June 22, 2024 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: Online & Flagship Exclusives

Here's my top wine picks from the June 22, 2024 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection, which is an Online & Flagship Exclusives release. There are forty-two wines in this release, with thirteen included among my top wine picks. As noted by the title of the release, all the wines will be available for purchase only online through LCBO.com, and the 16 Flagship Stores that are located mostly in and around Toronto, and a few other cities in Ontario. All of these wines can be purchased by this Saturday.

While there is no theme to the release, it could have very well been South Africa as they had a number of lovely wines in this release, including four wines among my top wine recommendations. The vintage sparkling wine and the white wine from South Africa are both crafted with Chardonnay, while the red wine from WO Piekenierskloof is made with Grenache. One of the few red blends in the release is the Black Rock, which is composed of 43% Syrah, 19% Cinsault, 16% Carignan, 14% Grenache, and 8% Mourvèdre.

Most of my other red wine recommendations from this release are mono-varietal wines, with the only blend being the Chianti Classico, which is made predominantly with Sangiovese. The other two wines are a Cabernet Sauvignon from McLaren Vale, and a Barbera from Piedmont.

Among my top white wine picks, almost all the wines are single varietal wines. The only blend is the fine Santorini Assyrtiko which includes 5% Aïdani. Single varietal wines include the lovely Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley, as well as a Gewürztraminer from Niagara. If you prefer sweeter wines, seek out the excellent Riesling Kabinett from Mosel. The last wine is a skin contact Viognier from Colchagua Valley, otherwise known as an Orange Wine.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• REVA BARBERA D'ALBA SUPERIORE 2021 - DOC, Piedmont, Italy (#36427) (XD) - $29.95
• RADFORD DALE BLACK ROCK 2020 - Vegan, WO Swartland, South Africa (#485490) (XD) - $29.95
• VILLA CALCINAIA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2020 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#974006) (XD) - $32.95
• KEN FORRESTER THE MISFITS GRENACHE 2022 - WO Piekenierskloof, South Africa (#37380) (XD) - $34.95  92+ pts  wine review
• PERTARINGA TIPSY HILL SINGLE VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018 - McLaren Vale, South Australia (#20408) (XD) - $95.00

White Wine:

• RIVERVIEW ANGELINA'S RESERVE GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2020 - VQA Niagara River, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada (#511642) (XD) - $25.15  90+ pts  wine review
• SIEGEL NARANJO VIOGNIER 2022 - Skin contact, Sustainable, Valle de Colchagua, Chile (#37759) (XD) - $26.95
• RADFORD DALE CHARDONNAY 2021 - Vegan, WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#37732) (XD) - $29.95
• MAX FERD. RICHTER ELISENBERGER RIESLING KABINETT 2022 - Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany (#665984) (S) - $31.95
• LA CREMA RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY CHARDONNAY 2021 - Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, USA (#67231) (XD) - $54.95  91+ pts  wine review
• MIKRA THIRA ASSYRTIKO 2021 - PDO Santorini, Greece (#37210) (XD) - $69.95

Rosé Wine:

• CAVES D'ESCLANS ROCK ANGEL ROSÉ 2022 - AC Côtes de Provence, France (#491027) (XD) - $48.95

Sparkling Wine:

• PIERRE JOURDAN BLANC DE BLANCS CAP CLASSIQUE 2017 - Traditional method, WO Franschhoek, South Africa (#32668) (XD) - $41.00

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Mega Spileo Assyrtiko 2022 (Greece) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is yet another lovely white wine from Greece. This refreshing Assyrtiko arrived at the LCBO as part of the recent LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on June 8th.

Like the lovely 2022 Mega Spileo Malagousia that I enjoyed last month, this white wine is also produced by the historic and significant winery and monastery - Mega Spileo Estate.

Situated near the town of Kalavryta, in the Achaea region of northern Peloponnese, Mega Spileo holds a special place in Greek orthodox tradition and history. It is built into the side of a steep cliff overlooking the Vouraikos Gorge and offers stunning natural views of the landscape. Originally established in 362 A.D. by brothers who were also monks, the monastery added vine cultivation to its lands around the mid-15th century. The grapes were used by the monks to produce wine for both the Holy Communion and a nutritious dietary supplement. During this period, a massive barrel called "Angelis" was acquired and used to store 12 tonnes of wine - a barrel which still survives to this day.

