Southbrook Organic Triomphe Chardonnay 2016 (Niagara) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a nice, organic Chardonnay from Southbrook Vineyards, one of the leading producer of organic and biodynamic wines in Niagara. This white wine is also suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is available for purchase through the winery and in LCBO VINTAGES.

Founded in 1991, Southbrook Vineyards is the epitome and evolution of co-owners Marilyn and Bill Redelmeier's love story with wine, the land, and all things local. Southbrook also has taken a leadership role in sustainability, including third-party endorsements such as LEED Gold for architecture and Intervin Winery of the Year, as well as obtaining biodynamic and organic certifications, which affirms the Redelmeier's goal to inspire others to commit to sustainability, pursue their passions, and create fine wines.

Having tasted each of the past 4 vintages of this lovely Chardonnay, this has proven to been a fairly consistent, high-quality white wine, which continues with the 2016 vintage. It should come as no surprise as Chardonnay is truly one of the great grape varietals produced in Niagara, especially when placed in the hands of internationally-acclaimed winemaker at Southbrook, Ann Sperling.

Tasting Note:

SOUTHBROOK ORGANIC TRIOMPHE CHARDONNAY 2016 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#172338) (XD) - $24.95
Stelvin screw cap. Subtle nose of apple, pear and cereal, with hints of vanilla and oak. The medium-full bodied palate offers much more, with very interesting mealy flavours combined with nuts, honey, lemon, and vanilla layered on top of ripe white and yellow fruit. Oak is firmly in the background. Nicely textured with bright acids lifting the palate. Mealy, nutty, and citrus notes linger on the long finish. Not your typical Chardonnay, but indeed a fine expression. Serve with just a light chill. Score: 89 pts

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Cantina di Negrar Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2015 (Veneto) - Wine Review

I recently enjoyed the 2016 Cantina di Negrar Corvina, and tonight is another lovely wine from the same producer.

Cantina Valpolicella Negrar is the producer considered to be the birthplace of Amarone and the typical Valpolicella Classica wines. In 1936, just 3 years after the winery was founded, the Cantina's President, Gaetano Dall'Ora, pronounced "This is not an Amaro, it’s an Amarone!" (amaro means bitter in English) after tasting a Recioto wine that had accidentally been left to ferment for a long time, thus giving rise to the name of the actual symbolic wine of Valpolicella.

Amarone is traditionally made from partially dried grapes, the majority consisting of Corvina with some Rondinella, and sometimes other indigenous varietals. This process is called appassimento and concentrates the remaining sugars and flavours. After the grapes have been dried, the grapes go through a long fermentation which results in a drier wine - a short fermentation results in sweeter Recioto wine. The final step is often many months of barrel ageing.

The Cantina di Negrar brand is the soul of Cantina Valpolicella Negrar, and the St. Mark's winged lion on the label is a tribute both to the winery's philosophy of cooperative production and to the history of the local area. The lion, a symbol of Venice's once great power in the 16th century, sits atop a column in the centre of the commune of Negrar.

This delicious red wine is a General List product at the LCBO and widely available at LCBO outlets across Ontario, as well as online at lcbo.com.

Tasting Note:

CANTINA DI NEGRAR AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 2015 - DOCG, Veneto, Italy (#044784) (D) - $34.95
The medium+ intensity nose offers enticing aromas of sour cherry, tobacco, chocolate, oak spice, and fig. It is full-bodied with lovely fig, chocolate, oak spice, and dark berry flavours supported by fresh, vibrant acidity. Sweet tannins are nicely textured with just a touch of grip. Pretty chocolate notes on the mid-palate continue through to the lovely, long finish. Will be better at end of 2019. Very good value in Amarone! Score: 89 pts

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Bottega Accademia Red Prosecco (Italy) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a nice sparkling wine that just arrived at the LCBO in time for the holiday season. This Prosecco is packaged in an attractive transparent red bottle that would be ideal for gift-giving or to open at your next holiday gathering.

It is produced by Bottega, a family-owned company located in Bibano, Treviso (45 km North of Venice) that has been producing premium quality, typical Italian wines, grappa, spirits and food products since 1977. However, the history of Bottega goes back much further, as forefather Andrea was cultivating vines as a tenant farmer in 1635 in the beautiful hills near Molinetto della Croda in Refrontolo.

Domenico Bottega was a wine trader and passionate oenologist in the 1920's who could easily identify the best grapes in the vineyard. Domenico's son, Aldo, expanded on his father's passion for grappa in the 1950's and 60's, creating the first monovarietal grappa, and eventually founding Bottega in 1977.

Today, Bottega is a third generation business led by siblings Barbara, Sandro, and Stefano Bottega, the children of Aldo. The headquarters are located in a 19th-century farmhouse, renovated to preserve the original architectural and environmental characteristics, and are surrounded by 10 hectares of vineyards. With the goal of delivering health, well-being and pleasure through its products, Bottega advocates Quality (Italian taste and authenticity), Design (expression of the excellent aesthetic character of being made in Italy) and Social Responsibility towards the environment and the community.

