Les Hauts de Lagarde Blanc 2022 (Bordeaux) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a delicious, organic and vegan white wine blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon from Bordeaux that arrived at the LCBO over the weekend as part of the LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on March 2nd.

It is produced by Maison Raymond, a vigneron and negociant that is located in the southeastern end of Bordeaux's largest appellation, the Entre-Deux-Mers region, southeast of the city of Bordeaux. It was founded by the Raymond family in 1850 and, as such, they have a long history of winegrowing since the medieval times in the villages of Saint-Laurent-du-Bois, Saint-Martial, and Saint-Felix de Conclude.

Today, Maison Raymond is led by the 8th generation of the family. They reside on the family property of Domaine du Château de Lagarde, which had been built over the years by successive generations. The winery honours its heritage by using a special combination of ancestral tradition and the most efficient modern technologies to craft its wines. Organic farming at Maison Raymond was introduced after Lionel Raymond acquired an organic vineyard in 2000 and, because he had a strong respect for the environment and terroir, he was convinced that organic was the way to move forward and proceeded to convert all 130 hectares of vines at Maison Raymond to organic viticulture. Most winemakers in the area thought he was crazy as it was twice the work of a conventional vineyard. Today, Maison Raymond is one of Bordeaux's largest organic wineries and one of the few in the region that has made a commitment to organic viticulture. Maison Raymond is passionately relentless in its commitment to crating wines using natural, chemical-free methods, and without compromising on quality.

Like the 2019 Les Hauts de Lagarde Blanc that I enjoyed a few years ago, this vintage is also a blend of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Sémillon. The grapes were sourced from hillside sites in Saint Laurent du Bois. The climate at these sites is mild, with cooling breezes off the Atlantic Ocean, with lots of sunshine and regular rain. The vineyards are planted in soil composed of clay and limestone. The grapes were vinified completely in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats, without the use of any oak.

The 2022 growing season was surprisingly good, despite the perilous conditions. Winter started cool and dry, with dry conditions remaining in place even as temperatures started to rise in spring, and allowed for both an early and successful budburst and flowering. The aforementioned perilous conditions arrived with frosts in April and significant hailstorms in June. Yields were cut, but temperatures continued to rise, leading to drought conditions. July was the driest in decades, and from that month onward there was virtually no rain, and it featured prominent heatwaves. Serious wildfires sparked concerns of smoke taint, but most of the vineyards managed to escape unscathed. Cool nights helped bring some relief, which in turn helped preserve aromatic freshness and acidity in the fruit. Harvest was a little early, with much of the resulting fruit exceptionally fine. Let's see how this 2022 Bordeaux Blanc is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LES HAUTS DE LAGARDE BLANC 2022 - Vegan, AC Bordeaux, France (#387787) (XD) - $19.95
This organic white wine is a blend of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Sémillon. The medium to medium-high intensity nose offers an attractive bouquet of citrus, apple, grapefruit, orange, and honeysuckle aromas layered over guava, passion fruit, and tropical fruit notes. It has good concentration on the dry, medium+ to medium-full bodied with lovely citrus, grapefruit, white floral, herbal, and spice flavours. It's supported by fresh, lemony acidity, while citrusy, spice, and mineral notes linger on the juicy finish, with very good length. Enjoyable now, but will be even better with a further 6-12 months in the cellar. Highly recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

Other fine wines by Maison Raymond can be ordered through their Agent - Rare Earth Wines.

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Margan Family Hunter Valley Semillon 2017 (Australia) - Wine Review

After enjoying the excellent 2018 Margan Family Hunter Valley Semillon white wine a couple of years ago, tonight's wine review is an older vintage of the same wine and it arrived in LCBO outlets across the province last weekend as part of the March 18 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Margan Wines, a family-owned winery that was established by Lisa and her husband Andrew Margan in 1996. They are situated in the picturesque Broke Fordwich wine region of Hunter Valley. Prior to founding Margan Wines, Andrew learned the art of grape growing and winemaking at Tyrrell's for 20 years, while also working as a flying winemaker in France.

Today, Margan Wines is the leading producer within the Broke Fordwich sub-region of the Hunter Valley. Across two locations they have over 100 hectares of distinguished vineyards, some of which were planted in the late 1960s. Most of the vineyards are planted on the unique soils of the Fordwich Sill and provide the wines with a special sense of place. All of the wines are Estate grown and produced, as well as certified Sustainably Farmed.

As leaders in environmental stewardship, Margan Wines is fully accredited with Sustainable Winegrowing Australia and Freshcare, and were one of the first producers in the Hunter Valley to achieve this. Their certification benchmarks to the International Standards of ISO14000 of best practices, which means that they follow a detailed Environmental Management Plan to reduce their impact across all business operations in the four basic pillars of sustainability - reduction of greenhouse gases, energy efficiency, water management and the reduction of waste. Their acclaimed Margan Restaurant is regionally awarded for its focus on estate-grown produce which includes an orchard, olive groves, estate-reared lambs, bees, and free-range chickens.