In 1999, the latest chapter of the long and storied history of Mega Spileo Estate began after brothers Giannis and Theodoros Anastasiou received a long-term lease on the Estate from the Monastery. The vision of the Anastasiou brothers was to revitalize the historical vineyard using a team of experienced oenologists and wine producers. In order to create a completely new and unique estate, the team re-planted the vines and implemented best practices in the vineyard and winery, including protecting the environment and using sustainable agricultural techniques. The process led to the cultivation of high-quality grapes, which in turn to the production of high-quality wines, resulting in Mega Spileo Estate becoming a significant point of reference for Greek wine production.

Today, Mega Spileo Estate is situated just a few minutes away from the historic monastery, and within the UNESCO Chelmos-Vouraikos Global Geopark, which covers an area of 647 sq. km. It was included as part of the UNESCO program in 2015 thanks to its unique characters - a combination of rare geological, natural, and cultural elements. The area surrounding the Estate has tall mountains, plateaus, sheer gorges, ancient trees, wild herbs, flowers, and cool breezes, all of which come together to create a unique micro-climate.

Crafted with 100% Assytriko, the grapes were grown on mountain vineyards in Aigialeia and Kalavryta, at an altitude of more than 700 metres above sea level. After harvesting the grapes in late-September, it underwent a static racking of the grape must for 48 hours, followed by a low-temperature, alcoholic fermentation using selected yeasts. The wine stayed in contact with its fine lees for 3 months in stainless steel tanks, after which one-third of the wine was transferred into oak barrels and matured for a further 3 months, then reassembled and bottled. Let's see how this 2022 Assyrtiko from Greece is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MEGA SPILEO ASSYRTIKO 2022 - PGI Achaia, Greece (#31680) (XD) - $22.95
Fresh and fragrant, the medium-high intensity nose offers lovely, slightly perfumed aromas of ripe lemon citrus, orchard fruit, apple, pear, and mineral notes with touches of spice. It's mid-weighted on the palate with a fine, textural mouthfeel that supports the ripe, lightly honeyed flavours of lemon citrus, leesy mineral, ripe apple/pear, grapefruit, and mild spice notes. Complex and nicely balanced with fresh, lively acidity, and a gently chalky textured mouthfeel. Spice notes taper to leesy minerals and lime citrus on the long, textured finish. Chill and enjoy this highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Other lovely wines by Mega Spileo can be found at the LCBO, or ordered through their Agent - Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits.

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La Ferme du Mont Le Ponnant Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2022 (France) - Wine Review

To celebrate Father's Day, tonight's red wine review is an excellent GSM-blend Côtes du Rhône-Villages that is a frequent visitor to the LCBO, with the latest vintage arriving on shelves across Ontario last weekend in the June 8 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by La Ferme du Mont, a notable winery situated in the Southern Rhône Valley of France. La Ferme du Mont is a relatively new project in the context of French winemaking, led by winemaker Stéphane Vedeau, and has gained notoriety for its high-quality wines and attention to detail.

With more than two decades of experience as a viticulturist and winemaker, Stéphane Vedeau is a 3rd generation winemaker who continues the traditions from his mother's side of the family. Stéphane has a deep understanding of the Rhône Valley's terroir and winemaking traditions. With La Ferme du Mont, the aim is to create wines that express the unique characteristics of the terroir, emphasizing minimal intervention in the winemaking process to allow the terroir to shine through.

In the vineyard, the goal is harmony. The plants live in a permanent equilibrium in the middle of a biotope rich in different species. The goal is to have the healthiest grapes, which take up most of the time and effort, as well as grapes that are balanced and in harmony with the plant and the natural environment, as well as be in harmony of fruit, juices, and breeding.

