Nov. 24 LCBO Wine Picks: Our Finest

In the next Vintages release, the LCBO brings out "Our Finest Wines & Spirits for the Holidays" on Saturday, November 24. To me, this means expensive wines, and there are lots of them in this release. Many would impress as nice gifts for the holidays.

Of the 26 wines that are featured, we've got a few reds that I believe you will enjoy. The Elderton Shiraz is one to enjoy now or cellar for up to 10 years. The Tuscan Ornellaia is a blend of 55% Cab Sauv, 22% Merlot, 21% Cab Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot and needs at least 2 years in the cellar, and can be enjoyed up to 15 years later. If you'd like to add something to your cellar and not look at it for at least 15 years, you'll be interested in the big Napa Cabernet Sauvignon from Dunn Vineyards. Another big Napa red that needs some time in the cellar is the Joseph Phelps Insignia, albeit not as much time as the Dunn. The Insignia is mostly Cab Sauv (89%), with some Petit Verdot (7%) and Malbec (4%) and should cellared for at least 6 years, and up to 26 years. In whites, there are two fabulous Chardonnays - one by Le Clos Jordanne that's from our own backyard, and the other by Philippe Colin from Burgundy. Finally, it would be difficult to leave a Dom off this list.

From the rest of the release, the Villa Symposia is a blend consisting of 70% Syrah, 25% Carignan, 5% Grenache/Mourvèdre. From the fabulous 2010 Southern Rhône vintage is the Clos de Sixte Lirac that is made using 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah and 15% Mourvèdre. Interestingly, the Volpaia is 90% Sangioveto (aka Sangiovese) and 10% Merlot/Syrah.

Something to stock away for the first sign of spring is the off-dry Featherstone Rosé, which is almost a 50/50 split between Gamay and Cab Franc. Also, if you purchased the 2008 C.H. Berres Riesling Kabinett from the May 26 release, and still have it, then try the 2009 version. For Kabinetts, the 2008 vintage in Mosel was exceptional, while the 2009 vintage was very good. It would be interesting to taste the same wine, different vintage, side-by-side and see the differences. Enjoy!

Red Wine:

• LOMOND SYRAH 2008 - WO Cape Agulhas, South Africa (#146464) (XD) - $18.95
• BALLAST STONE SHIRAZ 2009 - McLaren Vale, South Australia (#167064) (D) - $18.95
• PASCUAL TOSO RESERVE BARRACAS VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009 - Mendoza, Argentina (#083337) (XD) - $19.95
• VILLA SYMPOSIA L’EQUILIBRE 2008 - AP Languedoc, Midi, France (#298620) (XD) - $20.95
• DOMAINE GRAND VENEUR CLOS DE SIXTE LIRAC 2010 - AC, Rhône, France (#076349) (XD) - $22.95
• VOLPAIA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2009 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#953828) (XD) - $23.95
• CICCHITTI EDICIÓN LIMITADA MALBEC 2008 - Mendoza, Argentina (#260893) (XD) - $24.95
• MOUNT LANGI GHIRAN CLIFF EDGE SHIRAZ 2006 - Victoria, Australia (#287235) (XD) - $28.95
• HARDYS HRB D641 HERITAGE RESERVE BIN SHIRAZ 2007 - McLaren Vale & Clare Valley, South Australia (#289934) (D) - $35.95 my review
• ELDERTON COMMAND SINGLE VINEYARD SHIRAZ 2008 - Barossa, South Australia (#716142) (D) - $89.95
• DUNN VINEYARDS HOWELL MOUNTAIN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2008 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#193763) (XD) - $99.95
• ORNELLAIA 2009 - DOC Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscany, Italy (#722470) (XD) - $189.95
• JOSEPH PHELPS INSIGNIA 2008 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#710400) (D) - $224.95

White Wine:

• C.H. BERRES ÜRZIGER WÜRZGARTEN RIESLING KABINETT 2009 - Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany (#207274) (M) - $19.95
• PEWSEY VALE RIESLING 2011 - Eden Valley, South Australia (#686600) (D) - $19.95
• CATENA CHARDONNAY 2011 - Mendoza, Argentina (#918805) (XD) - $19.95
• RODNEY STRONG RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2009 - Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, USA (#210039) (D) - $34.95
• LE CLOS JORDANNE LE GRAND CLOS CHARDONNAY 2009 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Twenty Mile Bench, Ontario, Canada (#034561) (XD) - $65.00
• PHILIPPE COLIN CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET LES CHAUMÉES 1ER CRU 2008 - AC, Burgundy, France (#299933) (XD) - $69.95

Icewine:

• KONZELMANN VIDAL ICEWINE 2009 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#167866) (S) (200 mL) - $24.95
• HENRY OF PELHAM CABERNET ICEWINE 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#672402) (S) (200 mL) - $39.95
• STRATUS RIESLING ICEWINE 2008 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#056671) (S) (200 mL) - $39.95

Champagne:

• DOM PÉRIGNON BRUT ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE 2000 - AC, France (#091777) (XD) - $299.95

Rosé:

• FEATHERSTONE ROSÉ 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#117861) (D) - $14.95 my review

The rest of the wines from this release can be found here.

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Gourmet Food and Wine Expo 2012

On Thursday, November 15, I attended the Gourmet Food and Wine Expo VIP Preview Night. I arrived just after the show opened at 6 p.m. and the place was buzzing with lengthy lineups for sample tickets. Once I got upstairs to the main pavilion, I noticed the first few aisles were busy, while the rest of the venue was relatively quiet. I quickly seeked and found one of the many booths to purchase sample tickets - 1 sheet of 20 tickets cost $20 - and fortunately, this line was short.

My first stop was the Dreissigacker booth represented by K&S Wine Imports in the Fine Wine pavilion located in the northern part of the hall. I am regretting tasting only two of the lower-end Dreissigacker Rieslings as both were outstanding wines (full detailed reviews will be posted later). I can only imagine how good their top-tier wines are! Must check out if you enjoy German Rieslings! It's a shame these aren't available at the LCBO.

The next stop was Coyote's Run, also in the Fine Wine section, to taste their new Meritage. While it was good, it definitely needs at least 2 more years before it's drinkable. By now, it was time for me to head over to the Canadian Cheese Tasting.

This year's cheese tasting definitely seemed to have less interest than last year. Perhaps it's because they didn't serve any wine to pair with the cheese? Regardless, I had already tasted 2 of the cheeses on the menu previously. Upper Canada's Comfort Cream is a soft cheese that I tasted last month, while the Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar is a favourite of mine and was tasted back in July. The other delicious cheeses we tasted were the 14 Arpents semi-soft, and the Ménestrel firm and Aged Farmhouse firm cheeses. The final cheese tasting was the Le Rassembleu (blue cheese) and this was quite different from other blue cheeses - it was firm and had very earthy/hay/manure aromas. On the palate, the blue cheese was more traditional in flavours dominated by saltiness.

Following the cheese, my mouth was feeling quite dry, so it was definitely time to whet my taste buds with some wine. Walking around, I eventually found myself at the Cornerstone Estate Winery tasting quite a few wines from their expansive lineup. In case you didn't know, Cornerstone is also home to the 2012 Winemaker of the Year - Andrzej Lipinski. His influence is definitely felt in these wines as they were all above-average. The Gewurztraminer and the Chenin Blanc were my favourite. Definitely taste the Icewines if you visit this booth!