Tasting Note:

BOTTEGA ACCADEMIA RED PROSECCO - DOC, Veneto, Italy (#578955) (D) - $19.95
Produced using the Martinotti method (i.e. Charmat) using Glera grapes. Subtle on the nose with green apple, citrus, white peach, and acacia flowers, and melon. It's medium-bodied with frothy, creamy mousse and lively acids. A shade off-dry on the flavour profile with grapefruit, blood orange, lemon citrus, and hint of floral notes. Slightly yeasty and leesy on the mid-palate, and some bitterness on the finish, with good length. Score: 87 pts

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Wine Picks LCBO VINTAGES Release Nov. 10, 2018: California + Rioja

The parade of premium wines continues with the November 10, 2018 LCBO VINTAGES Release that features coveted and iconic California wines as its main theme, while the mini-theme features classic gems from Rioja. All of these wines will be on LCBO VINTAGES shelves across Ontario this Saturday.

We'll begin with main theme that features fifteen of some of California's most coveted and iconic wines, four of which are included among my top wine picks. From the whites, both are high-end Chardonnay. One is from Beringer, California's oldest continually operating winery (founded in 1876), while the other from a specialist in Sonoma Chardonnay - Kistler Vineyards. Among the reds, there is a lovely Pinot Noir from Flowers Vineyards & Winery, as well as a Napa Cab from Joseph Phelps that is actually a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 7% Petit Verdot.

The mini-theme features only seven wines from Rioja (Spain), but four are include among my top wine recommendations. First up is the lone white that is made with the Viura (aka Macabeo) grape and can be aged for at least another 5 years. The red wines include some stellar mature wines from 1996, 2005, and 2009. The '96 is a blend of 90% Tempranillo, 5% Graciano, and 5% Mazuelo, while the '05 is a blend of 75% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacha, 5% Graciano, and 5% Mazuelo. Lastly, the '09 is 100% Tempranillo.

Wine blends among my top red wine picks include the Saint-Roch that is a blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 10% Carignan, while the Madiran is a blend of 80% Tannat and 20% Cabernet Franc from 40-50 year old vines. From Rhône, the '15 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, while the '16 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a made with 30% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 15% Syrah, 10% Counoise, and 5% Cinsault. From Tuscany, the Luce is a 50/50 blend of Sangiovese and Merlot, while the baby Ornellaia is a blend of 44% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Petit Verdot, and 12% Cabernet Franc.

Among my white wine picks, the Marsannay is made with Chardonnay, while the Muscadet is made with Melon de Bourgogne from old vines that average 80-years-old. If you like your wines with some sweetness, the Niagara Riesling is your best bet. Moving on to dessert wines, the Cave Spring Riesling is a Late Harvest and along with the Tokaj are the least sweetest of the bunch. Both the Vidal Icewine and the Botrytis Semillon are lusciously sweet dessert wines.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this Release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES 2016 - AP Côtes du Roussillon-Villages, France (#119354) (D) - $17.00
• LA TREMENDA MONASTRELL 2016 - DO Alicante, Spain (#490011) (XD) - $17.95
• SALENTEIN RESERVE PINOT NOIR 2016 - Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#578179) (XD) - $18.95
• GÉRARD BERTRAND GRAND TERROIR LES ASPRES SYRAH / MOURVÈDRE / GRENACHE 2015 - AP Côtes du Roussillon Les Aspres, France (#413245) (XD) - $18.95
• CHÂTEAU PEYROS VIEILLES VIGNES MADIRAN 2013 - AC, Southwest, France (#234997) (XD) - $19.95

• FEUDO MONTONI LAGNUSA NERO D’AVOLA 2015 - DOC Sicilia, Italy (#523738) (XD) - $23.95
• MONTECILLO GRAN RESERVA 2009 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#239277) (XD) - $29.95
• DOMAINE DE LA SOLITUDE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2015 - AC, Rhône, France (#560987) (XD) - $41.95
• VIÑA TONDONIA RESERVA 2005 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#356337) (XD) - $49.95
• URBINA GRAN RESERVA 1996 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#355743) (XD) - $54.95

• LE SERRE NUOVE DELL’ORNELLAIA 2016 - DOC Bolgheri Rosso, Tuscany, Italy (#606194) (XD) - $64.95
• FLOWERS PINOT NOIR 2016 - Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, USA (#215202) (XD) - $64.95  92 pts  wine review
• CHÂTEAU DE BEAUCASTEL CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2016 - AC, Rhône, France (#711317) (XD) - $93.95
• LUCE 2015 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#685263) (XD) - $114.95  91 pts  wine review
• JOSEPH PHELPS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#189795) (XD) - $118.95