Having tasted several vintages of this red wine in the past, this is generally a Grenache-led blend, with this 2022 vintage composed of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre. The grapes were grown in the Southern Rhône Valley in a region dominated by a rocky peak and rounded stones in the vineyards, while the climate is warm, dry, and influenced by the powerful Mistral winds. The combination of these factors allows Stéphane to use an environmentally-friendly approach to viticulture, with minimal intervention. To vinify this wine, the grapes were lightly pressed and then underwent a long fermentation of 5 to 6 weeks, with soft extractions. To fully express the terroir, two-thirds of the wine was matured in concrete tubs for at least 8 months, out of contact with air, while the remaining was aged 225 L and 500 L barrels to increase complexity. The wine is bottled without filtration.

The 2022 growing season was marked by intense heat and drought. The year began with a dry winter that saw very little rain, followed by a spring that rapidly warmed up, although April did experience a fleeting cold snap. Budburst and flowering were a success, even though temperatures continued to rise. May was abnormally hot, while rain in June brought some relief. The summer months were marked by heat and drought, conditions which keep rot and disease at bay. The vines were revived in August thanks to some humidity, and benefited the red grape varieties Grenache and Syrah. Overall, grape quality is high, which will produce some sophisticated, age-worthy wines. Let's see how this 2022 Côtes du Rhône-Villages red wine from the Southern Rhône Valley is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LA FERME DU MONT LE PONNANT CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2022 - AP, unfiltered, France (#171371) (XD) - $26.95
This lovely GSM blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre has a lifted, medium-high to highly aromatic, and complex nose of black cherry, raspberry, kirsch liqueur, black peppercorn, and spice with hints of stony minerality. On the medium-full bodied palate it is chewy, ripe, dry, slightly warming and spicy with delicious dark berry-cherry, black raspberry, black peppercorn, stony mineral, and earthy flavours. Acids are crisp and refreshing, while the smooth tannins have some structural and textured grip. Lovely stony mineral notes linger on the long, grippy finish. Should drink nicely to the end of the decade. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

One other lovely wine by La Ferme du Mont is available at the LCBO, while the entire range can be ordered through their Agent - Eurovintage Wines & Spirits.

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Zacharias Assyrtiko 2022 (Greece) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a lovely Assyrtiko from Greece that arrived at the LCBO last weekend as part of the June 8th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Zacharias Winery, a notable family-owned winery that was established over 30 years ago in the Nemea region, which is situated in the northeastern part of the Peloponnese, in Greece.

The Zacharias family has forty hectares of blessed land located on slopes that embrace the village of Leontio. The family's vineyards on these lands are spread sluggishly, offering the finest fruit for the production of high-quality wines. Zacharias plants thirteen grape varieties, including top indigenous varieties such as Agiorgitiko, Assyrtiko, Moschofilero, Roditis, and Mavrodaphne, as well as international varieties. With small yields and an integrated environmental management system which respects both nature and man, the juices from these grapes create quality wines.

Situated 115 km southwest of Athens, historically, Nemea was better known for the famous feat of Hercules who exterminated the terrible Lion of Nemea that inhabited the area. According to legend, the son of the god of wine, Dionysus, reigned this land and founded a city that bore his name - Fliounta. Nemea used to be called Agios Georgios, from the homonymous Byzantine church from which the famous grape variety - Agiorgitiko - took its name. Winegrowing, including the Agiorgitiko variety, and the production of wine in the region date back to 2000 B.C.

For the Zacharias family, the art of winemaking has been more than a passion for over 30 years. As the most historic winery in Nemea, since 1974, it has continuously offered a vision, mood, and work ethic to qualitatively improve the wines made with Agiorgitiko. The aim of Zacharias Winery is to offer approachable wines with a unique identity, while preserving the tradition and dissemination of grape varieties of the PDO Nemea and PGI Peloponnese appellations, which are an integral part of the cultural heritage of the place.

The production area in and around Nemea is quite extensive, ranging from 200 metres up to 850 metres above sea level, with most of the area's vineyards planted on slopes. The climate in the region is the typical Mediterranean climate, with average annual temperatures of 17°C, and average annual rainfall of 750 mm. The soil in the vineyards have average organic content, with moderate alkaline pH, and a relatively high content of calcium carbonate.