Next, I found myself at the Trialto booth to taste a big, primarily Merlot-based '09 Bordeaux. It's very nice! I love Malbec, and the Catena version at the Trialto booth also impressed me.

Over the past year, I learned that the Georgian region is the oldest wine-producing region in the world - going back 8,000 years. I had never tasted wine from this country before, and shows like this are a great opportunity to sample wines that you might not otherwise be adventurous and purchase. Georgia is known for making sweet red and white wines. I tasted one of each Thursday night and both are quite the experience. Both were different, but the Qvevris (white wine) was definitely more pleasurable for my palate.

Back to more traditional wine for my taste buds, I found myself at a French wine booth. A couple of low-end reds from Antonin Rodet were tasted, but I was left quite underwhelmed by both offerings. By now, I felt like I needed something to nosh on to get me through the last hour or so. I wandered around and bumped into a few friendly faces. One friend told me about lobster rolls that were located just around the corner from her booth. At 5 tickets, they were expensive and a bit small. But, they were delicious! Thanks for the suggestion, Lindsay!

I wandered around some more and eventually found my way to the WineAlign booth to chat with a few colleagues and other winos. Also got to meet John Szabo. While there, it was suggested I check out Hidden Bench Vineyards & Winery. I believe this was the first time I had tasted anything from Hidden Bench and I came away with only good feelings. Their Riesling is very good, while their Terroir Cache needs more time to settle. Soon after, the announcers started telling everyone to close shop and get out, politely of course. =)

The show continues to run today and Sunday, and I hope your visit will be enjoyable as you wade through the hundreds of wines that will be poured. As mentioned earlier, full reviews of the wines I tasted will be published in a future post. Cheers!

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Falernia Reserva Syrah 2009 (Chile) - Wine Review

This very nice Syrah from Chile was purchased from the October 13 Vintages Release and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. If you're interested, this red wine is still available in the Vintages section at the LCBO.

FALERNIA RESERVA SYRAH 2009 - Elquí Valley, Chile (#208371) (XD) - $16.95

Tasting Note:
Intense aromas of blueberry, raspberry, vanilla and hints of coffee. Medium-bodied and fruit forward with peppercorn leading to long, smooth finish. Quite well-balanced with refined tannins. Tasty!

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Rosewood Estates Tasting at The Chef's House

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending the Rosewood Estates Winery Portfolio tasting hosted at The Chef's House in downtown Toronto. Rosewood is a family-operated winery and meadery based in Beamsville Bench.

Leading the Sales & Marketing for Rosewood and presenting the afternoon's event was Krystina Roman. Given Rosewood's family roots in beekeeping, everyone who works at winery is "blessed" with a bee nickname - Krystina is known as the "Social Bee". Also in attendance was then-winemaker Natalie Spytkowsky, who is doing a great job making naturally fermented table wine and mead.

I was very excited to be invited to this event as this was my very first time tasting mead (i.e. honey wine). This was also my first time tasting anything from Rosewood, and I came away quite impressed! I went into the tasting expecting mead to taste very much like Icewine, but much to my surprise, mead is not THAT sweet. It is still quite good, but is an acquired taste.

The tasting consisted of 10 mead and table wines paired with 4 tasting plates, plus a palate-cleansing mead cocktail after the 3rd tasting plate. The following are my reviews of the food & wine pairings:

ROSEWOOD HARVEST GOLD 2011 - Niagara Escarpment (#346767) (MD) - $15.00
Fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks. Raw, dry honey aromas. Off-dry on the palate with light floral and honey notes. Natural acidity takes over at mid-palate, while the finish is medium-long. This wine did pair well and was nicely balanced with the Chicken Tikka with Mango Chutney.

ROSEWOOD SÉMILLON 2011 - VQA Beamsville Bench (D) - $18.00
Clean and refreshing lime with hints of citrus aromas. Very bright acidity with aroma replays on the off-dry palate. Medium-length finish. Mouth was bursting of sweet lemons when paired with the White Fish Ceviche. Score: 87-88 pts

ROSEWOOD MIMA'S BLOCK RIESLING 2011 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench (D) - $18.00
Made from the Alsatian Riesling Clone 49 varietal (rare for Ontario) and named after their late Aunt Mima. Nose a bit closed, but nice aromas of white peach, apricot and lime. Lively acidity with more peach and tart lime on the palate. Off-dry with a medium-length finish. One of my favourites of the afternoon. It paired well with the fish as the acidity really cut into the lemon in the Ceviche. Score: 88-89 pts

ROSEWOOD SÜSSRESERVE RIESLING 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (MD) - $15.00
Made using the more traditional (for Ontario) Weis 21B Riesling varietal. Relatively closed nose with aromas of lime, mineral, petrol and honey. Medium-dry on the palate with lots of minerality and some petrol and honey notes. Good acidity, and very-well balanced. Finish is sweet (but not too sweet or cloying) and long. The flavours and acidity balanced really well with strong lemon flavours from the Ceviche. Score: 88 pts

ROSEWOOD PINOT NOIR RESERVE 2009 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench (XD) - $40.00
Naturally fermented. Made in an old-world style with intense aromas of smoke, red fruits, earth and cedar. Light-to-medium bodied and bright acidity with ripe red fruits, sour red cherries and beet root on the palate. Has grippy tannins and a short finish. My kind of Pinot! Score: 90 pts

ROSEWOOD PINOT NOIR RESERVE 2010 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench (XD) - $40.00
Smooth, pure red fruit aromas and lightly oaked/spice aromas & flavours. Medium-bodied palate also has forest floor and mushroom flavours. Very lively acidity and a medium-length finish. Score: 88 pts

It was a treat to taste both the '09 and '10 Pinot's side-by-side. While the 2010 was a great vintage for Niagara, I thought the 2009 expressed the varietal better - perhaps the natural fermentation of the '09 had something to do with it. The complex flavours of the '09 lent itself to be paired quite well with the Crispy Fried Mushroom Arancini.

ROSEWOOD CABERNET FRANC 2010 - VQA Beamsville Bench (XD) - $22.00
Very nice and intense herbal, dark fruit and jammy aromas. Full-bodied with gobs of dark fruits on the palate. Slightly herbaceous as well. Quite well-balanced with mouth-watering acidity and integrated tannins. Very smooth and finishing long, this red wine is food-friendly, but can be enjoyed by itself as well. Yum! Score: 90 pts

ROSEWOOD MERLOT 2010 - VQA Niagara Escarpment (#211896) (XD) - $22.00
Sweet core of fruit aromas along with mulberry and hints of cocoa. Bright acidity with raspberry, cocoa on the palate. Tannins are very well-integrated and has a delicious, long finish. Score: 89 pts

ROSEWOOD MERLOT RESERVE 2010 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench (XD) - $36.00
Naturally fermented for 3-1/2 weeks, this wine has aromas of sweet vanillan, oak, and a juicy core of raspberry with very nice replays on palate. Well-integrated tannins have some grip that should reward with 1-2 years ageing. Score: 90 pts

All of three of these wines tasted great on their own, and paired really well with the Braised Lamb Shank Tortellini. The best pairing of the three was the Merlot Reserve - it was beautiful - as the tannins were cut by the gamey flavours of the lamb, bringing fruit to the fore and balancing the flavours from the dish.