White Wine:

• ILOK CELLARS CLASSIC GRASEVINA 2017 - Croatia (#517474) (XD) - $14.95
• VETIVER VIURA 2014 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#437707) (XD) - $16.95
• GADAIS VIEILLES VIGNES MUSCADET SÈVRE ET MAINE 2015 - Sur lie, AC, Loire, France (#444406) (XD) - $17.95
• KEN FORRESTER OLD VINE RESERVE CHENIN BLANC 2017 - WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#231282) (XD) - $17.95
• PADDY BORTHWICK PINOT GRIS 2016 - Wairarapa, North Island, New Zealand (#555516) (XD) - $19.95
• TAWSE LIMESTONE RIDGE-NORTH ESTATE BOTTLED RIESLING 2016 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#431593) (M) - $23.95
• LOUIS LATOUR MARSANNAY BLANC 2014 - AC, Burgundy, France (#435156) (XD) - $32.95
• BERINGER PRIVATE RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2016 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#026682) (D) - $64.95
• KISTLER SONOMA MOUNTAIN CHARDONNAY 2016 - Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma County, California, USA (#183921) (XD) - $107.95  93 pts  wine review

Rosé Wine:

• MIMI EN PROVENCE GRANDE RÉSERVE ROSÉ 2017 - AP Côtes de Provence, France (#452573) (XD) - $18.95

Fortified:

• QUINTA VALE D. MARIA VINTAGE PORT 2015 - DOP, Portugal (#582965) (S) (375 mL) - $49.95

Dessert Wine:

• BIRO SO SWEET TOKAJ 2016 - Tokaj-Hegyalja, Hungary (#617324) (S) (375 mL) - $17.95
• CAVE SPRING INDIAN SUMMER RIESLING 2016 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#415901) (S) (375 mL) - $24.95  90 pts  wine review
• DE BORTOLI NOBLE ONE BOTRYTIS SEMILLON 2016 - New South Wales, Australia (#917252) (S) (375 mL) - $29.95
• SOUTHBROOK ORGANIC VIDAL ICEWINE 2014 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#581165) (S) (375 mL) - $49.95

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Nativ Bicento 2013 (Campania) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a lovely new wine that arrived as part of the October 27 LCBO VINTAGES Release that featured some illustrious Italian wines in its main theme.

It is produced by Nativ and was founded in 2008 in the heart of Irpinia, in Paternopoli, Campania (the shin of Italy's boot), by Dr. Mario Ercolino, an internationally renowned oenologist, and Dr. Roberta Pirone, a specialist in food science, with the aim of producing excellent wines from grapes that are typical of the territory.

The name "Nativ" was chosen to represent the origin of the Viticulture of Irpina, through autochthonous production which outlines the concept of "origin of place", and is carried out through the production of wines from indigenous varietals, using vines that are known for their particular fertility in volcanic soils. The winery's precious vineyards span approximately 15 hectares between Paternopoli and Taurasi.

"Bicento" is the name of this important red wine, which translated literally means “twice 100”. It is named as such because the grapes for this wine come from 200-year-old ungrafted vines that are grown on volcanic soils on the Taurasi hills, 500 metres above sea level. These vines are among the oldest in all of Europe!

Tasting Note:

NATIV BICENTO 2013 - DOC Irpinia Campi Taurasini, Campania, Italy (#575035) (XD) - $41.95
100% Aglianico aged in French oak barrels for 12 months. Medium-high intensity aromatics are complex with spicy, blackberry, dark berry, leather, herbs, earth, and a touch of savoury funk. Some smoky mineral notes develop with air. It is full-bodied and concentrated with nicely balanced aroma replays, plus black pepper, fig, and floral nuances supported by fresh, bright acidity to keep things quite light on the palate. Firm, drying, mouth-puckering tannins have a dusty and chalky texture. The finish length is excellent with dark berry, black plum, licorice, and spice flavours. Lovely savoury-earthy character throughout. A pleasure now, but will be better in 5 years as tannins soften and integrate. An amazing wine to enjoy over the next 10-15 years. Buy 4 and enjoy one every 5 years. Score: 94 pts

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Giveaway - Win Tickets to Hamilton's Food & Drink Fest

I am giving away Two (2) General Admission tickets (valued at $30/pair) to Hamilton's Food & Drink Fest that is taking place from Friday, November 9 to Sunday, November 11 at the FirstOntario Centre in downtown Hamilton. These tickets are valid for any one day of your choosing.

Your chance to win tickets to #FoodandDrinkFest and contest entry form is at the bottom of this post.

At Hamilton's Food & Drink Fest, you can experience an exciting variety of Ontario VQA and international wines, spirits, craft beers, local gourmet food, specialty coffees, teas, decadent desserts and more, all while helping to support a great local initiative, Food 4 Kids!