To craft this 100% Assyrtiko, the grapes were grown within the PGI Peloponnese appellation, the southernmost of the Balkan peninsula and Greece's largest and most productive wine region. After hand-harvesting the grapes in late-September, they underwent a cold maceration for 12 hours, followed by a cooler fermentation in stainless steel vats. Let's see how this 2022 Assyrtiko from Greece is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

ZACHARIAS ASSYRTIKO 2022 - PGI Peloponnese, Greece (#588814) (XD) - $18.95
Fresh and fragrant, the inviting, medium-high intensity nose offers lovely yellow flowers, ripe lemon citrus, and melon aromas accented with fresh herbs and anise notes. On the dry, well-structured, medium-full bodied palate it is ripe and very lightly honeyed with delicious lemon citrus, floral, melon, and herbal replays on the flavour profile. It's supported by crisp and refreshing acidity, along with some spice notes and a fine, chalky textured mouthfeel on the mid-palate. Crisp and fresh, with leesy mineral notes lingering on the long, juicy finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Other fine wines by Zacharias Winery can be found at the LCBO, or ordered through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

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Deep Woods Margaret River Chardonnay 2023 (Australia) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a lovely Chardonnay from Margaret River in Western Australia. It is brand-new to the LCBO and arrived on shelves across the province as part of last weekend's LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on June 8th.

It is produced by Deep Woods Estate, a Margaret River gem that was established in 1987 by Dr. Thomas Cullity. The founder was a fan of the popular comic "Phantom" and named the winery Deep Woods, a fictitious location from the comic, while also designing the logo based on the Phantom ring. In 1992, Deep Woods was acquired by the Gould family.

In 2005, Deep Woods Estate was purchased by the Fogarty family, a wine group currently run by Peter and Lee Fogarty, and is one of a number of wine estates owned by Fogarty Wine Group. Under the guidance of the Fogarty group, Deep Woods has been transformed into one of Margaret River's most highly regarded wineries. Wine production at Deep Woods is based on a combination of traditional philosophy using modern techniques. The talented team is led by Chief Winemaker Julian Langworthy, who produces wines of prestige and provenance.

The Estate is situated in the heart of the Yallingup Hills in Margaret River, Western Australia, perched high on a ridge overlooking the valley and surrounded by large jarrah and marri trees. The terroir in this area is unique with soils that are comprised of deep, sandy gravels over clay, as well as a dual maritime influence from both the Indian Ocean and Geographe Bay - factors that contribute to this world-class wine region.

After being acquired by the Fogarty family, the vineyards were re-worked and a new maintenance program was introduced to utilize sustainable vineyard practices to improve fruit quality and produce small, higher-quality yields. As of 2024, Deep Woods' vineyards are certified sustainable under Sustainable Winegrowing Australia, a process which has led to outstanding fruit and superior wines, including award-winning Chardonnay that is processed and bottled in small batches on-site. Sustainable viticultural practices, together with Margaret River's exceptional and unique terroir, help deliver high-quality fruit year after year, which is then used to craft high quality wines across a number of ranges in the pursuit of excellence.

This white wine is from Deep Woods' Estate range of wines that display individual varietal character and represent incredible value in the Margaret River wine region. Crafted with 100% Chardonnay, the fruit was sourced from vineyards across the Margaret River wine region. It was fermented using wild yeast and left to mature on its lees for six months in new and seasoned French oak to impart great texture and length.

The 2023 growing season in Margaret River began with a mild spring with adequate soil moisture, which resulted in a slightly later start to the season. The moderate summer led to ideal ripening conditions, with little pressure in the vineyard, including the lack of any major rain events. Consistently warm days and cool evenings allow for great acid retention within the grapes, while also achieving optimal fruit expression. From an excellent vintage, let's see how this 2023 Margaret River Chardonnay is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

DEEP WOODS MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAY 2023 - Margaret River, Western Australia (#33569) (XD) - $19.95
Screw cap. The fragrant, medium-high intensity nose leads with smoky, mineral, barrel-influenced aromas layered over apple, pear, orchard fruit, lemon citrus, nutty, and leesy notes. The dry, medium-full bodied palate is more fruit forward with ripe apple, pear, lemon citrus flavours mingling with smoky oak, leesy mineral, and spice notes, plus a tinge of honey adding further complexity. It's nicely balanced with a slightly chalky textured mouthfeel, with some sense of elegance. Acids are juicy and succulent. Leesy mineral notes linger on the long, savoury finish. Enjoy to the end of the decade. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

One other lovely wine by Deep Woods Estate can be found at the LCBO, while the entire portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Eurovintage Wines & Spirits.