ROSEWOOD MEAD ROYALE 2008 - Select Barrel Aged (#296178) (M) (500 mL) - $15.00
Elegant springflower and honeysuckle aromas. Medium-bodied and well-balanced with honeysuckle and mead notes on palate. Nice acidity. Smooth and creamy mouthfeel on a medium-length finish. Paired well with the Thunder Oak Aged Gouda served with fresh honeycomb. This honey wine is a good introduction to mead and was released in the Nov. 10 Vintages release.

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Nov. 10 Wine Picks: Holidays + Piedmont

It's been a hectic couple of weeks, so I have to keep this short with the release just a couple of days away.

The next Vintages wine release will be in LCBO outlets on across Ontario on Saturday, November 10. The main feature in this release is on wines for the holidays, such as for festive family dinners and gift-giving. The secondary feature is on wines from Piedmont, and while nearly all of them are good-to-great, the one that stands out is the Giacosa because it is outstanding and available at a relatively decent price point.

It's safe to say that this release has been the best in months, with some very good buys across a wide range of price points. Whatever is your pleasure, I am sure you will enjoy something from my wine picks below. Cheers!


Red Wine:

• MONTGRAS QUATRO 2011 - Colchagua Valley, Chile (#050641) (XD) - $14.95
• VALLE LAS ACEQUIAS OAK MALBEC 2007 - Estate Don Angelino, Medrano, Mendoza, Argentina (#138412) (XD) - $15.95
• TILENUS ENVEJECIDO EN ROBLE 2007 - DO Bierzo, Spain (#297143) (XD) - $17.95
• PIERRE AMADIEU LA GRANGELIÈRE VACQUEYRAS 2010 - AC, Rhône, France (#076398) (XD) - $19.95
• TOSALET OLD VINES 2009 - DOCa Priorat, Spain (#292078) (XD) - $19.95
• ALEJANDRO FERNÁNDEZ TINTO PESQUERA CRIANZA 2009 - DO Ribera del Duero, Spain (#341461) (XD) - $26.95
• LE CLOS JORDANNE VILLAGE RESERVE PINOT NOIR 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#033894) (XD) - $30.00
• HARTENBERG SHIRAZ 2007 - WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#906289) (XD) - $34.95
• GIACOSA BASARIN VIGNA GIANMATÉ BARBARESCO 2007 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#291401) (XD) - $38.95
• DOMAINE TERLATO & CHAPOUTIER LIEU DIT MALAKOFF SHIRAZ 2010 - Pyrenees, Victoria, Australia (#290874) (XD) - $51.95
• LE VIEUX DONJON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2010 - AC, Rhône, France (#700922) (XD) - $53.95
• JONATA TODOS RED 2008 - Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara, California, USA (#218941) (D) - $59.95

White Wine:

• VIEIL ARMAND MÉDAILLE GEWURZTRAMINER 2010 - AC Alsace, France (#260158) (MS) - $17.95
• DOPFF & IRION VORBOURG PINOT GRIS 2009 - AC Alsace Grand Cru, France (#292227) (M) - $17.95
• YALUMBA ORGANIC VIOGNIER 2011 - South Australia (#288217) (D) - $16.95
• CAVE DE LA VIGNE BLANCHE MÂCON-VILLAGES 2010 - AC, Burgundy, France (#284034) (XD) - $15.95
• LE CLOS JORDANNE VILLAGE RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#033936) (XD) - $30.00

Sparkling Wine:

• CAVE DE LUGNY BRUT ROSÉ CRÉMANT DE BOURGOGNE - AC, Burgundy, France (#297846) (D) - $16.95
• MOËT & CHANDON GRAND VINTAGE BRUT ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE 2002 - AC, France (#069831) (XD) - $87.95

Honey Wine:

• ROSEWOOD MEAD ROYALE HONEY WINE 2008 - Select Barrel Aged, Ontario, Canada (#296178) (M) (500 mL) - $14.95

The rest of the wines from this release can be found here.

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Château de Galifay Cairanne 2010 (France) - Wine Review

This red wine is from the fabulous 2010 Southern Rhône vintage and consists of approx. 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah. It was purchased from the Sept. 1 Vintages release.

CHÂTEAU DE GALIFAY CAIRANNE CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2010 - AC, Rhône, France (#290080) (XD) - $17.00

Tasting Note:
Plum and cherry wood aromas from cork. Very nice lavender, violet and toasty wood and licorice aromas. Medium-bodied with nicely integrated tannins. Sweet dark fruit flavours on the palate with some spice kicking in midway, leading to a smooth, herbal-note, medium-length finish. Very good acidity. An easy drinking red with some substance. Delicious. Going to enjoy this with lamb chops.

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Oct. 10 - Cheese & Wine Tasting with Natalie MacLean

On the evening of October 10, I had the pleasure of tasting some fabulous Canadian cheeses and pairing them with Ontario wine. Hosted by Natalie MacLean on Google+ Hangouts, I was joined by 9 others where we discussed the various cheeses and wines. Here is the video recording:



Details of the cheese, wine and participants can be found here.

Here are my impressions of the wines, as well as pairings with each cheese:

JACKSON-TRIGGS RESERVE MERLOT 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#618421) (D) - $13.95
Screw top. Light earthy, currant and red fruit and some smoke aromas from the glass. Medium-bodied and dry with red fruit, raspberry on the palate leads to peppery, medium-length finish with hints of dark chocolate.

Paired really well with the Madagascar Green Peppercorn as the pepper flavours in the cheese really bring out the pepper/spice notes in the Merlot, without being overwhelming. There is good balance and mouthfeel with the Alpindon as the cheese really softens and coats the pepper notes. The Comfort Cream camembert is also a good pairing. The Onion Cheddar really mixes and mingles nicely with the pepper/herbal/vegetal notes in the Merlot - good pairing. The Elizabeth Bleu and the 1608 overpowers this mild red.

JACKSON-TRIGGS RESERVE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#618413) (D) - $13.95
Screw top. Clean, refreshing lime gooseberry, and herbal aromas give way slight earthiness. Light-bodied with replays of lime, gooseberry, and grass on palate. Has a very fine acidic backbone, medium finish that is a touch hot.

The Alpindon softens the wine acidity and makes the pairing quite delicious. As well, the Green Peppercorn really brings out the herbal/vegetal notes in the wine and makes for an excellent pairing. Average pairing with the Camembert. The Onion cheddar is a bit strong for this Savvy. The 1608 dominates, while the flavours from the Elizabeth Bleu don't mesh.

OPEN CHARDONNAY 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#305151) (M) - $11.95
Screw top. Almost no nose, some floral, melon aromas. Very faint honeysuckle, peach, melon on the palate. Medium-bodied with little acidity. Finishes with some spiciness. In a blind tasting, I would have trouble identifying this wine as a Chardonnay.

The sweetness level of this wine allows it to be paired with the 1608 and the Onion cheddar, but not quite enough for the Green Peppercorn or the Alpindon. It pairs well with the Camembert, but is completely killed by the Elizabeth Bleu.

OPEN CAB²-MERLOT 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#134957) (D) - $11.95
Screw top. Funky crushed red berry aromas, plus some vanilla, coconut and oak aromas. Medium-bodied, round mouthfeel with little acidity. Flavours of raspberry, coconut, vanilla and hints of oak spice. Mostly well-integrated tannins are slightly chalky. Finish is medium. Easy drinking red.

