Chateau St. Jean Cinq Cépages 2017 (Sonoma) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine reviews is an excellent Cabernet Sauvignon blend from Sonoma County that arrived at the LCBO as part of the August LCBO VINTAGES Cellar Collection Release and is now available at several stores across Ontario. It will make a fine gift for the holidays or a nice addition to your cellar.

It is produced by Chateau St. Jean, an iconic Chateau that dates back to the 1920's, but whose story as a top wine producer began in 1973 when the three founders of the estate purchased the northern Sonoma Valley property. Their vision for the property was to create wines that captured the nuance, character, and quality of Sonoma's distinct vineyards and growing regions. The founders, Robert and Edward Merzoian, and Kenneth Sheffield, who were San Joaquin Valley table grape growers and shippers, named the winery after the only woman who was "saintly" enough to keep the three of them in line, Jean Sheffield Merzoian, sister-in-law, wife, and sister to the owners.

The Chateau was built by the Goff family, who had established their family fortune in the iron ore mines of Michigan's Upper Peninsula and Pacific Northwest lumber. They came to California in 1916 and purchased 300 acres of land in the Valley of the Moon area of Sonoma County, California. Construction of the Goff family summer home - now the Chateau - began in 1920, and white wine grapes were grown on the property. The living room of the home is now the Reserve Tasting Room in the Chateau.

After founding the winery in 1973, they had their first vintage a year later, and produced wines on the property for the first time in 1975 with Dick Arrowood as Chateau St. Jean's first winemaker. In 1980, the founders built a brand new winery in Kenwood, California, that was designed from the ground up to accommodate the numerous grape parcels and keep them separate throughout the winemaking process, ensuring that vineyard designation stayed pure. In 1999, Chateau St. Jean was acquired by Treasury Wine Estates, and a year later they opened a new Visitor Centre and Gardens, which features a statue of Jean in the main courtyard garden by the pool.

In 2021, Foley Family Wines acquired Chateau St. Jean from the Americas division of Treasury Wine Estates. A year later, they welcomed Winemaker Niki Williams, the company's fifth winemaker, while also undergoing renovations that included rebuilding the destemmer, crush pad, and presses, as well as upgrading the gardens and surrounding facilities to improve the visitor experience.

With a proud history and having set the standard for excellence in Sonoma County winemaking, Chateau St. Jean celebrates 50 years in 2023. Some of these achievements for excellence in wine include the 1996 Cinq Cépages being awarded the wine of the year in Wine Spectator's Top 100 list, while the 1999 vintage was awarded second place. In 2008, Winemaker Margo Van Staaveren was also awarded Winemaker of the Year by Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

This Cinq Cépages, which translates to "Five Grape Varieties", is the flagship wine of Chateau St. Jean. First introduced in 1990, it is crafted in a Bordeaux-style blend with Cabernet Sauvignon the main variety. To craft this wine, Winemaker Margo Van Staaveren, who joined Chateau St. Jean in 1980 and became Winemaker in 2003, selected the best fruit from outstanding and proven Bordeaux varietal vineyards that showcase the very best of Sonoma County. In this vintage, it is a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec, and 1% Petit Verdot, with 46% of the fruit coming from Knights Valley, an area which highlights boysenberry flavours and elegant tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon from the Monte Rosso and Mountain Terraces Vineyards on Moon Mountain add structure, while Merlot from the Louvau Vineyard in Dry Creek adds lush juiciness and texture. The Malbec comes from Chateau St. Jean's Estate Vineyard in Sonoma Valley, while some fruit is also from Stuhlmuller Vineyard in Alexander Valley, which brings savoury, dried herb, and bright berry notes. After vinification, the wine was aged for 20 months in French oak (68% new). It was bottled in January 2020 and released in October.

The 2017 growing season began with abundant rainfall, followed by a mild spring that resulted in extended flowering. Warm late-summer temperatures moved harvest along quickly, while yields for the 2017 vintage were slightly lower than the previous couple of vintages. While the 2017 vintage was challenging, the wines that were produced are of excellent quality with complex flavours, concentrated colour, and finesse. Let's see how this 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon blend from Sonoma is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CHATEAU ST. JEAN CINQ CÉPAGES 2017 - Sonoma County, California, USA (#710913) (XD) - $130
Blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec, and 1% Petit Verdot. Rich and elegant, the fragrant, medium-high intensity nose delivers lush, complex, ripe, dark fruited, blackberry, black and red currant, fine oak spices, grilled herb, and earth aromas with touches of boysenberry and floral. It's full-bodied with ripe black and red currant, cassis, blackberry, savoury oak spice, earth, peppery spice, grilled herb flavours surrounding a savoury core. It's framed by fresh, juicy acidity and elegant, yet firmly structured, fine-grained tannins. It's a touch palate warming, but still balanced. Savoury and earthy with graphite notes linger on the exceptionally long finish. Provides immense pleasure now, but will reward cellaring. Enjoy to 2035+. Highly recommended buy! Score: 94 pts

Other fine wines from Chateau St. Jean's large portfolio can be found at the LCBO, or ordered through their Agent - Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits.

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Marqués de Griñon Clásico 2018 (Rioja) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a delicious Rioja from Spain that arrived as a brand new wine to the LCBO over the summer as part of the June 24 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Marqués de Griñon, a title and prestigious wine estate located in Toledo, in central Spain. The title and winery are linked to the family of Carlos Falcó, a Spanish aristocrat and winemaker who played a significant role in elevating the status of Spanish wines.

Carlos Falcó (1937-2020), the 5th Marqués de Griñón, was a visionary winemaker and a key figure in Spain's wine industry, dedicating himself to improving the quality of Spanish wines, particularly those from the Denominación de Origen (DO) regions of La Mancha and Dominio de Valdepusa. As a pioneer, he introduced new grape varieties and modern winemaking techniques to the Spanish wine industry.