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Born Rambla Rosé 2023 (Spain) - Wine Review

Today is National Rosé Day, and for tonight's rosé wine review I opened a lovely, organic, dry rosé from the Penedès region in Spain. It is a brand-new arrival at the LCBO that landed in stores across Ontario today as part of the theme on rosé wines in the June 8 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Born Rosé, a trendy wine brand that was established by a group of women in Barcelona who are passionate about rosé wines. Together, they have poured their energy, expertise, and savings into producing fine, Mediterranean rosé.

The leader of this group is Jana Robles, a Barcelona-based entrepreneur who loves rosé wine. She merged her passion for rosé wine with international business, which included years of experience living in the U.S.A., China, and the Netherlands. With a thirst for constant learning, Jana's global vision redefines her role as CEO and founder of Born Rosé on a daily basis.

As the rosé of Barcelona, each of their wines, all of which are rosé, are 100% organic, dry, light, pale, and with low alcohol levels. Born Rosé makes several rosé wines, including sparkling rosé, and rosé in convenient cans. The brand is noted for its stylish, minimalist, and modern packaging.

A relatively new winery with medals in tow, Born Rosé asserts that the best rosé is produced in the Mediterranean region, which connects Provence, Languedoc, and Barcelona. The Greeks planted their first vineyards 2,600 years ago and spread their culture of wine to the Mediterranean region - regions which share the same climate, land, and the Grenache grape variety, with Born Rosé contributing their know-how and passion. Let's see how this dry rosé from Spain is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

BORN RAMBLA ROSÉ 2023 - Penedès, Spain (#37863) (XD) - $15.95
Certified organic, this pretty pale salmon pink coloured dry rosé is a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Tempranillo. Fresh, elegant, medium+ to medium-high intensity aromas of peach, strawberry, and red cherry with hints of mineral, dried herb, and spice. On the dry, concentrated, medium-full bodied palate it has delicious citrus, grapefruit, peach, strawberry, and cherry flavours, with a touch of honeyed notes supported by very good, juicy acidity. Fine texture with subtle spice notes on the mid-palate. It's nicely balanced throughout with grapefruit, citrus, and spice notes tapering to mineral on the juicy finish, with very good length. Enjoy this recommended buy over the summer! Score: 89 pts

Other delicious wines by Born Rosé can be ordered through their Agent - Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits.

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June 8, 2024 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: Rosé

Here are my top wine picks from the June 8, 2024 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection, which features Rosé Wines from Around the World is the theme of the release. It is a big release with over 125 wines offered. Included in the printed magazine is a sneak preview of the next release, which will be an Online & Flagship Exclusives only release. All the wines from this release are already in stores, and can also be ordered online.

We'll begin with the theme on Rosé wines, of which twenty-two are featured as part of the theme and seven are included among my top rosé wine picks. At the top of the list is a locally crafted rosé from Niagara that is a blend of 94% Pinot Noir and 6% Viognier. The rosé from Provence is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault, while the rosé from the Rhône Valley is composed of mainly Grenache, plus Mourvèdre and Cinsault. The rosé from Spain is also Grenache-based and made with 60% Grenache and 40% Tempranillo, while the rosé from Tuscany is, somewhat unsurprisingly, a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot. The only mono-varietal rosés are from Chile and the Loire Valley in France, and both are crafted using 100% Pinot Noir.

