Dave Isaacs 2/20/23 Dave Isaacs 2/20/23

February 20, 2023 Newsletter

There is an embarrassment of excellent wines scoring quite highly and keeping the price within reason given the high quality of the wine

There is an embarrassment of excellent wines scoring quite highly and keeping the price within reason given the high quality of the wine.

Classics Catalogue: January, 2023

The following 2018 Lungarotti ‘San Giorgio – Rosso’ was sourced from approximately 50% cabernet sauvignon and 50% sangiovese plus a very small amount of an indigenous grape--canaiolo. There are still more than 150 bottles available in the January Classics Catalogue. If you fish in these upscale waters, you will want to reel in a few.

93
Lungarotti ‘San Giorgio – Rosso’ 2018
IGT Umbria, Italy $63.00 (237883) 14.0% alcohol
A delightful red wine that is available through the January Classics Catalogue on the LCBO site. It is quite aromatic with earthy notes, red and dark berry along with juicy cherry that is replayed on the palate with plenty of tang and pizzazz. This showcases ripe fruit flavour from cork pop to final drop with good balance, soft ripe tannin and plenty of persistent purity of fruit to and through the finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside medium-rare grilled flank steak. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Releases

Vintages Release: January 21, 2023

92 ✓ Value
Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Pinot Noir 2021
South Australia $19.95 (237883) 14.0% alcohol
This wine was matured for nine months in oak and emerged with aromas of eucalyptus, baking spice and ripe mulberry fruit along with red pie cherry and sandalwood on the nose after a few gentle swirls. It blankets the palate with juicy ripe cherry/berry fruit along with tang, spice and pizzazz and an underpinning of soft, ripe tannin from twist top to last drop along with good mouthfeel and plenty of delightful flavours. The price-quality balance tips in your favour. Order an armful and pour with rack of lamb or a premium cut of beef steak. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: February 4, 2023

The following 2019 Viña Real ‘Crianza’ was sourced from 90% tempranillo and the 10% balance from the following three grape varieties garnacha/mazuelo/graciano. All fruit was sourced from both estate-owned vines and vineyards from local vignerons that have been supplying grapes to this winery for decades and all grapes were hand-harvested. The wine underwent malolactic fermentation followed by maturation of the wine for 13 or 14 months in French and American oak barrels. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour at $19.95 for a 92-point score.

92 ✓ Value
Viña Real ‘Crianza’ 2019
DOCa Rioja, Spain $19.95 (237883) 13.5%
A delightful wine with colourful aromas of floral notes that meld nicely with fruit-forward aromas of dark and juicy cherry, black currant and blueberry and tell-tale signs of its time in oak with baking spice, toasty notes and notions of grilled savory herbs. The palate is treated to a gusher of well balanced and structured almost smooth and mellow fruit, tang and pizzazz from the first taste to the finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own or with hearty stew, cassoulet or osso buco. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2021 Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Chardonnay was sourced from 2 Geographical Indications—the cool Clare Valley and the warmer Padthaway G.I. with the latter considered ‘fabulous for Chardonnay’ that is in the top class of all Australia along with Margaret River where you will pay twice the price for a Chardonnay of this calibre and quality. Pick up an armful while it is still on LCBO shelves.

93 ✓ Value
Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Chardonnay 2021
G I’s, Padthaway/Clare Valley, South Australia $17.95 (237883) 13.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of fruit flavours—Granny Smith apple and ripe pear mingle with citrus notes of blood orange, Meyer lemon and Key lime pie. A gusher of creamy-smooth mouthfeel blankets the palate with fruit-forward flavours of lemon curd, green apple, white nectarine and toasted notes. It’s medium-full bodied with plenty of tang and pizzazz. It showcases persistent purity of fruit to and through the lip-smacking finish and the dazzling aftertaste. Pour with roast chicken or pan-seared breaded pork cutlets. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Calamus Estate Winery ‘Ball’s Falls - Red’
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of rich, dark berry fruit, dark chocolate and cassis abound on the nose of this deftly balanced, gorgeously flavoured red. It dishes up mouthfuls of sweet-tinged fruit—dark cherry and ripe bramble berry interwoven with excellent tang and acidity and mixed spice. It’s medium bodied with good mouthfeel and a lengthy finish oozing with flavour, tangy acidity and plenty of charm. Load up the trunk and pour with steak, burgers or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: February 18, 2023

The following 2018 Yalumba ‘Family Wine Merchants - Samuel’s Collection-Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon’ was fashioned with fruit that was sourced from vines that were 10- to 35-years-old from the Barossa Geographical Indication. Yalumba is an iconic winery. From the Hill-Smith family, who have owned and operated the winery for over 170 years, to their community of growers, the whole Yalumba family is dedicated to the same thing: making exceptional wine. This wine can be consumed now or over the next five years. The wine was matured in 19% new French and Hungarian oak hogsheads and barriques and balanced with 1 to 5 year-old French, American and Hungarian barrels.

95 ✓ Value
Yalumba ‘Family Wine Merchants - Samuel’s Collection-Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon’ 2018
GI Barossa, Australia $24.95 (237883) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas galore waft from the gentlest of swirls—mocha, red and dark cherry/berry fruit and dark plum compote. There is a replay on the palate with flavours of tangy red pie cherry and plenty of pizzazz juxtaposed with a touch of savoury herbs and rich, sweet flavours of cassis and kirsch liqueur that persist through the finish and aftertaste. Simply delectable. Give it a go with rack of lamb just off the barbie or beer-can cooked chicken. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2015 Bodegas Altanza was sourced from Rioja’s native grape variety – tempranillo. Decanter rated this wine at 96 points, without, however, any tasting notes.

95 ✓ Value
Bodegas Altanza ‘Gran Reserva’ 2015
DOCa Rioja, Spain $30.95 (237883) 14.0% alcohol
Deep and brooding in the glass, it gives off strong spice—sandalwood and fruit-driven aromas with the gentlest of swirls—black currant, bramble berry pie, mulberry and Saskatoon berry galore. Some of the above aromas replay on the palate with black currant and bramble berry pie to the fore. This has deft balance between soft, ripe tannin, ripened berry fruit and plenty of tang and pizzazz to and through the finish and lengthy aftertaste. Pour with chorizo and prawn paella.

Upstream in Winecurrent

Vintages Release: March 4, 2023

The following 2019 Henry of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Cabernet-Merlot was hand-harvested from cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc and merlot that were kept to below 2 tonnes per acre and aged in French oak barrels. It is also accredited as being a sustainable winemaking winery by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario.

93 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Cabernet-Merlot 2019
VQA Short Hills Bench $44.95 (237883) 13.2% alcohol
There is plenty of time for this blooming red blend to settle down and make its way to the top of the ladder—careful cellaring for another two years should take of that. It has intriguing aromas of rose petals, dark cherry/berry fruit and on the palate there’s plenty of tang and juicy red fruit flavour and a pleasing share of ripe, juicy black raspberry and an underpinning of firm, but ripe tannin on the palate and aftertaste. Patience should be rewarded, especially if carefully cellared. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: March 18, 2023

The following 2018 C.V.N.E. ‘CUNE – Reserva’ was sourced from their own estate vineyards known as Caballeros, Santo Tomás and Sarnamoros and they are found in the villages of Rodezno, Villalba and Haro at an altitude between 500 to 600 meters above sea level. The grape varieties are 85% tempranillo and the other 15% are shared between these three varieties—garnacha tinta/graciano/mazuelo. This wine is vegan-friendly.

93
C.V.N.E. ‘CUNE – Reserva’ 2018
DOCa Rioja, Spain $22.95 (237883) 14.0% alcohol
There are easily coaxed aromas with the gentlest of swirls and they are worth the effort. The red fruits and liquorice are well integrated with barrel-affected aromas of piquant spice and cigarette tobacco leaf. A long slow ripening was provided and it enabled the production of great, intense wines. This is quite elegant on the palate providing a wine of great balance and fruit-flavour that linger on the finish and aftertaste. You may want to pick up a few and serve with calamari rings breaded lightly and pan-seared in butter. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: April 1, 2023

The following 2021 Gérard Bertrand ‘Cote des Roses’ Chardonnay is sourced from 100% chardonnay in vineyards along the Mediterranean coast. The bottle with the rose petals etched into the base of the wine bottle was a work of art from a student attending Ecole Boulle in France.

93 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand ‘Cote des Roses’ Chardonnay 2021
IGP Pays D’Oc, France $18.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
The wine is also a work of art. It has just about all you would expect or want. Dazzling aromas of citrus—lemon pastille, clementine orange and sweet ripe pineapple abound on the nose and the palate along with excellent balancing tang from glass pop (that is how it is sealed with a glass stopper) to last drop and a juicy finish and aftertaste. Pick up a few and you will be surprised at how interesting this wine’s aromas attracts and how delightful you’ll find it in the glass and on the palate, how wonderful it tastes. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: April 15, 2023

The following 2021 Gérard Bertrand ‘Domaine L’Aigle – Pinot Noir is sourced from estate vineyards in Limoux in the foothills of the Pyrenees with Pinot Noir being planted between 250 and 500 meters. Fruit is hand-harvested and transported to the winery in small boxes. The wine is not filtered before bottling. It is Demeter-certified as a biodynamique wine.

92
Gérard Bertrand ‘Domaine L’Aigle – Pinot Noir 2021
IGP Haut Vallée de L’Aude, France $35.00 (237883) 14.0% alcohol
Very intensive aromas of small berries fill the room after a swirl or three. The palate is treated to a gusher of tender fruit that’s finely spiced on the finish and aftertaste. There are silky tannins and exceptional structure on the lip-smacking finish and the tangy aftertaste. This wine is best served between 12-14 ° C alongside grilled red meat or roasted poultry. Give it a try when it’s released. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2021 Gérard Bertrand ‘Orange Gold – Organic Wine’ pays homage to the very first ‘orange wines’ from Georgia some 4,500 years ago. The ‘Georgia’ is from Eastern Europe, not one of the U.S southern states. The grape varieties in this wine are the following—chardonnay/grenache blanc/viognier/marsanne/mauzac/muscat.

90
Gérard Bertrand ‘Orange - Gold – Organic Wine’ 2021
Product of France, $24.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of piquant spice, sharp citrus of blood orange, lemon curd and pomegranate are easily found after three or four swirls. Replays on the palate include blood orange and lemon curd with plenty of tang and pizzazz. There are also notions of flinty minerality and grapefruit pith on the finish and aftertaste. A wine to be savoured on its own or with cheese or aperitifs. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

The following wine may be purchased online or at the winery—here’s a link—Henry of Pelham Winery—and delivered to your door or you may find product at your local LCBO retail store.
The following 2021 Speck Bros. ‘Revel’ Cabernet-Baco Noir Dark Red was sourced from the ripest grapes grown in some of the warmest vineyards in the Niagara Peninsula. The grapes were fermented in stainless steel then matured for six months in oak. The price-quality proposition skews in your favour at this price… stock up.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦  Speck Bros. ‘Revel’ Cabernet-Baco Noir Dark Red 2021 VQA Ontario $15.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
A rich, aromatic nose of gamy notes, exotic spice and a flourish of savoury notes intertwine with expressive ripe cherry notes. It bathes the palate with tangy pizzazz and fresh fruit flavours of black plum, bramble berry and black Bing cherry. This is medium weight with creamy mouthfeel and plenty to like. There’s deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and a lingering lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour with barbecued meats—gourmet sausage, backyard burgers or steak. (Vic Harradine)

Order the following wines by the case for daily home or office directly online from Kacaba Vineyards with FREE shipping in Ontario on orders of six bottles or more, by phone at 1 866 522-2228 or 1 905 562-5625, or pick up a bottle or case from the winery (curbside pick-up or shop in the boutique it’s open 10 am to 5 pm seven days a week) at 3550 King Street in Vineland ON.
We’re most appreciative for your continued support and all that the winecurrent.com team do to promote VQA Ontario wines. Should your subscribers like to visit Kacaba Vineyards & Winery after reading your wine reviews, we want to offer them a Buy-One-Get-One discount for wine tasting reservations booked online by using your personalized discount code (case sensitive): WINECURRENT
Please note that this discount code is only eligible on 2 OR MORE wine tastings per reservation, and must be booked via our website: http://www.exploretock.com/kacabavineyards Please feel free to promote this in your publication as the code is already active.

92 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards ‘Proprietor’s Block - Escarpment’ Syrah 2019
VQA Niagara Escarpment $35.15 13.8% alcohol
Alluring aromas are sleek and elegant with boysenberry pie, © Ribena and cassis to the fore followed by grilled savoury herbs, soft ripe tannin and plenty of tang-laden palate-fruit flavours of black cherry/berry fruit that lingers on the finish and aftertaste along with 10% Viognier. Give this a go with cassoulet, osso buco or grilled vegetables for vegans. (Vic Harradine)

The syrah vines that were sourced for the following wine were planted in 1998, making them the oldest syrah vines on site. They were harvested for this wine when they were 21-years-old.

92 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards ‘Silver Bridge Vineyard - Escarpment’ Syrah 2019
VQA Niagara Escarpment $35.15 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of blueberry, black juicy cherry and piquant spice abound on the nose of this nicely balanced syrah. There are creamy-smooth mouthfuls of deftly balanced and delightfully delicious ambrosia on the lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside grilled steak, beer-can roasted chicken or grilled and mopped pork back ribs with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2020 Kacaba ‘Reserve – Meritage’ was sourced from the dazzling 2020 vintage made up from 40% cabernet sauvignon/35% cabernet franc/25% merlot sourced from the estate vineyards of the renowned VQA Niagara Escarpment.

93 🇨🇦
Kacaba ‘Reserve – Meritage’ 2020
VQA Niagara Escarpment $60.15 14.8% alcohol
Delightful aromas of cassis, Saskatoon berries, juicy black plum and black Bing cherry waft easily after the gentlest of swirls. A river of palate flavours dominated by piquant spice and wood-smoke along with tangy passionfruit, pie cherry and a smooth and mellow mouthfeel and plenty of pizzazz. This is nicely balanced and dishes up a persistent purity of fruit from cork pop to last drop. Give this a try with Asian eggplant and freshly picked zucchini and a generous helping of fried onions and cooked, minced beef. (Vic Harradine)

94 🇨🇦
Kacaba ‘Reserve – Cabernet Franc’ 2020
VQA Niagara Escarpment $60.15 14.9% alcohol
Rich, luscious aromas of dark cherry/berry fruit—blueberry, boysenberry, cassis and black juicy Bing cherry juxtaposed with tangy pie cherry. A stream of fruit-driven palate-flavours with the following to the fore—ripe Saskatoon berries, tangy passionfruit, ripe black cherries and plenty of tang and pizzazz underpinned with smooth soft tannin and savoury oak after 19 months of French and American barrel ageing. The finish and aftertaste meld nicely along with svelte tannin. Pour alongside medium-rare skirt steak,

The following Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Pinot Noir 2021 sourced pinot noir grapes from three Beamsville Bench sites. The blend is 56% Mottiar Vineyard/35% Moira Vineyard/10% Malivoire Estate, with all hand-harvested between September 30th and October 12th, 2021. Most of the grapes were destemmed with 6% held in whole clusters then divided into two lots, one in stainless steel and the other in concrete tanks. The wines were next combined to mature nine months in French oak barrels. After blending, 654 cases were bottled in August, 2022.

94 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Pinot Noir 2021
VQA Beamsville Bench $29.95 12.0% alcohol
When poured in the glass it shines with lightly-hued bright ruby red colour galore. Aromas of earthy notes and red cherry/berry fruit waft easily with the gentlest of swirls. It blankets the palate with delightful fruit-forward flavours of pie cherry, blueberry, black bramble berry and oodles of sharp tang and pizzazz expressed as delightful acidity of rhubarb flavour and Montmorency pie cherry. The finish and aftertaste are lengthy and persistent purity of fruit that is deftly balanced. Pick up an armful and drink now to 2028 with careful cellaring. Pour alongside home-smoked duck breast adorned with home-made mango marmalade. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Forgotten Row’ Chardonnay were the last hand-harvested Chardonnay grapes from the estate-owned mature vines of the Moira Vineyard on October 1st, 2020 with the average sugar content of the unfermented grape registering in at 22.6 ° C. This wine was fermented and pressed from destemmed grapes that were fermented in five French oak barrels—one barrel was new, two barrels were second use and two were neutral with monthly bâtonnage—aka lees stirring—for the first five months. Barrels were blended and the wine integrated for a further three months in a large, previously used large oak barrel. The finished wine was bottled after just over a year in oak in December 2021. It is available only at the Malivoire winery that you can access online on their website and have it delivered to your door or by ordering ahead of time and picking it up at the winery. Your call. Drink now to 2028.

96 ✓ Value 🇨🇦 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Forgotten Row’ Chardonnay 2020 VQA Beamsville Bench $34.95 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of buckwheat honey, caramel and baked apple make an appearance on the nose and replay on the palate with a freshly baked apple pie flavour adorned with baking spice, lemon pastille and a tinge of a trick or treat Halloween caramel apple. The mouthfeel is absolutely amazing and creamy-smooth from first sip to last drop as are the fabulous flavours that persist to and through the finish and aftertaste. The 2020 vintage is a dazzling one in virtually all VQA appellations and sub-appellations, especially in Ontario. This may be named the ‘Forgotten Row’, but if you get a chance to taste it, you’ll not forget how wonderful this wine tastes, on its own and/or with pan-seared-in-butter Atlantic salmon. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2022 Malivoire Wine Company Pinot Gris was hand-harvested September 15th to 18th from mature vines that achieved an average sugar content of 20.6 ° brix of the unfermented sugar in the grapes. Hand-sorted clusters were destemmed and pressed for primary fermentation in stainless steel tank. The new wine settled in tank for four months prior to bottling in January, 2023

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦  Malivoire Wine Company Pinot Gris 2022 VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of honeydew melon, savoury herbs and notions of piquant citrus—lemon curd and Key lime give way to the palate of Granny Smith apple and grilled and lightly sugared pink grapefruit sections that persist through the finish and aftertaste. Give this a go now to 2026 alongside fish tacos, grilled calamari or a deli platter of mixed sushi. (Vic Harradine)

Use this link - Rockway Vineyards - to search their winery website for the following and other wines available to you as they will take your order online and deliver to your home, business office or licensed restaurant. You can also phone them as they are open daily 11 am to 6 pm – 1-905-641-5771 or you can email them - wine@rockway.net

The following wines are being released by Rockway Vineyards and you may also find them in the near future on shelves of LCBO retail stores. The oldest hand-harvested vines sought for the following wine were 18-years-old at time of harvest. This wine was settled for 48 hours, during 10 months of oak maturation the wine was fermented in one new French oak barrel while the balance was aged in tank. The entire winemaking team deserves a doff of your and my hat for producing this gem. Give it a go.

93 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $25.00 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of citrus fruit—orange, lemon and grapefruit are intertwined with leesy notes and an interesting streak of saline on the palate along with persistent fruit-flavours of sweet white nectarine and yellow Mirabelle plum to and through the finish and aftertaste. There is also good balance along with the lip-smacking finish and tang-laden aftertaste. Give this a go alongside roast chicken or turkey with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

92 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Gamay Noir’ 2021
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $24.00 12.0% alcohol
It’s medium-bodied, deftly balanced and oozing with excellent aromas and its fair share of fruit-flavoured notes along with tang and pizzazz. There is also alluring aromas of baking spice, rhubarb and strawberry pie. The delicious fruit flavours on the palate, finish and aftertaste carry the day. Give this a go with a glass of wine on its own then try with prosciutto-wrapped figs stuffed with chèvre and topped with a balsamic glaze. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2021 Rockway Vineyards ‘Pinot Noir’ is light in colour and barely ruby red in the glass. The grapes were hand-harvested at the end of September from their estate vineyard. The fruit was crushed into tank with the juice undergoing a five-day cold soak then warmed to an alcoholic fermentation with punch-downs twice a day. It was then pressed-off to settle in a stainless steel tank before being racked to French oak barrels, 33% new. Natural malo-lactic conversion occurred in barrel and the wine remained in barrel for an additional time of ten months before it was racked back to tank where it settled prior to being filtered and bottled.

92 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Pinot Noir’ 2021
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $28.00 12.5% alcohol

Alluring aromas of bramble berry, cassis and floral notes, waft easily after the gentlest swirl. The palate is treated to an elegant-tinged stream of Montmorency pie cherry, ripe, red raspberry and plenty of tang and pizzazz from initial cork pop to the very last drop. Pour alongside Coq au vin or Peking duck. (Vic Harradine)

The following easy-drinking 2021 Rockway Vineyards ‘Pink Ribbon – Rosé’ was sourced from 100% cabernet franc from the Rockway Estate Vineyard on the renowned Twenty Mile Bench.