Created and presented by Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Halton, Brant, Haldimand, Lake Erie North Shore, Pelee Island, Prince Edward County, Niagara Peninsula and Niagara-on-the-Lake's most popular restaurants, culinary experts, chefs, innovative food trucks, breweries and wineries.

Also enjoy entertaining live musical acts and fun informative cooking demonstrations all in one convenient and central location! You can also bring your kids on Sunday as the event opens up to all ages.

Personally, I have never attended this event, but I am very excited to attend this year!

Event Details:

When:

Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, 4-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, 12-10 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018, 12-5 p.m. - Family Day

Where:

FirstOntario Centre 101 York Boulevard Hamilton, ON

Must be 19 years of age or older on Friday/Saturday. Children and infants welcome on Sunday.

Contest:

Here's your chance to WIN a pair of tickets to Hamilton's Food & Drink Fest. Winner will receive two (2) tickets valued at $30 per pair. List of exhibitors.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Cantina di Negrar Corvina 2016 (Veneto) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is a General List product that is widely available at the LCBO and sells for under $10!

This red wine is produced by Cantina Valpolicella Negrar, a co-operative that was founded in 1933 and is located just a few kilometres from Verona, near Lake Garda, in northeastern Italy. The people of Cantina Valpolicella Negrar includes 230 families of winemakers who cultivate over 700 hectares of vineyards, and are led by a highly professional technical staff. Together, they are dedicated to the production of quality wines that are a true expression of the land from which they are born.

The winery is constantly doing research to gain insights and knowledge, with an eye towards keeping tradition as well as innovating. As such, all of the work in the vineyards is done by hand with respect for the environment and its biodiversity due to the need for sustainable viticulture. The in-depth study of the biology, ecology and environment where winemakers work allows them to adopt good practices in soil management, promote biodiversity in the vineyards, and pest control with minimal environmental impact on operators and consumers.

Tasting Note:

CANTINA DI NEGRAR CORVINA 2016 - IGT Verona, Veneto, Italy (#519199) (D) - $9.95
Screw cap. Made with 100% Corvina, the principle grape used in the production of Amarone and Valpolicella wines, and uncommon to find as a single varietal wine. Generous nose is plummy with spice surrounded by a dark berry-cherry, savoury, and earthy core, and hints of white pepper. The light-to-medium bodied palate is dry, ripe and fruit forward, with slightly raisined plum, cherry, and blackcurrant flavours, with a touch of spice. It is supported by supple, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. The finish length is very good. Will have wide-appeal. Score: 87 pts

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Mauro Molino Barolo (Piedmont) Wine Tasting

At the beginning of October, I was invited to a special tasting of some very fine Barolo wines from Piedmont's highly acclaimed Mauro Molino. The tasting was held at the Fine Wine Reserve on King St. W. in downtown Toronto.

Mauro Molino was born in Piemonte and graduated from Alba Winemaking School in 1973. After a few years of making wine in Emilia-Romagna, he returned to start his own winery in the Langhe following the passing of his father in 1979. His father left him some vineyards, which Mauro then envisioned as an opportunity to embark on a new winemaking career in his beloved homeland. After spending a few years improving his vineyards and cellar, which is built in Annunziata of La Morra, he began producing wines such as the top-end Conca in 1982, one of the Barolo area's smallest and unique single vineyards.

In 2003, Mauro's son, Matteo, joined the company as winemaker, and in 2009 his daughter Martina began working with the commercial aspect of the company. Both graduated from Alba Winemaking School and are an integral part of the winery today.

The family winery continues to produce wines in Annunziata of La Morra, with the utmost respect for traditions. In total, they have 14 hectares of vineyards, 50% of which is planted to Nebbiolo destined for Barolo.

Representing the winery at this tasting was Export Manager, Fernando Burani. He graciously poured the first few of the 10 wines that were available for tasting.

Wine reviews of my top 5 wines are provided below. All of the wines available at the tasting can be ordered online via lcbo.com. Thank you Le Sommelier for the invite and the opportunity to taste these fabulous wines.

Tasting Notes:

MAURO MOLINO ROERO ARNEIS 2017 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#588755) (XD) - $27.95
Medium-high intensity nose offers appealing notes of papaya, white peach, orange citrus and hints of Flintstone vitamins. It's medium-full bodied on the structured palate with lovely mineral and savoury character joining the ripe fruits. Clean acids and excellent length with a nice minerally finish. Score: 90+ pts

MAURO MOLINO DOLCETTO LANGHE 2017 - DOC, Piedmont, Italy (#588763) (XD) - $21.95
Nice dark berry, floral, mint and tobacco aromas and flavours, with a touch raisiny character on the medium intensity nose. It's medium-full bodied on the palate with supple tannins offering nice structure and texture. Very good fruit concentration and a long, balanced finish. Score: 89 pts