The easy-drinking nature of this wine lends itself to the Camembert and Alpindon, while the 1608 (with rind) is a bit strong for this Cab-Merlot. The Onion cheddar mutes the wines flavours, while the Green Peppercorn brings out the vanilla oak spice notes from the wine. The Elizabeth Bleu pairing really doesn't do well.

INNISKILLIN PINOT NOIR 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#261099) (D) - $13.95
Red currant, iodine and smoke aromas. Light-to-medium bodied with currant, pomegranate, cranberry on the palate. Some plummy notes on the mid-palate, hints of raisin. Very good acidity with a medium finish. Chalky tannins need a couple of years, but easy drinking right now.

Again, an easy-drinking red that pairs well with the Camembert and the Alpindon. The 1608 and Onion cheddar dominate the flavour profile. Lots of spicy flavours when pairing this Pinot with the Green Peppercorn.

INNISKILLIN VIDAL SPARKLING ICEWINE 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#560367) (S) - $79.95
Gorgeous peach, apricot and honey aromas with lots of aromas replays on palate dominated by honey. Medium-bodied with good acidity. Silky smooth, creamy mousse on the medium-long finish. In a word: WOW!

Lacking the acidity and finish to pair with the Camembert. Good pairing with the Alpindon, while the pairings with the 1608 and Green Peppercorn start well, but finish with the cheese flavours dominating the palate. This Vidal holds it own quite well against the Onion cheddar. The Elizabeth Bleu is a match made in heaven

JACKSON-TRIGGS RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#526251) (D) - $11.95
Screw top. Pear, orchard fruits and hints of barnyard from the glass. Medium-bodied with flavours of beeswax and pear. Dry. Well-balanced with bright acidity. Finish is long with spiced oak flavours and hints of vanilla.

This white wine brings out some earthy/mushroom flavours in the Camembert. A magic pairing with the Alpindon, nicely balanced and meshed. Pairs well with the 1608 until the wine leaves your mouth and you get a burst of flavour from the cheese. The Onion cheddar dominates the wine, while the Chardonnay does hold its own for a while with strong pepper/spice notes against the Green Peppercorn. The Elizabeth Bleu doesn't pair well.

JACKSON-TRIGGS RESERVE RIESLING 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#526277) (M) - $11.45
Screw top. Mineral, floral apricot and honey aromas. Light-bodied with crisp mineral and lime on the palate. It's on the sweeter side, with good acidity, but has slight tart notes at the mid-palate and a short, supple finish. Would make a good apertif.

Average pairing with the Camembert and the Alpindon. The wine pairing with the 1608 was pleasant. The sweetness from this wine did subdue the onion from the Onion Cheddar. Really did not enjoy the pairing with the Green Peppercorn and the Elizabeth Bleu.

LE CLOS JORDANNE VILLAGE RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2009 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario (#033936) (XD) - $30.00
Spring flower aromas from the cork. Silky aromas of buttered popcorn and French oak, with hints of vanilla. Also an intriguing sesame note. Creamy mouthfeel with refreshing acidity and extra dry flavours of minerality, oak and lemon rind. Very smooth with a lasting finish that goes on and on...

This Chardonnay glides smoothly over the Camembert and the Alpindon. However, once the Chardonnay leaves your mouth, there is a blast of flavour from the Alpindon - not bad. Nicely balanced pairing with the 1608. Also enjoyable was the Onion cheddar and Green Peppercorn, however, the Green Peppercorn flavours do last must longer than the wine. The pairing with the Elizabeth Bleu is not bad, but I would be hesitant to praise it, as it's a little harsh.

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Oct. 27 LCBO Wine Picks: 2009 Bordeaux

The next Vintages release will be in LCBO outlets across Ontario on Saturday, October 27. The main feature in this release is on the critically-acclaimed 2009 Bordeaux vintage - once hailed as the "Vintage of the Century".

However, looking at the 16 red Bordeaux wines in this release, I was a little underwhelmed with the offerings - I was expecting greatness! I was more impressed with the two white Bordeauxs. The Château Toumilon - made using 60% Semillion and 40% Sauvignon Blanc, and the Château de Cruzeau - which is 100% Sauvignon Blanc are both outstanding. Among the reds, the Lestruelle is a good introduction to the vintage, consisting of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, while the Château Sénéjac is (likely) a blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

The secondary feature in this release is on small, boutique wineries from California. Not surprisingly, they all come in at rather high price points. If money is no object, grab a few bottles of the Juslyn Spring Mountain Cab Sauv and open one every 5 years.

From the rest of the release, the Hecht & Bannier Minervois consists of mostly Syrah, some Grenache, and drops of Carignan. The Fattoi is, of course, 100% Sangiovese.

Among my white wine picks, the Simonnet-Febvre is, of course, 100% Chardonnay. Also, consider getting both the Preiss-Zimmer and the Dr. Loosen Rieslings and taste them side-by-side. Both are similar in sweetness levels, as the German wine is just off-dry (unusual for Mosel Rieslings) and would allow for a good comparison between these two fine Riesling wine regions.

Enjoy my picks for this week! Cheers!


Red Wine:

• CHÂTEAU LESTRUELLE 2009 - AC Médoc, Bordeaux, France (#295840) (XD) - $18.95
• TRAPICHE FINCAS LAS PALMAS MALBEC 2007 - Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#186668) (XD) - $17.95
• CANEPA FINÍSIMO GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009 - Marchigüe, Colchagua Valley, Chile (#211920) (XD) - $17.95
• HECHT & BANNIER MINERVOIS 2010 - AC, Midi, France (#017764) (XD) - $19.95
• GRA² GRACIANO 2010 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#190819) (XD) - $16.95
• CHÂTEAU SÉNÉJAC 2009 - AC Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France (#193177) (XD) - $28.85
• FATTOI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2007 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#033498) (XD) - $34.95
• JUSLYN SPRING MOUNTAIN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#289868) (XD) - $139.95

White Wine:

• PREISS-ZIMMER VIEILLES VIGNES RIESLING 2008 - AC Alsace, France (#292193) (D) - $18.95
• SIMONNET-FEBVRE CHABLIS 2010 - AC, Burgundy, France (#041780) (XD) - $19.95
• CHÂTEAU TOUMILON BLANC 2009 - AC Graves, Bordeaux, France (#314864) (XD) - $16.95
• DR. LOOSEN RED SLATE RIESLING DRY 2011 - Qualitätswein, Mosel, Germany (#295923) (D) - $19.95
• MIKE WEIR SAUVIGNON BLANC 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#686972) (XD) - $14.95
• CHÂTEAU DE CRUZEAU BLANC 2009 - AC Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France (#966010) (XD) - $27.95

The rest of the wines from this release can be found here.

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Wine Reviews - 2012 Niagara Wine Festival

Here are my wine reviews from my recent visit to the Niagara Peninsula for the 2012 Niagara Grape & Wine Festival.

As usual, I tasted some very tasty and exciting wines. Some of the highlights were Fielding's Chosen Few, Vineland's St. Urban Elevation, nearly everything from Niagara College Teaching Winery, Featherstone's 2011 Cab Franc and Onyx, and Tawse's Chardonnays and Cab Franc Icewine. Some of these wines can be found at the LCBO, while the rest can be ordered online from the winery's website or by visiting the winery.