Hunter Valley Semillon is one of the great wine styles of not only Australia, but around the world. This particular Semillon was picked from Margan's low-yielding, 40-year-old mature vines grown in the red volcanic clay soils of the Ancient Fordwich Sill. These soils are the weathered product of ancient volcanic eruptions and are rich in minerals, absorb moisture easily, and release it slowly.

The 2017 growing season in Hunter Valley was hot, dry, and trouble-free. It delivered a great vintage for wine, especially Semillon. Hunter Valley Semillon can be enjoyed when young and fresh, or cellared for many years, thereby introducing many complexities. Let's see how this 6 year old Semillon from Hunter Valley is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MARGAN FAMILY HUNTER VALLEY SEMILLON 2017 - Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia (#493338) (XD) - $19.95
Screw cap. Pours a medium yellow colour. Wow. Gorgeously fragrant, intensely aromatic, and complex nose of yellow pear, green fig, lanolin, and floral joined by subtle hints of citrus, melon, and waxy aromas. It is medium-full bodied on the impressively rich, well-structured, and dry palate with lovely citrus, floral, yellow pear, spice, grapefruit, lanolin, and waxy flavours supported by fresh, bracing, and well-balanced acidity. Some earthy mineral notes come through on the finish, with excellent length. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely wines by Margan Wines are available through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia.

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Argentina National Wine Day Nov. 24, 2021 - Virtual Tasting Event

I had the pleasure of attending a virtual wine tasting event a couple of weeks ago to celebrate Argentina's National Wine Day - an event held annually since November 24, 2010, the day when a presidential decree was signed recognizing wine as the country's national drink and honouring the wine industry's contribution to Argentina's national identity. This virtual event was presented by The Embassy of Argentina, The Consulate of Argentina in Toronto, and Wines of Argentina. Leading the tasting of the 4 wines (all are lovely and reviewed below) was Argentine wine writer and oenologist, Joaquin Hidalgo, and moderated by Christopher Waters, Dip, WSET, Director of Education at IWEG, as they explored the diversity, resiliency and culture of Argentina through its national drink: Vino Argentino.

The first Vitis Vinifera vines were introduced in Argentina by Spanish settlers in 1551 and they soon discovered that the soil and weather conditions favoured the growth of vines, especially in regions near the Andes Mountains. With the first Quinta Normal de Agricultura (School of Agriculture) inaugurated in 1853, the wine industry expanded nationwide. Fast forward to more recent times, modernization of the wine industry occurred during the 90s, leading to more wine being produced, as well as much more wine being exported to markets worldwide. Today, Argentina is the world's 5th largest wine producer, and 10th largest wine exporter with 895 wineries producing Vino Argentino. Locally, Argentina is the 9th most consumer of wine, with Buenos Aires 2nd in wine consumption per capita, behind only Paris.

Winegrowing activities are spread throughout the Argentina, from Salta in the north to Patagonia in the south, as well as in the Atlantic provinces. However, the workhorse of winegrowing in the country is the Cuyo region, representing 95% of the country's cultivated surface area. Moreover, Cuyo is the most prolific winegrowing region in South America and one of the most important worldwide.

Cuyo means "desert country" in the Huarpe Millcayac language of the native peoples that inhabited this area, prior to the arrival of the colonizers. This area is an arid and fertile region located in the central-west of the country, at the foot of the Andes mountain range. Making up Cuyo are the provinces of La Rioja, San Juan, and the famous Mendoza. Importantly, it is in Cuyo where the diverse character of Argentine viticulture is most evident. The region has a semi-arid climate with scarce vegetation, cold winters and hot summers which are enhanced by the influence of the Andes that also shows off its highest altitudes here and provides the main source of irrigation. The pure snowmelt water from the Andes feeds the main rivers of the region, which are then used by a system of reservoirs and channels for the irrigation of crops.

All of the lovely wines included as part of this tasting are from Mendoza. Malbec is by far the most widely grown varietal in the country, and these two wines are a chance to compare and contrast. Cabernet Sauvignon is becoming more widely planted, while Semillon from Argentina is a rare treat here in Ontario. The Cabernet Sauvignon arrives in LCBO VINTAGES on the weekend, while the other 3 wines are available right now in LCBO VINTAGES for your enjoyment as you explore some of the diverse wines of Argentina.

