Nelson Mandela was born - when it was first registered as a company. KWV was formed with the aim of stabilising, supporting, and structuring a young, struggling industry.

KWV Wines - Proud Pioneers
In 1924, the KWV Act is passed in parliament and certain administrative responsibilities as well as the position of sole exporter and importer of surplus alcohol are handed to the association. In 1949, the Roodeberg brand of wine of born and is now one of KWV's most celebrated brands.

KWV also played a vital role in establishing the South African Brandy Foundation in 1984.

In all, there were 10 wines and one Brandy available for tasting. Below, you will find wine reviews of a few wines that I enjoyed on this night. Included among them is one of Izele's favourites - the Roodeberg Red, which I poured at a party recently and it went over really well with guests.


Tasting Notes:
KWV CATHEDRAL CELLAR BRUT MÉTHODE CAP CLASSIQUE SPARKLING 2010 - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#296426) (D) - $16.95
Cap Classique is South Africa's designation for sparkling wines made using the Traditional Method. Blend of 78% Chardonnay and 22% Pinot Noir and highly aromatic nose showing toastiness, lees and bread. Medium-bodied with a hint of sweetness and flavours of green apple and lime cordial. Fine mousse and finishing medium-long. In Vintages with high availability. Score: 88+ pts

KWV CATHEDRAL CELLAR CHARDONNAY 2013 - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#328559) (XD) - $15.95
Low nose featuring butter, apple and orchard fruits. Medium-bodied with a chalky texture on the palate. Flavours mimic the aromas and are joined by minerality, toasty oak and spice notes. Bright acids and long finishing. Quite easy drinking. In Vintages with high availability. Score: 88 pts

KWV ROODEBERG RED 2012 - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#007187) (XD) - $12.45
Blend of 61% Cab Sauv, 11% Shiraz, 10% Merlot and 18% Other. Medium intensity aromas of blackberry, cherry and dark fruits. Medium-bodied and lush on the concentrated palate with crunchy tannins. Pepper, toasty oak, dark cherry and plum flavour profile. Made in a crowd-pleasing style and can be cellared 2-3 years. LCBO General List product and quite available. Score: 88+ pts

Wine Review of 2012 KWV Roodeberg Red from WO Western Cape, South Africa

KWV THE MENTORS CHENIN BLANC 2012 - WO Coastal Region, South Africa (#) (XD) - $24.95
Highly aromatic with leesy, herbal and slight earthy nose. Low-to-medium bodied palate with refreshingly dry, lime, lemon peel and some mineral flavours. Chalky texture with mouth-watering acids. Excellent finish that is long and smooth. Score: 91 pts

Wine Review of 2012 KWV The Mentors Chenin Blanc from WO Coastal Region, South Africa

KWV THE MENTORS CANVAS 2011 - WO Coastal Region, South Africa (#348839) (XD) - $24.95
Blend of 63% Shiraz, 18% Tempranillo, 10% Mourvèdre and 9% Grenache. Aromas are of medium intensity and feature peppercorn, blackberry, oak and hints of earth & barnyard. On the palate, it`s full-bodied with green pepper, earth, oak and sweet ripe fruit flavours. Mouth-watering acids and smooth, integrated tannins that ride the long finish. Score: 90 pts

Wine Review of 2011 KWV The Mentors Canvas from WO Coastal Region, South Africa

KWV PAARL CAPE RUBY - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#028951) (S) - $9.95
Non-Vintage port-style wine that offers medium+ intensity aromas with prune, dried fig, caramel and nutty notes. On the palate, it's medium-bodied and very sweet with flavours of oak spice, caramel and nut. Finish is long, spiced and a touch hot. A good, everyday Port-style wine that is part of LCBO General List and widely available Score: 88 pts

Wine Review of KWV Paarl Cape Ruby from WO Western Cape, South Africa

iYellow Wine Cave


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  • Date publishedSaturday, May 10, 2014

Inception Deep Layered Red 2011 (South Africa) - Wine Review

Wine review of 2011 Inception Deep Layered Red from WO Western Cape, South Africa
Tonight's red wine is a new wine that is about to be launched across Canada in the coming days. This wine will be launched first in Canada before being made available in other markets. I was given the opportunity to sample it prior to its official launch at the LCBO in Ontario.

The Shiraz and Mourvèdre grapes were handpicked for this blend. All three grapes were fermented in stainless steel tanks, then matured for 12-14 months in oak barrels.

Wine label fans will want to take a closer look at the intricate artwork, which is quite interesting (click on the photo below for a close look). Here's my wine review of what's inside the bottle...

INCEPTION DEEP LAYERED RED 2011 - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#369967) (D) - $13.90
Wine label of 2011 Inception Deep Layered Red from WO Western Cape, South Africa
Tasting Note:
Screw cap. Blend of 81% Shiraz, 10% Petit Verdot, and 9% Mourvèdre. Medium intensity aromas consisting of black pepper, blackberry, clove spice, oak, and chocolate powder. Medium-bodied on the palate with sweet, ripe, lush and fruit-forward with blackberry/blueberry flavours, along with mocha, cherry and spice notes in support. It's definitely on the sweet side (off-dry), with refined tannins and good acids. Medium-length finish. This has good crowd appeal would be suitable for parties. Fans of Yellow Tail can look here for a suitable alternate. Score: 87 pts


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