In 1974, Carlos planted the first Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Castilla La Mancha, while also becoming the first in the world to use drip irrigation in the vineyard that same year. In 1982, he began using the consulting services of Émile Peynaud, professor of oenology at the University of Bordeaux, while in 1989 construction was completed on the brand new Dominio de Valdepusa winery that featured Spain's first climate-controlled ageing cellar. In 1991, he began using the consulting services of renowned oenologist Michel Rolland, while also being the first in Spain to plant Syrah, and a year later he was the first to plant Petit Verdot. In 1993, Carlos introduced trellis systems featuring the advanced Lira and Smart-Dyson designs. After planting the first Petit Verdot in Spain in 1992, two years later he launched the world's first single-varietal Petit Verdot wine.

The innovations continued in 1999 with the introduction of computerised electronic controls to monitor soil moisture, along with dendrometers to measure the water stress of the vines. At the turn of the century, they began experimenting with the Graciano varietal and also planted the small El Rincón estate vineyard in Aldea del Fresno, Madrid. Carlos was also instrumental in helping create DO Dominio de Valdepusa, a status that was granted by the Government of Castilla-La Mancha in 2002, and ratified by the European Commission in 2003, followed in 2006 by measurements and observations of the root systems within the DO with the assistance of international soil guru - Claude Bourguignon. The excellent results of the experimental planting of Graciano in DO Dominio de Valdepusa led to expanded plantings of the varietal.

This particular red wine is from their Signature Wines range and crafted with 100% Tempranillo that was grown in clay and limestone soils, from vines that average 20 years old. As a Crianza, it was aged for 2 years, with at least 1 year spent in American oak barrels. Let's see how this Tempranillo from Rioja is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MARQUÉS DE GRIÑON CLÁSICO 2018 - Vegan, DOCa Rioja, Spain (#30207) (XD) - $19.95
100% Tempranillo. The medium-high intensity nose is oak spice and dark fruit driven with coconut, dark cherry and blackberry aromas with a hint of floral. On the medium-full bodied palate it offers delicious coconut, oak spice, dark berry, black cherry flavours that leads to a mid-palate with graphite mineral notes. It's supported by tangy, juicy acidity and smooth, supple, nicely textured, and lightly grippy tannins with good structure. Very good length on the crisp, savoury, earthy, mineral-tinged finish. Recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

Other delicious wines by Marqués de Griñon can be ordered through their Agent - Churchill Cellars.

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Cavaliere d'Oro Riserva Chianti Classico 2018 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a consistently well-made and lovely Riserva Chianti Classico that arrived at the LCBO over the weekend in the October 21 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Castello di Gabbiano (CDG), an historic castle and winery whose story began with the construction of the cellars in the year 1124 in the heart of the Chianti region in Tuscany, Italy. In that epoch, the castle belonged to the Bardi family, one of the most important banking families of Florence. In the second half of the 13th century, the family began the extension of the fortress by building perimeter walls and battlements in the typical Guelph style of the era. The castle remained in the Bardi family until the early part of the 15th century, until it was passed on to the Soderini family, one of the most politically influential families in Florence.

The Soderini family converted the turreted family house of Gabbiano in Fattoria, which was completed by the late 15th century. It was during the period of Soderini's ownership, in 1464, when the land survey was presented by Tommaso Soderini to the "Officials" of the Land Registry of the Republic of Florence, where it was noted that wine and oil were the most highly prized produce of the estate.

Over the course of a century, the Soderini family added new buildings on several occasions, as can be deduced from the stonework which revealed various phases of development, until it was converted into a large quadrilateral building, which also formed a kind of private fortalice that was anchored with four cylindrical turrets reinforcing the corners. By 1505, the Soderini family converted the castle into a structure more like the present day version, with a round tower erected at each corner of the castle, displaying French architectural influence. Unfortunately, the Soderini's were declared rebels by the powerful Medici family during a struggle in the 16th century, which led to them being banned from Florence, and the castle abandoned for a long time. However, the Soderini family was able to return to their homeland in the 17th century and gave the castle new life.

From the 19th century onwards, the families who owned the property carried out various restoration works, while fully respecting the architectural features of the castle. One such building is a neo-classical style private chapel that was built in the 19th century while under the ownership of the Del Turco family.

Today, Castello di Gabbiano is owned by the multinational alcoholic beverage company Treasury Wine Estates. Castello di Gabbiano is situated in UGA of Castellina in Chianti and has 147 hectares of vines, of which 109 hectares are DOCG Chianti Classico, with 85% of their vines planted to Sangiovese, while applying certified sustainable viticulture practices across all of their vineyards and respecting the environment. In the winery, ancient traditions are combined with innovation and modern technology. The ancient cellar of the castle, which has been in use since the 14th century, has been skilfully restored while fully respecting the original architecture.

The winemaker at Castello di Gabbiano is Federico Cerelli. He joined CDG in 2011 after gaining 10 years of experience working at prestigious Italian wineries and supervising important winemaking projects in Tuscany and the Chianti Classico wine region. Federico trusts the most traditional practices that, over time, have become established the best - while embracing modern technology. This led to the creation of the first fermentation system with a mechanized and computerized punching down system.