Tasting Notes:

NIETO SENETINER SEMILLON 2019 - Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#19399) (XD) - $15.95
100% Semillon from vineyards planted in 1947 at more than 1,200 metres (3,930 feet) altitude, with 30% of the wine aged in barrels for 10 months. The elegant, fragrant, and complex nose delivers lovely aromas of paraffin, white floral, smoke, and herbs surrounding a core of white fleshed orchard fruit. The medium-full bodied, concentrated, structured, and powdery-textured palate is dry with spicy flavours of orchard fruit, tangy citrus, white floral, and herbs backed by fresh, lively, and juicy acidity. The paraffin and smoky flavours return on the leesy mineral finish, with excellent length. New in Oct. 30 LCBO VINTAGES Release. Agent: Sylvestre Wines & Spirits. Score: 90 pts

LUIGI BOSCA MALBEC 2019 - Mendoza, Argentina (#452672) (XD) - $18.95 $16.95 until Jan. 2, 2022
This 100% Malbec was grown in Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley, from vines averaging 35 years of age, and between 900 to 1,100 metres (2,950 to 3,600 feet) altitude. It was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. The fragrant, medium-high to highly aromatic nose offers lovely aromas of ripe, dark fruited, blackberry, black cherry, and dark currant aromas surrounding a core of smoky, earthy, and savoury mineral. On the ripe, full-bodied, and fleshy palate, it has spicy dark berry flavours of blackberry, black cherry, and grilled herb with violet and boysenberry accents, followed by savoury, stony mineral notes. Acids are fresh, juicy, and well-balanced, while the smooth, refined tannins are dusty textured. Subtly spicy on the mid-palate, with smoky, stony mineral notes lingering on the finish, with very good length. VINTAGES Essentials. Agent: FWM Canada. Score: 89 pts

LUPA MALBEC 2018 - Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#629964) (XD) - $38
100% Malbec from 60 year old vines grown on calcareous soils of alluvial origin at 1,180 metres (3,609 feet) above sea level. It was fermented in concrete tanks with native yeasts, then aged for 21 months in mostly used French oak barrels. Recyclable, plant-based cork. Fine, attractive, and highly aromatic nose has spicy and minerally aromas surrounding a core of ripe dark berry, blackberry, and purple fruit, accented with dried herbs and subtle wood spice. It’s medium-full bodied and slightly warming with spicy, ripe blackberry, violet, mineral, and wood flavours supported by juicy, mouth-watering acidity. The structured and refined tannins are lightly chalky textured and drying. Very satisfying, minerally aftertaste with excellent length on the finish. Enjoy over the next 5-6 years. VINTAGES Classics September 2021. Agent: DB Wine & Spirits. Score: 91+ pts

BODEGA PIEDRA NEGRA GRAN LURTON SINGLE VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018 - Los Chacayes, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#980334) (XD) - $24.95
The fresh, fragrant nose offers lovely dark red fruited, cassis, currant, earthy, and mineral aromas accented with leafy herbs and whiffs of cocoa powder. On the full-ish bodied palate it is ripe and complex with tangy red and black fruits, currant, blackberry, raspberry, black plum, oak spice, and graphite flavours, all supported by fresh, juicy acidity. The structured and youthful tannins are quite firm and drying at this stage. Lovely graphite and dark berry notes linger on the long-lasting finish. Approachable now, but will reward cellaring for 2-3 years. Dec. 11 LCBO VINTAGES Release. Agent: Trajectory Beverage Partners. Score: 90 pts

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Michel Lynch Réserve Graves 2019 (Bordeaux) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a delicious white wine from Bordeaux that newly arrived at the LCBO last weekend. It's featured as part of the theme on wine pairings with Fall Comfort Foods in the October 16th LCBO VINTAGES Release.

Owners of the historic Château Lynch-Bages since 1939, the Cazes family has a long tradition in viticulture and hospitality. A common surname throughout the South of France, Cazes originates from the word "casa", meaning "house". The Cazes family were labourers from the Ariège region of southwest France, and left the mountains for their new home in Médoc in 1875. Starting as a baker in Pauillac, Jean-Charles Cazes took charge of Lynch-Bages in 1939 and rapidly crafted wines of great recognition. In the 1960s, Jean-Charles' youngest of 4 sons, André Cazes, took over the reins of the property, and regenerated and expanded the vineyard to almost 100 hectares by the end of the 1990s. In 1973, the next generation joined the family business when André's son, Jean-Michel, returned to Pauillac with his wife, and followed thereafter by their three daughters. In the late 1980's, Jean-Michel Cazes named his new range of wines in honour of Michel Lynch.

Michel Lynch was a man inextricably linked with the great wines of Bordeaux and the range pays homage to the knight who owned Château Lynch-Bages and was also Mayor of Pauillac during the French Revolution. Michel was born in 1754 and devoted his life to improving the wines on his Lynch-Bages property. He was a shrewd wine producer who is noted for his viticultural advances, in particular for his early trials of de-stemming - separating stalks and pips - prior to fermentation, a process that became widespread in Médoc.