Among my top red wine recommendations, Tuscany really shines with five recommendations. At the top of this list is the Brunello di Montalcino, which is crafted with Sangiovese Grosso, while the other Tuscan wines are all blends. The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is mainly Sangiovese (~80%), while the Riserva Chianti Classico is composed of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Colorino. The Bolgheri Rosso is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, while the Super Tuscan by Avignonesi is composed of precisely 50.82% Sangiovese, 24.58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23.51% Merlot, 0.78% Syrah, and 0.30% Canaiolo. Moving to France, there are a couple of Grenache-led Rhône Valley wines, with the Rasteau made with 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre, and 5% Carignan, while the Côtes du Rhône-Villages is a blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre. The last blend is from Portugal, and it is a blend of 30% Tinta Roriz, 30% Touriga Nacional, and 20% Syrah. Only a few of my red wine picks are single varietal wines, and among them is the Rioja that is made with Tempranillo.

There is only one blend among my white wine picks - a 70/30 blend of Loureiro and Alvarinho. There are a trio of Chardonnay wines - one each from the Sonoma Coast, Napa Valley, and Margaret River, as well as a pair of Assyrtiko wines from Greece. Wines that are a bit rare to see here in Ontario are a Pinot Bianco from northern Italy, and the Godello from Bierzo. If you enjoy some sweetness in your wines, look for the Riesling from Niagara.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release!

Red Wine:

• CASA SANTOS LIMA QUID PRO QUO RED 2021 - Vegan, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal (#37768) (XD) - $11.95  88+ pts  wine review
• MONTES LIMITED SELECTION PINOT NOIR 2022 - DO Aconcagua Costa, Chile (#37937) (XD) - $15.95  88+ pts  wine review
• AVIGNONESI CANTALORO 2019 - Vegan, IGT Toscana, Italy (#36519) (XD) - $18.95
• MARQUÉS DE CÁCERES EXCELLENS CUVÉE ESPECIAL COLECCIÓN PRIVADA CRIANZA 2019 - Vegan, DOCa Rioja, Spain (#10684) (XD) - $18.95
• RHONÉA TRADITION RASTEAU 2021 - AP, Rhône, France (#998716) (XD) - $19.95  88+ pts  wine review
• ROCCA DELLE MACÌE RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2020 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#930966) (XD) - $23.95  91 pts  wine review

 

• VECCHIA CANTINA RISERVA VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2016 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#36523) (XD) - $23.95  91+ pts  wine review
• MADONNA DELLE GRAZIE LISCONE 2018 - DOC Aglianico del Vulture, Basilicata, Italy (#36549) (XD) - $24.95
• LA FERME DU MONT LE PONNANT CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2022 - Unfiltered, AP, France (#171371) (XD) - $26.95  91 pts  wine review
• LE MACCHIOLE BOLGHERI ROSSO 2021 - DOC, Tuscany, Italy (#483412) (XD) - $42.95
• WYNNS COONAWARRA ESTATE BLACK LABEL CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 - Coonawarra, South Australia (#84996) (XD) - $44.95
• LA TORRE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2018 - Estate Bottled, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#17626) (XD) - $64.95

White Wine:

• MARIA PAPOILA LOUREIRO/ALVARINHO 2022 - DOC Vinho Verde, Portugal (#408146) (XD) - $17.95  89 pts  wine review
• GODELIA BODEGA SELECCION PARCELAS LA PELONA GODELLO 2023 - DO Bierzo, Spain (#37706) (XD) - $17.95
• ZACHARIAS ASSYRTIKO 2022 - PGI Peloponnese, Greece (#588814) (XD) - $18.95  90 pts  wine review
• DEEP WOODS MARGARET RIVER CHARDONNAY 2023 - Margaret River, Western Australia (#33569) (XD) - $19.95  90+ pts  wine review
• TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA RIESLING 2022 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#89029) (M) - $19.95
• MEGA SPILEO ASSYRTIKO 2022 - PGI Achaia, Greece (#31680) (XD) - $22.95  90 pts  wine review
• NALS MARGREID BERG PINOT BIANCO 2022 - DOC Südtirol Alto Adige, Italy (#36511) (XD) - $22.95
• STAGS' LEAP CHARDONNAY 2022 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#655381) (XD) - $44.95
• KISTLER LES NOISETIERS CHARDONNAY 2022 - Unfiltered and Unfined, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, USA (#251223) (XD) - $139.95