93 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Pink Ribbon – Rosé’ 2021
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $22.00 12.5% alcohol
It sits in the glass with a psychedelic pink colour while aromas of candy floss, strawberry and notions of sweet white lilac abound on the nose before the palate is treated to a smorgasbord of flavours with tang-infused Montmorency red pie cherry, ripe black raspberry and notions of pomegranate persists to and through the finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with pan-seared-in-butter Atlantic salmon or a green salad dressed with extra-virgin olive oil, a dash of red-wine vinegar and crumbled chèvre along with sliced grape tomatoes, chunks of cut cucumber and a generous helping of grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2020 Rockway Vineyards ‘Clubhouse White’ is an inspired blend of 86% vidal/10% riesling/4% chardonnay that delivers a pure expression of blended wine from the VQA Twenty-Mile Bench. Once fermentation was finished naturally the wine was left on its ferment lees for 4 months before being stabilized, filtered and bottled.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Clubhouse White’ 2020
VQA Twenty-Mile Bench $17.00 10.5% alcohol
Aromas of floral notes, musky cantaloupe and buckwheat honey abound on the nose of this delightful fruit-driven—off-dry beauty with palate flavours of mango, ripe pear and lemon pastille mingling with grilled and sweetened pineapple and grilled and sugar-topped ruby red grapefruit juxtaposed with plenty of tang and pizzazz. This is medium-bodied with good mouthfeel and texture throughout. It’s nicely balanced on the palate, finish and aftertaste. Don’t hesitate to pick up a few as you can sip on its own or pour with your favourite snacks or with a plate of sushi or a deli platter. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2021 Rockway Vineyards ‘Clubhouse Red’ is another inspired blend. This time there are four grape varieties with two leading the way—54% baco noir and 33% cabernet franc along with a smaller combination of 8% syrah and 5% merlot.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Clubhouse Red’ 2021
VQA Twenty-Mile Bench $18.00 13.0% alcohol
This is an inspired blend of near-perfection with the baco noir and the cabernet franc. Aromas of mulberry and blueberry abound on the nose of this dazzling red wine. It blankets the palate with a gusher of black Bing cherry and notions of bramble berry along with a laser-like stream of delightful tang and pizzazz to balance off the ripe fruit flavours. Pour this with barbecued burgers or grilled gourmet sausage or meat-laden, red-sauced pizza. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers!

Dave, Lisa, Louise, and Vic

Dave Isaacs 1/14/23 Dave Isaacs 1/14/23

January 14, 2023 Newsletter

Newsletter highlights:

Limited Time Offers (9 wines)
Upstream in Winecurrent (14 wines)
New in Ontario Wineries (12 wines)

Newsletter highlights:

Limited Time Offers (9 wines)
Upstream in Winecurrent (14 wines)
New in Ontario Wineries (12 wines)

Limited Time Offers

These wines are discounted at LCBO retail stores and can be ordered on-line via the LCBO website January 2 to January 29, 2023 unless otherwise stated. There are 9 interesting wines reviewed in total in this section.

Red Wines

The following 2 red wines provide a $3.00 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to January 29, 2023.

88
Concha y Toro ‘Winemaker’s Lot 148’ Carmenère
Rapel Valley, Chile $19.95 (237883) 14.0% alcohol - now available for $16.95 a bottle
This is good value and it’s rich, ripe and rarin’ to go now. A beautifully balanced river of juicy black Bing cherry and black plum interweave with racy pomegranate and herbal notes on the creamy- smooth palate along with mixed spice and mocha. It’s a bit funky on the nose with some bell pepper and strong herbal notes, but that melts away and you’re left with a creamy-smooth, hedonistic offering. It pours and pairs well with burgers, red pizza or lasagna. (Vic Harradine)

92
Seven Falls Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Washington State $23.95 (237883) 14.5% alcohol - now available at $20.95 a bottle
This matured 15 to 18 months in seasoned and new oak barrel, mostly American with the balance French. There are aromas of dark berry fruit, mixed spice and espresso roast galore. This is ready to drink and oozing flavour with palate-coating flavours of dried currant and black, juicy Bing cherry interwoven with mint leaf, spice and vanilla. It finishes as it started—deftly balanced, fruit-forward, good depth and plenty of charm from cork pop to last drop. (Vic Harradine)

The following 3 red wines provide a $2.00 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to January 29, 2023.
The following Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores. The discounted price ($14.95) makes this ‘Riserva’ worthy of picking up a few, perhaps even a case.

90 ✓ Value
Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti
DOCG Chianti, Italy $16.95 (237883) 13.5% alcohol – now available at $14.95
Aromas of cherry/berry fruit and floral notes introduce a medium-bodied, nicely textured stream of lively, tang-laden palate flavour with red currant, ripe black cherry and passionfruit. This is primarily sangiovese with a cup or two of cabernet sauvignon and merlot. It’s medium weight, nicely textured with good red fruit flavour framed with tang and underpinned by wisps of soft tannin. A wash of pie cherry and red currant jelly races over the palate persisting through the finish and adorned with wisps of tannin on the aftertaste. Best poured with pasta in a tomato-based sauce; try spaghetti Bolognese or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

89
Cathedral Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
WO Paarl, South Africa $18.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol – now available at $16.95
Smoky, earthy and dried cherry aromatics waft from the glass of this medium-bodied red. There are a good deal of sweet, black, ripe cherry and plum flavours with hints of chocolate and tar in the involved flavour profile. All this is wrapped around perceptible tannins and oaky notes that may need some time to quiet down. Drink now with rare or medium-rare pepper steak. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value
La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon
Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina $16.95 (237883) alcohol 14.0% - now available at $14.95
Twelve months of maturation in French and American oak barrels is expressed with mixed spice and chocolate but also roasted plum and mushroom aromas in this medium-full bodied red from an excellent vintage. Initially velvety on the palate with spicy dark fruit and cola flavours, it morphs into an enjoyable robust and peppery juice with grippy tannins and a bright note of dry cherry extending in the finish and delicious aftertaste. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside lamb kofta or stuffed Portobello mushroom. (Louise Boutin)

White Wines

The following White Wine receives a $2.00 discount now to January 29, 2023

92 ✓ Value
Columbia Crest Chardonnay
Columbia Valley, Washington State $18.95 (237883) 13.5% alcohol - now available at $16.95
Lifted aromas of spiced apple, pear and apricot introduce a gorgeous mouthful of ginger-infused tropical fruit and lemon pie filling. This is mid-plus weight with generous mouthfeel and oodles of charm. It finishes lengthy and luxurious with loads of fruit crowned with excellent moderating acidity. Pour with roast bird, pan-seared, firm fish or crown roast pork. (Vic Harradine)

The following Château des Charmes Vidal Icewine receives a discount of $4.00 per 200 mL bottle

90 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes Vidal Icewine
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $28.95 200ml (237883) 9.5% alcohol – now available at $24.95 a 200 mL bottle
This is the perfect after-dinner treat on its own or with dessert and … it’s the ideal size for two or three people to enjoy. Aromas and flavours of mango-infused treacle, candied-peel marmalade and racy lemon curd interweave on the nose, palate and delectable finish and aftertaste—this is absolutely delicious. It’s also perfectly balanced and the perfect hostess gift. (Vic Harradine)

Receive free Aeroplan points for the purchase of either or both of the following 2 wines purchased now to January 28, 2023

91
Charles Smith ‘Wines of Substance’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington State, U.S.A. $23.95 (237883) 13.5% alcohol – the purchase of this wine will award you 100 free Aeroplan points per bottle purchased.
This superb Washington State cabernet sauvignon is opaque in the glass and alive with aromas of mocha, cherry, vanilla and traces of rosemary. It hits the palate full bodied and bursting with juicy, red fruit flavours. The tannin’s prominent but smooth and there’s good balance of acidity drawing out a pleasantly herbaceous finish. Cellar for another 5 years or enjoy now with a juicy, medium-rare steak. There is very good value here. (Dave Isaacs)

90
Le Volte dell’Ornellaia
IGT Toscana, Italy $29.95 (237883) 14.0% alcohol – the purchase of this wine will award you 190 free Aeroplan points per bottle purchased.
A highly anticipated, perennial favourite, this blend of 67% merlot, 20% cabernet sauvignon, 13% sangiovese, is ready to drink, fair value and shouldn’t disappoint. Dark berry fruit, piquant spice and mint aromas abound before dishing up a focused line of crunchy pie cherry and tart passionfruit scurrying across the palate adorned with notions of mixed spice and mocha, This is medium bodied with silky-smooth texture and soft ripe tannin. Drink now after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in Winecurrent

Vintages Release: January 7, 2023

It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Local Find’

93 🇨🇦
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Reserve Series’ Merlot - Shiraz 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
Pipe tobacco, exotic sandalwood and pomegranate aromas abound. It rolls over the palate with delicious flavours of tang-laden pie cherry, grilled savoury herbs and ripe juicy black currant robed in piquant spice and wisps of black licorice. This is medium-plus bodied with textured mouthfeel and a long finish and aftertaste. It’s drinking well now and pours well with shepherd’s pie, tourtière or grilled steak. There’s good value here. (Vic Harradine)

It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Smart Buys’
The following 2016 Pelee Island Winery ‘Vinedressers’ Cabernet Sauvignon/Petit Verdot is primarily cabernet sauvignon with only a splash of petit verdot according to the winery’s technical sheet.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Pelee Island Winery ‘Vinedressers’ Cabernet Sauvignon/Petit Verdot 2016
VQA South Islands $19.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
Easily coaxed aromas translate to persistent purity of fruit to and through the palate, finish and aftertaste consisting of black berry, juicy Bing cherry and black plum adorned with savoury palate flavours of roasted sprigs of herbs and plenty of tang and pizzazz. This is balanced with good mouthfeel and underpinned with soft tannin. Give this a go after a one- or two-hour aeration/decant. Pour alongside chicken pot pie or Coq au vin. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2019 Ivory & Burt ‘Old Vine Zinfandel’ pays homage to two of the early settlers in Lodi—Charles Ivory and J.M. Burt. The Lodi soils are rich in minerals and well-drained along with a Mediterranean climate of warm afternoons and cool evenings that allows grapes to develop ripe fruit flavours. These fruit-forward wines have nice acid balance that characterize the quintessential Lodi style that has made and kept its sterling reputation. This is 100% sustainably grown and ages in new American oak.
This wine scored a Double Gold at the 2022 New York International Wine Competition.

91 ✓ Value
Ivory & Burt ‘Old Vine Zinfandel’ 2019
Lodi, California $19.95 (237883) 15.0% alcohol
Ripe and rich aromas of black cherry/berry fruit and mixed spice and savoury herbs abound on the nose of this rich, luscious Zin. It surges over the palate with black currant, black raspberry and hints of passionfruit and pie cherry that balance each other on the palate and throughout the finish and aftertaste. This has depth and complexity along with a good underpinning of supple tannin. Try this with grilled and smoked back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Smart Buys’
The following 2021 William Févre – ‘Mountain Grown - Reserva Especial’ Chardonnay was sourced from 100% Chardonnay and is from the clone supplied from William Févre’s vineyard in Burgundy some 25 years ago. The vineyard yield is 7,500 kg /ha taken from the San Luis Vineyard positioned at almost 700 M above sea level in the midst of thorns and briers. This wine punches well above the price-quality balance so pick up more than one, if you can.

91 ✓ Value
William Févre – ‘Mountain Grown – Espino - Reserva Especial’ Chardonnay 2021
DO Maipo Valley - Andes, Chile $15.95 (237883) 13.8% alcohol
Aromas of ripe apricot, peel marmalade and lemon curd are easily coaxed from the wine with the gentlest of swirls. It captures the palate with a balanced and bountiful surge of ripe pineapple, plenty of tang and pizzazz and finishes with a dollop of buckwheat honey. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour—pick up a few and pour with pan-seared-in-butter fresh Atlantic salmon. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2019 Sidewood Estate ‘Stablemate’ Cabernet Sauvignon tips well in your favour regarding the price-quality balance. It earned 91 points at only $17.95 per bottle. Pick up a few and share with friends. Sidewood Estate is a premium winery in the premium Geographical Indication—aka GI—of Adelaide Hills.
It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Smart Buys’

92 ✓ Value
Sidewood Estate ‘Stablemate’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
GI Adelaide Hills, Australia $16.95 (237883) 14.6% alcohol
This single-vineyard red is matured 18 months in French oak. It displays attractive aromas—ripe black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, cocoa powder and a hint of eucalyptus. It’s silky soft on the palate carrying delicious flavours of mixed berries, including bright tangy raspberry, plus cassis, cinnamon and finishing on a pleasant minty cooling effect. Medium-full-bodied with well- integrated alcohol, polished tannins and plenty of freshness. !t’s the perfect partner to lamb burgers or marinated flank steak hot off the grill. (Louise Boutin)

It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Smart Buys’
The following 2020 Casale Del Giglio ‘Satrico’ is an inspired blend of 40% chardonnay/40% sauvignon and 20% trebbiano gialio grapes. It was fermented separately for each grape variety for 7 or 8 days then after racking it was matured in stainless steel tanks and bottled at the beginning of the following year.

92 ✓ Value
Casale Del Giglio ‘Satrico’ 2020
IGT Lazio Bianco, Italy $18.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
Piquant aromas of savoury spice, flinty minerality and lemon pastille and floral notes keep your attention focussed on the wine in your glass. It blankets the palate with a steady stream of delicious palate flavours that persist to and through the lip-smacking finish and crisp, clean and refreshing aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared Atlantic salmon or pan-seared fresh-water pickerel. This is balanced and full of tang and pizzazz from cork pop to last drop. (Vic Harradine)

It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Local Find’

It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Smart Buys’
The following 2016 Pelee Island Winery ‘Vinedressers’ Cabernet Sauvignon/Petit Verdot is primarily cabernet sauvignon with only a splash of petit verdot according to the winery’s technical sheet.

The following 2019 Ivory & Burt ‘Old Vine Zinfandel’ pays homage to two of the early settlers in Lodi—Charles Ivory and J.M. Burt. The Lodi soils are rich in minerals and well-drained along with a Mediterranean climate of warm afternoons and cool evenings that allows grapes to develop ripe fruit flavours. These fruit-forward wines have nice acid balance that characterize the quintessential Lodi style that has made and kept its sterling reputation. This is 100% sustainably grown and ages in new American oak.
This wine scored a Double Gold at the 2022 New York International Wine Competition.

It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Smart Buys’
The following 2021 William Févre – ‘Mountain Grown - Reserva Especial’ Chardonnay was sourced from 100% Chardonnay and is from the clone supplied from William Févre’s vineyard in Burgundy some 25 years ago. The vineyard yield is 7,500 kg /ha taken from the San Luis Vineyard positioned at almost 700 M above sea level in the midst of thorns and briers. This wine punches well above the price-quality balance so pick up more than one, if you can.

The following 2019 Sidewood Estate ‘Stablemate’ Cabernet Sauvignon tips well in your favour regarding the price-quality balance. It earned 91 points at only $17.95 per bottle. Pick up a few and share with friends. Sidewood Estate is a premium winery in the premium Geographical Indication—aka GI—of Adelaide Hills.
It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Smart Buys’

The following 2020 Casale Del Giglio ‘Satrico’ is an inspired blend of 40% chardonnay/40% sauvignon and 20% trebbiano gialio grapes. It was fermented separately for each grape variety for 7 or 8 days then after racking it was matured in stainless steel tanks and bottled at the beginning of the following year.
It is also Featured in the Vintages January 7, 2023 catalogue under ‘Smart Buys’

Vintages Release: January 21, 2023

The following 2019 Primus Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from a Mediterranean climate with well-defined seasons and rainfall concentrated during winter. The proximity to the Andes Mountains cools the nights and lengthens the slow ripening process and enhances the drying tannins on the palate. The wine spent 12 months in French oak barrels, 18% new. This wine tips well in your favour with its price-quality balance of 91 points at only $19.95

91 ✓ Value
Primus Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Alto Maipo, Chile $19.95 (237883) 13.5% alcohol
A flurry of aromas dazzle the senses with dark cherry/berry fruit, black plum and notions of black currant and bramble berry pie. It sports still-evolving tannin with lots of tang and plenty of pizzazz. Aerate/decant two or three hours before serving with grilled beefsteak. You could also be patient and pop corks after 2024. (Vic Harradine)

The following three wines from Ontario are slated to be in both the Henry of Pelham Winery as well as the LCBO with all sporting their recently released new vintage.
The following 2021 Henry of Pelham ‘Old Vines’ Baco Noir was sourced from Old Vines with the oldest in this wine from a 1984 planting on their highly valued estate wine vineyards with low yields of approximately 3.5 tonnes per acre with all grapes gently moved by gravity. The wine was aged in a combination of new as well as one and two year-old American barriques then partially finished in 5000L foudres for a combined 12 months.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Family Estate - Old Vines’ Baco Noir 2021
VQA Ontario $19.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
This is noticeably smoky and gamy on the nose with the gentlest of swirls that also reveal ripe dark cherry, bramble berry jelly and notions of piquant spice and grilled savoury herbs It envelops the palate with good weight, excellent balance, creamy-smooth mouthfeel and plenty of tang and pizzazz. There are palate fruit flavours galore—red raspberry and dark, juicy Bing cherry joining in with excellent tang and acidity and all melding well and persisting through the lingering finish. Pour alongside grilled lamb chops or rack of lamb. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pick up a few, if you can. (Vic Harradine)

During prohibition light airplanes would land at estates to collect whiskey and wine made in local barns. The following 2021 Speck Brother’s ‘Family Tree – The Bootlegger’ Baco Noir was sourced from grapes harvested in late September, 2021 then 20% barrel aged in 100% American oak and the other 80% aged in stainless steel tanks to create perfect balance between oak and fruit.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brother’s ‘Family Tree – The Bootlegger’ Baco Noir 2021
VQA Ontario $17.95 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
Charred campfire wood aromas abound along with mixed spices and dark cherry/berry fruit on the nose. It’s balanced on the palate between ripe fruit flavours, good tang and pizzazz, an underpinning of soft ripe tannin and a lingering finish and a dazzling aftertaste that is juicy ripe and delicious. Pour with grilled steak along with braised button mushrooms or backyard burgers or red pizza. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour with a 92 score and a $17.95 price tag. Pick up a few, if you can. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2020 Sibling Rivalry Red ‘Merlot – Cabernet Franc – Gamay’ was sourced from three prominent red grapes—merlot/cabernet franc/gamay—with all in the VQA appellation of ‘Niagara Peninsula’. It was fermented in stainless steel tanks with full maceration then matured with American oak for 8 months. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour; pick up an armful or have it delivered to your home, your office or your licensed establishment.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Sibling Rivalry Wines ‘Red - Merlot – Cabernet Franc – Gamay’ 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (237883) 13.2% alcohol
Aromas of juicy black fruit—Bing cherry, black raspberry and Damson plum—give way to a delectable splash of fabulous palate flavour reflecting the aromas and the dazzling VQA 2020 vintage. It’s balanced and bountiful with good tension and plenty of tang and pizzazz that’s juxtaposed to smooth and mellow fruit flavours mentioned above. The lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste are a pleasant sensation that will bring you back for another sip or two. Pour with grilled hot dogs or hamburgers or a vegetarian pasta dinner. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2019 Primus Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from a Mediterranean climate with well-defined seasons and rainfall concentrated during winter. The proximity to the Andes Mountains cools the nights and lengthens the slow ripening process and enhances the drying tannins on the palate. The wine spent 12 months in French oak barrels, 18% new. This wine tips well in your favour with its price-quality balance of 91 points at only $19.95

The following three wines from Ontario are slated to be in both the Henry of Pelham Winery as well as the LCBO with all sporting their recently released new vintage.
The following 2021 Henry of Pelham ‘Old Vines’ Baco Noir was sourced from Old Vines with the oldest in this wine from a 1984 planting on their highly valued estate wine vineyards with low yields of approximately 3.5 tonnes per acre with all grapes gently moved by gravity. The wine was aged in a combination of new as well as one and two year-old American barriques then partially finished in 5000L foudres for a combined 12 months.

During prohibition light airplanes would land at estates to collect whiskey and wine made in local barns. The following 2021 Speck Brother’s ‘Family Tree – The Bootlegger’ Baco Noir was sourced from grapes harvested in late September, 2021 then 20% barrel aged in 100% American oak and the other 80% aged in stainless steel tanks to create perfect balance between oak and fruit.

The following 2020 Sibling Rivalry Red ‘Merlot – Cabernet Franc – Gamay’ was sourced from three prominent red grapes—merlot/cabernet franc/gamay—with all in the VQA appellation of ‘Niagara Peninsula’. It was fermented in stainless steel tanks with full maceration then matured with American oak for 8 months. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour; pick up an armful or have it delivered to your home, your office or your licensed establishment.

New in Ontario Wineries

Order the following wines by the case for daily home or office directly online from Kacaba Vineyards with FREE shipping in Ontario on orders of six bottles or more, by phone at 1 866 522-2228 or 1 905 562-5625, or pick up a bottle or case from the winery (curbside pick-up or shop in the boutique it’s open 10 am to 5 pm seven days a week) at 3550 King Street in Vineland ON.

The following Kacaba red blend of 60% cabernet franc/40% syrah from the 2020 vintage was a dazzling vintage in virtually all VQA appellations and sub-appellations in Ontario.