The Michel Lynch range of wines are the result of rigorous selection and the art of blending. The wines are crafted in a modern and efficient wine-blending cellar in Macau, Médoc, and matured with patience until they posses a combination of lovely concentration, charm, and roundness. Let's see how this white wine from Bordeaux is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MICHEL LYNCH RÉSERVE GRAVES 2019 - AC, Bordeaux, France (#20901) (XD) - $22.95
This blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon was partially aged in oak barrels. The medium to medium-high intensity nose is minerally with lemon citrus, ripe apple, and hints of white floral aromas. On the medium-bodied, concentrated and dry palate, it is slightly viscous, creamy, and spicy with lemon citrus, apple, herbs, and subtle woody tones, all surrounded by leesy minerals. It has crisp and juicy acidity, while citrus, apple, and leesy mineral notes linger through to the long, crisp, and balanced finish. Recommended buy. Score: 89 pts

Other lovely wines from the JM Cazes portfolio are available through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Château Thieuley Entre-Deux-Mers 2019 (Bordeaux) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a lovely Bordeaux Blanc from the Entre-Deux-Mers appellation. This white wine is new to the LCBO, arriving on shelves across Ontario over the weekend as part of the September 18th LCBO VINTAGES Release.

Entre-Deux-Mers is situated southeast of the city of Bordeaux. The name of the region translates to "between two tides", and is a reference to its location between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. At 3,000 hectares, Entre-Deux-Mers is the largest sub-region of Bordeaux, however, only about half area is planted with grapes.

This white wine is produced by a family-owned and -operated winery whose story begins in 1950, when André Courselle bought Château Thieuley to lay the foundation of a great vineyard. In 1972, his son Francis Courselle took over the property and over the next 30 years, expanded their holdings and increased the number of vines planted from 4 to 80 hectares over their three properties - Château Thieuley, Clos Sainte Anne and Château Saint Genes.

Francis' two daughters, Marie and Sylvie Courselle, inherited the estate and family passion, and today they control the destiny of Thieuley. Marie is in charge of the technical aspect of winemaking, while Sylvie runs the commercial side of the business. Together, Marie and Sylvie are dedicated to continuing the tradition of quality at Château Thieuley while also continuing to innovate and respect the environment.

This Bordeaux Blanc is a blend of 50% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon, and 10% Sauvignon Gris that was sustainably grown (Terra Vitis certified) on clay and calcareous soils. It was macerated with skin contact, gently pressed, and vinified in stainless steel tanks with at least 3 months of ageing on lees.

Château Thieuley is known mostly for the quality of their white wines and believe that carefully blended wines are always more complex than single varietal wines. Made with love, let's see how this white wine blend from Bordeaux is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CHÂTEAU THIEULEY ENTRE-DEUX-MERS 2019 - AC, Bordeaux, France (#21403) (XD) - $18.95
A blend of 50% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon, and 10% Sauvignon Gris, the fragrant, highly aromatic nose offers lovely aromas of kiwi, guava, tropical fruit, and lemon citrus flecked with earthy minerals. It's medium-full bodied and creamy with very good fruit concentration and lemon citrus, tropical fruit, and guava flavours. Acids are fresh and balanced, while the long, crisp finish has some oyster shell and leesy mineral notes adding further complexity and intrigue. Highly recommended buy. Score: 90 pts

Other delicious wines from Château Thieuley are available through their Agent - DBINO David Beauroy Selections.

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Catena Appellation Series White Clay 2019 (Argentina) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a lovely white wine composed of Semillón and Chenin Blanc - two grape varietals uncommonly blended together, from a country not really known for growing these varietals. It is a new arrival from Argentina, landing on LCBO shelves across Ontario last weekend as part of the August 21st LCBO VINTAGES Release.

Bodega Catena Zapata was founded by Nicola Catena when he planted his first vines in Mendoza in 1902. Today, the Catena family is recognized for its pioneering role in high-altitude viticulture in Argentina led by the 4th generation of the Catena family - Dr. Laura Catena, and Winemaker Alejandro Vigil. This particular wine is from their Appellation "Village" range of wines that expresses the diversity of terroir and the historic farming customs of the local families. I've tasted a number of Catena Appellation wines, including most recently the 2019 Catena Appellation Tupungato Chardonnay, and they have all been lovely.

Semillón was first established in Argentina in the late 19th century and was among the most widely planted varietals. Since Semillón has been in sharp decline since the 1960s, today it is the 10th most widely planted white wine varietal. With just over 600 hectares of Semillón planted, it represents only 1.8% of the total surface area of all white wine varietals. 85% of Semillón plantings can be found in Mendoza, while the 5.6% is planted in Río Negro (Patagonia). In Mendoza, most of the plantings are in Tupungato, followed closely by Luján de Cuyo, where this Semillón is from. In Cuyo, Semillón acquires aromatic tones of white fruits and honey and evolves well in the bottle to form additional complexities.