FIELDING CABERNET-SYRAH 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#258657) (XD) - $24.95
Aromas of smoke and ripe blackberries with nice replays on the palate. Some spiciness on the medium-long finish. Mouth-watering acidity. Tannins integrating nicely, but could use another year or so in bottle. Score: 88 pts

FIELDING ESTATE BOTTLED RIESLING 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#251439) (D) - $18.95
Very lovely aromas of floral, lemon drops and citrus. Aroma replays on palate that also feature some intriguing honey notes. Very good acidity, quite well-balanced and finishes crisp. Score: 89 pts

FIELDING LOT NO. 17 RIESLING 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#203521) (D) - $25.95
Soft, clean aromas of citrus, lime, mango, mineral and florals, with more of the same on the juicy, sweet fruit, and vibrant palate. Well-balanced with bracing acidity and a long finish. Tasty! Score: 89+ pts

FIELDING CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#) (XD) - $44.95
Lots of cassis and smoked cedar, with some hints of mint aromas. Full-bodied with big, chalky tannins. Cassis and cedar flavours on the long finish. Still seems young and needs a couple of years for tannins to settle. Score: 88-89 pts

FIELDING CHOSEN FEW 2007 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#) (XD) - $59.95
Cabernet Sauvignon 45%, Merlot 41%, and Syrah 14%. Intense aromas of currant, black fruits and some oak. Medium-full bodied with savoury ripe fruits, currants and spice on the palate. Long finish. Approachable now, but will reward with further 2 years ageing. Score: 90 pts

VINELAND ESTATES CHARDONNAY MUSQUÉ 2008 - VQA Niagara Escarpment (#996793) (D) - $17.95
Fresh and aromatic with intriguing honey, lime and citrus aromas. Medium-bodied with peach, citrus, lime and hints of spice on the palate. Medium-long finish is a touch hot. Paired well with the Comox Brie. Score: 88 pts

VINELAND ESTATES ST. URBAN ELEVATION RIESLING 2011 - VQA Niagara Escarpment (#38117) (M) - $19.95
Mineral and petrol aromas with hints of peach and apricot. Bracing acidity on the palate with flavours of peach and honey, finishing with tart minerality. Quite well-balanced and paired very well with the Aged Lankaaster. Score: 89 pts

VINELAND ESTATES ELEVATION CABERNET 2009 - VQA Niagara Escarpment (#173609) (D) - $25.00
94% Cab Franc, 6% Cab Sauv. Lots of oak, smoke, currant and dark fruit aromas with replays on the palate. A simple, balanced-wine with good acidity. Pairing was average with the Réserve La Pérade. Score: 87 pts

VINELAND ESTATES ELEVATION CABERNET 2010 - VQA Niagara Escarpment (#173609) (D) - $25.00
65% Cab Franc, 33% Cab Sauv and 2% Merlot. Red fruit and restrained oak aromas. Full bodied and well-balanced with integrated tannins. Red fruit and cedar flavour profile on long finish. Score: 88 pts

VINELAND ESTATES ELEVATION CHARDONNAY 2011 - VQA Niagara Escarpment (#164459) (XD) - $20.75
Clean intense lime aromas. Well-balanced and refreshing on the palate with more lime and mineral flavours. Long finish. Serve well-chilled. Score: 89 pts

VINELAND ESTATES CABERNET FRANC RESERVE 2010 - VQA Niagara Escarpment (#) (XD)
88% Cab Franc, 10% Cab Sauv and 2% Merlot. Intense oak and dark fruit aromas. Full-bodied with integrated oak and dark fruit flavours on the palate. Approachable now, but another year in cellar would benefit. Score: 88 pts

NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING WINERY (NCT) DEAN'S LIST CHARDONNAY 2009 - Donald Ziraldo, St. David's Bench, VQA Niagara Peninsula (#) (D) - $27.95
Very long nose with butter and apple aromatics joined by some tropical fruits. Begins very smooth with aromas replays on the palate, long finish is a bit spicy. Enjoyable! Score: 90 pts

NCT DEAN'S LIST CABERNET FRANC 2009 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#) (XD) - $27.95
Inaugural vintage? Jammy red fruits, cranberry and some wood smoke and plum aromas. Full bodied and quite smooth with red fruit and plum on the palate. Ripe tannins. Well-made. Score: 88 pts

NCT DEAN'S LIST MERITAGE 2007 - VQA Ontario (#) (XD) - $47.95
Black currant and cedar oak aromas. On the palate, there is blackberry and cassis. Combination of American, Canadian and French oak is well-integrated. Ripe tannins are refined and elegant. Finish is smooth and long. Drinking great right now! Score: 91 pts

NCT DEAN'S LIST SAVANT ICEWINE 2009 - (S) (200 mL) - $37.95
Gorgeous sweet apple cider, peach and orange aromas. Medium-bodied with a very good backbone of acidity that balances sweetness extremely well. Flavours of peach, apple cider and orange shine through on the palate, finishing long. Wow. Score: 91-92 pts

PILLITTERI CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (XD)
Blackcurrant, cassis, plum and hints of vanilla aromas. Medium-bodied with dark fruits and spice on the palate. Mouthfeel is soft and round, with integrated tannins. Short-to medium finish. Score: 87 pts

PILLITTERI PINOT GRIGIO 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#146787) (XD) - $14.95
Mostly citrus and lime aromas, with hints of floral and peach. Bone dry with high acidity. Lime and floral notes on the palate. It paired well with the 1-year-old cheddar. Score: 86 pts

JACKSON-TRIGGS BLACK SERIES GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#526269) (D) - $12.95
Gorgeous floral and clean lime aromas, also some lychee notes. Dry on the palate with lime and lychee flavours. Some spiciness on the mid-palate, and a nice finish. Easy drinking. Would make a good apertif. Score: 88 pts

HERNDER CABERNET FRANC 2010 - VQA (#) (XD) - $18.95
Copious amounts of oak, cedar and vanilla aromas. On the palate, there is raspberry and red currant flavours. Good acidity and has a short finish. Score: 83 pts

FEATHERSTONE ROSÉ 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#117861) (D) - $14.95
Blend of 60% Gamay and 40% Cab Franc. Fruity red fruits, cranberry, and candied fruit aromas. Bracing acidity and dry with candied cherries and strawberries on the palate. Finish is a touch hot. Would make a great apertif. Score: 87 pts

FEATHERSTONE GAMAY 2010 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench (#) (XD) - $19.95
Aged in French oak, this wine features woody aromas of cedar and cran-cherry with replays on the palate. Tannins are well-integrated. A simple, easy-drinking, well-balanced, extra-dry red wine. Score: 88 pts

FEATHERSTONE PINOT NOIR 2008 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench (#) (XD) - $24.95
Very earthy with mushroom and forest floor aromas. Light-bodied and made in a cool-climate style with sourcherry, beet root notes on the palate. Mouth-watering acidity. Ripe fruit with slightly chalky tannins that are integrating nicely. Score: 87 pts

FEATHERSTONE CABERNET FRANC 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#64618) (XD) - $16.95
Bottled just two days prior to my tasting. Intense oak and cedar aromas with some raspberry and dark fruits in the background. Has good fruit, structure and acidity, but still very tight and grippy. Tannins will settle very nicely in a couple of years. Has potential to be better than 2010. Score: 90+ pts

FEATHERSTONE ONYX 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#) (XD) - $29.95
The 20 best barrels blended with 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot aged in French oak make up this wine. Lush red fruits and kirsch aromas. Medium-bodied and very smooth with red fruits on the palate. Finely-grained tannins and a long finish. A delight! Score: 90 pts

TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA CHARDONNAY 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#089037) (XD) - $19.95
Intense apple, pear, butter and peach aromas with replays on the palate. Extra dry wine that is medium-bodied and very smooth, with a lengthy finish. Nice!! Score: 90 pts

TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA RIESLING 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#089029) (D) - $17.95
Apricot/peach, petrol with some zesty orange aromas. Nice aroma replays on palate, but with some slight tartness on the finish. Lip-smacking acidity. Score: 90 pts. Here was my review from Nov. 2011.