93 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Premium Series-Sustainable’ Cabernet Franc/Syrah 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of sharp spice, dark cherry/berry fruit and exotic incense easily waft from the glass with two or three swirls. The palate’s treated to a gusher of flavours—bramble berry, Saskatoon berry, savoury herbs and plenty of tang and pizzazz. A delectable, affordable red that should not disappoint. It is medium weight and nicely textured with good mouthfeel, deft balance, savoury herbs and plenty to like. Pour with mushroom and beef pot pie or a cassoulet or osso buco. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2019 Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Escarpment – Premium Series’ Cabernet Franc is a wonderful wine that tips wildly in your favour with a 94 score and a moderate $33.15 price tag.

94 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Escarpment – Premium Series’ Cabernet Franc 2019
VQA Niagara Escarpment $33.15 13.0% alcohol
The slightest of swirls brings out aromas of piquant spice, fruit-laden red cherry/berry aromas juxtaposed with sprigs of grilled savoury herbs. This Bronze Medal Award winner also blankets the palate with plenty of tang and pizzazz that’s persistent with purity of ripe fruit—black juicy cherry, black currant and notions of blueberry—to and through the finish and aftertaste. This is balanced with good texture and mouthfeel and flavour galore with an underpinning of ripe tannin. It is smooth and mellow from cork pop to last drop. This is medium bodied and just plain delicious. Pour with grilled burgers, smoked pork back ribs or vegetarian pizza. (Vic Harradine)

The following Vintage-dated 2019 ‘Irresistible’ Sparkling Rosé was sourced from the same grape varieties most popular in making French Champagne – 66% chardonnay/20% pinot noir/14% pinot meunier with all hand-harvested. This was fashioned in méthode Charmat with the 2nd alcoholic fermentation made in a special stainless steel tank before being bottled and sealed with a cork and wire cage. The base for this wine was gently pressed to avoid skin contact. After settling, the grape varieties were fermented in separate batches then blended as one into stainless steel. The base then aged for 22 months in stainless then was transferred to a special Charmat tank in October 2020 for its 2nd alcoholic fermentation under pressure. After 2 months of ageing on its lees, the now sparkling wine was racked, filtered and bottled December 2021. This wine and the other Kacaba wines that follow, owe a hearty thanks and doff of the cap to winemaker Vadim Chelekhov and his marvelous winemaking team.

93 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Irresistible – Joanne’s Blend’ Sparkling Rosé 2019
VQA Ontario $30.15 12.2% alcohol
A good mousse, aka bubbles, when poured in the glass, there is also a seemingly endless steady-stream of fine-bead bubbles winding their way from the bottom of the glass to the top of the wine in the glass. This is fully flavoured on the palate with pie cherry, red currant and oodles of acidity and pizzazz intertwined with ripe black plum compote and notions of kirsch liqueur. It’s medium-plus bodied with good mouthfeel, persistent purity of fruit and good balance. The price is right, you could pick up a few and keep for friends who drop in unexpectedly. Serve as an aperitif or match with appetizers such as smoked salmon, oysters Kirkpatrick or crab cakes, (Vic Harradine)

The following 2021 Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Rebecca Rosé – Summer Series’ was sourced from gamay fruit as it has for many previous vintages. 2021 was another wonderful summer of warmth and just enough rain without serious weather disturbances. Fruit was picked in the cool early morning in mid-October and brought to the winery to cold soak for 24 hours before being gently pressed; which resulted in an attractive pink-hued rosé. It was fermented using a special commercial yeast the cold and long fermentation that followed amplified and concentrated flavours captured during press. It was also cold-stored for a lengthy time avoiding malolactic fermentation before being bottled in April 2022.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Rebecca Rosé – Summer Series’ 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $20.15 (237883) 11.7% alcohol
Very aromatic and quite attractive when poured in the glass. Aromas of apricot, blood orange and Ruby Red grapefruit abound on the nose decorated with mineral notes and exotic spice. It envelops the palate with a dry, racy surge of tang-infused pizzazz and acidity presented as passion fruit and sweet red cherry along with wisps of sweet watermelon and a mid-length lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Sip on its own or pour alongside mixed sushi platter, pan-seared scallops or rotisserie roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

In the following 2021 Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Susan’s – Summer Series’ Sauvignon Blanc, once again the excellent 2021 Vintage really shines throughout this lovely, light-on-its-feet wine. Picked at the peak of phenolic ripeness and before the rains came, the fruit for this wine underwent 24 hours of cold soaking then the wine-making team pressed and allowed the juice to settle naturally by gravity at very cold temperatures. After a cold and slow fermentation the wine was allowed to winter in stainless steel tanks achieving cold stability naturally. There was no malolactic fermentation with this wine.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Susan’s – Summer Series’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $20.15 10.5% alcohol.
Aromas of savoury herbs, mango and hints of mint jelly, Granny Smith apple and citrussy notes waft easily from the glass with the gentlest of swirls. It dazzles the palate with a laser-like streak of grapefruit, lemon curd and saline minerality that carry through the mid-length finish and aftertaste. This is clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to final drop. Pour alongside briny freshly shucked, oysters dotted with hot sauce, a pinch of horseradish and a squeeze of fresh lemon wedge. (Vic Harradine)

Fruit for the following 2021 Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Reserve – Premium Series’ Riesling was sourced from vines growing on the footsteps of the Niagara Escarpment. Taking advantage of the excellent 2021 vintage, the grapes were allowed to hang on vines into October. Grapes were harvested very early in the cool morning then quickly and gently pressed at the winery. Juice was settled at very cold temperatures for over a week prior to racking. Juice was then allowed to warm for fermentation which was conducted at low temperatures. The fermentation process was stopped allowing for residual sugar in the wine. Over the winter the wine continued to develop floral and fruit flavours. The wine was then bottled in April 2022.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Reserve – Premium Series’ Riesling 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.15 11.0% alcohol
Aromas of white flowers, green apple, and ripe honeydew melon can be coaxed from the glass with some vigorous swirls. This dazzles the palate with creamy-smooth mouthfeel and plenty of pizzazz in this off-dry, flavourful riesling. There’s a myriad of palate flavours with lemon pastille, crisp green apple, and sweet white peach to the fore. This is nicely balanced and showcases persistent purity of fruit and a lingering, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Short term and careful cellaring – up to five years – should be handsomely rewarded. Pour with the usual suspects; freshly shucked oysters, grilled calamari or spicy Asian food like pad Thai. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2 House Wine Co. wines may be purchased online at the winery—here’s a link—Henry of Pelham Winery—and delivered to your door or you will find product at your favourite/local LCBO retail store. The LCBO website has been down for some time, but you can still pick up wine from your favourite local LCBO retail store.

The following 4 wines will be available on Blue Monday—January 16, 2023—with all less than $15.00 in these inflationary times! Don’t hesitate to jump on these before they are all snapped up.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
House Wine Co. ‘White’ Riesling/Pinot Grigio
VQA Ontario $14.45 (237883) 11.5% alcohol
Exotic aromas of lemon curd and tropical fruit with wisps of minerals and the yin and yang of the crisp clean and refreshing palate flavours of exotic incense, ripe, grilled pineapple along with plenty of lemon/lime citrus tang and pizzazz will perk you up and have you looking for more. This is deftly balanced and persists with purity of fruit to and through the finish and aftertaste. Pick up a few and serve to friends and family. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
House Wine Co. ‘Red’ Baco/Cabernet Sauvignon
VQA Ontario $14.45 (237883) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of black currant and black raspberries abound on the nose juxtaposed with honeydew melon and notions of chamomile tea and campfire-smoke. The price is more than reasonable especially for a red wine with a score of 92. It matured for six months in wood. Give this a go with wood-oven pizza with all your favourite toppings or with grilled burgers. (Vic Harradine)

89 ✓ Value
Cusumano Nero d’Avola 2021
DOC Sicilia, Italy $12.90 (237883) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of piquant spice, ripe, red cherry/berry fruit and notions of cassis jump from the glass with a gentle swirl or two. It blankets the palate with excellent tang and plenty of pizzazz expressed as passionfruit and red pie cherry. It’s medium-bodied with good texture and plenty of fruit in both the finish and aftertaste—look for black bramble berry, blueberry and wild strawberry. The finish lingers, you shouldn’t, it’s a red wine scoring 89 points with a price of $12.90 a bottle – it may not hang around for long. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value
Bodega Luigi Bosca Wines ‘La Linda – Familia Arizu’ Malbec 2021
Mendoza, Argentina $13.00 (237883) 13.5% alcohol
This is dark and brooding in the glass and almost opaque. Aromas of baking spice, blueberry and dark, juicy Bing cherry replay on the palate flavours persisting to and through the finish and aftertaste. It’s balanced, textured with medium-body and an underpinning of soft ripe tannin. Pick up a few, if you’re able to and share with unexpected guests, neighbours and friends. Pour on its own or with grilled steak or wood-oven pizza with your favourite toppings. It’s smooth and mellow on the finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

For daily home, office or restaurant delivery for the following two wines may be ordered online from the winery-only. Order online from this link Malivoire Wine Company with FREE shipping on orders of $100. or more, or $20 credited next business day towards delivery outside Ontario and Québec. Phone 905-563-9253 Monday to Saturday 10 am - 4 pm for information and for locals to access curbside pickup instructions. Their retail shop is now open - 10 am - 5 pm, 7 days a week. There are guidelines due to COVID-19, best to phone or email first (the website has a space to type and is linked to their email).

The following Non-Vintage Malivoire ‘Bisous’ Sparkling Wine was sustainably farmed and fashioned from 100% handpicked, estate-grown chardonnay- 63% and pinot noir – 37% from the Moira and Mottiar sites on the VQA Beamsville Bench. 78% of the fruit was whole-cluster pressed with 2018 grapes then fermented in pre-loved, neutral—eight
years or older—French oak barrels. Importantly, it was crafted Méthode Traditionelle, aka similar to Champagne—with the 2nd fermentation taking place in the bottle(s) you purchase with the lees – aka spent yeast cells—remaining in bottle for 36 months before being disgorged in March, 2021.

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire ‘Bisous – Méthode Traditionelle - Brut’ Sparkling Wine, Multi-Vintage
VQA Beamsville Bench $34.95 12.0% alcohol
A frothy mousse aka bubbles gathers quickly when poured in a wine glass, as does the aromatic portion of the wine gather quickly with plenty of leesy notes, baking brioche, and fruit-forward aromas and flavours of Granny Smith apple, ripe pear and plenty of sharp tang expressed as passionfruit, lemon-lime, blood orange and notions of saline minerality bringing about crisp, clean and refreshing mouthfuls from cork pop to last drop. Enjoy with Sunday roast chicken and all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

The following Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Pinot Noir 2021 sourced pinot noir grapes from three Beamsville Bench sites. The blend is 56% Mottiar Vineyard/35% Moira Vineyard/10% Malivoire Estate, with all hand-harvested between September 30th and October 12th 2021. Most of the grapes were destemmed with 6% held in whole clusters then divided into two lots, one in stainless steel and the other in concrete tanks. The wines were next combined to mature nine months in French oak barrels. After blending, 654 cases were bottled in August, 2022.

Cheers from Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic

We trust everyone is keeping off the road, if possible, as the snow doesn’t seem to want to quit. Best wishes, always!

Dave Isaacs 1/7/23 Dave Isaacs 1/7/23

December 23, 2022 Newsletter

We all send best wishes to you, your family, friends and loved ones for a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday season. We also extend fervent hope and prayers for everyone to enjoy a healthy, prosperous 2023 in a world at peace.

—Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic

New in Ontario Wineries

There are 8 or so top-notch winery’s showcasing 43 wines. After reading through this, look for more in the next winecurrent newsletter in early January, 2023.

• The following five wines may be purchased online from this link - Casa-Dea Estates Winery. For a limited-time only; buy 6 bottles or more of any wine and receive FREE shipping in Ontario to your home, office or licensed restaurant.

• The following 2021 Dea’s Cuvée Sparkling Wine was made 100% with chardonnay and pinot noir grown and harvested from their estate-owned ‘Cold Creek’ vineyard. It’s deftly balanced and fruit-forward and was made in the Charmat method.

92 🇨🇦
Casa Dea ‘Dea’s Cuvée - Charmat Method – Sparkling Wine
VQA Prince Edward County $20.95 12.5% alcohol
Delightful aromas appear as it is poured and continues through the tasting experience with a gusher of ripe citrus fruit—Meyer lemon, Key lime and notions of white grapefruit—that provide wonderful balanced palate flavours that blossom out leaving a lip-smacking crisp and refreshing taste sensation on the palate and the lingering finish and aftertaste. Kudos to the Casa Dea team. Pour alongside cold-smoked salmon on a bagel slathered with cream cheese that’s dotted with dill weed and capers. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Casa Dea ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Franc was sourced from 100% Casa Dea estate vineyards of cabernet franc in Prince Edward County.

90 🇨🇦
Casa Dea Estates Winery ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Franc 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $26.95 14.0% alcohol
This opens with an exotic Asian incense aroma joined by red and black cherry/berry fruit and notions of earthy and floral notes on the nose. It envelopes the palate with flavours of red pie cherry and black currant underpinned by still-evolving tannin and a balanced smattering of ripe black cherry and notions of blueberry and sweet vanilla intertwined with grilled savoury herbs and a replay of palate flavours on the finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with red, meat-lovers pizza or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Casa-dea Estates Winery Pinot Grigio was sourced from 50% machine-harvested, estate Pinot Grigio fruit and 50% from Niagara Escarpment with both lots fermented separately in stainless steel then blended together before bottling.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Casa-dea Estates Winery Pinot Grigio 2021
VQA Ontario $19.95 (237883) 11.8% alcohol
Ethereal aromas of ripe apricot, almonds and exotic spice precede a spell-binding gusher of palate flavours with Meyer lemon, Key lime pie and hints of green apple and pineapple adorned with nerve, verve and plenty of tang and pizzazz to and through the finish and aftertaste. It’s medium-plus textured with creamy smooth mouthfeel and leaves the palate clean crisp and refreshing. Pour alongside spicy prawns cooked in a pan in butter with a side of Jasmine rice steamed in a rice cooker and infused with finely cut red and green bell pepper. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Casa-dea Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay was sourced from machine-harvested, estate vineyards with vines of 100% chardonnay from that were plus-20 years old that saw not a chip of oak. It was fermented and settled in stainless steel tank before being bottled.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Casa-dea Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Prince Edward County $18.95 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas, bordering on elegant, are easily sourced with gentle swirls—floral notes, exotic spice and delightful incense abound on the nose followed by lovely aromas of citrus—lemon and lime and ripe apricot and pear. It’s medium-bodied and nicely textured on the palate with flavours of Granny Smith apple, lemongrass and ripe peach, pear and Mirabelle plum.

• The following 2021 Casa-dea Estates Winery Melon de Bourgogne was sourced from machine-harvested estate vines in a vineyard planted some twenty years ago. It was then fermented in stainless steel and saw no oak.

93 🇨🇦
Casa-dea Estates Winery Melon de Bourgogne 2021
VQA Prince Edward County $24.95 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of green apple, minerality and floral notes precede a smooth and mellow, nicely textured stream of honeydew melon and Mirabelle plum juxtaposed to lemon curd and notions of Key lime pie. The persistent purity of fruit extends to and through the crisp and refreshing finish and mouth-watering aftertaste—in a word, yummy! Pour alongside oven-roasted chicken, freshly shucked Malpeque oysters or crab cakes. Pick up a half-dozen or so and drink now to 2025 after careful cellaring. (Vic Harradine)

• Closson Chase was an early entry into the nascent Prince Edward County winery scene in the late 1990s and recently made an almost seamless transition from a former doyen of Ontario winemakers, Deborah Paskus, to the present winemaker, Keith Tyers, highly capable with focused vision on making fine wine—especially chardonnay and pinot noir—from what nature provides.

• Order the following wines by the case for daily office, home or restaurant delivery direct from the winery either by using this link Closson Chase, phone toll-free 1-888-201-2300 email <info@clossonchase.com data-preserve-html-node="true">

or pick them up from the winery 629 Closson Road, Hillier, Ontario K0K 2J0 – it’s an easy 2 or so hour drive, or less, from the GTA or Ottawa and environs - Here’s a map. Phone ahead 343-261-6465 for complimentary curbside pick-up or local delivery. They are now open 7 days a week from 11am to 5 pm.

• The following 2021 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘The Loyalist’ Chardonnay was sourced from 100% locally grown fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan by VegeCert.

92 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘The Loyalist’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Ontario $28.00 12.5% alcohol
Lifted and alluring aromas waft easily from this gem of a delicious and affordable smooth and mellow chardonnay—floral and tropical fruit aromas followed by delicious palate flavours of pineapple, mango and ripe apricot along with citrus and mineral notes persist to and through the lingering finish and mouth-watering aftertaste that’s crisp, clean and refreshing. Pick up a few and pour alongside a Thanksgiving roast turkey with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

92 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $34.00 13.3% alcohol
Delicate, elegant aromas of vanillin, floral and notes of baking brioche and buckwheat honey can be coaxed with a number of swirls. It blankets the palate with pit fruit—Mirabelle plum and ripe apricot along with notions of ripe nectarine, It’s medium bodied with good texture and mouthfeel and dishes up both a lengthy finish and aftertaste of lemon-lime citrus and saline minerality. Pour this alongside roast fowl—chicken, turkey or duck. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard - Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir was sourced from 100% Prince Edward County fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan-friendly by VegeCert.

91 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard - Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $36.00 (145888) 12.5% alcohol
A layered and complex nose sports aromas of piquant spice, wood smoke, gamey notes and notions of exotic incense. In spite of its light purple hue it blankets the palate with ripe dark fruit flavour—pie cherry, black raspberry tang and pizzazz and is underpinned by still evolving tannin. A two-hour aeration/decant will produce a more positive imbibing experience and this will play nicely with chicken pot pie, bobotie or cassoulet. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘South Clos Vineyard’ Chardonnay was sourced entirely from the South Clos estate vineyard. The fruit was whole-cluster pressed then 100% barrel fermented in 20% new oak, 80% seasoned then underwent 100% malolactic fermentation in barrel before bottling. It is accredited and certified as vegan-friendly by VegeCert.

94 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘South Clos Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $44.00 13.3% alcohol
Saline and flinty mineral aromas are adorned with floral and sweet vanilla on the nose of this gorgeous top-line chardonnay. It surges over the palate with flavours of caramel, nutty notes and notions of poached pear and yellow pit fruit—Mirabelle plum and nectarine—wrapped in the tang and pizzazz of crisp green apple and notions of lemon curd. This is medium-plus weight and texture with creamy-smooth mouthfeel and deft balance achieved through the finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with roast turkey and roast turkey leftovers. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Closson Chase ‘Churchside-Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir 2020 was destemmed with no crushing, then cold soaked for 3-5 days. Fermented in large tonneaux. Aged in 100% French oak (20% new, 80% seasoned). It underwent full malolactic fermentation in barrel and was bottled unfiltered. It is accredited and certified as vegan-friendly by VegeCert.

94 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Churchside Vineyard-Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $44.00 12.5% alcohol
Piquant spice and crunchy red fruit show on the nose along with wood smoke. It comes up in spades with palate flavours of Montmorency cherry, pomegranate, cranberry and cassis galore along with still evolving tannin and plenty of tang and pizzazz. There’s persistent purity of fruit

• The following vintage-dated 2021 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Mosiac – Charmat Method’ Sparkling wine was sourced from 100% Chardonnay 50% cool fermented in stainless steel at 16 degrees C for 10 days, 60 days on lees, with the other 50% in pre-loved, neutral oak barrels. This vintage-dated Charmat Method, sparkling wine, is aptly named ‘Mosiac’ with a number of techniques carefully folded in together with great skill so that the finished wine is more than the sum of its parts. Bravo to winemaker Keith Tyers and his winemaking team.

93 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Mosaic - Method’ Sparkling Wine 2021
VQA Ontario $32.00 12.5% alcohol
This opens with plenty of mousse, aka bubbles on the top of the wine when poured in the wine glass. Aromas of citrus—lime, lemon and blood orange—are joined by mineral notes and notions of baking brioche, nutty notes and spent yeast cells. There’s refreshing palate flavours of lime cordial, a green Granny Smith apple and plenty of tang and pizzazz. It finishes with an addition of minerality and the aftertaste adds on a lingering crisp and clean flavour of citrus and tang. Keep a few around for yourself and a few for both expected and unexpected guests. Great sipped as a welcoming wine it will also pour well with salted nuts or potato chips or if you’re ambitious, what about hot, salted and buttered popcorn? (Vic Harradine)

• The following three Flat Rock Cellars wines are available from the winery in Ontario and select locations in Alberta and, for their now ‘iconic’ ‘Gravity’ Pinot Noir, also in Quebec. Here is a link for you to contact the winery in Niagara and see if you can source one or more of these wines for delivery to your home, office or licensed premise.—Flat Rock Cellars.