Chenin Blanc is the 6th most widely planted white wine varietal in Argentina with approximately 1,700 hectares planted. Just like Semillón, unfortunately, plantings of Chenin also declined, with current levels half of what used to exist in 2002. Today, Chenin Blanc represents less than 5% of white wine varietal plantings in the country. However, Chenin Blanc has adapted well to Argentine terroirs, bringing freshness and structure to white blends with aromas of white peach.

Even though plantings of both Semillón and Chenin Blanc have declined, there is a renewed interest among winemakers in Argentina to rediscover these classic varieties. This white wine blend by Catena is a perfect example. It is a fairly new addition to the Catena portfolio as the 2019 appears to be only 2nd vintage of this wine, and it consists of 60% Semillón and 40% Chenin Blanc. The grapes were grown in Luján de Cuyo at an altitude of 950 metres (3,117 feet) on soils of alluvial origin with clay topsoil and rounded rocks on the bottom. Soil distribution is 30% clay, 40% silt, and 30% sand.

Tasting Note:

CATENA APPELLATION SERIES WHITE CLAY 2019 - Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina (#19392) (XD) - $19.95
This lovely blend of 60% Semillón and 40% Chenin Blanc spent 6 months in contact with lees has a medium to medium-high intensity nose that offers a pleasing mix of grapefruit, white floral, lemon peel, and leesy mineral aromas. The medium+ bodied palate is dry, fleshy and concentrated with lovely floral, lemon peel, grapefruit replays, plus some herbs and thyme flavours adding complexity and interest. It has balanced acidity, with flavours of apple and pear appearing on the mid-palate and continuing through to the long finish, where it is joined by leesy mineral notes. Recommended buy. Score: 89 pts

You can find other lovely wines by Catena at the LCBO, as well as through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Margan Family Hunter Valley Semillon 2018 (Australia) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a lovely Semillon from the Hunter Valley in Australia that arrives at the LCBO this weekend as part of the February 6, 2021 LCBO VINTAGES Release.

Margan Wines was established in 1996 by Lisa and Andrew Margan in the picturesque Broke Fordwich wine region of Hunter Valley. Prior to establishing Margan Wines, Andrew learned the art of grape growing and winemaking at Tyrrell's for 20 years, along with working as a flying winemaker in France. Together with his wife, Lisa, the Margans have evolved to become the leading winery in the Broke Fordwich sub-region of the Hunter Valley.

Today, they have over 100 hectares of quality vineyards, some of which were planted in the late 1960s. All of the wines are single vineyard, Estate Grown wines that are hand-crafted at the Estate by Andrew. The uniquely-styled wines of Margan are strongly defined by the climate of the Hunter Valley and the ancient red volcanic soils of the Fordwich Sill which run through the area. These soils are free-draining, but the soils cell structure absorbs moisture quickly and releases it slowly, a beneficial feature for inland, high-latitude (32.5 degrees South) regions such as Broke Fordwich. These free-draining, alluvial soils and sandy loams also produce particularly fine Semillon - the variety for which the Hunter Valley is best known.

Environmentally sustainable practices are a core value at Margan Wines. They are fully accredited with sustainable winegrowing Australia and committed to looking after the land and be sustainable for generations to come. They have many sustainability initiatives at the winery and restaurant - too numerous to mention here - and are also looking to become carbon neutral.

I have enjoyed Hunter Valley Semillon for many years now. They can be enjoyed young, but are best with some age on them. Let's see how this Semillon is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MARGAN FAMILY HUNTER VALLEY SEMILLON 2018 - Estate grown, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia (#493338) (XD) - $18.95
Screw cap. From 40 year old, low-yielding and mature vines grown on the red volcanic soils of the ancient Fordwich Sill, the medium-high intensity nose is elegant with distinctive lanolin, earthy mineral, grapefruit citrus, lemon, and floral aromas. It's light-to-medium bodied on the dry, racy palate with bright acidity and flavours of lanolin, citrus, floral, and touches of herb. Very good length with citrus, herb, earthy mineral notes lingering on the juicy finish. Enjoyable now, but I would cellar this for 5 years to allow for additional complexities to develop. Score: 90 pts

Other lovely wines from the Margan Family can be ordered through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia.

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Les Hauts de Lagarde Blanc 2019 (Bordeaux) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a lovely organic and vegan-friendly white wine from Bordeaux that came to the LCBO over the weekend as part of the January 23rd LCBO VINTAGES Release.

It is produced by Maison Raymond, a vigneron and negociant family that has a history of winegrowing that dates back to the year 1850. Maison Raymond is located in the southeastern end of Entre-Deux-Mers, Bordeaux's largest appellation, within the commune of Saint-Laurent-du-Bois. Entre-Deux-Mers stretches from near the city of Bordeaux and moves southeasterly, between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. In addition to growing wines in Saint-Laurent-du-Bois, they also have vineyards in the villages of Saint-Martial and Saint-Felix de Conclude, where wines have been grown since medieval times.