TAWSE ECHOS CABERNET MERLOT 2010 - Niagara Peninsula (XD)
48% Cab Sauv, 35% Cab Franc and 18% Merlot and normally only available at restaurants. Very ripe dark red fruit along with sweet vanillan aromas. More dark fruits on the palate. It's quite smooth and balanced, long finish. Score: 88 pts

TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA ROSÉ 2011 - VQA Niagara (#172643) (D) - $15.95
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Gamay. Candied strawberry and cherry aromas. Ripe, juicy fruit and slightly off-dry with strawberry and cherry on the palate. Really good acidity and with a nice finish. Score: 87 pts

TAWSE QUARRY ROAD CHARDONNAY 2010 - VQA Vinemount Ridge (#111989) (XD) - $34.95
Apple and butter aromas with lots of minerality shining through. On the palate there is more minerality with citrus notes and lively acidity at mid-palate. Oak is very well integrated. Score: 91 pts

TAWSE CABERNET FRANC ICEWINE 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#306035) (S) (200 mL) - $34.95
Intense aromas of candied strawberry, cherry and floral aromas. Lush mouthfeel with ripe strawberry and cherry replays on the palate. Overall, it's very well-balanced by mouth-watering acidity. Lovely! Score: 91 pts

GREENLANE PINOT GRIGIO 2011 - VQA Lincoln Lakeshore (#) (XD) - $16.95
Clean, refreshing lime aromas.Mineral, lemon-lime and hints of citrus with a zing. Focused acidity with a finish that is a touch spicy and hot. Score: 86 pts

GREENLANE ESTATE RIESLING 2011 - VQA Lincoln Lakeshore (#327247) (D) - $21.95
Clean lime and petrol aromas with hints of citrus. Aroma replays on palate with bright acidity that's a bit bumpy. Some tartness on the medium-length finish. Score: 87 pts

GREENLANE ROSÉ 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#326181) (XD) - $15.95
Straight up ripe strawberry aromas and flavours. Some sweetness is quickly balanced by the lively acidity to finish extra dry. Also has a hot finish. Score: 86 pts

GREENLANE UNOAKED CHARDONNAY 2011 - VQA Lincoln Lakeshore (#329409) (XD) - $17.96
Very minerally with refreshing lime and pear aromas. On the palate there are citrus, peach and melon notes. Finish is hot, while the fruit needs some time to settle. Lay it down for 1 year. Score: 86-87 pts

GREENLANE ICEWINE RIESLING 2008 - VQA Niagara Peninsula (#) (S) (200 mL) - $29.95
Lovely apricot, peach and honey aromas. Very fine seam of acidity and aromas replays on the palate. Well-balanced until the finish, where fruit is starting to fade. Drink now. Score: 89 pts. Also tasted January 2012.

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Niagara Wine Festival 2012 - A Review

During the last weekend of September, I had the pleasure of visiting the Niagara Peninsula for the 61st Annual Grape and Wine Festival that celebrated this year's vintage harvest. This was my first time attending the big harvest festival in about 8 years, so I was excited to see what's changed during my absence.

Discovery Pass in hand, we started off at Fielding Estate Winery for a smoked tomato & Niagara Gold grilled cheese prepared by August Restaurant. This was paired beautifully with Fielding's 2010 Cabernet Syrah, as the smoky flavours from the wine held up well against the somewhat strong flavours from the Niagara Gold (cheese) and smoked tomato. The live guitar performance definitely added some great ambiance under the outdoor tent.

Up next was a traditional wine & cheese tasting at Vineland Estates Winery. First up was the very soft and delicious Comox Brie (British Columbia) that paired very nicely with the sweet flavours from the 2008 Chardonnay Musqué. The second pairing was the firm, Aged Lankaaster (Ontario) that also paired quite well with the 2011 St. Urban Elevation Riesling. The third and final pairing was the firm Réserve La Pérade (Québec) washed rind cheese with the 2009 Elevation Cabernet. It was a balanced pairing with strong flavours coming from both the rind and wine.

Our third stop of the afternoon was at Niagara College Teaching Winery. I was very excited about this visit as I had heard many good things, but never had the pleasure of visiting or tasting any of their wines. Led by Chris from NCT, we took in a tour of the winery and facilities - which I highly recommend as you will learn quite a bit - and followed that up with a structured tasting of a few of their Dean's List wines and some delicious Ice Syrup! I can't wait to post a review of these wines - look out for them shortly.

The final stop on Saturday was Montebello Park in St. Catharines and, while we didn't stay long, we did get a chance to taste a few wines and sample some food. The park was buzzing and quite crowded (much more so than I expected) and queues for some popular food items moved slowly while stretching back 15 people. However, patrons were enjoying themselves as they listened to 60's and 70's classics while sipping wine, as the evening cooled under cloudy skies.

On Sunday, we began our Discovery Pass Experience in Niagara-on-the-Lake at Pillitteri Estates Winery with a very generously-portioned grilled cheese sandwich made with sweet onion and 1-year-old white cheddar. Their 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon complemented the grilled cheese well, but a smaller/thinner sandwich bun would have worked better to bring out the cheese. What happened to the "shredding of 4 unconventional cheeses"?

Off we go to Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Winery for a pairing of their 2010 Gewürztraminer Reserve with a Black Tiger Shrimp "Po Boy". Excellent presentation. A satisfying pairing that could have been outstanding if the shrimp was spicier to better balance the off-dry flavours from the wine. Warm bread would have been a nice touch.

The next stop was Hernder Estate Wines in Twenty Valley for some turkey bites - I didn't enjoy it. On the bright side, we did leave with Icewine Slushies, which made the stop completely worthwhile!

Since we were making good time, we made an unplanned stop at Featherstone Estate Winery to see if any of the sheep labourers were around and perhaps take a tour. Instead, we ended up doing a few tastings, including the just-released 2011 Cabernet Franc, which looks like it's going to be REALLY good! I enjoyed their 2008 earlier this summer, and the 2010 was one of my top picks from the Sept. 15 Vintages release. I also had the pleasure of meeting The Grande Fromage: Louise Engel - a very sweet lady and a pleasure to talk to.

Our next stop was GreenLane Estate Winery for some hearty gourmet pizzas, where the base was made of fluffy pastry dough. Really delicious and paired well with their 2011 Pinot Grigio. The pizza on pastry dough was a great idea that was executed well, and I'm sure will be replicated at our home one of these days.

The final stop of our wine tour this weekend was Tawse Winery for traditional cheese and wine pairings. All 3 pairings of cheese and wine were great. However, my attention veered towards the wines - as all 3 were extremely yummy - with the 2010 Sketches of Niagara Chardonnay being my favourite!