Named Cavaliere d’Oro, which means "The Gold Knight", this red wine is crafted with 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot, using only the finest grapes from their estate vineyards. The fruit parcels from the different sites were kept separate during the vinification and ageing process, providing the winemaker with an enticing range of flavours and textures to create the final, blended wine. The grapes underwent alcoholic fermentation on skins in small, stainless steel tanks, followed by a secondary natural malolactic fermentation - with half in stainless steel and the other half in natural French oak - to help round out the wine while obtaining optimal acidity and freshness. The oak ageing occurred for 10 months in 15 to 30 hectolitre casks and 225 litre barrels, with only 10% new oak, and underwent further maturation for 12 months in bottle prior to release. Let's see how this 2018 Riserva Chianti Classico from Tuscany is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CAVALIERE D'ORO RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2018 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#216309) (XD) - $24.95
This blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot has richly fragrant and spicy aromas rising out of the glass, followed by attractive and captivating notes of pure red cherry, cinnamon, sweet spices, clove, forest floor, and orange citrus with hints of wet earth. The spicy notes continue on the medium-full to full-bodied palate, joined by lovely dark red cherry, savoury oak spices, forest floor, leather, and orange citrus flavours. Some dried herbal characters appear on the juicy mid-palate, with fresh acidity, while the fine-grained tannins are impressively structured. Savoury with touches of mineral and leather linger on the long, juicy finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy to the end of the decade! Score: 91 pts

One other wine from Castello di Gabbiano is available at the LCBO, while other wines from their portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits.

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Domaine Pinson Frères Mont-de-Milieu Chablis 1er Cru 2021 (Burgundy) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is an excellent Chablis Premier Cru that arrived at the LCBO as part of the recent October 7 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection as an Online & Flagship Exclusive - with inventory available both online and in-store.

It is produced by the renowned Domaine Pinson, a winemaking family with a long and storied history in the heart of Chablis that began with the construction of the family cellars in the year 1580. Winemaking in the Pinson family was documented in Chablis up until the year 1640, after which it returned in 1880, when the family farmed vineyards and other crops. In 1940, Louise Pinson and his wife, France, owned approximately 4 hectares of vineyards in the region of Chablis, including the sub-appellations of Chablis 1er Cru Montmain, Mont de Milieu, and Grand Cru Les Clos. Louise and France were dedicated solely to viticulture and the production of Chablis wines, and their Domaine became very popular with visitors.

In 1983, Laurent Pinson, the grandson of Louis, arrived at the Domaine following his studies in Beaune, and worked on the vines with his grandfather, while learning about and respecting the traditions of Chablis. In 1987, Christophe Pinson, the brother of Laurent, started working at the Domaine. At this point, Louis retired from the family business, while Laurent and Christophe took over the Domaine with the desire to see it succeed and grow. The Pinson brothers undertook new plantings on the family land and grew the number of vines to 14 hectares.

Laurent and Christophe further developed the Domaine in 2004 by creating a new vat room, storage buildings, a new pressing room, as well as renovating the two large vaulted cellars intended for ageing wines. In 2008, the next generation of the Pinson family joined the Domaine when Charlène Pinson, daughter of Laurent, arrived at the farm following her studies in viticulture-oenology in Beaune. In 2019, the estate obtained its High Environmental Value (HVE) level 3 designation, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable production practices, including preservation of the environment and protecting biodiversity.

Today, the philosophy at Domain Pinson is that great wines begin with good grapes. Their passion and love for working the vines and the Chablisian soil allows the Pinson family to obtain the best fruit. Growing almost exclusively Chardonnay, all of the grapes are hand-harvested. They respect family traditions, while also applying modern techniques and respecting the environment. With roots in Chablis going back 450 years, the Pinson family remains united in their passion for excellence in wine.

This white wine is crafted with 100% Chardonnay that was grown in the Climat of Mont-de-Milieu The name "Mont-de-Milieu", which means "Mountain in the Middle", refers to peculiarity of this hillside that used to have a boundary running through its middle ("milleu") - one side which was in the jurisdiction of Chablis (which used to be located in the County of Champagne), and the other side which was in Fleys, in the Duchy of Bourgogne. Located on a hillside, Mont de Milieu is protected from the northern winds by the forest. The climate in Mont de Milieu is bathed in sunshine from morning to evening due to its south-southeast exposure to the sun, on an average slope. The soil in this Climat is often said to be homogeneous throughout its 44 hectares with clay and limestone of the Kimmeridgien type with small white limestone pebbles.

From vines averaging 20 years old, the grapes were manually harvested and underwent both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in thermo-regulated vats and (10%) new barrels. The wine was aged on its fine lees in 228 Litre oak barrels for 9 months, with stirring, with the age of the barrels ranging from 2 to 6 years old, and was bottled 12 months after harvest.

From a challenging vintage where the best producers were able to make small quantities of great wines, let's see how this 2021 Mont-de-Milieu Chablis 1er Cru is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

DOMAINE PINSON FRÈRES MONT-DE-MILIEU CHABLIS 1ER CRU 2021 - AC, Burgundy, France (#700914) (XD) - $74.95
100% Chardonnay. Elegant, refined, medium+ to medium-high intensity aromatics offers ripe lemon citrus, stony minerality, and apple with accents of white peach. It's medium-bodied with a lovely chewy, well-structured, and textured mouthfeel with complex, ripe flavours of lemon citrus, apple, oyster-shell, and leesy mineral accented with orange and honey notes, plus touches of vanilla and butter. It's juicy with succulent acidity, and has a chalky textured mouthfeel on the mid-palate. Excellent length on the elegant finish which lingers for minutes, with stony, leesy mineral notes, plus touches of honey and apple. Immensely pleasurable now, but will be even better with a couple of years in the cellar and should drink well to the end of the decade. Highly recommended buy! Score: 94 pts

Other fine wines by Domaine Pinson can be ordered through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia / Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (Australia) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is the latest vintage of a perennial favourite that arrived at the LCBO recently as part of the October 7 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Wakefield Wines, a wine brand used in Canada and other export markets by the well-respected and renowned Taylor family who established their own Bordeaux-style estate in Australia's Clare Valley in 1969. Locally in Australia and other nearby countries, the Taylor family markets their wines under their own family name - Taylors Wines.