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Nadja’s Vineyard – Capstone Series’ Riesling 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $32.95 11.5% alcohol
Aromatic ambrosia leaps from the wine glass with the gentlest of swirls. Aromas of honeydew melon, mineral notes and notions of Granny Smith apple. It’s plush and creamy smooth on the palate with deft balance, plenty of tang and pizzazz and no lack of lip-smacking Key lime on the finish and a mouth-watering lemon curd on the aftertaste. After winning Decanters Best in Show award it is now both highly sought after and spread across the world in top-line restaurants. If you can pick up a few for your home and cellar; give it a go with moules et frites or tandoori chicken and Naan. In a word, this wine is delectable with plenty of charm and plenty to offer all the fortunate imbibers. (Vic Harradine)

93 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘The Rusty Shed – Capstone Series’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $34.95 13.5% alcohol
Light-medium yellow hued when poured in the glass, it dishes up a roomful of pleasing and alluring aromas with green apple, lemon pie filling and minerality expressed as flinty limestone.. It’s plush and creamy smooth on the palate with oodles of tang and plenty of pizzazz along with yellow nectarine, ripe pear, and juicy yellow Mirabelle plum. It finishes with good balance and showcases elegance and plenty to give for a further three or four years of careful cellaring in bottle. If you’re impatient give it a go now with a festive fowl with all the fixings or a prime cut of roast beef and root veggies done in the oven with Yorkshire pudding and make mushroom gravy and pour as a side. (Vic Harradine)

94 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Gravity – Capstone Series’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $39.95 13.5% alcohol
An appealing ruby red in the glass, it also shows its youth with a thin clear robe. It releases alluring aromas with the gentlest of swirls—a collage of red and black cherry/berry fruit aromas including Montmorency red cherry along with black juicy Bing cherry and nuances of wild strawberry and black bramble berry, The palate flavours replay the aromas with red and black cherry fruit and black bramble berry all delivered with creamy smooth texture and perceptible, and acceptable, tannin underpinning. There are no rough edges after a two hour aeration/decant before serving. Pour with beet borscht or a Montreal smoked meat sandwich with a side of coleslaw. (Vic Harradine)

• Order the following four wines by the bottle(s) or case(s) for daily delivery to home, office or restaurant online from this link to Henry of Pelham – There is free delivery on 12 or more bottles in Ontario. Select ‘12 Bottles+’ at check out and allow up to 10 days for delivery or, order online then pick up bottle(s) or case(s) from the winery at 1469 Pelham Rd, St. Catharines ON. Here’s a map.

• The following 2021 Henry of Pelham ‘Classic’ Pinot Noir was sourced from an excellent vintage that’s almost as dazzling as the 2020 vintage. Imagine, two in a row! This particular wine was sourced from four numbered pinot noir clones—115, 667, 777 & 375—that are sustainably-grown and accredited by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario. This wine was fermented in stainless steel tank then matured for +6 months in European oak.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Classic’ Pinot Noir 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (13904) 12.8% alcohol
An abundance of interesting aromas appear on the nose of this excellent pinot noir—with tobacco leaf, dark cherry/berry fruit juxtaposed with rosewood and exotic incense. The palate’s treated to a gusher of fruit flavours with red Montmorency pie cherry and hints of passionfruit with both contributing to the wonderful tang and racy pizzazz. It’s medium-bodied with good texture, loads of fruit flavours and good mouthfeel throughout. Give this a go with pan-seared, East coast salmon fillets adorned with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour, pick up six or more. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Gamay was sourced from Estate grown Gamay from the VQA sub-appellation of Short Hills Bench in the dazzling vintage of 2020. The grapes for this wine were harvested from 27-year-old-vines.

92 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Gamay 2020
VQA Short Hills Bench $21.95 (19903) 13.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of violets, crunchy red cherry and passionfruit precede a river of ripe black bramble berry and juicy Bing cherry on the palate and to and through the racy finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. It’s quite smooth and mellow on entry and marries well to just about anything you do on your barbecue e.g. pork back rib slathered with spicy barbecue sauce, grilled tandoori chicken, grilled skirt steak, or simple backyard burgers. (Vic Harradine)

93 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine – Carte Blanche - Estate - Blanc de Blanc’ 2016
VQA Short Hills Bench $49.95 (315200) 12.5% alcohol
This top-notch, vintage-dated sparkling wine is one of the top traditional-method, vintage-dated sparkling wines on the market, regardless of country of origin. Aromas of yeasty notes, baking brioche and flinty minerality make way for a profusion of fine-bead bubbles that endlessly wind their way to the top of your glass. This has complexity, purity of fruit, good tension, is well balanced with a painter’s palette of lively flavour—a surge of racy lemon and lime tang adorned with white nectarine, nutty and mineral notes dazzle the palate infusing the lingering finish and aftertaste. This is classy, elegant and wired for sipping on its own for two or with festive food when entertaining, e.g. roast turkey or bone-in baked ham with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Boxer’s Ghost’ Pinot Noir is slated for a Vintages Release on December 3, 2022

• It may get you a few more invitations if you bring this along as a thank you for the host at a festive dinner to which you were invited. The ‘Boxer’s Ghost’ refers to an unofficial boxing match in the 1800’s and after a day at the horse track—now the Devil’s Hollow Vyd—Bets were placed and the wrong man won. He was never seen again (alive at least…) This wine was sustainably grown and accredited as such by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario. It was fermented in stainless steel in conjunction with oak using pulse-air to manage the cap and colour. It also matured with European oak for 6+ months.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Boxer’s Ghost’ Pinot Noir 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (306221) 12.8% alcohol
Aromas of piquant spice and red fruit—strawberry and cherry—mingle with earthy notes and mixed savoury herbs. Palate flavours of pie cherry, pomegranate and hints of passionfruit persist to and through the lip-smacking finish and the crisp, clean and refreshing aftertaste. There’s good balance, smooth and mellow flavours, texture and mouthfeel. Give this a go with cedar plank barbecued salmon hot off the grill with a squeeze of lemon and dotted with butter or pan-seared in butter with a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

• The following three wines should be available both at the winery and at LCBO Retail stores.

• The following 2021 Henry of Pelham ‘Old Vines’ Baco Noir was sourced from Old Vines with the oldest in this wine from a 1984 planting on their highly valued estate wine vineyards with low yields of approximately 3.5 tonnes per acre with all grapes gently moved by gravity. The wine was aged in a combination of new as well as one and two year-old American barriques then partially finished in 5000L foudres for a combined 12 months.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Family Estate - Old Vines’ Baco Noir 2021
VQA Ontario $19.95 (459966) 13.0% alcohol
This is noticeably smoky and gamy on the nose with the gentlest of swirls that also reveal ripe dark cherry, bramble berry jelly and notions of piquant spice and grilled savoury herbs It envelops the palate with good weight, excellent balance, creamy-smooth mouthfeel and plenty of tang and pizzazz. There are palate fruit flavours galore—red raspberry and dark, juicy Bing cherry joining in with excellent tang and acidity and all melding well and persisting through the lingering finish. Pour alongside grilled lamb chops or rack of lamb. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pick up a few, if you can. (Vic Harradine)

• During prohibition light airplanes would land at estates to collect whiskey and wine made in local barns. The following 2021 Speck Brother’s ‘Family Tree – The Bootlegger’ Baco Noir was sourced from grapes harvested in late September, 2021 then 20% barrel aged in 100% American oak and the other 80% aged in stainless steel tanks to create perfect balance between oak and fruit.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brother’s ‘Family Tree – The Bootlegger’ Baco Noir 2021
VQA Ontario $17.95 (16791) 13.0% alcohol
Charred campfire wood aromas abound along with mixed spices and dark cherry/berry fruit on the nose. It’s balanced on the palate between ripe fruit flavours, good tang and pizzazz, an underpinning of soft ripe tannin and a lingering finish and a dazzling aftertaste that is juicy ripe and delicious. Pour with grilled steak along with braised button mushrooms or backyard burgers or red pizza. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour with a 92 score and a $17.95 price tag. Pick up a few, if you can. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Sibling Rivalry Red ‘Merlot – Cabernet Franc – Gamay’ was sourced from three prominent red grapes—merlot/cabernet franc/gamay—with all in the VQA appellation of ‘Niagara Peninsula’. It was fermented in stainless steel tanks with full maceration then matured with American oak for 8 months.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Sibling Rivalry Wines ‘Red - Merlot – Cabernet Franc – Gamay’ 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (126151) 13.2% alcohol
Aromas of juicy black fruit—Bing cherry, black raspberry and Damson plum—give way to a delectable splash of fabulous palate flavour reflecting the aromas and the dazzling VQA 2020 vintage. It’s balanced and bountiful with good tension and plenty of tang and pizzazz that’s juxtaposed to smooth and mellow fruit flavours mentioned above. The lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste are a pleasant sensation that will bring you back for another sip or two. Pour with grilled hot dogs or hamburgers or a vegetarian pasta dinner. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Stouck Farmstead’ Red was sourced from the Stouck family Farmstead with the Stouck family now 6th generation farmers of this land with ownership spread well over 100 years. This wine is certified sustainable by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario. The following 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Farmstead Red’ was sourced from two grape varieties with 61% merlot picked on the 16th of October and 39% cabernet sauvignon harvested on the 24th of October at the Stouck Family vineyard with an average sugar level in the unfermented grapes coming in at 22.1° Brix while the finished fermented wine came in at 0.0 g/L of fermented sugar. The two grape varieties were vinified separately then blended in a 1000 Litre oak tank and the wine aged in equal portions of American and French oak barrels with 15% new. After 16 months in oak, 500 cases were bottled. The wine is available only from the winery – either during a personal visit to the winery or order on-line and it will be delivered to your door using the following link – Malivoire Wine Company.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Lazzara’ Bianco Secco Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $17.95 (16789) 11.5% alcohol
This is as close as it gets to a refreshing, fruity and floral Prosecco, with peach, pear, melon and white flower aromas pushed out of the glass with a nice white froth. It is light and fruity on the palate with flavours of yellow apple and pear as well as yeasty and mineral notes completing the profile. This is a versatile sparkling to enjoy on its own, with potato chips or to pour for a festive brunch. (Louise Boutin)

92 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Stouck Farmstead Red’ 2020
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $26.95 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of black currant, dark plum and cassis reflect the deep ruby-red colour of this 61% merlot and 39% cabernet sauvignon red blend. On the palate it shows still-evolving tannin acting as a solid underpinning along with excellent tang and plenty of pizzazz needing a bit more time in bottle along with one or two-hours of aeration/decant. Careful cellaring for a few more months should be a welcomed smoothing out of the tannin, the acidity and addition of more fruit flavour and along with it, good balance. Pour with a medium-rare grilled beef steak from spring 2023 through 2030. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate-Grown’ Chardonnay is available at the winery either when you shop there or go online using this link Malivoire Wine Company. Or you can purchase in-store or on-line at the LCBO Vintages section as it is a Vintages Essentials wine that should be available in most LCBO stores now. The chardonnay was sourced from hand-harvested fruit from September 18th through the 22nd from 19 to 26-year-old vines with 70% from Moira Vineyard / 20% Malivoire Estate Vineyard and 10% from Mottiar Vineyard. The average sugar content of the unfermented grapes came in at 21.1° Brix, while the fermented grapes were clocked in at a low 1 g/L residual sugar. At pressing, 25% of the fruit was destemmed while the larger share remained in whole clusters. After pressing, 45% of the juice went to neutral oak barrels for primary and malolactic fermentation, while the 55% balance was vinified in stainless steel. After 10 months the two batches were blended and bottled in July, 2022.

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate-Grown’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 (573147) 12.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of rosewater, green apple, poached pear and peel marmalade meld nicely with mineral notes, citrus and notions of short-term, neutral oak barrels. A creamy-smooth river of nicely textured fruit persists to and through the balanced finish and aftertaste. Look for baked apple flavour, adorned by lemon pastille and hints of salinity. Drink now to and through 2026. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour—95 points and only $21.95—pick up an armful and serve with panko-crusted, pan-seared, pork cutlets and a variety of other delicious dishes that you favour at any time of the year. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Malivoire Wine Company Ladybug Rosé is a Vintages Essentials wine always in stock in a large number of LCBO retail stores. It’s a blend of 56% cabernet franc/36% gamay/8% pinot noir and was sourced from select vineyards and grapes grown specifically for this popular wine. Berries were destemmed crushed and sent to tank. The mixture of crushed grapes and free-run juice cold-soaked for between two and twelve hours before pressing. Cold fermentation and stabilization were completed in stainless steel before bottling in January 2022. It’s also available from the Malivoire winery. This wine is accredited by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company Ladybug Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (559088) 12.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of watermelon, wild strawberry and orange peel marmalade provide segue to a barrage of palate flavours with pie cherry and red currant juxtaposed with taffy apple and a notion of spun sugar. It finishes tangy and with oodles of pizzazz to and through the lip-smacking finish and delightfully sharp with Montmorency grapes on the aftertaste. Pour on its own or with or serve with roast chicken, a deli board or pan-seared Atlantic salmon. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Malivoire Wine Company ‘Che Bello - Charmat Method - Non-Vintage Sparkling Wine was sourced from seyval from Huebel Estate Vineyards and from riesling from Geneva Frost Road. Following primary fermentation the wine was transferred to a pressurized steel tank for secondary fermentation in the Charmat method. It underwent no malolactic fermentation. This wine is accredited by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario. It’s available at the winery and in the LCBO General List section.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Che Bello - Charmat Method’ Non-Vintage Sparkling Wine
VQA Ontario $17.95 (16858) 11.0% alcohol
Aromas of apricot, musky Casaba melon and yellow nectarine coalesce on the nose of this sparkling wine. It gathers itself on the palate with the yin and yang—aka, sweetness and tang—of sweet, ripe yellow Mirabelle plum and honeydew melon along with the yang and the tang of crab apple and notions of rhubarb. The balanced finish and mouth-watering aftertaste support these palate flavours as they pour well with poached oysters with a dash of Pernod, crab cakes or fish tacos. (Vic Harradine)

• The chardonnay was sourced from hand-harvested fruit from September 18th through the 22nd from 19 to 26-year-old vines with 70% from Moira Vineyard / 20% Malivoire Estate Vineyard and 10% from Mottiar Vineyard. The average sugar content of the unfermented grapes came in at 21.1° Brix, while the fermented grapes were clocked in at a low 1 g/L residual sugar. At pressing, 25% of the fruit was destemmed while the larger share remained in whole clusters. After pressing, 45% of the juice went to neutral oak barrels for primary and malolactic fermentation, while the 55% balance was vinified in stainless steel. After 10 months the two batches were blended and bottled in July, 2022.

• Order the following wines by the case for daily office, home or restaurant delivery direct by toll-free phone 1-888-399-1183, from the Rosehall Run Vineyards winery using this link - Rosehall Run - or pick it up from the cellar door on your next visit to the winery 1243 Greer Rd, Wellington, Ontario K0K 3L0 in Prince Edward County—it’s best to call first and make an appointment—it’s an easy approximately two-hour drive, or less, from the GTA or Ottawa via the 401 - Here’s a map. All orders of $85.00 and over receive FREE SHIPPING in Ontario.

• The following 2021 Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Indigo Method Charmat’ Sparkling Wine was sourced somewhat sparingly from Rosehall Run estate vineyards in Prince Edward County with a blend of 6.7% chardonnay musqué and 3% chardonnay plus 19.1% muscat ottonel equalling 26.3.% along with fruit sourced from their ‘vineyard away from home’ on the VQA Twenty Mile Bench in Niagara consisting of 48.6% gewürztraminer and for the first time access to the riesling with 22.5% of the overall blend and closed by the easily removed, crown cap. The artwork on the label was done by Alex Simon, a Tasting Room Associate at the winery and former Guelph U. Visual Arts student.

[92] 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Indigo’ Method Charmat - Sparkling Wine 2021
VQA Ontario $25.00 11.5% alcohol
This opens with alluring aromas of orange marmalade, honeydew melon and floral notes preceding a nicely balanced stream of palate flavours and a wonderful mousse with musk melon, lemon curd and hints of honey on the mid-palate and extending to the off-dry lip-smacking finish and crisp, mouth-watering aftertaste. It is creamy-smooth on the palate with good balance and purpose with persistent purity of fruit throughout. Pour with your favourite platter of mixed sushi or a deli-platter of sliced tomatoes, rye bread and charcouterie. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘St. Cindy – unfiltered – Estate grown and bottled Pinot Noir 2020 pays homage to Cindy Zwicker Reston, the sister of Lynn Sullivan and sister-in-law to winemaker Dan Sullivan. Cindy is one of the winery’s most ardent and faithful supporters and this fabulous vintage for pinot noir gave Lynn and Dan Sullivan a wonderful opportunity to make their feelings known to all that value family, supporters and excellent wine. All the fruit—100% Pinot Noir—is from estate vineyards.

92 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘St. Cindy – unfiltered – Estate grown and bottled – Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $79.00 13.0% alcohol
Light-ruby-red hued in the glass, it surprises with a flurry of aromas once given a couple of meaningful swirls that include beet root and earthy notes along with red and black cherry and plenty of tangy acidity that gets to and through the mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. It opens up more quickly with a one or two hour aeration/decant. Pour alongside a Montreal smoked meat sandwich or grilled Atlantic salmon on a cedar plank along with dill weed and dotted with butter. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘St. Cindy – unfiltered – Estate grown and bottled Chardonnay 2020 pays homage to Cindy Zwicker Reston, the sister of Lynn Sullivan and sister-in-law to winemaker Dan Sullivan. Cindy is one of the winery’s most ardent and faithful supporters and this excellent vintage for pinot noir gave Lynn and Dan Sullivan a wonderful opportunity to make their feelings known to all that value family, supporters and excellent wine. All the fruit—100% Chardonnay—is from estate vineyards.

92 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘St. Cindy – unfiltered – Estate grown and bottled – Chardonnay 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $74.00 13.0% alcohol
This is clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to final drop as it showcases aromas of lemon curd, white grapefruit, passionfruit, pomegranate and notions of tropical fruit—mango and pineapple—along with replays on the palate with many of the aromas. It’s textured and creamy smooth on the palate with plenty of charm and aplomb and gives way on the finish and aftertaste by showcasing persistent purity of fruit. Pour alongside crab cakes or fish tacos or moules et frites. (Vic Harradine)

• The following vintage-dated 2017 Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Ceremony ‘Blanc de Blancs’ 100% Chardonnay was Estate grown and bottled and produced ‘Méthode Traditionnelle’—Aka, handled by the Rosehall Run winemaking team here in Prince Edward County, as wine makers would in Champagne, France with the major difference the 2nd fermentation made in the bottles that you will purchase and pour from, as you would in Champagne.

93 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Ceremony ‘Blanc de Blancs’ 100% Chardonnay Sparkling Wine 2017
VQA Prince Edward County $39.00 12.0% alcohol
A profusion of bubbles appears on the first pour into the wine glass and also continues to stream with fine-bead bubbles winding their way from the bottom of the glass to the top of the liquid in your glass. Aromas of baking brioche and nutty notes are quickly joined by oodles of tang and pizzazz in the palate presenting as lemon pie filling, Key lime cordial and flinty minerality. It’s a wonderful wine to start a wonderful evening as you can sip this on its own for as long as you wish or you can use it as a welcoming wine for close friends or family. You can also pour at the dinner table with myriad of dishes. Given the quality and the price, the price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘JCR’ Pinot Noir sources some of the oldest estate-grown pinot noir fruit. This is a flagship wine for Rosehall Run Vineyards and never fails to shine and I wouldn’t think it would fail to shine in such a dazzling VQA Ontario vintage in virtually every VQA appellation.

92 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘JCR’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $45.00 13.0% alcohol
A lively fresh wine with light-ruby hues in the glass. On the palate it’s mostly red fruit with cherry, pomegranate and notions of earthy notes and minerality. The mid-palate begins to add interest with texture, persistent purity of fruit and creamy smooth mouthfuls of nicely balanced pinot noir. Give it a go with a sushi platter, a deli board or a cassoulet or smoked duck breasts. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Rosehall Run Vineyards Chardonnay Musqué is a ‘Small Lots’ venture from a single-vineyard plot of estate-grown fruit in a particularly dazzling vintage.

• Winemaker notes - Sourced from our small ‘Vina de Casa’, a one-acre plot of Chardonnay Musqué clone 809, which are the first vines you see when you arrive at the estate. Prince Edward County is benefitted annually by not getting as many rain episodes as the rest of Ontario. One of the most fruitful benefits includes being one of the driest areas for grape growing in Ontario, and our Chardonnay Musqué welcomes the partial aridity.
The wine was cold fermented in stainless steel tanks in order to preserve the perfumed orchard fruit aromas of our Chardonnay Musqué. To further preserve freshness, the Chardonnay Musqué was aged for a short period of about 4 ½ months and put into bottle in early May.