MAURO MOLINO BAROLO BRICCO LUCIANI 2014 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#588714) (XD) - $82.95
From vines located 270 metres above sea level on compact clay and limestone soils, this has a gorgeous, highly aromatic and pretty nose featuring rose florals, dried cherry, clove, and sweet vanilla oak. It is full bodied with softened tannins that have presence. Very nice aroma replays and well-balanced overall. Classy, elegant, long-lasting finish. My favourite of the tasting. Score: 93 pts

MAURO MOLINO BAROLO LA SERRA 2014 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#604065) (XD) - $96.95
From vines located in the highest part of the municipality of La Morra, at 370 to 400 metres above sea level, on calcareous/clayey soils, this has a generous nose of dark berry, blackberry, and oak spice aromas with leafy hints. It's medium-full bodied on the crunchy palate and balanced acids. Nicely balanced tannins gain presence with time. Curranty flavours add complexity on the mid-palate. Excellent finish length. Still youthful, will be better in 3-4 years. Score: 92 pts

MAURO MOLINO BAROLO CONCA 2014 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#604073) (XD) - $125.95
The nose seems shy at the moment, offering glimpses of oak spice, dark cherry, cassis and berry aromas. The palate is structured with firm tannins and flavours of mocha, chocolate and red berry notes wrapped around fresh acidity. A big wine that needs 3-4 years to integrate. Score: 92+ pts

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Wine Picks LCBO VINTAGES Release Oct. 27, 2018: Italy + Whisky

The parade of premium wines we head into the busy holiday season continues with the October 27, 2018 LCBO VINTAGES Release. Featured in this Release are impeccable wines from Italy as the main theme, while the mini-theme features whisky from three continents. All of the lovely wines from this Release will be on LCBO VINTAGES shelves across Ontario this Saturday.

We'll begin with the main theme that features twelve illustrious wines from Italy, five of which are included among my top wine picks. The lone white among them is from Umbria, made by iconic producer Marchesi Antinori, and consists of Chardonnay and a small amount of Grechetto. Moving on to the reds, there are some really excellent wines, including a 100% Aglianico from 200-year-old vines in Campania, as well as a Brunello made with 100% Sangiovese Grosso. From Tuscany, the Gran Selezione is a blend of 85% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, and 5% Colorino, while the iconic Sassicaia is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc.

Among red wines from the rest of the Release, the Côtes du Rhône Villages is a blend of mostly Grenache, with Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault in support, while the organic wine from South Africa is a blend of 90% Shiraz and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. From Armenia(!), there is a nice blend of Syrah, Tannat, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, while the Chianti Classico is a blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot. From Spain, the Rioja is a blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Mazuelo, while the Priorat is a blend of 90% Carignan and 10% Grenache. Lastly, the Napa Cab is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc.

From my white wine picks, the only blend is from Australia, consisting of 50% Marsanne, 42% Roussanne, and 8% Viognier. For those who prefer their wines with a hint of sweetness, you should look for the Riesling from either Cave Spring or Quails' Gate. If you want something off-dry, look for the Gewürztraminer, or something semi-sweet with the Tawse Riesling.

Enjoy my wine recommendations from this Release! Grazie!

Red Wine:

• CUVÉE SABRINE CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES 2015 - AC, France (#538496) (XD) - $15.95
• ALTA VISTA PREMIUM CABERNET FRANC 2016 - Mendoza, Argentina (#609081) (XD) - $17.95
• REYNEKE ORGANIC RED 2017 - WO Western Cape, South Africa (#617217) (XD) - $19.95
• MONTES ALPHA CARMENÈRE 2015 - Dry farmed, DO Colchagua Valley, Chile (#143230) (D) - $19.95
• THELEMA MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS SUTHERLAND PINOT NOIR 2015 - WO Elgin, South Africa (#624924) (XD) - $19.95

• KARAS RED 2016 - Armavir Region, Armenia (#492751) (XD) - $21.95
• CARPINETO FARNITO CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#996553) (XD) - $28.95
• VOLPAIA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2015 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#953828) (XD) - $28.95  FE
• LAN GRAN RESERVA 2010 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#928622) (XD) - $34.95  91 pts  wine review
• NATIV BICENTO 2013 - DOC Irpinia Campi Taurasini, Campania, Italy (#575035) (XD) - $41.95  94 pts  wine review

• RUFFINO RISERVA DUCALE ORO GRAN SELEZIONE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2014 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#353201) (XD) - $47.95  92 pts  wine review
• TORRES COS PERPETUAL 2015 - DOCa Priorat, Spain (#265710) (XD) - $49.95  FE
• PALAZZO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#660746) (XD) - $69.95  93 pts  wine review
• CHATEAU MONTELENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014 - Napa Valley, California, USA (#718452) (XD) - $74.95  93 pts  wine review
• SASSICAIA 2015 - DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia, Tuscany, Italy (#480533) (XD) - $225.95