Detailed reviews of wines tasted are here.

Overall, I was quite satisfied with our visit to Niagara and believe our group enjoyed themselves too! Thank you to everyone that attended! We look forward to having you join us in January 2013 for the Icewine Festival (2012 review here).

View the tour photo gallery.

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Oct. 13 LCBO Wine Picks: Australia + Chile

The next Vintages wine release will be in LCBO outlets across Ontario on Saturday, October 13. The main feature in this release is on five impressive artisanal wineries from Australia. Four of these wineries have wines among my picks in this release.

Australia is known for its Shiraz. But these four wines show that they are more than capable of producing outstanding wines using other varietals. In white wine, there is a delicious Chardonnay from Yabby Lake in the Mornington Peninsula. In reds, we have a Cabernet Sauvignon from Fraser Gallop in Margaret River, and a Pinot Noir from Oakridge in Yarra Valley. We also have a red blend from Spinifex in Barossa that consists of old vine Grenache, Cinsault and Mataró (a.k.a. Monastrell/Mourvèdre). All four wines will provide pleasure over at least the next 5 years, but I wish none of these start at $29.95.

The secondary feature in this release is on wines from some of Chile's finest vineyards. From Chile's most northern wine region, we have a fabulous Syrah from the Elquí Valley - it's also my top value red from the entire release. There are also two whites worth consideration - a Sauvignon Blanc from the Garuma Vineyard in Leyda Valley, and a Chardonnay from the Atalayas Vineyard in Casablanca Valley.

Among the rest of my wine picks, the Sasso Al Poggio is a blend of 60% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet, and 20% Merlot. The Guardian Peak is also a red blend, consisting of 60% Syrah, 31% Mourvèdre, and 9% Grenache. The Barolo from Piedmont is 100% Nebbiolo. One final note - don't miss the gorgeous Reif Vidal Icewine! Enjoy my picks for this week!


Red Wine:

• FALERNIA RESERVA SYRAH 2009 - Elquí Valley, Chile (#208371) (XD) - $16.95
• SASSO AL POGGIO 2006 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#134809) (XD) - $18.95
• GUARDIAN PEAK SMG 2009 - WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#296681) (D) - $19.95
• CHÂTEAU LAFONT FOURCAT 2010 - AC Bordeaux, France (#295790) (XD) - $15.95
• SPINIFEX PAPILLON 2010 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (#285205) (XD) - $29.95
• MARCHESI DI BAROLO BAROLO 2006 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#168179) (D) - $34.95
• OAKRIDGE PINOT NOIR 2010 - Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia (#284059) (XD) - $38.95
• FRASER GALLOP CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009 - Wilyabrup, Margaret River, Western Australia (#283069) (XD) - $45.95

White Wine:

• TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA RIESLING 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#89029) (D) - $17.95
• GIESEN THE BROTHERS SAUVIGNON BLANC 2010 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#247213) (XD) - $19.95
• WILLY GISSELBRECHT TRADITION GEWURZTRAMINER 2010 - AC Alsace, France (#928390) (M) - $18.95
• LEYDA SINGLE VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2011 - Garuma Vineyard, Leyda Valley, Chile (#99309) (D) - $16.95
• CASA LAPOSTOLLE CUVÉE ALEXANDRE CHARDONNAY 2011 - Atalayas Vineyard, Casablanca Valley, Chile (#947937) (D) - $24.95
• YABBY LAKE SINGLE VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2010 - Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia (#138628) (XD) - $39.95

Icewine:

• REIF VIDAL ICEWINE 2010 - VQA Niagara River, Ontario, Canada (#544791) (S) (200 mL) - $24.95

The rest of the wines from this release can be found here.

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Casa Castillo Monastrell 2010 (Spain) - Wine Review

Purchased this red wine last week from the September 29th Vintages release. Made from Monastrell (as it's known in Spain), this varietal also known as Mataró or Mourvèdre in other wine regions.

CASA CASTILLO MONASTRELL 2010 - DO Jumilla, Spain (#165621) (XD) - $13.95

Tasting Note:
Meaty and fleshy plum aromas from the cork. Aromas of blackberry, violet, cedar oak, and smoked meat from the glass. Medium-bodied on the palate with ripe, dark fruits and subtle violet notes. Very smooth and well-balanced with very finely-grained tannins. Delicious and a great value!

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Rubaiyat Koshu Sur Lie 2009 (Japan) - Wine Review

This white wine is my first time tasting a wine from Japan and was acquired during the spring. It is meant to be opened young and can be purchased via private order from Savia Wine.

RUBAIYAT KOSHU SUR LIE 2009 - Japan (XD) - $42

Tasting Note:
Made with 100% Koshu fermented on the lees. Mild clean fruit aromas from the cork. Soft floral, lavender aromatics from the glass that remind me of the last Sake I had. Medium weight and very dry with floral and mineral flavours. Drops of honey dance on the palate. Quite well-balanced with vibrant acidity. Finish is a touch hot. Drink now. Not surprisingly, this will pair nicely with sushi and sashimi.

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Sept. 29 LCBO Wine Picks: Tuscany + Pinot Noir

The next Vintages wine release will be in LCBO outlets across Ontario on Saturday, September 29. This release focuses on Tuscan Traditions, which includes some very nice red wines at a very high price points.

The Poggio Al Tesoro (blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc) and the Tenuta (blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese) are both cellar dwellars right now should be aged for at least 3-4 years. While the Antinori Brunello di Montalcino is made using 100% Sangiovese (Brunello) and can be enjoyed now or cellared for at least the next decade.

The secondary feature is on Pinot Noir from two very specific regions in Australia and New Zealand, of which a version from the Mornington Peninsula (Victoria, AU) is worth checking out. There is also a small feature on pairing wine with Thanksgiving side dishes, with the Vouvray, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling Spätlese all making my list - and can be enjoyed on their own as well.

Among the rest of the wines from this release, the Spanish Monastrell (a.k.a. Mataró or Mourvèdre) offers great value at only $13.95, while the barrel-fermented Finca Nueva Blanco is made using the Viura varietal. The Finca Flichman from Argentina consists of 55% Syrah, 35% Malbec and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. From France, we have a Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot blend from the superb 2009 Bordeaux vintage, and a 2010 southern Rhône that is blended with 50% Grenache, 35% Mourvèdre, and 15% Syrah.

Enjoy my picks for this week! Cheers!