92 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards Chardonnay Musqué 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $26.00 12.0%
There are aromas of nutty nuances, exotic spices and floral notes on the nose. It dazzles the palate with a wash of balanced and bountiful flavours with blood orange, lemon pie filling and plenty of tang and pizzazz. It’s balanced with smooth flavours. It finishes lengthy with a lip-smacking finish and crisp refreshing aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared salmon fillets, grilled calamari rings or a sushi platter. (Vic Harradine)

93 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Silver Fox Block – Nedelko Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $39.00 13.0% alcohol
Sporting an alluring nose of exotic incense, red berry fruit and tobacco leaf aromas—it envelops the palate with a stunning array of complex flavours—tangy, ripe, bramble berry fruit robed in piquant spices and black currant with racy pie cherry appearing on the back palate. It’s medium-bodied with good mouthfeel and showcases dazzling fruit flavour, excellent acidity and deft balance. It’s stylish and charming while the long, balanced and bountiful finish adds to its allure. (Vic Harradine)

• Order the following wines online for home, office or licensed restaurant: delivery in Ontario is FREE on orders of $100 or more from this link - Vineland Estates Winery. The wine shop is open for Curbside Pickup 7 days a week, 11am-5pm. Purchase online from the above link or place your order at 905.562.7088 ext. 124. Restaurant is open for Takeout Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 6pm. Please order directly with the Kitchen at 905.562.7088 ext. 165. Best to check with the winery first as COVID-19 rules and regulations often change, and recently it hasn’t been the greatest news.

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet Franc has not yet been released at the winery at time of publishing.

90 ✓ Value
Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet Franc 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (594127) 12.0% alcohol
The gentlest of swirls will fill your olfactory system with elegant and charming aromas with exotic spice, bramble berry and cassis to the fore. The palate is treated to a deftly balanced, medium-full bodied, gusher of fruit flavours that exude creamy smooth mouthfeel, plenty of tang and pizzazz that blankets the lip-smacking finish and the delightful lingering and balanced aftertaste. It’s wonderful on its own and pure ambrosia when poured with your favourite grilled beef, pork or lamb. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Reserve’ Sparkling Charmat Method Chardonnay was sourced from 100% Chardonnay old-vines from their prime estate vineyards in the best vintages only, and 2020 was one of the recent best, with 2021 a close runner-up.

90 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Reserve’ Sparkling - Charmat Method – Chardonnay 2020
VQA Ontario $30.00 12.0% alcohol
This pours with a frothy mousse of fine-bead bubbles along with aromas of saline minerality and notions of grapefruit and green apple. Palate flavours of honeydew melon, lemon curd and plenty of tang and pizzazz along with persistent purity of fruit from the palate to the lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour when guests arrive and on to lighter-styled appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Reserve’ – Sparkling – Charmat Method - Pinot Meuniere sourced from old vines on one of their best and most picturesque estate vineyards. Pinot Meunier is a red grape, and there are only two über-popular red grapes in sparkling Champagne. The other red grape? Pinot Noir!

91 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Reserve’ Sparkling - Charmat Method – Pinot Meunier 2020
VQA Ontario $30.00 13.0% alcohol
Nutty notes and baking brioche aromas precede palate flavours of peel marmalade and traces of blood orange and lemon-lime. This has good texture and creamy smooth mouthfeel with excellent balance of flavours, tang and a lip-smacking finish and aftertaste and always attractive in the bottle and wine glass with its light pink hue. A lovely way to greet guests and a perfect way to begin a romantic evening for two. Pour with cocktail sandwiches and salted almonds. (Vic Harradine)

Special Feature

A ‘Trio’ of wines are included inside a classic wooden showcase all for $84.95 for that special wine-lover on your Christmas list. The three wines have all been tasted, rated and described below. You must purchase “all 3 wines and the wooden box together” from the LCBO by clicking on the link to its CSPC number (577908)

92
Castelli del Grevepesa ‘Clemente V11’ 2016
IGT Rosso di Toscana, Italy 14.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of black peppercorns, dark and juicy Bing cherry with notions of earthiness and
exotic incense precede a nicely textured and creamy-smooth palate of a balanced and bountiful river consisting of red fruit—pie cherry and plum—and black fruit—mulberry, black raspberry and © Ribena along with excellent texture and mouthfeel and plenty of tang and pizzazz to accompany the luscious, lingering finish and the mouth-watering aftertaste. Drink now to 2024 with backyard burgers, grilled gourmet sausages or grilled beef with whole button mushrooms done in butter. (Vic Harradine)

94
Castelli del Castelgreve ‘Riserva – Clemente V11’ 2018
DOCG Chianti Classico, Toscano Italy 14.0% alcohol
The grapes for this wine were sourced from the absolute heartland of the Chianti region—Chianti Classico—that is held up as the best Chianti one can purchase. This is smooth as silk on the palate with no rough edges. Palate flavours of cherry/berry fruit—black cherry, dark plum and black raspberry along with oodles of tang and pizzazz throughout. It showcases a lengthy finish and aftertaste along with a delightful splash of cassis and kirsch liqueur. Drink now and on to 2027 with your favourite pasta, osso buco or cassoulet. (Vic Harradine)

93
Castelli del Castelgreve ‘Riserva – Clemente V11’ 2019
DOCG Chianti Classico, Toscano, Italy 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of grilled savoury herbs and cherry/berry fruit are easily coaxed by gentle swirls of the glass of wine. Palate flavours of rich, luscious cherry, black plum and cassis are adorned with baking spice and hints of vanilla. It showcases its dazzling provenance and balance with a lengthy finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Pair with Asian pork egg rolls or crispy roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

• The following three wines should be available both at the winery and at LCBO Retail stores.

New in Vintages

Vintages Release: November 5, 2022

• The following 2020 Paolo Leo ‘Passo del Cardinale - Primitivo di Manduria’ was sourced from 100% primitivo fruit—a.k.a. zinfandel. After harvesting fruit in the cool early morning, it is then crushed, destemmed and cool fermented in steel vats at a controlled cool-temperature of 25 °C, before maturing for 3 months in American oak and 6 months in stainless steel. Often a 2nd harvest can be held approximately three weeks after the first was completed. After fermentation, this 2nd harvest can be added to that already fermented adding body and freshness to the finished and soon-to-be bottled wine.

91 ✓ Value
Paolo Leo ‘Passo del Cardinale - Primitivo di Manduria’ 2020
DOP Primitivo di Manduria, Italy $19.95 (496463) 14.0% alcohol
This is dark and brooding in the glass and close to being opaque. The gentlest of swirls will provide you a glorious gusher of fruit-forward aromas with red and black cherry/berry to the fore. The palate’s then treated to a deftly balanced gusher of delightful flavours of juicy black Bing cherry, ripe delectable black currant along with notions of blueberry and oodles of tang and pizzazz in the form of passionfruit, red pie cherry and red currant jelly. It’s creamy smooth on the palate with plenty of fruit flavours coming and going in the juicy finish and the mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour this gem with mushroom risotto and meat-lovers red pizza. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: November 19, 2022

• The following méthode traditionelle, vintage-dated, 2016 Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine – Carte Blanche - Estate - Blanc de Blancs ’ is named for family matriarch Catherine Smith—Henry of Pelham’s wife. It was hand-harvested, bunch-selected from 100% chardonnay, whole-cluster pressed, partially barrel- fermented, maturing on its lees more than four years in the bottle(s) you purchase before disgorgement—aka, expelling spent yeast cells from the 2nd fermentation in this bottle.
93 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine – Carte Blanche - Estate - Blanc de Blanc’ 2016
VQA Short Hills Bench $49.95 (315200) 12.5% alcohol
This top-notch, vintage-dated sparkling wine is one of the top traditional-method, vintage-dated sparkling wines on the market, regardless of country of origin. Aromas of yeasty notes, baking brioche and flinty minerality make way for a profusion of fine-bead bubbles that endlessly wind their way to the top of your glass. This has complexity, purity of fruit, good tension, is well balanced with a painter’s palette of lively flavour—a surge of racy lemon and lime tang adorned with white nectarine, nutty and mineral notes dazzle the palate infusing the lingering finish and aftertaste. This is classy, elegant and wired for sipping on its own for two or with festive food when entertaining, e.g. roast turkey or bone-in baked ham with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: December 3, 2022

• The following 2016 Jim Barry Wines ‘Single Vineyard – Eastern Ranges’ cabernet sauvignon was sourced from 100% estate vineyards at 480m above sea level in the iconic Geographical Indication of Clare Valley with the average age of vines at 19 years when harvested for this wine. Drinking well now and on to 2027 with careful cellaring. Jim Barry Wines is a member of the tightly knit group of wineries that continue to be owned and operated by descendants of the original family, Click on this link to learn more about Jim Barry Wines and this incredible group, the Australian First Families of Wine.

95 ✓ Value
Jim Barry Wines ‘Single Vineyard – Eastern Ranges’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
G.I. Clare Valley, South Australia $29.95 (26925) 14.1% alcohol
Fruit-forward aromas of ripe mulberry, black cherry and overripe damson plum jam adorned with hints of black licorice precede palate flavours that are fruit forward and replay the aromas along with excellent tang and plenty of pizzazz throughout. It showcases deft balance, delectable—pure ambrosia—flavours and persistent purity of fruit to and through the lip-smacking finish and lingering, mouth-watering aftertaste. This also has structure and a creamy-smooth mouthfeel underpinned by fine-grain, soft, ripe tannin. Give this a go with rack of lamb slathered with spicy barbecue sauce. It would also be welcomed as a gift to the host of a festive-dinner. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: December 17, 2022

• The following Castelli del Castelgreve ‘Riserva’ 2018 was the Wine of the Month in the December 17, 2022 Vintages release.

92 ✓ Value
Castelli del Castelgreve ‘Riserva’ 2018
DOCG Chianti Classico, Italy $18.95 (421388) 13.5% alcohol
A delightfully aromatic sangiovese from the historic heartland of the Chianti region dishes up piquant spice of cloves and ginger along with black currant, black raspberry and hints of mocha with the gentlest of swirls. The palate’s treated to a generous river of aroma replays as well as a balanced stream of purity of fruit flavours that persist to and through the finish and aftertaste—black cherry, black plum and ripe mulberry. There is good balance from the fruit, tang and pizzazz, and the barely noticeable soft, ripe tannin. Pour alongside pasta puttanesca, spaghetti Bolognaise or fettuccine Alfredo. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Lungarotti ‘certified organic’ Rosso was sourced from estate-grown, sagrantino grapes and is also in Vintages now.

92
Lungarotti ‘certified organic – Rosso 2020
IGT Umbria, Italy $26.95 (16573) 14.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of wood smoke, gamy notes, black licorice and black plum compote provide segue to a medium-bodied, fruit-laced river of palate flavours with red cherry and plenty of pizzazz. It’s consistent from cork pop to last drop with an added underpinning of soft, ripe tannin on the smooth and mellow finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside hearty fare—cassoulet, chilli con carne or meat-laden lasagna. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Yalumba Family Winemakers ‘Organic’ Shiraz saw no chemical fertilizers or pesticides in making this wine. It was fermented by wild yeasts appearing naturally from six vineyards that are family-owned and accredited organic—along with one vineyard that’s accredited bio-dynamic—and also on the skins of the grapes harvested for this wine. This wine is also accredited Vegan-friendly. Yalumba Family Winemakers is a member of the tightly knit group of wineries that continue to be owned and operated by descendants of the original family, Click on this link to learn more about Yalumba and this incredible group in the Australian First Families of Wine.

93
Yalumba Family Winemakers ‘Organic – Vegan-friendly’ Shiraz 2019
G.I. South Australia, Australia $17.95 (280883) 14.0% alcohol
A bright magenta in the glass, it offers up delightful aromas of grilled savoury herbs, piquant spice and cracked black peppercorns intertwined with black plum, ripe mulberry and juicy black Bing cherries. The palate’s treated to a medium-plus bodied, well-balanced stream of s creamy smooth mouthfeel, soft, ripe tannin underpinning, persistent purity of fruit-forward flavours with mulberry, black currant and juicy dark Bing cherry to the fore, with plenty of tang and pizzazz persisting to and through the lengthy, lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. A lovely drop on its own; it also plays well with grilled rack of lamb, roast chicken or pan-grilled pork cutlets with a panko crust. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Non-Vintage Boizel ‘Réserve’ Brut was sourced from the following grape varieties—30% chardonnay/55% pinot noir/15% pinot meunier. The Boizel family began their lengthy and incredibly successful journey as a Champagne producer in 1834 and they still own the winery and manage the brand and the wine with Florent Roques-Boizel as their present winemaker.

93
Boizel ‘Réserve’ Brut - Non-Vintage Champagne
Épernay, Champagne, France $64.95 (25514) 12.0% alcohol
A gorgeous mousse of tiny, fine-bead bubbles make their way to the top of the light yellow-gold liquid in the glass eventually forcing delightful aromas of floral notes, baking brioche and notions of minerality filling the air above the glass and the bubbles. On the palate it’s quite fruit-forward with lemon curd and hints of salinity adorned with green apple, poached pear and black plum all making their way to the mid-palate, finish and aftertaste. Give this a place at the table to pour with French onion soup, cassoulet or with a baked, bone-in ham with cloves decorating the outside of the ham then basted with maple syrup. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

93 ✓ Value
Val d’Oca ‘Prosecco Superiore’ Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage
DOCG Veneto, Valdobbiadene, Italy $19.95 (340570) 11.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of yellow peach, apricot and Mirabelle plum abound on the nose of this top-notch Prosecco Superiore with 85% of the grapes used to make this wine from the highest-quality glera grapes that there are, along with the other 15% made up of chardonnay and pinot noir. The palate’s treated to a profusion of bubbles when first poured in the glass and once settled down the palate flavours of citrus fruit—blood orange, lemon chiffon pie and a dollop of peel marmalade coalesce on the mid-palate before proceeding to the dry and lip-smacking good finish and aftertaste. Give this a go when it’s chilled and poured with a good friend and some tasty hors d’oeuvres. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2017 Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine – Carte Blanche - Estate - Blanc de Blanc’ Sparkling Wine was sourced from the oldest and best hand-harvested chardonnay of all of the estate chardonnay. The best juice is isolated, partially barrel-fermented then aged for 54 months on its lees – aka, spent yeast cells. This wine from Niagara was, and is, lockstep with Champagne in its winemaking procedures. The price is considerably less than Champagne on this top calibre gem earning 95 points and following the steps of Méthode Traditionnelle. Kudos to the entire winemaking team!

Upstream in Winecurrent

Vintages Release: TBD 2023

• The following Poggio Al Vento red blend was sourced from hand-harvested 70% sangiovese/20% merlot/10% canaiolo grapes that spent 6 months maturing in small French barrels after fermentation before blending and bottling. This was tasted a few months ago and has aged somewhat since that time. It may continue to improve over another few months.

91 ✓ Value

Azienda Agricola Poggio Al Vento 2019

IGT Toscano Rosso, Italy $17.95 13.5% alcohol

Aromas of mixed spice, sprigs of herbs, black currant and juicy black plum abound on the nose of this medium weight, nicely balanced Toscano Rosso at a desirable price-quality balance tipped well in your favour. It has persistent purity of fruit captured on the palate and persisting to and through the tang an pizzazz, flavourful finish and aftertaste. Well-paced and well-priced, give this a go with lasagna or spaghetti carbonara with ham or bacon. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Jardin d’Edouard ‘Château-Thébaud – Cru Clisson’ Melon de Bourgogne was sourced from 100% melon de bourgogne grapes that came from 60-year-old vines on granite soils at Chateau Thébaud. This white wine was matured for 24 months on fine lees in underground tanks subjected to fine lees stirring. Once bottled, this white wine has long ageing potential of ten or more years.

Jardin d’Edouard ‘Château-Thébaud – Cru Clisson’ Melon de Bourgogne 2019

AOC Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, Loire Valley, France $23.95 12.0% alcohol

Aromas of minerality, leesy notes a.k.a. spent yeast cells and hints of floral notes abound on the nose of this 100% melon de bourgogne. It’s crisp and refreshing on the palate with a medium-bodied, balanced and bountiful lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside seafood such as breaded and grilled calamari or bowl of mussels steamed in white wine, a shot or two of cream and decorated with chopped leeks. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Jardin d’Edouard ‘Château-Thébaud – Cru Clisson’ Melon de Bourgogne was sourced from 100% melon de bourgogne grapes that came from 60-year-old vines on granite soils at Chateau Thébaud. This white wine was matured for 48 months on fine lees in underground tanks subjected to fine lees stirring. Once bottled, this white wine has long ageing potential of ten or more years when cellared carefully.

Jardin d’Edouard ‘Cru Château-Thébaud’ Melon de Bourgogne 2018

AOC Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, Loire Valley, France $24.95 (541458) 12.5% alcohol

Aromas of lemon citrus, flinty minerality and notions of fine lees a.k.a. spent yeast cells are adorned with white flower scents, It has good depth, balance and persistent purity of fruit that persists to and through the finish and aftertaste showcasing ripe pear, a smidgeon of sweet-ish grilled pineapple and plenty of tang and pizzazz. Pour on its own or with a creamy pasta sauce with pieces of home-smoked salmon. Pick up a few and enjoy with one of your favourite dishes. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Sidewood Estate ‘Ironstone Barrels – The Tyre Fitter’ Syrah was sourced from 100% syrah that was crafted in the cool-climate Adelaide Hills, sustainably grown, hand- harvested, from an estate, single-vineyard and is certified vegan-friendly. It may seem strange that an Australian winery would choose to use syrah over shiraz, however, Adelaide Hills is considered a cool-climate appellation in Australia.

96 ✓ Value

Sidewood Estate ‘Ironstone Barrels – The Tyre Fitter’ Syrah 2021

G.I Adelaide Hills, South Australia $38.95 (CSPC #) to be determined 14.2% alcohol

Aromas of floral notes, ripe red and black cherries, pie cherries, passionfruit and Damson blue plum are easily coaxed with a gentle swirl of your glass. The flavours replay the strongest of the aromas—black juicy cherries, red Montmorency pie cherries and blue Damson plums that are both juxtaposed to the tang and pizzazz of cool-climate fruit. This is both fruit-forward as well as elegant and structured with baking spice and sweet vanilla reflecting the oak regimen of 12 months in French oak, 30% new. This showcases deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and delectable mouthfuls of dazzling syrah. Pick up a few and serve with grilled rack-of-lamb or beer-can-chicken (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, and all the best for the holiday season from Dave, Lisa, Louise, and Vic!

Dave Isaacs 1/7/23 Dave Isaacs 1/7/23

November 23, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

New in Ontario Wineries
Upstream in winecurrent.com
Vintages Limited Time Offers

Newsletter Highlights:

New in Ontario Wineries
Upstream in winecurrent.com
Vintages Limited Time Offers

New in Ontario Wineries

34 Wines and 8 Wineries from which to choose. Happy choosings!

• This non-vintage sparkling blend of chardonnay and pinot noir is bottled and matured on its lees for at least 12 months before being disgorged just before leaving the winery and is available at the LCBO, the winery and online.

91 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes Brut Méthode Traditionnelle Non Vintage
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $25.95 (224766) 12.0% alcohol
This is your classic white sparkling that doesn’t need a special occasion to enjoy. Bright and crisp on the nose with aromas of lemon rind, peach and leesy notes, it teases the tongue with nice tight bubbles and tangy flavours of Meyer lemon, green apple but also yellow pear softening the profile. It is crisp, refreshing with beautiful mineral notes and perfect for the apéro alongside sea salt potato chips, salted nuts etc. (Louise Boutin)

• All the following Château des Charmes wines are available at the winery or online only. Visit www.chateaudescharmes.com and enjoy free delivery in Ontario on orders of $99 and more.

• Just like a rosé champagne is produced, this méthode traditionnelle sparkling is a blend of mostly chardonnay with pinot noir used in the dosage. It is aged on the lees for at least 18 months before disgorgement and release.

91 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes ‘Rosé - Sparkling - Méthode Traditionnelle 2017
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $34.95 (078055) 12.5% alcohol
This attractive salmon-tinged bubbly with charming aromas of strawberry, rhubarb and brioche notes fills the palate with a creamy froth of tangy red berry flavours--strawberry, cranberry, raspberry—and then the mild earthy pinot noir touch adding beautiful complexity and body as well as versatility for pairing. Try with a well-seasoned salmon tartare or feta cheese-stuffed marinated red bell pepper bites. (Louise Boutin)

92 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes Gewürztraminer ‘St. David’s Bench’ 2021
VQA St. David’s Bench $21.95 (453472) 12.5% alcohol
Hand-harvested from 15-year-old estate vines, this aromatic white opens the door with elegant aromas of lychee, roses and ginger. It’s got a nice weight and coats the palate with piquant ginger flavours combined with pink grapefruit acidity and beautiful tropical fruit notes. This medium-bodied beauty offers the perfect balance of aromatic character and freshness and is the perfect partner to Pad Thai or caramelized Vietnamese pork bowl. (Louise Boutin)

• Riesling was one of the first grape varietals planted at Château des Charmes back in 1978. While there are no rules to use ‘old vines’ on a label, this riesling below is produced from those original vines and shows a lot of depth and character reminiscent of the European style. Either way you look at it, the vines for this wine were 18-years-old when harvested for this wine

92 🇨🇦 ✓ Value
Château des Charmes ‘Old Vines’ Riesling 2016
VQA Niagara-on-the—Lake $18.95 (277228) 12.5% alcohol
Flint and ginger aromas show off beautifully in this dry riesling along with beeswax and fennel seed notes. It coats the palate with an impression of sweet ripe pear and candied lemon rind before the citrus acidity intensifies and along with the chalky minerality reveals a dry crisp delightful finish. Pair this medium-bodied gem with gourmet sushi and sashimi or vegetable curry. (Louise Boutin)

• The following gamay noir droit is sourced from Château des Charmes very own mutant clone, discovered in their vineyard in the early 1980s. This was the first vinifera vine born in Canada and that granted them International Breeder’s Rights making them the only producer in the world allowed to grow this vine and produce a wine called Gamay Noir Droit. In order to highlight the uniqueness of the varietal, no oak is used in the winemaking process.