White Wine:

• PIERRE SPARR RÉSERVE GEWURZTRAMINER 2016 - AC Alsace, France (#747600) (D) $18.95  89 pts  wine review
• TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA RIESLING 2016 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#089029) (M) $18.95  90 pts  wine review
• QUAILS’ GATE DRY RIESLING 2017 - BC VQA Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada (#308312) (D) - $18.95
• REDSTONE CHARDONNAY 2015 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#398966) (XD) - $19.95
• JOSÉ PARIENTE VERDEJO 2016 - DO Rueda, Spain (#345058) (XD) - $19.95
• VILLA MARIA CELLAR SELECTION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2017 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#974527) (XD) - $21.95  89 pts  wine review

• CRAGGY RANGE TE MUNA ROAD SINGLE VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2017 - Martinborough, North Island, New Zealand (#466011) (XD) - $26.95
• HERVÉ AZO CHABLIS 2016 - AC, Burgundy, France (#185736) (XD) - $27.95
• HIDDEN BENCH ESTATE CHARDONNAY 2016 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#068817) (XD) - $29.95  90 pts  wine review
• CAVE SPRING CSV RIESLING 2016 - Cave Spring Vineyard, VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#566026) (XD) - $29.95  92 pts  wine review
• COMPLICES DE LOIRE TERRES DE CAILOTTES POUILLY-FUMÉ 2016 - AC, Loire, France (#557488) (XD) - $31.95
• JOHN DUVAL PLEXUS WHITE 2016 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (#609099) (XD) - $36.95  FE
• CASTELLO DELLA SALA CERVARO DELLA SALA 2016 - IGT Umbria, Italy (#512376) (XD) - $68.95

Fortified:

• OFFLEY 10-YEAR-OLD TAWNY PORT - DOP, Portugal (#297788) (S) - $26.95

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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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Cave de Roquebrun La Grange des Combes Saint-Chinian-Roquebrun 2010 (Midi) - Wine Review

Tonight's beverage is a lovely red wine blend that I purchased 5 years ago from the March 30, 2013 LCBO VINTAGES Release. I also have the 2013 and 2015 vintages of this wine, which would've made for a nice vertical tasting, but alas, only the 2010 is opened tonight.

The latest vintage (2016) of this delicious wine can be found in the LCBO VINTAGES section for a couple of dollars more than what I paid for this wine 5 years ago.

Tasting Note:

CAVE DE ROQUEBRUN LA GRANGE DES COMBES SAINT-CHINIAN-ROQUEBRUN 2010 - AC, Midi, France (#155804) (XD) - $17.95
Blend of 50% Syrah, 30% Grenache, and 20% Mourvèdre grown on schistous soils facing south and south-east. It was raised in stainless steel tanks and bottled unfiltered. Fragrant earthy, smoky, savoury, meaty nose accented by peppery spice, black cherry, and touches of floral aromas. It is almost full bodied on the lively palate with savoury dark cherry, mineral, smoke, garrigue, blackberry flavours. Acids are still quite fresh, while firm, gritty tannins are chalky and drying. Garrigue, pepper, savoury, and mineral notes linger on the fine, long finish. A pleasure to drink, but tannins are starting to overpower the fruit. Drink now. Score: 90 pts

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Giveaway - Win Tickets to Gourmet Food & Wine Expo 2018

I am giving away Two (2) pairs of ELITE Pass tickets (valued at $100/pair) to the upcoming 2018 Gourmet Food & Wine Expo that is taking place from Thursday, November 22 to Sunday, November 25 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in downtown Toronto. These ELITE Pass Tickets grant you front-of-the-line access through the special ELITE entrance and are valid for any one day of your choosing.

Your chance to win tickets to #GFWE2018 and contest entry form is at the bottom of this post.

The 24th annual Gourmet Food & Wine Expo offers you 1,500 wines, beers, spirits and gourmet foods to experience - more than ever before. You can journey around the globe with cooking pros, talk one-on-one with industry experts and taste the newest dishes and drinks.

You will have the opportunity to sample tons of new craft beer, awesome spirits, world-class wine and of course, food from some of the area’s top restaurants and chefs.

Some of this year's highlights include:

• Tutored Tastings Program offers the opportunity to taste some of the world's best wines while learning from top industry experts.
• Chef Stage features complimentary cooking demonstrations all weekend hosted by celebrity guests and incredibly talented locals.
• #TrendCentral Stage presents interactive tastings sessions of cutting-edge wines, beers and spirits.
• Spiritology Pavilion infuses passionate bartenders into the heart of the action to showcase the latest from Toronto’s exciting cocktail scene.
• Grand Tasting Bar offers a unique opportunity to taste incredible wines alongside top industry experts.
• The Central Entertainment Area is the pulsating heart of the show, featuring eye-catching décor and dazzling entertainers throughout the four-day expo.