After making wines for others for many years, Bill Taylor Sr. and his two sons acquired some land by the Wakefield river in the Clare Valley and set out to produce their own Estate wines where the vineyards and winery are situated in the same location. Once they acquired property, they planted their first vines - Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz - wines which would become the heart and soul of the family business.

Today, the Taylor family is one of Australia's most renowned wine producers. The team is led by the third generation of the family - brothers Mitchell, Justin, and Clinton. Since its founding, the Taylor family has rested on the principle that the finest wines are those made with the greatest dedication and care, while also respecting the fruit. Committed to both the land and sea, sustainability is also a core pillar of the Taylor family as their goal is to apply best practised principles in environmental management to enhance sustainable business activities and products. As a family-owned company, they are committed to ensuring that they operate in a responsible and sustainable manner.

The Taylor family has several ranges of wines, and this particular wine is from their Jaraman range. With this range, the Taylor family searches for parcels of extraordinary fruit from Australia's iconic wine regions to craft wines that showcase their distinctive regional characteristics and style. The fruit for each wine in the Jaraman range is sourced from celebrated Australian wine regions that are renowned for their particular variety - Clare Valley and Coonawarra in the case of this Australian Cabernet Sauvignon. Jaraman wines showcase the skill and dedication of the winemakers to their philosophy of respecting the fruit.

Like the 2020 Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon that I enjoyed earlier this year, this vintage is also composed of 52% Clare Valley fruit and 48% Coonawarra. Crafted with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, it also appears to be vinified using the exact same techniques as the 2020, including oak maturation which occurred in French oak barrels (50% 1-year-old and 50% a combination of 2- and 3-year-old) for a period of 10 to 12 months before being bottled.

From a good-to-excellent vintage that was calm, slightly warmer than average, and just the right amount of sun, let's see how this 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

WAKEFIELD JARAMAN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 - Clare Valley and Coonawarra, South Australia (#142398) (XD) - $24.95
Screw cap. The ripe, medium+ to medium-high intensity nose seems a bit shy, offering minty cassis, blackcurrant, blackberry compote, and oak spice aromas layered over savoury earthy notes. The bright, medium-full bodied palate has lively acidity which lifts the dark fruited, minty cassis, currant, blackberry, oak spice, and earthy flavours. It's gently spicy on the mid-palate and supported by firm, grainy, and lightly grippy tannins that should soften nicely over the next couple of years. Cassis and blackcurrant notes taper to savoury and earthy oak on the crisp, juicy and lingering finish. Enjoy this recommended buy over the next 5-7 years. Score: 90 pts

Many other fine wines by Wakefield Wines can be found at the LCBO, or ordered through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

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October 21, 2023 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: California

Here are my top wine picks from the October 21, 2023 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection, which is titled "Golden State". As is the norm for this time of the year, the releases get bigger and pricier, with 157 products offered in this release, including many Gift and Sampler packs. The most expensive gift pack is over $2,000 and the person receiving it would be a very lucky duck. All of the wines in this release will be available in stores or online by this Saturday.

We begin with the shining wines from the Golden State of California, which include 12 premium-priced wines for your holiday shopping list - and three of which are among my top wine picks. The lone white wine is an always impeccable Chardonnay from Sonoma Mountain. Unsurprisingly, the other two wines are top California Cabernet Sauvignons, with the Cliff Lede version composed of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot, while the Grgich Hills is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 6.5% Merlot, and 6.5% Petit Verdot.

Even though California is the theme of the release, Italy could have made the case for being the mini-theme with many fine offerings from the boot-shaped peninsula. Leading off is the Gran Selezione Chianti Classico, which is a blend of 80% Sangiovese, 13% Merlot, and 7% Malvasia Nera, followed by a pair of Riserva Chianti Classico wines - the 2016 is 100% Sangiovese, while the 2018 Riserva Chianti Classico is a blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot. The last red wine from Italy is the Modus Super Tuscan, which is composed of 44% Sangiovese, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 19% Merlot. Moving westwards to France, the Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a blend of 38% Syrah, 35% Grenache Noir, 25% Mourvèdre, 1% Cinsault, and 1% other permitted varieties, while the Côtes du Rhône Villages is made with 40% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, and 10% Counoise. The last wine from France is from Languedoc and it is a blend of 70% Syrah, 20% Grenache, and 10% Mourvèdre. The last blend is a Malbec from Argentina that actually consists of 90% Malbec, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot.

The only blend among my white picks from the rest of the release is the Marsanne from Niagara, which is actually a blend of 93% Marsanne and 7% Viognier. The other wines include a pair of Sauvignon Blanc wines from New Zealand, a Chardonnay from Chablis, a Chenin Blanc from South Africa, and a Pecorino from Italy. If you prefer an off-dry style of wine (i.e. slightly sweet), you should take a look at the Gewurztraminer from Alsace.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release!