Rosé Wine:

• BORN RAMBLA ROSÉ 2023 - Penedès, Spain (#37863) (XD) - $15.95  89 pts  wine review
• CASAS DEL BOSQUE BOTANIC SERIES PINOT NOIR ROSÉ 2023 - Sustainable, Las Dichas, Valle de Casablanca, Chile (#15277) (XD) - $16.95  89 pts  wine review
• RICASOLI ALBIA ROSÉ 2023 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#556266) (XD) - $18.95
• FAMILLE PERRIN TAVEL 2023 - AC, Rhône, France (#680801) (XD) - $23.95
• HIDDEN BENCH LOCUST LANE ROSÉ 2023 - Sustainable, VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#68833) (XD) - $24.95  92 pts  wine review
• SAINT AIX ROSÉ 2023 - AP Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, France (#451906) (XD) - $26.95
• JEAN-MAX ROGER LA GRANGE DÎMIÈRE SANCERRE ROSÉ 2023 - AC, Loire, France (#490813) (XD) - $29.95

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Rhonéa Tradition Rasteau 2021 (Rhône) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a delicious Southern Rhône Valley red from the Cru Rasteau appellation that is arriving at the LCBO this weekend as part of the June 8th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection - and is available in many stores already.

It is produced by Cave de Rasteau - Rhonéa (formerly Ortas), a co-operative winery that was formed after the merger of two historic co-operatives who had deep roots in the Rhône Valley going back to the year 1925. As a co-operative, Rhonéa is today a collective of 400 families of Artisan Winegrowers who have over a combined 2,900 hectares of vineyards that have been cultivated in Rhône's terroirs for 3 to 4 generations.

The initial project at the beginning of the 20th century consisted of only a handful of passionate and visionary families who laid the first stones of the village wineries. Their aim was to create a shared asset which put everyone's talents to use in order to provide the best conditions for producing, ageing and selling wines.

Rhonéa is the innovative, new generation co-operative model made up of 400 families who are winegrowers with small vineyards averaging 10 hectares each. They are united with a common passion, but with know-how that has been passed on from one generation to the next to create their own, unique stories. With perfect knowledge of their terroirs, plots, and grape varieties, they aim to reveal the very best of them. All Rhonéa winegrowers are committed to ethical and sustainable winegrowing, vintage after vintage. The main mission of Rhonéa is to craft wines that are accessible, without compromising on quality, while also innovating with sustainability commitments, which includes social responsibility and environmental protection, at the top of mind.

I enjoyed a previous incarnation of this wine, the 2017 Ortas Tradition Rasteau, nearly five years ago, and like that wine, this edition is also mainly Grenache. In fact, this edition is a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre, and 5% Carignan. The grapes were grown on terraces of clay, limestone, and pebbles on the plain, and blue marls on the hills situated between 200 and 250 metres altitude, facing the Dentelles de Montmirail. After manually harvesting, sorting, and destemming the grapes, they underwent a traditional vinification with long maceration and partial punching down.

The 2021 growing season for red grape varieties presented many difficulties with frost, hail, and rain. With poor weather, disease, pests, and low yields, the vintage will be remembered for being atypical, but also resulting in qualitative, fresh, lush, and tasty wines. Let's see how this 2021 Southern Rhône red from Rasteau is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

RHONÉA TRADITION RASTEAU 2021 - AP, Rhône, France (#998716) (XD) - $19.95
This blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre, and 5% Carignan has a medium+ to medium-high intensity nose that is musky and woodsy, giving way to a core of ripe raspberry, black cherry, black pepper spice, stony minerals, and black olive aromas, with touches of savoury earth. On dry, medium+ to medium-full bodied, and slightly warming palate it has savoury stony minerals, black raspberry, black cherry, woodsy oak spice flavours. Acids are crisp, fresh, and juicy, while the supple, fine-grained tannins have with some textural grip. Savoury stony mineral and spice notes linger on the well-structured finish, with very good length. Recommended buy! Score: 88+ pts

Other lovely wines by Rhonéa can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec 2021 (Argentina) - Wine Review

With BBQ season upon us and Father's Day around the corner, tonight's red wine review is a delicious Malbec that is widely available as a VINTAGES Essentials product at LCBO outlets across Ontario.