Having attended this event each of the past 7 years, I can tell you firsthand that you'll have a great time!

Event Details:

When:

Thursday, Nov. 22, 2018, 6-10 p.m. VIP Preview Evening Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018, 12-10 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, 12-6 p.m.

Where:

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building 255 Front Street West Toronto, ON

Must be 19 years of age or older. No children or infants permitted.

Contest:

Here's your chance to WIN a pair of tickets to Gourmet Food & Wine Expo 2018. Two (2) winners will be announced! Each winner will receive one (1) pair of tickets valued at $100 per pair. List of exhibitors.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Wine Picks LCBO VINTAGES Release Oct. 13, 2018: Bouquet List + Wine Wisdom

As we head into the busy holiday season, the VINTAGES Releases tend to get larger with an emphasis on pricier wines. The main theme of October 13, 2018 LCBO VINTAGES Release is titled "The Bouquet List", while the mini-theme is titled "Wine Wisdom". All of the wines from this Release will be on LCBO VINTAGES shelves across Ontario this coming Saturday.

We'll begin with the Bouquet List that features a 11 "must-try" wines and a $3,700 Cognac. There isn't a bad wine in the group and 7 are included among my top wine picks. First up are a pair of big wines - a Shiraz from Australia, and the Purple Angel from Chile which is a blend of 92% Carmenere and 8% Petit Verdot. The Gigondas is a blend of Grenache and Syrah, while the Barolo is 100% Nebbiolo. Staying in Italy, the Brunello is 100% Sangiovese, while the Super Tuscan Oreno is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot. Lastly, there is a 2008 Cristal Champagne made with 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay that will continue to age for many years.

The mini-theme talks about 8 wine terms and associates that term with a particular wine. From this theme, 4 of the 8 wines made my list of wine picks. Some of these terms include "malolactic conversion" that is associated with the lovely Davis Bynum Chardonnay, "lees contact" which occurred on the Sur Lie (on the lees) Muscadet Sèvre et Maine that is made with Melon de Bourgogne. The Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc underwent "stainless steel fermentation", and the last term is "Icewine production" and associated to the Cabernet Franc Icewine from Henry of Pelham.

Red wines from southern France include a Ventoux that is a blend of 50% Syrah, 30% Grenache, and 20% Mourvèdre, while the Roussillon is a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 20% Carignan. Also from France, the Bourgueil is made with Cabernet Franc. The Spanish red is a blend of Garnacha and Tempranillo, while the Clos de los Siete is a blend of 54% Malbec, 18% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Syrah, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot.

Among my white wine picks from the rest of the Release, the Bordeaux white is a 50/50 blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, while the rest are all single varietal wines. The organic Sauvignon Blanc is also suitable for vegetarians and vegans. For those who like off-dry (i.e. a little sweet) wines, look for the Gewürztraminer or the Henry of Pelham Riesling. If you prefer more sweeter in your wines, look for the Fergie Jenkins Riesling or the Riesling Kabinett.

Enjoy my wine recommendations! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• XAVIER VENTOUX 2016 - AP, Rhône, France (#413211) (D) - $15.95
• LOMA GORDA VINO DE PARCELA CERVERA DE LA CAÑADA 2013 - DOP Catalunya, Spain (#575571) (XD) - $16.95
• ZUCCARDI SERIE A BONARDA 2016 - Santa Rosa, Mendoza, Argentina (#355560) (XD) - $16.95
• DOMAINE LES PINS CUVÉE LES ROCHETTES BOURGUEIL 2015 - AP, Loire, France (#478263) (D) - $18.95
• THUNEVIN-CALVET CUVÉE CONSTANCE 2015 - AC Côtes du Roussillon-Villages, France (#168690) (D) - $18.95
• CLOS DE LOS SIETE 2014 - Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (#622571) (XD) - $23.95  89 pts  wine review
• ACHÁVAL FERRER MALBEC 2015 - Mendoza, Argentina (#024737) (XD) - $29.95  90 pts  wine review

• GABRIEL MEFFRE SAINTE-CATHERINE GIGONDAS 2015 - AP, Rhône, France (#370270) (XD) - $32.95
• DOMAINE GASTON & PIERRE RAVAUT LADOIX 2015 - AC, Burgundy, France (#557777) (XD) - $40.95
• DOMAINE DROUHIN ROSEROCK PINOT NOIR 2015 - Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA (#529107) (XD) - $41.95  91+ pts  wine review
• ARGIANO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#154609) (XD) - $59.95
• RÉVA BAROLO 2013 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#490045) (XD) - $59.95  92 pts  wine review
• MONTES PURPLE ANGEL 2015 - DO Colchagua Valley, Chile (#62364) (XD) - $62.95
• ORENO 2016 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#735597) (XD) - $86.95
• ELDERTON COMMAND SINGLE VINEYARD SHIRAZ 2014 - Barossa, South Australia (#716142) (XD) - $99.95