The family property of the domaine du Château de Lagarde has been built up over years by successive generations and uses a combination of ancestral traditions and efficient, modern technologies to craft its wines. In 2000, Lionel Raymond purchased the organic vineyard of Château Joumes Fillon and because he had strong respect for the environment and terroir, he also converted his own vineyard - all 130 hectares - to organic agriculture. Most winemakers in the area thought he was crazy as it was twice the work of a conventional vineyard. Today, Maison Raymond is one of Bordeaux's largest organic wineries and one of the few in the region that has made the commitment to organic viticulture.

This particular organic white wine is a blend of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Sémillon that was grown on a hillside vineyard with clay-limestone soil and gravels in Saint-Laurent-du-Bois, where the climate is mild due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean. I enjoyed tasting the 2018 vintage of this wine when it arrived in LCBO VINTAGES in April 2019 and expect this latest vintage to be just as lovely.

Tasting Note:

LES HAUTS DE LAGARDE BLANC 2019 - Vegan, AC Bordeaux, France (#387787) (XD) - $18.95
This organic wine is a blend of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Sémillon that was grown on clay-limestone soil and gravels. The highly aromatic nose is fragrant and pretty with notes of ripe lemon/lime, citrus, passion fruit, kiwi, and white flowers. It's medium+ bodied on the ripe palate with lovely aroma replays plus touches of honey that are balanced by crisp, balanced acidity. Slightly chalky mineral textured on the mid-palate, while the long finish is juicy with oyster shell mineral and lime notes. Recommended buy. Score: 89 pts

Other lovely wines from Maison Raymond can be found via their Agent - Rare Earth Wines.

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Wines of Argentina - Aug. 8, 2020 LCBO VINTAGES Wine Reviews

Over the Civic Holiday long weekend, I had a great opportunity - thanks to Wines of Argentina! - to taste through and explore many lovely Argentine wines that will be arriving at the LCBO as part of the August 8 LCBO VINTAGES Release that features wines from Argentina.

In fact, there are more than 30 Argentine wines coming through LCBO VINTAGES this summer and fall - and I will be writing about nearly all of these over the coming weeks - but we'll begin our look at wines from Argentina with these 7 wines.

With 895 wineries, Argentina is the 5th largest wine producer globally and is 7th most in cultivated surface. Of course, Malbec is Argentina's flagship grape that we all know and love and is usually the first grape that comes to mind when we think of Argentine wine. However, only 22% (44,000 hectares) of Argentine vineyards are devoted to Malbec. Bonarda is currently Argentina's 2nd most planted grape with 18,000 hectares planted to this varietal. However, this was always not the case as Bonarda was the most planted grape in Argentina until the end of the last century. The 3rd most widely planted grape is Cabernet Sauvignon - and not far behind Bonarda in acreage - has been extensively researched in recent years. Not surprisingly, Cabernet Sauvignon expresses different profiles depending on where its grown, and in Argentina the trend has been to grown this varietal in colder, higher altitude zones. These three red grapes combine to make up the majority of Argentina's wine production, making Argentina very much a red wine producing nation.

However, with 36,000 hectares of vines planted to white grape varietals, Argentina does produce some white wines. Argentina has many old vineyards in perfect condition, but winemakers are also innovating by reconditioning and reviving old vineyards, as well as experimenting with earlier harvests that result in wines with higher acidity and lower alcohol. Winemakers are also exploring new regions for white wines such as at very high altitude sites, in poor, high drainage, calcareous soils, and different micro-climates within the desert regions of the Andes mountains and in Oceanic, coastal vineyards. Another area of experimentation is fermentation vessels such as using amphoras, spheres, and pressurized barrel fermenters. Torrontés Riojano - found only in Argentina - is the most widely planted white varietal at nearly 8,000 hectares, making it the country's signature white wine. The other white varietal of prominence is Chardonnay with almost 6,000 hectares planted. Sauvignon Blanc has seen explosive growth over the last 14 years to become the 3rd most planted white varietal. The final grape of note is Semillón - with 650 hectares planted - and it develops well in cool, moderate climates such as those found in the Uco Valley (Mendoza) and Rio Negro Upper Valley (Patagonia). The white wine below is a delightful blend of three of these varietals.

One of the most interesting aspects of winegrowing in Argentina is the landscape. Grapes are grown from 22° to 45° southern latitude along a strip that follows the Andes mountain range, and heights reaching up to an astounding 3,300 metres above sea level - which are among the highest in the world.