Red Wine:

• S. DELAFONT MOSAÏQUE 2020 - AP Languedoc, France (#31697) (XD) - $19.95
• MONTERRA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 - Vegan, McLaren Vale, South Australia (#12835) (XD) - $21.95
• LA ROSELIÈRE CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES LAUDUN 2020 - AP, France (#31694) (XD) - $21.95
• ZONTE'S FOOTSTEP NATURE'S CRUX SHIRAZ 2020 - Vegan, Fleurieu, South Australia (#33367) (XD) - $21.95
• CAVALIERE D'ORO RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2018 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#216309) (XD) - $24.95  91 pts  wine review
• TEHO ZAHA TOKO VINEYARD MALBEC 2019 - Vegan, Paraje Altamira, Mendoza, Argentina (#441691) (XD) - $25.95

 

• RUFFINO MODUS 2019 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#912956) (XD) - $32.95  91+ pts  wine review
• BACHELDER LES VILLAGES BENCH PINOT NOIR 2021 - VQA Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#11582) (XD) - $34.95
• CASTELLO DI RADDA CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2016 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#31409) (XD) - $43.95
• CHÂTEAU LA NERTHE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2020 - AC, Rhône, France (#735407) (XD) - $64.95
• CASTELLO DI AMA SAN LORENZO GRAN SELEZIONE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2018 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#12751) (XD) - $64.95  94 pts  wine review
• GRGICH HILLS ESTATE GROWN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#71407) (XD) - $109.95
• CLIFF LEDE STAGS LEAP DISTRICT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2019 - Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, USA (#14217) (XD) - $124.95  94 pts  wine review

White Wine:

• PFAFF TRADITION GEWURZTRAMINER 2020 - AC Alsace, France (#29822) (D) - $16.95  89 pts  wine review
• UMANI RONCHI VELLODORO PECORINO 2022 - IGT Terre di Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy (#289553) (XD) - $17.95  89 pts  wine review
• KEW VINEYARDS MARSANNE 2019 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#485334) (XD) - $19.95
• RADFORD DALE VINUM CHENIN BLANC 2022 - Vegan, WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#13338) (XD) - $19.95
• WHITEHAVEN GREG SINGLE VINEYARD RESERVE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022 - Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#325944) (XD) - $25.95
• THE CRATER RIM SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020 - Single vineyard, Waipara, South Island, New Zealand (#26359) (XD) - $29.95
  
• JEAN-MARC BROCARD SAINTE CLAIRE CHABLIS 2021 - AC, Burgundy, France (#356634) (XD) - $34.95
• KISTLER SONOMA MOUNTAIN CHARDONNAY 2021 - Sonoma County, California, USA (#183921) (XD) - $121.95

Fortified Wine:

• TAYLOR FLADGATE HISTORIC LIMITED EDITION RESERVE TAWNY PORT - DOP, Portugal (#581561) (S) - $53.95

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Chakana Finca Los Cedros Malbec 2020 (Argentina) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely organic and vegan Malbec from Paraje Altamira in Argentina that arrived at the LCBO as part of the recent LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on October 7th.

Chakana Wines was founded by the Pelizzatti family in 2002 when they acquired 300 hectares of land in Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina. The Pelizzatti family is originally from the mountainous region of Valtellina in Lombardy, Italy, where their ancestors had a long history of making quality wines. In 2003, Chakana had their first successful grape harvest at Finca Nuna in Agrelo.

Expansion and an exhaustive study of the soils occurred during the decade until tragedy struck in 2009, where late frosts affected 70% of the vines at Finca Nuna. In 2010, a group of families who were inspired by the Pelizzatti family and moved by their passion and strength joined the winery project as shareholders. This has led to further exploration in the search for quality, including developing an appreciation for agroecology (sustainable farming that works with nature) and alternative production methods.

Later in 2010, a 15-hectare farm was purchased south of the Tunuyán River, in Paraje Altamira, and it was named Finca Los Cedros. Further expansion occurred, including exporting wines to international markets, and in 2012 they started the formal transition to organic certification. In 2014, Chakana obtained organic certification for their vineyard and winery in Agrelo, and furthermore, obtained Demeter biodynamic certification in 2016.

As the Pelizzatti family stepped away from the project in 2019, Chakana continues today with this same spirit and purpose under renewed leadership. Chakana is considered one of the benchmarks and models in winegrowing due to their essence and philosophy, including their sustainable and organic winemaking practices. As soil is not only essential for food production, it also serves as a reflection of terroir, and in the search for the best wines, one cannot underestimate the importance of soil or fail to attend to its care or knowledge.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Malbec, a single vineyard wine that was grown at Chakana's Finca Los Cedros vineyard high up in the Paraje Altamira GI at 3,600 feet above sea level, in the district of La Consulta, in the department of San Carlos. The climate in this area is cool and sunny, with good thermal amplitude, but is also relatively more humid than other areas of Mendoza due to its location at the foot of the mountain. The vineyard is drip-irrigated using a reservoir of crystalline meltwater. The grapes were planted at a high density on sandy loam soil with calcareous gravel. The grapes were manually harvested and placed into small boxes. Upon arriving at the winery in Agrelo, the grapes were fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged for 10 months in a combination of 5,000 Litre oak barrels and concrete vats.

The 2020 growing season was a challenging one in Mendoza. The vintage was one of the earliest and warmest on record, and along with low rainfall, led to reduced yields. However, the grape quality was excellent if you were able to pick at the right moment. Let's see how this 2020 Malbec from Argentina is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CHAKANA FINCA LOS CEDROS MALBEC 2020 - Vegan, Paraje Altamira, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (#32142) (XD) - $20.95
Organic and vegan. 100% Malbec. The medium-high intensity nose is rich and spicy with dark fruited aromas of blackberry, violet floral, black cherry, and stony-earthy mineral notes accented with dried herbs and spices. It's medium-full bodied and ripe with chewy, well-structured tannins and juicy acidity that frames the dark fruited, blackberry, violet floral, black cherry, black plum, and mineral flavours with a touch of spice. Some smoky and tea leaf characters add further intrigue on the nicely textured and somewhat chalky and drying mid-palate. Mineral and smoky notes linger on the long, juicy finish. On the bigger, savoury side of Malbec and a highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely Chakana Wines can be ordered through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia / Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Les Vignerons du Castelas Le Monarque Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2022 (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a lovely, organic, Viognier-based white wine blend from Rhône that arrived at the LCBO over the long weekend in the October 7th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Les Vignerons du Castelas, a co-operative winery that was established in 1952 by a handful of winegrowers that were keen to combine their efforts and wills to produce appellation wines of high quality. The co-op is located in Rochefort du Gard, between Pont d'Avignon and Pont du Gard, on the right bank of the Rhône River, and is named after a XII century Romanesque chapel that is perched atop the village. The origins of Rochefort du Gard as a winegrowing village goes back to 1933, when it became one of the first villages to be approved in the, at the time, very young Côtes du Rhône Appellation, officially gained its status within the appellation in 1937.