White Wine:

• ROCKWAY FERGIE JENKINS LIMITED EDITION RIESLING 2016 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#485326) (M) - $16.95
• LA GRIFFE BERNARD CHÉREAU SUR LIE MUSCADET SÈVRE ET MAINE 2017 - Sur lie, AP, Loire, France (#948182) (XD) - $17.95
• CAVE SPRING ESTATE GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2015 - Cave Spring Vineyard, VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#302059) (D) - $18.95
• HENRY OF PELHAM ESTATE RIESLING 2017 - VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#557165) (D) - $19.95
• MOMO ORGANIC SAUVIGNON BLANC 2016 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#009167) (XD) - $19.95  90 pts  wine review
• DR. PAULY-BERGWEILER WEHLENER SONNENUHR RIESLING KABINETT 2015 - Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany (#557652) (M) - $23.95  90 pts  wine review
• GREYWACKE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2017 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#164228) (XD) - $24.95
• LE G DE CHÂTEAU GUIRAUD 2016 - AC Bordeaux, France (#519892) (XD) - $28.95  FE
• DAVIS BYNUM RIVER WEST VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2015 - Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, USA (#205815) (XD) - $29.95  90 pts  wine review
• CLOS PEGASE MITSUKO’S VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2016 - Estate grown, Carneros, Napa Valley, California, USA (#986737) (XD) - $34.95  91 pts  wine review

Sparkling Wine:

• CRISTAL BRUT VINTAGE CHAMPAGNE 2008 - AC, France (#268755) (XD) - $311.95

Dessert Wine:

• HENRY OF PELHAM CABERNET ICEWINE 2015 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#672402) (S) (200 mL) - $39.95

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Pierre Sparr Réserve Pinot Gris 2016 (Alsace) and Vieni Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (Niagara) - Wine Reviews

Opened up these two delicious wines last night to celebrate Thanksgiving long weekend.

The Pinot Gris was purchased from the recent September 15 LCBO VINTAGES Release, while the Cabernet Sauvignon is from an excellent 2010 Niagara vintage and was purchased when visiting the winery in June 2016.

Tasting Notes:

PIERRE SPARR RÉSERVE PINOT GRIS 2016 - AC Alsace, France (#983395) (D) - $18.95
The nose is soft and mild, featuring waxy, lemon, and orange citrus aromas. The plush palate is more lively and a touch oily, with nice orange citrus, honeyed, and peach flavours in an off-dry style on a medium+ bodied frame. Acids are bright, fresh, and provide lift, while the finish is long and juicy. Score: 88+ pts

VIENI RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010 - VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#373308) (XD) - $19.95
Matured considerably since I last tasted this wine. The mature nose has savoury black plum, earth, and barnyard aromas. It's medium-full bodied on the palate with currant, cassis, red and black fruits all wrapped around a savoury profile. Tannins are soft and nearly fully integrated, with just a touch of grip. Juicy acids. Very good length on the savoury, earthy finish. Score: 88 pts

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Momo Organic Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (New Zealand) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is the delicious white wine companion to the red 2016 Momo Pinot Noir that I enjoyed recently, It was released into LCBO VINTAGES on April 28 and is virtually sold out at the moment, but will be coming back to shelves as part of the October 13 LCBO VINTAGES Release.

This organic white wine is produced by Seresin Estate, a leading organic and biodynamic producer in New Zealand, and comes from their second line of wines called 'Momo', which means 'offspring' in Maori. This white wine is also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

It was a challenging cold start in 2016, with pressure to fight frosts during the early stage of vine growth. However, a spectacularly long and warm summer, with dry weather during the harvest period allowed the fruit to be picked on-time, delivered intact, and without stress. One-third of the 100% certified organic fruit was sourced from their own Tatou and Raupo Creek vineyards, which also has biodynamic certification, while the remainder was sourced from certified organic growers - whose vineyards they help manage - in Wairau and Waihopai Valleys.

Tasting Note:

MOMO ORGANIC SAUVIGNON BLANC 2016 - Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#009167) (XD) - $19.95
Naturally fermented with wild yeast in stainless steel tanks, and aged on the lees for 6 months. Screw cap. This has a lovely, open, fragrant nose of kiwi, guava, tropical fruit, asparagus, and lemon, with hints of yellow pepper and mineral adding complexity. It's medium-bodied on the palate with a nice creamy texture and lovely aroma replays joined by some wet wool flavours. Succulent, crisp acids are juicy. Minerally and grapefruit-tinged on the long finish. This is very nice. Highly recommended. Score: 90 pts

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