The Cuyo, in central western Argentina, contains 95% of the country's total acreage planted to vines. Located in the Cuyo are the wine regions of La Rioja, San Juan, and the heart of Argentine wine production - Mendoza. The highest peaks of the Andes are found in Mendoza, thus acting as a barrier to the humid winds from the Pacific Ocean. The altitude, continental climate, heterogeneity of soils, and snowmelt are key contributors to the production of excellent wines in the region. Mendoza is divided into 5 sub-regions - Valle de Uco (Tunuyán, Tupungato, and San Carlos), Primera Zone (Luján de Cuyo and Maipú), Northern Oasis (Lavalle and Las Heras), the East (San Martín, Rivadavia, Junín, Santa Rosa and La Paz), and the South (San Rafael, Malargüe and General Alvear). Moreover, new research has led to the identification of micro-regions within these terroirs, with new Geographical Indications (GIs) being certified as contributing distinctive characteristics to their wines.

Located north of Cuyo are the wine regions of Jujuy, Salta, Tucumán, and Catamarca, collectively known as The North. It is here that some of the world's highest-altitude vineyards are located. Viticultural tradition in the region can be traced back to the 18th century and primarily located in the Calchaquí Valleys - a system of mountains that formed 5 million years ago and stretch 270 km. The town of Cafayate, in Salta, is home to 60% all of vineyards in The North. The wines from this region are strongly influenced by the terroir and high altitude, with its arid and dry climate, very high average temperatures and diurnal temperature variation, long growing season, and sandy-loam soils. The Cabernet Sauvignon reviewed below is a great example from Cafayate.

The Patagonia and Atlantic Region is south of Cuyo and forms a large area that is flanked by low mountains to the west and extends to the ocean in the east. Five regions encompass the area - Neuquén is located to the southwest of La Pampa, while Río Negro is to the south and borders both regions. Newer projects have regions further to the south in Chubut, and towards the ocean to the east in Chapadmalal (Buenos Aires). It is interesting to note that the city of Buenos Aires has a wine consumption rate per capita that is 2nd only to Paris.

Wine reviews are provided below and all of these lovely wines will be in stores by August 8th. You will also be able to order them online at LCBO.com where Wines of Argentina is sponsoring an amazing contest to Win the Ultimate Backyard Makeover - a $10,000 grand prize that includes a Home Depot Gift Card and four premium cuts of 100% Argentine beef valued at $600. To enter this contest, simply spend at least $100 on LCBO.com - easily achieved by adding a few of these lovely Argentine wines to your shopping cart. This contest closes August 15th at 1:00 p.m. EST.

Tasting Notes:

SUSANA BALBO SIGNATURE WHITE BLEND 2018 - Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#558734) (XD) - $21.95
This blend of 35% Semillón, 35% Sauvignon Blanc, and 30% Torrontés was grown at 1,050 metres above sea level. It has a medium-high intensity, ripe nose of asparagus and grassy tones with some yellow floral, passion fruit, and lime citrus with touches of mineral adding complexity. It's medium+ bodied on the palate with very good concentration and zesty, limey acidity. Pleasing citrus, herbal, asparagus flavours with a fine, underlying minerality. It has a nice, chalky texture on the mid-palate while the finish is long and zesty. Agent: Profile Wine Group. Score: 90+ pts

LA MASCOTA ROSÉ 2019 - Mendoza, Argentina (#15182) (XD) - $16.95
Screw cap. This 100% Malbec Rosé has a medium+ intensity nose offering bright red berry, cherry, and strawberry aromas with touches of citrus, all of which come through nicely on the ripe red berry and citrus palate with some spice and floral notes adding interest to the flavour profile. It's somewhat fleshy on the mid-palate with bracing acidity. Nicely dry overall with subtle stony mineral and saline characters on the long, fresh finish. Very impressive. Agent: Univins and Spirits. Score: 89 pts

LUIGI BOSCA TERROIR LOS MIRADORES MALBEC 2017 - Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#568899) (XD) - $34.95
This single vineyard Malbec from vines averaging only 10 years old was grown at 1,150 metres above sea level. It has a clean, fresh, elegant, fragrant, and ripe nose of spice, stony mineral, violet, blackberry, and touches of herb. The spicy, medium bodied palate is ripe with very nice replays and sweet, elegant tannins and flavours of dark berry, blackberry, and violet accented with spice and stony minerals. It's juicy on the mid-palate with fresh acidity. Long, stony, spicy finish with subtle oak nuances. Lovely! Agent: FWM Canada. Score: 91 pts

LA MASCOTA MALBEC 2018 - Mendoza, Argentina (#555805) (XD) - $16.95
This Malbec was grown in deep, stony soils and aged for 12 months in new French and American oak barrels. The medium intensity nose has dark berry, black cherry, and white pepper spice aromas mingling with stony mineral and touches of plum, floral, and oak. It is medium-full bodied on the palate with dark berry, black cherry, white pepper spice, and oak influenced flavours. The smooth, rounded tannins have a slightly chalky texture, while acids are well-balanced. Very good length on the spicy, dark berry, and cocoa scented finish. A nice wine that I'd like to see with a little less oak. Agent: Univins and Spirits. Score: 88+ pts