89 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes Gamay Noir ‘Droit’ 2020
VQA St. David’s Bench $21.95 (346742) 13.0% alcohol
Very discreet on the nose at first, it opens up with a vigorous swirl to aromas of sour cherry, forest floor and crushed gravel notes. Juicy sour cherry flavours take the lead on the palate followed with earthy character but also a bright raspberry note and peppery flair in the finish and aftertaste. This easy drinking medium-bodied red with soft tannins is very versatile at the table. Try with a charcuterie board of salmon burgers. (Louise Boutin)

• Produced from the Estate’s oldest vines and only in best vintages when all the winemaking fruit elements are optimal, this pinot matures 16 months in first use French oak barrels.

92 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes ‘Paul Bosc Estate’ Pinot Noir 2017
VQA St. David’s Bench $44.95 (332858) 13.5% alcohol
A medium garnet robe and profound aromas of sour cherry, potpourri, cinnamon and forest floor escape from the glass. Velvety textured and ample on the palate with flavours of dried cherry, bay leaf, oyster mushroom and a peppery note emerging mid-way through and trailing in the lengthy and enveloping dry finish, this medium-bodied pinot is a real treat for the senses. Pair with boeuf Bourguignon or duck confit. (Louise Boutin)

• The following four wines may be purchased online from this link - Casa-Dea Estates Winery. For a limited-time only; buy 6 bottles or more of any wine and receive FREE shipping in Ontario to your home, office or licensed restaurant.

• The following 2020 Casa Dea ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Franc was sourced from 100% Casa Dea estate vineyards of cabernet franc in Prince Edward County.

• The following 2021 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘The Loyalist’ Chardonnay was sourced from 100% locally grown fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan by VegeCert.

• The following 2020 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard - Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir was sourced from 100% Prince Edward County fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan-friendly by VegeCert.

93 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Mosaic - Charmat Method’ Sparkling Wine 2021
VQA Ontario $32.00 12.5% alcohol
This opens with plenty of mousse, aka bubbles on the top of the wine when poured in the wine glass. Aromas of citrus—lime, lemon and blood orange—are joined by mineral notes and notions of baking brioche, nutty notes and spent yeast cells. There’s refreshing palate flavours of lime cordial, a green Granny Smith apple and plenty of tang and pizzazz. It finishes with an addition of minerality and the aftertaste adds on a lingering crisp and clean flavour of citrus and tang. Keep a few around for yourself and a few for both expected and unexpected guests. Great sipped as a welcoming wine it will also pour well with salted nuts or potato chips or if you’re ambitious, what about hot, salted and buttered popcorn? (Vic Harradine)

• Order the following two wines by the bottle(s) or case(s) for daily delivery to home, office or restaurant online from this link to Henry of Pelham – There is free delivery on 12 or more bottles in Ontario. Select ‘12 Bottles+’ at check out and allow up to 10 days for delivery or, order online then pick up bottle(s) or case(s) from the winery at 1469 Pelham Rd, St. Catharines ON. Here’s a map.

• For daily home, office or restaurant delivery for the following two wines are sold at the winery only, order online from this link Malivoire Wine Company with Free shipping on orders of $99 or more, or $20 credited next business day towards delivery outside Ontario and Québec. Phone 905-563-9253 Monday to Friday 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays and noon to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday for information and for locals to access curbside pickup instructions. Their retail shop is now open - 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays, and noon to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. There are guidelines due to COVID-19 that change often, best to phone or email first (the website has a space to type and is linked to their email)

• The following 2021 Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Indigo - Method Charmat’ Sparkling Wine was sourced somewhat sparingly from Rosehall Run estate vineyards in Prince Edward County with a blend of 6.7% chardonnay musqué and 3% chardonnay plus 19.1% muscat ottonel equalling 26.3.% along with fruit sourced from their ‘vineyard away from home’ on the VQA Twenty Mile Bench in Niagara consisting of 48.6% gewürztraminer and for the first time access to the riesling with 22.5% of the overall blend and is closed by the easily removed, crown cap. The artwork on the label was done by Alex Simon, a Tasting Room Associate at the winery and former Guelph U. Visual Arts student.

92 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Indigo’ Method Charmat - Sparkling Wine 2021
VQA Ontario $25.00 11.5% alcohol
This opens with alluring aromas of orange marmalade, honeydew melon and floral notes preceding a nicely balanced stream of palate flavours and a wonderful mousse with musk melon, lemon curd and hints of honey on the mid-palate and extending to the off-dry lip-smacking finish and crisp, mouth-watering aftertaste. It is creamy-smooth on the palate with good balance and purpose with persistent purity of fruit throughout. Pour with your favourite platter of mixed sushi or a deli-platter of sliced tomatoes, rye bread and charcouterie. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Rosehall Run Vineyards Chardonnay Musqué is a ‘Small Lots’ venture from a single-vineyard plot of estate-grown fruit in a particularly dazzling vintage.
Winemaker notes - Sourced from our small ‘Vina de Casa’, a one-acre plot of Chardonnay Musqué clone 809, which are the first vines you see when you arrive at the estate. Prince Edward County is benefitted annually by not getting as many rain episodes as the rest of Ontario. One of the most fruitful benefits includes being one of the driest areas for grape growing in Ontario, and our Chardonnay Musqué welcomes the partial aridity.

• The wine was cold fermented in stainless steel tanks in order to preserve the perfumed orchard fruit aromas of our Chardonnay Musqué. To further preserve freshness, the Chardonnay Musqué was aged for a short period of about 4 ½ months and put into bottle in early May.

92 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards Chardonnay Musqué 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $26.00 12.0%
There are aromas of nutty nuances, exotic spices and floral notes on the nose. It dazzles the palate with a wash of balanced and bountiful flavours with blood orange, lemon pie filling and plenty of tang and pizzazz. It’s balanced with smooth flavours. It finishes lengthy with a lip-smacking finish and crisp, refreshing aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared salmon fillets, grilled calamari rings or a sushi platter. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet Franc has not yet been released at the winery at time of publishing.

Upstream in winecurrent.com

Vintages Release: November 5, 2022

• The following 2020 Paolo Leo ‘Passo del Cardinale - Primitivo di Manduria’ was sourced from 100% primitivo fruit—a.k.a. zinfandel. After harvesting fruit in the cool early morning, it is then crushed, destemmed and cool fermented in steel vats at a controlled cool-temperature of 25 °C, before maturing for 3 months in American oak and 6 months in stainless steel. Often a 2nd harvest can be held approximately three weeks after the first was completed. After fermentation, this 2nd harvest can be added to already fermented wine adding body and freshness to the finished and soon-to-be bottled wine.

Vintages Release: November 19, 2022

Vintages Release: December 3, 2022

95
Jim Barry Wines ‘Single Vineyard – Eastern Ranges’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
G.I. Clare Valley, South Australia $29.95 (26925) 14.1% alcohol
Fruit-forward aromas of ripe mulberry, black cherry and overripe damson plum jam adorned with hints of black licorice precede palate flavours that are fruit forward and replay the aromas along with excellent tang and plenty of pizzazz throughout. It showcases deft balance, delectable—pure ambrosia—flavours and persistent purity of fruit to and through the lip-smacking finish and lingering, mouth-watering aftertaste. This also has structure and a creamy-smooth mouthfeel underpinned by fine-grain, soft, ripe tannin. Give this a go with rack of lamb slathered with spicy barbecue sauce. It would also be welcomed as a gift to the host of a festive-dinner. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: December 17, 2022

93 ✓ Value
Yalumba Family Winemakers ‘Organic – Vegan-friendly’ Shiraz 2019
G.I. South Australia, Australia $17.95 (280883) 14.0% alcohol
A bright magenta in the glass, it offers up delightful aromas of grilled savoury herbs, piquant spice and cracked black peppercorns intertwined with black plum, ripe mulberry and juicy black Bing cherries. The palate’s treated to a medium-plus bodied, well-balanced stream of s creamy smooth mouthfeel, soft, ripe tannin underpinning, persistent purity of fruit-forward flavours with mulberry, black currant and juicy dark Bing cherry to the fore, with plenty of tang and pizzazz persisting to and through the lengthy, lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. A lovely drop on its own; it also plays well with grilled rack of lamb, roast chicken or pan-grilled pork cutlets with a panko crust. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: December 17, 2022

93
Boizel ‘Réserve’ Brut - Non-Vintage
Épernay, Champagne, France $64.95 (25514) 12.0% alcohol
A gorgeous mousse of tiny, fine-bead bubbles make their way to the top of the light yellow-gold liquid in the glass eventually forcing delightful aromas of floral notes, baking brioche and notions of minerality filling the air above the glass and the bubbles. On the palate it’s quite fruit-forward with lemon curd and hints of salinity adorned with green apple, poached pear and black plum all making their way to the mid-palate, finish and aftertaste. Give this a place at the table to pour with French onion soup, cassoulet or with a baked, bone-in ham with cloves decorating the outside of the ham then basted with maple syrup. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

• The following Non-Vintage Speck Brothers ‘Lazzara’ Bianco Secco Sparkling Wine was fashioned in the ‘Charmat method’ with the 2nd fermentation occurring in a stainless steel closed tank without malolactic conversion. It was also certified by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario as sustainable wine. Julia Lazzara was the Speck brothers’ great grandmother, with her ancestors and her husband immigrating to New York. The name of the wine and the label—her husband did fine marble work—pays homage to their Italian ancestors. This wine is available from the Winery as well as being available in LCBO retail stores.

New in Ontario Wineries

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine – Carte Blanche - Estate - Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine 2017
VQA Short Hills Bench $49.95 (315200) 12.5% alcohol
Initial aromas and mousse go hand in hand with fine-bead bubbles winding their way to the top of the pure ambrosia in your glass as it sports aromas of baking brioche, nutty notes and notions of spent yeasty notes. There’s a gusher of palate flavours led by lemon chiffon pie and hints of vanilla. It’s quite elegant with good balance, texture and plenty of yin and yang expressed as sweet and tang, first on the palate, then on the lingering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. Pour as a welcoming glass to friends and neighbours and continue on with it when the snacks and/or dinner is served. You don’t necessarily need a special occasion to serve this outstanding bottle. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Limited Time Offers

26 wines in total with differing discounts per bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022 – Happy Discounts!

White Wines

• The following 3 white wines provide a $3.00 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022.

• The following Flat Rock Cellars Riesling is a Vintages Essential wine found in most LCBO stores. It provides you an opportunity to taste premium riesling at an incredibly attractive price point. Pick up a few and drink over the next three to five years.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars Riesling
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 (43281) 10.5% alcohol
Piquant aromas of machine oil, mineral notes and citrus abound on the nose of this well paced, well-priced riesling. It envelops the palate with a tsunami wave of flavours with sharp lemon-lime acidity and tang and notions of off-dry sweet cantaloupe glazed with chalky minerality through the lengthy, balanced finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with a multitude of table partners—Thai fish cakes, a spicy Asian dish like Mou Shoo pork, a charcuterie board or an assortment of sushi. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
Stoneleigh ‘Latitude’ Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (324228) $21.95 13.0% alcohol
The fruit for this gem was sourced from the ‘Golden Mile’ in Marlborough, it’s blessed with extra warmth relayed by the stones covering the soil that allow the grapes to fully mature. Partially hand-harvested and aged six months in French oak, this delicious white offers citrus aromas along with lactic, cedar, grassy and mineral notes. Deliciously tart and crisp on the palate, this is medium bodied with flavours of grapefruit, honeydew melon and lime zest finished with beautiful minerality. Try alongside scallop ceviche for a mouth-watering pairing. (Louise Boutin)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Thirty Bench ‘Winemaker’s Blend’ Riesling
VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 (24133) 10.8% alcohol
The lifted nose of lime and piquant spice aromas is also decorated with sharp mineral notes and notions of petrol. An off-dry surge of citrus-infused flavours explode on the palate with lemon curd and lime cordial providing pizzazz along with delicious accoutrements of melon, minerality and under-ripe orchard fruit. It’s medium-weight with a bountiful, lip-smacking finish. Divine sipped on its own, it pours well with grilled or pan-seared fish, steamed mussels or breaded and skillet-fried calamari. (Vic Harradine)

• The following four white wines provide a $2.00 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022.

90 ✓ Value
Ghost Pines ‘Winemaker’s Blend’ Chardonnay
Monterey/Napa/Sonoma Counties $21.95 (308122) 13.8% alcohol
Multi-County fruit was whole-bunch pressed and fermented in stainless steel before settling and aged sur lie in French and American oak. A gorgeous array of baking spice, vanilla and orchard fruit aromas set the table for a smorgasbord of flavours—tropical fruit, sweet, ripe pear and hints of citrus and spice. It’s mid-weight and good value with generous texture, depth and complexity. It finishes balanced and mouth-watering. Pour with roast chicken, pork or veal. Pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

92 🇨🇦
Hidden Bench Estate Winery Chardonnay
VQA Beamsville Bench $31.95 (68817) 13.0% alcohol
This is an outstanding expression of certified-organic Niagara chardonnay. Pronounced aromas of red apple, white grapefruit, butterscotch and vanilla segue to a creamy-textured wash of apple, tangy citrus and spice notes on the palate. Dry, medium bodied, it’s well-balanced with a long, mouth-watering, mineral-laden finish. Delicious on its own or enjoy with almond-crusted halibut fillets. (Lisa Isabel)

88
Kendall-Jackson ‘Vintner's Reserve’ Chardonnay
California $21.95 (369686) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of butter cream and toasted oak meld with hints of tropical fruit. It is medium-to-full bodied on the palate, with a refreshing acidity. Flavours of oak and pineapple are carried through the finish, where they are joined with a hint of grapefruit. This will be a nice match for baked cod. (Dave Isaacs)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay
VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 (573147) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of baked apple, cinnamon and notions of caramel abound. It gently washes over the palate with a touch of sweetness accompanied by tangy flavours of lemon-lime and flinty minerality. This is medium-bodied with good balance and textured mouthfeel. It finishes lengthy, crisp and refreshing with hints of grapefruit pith on the aftertaste. Pour alongside skillet-seared Atlantic salmon. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wines

• The following 5 red wines provide a $3.00 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022.

88
Concha y Toro ‘Winemaker’s Lot 148’ Carmenère
Rapel Valley, Chile $19.95 (30957) 14.0% alcohol
This is good value and it’s rich, ripe and rarin’ to go now. A beautifully balanced river of juicy black Bing cherry and black plum interweave with racy pomegranate and herbal notes on the creamy- smooth palate along with mixed spice and mocha. It’s a bit funky on the nose with some bell pepper and strong herbal notes, but that melts away and you’re left with a creamy-smooth, hedonistic offering. It pours and pairs well with burgers, red pizza or lasagna. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Baco Noir is their flagship baco noir and a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO stores. This is also a wine in high demand in other countries, especially Great Britain where the agent just can’t get enough to satisfy consumer demand. If you haven’t tried it, this price is a $3 discount for a limited time only. Pick up a few or more. I know I will.

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve – Family Estate’ Baco Noir
VQA Ontario $27.95 (461699) 13.5% alcohol
Dark and brooding in the glass, it’s dark-purple and opaque. Aromas of pipe tobacco and gamy bits mingle with black cherry/berry fruit on the nose of this expressive French-American hybrid grape. It dazzles the palate with a surge of racy acidity and oodles of pizzazz expressed as racy pie cherry and hints of pomegranate adorned with © Ribena flavours of ripe, juicy black currant and wisps of black plum compote that both persist to and through the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Pick up an armful as the price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pour alongside a meaty rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

89
La Crema Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast $35.00 (719435) 13.5% alcohol
Sweet, ripe fruit is front and centre in this rich, luscious Pinot showcasing good depth and plenty of charm. Aromas of sweet vanilla, baking spice, mint and ripe black cherry unleash a medium-weight, well-textured flow of bramble berry jam and cherry clafoutie coating the palate garnished with toasty/oaky notes, a hint of milk chocolate and vanilla. Look for more ripe fruit and piquant spice on the lingering finish. (Vic Harradine)

89
Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon
DO Colchagua, Chile $19.95 (322586) 14.0% alcohol
There’s great value here. Ripe, juicy, red cherry/berry fruit, exotic spice and grilled savory herb aromas abound. It cuts a broad, complex swath across the palate with a nicely textured, medium-plus bodied flow of bramble berry and juicy black cherry mingling with sweet vanilla, baking spice, cracked black pepper and a wisps of soft, ripe tannin. The balanced finish and aftertaste is robust, lengthy and mouth-watering good. (Vic Harradine)

90
Zenato ‘Ripassa – Superiore’
DOC Superiore Ripasso, Italy $27.95 (479766) 14.0% alcohol
Leftover grape skins and seeds (pomace) from Amarone and Recioto wine are added to the crushed and fermenting grapes of this wine, with the potential of adding colour, tannin, alcohol, texture, flavour and complexity. This is medium-full bodied, overflowing with rich flavour—sweet dried currant, spiced pie cherry, fig and mocha—sporting a well-balanced long succulent aftertaste. This has the oomph and structure to pair well with grilled steak or the heartiest of stews, like osso buco. It’s a step up in price and quality; you might give it a try. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 7 red wines provide a $2.00 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022

90 ✓ Value
M. Chapoutier ‘Les Vignes de Bila-Haut’ Côtes du Roussillon-Village
AOC Côtes du Roussillon-Villages, France $16.95 (168716) 14.0% alcohol
Consistently great value, this southern Rhône blend of grenache, syrah and carignan opens with fresh red fruit and strawberry jam aromas with hints of vanilla, spice and an earthy note adding interest. Dry, medium bodied and well-structured with silky tannins and balancing acidity, spiced cherry and plum flavours generously coat the palate. The warming, lengthy finish delivers a wine well suited for braised beef short ribs. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The folks from Caymus—the iconic Charles F. Wagner is winemaker—only reveal two of the grapes that make up the following multi-blend 2014 Conundrum Red—zinfandel and petite sirah—with no mention of time in oak or the size or origin of the barrel’s oak or winemaking regimen, other than that it is oaked.

88
Conundrum Red
California $24.95 (294298) 15.2% alcohol
Dark cherry/berry aromas, charred toast and spice box leap from the almost-opaque liquid in the glass. Ripe, sweet fruit envelops the palate—black plum compote, cherry cordial and rich, blackberry jam to the fore, decorated with milk chocolate. This is full bodied, fully textured and certainly fully flavoured with a lengthy sweet-tinged, fruit-forward finish and aftertaste. Pour with grilled back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Bodega Y Viñedos Catena ‘High Mountain Vines’ Malbec is Catena Zapata’s flagship malbec wine sourced from high mountain vines planted in four estate vineyards throughout Mendoza’s premium sub-regions. It spent 12 months in French oak barrels from new to second-year and third-year use. Catena Zapata was named, ‘The World’s Most Admired Wine Brand’ in 2020 by Drinks International. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pick up a case and drink over the next ten or more years.