Following the formation of the co-op, the winery opened its doors three years later, in 1955, on the eve of harvest, and inscribed on the cellar walls was the quote "Less wine but better" - a philosophy that still holds today. Since that time, several generations have followed one another and, together, they continue to make wines with respect for tradition, while also respecting the people and the land.

Today, 45 families of winemakers, who are attached to their land and vineyard, form Les Vignerons du Castelas. Together, they have over 450 hectares of vineyards, mainly in the Côtes du Rhône appellation, with four distinct soil characteristics - deep soils on stony spreads, marl soils, sandy soils, and Villafranchian terraced floors - with each soil type playing an important role in the character of the wine. The families of winegrowers cultivate their quality vines in order to create supple and pleasurable wines for every occasion. The winemakers of Rochefort du Gard are committed, by vocation, to healthy vines on a living soil, to create wines that express the enthusiasm and sincerity of their work accomplished with passion, knowledge, and sensitivity.

The name of this wine - Le Monarque - comes from the butterfly that is found in their region, in the Rhône Valley, and migrates every summer to Africa, travelling more than 4,000 kilometres during its journey. As a wine that seems to show up every couple of years, I last enjoyed the 2019 Les Vignerons du Castelas Le Monarque Côtes du Rhône Blanc just over two years ago. For this vintage, it continues to be a blend of 60% Viognier, 20% Grenache Blanc, and 20% Roussanne, as per the back label. The grapes were grown on sandy marl soils which are mainly composed of clay, limestone, and carbonate sand. The grapes were harvested by machine at night to preserve freshness and underwent a slow, 1-month fermentation in temperature-controlled vats. The wine was matured in concrete tanks and bottled at the property without any added sulphites. Let's see how this 2022 Côtes du Rhône Blanc is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LES VIGNERONS DU CASTELAS LE MONARQUE CÔTES DU RHÔNE BLANC 2022 - AP, France (#18570) (XD) - $17.95
This organic white wine is a blend of 60% Viognier, 20% Grenache Blanc, and 20% Roussanne. Fragrant and highly attractive aromas of yellow and white florals, lemon citrus, ripe apple, and pear with white peach and herbally tones. It's medium-full bodied and impressively concentrated on the fleshy palate with lovely yellow and white floral, lemon citrus, apple, pear, and herbal replays in a dry flavour profile. Some leesy mineral notes appear on the nicely textured, slightly oily palate. Juicy with fresh, zesty acidity, while citrusy, orchard fruit, and leesy mineral notes linger on the long, succulent, and lightly spicy finish. Lots going on here and a highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Other delicious wines by Les Vignerons du Castelas can be ordered through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia / Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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El Petit Bonhomme 2020 (Spain) - Wine Review

After enjoying the delicious 2018 Les Vins Bonhomme El Petit Bonhomme nearly three years ago, tonight's red wine review is the latest vintage of this vegan-friendly wine from Spain that arrived at the LCBO last month as part of the September 23 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Les Vins Bonhomme, a brand of wines that was established by Canadian-born winemaker Nathalie Bonhomme. She was born and raised in Quebec, then left to travel the world over 30 years ago and eventually settled in Spain. Inspired by Nathalie's last name - Bonhomme - which translates to "fellow or man", the label of each Les Vins Bonhomme wine is adorned with a distinctive stickman.

Today, Les Vins Bonhomme is a collaboration of wineries and small, family growers. They produce wines from across Spain with a team of winemakers using grapes from small, family growers, aiming to transport you with each sip to the most interesting corners of Spain. You can expect to discover some enticing vineyards - from the joyful and indigenous Monastrell of the sunny Mediterranean, to the southern version of Cabernet Sauvignon showing its Spanish colours, and to the traditional Tempranillo from the land of castles of Castilla y León. At Les Vins Bonhomme, the key to fabulous wines is picking the best grapes, while seeking to produce fun wines of value and quality.

Like the 2018, this vintage is also composed of 55% Monastrell from 30-year-old vines, 30% Garnacha, and 15% Syrah, and it was produced in collaboration with the prestigious Bodegas Juan Gil and their winemaker, Bartolome Abellán. The grapes were dry-farmed at an elevation of 2,300 feet above sea level, with the Monastrell planted on 5 hectares of calcareous and sandy loam soil. After hand-harvesting the grapes, they underwent cold maceration on the skins, followed by a temperature-controlled fermentation for 2 weeks in small, stainless-steel vats. Each individual wine underwent malolactic fermentation and ageing for 6 months in oak, with the Monastrell and Syrah in 225 L French oak barrels, while the Garnacha was in 300 L American oak, then blended together and bottled.