LA CELIA RESERVA MALBEC/CABERNET FRANC 2017 - Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#618280) (XD) - $14.95
This co-fermented blend of 80% Malbec and 20% Cabernet Franc has a medium intensity nose that leads with woody, herbal, and green pepper tones backed by some red and dark currant aromas and subtle spiciness. It is medium+ bodied with herbal, woody, currant, and peppery spice flavours with well-integrated, subtly grippy, crunchy tannins. Acids are fresh, while the finish length is very good. Agent: Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits. Score: 87 pts

EL ESTECO 1947 OLD VINES CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018 - Cafayate Valley, Salta, Argentina (#15082) (XD) - $24.95
From pergola-trained vines whose origins can be traced back to 1947, and raised entirely in cement egg with natural yeasts. Fresh, aromatic nose has herbaceous, paprika, olive, and minty notes with some cassis, red and black fruits and some minerals. It is full bodied on the complex palate with peppery, spice, paprika, olive, cassis, currant, herbal, and plum flavours with some earthiness supported by fresh acidity. Smooth, refined tannins have some grip on the back palate, while the long finish is earthy and stony with olive notes. Agent: Dandurand. Score: 90+ pts

LA POSTA ESTELA ARMANDO BONARDA 2018 - Mendoza, Argentina (#261586) (XD) - $15.95
From 50+ year old vines located in the Guaymallén region. Ripe and fruity nose with raspberry, blueberry, and spice. It's medium+ bodied on the fruity palate with raspberry, red berry and spice flavours balanced with fresh acidity and smooth, rounded tannins. The fruit and spice notes are joined by some chocolate notes on the finish, with very good length. Agent: Noble Estates Wine & Spirits. Score: 88 pts

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McWilliam's Mount Pleasant Elizabeth Semillon 2006 (Australia) - Wine Review

Something really special, tonight's wine review is an aged Hunter Valley Semillon that was purchased from an LCBO VINTAGES Release 4 years ago.

Hunter Valley (in Australia, just north of Sydney) is known for producing outstanding Semillon that can be enjoyed young or admired when allowed to age gracefully. Let's see how this is tasting tonight!

Tasting Note:

MCWILLIAM'S MOUNT PLEASANT ELIZABETH SEMILLON 2006 - Cellar aged, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia (#724492) (XD) - $19.95
Screw cap. Medium yellow-gold colour. Medium-high intensity aromatics are mature and very complex, offering lovely petrol, yellow flower, paraffin, fig, candle and beeswax. It's medium-full bodied with aromas coming up in spades on the mature palate, supported by bracing, juicy acidity. Some lemon/lime flavours appear mid-palate and continue through to the long finish that is flecked with beeswax, butter, and green herb, and finishes with stony minerality. Can be enjoyed over the next 1-2 years. Brilliant! Score: 91 pts

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Charme d’Aliénor Crémant de Bordeaux (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine to celebrate Father's Day is a sparkling wine is new to Ontario and will be available on LCBO shelves as part of the VINTAGES Release on June 24th.

This wine is produced by the co-operative Union de Guyenne, also known as UG Bordeaux. In 2007, UG Bordeaux joined the Caves of Sauveterre de Guyenne, Saint-Pey-Génissac and Blasimon. Today, 250 operators combine their savoir-fare to produce wines such as this Crémant de Bordeaux sparkling wine. From vineyard to bottle, quality, traceability, and commitment to environmental protection are priorities.

Tasting Note:

CHARME D’ALIÉNOR CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX - Traditional method, AC, France (#483008) (D) - $16.95
Hand-harvested and unique blend of 90% Semillon and 10% Cabernet Franc. This has a bready, autolytic nose of medium intensity with hints of pastry and white flowers. There's a vague impression of sweetness, but essentially dry on the medium-bodied palate, with crisp, balanced acids. Frothy mousse is gentle and dissipates quickly. Lemon and apple flavours on the palate, with earthy mineral notes lingering on the finish, with good length. Clean and easy drinking for current enjoyment. Score: 87 pts

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Top Wines from Savour Australia Wine Tasting - May 2016

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

Tasting Notes:

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

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

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

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

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

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Loan Wines Unwooded Special Reserve Semillon 2004 (Barossa) - Wine Review

Purchased this organic white wine earlier this year from the April 27 release. At 9 years old, you would think this is well passed its prime, but it definitely is not! Hopefully you picked this up when I recommended it back in April, because it's no longer available.

LOAN WINES UNWOODED SPECIAL RESERVE SEMILLON 2004 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (#301127) (D) - $15.95

Tasting Note:
Screw cap. Complex aromas of orange, tropical fruits, tea leaf, and beeswax. Medium-full bodied with an oily and very creamy texture. Palate is ever-so-slightly off-dry (slightly sweet) and has tropical fruits, tea and beeswax flavours. Smooth, lengthy finish that is slightly tart, bitter and extra dry. For a 2004, this is drinking very well, but drink this yummy white now. It's different. I enjoyed it!

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