It is produced by Terrazas de los Andes, a prominent Argentine winery renowned for its high-altitude vineyards. It was established in 1996 when a team of visionaries recognized the unique potential of Mendoza and the majestic Andes mountains, well before Argentina's oenological potential was recognized worldwide. With a firm conviction to create world-class wines, Terrazas ventured into the unexplored lands of the Andes to search for a refined, varietal expression of the vine that could only be achieved on the cool, high-altitude terraces of Mendoza - places where the sky and the earth meet in harmony.

Today, Terrazas de los Andes is located in the heart of Perdriel, at the foot of the Andes mountains, while the majority of their vineyards are situated in Mendoza's Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley, and surrounded by the high peaks of the Andes. They are also constantly searching for perfection and exploring the limits of high-altitude viticulture, while challenging established standards to create truly exceptional wines. Owned by Moët Hennessy Group, which itself is a division of the luxury goods conglomerate LVMH, Terrazas de los Andes is committed to sustainable viticulture practices which aim to reduce environmental impact and ensure the long-term health of the vineyards and surrounding ecosystems. Some of these initiatives include water optimization and promoting biodiversity. They are also reducing their carbon footprint by using lightweight bottles for all of their Reserva wines.

As Guardians of Mountain Life, Terrazas de los Andes is committed to unleashing and protecting the magic of the top of the world by preserving the Andes' sacred glacier water and living soils, mitigating their impact on the climate, engaging mountain communities, and empowering their people.

I first came across this wine with the 2018 Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec that I enjoyed just over two years ago. The 2021 vintage of this 100% Malbec is crafted using fruit from 100+ parcels (and 200+ terraces) of 8 high-altitude estate vineyards that are sustainably farmed and transitioning to organic, and in a magical place where the earth meets the sky. As great wine is grown, all the vineyards are situated between 1,000 to 1,650 metres (3,280 to 5,413 feet) above sea level, with seven of the vineyards located in the best appellations of the Uco Valley, while the eighth vineyard is in Luján de Cuyo.

To craft this wine, the grapes were harvested early and fresh, at the peak of fruit expression. The grapes were gently macerated for 15 to 20 days, with the aim of slowly and precisely extracting the right tannic structure of the wine while preserving its fineness. After fermentation, most of the wine was aged for 12 months in new to fourth-use oak barrels, with a proportion kept in tank to preserve fruit freshness and purity.

The 2021 growing season was characterized by lower than average temperatures during the ripening season, as well as above-average rainfall during the key months of January through March. It was a cool vintage and rather early, even for Terrazas as they are usually among the first to harvest. The grapes were allowed to develop intense colour and a bright, fruity profile with a vibrant and elegant mouthfeel. Each parcel was cultivated individually, including picking decisions which were made plot-by-plot. By generally picking earlier, Terrazas emphasizes elegance over power and avoids any over-ripening to preserve Malbec's bright floral and fruity aromas, and natural acidity. From a good vintage that delivered a cool growing season, let's see how this 2021 Malbec from Argentina is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

TERRAZAS DE LOS ANDES RESERVA MALBEC 2021 - Mendoza, Argentina (#29280) (XD) - $19.95
From a cooler vintage, the medium-high intensity nose is cool and fresh with green herbs and dried spices layered over dark fruit, blackberry, raspberry, white pepper, and black plum aromas with subtle touches of smoke and violet. On the medium-bodied palate it has smooth, refined, and lightly structured tannins to go along with fresh and lively acidity. It is dry with delicious dried spice, white pepper, green herbs, blackberry, and raspberry flavours, while peppery spice with touches of smoke and mineral notes linger on the long, well-structured finish. Enjoy this recommended buy over the next 3+ years. Score: 88+ pts

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