93 ✓ Value
Bodega Y Viñedos Catena ‘High Mountain Vines’ Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (478727) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of sweet vanilla, oaky notes and leather precede a lively gusher of spice-laden dark cherry/berry fruit with black currant, red cherry and blueberry to the fore. This showcases its high altitude vineyards, deft balance, good weight and texture and plenty of tangy acidity throughout. It also delivers in spades through the delicious and lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside grilled rare to medium-rare beefsteak. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc reflects a dazzling VQA Ontario vintage. It was harvested and optically sorted then underwent a five-day cold soak before being fermented in the winery’s controlled temperature cellar. It matured in a combination of new and used American oak barrels and completed 100% malolactic conversion. Drink now and on to 2028 with careful cellaring.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (64618) 12.5% alcohol
This is a blend of cabernet franc with just a splash of merlot. It displays a beautiful nose of red cherry, bell pepper, tobacco and a touch of pepper. This is medium-bodied with delicious flavours of red cherry, pomegranate and cola notes developing on the back palate before closing on a bright, fresh red fruit and savoury note. Pour alongside stuffed red bell peppers or gourmet red-sauce pizza. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Bodegas Julian Chivite ‘Gran Fuedo - Reserva’
DO Navarra, Spain $18.95 (479014) 13% alcohol
Here’s a red blend—tempranillo, cabernet sauvignon, merlot—delivering a delicious mouthful of flavour-packed value. Black currant, spice, minty cherry and cassis on the nose and palate, it washes over the palate in waves with a good underpinning of dusty tannin. Mid weight with a generous mouth feel, the lingering well-balanced finish is fruit-forward and refreshing. Great with grilled t-bone, ribs or burgers. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
San Felice Chianti Classico
DOCG Chianti Classico $17.95 (282996) 13.0% alcohol
This is a smooth-drinking blend—80% sangiovese, 10% colorino, 10% pugnitello—that underwent malolactic conversion. Aromas of savory herbs, pipe tobacco and piquant spice provide segue for a racy, tang-laden streak of sour cherry, cranberry and flecks of herbs and spices. Flavours replay on the dry, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Pour with pasta in tomato sauce, lasagna or meat-laden red pizza. (Vic Harradine)

89
The Black Chook Shiraz/Viognier
McLaren Vale/Padthaway, South Australia $18.95 (66738) 14.5% alcohol
This opens with aromas of dark berry fruit with hints of black plum, black licorice and floral notes before a deluge of stewed, bramble berry fruit and black plum compote blanket the palate mingling with dark chocolate, kirsch liqueur and sweet vanilla flavour. This is full bodied and creamy smooth on the palate and fully fruited on the extended finish. Pour with grilled back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following icewine provides a $2.00 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022

89 🇨🇦
Kittling Ridge Vidal Icewine
VQA Ontario $29.95 (563247) 375 mL 10.3% alcohol
Mango, melon, honey and apricot aromas dominate the nose of this über sweet, luscious icewine. A full-Monty tsunami wave of texture and flavour blankets the palate with baked apple, peach marmalade, ripe mango and wisps of lemon chiffon pie enveloping the palate with gusto. It finishes with replays, sweet and unctuous. This is dessert in a glass; serve on its own as the only course for dessert or pair with chunks of Stilton and water biscuits. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine provides a $2.50 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022

90 ✓ Value
Château Argadens
AOC Bordeaux Supérieur $19.95 (681643) 13.5% alcohol
This property was bought in 2002 and named Château Argadens to recognize the name of the family that founded the estate in the 16th century. It’s 63% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc woven together displaying aromas of black fruit, dark cocoa and sweet vanilla. Ripe red cherry and plum merge with earthy, savoury notes of cedar and dry leaves on the palate. This wine is full bodied and deftly balanced with well-integrated tannins and a lengthy finish. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following 3 wines provide a $5.00 discount from the price shown for each bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022

86
The Prisoner ‘Red Blend’
Napa Valley $54.95 (104299) 15.2% alcohol
Aromas of spice box and berry fruit precede this high-alcohol bruiser of a fruit bomb dishing up sweet, ripe jammy flavours of black currant, boysenberry and dark plum adorned with kirsch liqueur and hints of ripe tannin. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a lengthy finish and aftertaste. It’s a hedonist’s delight from start to finish and pairs well with tandoori chicken and garlic naan. (Vic Harradine)

93
Tommasi ‘Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico’
DOCG Valpolicella Classico $49.95 (356220) 15.0% alcohol
Dried raisins and wisps of figs on the nose, this shifts into high gear with a gorgeous river of deep, rich fruit flavour—black plum compote and black cherry—and hints of Ribena coating the palate infusing the lingering finish. It was crafted from hand-harvested Corvina/Corvinone/ Rondinella/Oseleta and aged in Slovenian oak barrel. It’s full bodied and well balanced with firm structure and good bones. Drink now, after a two-hour aeration/decant, and on to 2026. (Vic Harradine)

89 🇨🇦
Inniskillin Vidal Icewine
VQA Ontario $49.95 (388306) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
This vidal icewine from Niagara expresses itself without reservation starting with lifted aromas of apricot, lemon and earthy notes. It blankets the palate with a textured wash of apricot tart, lime-soaked guava and orange marmalade. Lemon zest and grilled pineapple provide semblance of balance on the finish and aftertaste. Serve well chilled on its own or paired with fruit flan or blue cheese. (Vic Harradine)

• The following two wines provide a $4 discount from the price shown below for each bottle purchased now to November 27, 2022

91
Faustino I Gran Reserva
DOCa Rioja $32.95 (976662) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of green leaf, mineral, and raspberry dominate the nose. This Gran Reserva shows its age with the red colour fading slightly towards orange. It’s medium bodied with tannins that reveal themselves early, but then gently withdraw letting flavours of red berry show through a lingering, dry, fruit-laden finish. (Dave Isaacs)

90
Bodegas Muga ‘Reserva’
DOCa Rioja $27.95 (177345) 14.0% alcohol
This is a gargantuan effort that will reward careful cellaring (cool and dark) by delivering a richly concentrated wine that will drink well now to 2027. It’s a blend—70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha and a 10% mix of Mazuelo and Graciano—that offers a lifted nose of smoky oak and dark berries. It’s richly textured and full of flavour with gobs of ripe briary berry and sweet warm (14% alcohol) cherry fruit. There’s excellent balance from moderating acidity and a grippy tannin structure. It offers good value for those with patience. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers: Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 1/7/23 Dave Isaacs 1/7/23

October 29, 2022 Newsletter

Special Feature: Dough Wines from California and a $5,000 scholarship here in Canada

The first wine collaboration of the James Beard Foundation (JBF), is renewing its scholarship collaboration with George Brown College. The $5,000 scholarship for the 2022/2023 academic year will support two students who show leadership and passion for studies in baking and the pastry arts, and wine and food and beverage management, which align with Dough's brand ethos.

Special Feature: Dough Wines from California and a $5,000 scholarship here in Canada

The first wine collaboration of the James Beard Foundation (JBF), is renewing its scholarship collaboration with George Brown College. The $5,000 scholarship for the 2022/2023 academic year will support two students who show leadership and passion for studies in baking and the pastry arts, and wine and food and beverage management, which align with Dough's brand ethos. "Our mission is to inspire everyone to "rise" to the occasion in support of restaurant recovery, equality in the kitchen and food sustainability" said Clayton Seeto, Marketing Director of Dough Wines at Distinguished Vineyards & Wine Partners "We're proud to partner with George Brown College in Toronto, Canada's leading hospitality college, to support students championing equality in the kitchen and industry, and it's our honor to help them grow their careers and lead into the future." The George Brown College Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts is set in downtown Toronto - the largest, most vibrant hospitality city in Canada, and located just steps away from the city's top restaurants, bars, hotels and event venues.

New in Vintages...Now!

• The following two 2019 Dough Wines were created and launched by Distinguished Vineyards and Winery Partners in 2020 as the first ever collaboration between a wine company and the James Beard Foundation. Dough Wines believes that positive change can rise from even the smallest of actions. The following 2019 Dough ‘Rise to the occasion’ Chardonnay is 100% hand-harvested Chardonnay chosen from premium plots in the North Coast, California.

92
Dough ‘Rise to the occasion’ Chardonnay 2019
North Coast, California $26.95 (25598) 14.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of citrus, floral notes and buckwheat honey precede glorious mouthfuls of pure ambrosia brimming with vanilla, crunchy Granny Smith apple and ripe juicy Mirabelle plum and nectarine to the fore. It showcases persistent purity of fruit to and through the mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. Pick up a few and pour with all manner of poultry, seafood or deli platter. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Dough ‘Rise to the occasion’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 was sourced from North Coast, California premium cabernet sauvignon vineyards and tested as to its food friendliness by numerous chefs before this wine was bottled, exported and distributed. Give it a go and pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

93
Dough ‘Rise to the occasion’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
North Coast, California $27.95 (20802) 14.9% alcohol
Enticing aromas of exotic spice and cassis adorned with juicy black Bing cherry, black bramble berry and hints of blueberry introduce a medium-plus bodied flavourful treat on the palate with aromatic replays of aromas on the palate with oodles of tang and pizzazz provided by flavours of pie cherry and red currant juxtaposed with riper and smoother flavours of ripe mulberry and notions of raspberry jam. It’s nicely balanced and full of lively flavours from first twist top to final delicious drop in the lengthy aftertaste. Pour with rack of lamb mopped with spicy barbecue sauce or a medium-rare, grilled skirt steak dotted with butter and sprinkled with ™ Hy’s Seasoning Salt. (Vic Harradine)

Dandurand Tasting

Louise Boutin

September 26, 2022 Shaw Center, Ottawa

by Louise Boutin

• You can order these wines from the Dandurand Wine Agency using this link or use the LCBO number in brackets as it’s a link to find the winery nearest your home with the wine you wish to purchase.

White Wines

89 ✓ Value
Finca Las Moras Pinot Grigio 2021
Argentina $11.95 (26546) 12.5 alcohol
This Italian styled white coming from Argentina has more body than many other pinot grigio. Its aromas of pear, almond and fresh fennel are very pleasant to the nose. Nice citrus acidity on the palate with more pear qualities and a mineral layer lead to a crisp and tangy finish with a mild balancing bitter note typical of the style. Enjoy with fish & chips and tartar sauce of simply sip before dinner with salty munchies. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Miguel Torres Las Mulas Sauvignon Blanc Reserva Organic 2021
Chile $15.50 (272609) 13.0% alcohol
Fresh aromas of gooseberry, lime and cut grass wake up the senses with this medium-bodied white. The palate is treated to a tangy wash of bright starfruit acidity and flavours combined with lime juice and a spike of white pepper tingling the tongue and trailing in the zesty finish. Pour alongside coconut milk and lemongrass steamed mussels or goat cheese and pear crostini. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
California Roots Chardonnay 2021
California $14.95 (25844) 13.5% alcohol
If you like your chardonnay with lots of orchard fruit freshness and just enough texture and creaminess, this one is for you. Partial malolactic fermentation and brief oak contact, followed by stainless steel maturation appears to be the right recipe for this bargain medium-bodied chard. It’s full of peach and ripe pear both on the nose and palate with just a touch of vanilla combined with the perfect dose of acidity. Did I say it costs less than $15? Pair with creamy Brie or moules marinières et frites. (Louise Boutin)

88
Tommasi Le Rosse Pinot Grigio 2021
DOC Delle Venezie, Italy $16.95 (19953) 12.0% alcohol
This light-bodied thirst quencher white with aromas of fresh pear, yellow apple and fennel opens the door to a wash of juicy honeydew melon flavour, pear and notes of lemon rind and almond. It is a crisp, uncomplicated sipper that will also pair well with mixed leafy green salad topped with Nordic shrimps. (Louise Boutin)

89 ✓ Value
Folonari Soave 2021
DOC Soave $12.95 (176461) 12.5 alcohol
Soave is a synonym of garganega, the 2nd most planted white grape in Italy used as a single varietal or in white blends mostly in Veneto. This one is medium-bodied with beautiful aromas of wild flowers, almond, pear and lemon rind. The orchard fruits flavours are shining on the palate beside a nice almond bitterness and mineral notes finishing on a tangy fresh citrus trail. This is a great value that will pair well with baked cod in lemon butter or spanakopita. (Louise Boutin)

Red Wines

89 ✓ Value
Finca Las Moras Malbec 2021
Argentina $11.95 (26547) 13.0% alcohol
Crushed mixed berry with blueberry on the lead, mingle with white mushroom aromas before offering a smooth and tangy cocktail of blueberry compote flavours along with blackberry and earthy character. This is medium-bodied with smooth texture changing to dusty fine tannins in the otherwise fruit forward delicious dry finish. Pour alongside slowly simmered pot roast with root vegetables. (Louise Boutin)

89
Miguel Torres Las Mulas Organic Merlot Reserva 2020
Chile $15.50 (407494) 14.0% alcohol
This medium-bodied, 100% merlot is a great value with its complex nose—ripe black cherry, tobacco, forest floor and licorice—and velvety texture on the palate. Red cherry, blackberry and red bell pepper flavours abound before showing a nice layer of polished tannin and a touch of mixed dry herb trailing in the dry and savoury finish. Perfect for pizza or red sauce pasta night (Louise Boutin)

89 ✓ Value
California Roots Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
California $14.95 (25843) 13.5% alcohol
This lighter-bodied than most cabernet sauvignon screams aromas of fresh raspberry compote followed with cherry and a little bit of spice. It is super juicy on the palate with focused vibrant red fruit flavours and a whisper of wood and vanilla. Easy drinking with a fresh fruity finish, this medium-bodied red is perfect for week night gourmet burgers or red bell pepper sauce pasta. (Louise Boutin)

93
Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2017
DOCG Amarone della Valpolicella Classico $49.95 (356220) 15.0% alcohol
This classic Veneto blend shows enveloping aromas of raisin, plum, baking spice and balsamic notes. The palate is treated to a full-bodied flow of dried fruits and black cherry flavours and a touch of black pepper. It is opulent and perfectly balanced with an impression of sweetness, some warmth, polished tannins and a delicious dry finish trailing notes of dry figs. Ideal to nibble on nuts and hard cheese pieces at the end of a copious meal instead of dessert. (Louise Boutin)

92
Umberto Cesari Liano 2019
IGT Rubicone $28.95 (225086) 13.5% alcohol
This beautiful blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon from the Emilia-Romagna region, matured 18 months in large French oak casks and is worth every penny. Profound ripe cassis, black cherry and licorice aromas introduce a velvety river of rich and peppery dark fruit flavours accompanied with lovely notes of vanilla and kirsch liqueur hints in the lengthy lovely dry finish. This medium-full-bodied consistent blend will shine alongside a hearty traditional lasagna or eggplant parmigiana. (Louise Boutin)

93
Marchesi de Frescobaldi ‘Castel Giocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino 2017
DOCG Brunello di Montalcino $54.95 (650432) 14.5% alcohol
This textbook Brunello never disappoints with its profound and complex bouquet of sour cherry, tobacco, cedar and potpourri. Very focused on the cherry profile, it also shows tertiary flavours—spice, roasted hazelnut, forest floor—aligned with the vintage and the garnet robe especially noticeable on the rim. This is full-bodied with fine grained tannins offering a nice grip in the lengthy finish of earthy and evolved fruit character. Aerate/decant two hours and pour alongside osso buco or lentil and root vegetable stew. (Louise Boutin)

New in Ontario Wineries

• The following three wines may be purchased online from this link - Casa-Dea Estates Winery. For a limited-time only; buy 6 bottles or more of any wine and receive FREE shipping in Ontario to your home, office or licensed restaurant.

• The following 2021 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘The Loyalist’ Chardonnay was sourced from 100% locally grown fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan by VegeCert.

• The following 2020 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard - Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir was sourced from 100% Prince Edward County fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan-friendly by VegeCert.

91 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard - Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $36.00 (145888) 12.5% alcohol

• A layered and complex nose sports aromas of piquant spice, wood smoke, gamey notes and notions of exotic incense. In spite of its light purple hue it blankets the palate with ripe dark fruit flavour—pie cherry, black raspberry tang and pizzazz and is underpinned by still evolving tannin. A two-hour aeration/decant will produce a more positive imbibing experience and this will play nicely with chicken pot pie, bobotie or cassoulet. (Vic Harradine)

• For daily home, office or restaurant delivery for the following two wines are sold at the winery, order online from this link Malivoire Wine Company with Free shipping on orders of $99 or more, or $20 credited next business day towards delivery outside Ontario and Québec. Phone 905-563-9253 Monday to Friday 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays and noon to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday for information and for locals to access curbside pickup instructions. Their retail shop is now open - 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays, and noon to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. There are guidelines due to COVID-19 that change often, best to phone or email first (the website has a space to type and is linked to their email)

• The following Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘St. Cindy – unfiltered – Estate grown and bottled Pinot Noir 2020 pays homage to Cindy Zwicker Reston, the sister of Lynn Sullivan and sister-in-law to winemaker Dan Sullivan. Cindy is one of the winery’s most ardent and faithful supporters and this fabulous vintage for pinot noir gave the Lynn and Dan Sullivan a wonderful opportunity to make their feelings known to all that value family, supporters and excellent wine. All the fruit—100% Pinot Noir—is from estate vineyards.

• The following 2021 Rosehall Run Vineyards Chardonnay Musqué is a ‘Small Lots’ venture from a single-vineyard plot of estate-grown fruit in a particularly dazzling vintage.

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet Franc has not yet been released at the winery at time of writing.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet Franc 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (594127) 12.0% alcohol
The gentlest of swirls will fill your olfactory system with elegant and charming aromas with exotic spice, bramble berry and cassis to the fore. The palate is treated to a deftly balanced, medium-full bodied, gusher of fruit flavours that exude creamy smooth mouthfeel, plenty of tang and pizzazz that blankets the lip-smacking finish and the delightful lingering and balanced aftertaste. It’s wonderful on its own and pure ambrosia when poured with your favourite grilled beef, pork or lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages: Limited Time Offers – happy hunting - 22 wines in total

White Wines

• The following 5 white wines will provide you a $2.00 discount from the price shown below on each wine for each bottle purchased from now to November 6, 2022, regardless of vintage.

87
Anselmi ‘San Vincenzo’
IGT Veneto, Italy $16.95 (948158) 12.5% alcohol
An über-savoury nose of grassy notes and sprigs of savoury herbs dressed in piquant spice provide segue to this garganega blend. The mid-weight, lightly textured stream of palate-pleasing flavour skips over the palate with flavours of lemongrass, pear and wisps of apple persisting through the mid-length finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own as a pleasant pre-dinner sipper. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars Chardonnay
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 (286278) 13.0% alcohol
Medium yellow-gold hued, this leaps from the glass with lifted aromas of baking spice, toasty notes, pineapple and caramel. It envelops the palate with a medium-plus bodied, well-textured river of ripe apple and tingling citrus acidity with oodles of nerve, verve and pizzazz expressed as white grapefruit on the back palate and aftertaste. This will be divine paired with freshly shucked Malpec oysters, prawn ceviche or pan-seared white fish under a generous squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

88
La Crema Chardonnay
Sonoma Coast $30.00 (962886) 13.5% alcohol
This is an elegant chardonnay with subtle oak aromas on the nose combined with notes of apple and minerality. It’s medium-full bodied with zesty acidity delivering green apple and citrus flavours on the palate. The finish is tangy and underlined with clean minerality. This will evolve nicely in the cellar for a few years, and can be enjoyed with shrimp parmesan pasta. (Dave Isaacs)

91 ✓ Value
Pierre Sparr Gewürztraminer
AOC Alsace, France $18.95 (373373) 13.5% alcohol
A dominant and alluring aroma of rosewater provides segue to this spice-laden generously textured gem. It dazzles the palate with piquant spice carried on a medium-plus bodied river of off-dry palate flavours—lychee nut, lemon pie filling and grapefruit zest—that cleans up nicely on the mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. This is crisp and refreshing, making it a great dance partner for quiche Lorraine, pan-seared fish or baked ham. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
Susana Balbo ‘Crios’ Torrontés
Uco Valley, Argentina $15.95 (1834) alcohol 12.5%
Here’s an authentic expression of the emblematic white grape of Argentina. Torrontés is an aromatic grape that can sometimes lead to over-the-top perfumed wines which isn’t the case here. Delicate aromas of rose, ginger, fresh apricot and almond charm the nose. Medium-light-bodied, it flows easily on the palate with excellent citrus acidity, ginger, a touch of white pepper and mild pleasant tang completing the profile. Enjoy with sashimi or Korean sauce marinated chicken. (Louise Boutin)

Red Wines

• The following 10 red wines will provide you a $2.00 discount from the price shown below on each wine for each bottle purchased from now to November 6, 2022. regardless of vintage

• The following Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores. The discounted price ($14.95) makes this ‘Riserva’ worthy of picking up a few, perhaps even a case.

90 ✓ Value
Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti
DOCG Chianti, Italy $16.95 (111641) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of cherry/berry fruit and floral notes introduce a medium-bodied, nicely textured stream of lively, tang-laden palate flavour with red currant, ripe black cherry and passionfruit. This is primarily sangiovese with a cup or two of cabernet sauvignon and merlot. It’s medium weight, nicely textured with good red fruit flavour framed with tang and underpinned by wisps of soft tannin. A wash of pie cherry and red currant jelly races over the palate persisting through the finish and adorned with wisps of tannin on the aftertaste. Best poured with pasta in a tomato-based sauce; try spaghetti Bolognese or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

89
Cathedral Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
WO Paarl, South Africa $18.95 (328567) 13.0% alcohol
Smoky, earthy and dried cherry aromatics waft from the glass of this medium-bodied red. There are a good deal of sweet, black, ripe cherry and plum flavours with hints of chocolate and tar in the involved flavour profile. All this is wrapped around perceptible tannins and oaky notes that may need some time to quiet down. Drink now with rare or medium-rare pepper steak. (Vic Harradine)

92
Columbia Crest ‘H3’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Horse Heaven Hills, Washington State $19.95 (210047) 14.0% alcohol
This is a lovely red with the price-quality balance tipped well in your favour. A subdued nose of mixed spice and dark cherry/berry fruit unleashes a delectable wash of balanced and beautiful flavours with red and black currant and juicy black Bing cherry to the fore. It’s medium bodied with generous texture and long, balanced finish showcasing delicious ripe fruit. Each sip is as good as, or better, than the previous. (Vic Harradine)

• The following is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores

91
Kim Crawford Pinot Noir
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $23.95 (626390) 13.0% alcohol
A portion of this elegant and easy-drinking pinot noir has been aged in French oak barrels, 10% new. This has resulted in a complex nose with aromas of musty wood, dried red fruit, fresh cherries and spice. It’s medium bodied with good acidity and tannins that start gentle then slowly grow, but never become overwhelming. Red berry flavours linger nicely on the finish. It can be cellared another three years and enjoyed with a beef and mushroom stew. (Dave Isaacs)

91
La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina $16.95 (292110) alcohol 14.0%
Twelve months of maturation in French and American oak barrels is expressed with mixed spice and chocolate but also roasted plum and mushroom aromas in this medium-full bodied red from an excellent vintage. Initially velvety on the palate with spicy dark fruit and cola flavours, it morphs into an enjoyable robust and peppery juice with grippy tannins and a bright note of dry cherry extending in the finish and delicious aftertaste. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside lamb kofta or stuffed Portobello mushroom. (Louise Boutin)

• The following Bodegas Lan Crianza is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO stores. It’s also an inexpensive way to taste what will be a $30 or $40 wine when released from the winery some five or more years from now as a ‘Reserva’ or a ‘Gran Reserva’ wine.