Red Wine:

• CASA CASTILLO MONASTRELL 2010 - DO Jumilla, Spain (#165621) (XD) - $13.95
• FINCA FLICHMAN PAISAJE DE BARRANCAS 2009 - Mendoza, Argentina (#017129) (D) - $17.95
• HOGUE GENESIS MERLOT 2008 - Columbia Valley, Washington, USA (#349415) (D) - $18.95
• CHÂTEAU MAISON BLANCHE 2009 - AC Médoc, Bordeaux, France (#295824) (XD) - $19.95
• DOMAINE LES GRANDS BOIS CUVÉE MAXIMILIEN CAIRANNE 2010 - Unfiltered, AC Côtes du Rhône-Villages, France (#286336) (XD) - $21.95
• STONIER PINOT NOIR 2010 - Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia (#025338) (XD) - $24.95

• POGGIO AL TESORO SONDRAIA 2008 - DOC Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy (#292391) (XD) - $44.95
• ANTINORI PIAN DELLE VIGNE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2006 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#651141) (XD) - $59.95
• TENUTA SETTE PONTI ORENO 2009 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#735597) (XD) - $71.95

White Wine:

• DOMAINE DE VAUGONDY DRY VOUVRAY 2010 - AC, Loire, France (#189142) (D) - $14.95
• FINCA NUEVA FERMENTADO EN BARRICA BLANCO 2010 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#280560) (XD) - $15.95
• CAVE SPRING ESTATE BOTTLED CAVE SPRING VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2010 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#256552) (XD) - $18.95
• HOFFMANN-SIMON PIESPORTER GOLDTRÖPFCHEN RIESLING SPÄTLESE 2011 - Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany (#216499) (MS) - $21.95
• DOG POINT VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2011 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#677450) (XD) - $21.95
• PALMINA LARNER VINEYARD MALVASIA BIANCA 2010 - Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara, California, USA (#289157) (D) - $35.95

Icewine:

• TAWSE CABERNET FRANC ICEWINE 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#306035) (S) (200 mL) - $34.95

The rest of the wines from this release can be found here.

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Pascual Toso Reserve Malbec 2009 (Argentina) - Wine Review

Picked up this gem of a red wine while I was in Muskoka as I wasn't able to find it at an LCBO near me. It was purchased from the August 4 Vintages Release and there are quite a few still available.

PASCUAL TOSO RESERVE MALBEC 2009 - Barrancas Vineyards, Mendoza, Argentina (#183897) (XD) - $19.95

Tasting Note:
Earthy, mulberry and dark fruit aromas from the cork. In the glass, aromas of savoury spice lead to mulberry, bramble, vanilla and all surrounded by an earthy core. Full bodied on the palate with more mulberry and bramble replays, some earthy notes. Hints of milk chocolate and espresso on the long finish. Ripe fruit with mouth-watering acidity. Smooth tannins are well-integrated. Will be enjoyed with Chicken lasagne.

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Sept. 15 LCBO Wine Picks: Ontario Wines

The next LCBO Vintages release will be in stores across the province on Saturday, September 15. The theme of this release is on wines from Ontario, to coincide with the upcoming #LCBOgoLOCAL campaign that runs from mid-September to mid-October.

A mini-theme of my picks this week includes 5 Chardonnays of various styles that includes 2 wines from Niagara, and 1 each from Prince Edward County, Chile, and a Chablis from France. If you prefer the unoaked style of Chardonnay, your best best is the Chablis from Burgundy as it was aged in steel tanks. Having said that, the three Ontario Chardonnays from Lailey, Closson Chase and Bachelder are not the big, oaky-type, but do have just enough to be aged a few years in the cellar. All are very well-made.

If you didn't know already, Ontario does Cabernet Franc quite well. Among my red wine picks, there is a fine example from Featherstone, who is among the leaders of this varietal here in Ontario. They also have a very interesting set of eco-friendly practices that include sheep labour and falconry. Pinot Noir is also quite well-made here in Ontario, with Le Clos Jordanne among the best producers of this varietal with a focus on terroir.

Among the rest of my wine picks, the Côte de l'Ange is a 2010 Rhone blend consisting of 95% Grenache and 5% Mourvedre. The Brunello di Montalcino is the made with 100% Sangiovese (Brunello) and should be cellared for at least 2 years. While The Black Chook is mostly Shiraz, and fermented with some Viognier to add lovely aromatics.

This release also coincides with the annual Niagara Grape & Wine Festival, that runs Sept 21-30, of which I will also be in attendance. Say 'hello' if you see me around in Niagara during the Festival. Cheers!


Red Wine:

• FEATHERSTONE CABERNET FRANC 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#64618) (XD) - $16.95
• THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER 2010 - McLaren Vale, South Australia (#66738) (D) - $17.95
• JUANA DE SOL RESERVA MALBEC 2010 - Single Vineyard, Mendoza, Argentina (#288381) (XD) - $15.95
• DOMAINE DE LA CÔTE DE L’ANGE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2010 - AC, Rhône, France (#074856) (XD) - $37.95
• COLLOSORBO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2006 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#285742) (XD) - $49.95
• LE CLOS JORDANNE CLAYSTONE TERRACE PINOT NOIR 2009 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Twenty Mile Bench, Ontario, Canada (#033951) (D) - $45.00

White Wine:

• LAILEY CHARDONNAY 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#193482) (XD) - $19.95
• SOL DE ANDES RESERVA ESPECIAL CHARDONNAY 2009 - Casablanca Valley, Chile (#254326) (XD) - $17.95
• DOMAINE SÉGUINOT-BORDET CHABLIS 2010 - AC, Burgundy, France (#289371) (XD) - $19.95
• DRIFT SAUVIGNON BLANC 2011 - Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#278465) (D) - $19.95
• NALS MARGREID PINOT GRIGIO 2011 - DOC Südtirol Alto Adige, Italy (#290924) (XD) - $17.95
• ROLLY GASSMANN STEGREBEN DE RORSCHWIHR GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2009 - AC Alsace, France (#289439) (M) - $27.95
• CLOSSON CHASE CHARDONNAY 2009 - Closson Chase Vineyard, VQA Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada (#148866) (XD) - $29.95
• BACHELDER NIAGARA CHARDONNAY 2010 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#302083) (XD) - $29.95

Sparkling Wine:

• ROEDERER ESTATE L’ERMITAGE BRUT SPARKLING WINE 2003 - Anderson Valley, California (#183392) (D) - $54.95
• INNISKILLIN VIDAL SPARKLING ICEWINE 2011 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#560367) (S) (375 mL) - $79.95

Icewine:

• CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES ESTATE BOTTLED VIDAL ICEWINE 2009 - VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada (#565861) (S) (200 mL) - $25.95

The rest of the wines from this release can be found here.

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Concha y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Carmenère 2010 (Chile) - Wine Review

Opened this lovely Chilean red wine that was purchased from the June 23 Vintages wine release.

CONCHA Y TORO MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA CARMENÈRE 2010 - Peumo Vineyard, Rapel Valley, Chile (#169862) (XD) - $17.00

Tasting Note:
Plum and cherry cola nose from the cork. Alluring spice box and cherry aromas from the glass. Medium-bodied with savoury black cherry and dark red fruits on the palate. Very light tannins are backed by mouth-watering good acidity. Short finish is a touch hot. Could cellar for 2 years, but definitely enjoyable now. Tip: Serve this straight out of the cellar or even chill for 5-10 minutes prior to serving. Will pair well with the homemade pizza we're having tonight.

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Bosman Adama White 2010 (South Africa) - Wine Review

Purchased this white wine last month from the August 18 Vintages release.

BOSMAN ADAMA WHITE 2010 - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#282764) (D) - $18.95

Tasting Note:
A white blend that is primarily Chenin Blanc with Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Viognier and Semillon playing a supporting role. Peach and tart citrus aromas from the cork. Grapefruit, citrus, peach and mineral aromas. More grapefruit and stoney minerailty on the palate, joined by citrus and green flavours. Lively acidity with a short finish. Smells sweeter than it tastes, only very slightly off-dry on the palate. Quite good. Will be enjoyed with chicken kebabs off the BBQ.

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