Monastrell was well-suited to the 2020 growing season, with the quality of the grapes described as "magnificent" by many. With generous yields, the harvest was the best in many years. Let's see how this 2020 red wine from Jumilla is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

EL PETIT BONHOMME 2020 - Vegan, DOP Jumilla, Spain (#16578) (XD) - $16.95
Enclosed by screw cap and a blend of 55% Monastrell from 30-year-old vines, 30% Garnacha, and 15% Syrah. The medium+ intensity nose offers pleasing, ripe, dark fruited, blackberry jam, peppery spice, black plum, and dried herb aromas with hints of rosemary and thyme. On the medium-full bodied palate it has deliciously ripe dark berry, blackberry, black cherry, cassis, currant, and sweet spice favours flecked with black pepper and dried herbs. Acids are juicy, fresh, and well-balanced, while the well-structured tannins are somewhat youthful and drying. Blackberry and black cherry notes taper off to a long, savoury, earthy, and mineral-tinged finish. Best enjoyed over the next 2-3 years. Recommended buy! Score: 88+ pts

Other delicious wines by Les Vins Bonhomme can be ordered through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

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Altugnac Terres Amoureuses 2021 (Limoux) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a lovely Chardonnay (with a splash of Mauzac) from the Limoux appellation in Languedoc that arrived at the LCBO last month as part of the recent LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on September 23rd.

It is produced by Domaine Altugnac, one of two wine estates owned by Collovray et Terrier - two winegrowing families situated in Burgundy and Languedoc. Christian Collovray and Jean-Luc Terrier had been friends since childhood and shared a love for the vines and wine. Their bond grew even closer when they married two sisters, Brigitte and Florence, who also came from a family of winegrowers. Together, the four of them dreamt of creating an estate to make wine from Christian's and his father's vines - a dream that became a reality in 1986.

The story of Domaine Altugnac begins in 1997, when the Collovray & Terrier families arrived in Languedoc with a desire to explore new horizons and take on new challenges. Coming from Burgundy, the quality of the white wines in Languedoc appealed to them, especially those from high in the Aude Valley where mostly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are planted on limestone soils. Harvest dates were within a few days compared to those back in Davayé (Burgundy), while the vegetative cycles were also very similar.

Altugnac is located on the western edge of Languedoc, in the Pyrenean foothills, where the vines flirt with the scrub land and the woods. It is at the crossroads of the Atlantic and Mediterranean winds and experiences sunny days and cool nights. The village of Altugnac is peaceful, dominated by an amphitheatre of mountains, and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes - all an invitation to imagine and create unique wines.

Prior to the arrival of Collovray & Terrier, the domaine was owned by Mr. Ramirez. He was one of the founding members of the association of private cellars, and one of the first to imagine Chardonnay in the Aude Valley. After taking over the domaine, Collovray & Terrier undertook the colossal project to revitalize the 45 hectares of vineyards and rebuild the facilities.

Today, as a family business, six members of the Collovray & Terrier family work within the company, with a strong sense of cohesion, and with the support of a close-knit, loyal, and dedicated team. With roots in agriculture, their philosophy begins in the vineyard by working the soil and respecting the vegetation - prerequisites for healthy, ripe, and high-quality grapes. The objective is perfection, by which they strive to master each step of the winemaking process from vineyard to bottle. They also adapt to the year's weather conditions and evolve and experiment. The goal is to reveal the diversity of their terroirs, while also protecting and developing biodiversity.

This white wine is named "Terrres Amoureuses", which translates to "Lands of Love", and is crafted mainly with Chardonnay that was grown among 30 hectares of vines that were planted in the early 1970s and are some of the oldest in Languedoc. Grown in the Aude Valley at 400 metres above sea level, the terroir consists of clay and limestone soils that are covered with a gravelly surface layer composed of black earth rich in schist debris, which is typical of the area and unique to Antugnac. At this altitude, the vines have a south/south-easterly aspect while facing the Pyrenees, while also having great exposure to the sun, winds, and a micro-climate that favours a slow and long maturation period. Overall, the valley has a Mediterranean climate with mountain influences, and experiences dramatic diurnal temperatures between days and nights.

To craft this white wine, which is mainly Chardonnay and a small amount of Mauzuc, the grapes were harvested manually and delicately loaded into the press by gravity. The grapes are slowly pressed and decanted into stainless steel tanks. After settling, the juice is transferred by gravity into barrels to undergo alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. The wine remains in barrels, with only 20% new, and is aged on fine lees for a further 10 to 12 months. The wines are then assembled with their lees and undergo further ageing in stainless steel vats prior to bottling the following spring. Let's see how this 2021 white wine from Limoux is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

ALTUGNAC TERRES AMOUREUSES 2021 - AP Limoux, Languedoc, France (#16413) (XD) - $26.95
Primarily Chardonnay with a splash of Mauzac, this barrel-fermented white wine has a fresh, medium-high intensity nose that offers attractive and ripe stone fruit, pear, quince, apple, and citrus aromas which mingle with mealy and earthy mineral notes. On the medium-full bodied palate it is dry and ripe with apple, quince, pear, and lemon citrus flavours joined by lovely mealy and mineral notes, plus touches of vanilla and a twist of honey adding further complexity. Elegant, structured, and finely textured with fresh, juicy acidity, while mealy, mineral, stone fruit, and citrus notes with a touch of spice linger on long, flavourful finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely wines by Altugnac and Collovray et Terrier can be ordered through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

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

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

White Wine:

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

Sparkling Wine:

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

Fortified Wine:

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

Dessert Wine:

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

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Neiss Bockenheim Pinot Noir 2019 (Pfalz) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely, vegan-friendly, and sustainable Pinot Noir (locally known as Spätburgunder) from the Pfalz wine region in Germany. This red wine is brand new to the LCBO, arriving as part of the recent September 23rd LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Weingut Neiss, a well-known, family-owned winery located in the town of Kindenheim within the Pfalz wine region in southwestern Germany. The Neiss family has a long history of winemaking, going back many generations, and are known for their dedication to producing top-quality wines from a diverse range of grape varieties.

Today, the winery is managed by Axel Neiss, the 6th generation of the family, and his wife, Katja. The winery is located in the far north of the Palatinate. The hillside vineyards are located in the same region, in Kindenheim, Bockenheim, and Zell, and up to 250 meters above sea level, which is significantly higher than comparable locations in the Northern Palatinate.The grapes in this area naturally benefit from a cooler climate due to westerly winds which ventilate the exposed vineyards and extends the growing season. The grapes are also influenced by the clearly visible lime content in the soil. The vines are a high proportion of old, deeply rooted vines which are nearly 50 years old. This terroir helps produce wines with moderate alcohol levels, great depth of taste, fully developed aromas, and refreshing acidity, as well as naturally dense, compact, and powerful wines that are characterized by fresh elegance and stimulating lightness.

The wine philosophy of Axel Neiss is future-oriented and with an extra portion of handwork, as well as working close to nature. Their focus is on sustainable and environmentally-friendly winemaking practices, which not only ensures the health of the vineyards, but also contributes to the overall quality of their wines. In the mid-1990s, the winery actively switched to controlled, environmentally friendly viticulture. In 2013, they joined the Fair'n Green association, a German system for sustainable viticulture, as a founding member. In 2021, Winegut Neiss became one of the few German wineries to be certified CO2-neutral.

This Pinot Noir is from Neiss winery's Local Range of wines - wines with clear origins. All of their wines in the Local Range come from their best vineyards within the municipality of Bockenheim, a region that showcases the calcareous terroir, fruit, and minerality. The grapes were grown to low-harvest yields in a cool climate on sand, loam, mineral limestone, and clay soils. Selectively hand-picked, the grapes were mash fermented for 6-8 days, then pressed into a combination of barriques and large wooden barrels, where the wine matured for 12 months prior to bottling.

The growing season in Pfalz in 2019 began with vines budding in mid-April and blossoming in early-to-mid June. The dry weather in July and August caused problems for the vines in the Palatinate region, while rainfall was 50 to 60 percent less than normal, resulting in many small-grained grapes, while some were also damaged from sunburn due to the extreme heat in July. Harvest was largely completed by the end of September, prior to the continuous rain that set in. The quality of the harvested grapes is very satisfying, with the first young wines presenting themselves in a fruity and rather light manner, with clearly pronounced varietal aromas, ripe tannins, and good colour expression due to the smaller berries. While this vintage was not the easiest, it is considered to be an exceptional vintage. Let's see how this 2019 Pinot Noir from Pfalz is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

NEISS BOCKENHEIM PINOT NOIR 2019 - Vegan, sustainable, Pfalz, Germany (#25769) (XD) - $30.95
The intense nose is fragrant and highly aromatic with lovely, complex wet earth, minerality, raspberry, black cherry, cinnamon, beetroot, and spice aromas. Even some tea leaf notes with time in the glass. It is medium+ bodied and dry with delicious black cherry, raspberry, and cola flavours surrounding a savoury, wet earth core, and accented with cinnamon and spices. Acids are fresh and juicy, while fine-grained tannins are lightly grippy. Some tomato leaf notes add further complexity on the mid-palate. Earthy and minerally on the long, savoury, and crisp finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely wines by Weingut Neiss can be ordered through their Agent - DBINO David Beauroy Selections.

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Hãhã Sauvignon Blanc 2022 (New Zealand) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a lovely, sustainably-crafted Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand that landed at the LCBO last month as part of the September 9 LCBO VINTAGES Release.

It is produced by Hãhã Wine, a winery based in the Hawke's Bay wine region, on the North Island of New Zealand. It was founded by three families who came together to share their passion for wine. This partnership is at the foundation of a sharing and caring culture that is carried out in all aspects of the winemaking process, from vineyard to bottle. With a background in farming and fishing export, the company has a deep respect for the land. To go along with a strong commitment to an environmentally responsible approach, all of Hãhã Wine vineyards, wineries, and bottling facilities are certified 100% sustainable by Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand.

The name of this wine producer comes from the Māori language of Te Reo, where Hãhã means to catch your breath. The breath of conversation which brings us together also leads to discussions and reflections, and the memories and stories binding the past to the present and the present to future ventures. The breath weaves worlds together and is the inspiration behind the Hãhã logo.

As a family-owned winery, they are focused and quality-driven, while also built on a generosity of spirit towards each other and the land. Internationally acclaimed, Hãhã's range of premium quality wines are a true expression of both the long, warm summers of Marlborough and the temperate climate of Hawke’s Bay, while also sharing a place, a time, and a belonging. With an uncompromising commitment to quality, Hãhã wines are now one of New Zealand's fastest growing wine brands and are available across the world.

Crafted with 100% Sauvignon Blanc, the grapes for this white wine were harvested early in the morning from vineyards situated in the Wairau and Awatere Valleys. The grapes were lightly pressed, while the juice was cool-fermented with selected yeasts to preserve the aromatic characters of the fruit.

The 2022 growing season in New Zealand was the warmest ever recorded. Along with favourable rain post-flowering, the warm temperatures helped deliver a fantastic fruit crop. Harvest was early and compact, which allowed the talented winemaker at Hãhã to produce fabulous, well-balanced, and flavourful wines that rival the last two vintages. Let's see how this 2022 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

HÃHÃ SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#388363) (XD) - $18.95
Sustainably crafted and enclosed by screw cap, this has a clean, fragrant, fresh, and well-balanced nose of ripe tropical fruit, guava, passion fruit, kiwi, lime citrus, grassy, and herbal aromas. On the dry, mid-weighted palate it offers deliciously ripe lime citrus, passion fruit, guava, grassy, and herbal flavour replays joined by some mineral notes. It's all supported by fresh and lively acidity. It is composed, elegant, and nicely balanced throughout with lime citrus, guava, and mineral notes lingering on the long, succulent, and juicy finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Other delicious wines by Hãhã Wine can be purchased at the LCBO, or through their Agent - Perigon Beverage Group.

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