92 ✓ Value
Bodegas Lan Crianza
DOCa Rioja, Spain $17.95 (166538) 13.5% alcohol
Sexy aromas of exotic spice and incense interweave with soft, ripe, dark berry fruit and flecks of mocha. It bathes the palate with a rich and balanced wash of black raspberry and dark cherry flavours underpinned by ripe chalky tannin and framed by excellent acidity and purity of fruit. It’s medium-plus bodied with deft balance and a lengthy finish. Pour on its own, after a two-hour aeration/decant or alongside prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)

90
Le Volte dell’Ornellaia
IGT Toscana, Italy $29.95 (964221) 14.0% alcohol
A highly anticipated, perennial favourite, this blend of 67% merlot, 20% cabernet sauvignon, 13% sangiovese, is ready to drink, fair value and shouldn’t disappoint. Dark berry fruit, piquant spice and mint aromas abound before dishing up a focused line of crunchy pie cherry and tart passionfruit scurrying across the palate adorned with notions of mixed spice and mocha, This is medium bodied with silky-smooth texture and soft ripe tannin. Drink now after a three-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

89
Louis M. Martini Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon
Sonoma County $24.95 (292151) 14.0% alcohol
This approachable, versatile red offers intense aromas of blackberry, cassis, roasted red pepper and cedar. Dry, medium-full bodied, with perceptible tannin, the palate is supple and juicy with ripe dark plums, blackberry coulis, tobacco and a hint of vanilla. Pour alongside peppercorn steak. (Lisa Isabelle)

88
McManis Zinfandel
Lodi $21.95 (256735) 14.0% alcohol
There’s a lively nose of primary fruit—cherry, blackberry blueberry—mingling with oaky aromas. Rich, flavours of kirsch liqueur and dark berry fruit interlaced with mixed spice and a supple tannin structure bathe the palate. This is medium-full bodied and satin textured with a lengthy balanced finish. Aerate/decant three hours pouring with well-seasoned, grilled medium-rare, beefsteak. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value
Viña Perez Cruz ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon
DO Maipo Alto, Chile $15.95 (694208) 13.5% alcohol
The cool, elevated Maipo Alto region is the sweet spot for premiere Chilean Cab. There’s a 3% splash of Syrah and 1% ripple of Carmenère in this mid-weight, beautifully textured, crowd-pleasing gem. Aromas of rich black fruit, sweet vanilla and toasty notes herald a river of black cherry, juicy and ripe mulberry on the palate infusing the long finish. It sports good depth, complexity, oodles of charm and exceptional-value. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Beringer cabernet sauvignon receives a discount off the price shown below of $5.00 per bottle purchased from now to November 6, 2022, regardless of vintage.

91
Beringer ‘Knights Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Knights Valley, California $46.95 (352583) 14.8% alcohol
This blend of predominantly cabernet sauvignon with a splash of cabernet franc, merlot and petit verdot, matured 16 months in French oak, 30% new. Dark cherry, plum compote, chipotle, baking spice and violet aromas showcase the complex nose. Silky soft on palate entry with flavours of ripe black cherry, clove and vanilla, it shows a firmer profile mid palate with tight tannin and flavours of cocoa powder, freshly cracked black peppercorn and a wisp of red plum acidity through the finish and aftertaste. This is full-bodied with cellaring potential; enjoy now to 2024 with juicy rare prime rib after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 3 red wines will provide you a $3.00 discount from the price shown below on each wine for each bottle purchased from now to November 6, 2022, regardless of vintage.

91
Rodney Strong ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California $29.95 (954834) 14.5% alcohol
This is a premium pinot from the fabulous cool-climate appellation of Russian River Valley. It’s part California with ripe fruit and oodles of it, and part Burgundy with good structure and lip-smacking acidity for excellent balance. There’s red cherry with wisps of red currant and mixed spice on the nose and palate joined by ripe black berry and notions of beetroot on the finish and lingering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

89
Porcupine Ridge Syrah
WO Swartland, South Africa $16.95 (595280) 14.0% alcohol
Balanced and brimming with beautiful fruit, this has structure, a lingering aftertaste and oodles of charm—a $13.95 red (includes discount) tasting $20 and more. Red berry fruit, floral notes and mineral on the nose, this bursts on the palate with a balanced, persistent wash of briary berry and juicy black Bing cherry adorned by mixed spice. It’s medium-full weight with lovely mouth feel and a mouth-watering lively finish—each sip’s better than the previous. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Trius red blend—cabernet franc/cabernet sauvignon/merlot—was matured 12 months in French and American oak.

87 🇨🇦
Trius Red
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (303800) 13.6% alcohol
Aromas of ripe cherry/berry fruit, herbs and spice abound. A medium-full bodied, nicely textured flow of red cherry, bramble berry and savory herbs blanket the palate tightly robed in the still-evolving grip of perceptible tannin. Aerate/decant for three hours pouring with rare-grilled, well-seasoned striploin. (Vic Harradine)

• Earn Aeroplan Bonus Points on the following 3 wines from now to November 5, 2022

• The following wine will earn you 70 Aeroplan Bonus Points for each bottle purchased now to November 5, 2022

• The following Luigi Bosca Malbec was sourced from estate vineyards with vines 35-years-old at an altitude of 900 to 1100 metres above sea level located in the prestigious wine areas of Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco, Mendoza. Fruit was hand harvested with careful selection of clusters and destemming. It was cold macerated at 8 °C then fermented in stainless steel tanks at 28 °C with commercial yeasts. The wine was then transferred to French oak barrels where it matured for 12 months before a light fining and bottling. It’s also a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail wine stores.

92 ✓ Value
Luigi Bosca Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina (452672) $18.95 14.5% alcohol
The nose is laden with red currant and dark cherry mingling with sweet tobacco and a dusty mineral note. Rich, ripe fruit flavours coat the palate while mouth-watering freshness and pleasantly chewy tannins create balance. Dry, medium-full bodied, dark fruit and spice flavours linger on the warm, lengthy finish. This would pair well with grilled lamb or Portobello mushroom burgers. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following wine will earn you 80 Aeroplan Bonus Points for each bottle purchased now to November 5, 2022

• The following wine from Rocca delle Macie is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores.

• The ‘Classico’ on the wine label in the following Rocca delle Macie Chianti Classico below alerts you this wine is from the heartland and original homeland of Chianti with ‘Chianti Classico’ considered the premium growing and winemaking sub-zone of the seven sub-zones in the now, quite large Chianti region in Tuscany.

90 ✓ Value
Rocca delle Macie ‘Famiglia Zingarelli’ Chianti Classico
DOCG Chianti Classico, Italy $18.95 (741769) 13.5% alcohol
Cedar, floral notes and mixed field berry fruit aromas precede a racy line of red currant and pie cherry palate flavours adorned with savory herbs and a lick of red licorice and hints of mocha. It’s medium-plus bodied with good mouthfeel and a lengthy dry, mouth-watering finish. Give this a go with pasta Bolognese or meat-laden lasagna. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will earn you 100 Aeroplan Bonus Points for each bottle purchased now to November 5, 2022

93 ✓ Value
Terrazas de los Andes ‘High Altitude Vineyards – Reserva’ Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (29280) 14.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of exotic spice, peppery notes and sandalwood are juxtaposed with black licorice and dark purple plum. It blossoms with a glorious river of delectable palate flavours—bountiful, bombastic and chockful of pizzazz. Ripe juicy black Bing cherry mingles with black raspberry and black plum compote along with tang-infused passionfruit and cranberry jelly. This is medium-plus bodied with good balance, a soft tannin underpinning, touches of elegance and a crisp refreshing finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with a grilled medium-rare, skirt steak. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: November 19, 2022

• The following 4 wines are slated for a November 19, 2022 Vintages Release

• The following 2019 Primus ‘Organic Wine’ Carménère from Chile sourced from a good vintage from healthy vines and wine certified organic by Eco Cert, and accredited as vegan-friendly.
87
Primus ‘Organic Wine’ Carménère 2019
D.O. Apalta, Colchagua, Chile $19.95 (439356) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of grilled green savoury herbs and notes of forest-floor earthy bits dominate the nose. Strong-flavours blanket the palate with tang-laden green savoury herbs the most prominent and along with still-evolving tannin and plenty of tang and pizzazz throughout. Aerate/decant for three hours before serving. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Gérard Bertrand ‘Source of Joy’ Rosé was sourced from three grape varieties manually harvested early in the morning in the appellation of AOP Languedoc, France—grenache noir/syrah/cinsault—with each variety kept separate and harvested at each of their own optimum time of ripeness. This Rosé was made using the saignée method of rosé winemaking that involves “bleeding” off a portion of red wine juice after it's been in contact with the skins and seeds. The alcoholic fermentation took place under controlled temperatures in order to showcase the aromas. A portion of the wines has been matured in oak barrels. To keep this wine fresh with natural acidity, malolactic fermentation was not allowed. The wine is accredited as vegan-friendly and certified organic. The ‘Source of Joy’ refers to the ‘fountain of youth’ with no ironclad guarantee that there is one.

92
Gérard Bertrand ‘Source of Joy’ Rosé 2021
AOP Languedoc, France $24.95 (25787) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of cherry/berry fruit mingle with spice and mineral notes on the nose that precede a gusher of crisp, refreshing palate flavours with red currant and ruby red grapefruit juxtaposed with notions of watermelon and orange marmalade. This is nicely balanced with tang and pizzazz that persist through the finish and aftertaste. It’s clean and lip-smacking good on the finish and mouth-watering on the aftertaste. Pick up a few and serve chilled; this can be accomplished by removing from the kitchen frig 15 minutes before opening and pouring on its own or with seafood, sushi or a charcouterie board. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Best’s Wines ‘Bin No 1’ Shiraz won the prestigious ‘Trophy for Best Shiraz’ at the 2021, 40th Victorian Wine Show.

93
Best’s Wines ‘Bin No 1’ Shiraz 2019
Great Western, Victoria, Australia $21.95 (222323) 14.5% alcohol
Delicate aromas of cherry/berry fruit and mint can be coaxed from the glass. It delivers in spades on the palate with a river of sapid and smooth flavours with ripe mulberry, black raspberry and notions of cassis that display on entry and continue through to the lingering and balanced finish and aftertaste. There’s a sure fire match with grilled beef steak or grilled pork back ribs. The quality-price balance is tipped well in your favour with a 93 point score and a $21.95 price tag. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Claymore Wines ‘You’ll never walk alone’ wine is a blend of grenache/shiraz/mataro. Mataro is also known as mourvèdre and monastrell. The price-quality balance tips in your favour, pick up a few.

93 ✓ Value
Claymore Wines ‘You’ll never walk alone’ 2018
Clare Valley, Australia $19.95 (409086) 14.7% alcohol
Alluring aromas of blueberry, ripe mulberry and juicy black cherry dominate the nose adorned with black licorice and exotic spice and incense. The wine reveals itself on the gusher of palate flavours—black bramble berry, dark Bing cherry and notions of Ribena—and are persistent through the smooth, mellow, lingering and nicely balanced finish and aftertaste. Pour with a grilled rack of Australian lamb slathered with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Boxer’s Ghost’ Pinot Noir is slated for a Vintages Release on December 3, 2022

Vintages Release TBD, 2022

• The following 2020 ‘3 - Rings Shiraz’ is a perennial favourite for Aussie shiraz lovers and there are plenty of reasons why it’s so popular. This is not your usual garden-variety favourite that tastes similar each vintage. In fact the opposite as the goal of this winery is to work with what nature provides and it provides differences in weather as far as temperatures, and also rainfall and winds are concerned. The fruit may have enjoyed a perfect season in 2020 as we did here in VQA Ontario appellations. This is not a fruit bomb as they harvest the same estate-grown fruit each year, although the alcohol easily reached 14.9% indicating they harvested with a high Brix level as the grapes reached close to perfect ripeness. They also kept yields low at 2.02 tonnes per acre.

93 ✓ Value
Australian Wine Company 3-ring Shiraz 2020
Barossa Valley, Australia $19.95 (15495) 14.9% alcohol
Alluring aromas of exotic incense, ripe bramble berry fruit—black raspberry and black currant—are replayed on the palate while juxtaposed with lip-smacking tang and plenty of pizzazz to and through the mouth-watering aftertaste soon joined by grilled savoury herbs and piquant spices. This showcases persistent purity of fruit underpinned by ripe, fine-grained tannin that meld and balance perfectly with ripe fruit and a laser-like line of tang and pizzazz. This wine has good structure, deft balance and a delicious palate and follow through. Give it a go with rack of lamb or osso buco. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour pick up an armful. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Iris Vineyards Pinot Noir was sourced from 100% Pinot Noir from many of the premium vineyards in the Willamette Valley. It’s pronounced—will-am-it—dammit. This particular tasty treat spent some time in 100% French oak with only 10% new.

91
Iris Vineyards Pinot Noir 2021
AVA Willamette Valley, Oregon, U.S.A. $29.95 13.7% alcohol
Fresh and juicy aromas waft easily from the gentlest of swirls. This wine was carefully aged after it was gently destemmed into stainless steel vats and 1.25 ton open-top fermenters. The palate picks up all the hard work and many issues that were handled with great care and wine wisdom. Palate-flavours are a gusher of ripe fruit—black Bing cherry, bramble berry and hints of mocha mingling with ripe fruit underpinned by soft ripe tannin that reflect the careful handling and excellent decisions in the fermentation and maturation of this tasty, deftly balanced red wine that also showcases persistent purity of fruit with a lengthy and luscious finish and aftertaste laced with tang and pizzazz. Pour alongside cedar-planked salmon on the barbecue, backyard burgers or gourmet sausage. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Carmin ‘Reguengos – Seleção - Reserva’ is an inspired red blend of 40% alicante bouschet/20% aragonês/20% trincadeira/20% syrah. The grapes are rushed to the winery after harvest and immediately destemmed and crushed. Select yeast strains are chosen for the fermentation at a controlled temperature of 28 °C. The fermentation and maceration are both completed in a 15-day period. The wine was partially aged in vats for 12 months with the balance matured for 12 months in French and American oak barrels also for 12 months.

91 ✓ Value
Carmin ‘Reguengos – Seleção - Reserva’ 2020
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $16.95 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of black currant, ripe mulberry and a notion of blueberry open up this wine, hinting at the pleasant imbibing experience to follow. It’s medium-plus bodied with creamy-smooth mouthfeel and plenty to like on the palate as it’s food friendly and raring to go. Palate-flavours of black raspberry, cherry clafoutie and espresso roast adorned with grilled savoury herbs are to the fore. Give this a go with lamb tagine, cassoulet or prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Carmim ‘Reguengos – Old Vines’ 2020 is an interesting red blend of 40% alicante bouschet/30% trincadeira/30% aragonez from vines at harvest that were 35 years and older. The grapes for this wine were matured for 9 months in French and American oak barrels.

91 ✓ Value
Carmim ‘Real Grei – Reguengos – Old Vines’ 2020
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $14.95 14.5% alcohol
Exotic incense mingles with piquant spice and fresh red cherry and red currant jelly on the nose. The palate’s treated to a smooth and mellow wash of blood orange, passionfruit and ripe mulberry mingling with black currant and ripe dark cherry. This is well balanced and brimming with flavour that persists to and through the finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with red pizza, burgers or pasta in tomato sauce with a side of medium-spiced chorizo sausage. The price-quality ratio tips well in your favour; pick up a few at this price. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Carmim ‘Olaria – Reserva’ was sourced from a red blend of 50% alicante bouschet/30% syrah/20% trincadeira. The grapes are rushed to the winery after harvest and immediately destemmed and crushed. Select yeast strains are chosen for the fermentation at a controlled temperature of 28 °C. The fermentation and maceration are both completed in a 15-day period. The wine matured for 12 months in French and American oak barrels.

90 ✓ Value
Carmim ‘Olaria - Reserva’ 2020
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $15.95 14.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of ripe juicy cherry/berry fruit, sweet vanilla and mocha are soon joined by palate flavours of © Ribena, juicy-sweet, ripe Bing cherry, notions of baking spice that melds together like an iron fist in a velvet glove. There’s an abundance of tang and plenty of pizzazz from cork pop to last drop with a lingering mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste that’s intertwined with the ripe flavours from the palate. It’s drinking well now and will be even better three or four years from now with careful cellaring. Pour on its own or with pastitsio, lasagna or cured or semi-cured cheese. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, from Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 1/7/23 Dave Isaacs 1/7/23

October 4, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

Argentina – Limited Time Offers – October 9 to November 8, 2022 (8 wines)
New in Ontario Wineries (15 wines)
Limited Time Offers (29 wines)
52 wines in total

Newsletter Highlights:

Argentina – Limited Time Offers – October 9 to November 8, 2022 (8 wines)
New in Ontario Wineries (15 wines)
Limited Time Offers (29 wines)
52 wines in total

Wines of Argentina

Louise Boutin

by Louise Boutin

The following 8 wines will be on display in a special merchandising feature at 69 LCBO stores from Sunday Oct 9th to Sunday Nov. 5th and can only be purchased via LCBO.com. Each wine review contains a link—see below with number in brackets being the link you click on to the LCBO site so you can see which of their retail stores close by you have each particular wine. Louise has researched, tasted, reviewed and scored all eight wines.

90 ✓ Value
Susana Balbo Crios Torrontés 2021
Uco Valley, Argentina $11.95 (1834) alcohol 12.5%
Price includes the $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased
Here’s an authentic expression of the emblematic white grape of Argentina. Torrontés is an aromatic grape that can sometimes lead to over-the-top perfumed wines which isn’t the case here. Delicate aromas of rose, ginger, fresh apricot and almond charm the nose. Medium-light-bodied, it flows easily on the palate with excellent citrus acidity, ginger, a touch of white pepper and mild pleasant tang completing the profile. Enjoy with sashimi or Korean sauce marinated chicken. (Louise Boutin)

88
Lurton Piedra Negra Alta Coleccion Pinot Grigio Organic 2021
Uco Valley, Argentina $15.80 (556746) alcohol 12.0%
Receive 60 bonus Aeroplan points for each bottle purchased
An unusual mix of green bean, pear and lemon rind aromas open the door to a light-bodied wash of tangy flavours—lime, lemon zest, star fruit—a mild pithy citrus note and minerality in the dry final. Enjoy with salted nuts or crispy fried calamari at the apero. (Louise Boutin)

88 ✓ Value
Domaine Bousquet Organic Malbec 2021
Tupungato, Uco Valley, Argentina $13.50 (160952) alcohol 14.0%
Price includes the $1.50 discount on each bottle purchased
Muted at first, this organic 100% malbec shows aromas of boysenberry and dark plum mixed with earthy notes once vigorously swirled. Round and soft on the palate with dark plum and tangy raspberry flavours, it continues mid-palate with grippy tannin and intense peppery notes trailing in the finish with a slight herbaceous note in the aftertaste. Enjoy with well-seasoned lamb burgers or spaghetti and meatballs. (Louise Boutin)

89 ✓ Value
Vida Organica Malbec 2021
Mendoza, Argentina $9.00 (17753) 13.0% alcohol
Price includes the $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased
This malbec is from the largest organic certified producer in Argentina. It displays beautiful aromas of plum compote and blueberry alongside orange zest freshness. Bright and juicy on the palate with flavours of plum, raspberry, bay leaf and a touch pepper, it goes down nicely with just enough tannin structure and great acidity to pair with a large selection of dishes. Try with stuffed bell pepper in tomato sauce or a simple margherita pizza. (Louise Boutin)

91 ✓ Value
Luigi Bosca Malbec 2020
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (452672) alcohol 14.5%
Receive 70 bonus Aeroplan points for each bottle purchased
A profound bouquet of ripe dark plum, blueberry, mocha, cinnamon and forest floor introduce a juicy wash of ripe mixed berry dusted with black pepper all wrapped in polished tannin and leaving a delicious and warm suggestion of tangy blueberry compote in the end. This medium-full-bodied, hand-harvested, 100% malbec, matured 12 months in new oak barrels never disappoints. Pair with duck confit or Toulouse sausages over a bed of polenta and root vegetables. (Louise Boutin)

The Alaris collection is Trapiche’s line of fresh and vibrant wines made from hand-harvested grapes grown at 2000ft (600m) of altitude and vinified without oak contact. They are meant to be drunk young and this malbec below is a great example of the style.

90 ✓ Value
Trapiche Vineyards ‘Alaris’ Malbec 2021
Mendoza, Argentina $11.45 (501551) alcohol 12.5%
Price includes the $1.50 discount on each bottle purchased
Red plum, tart cherry and black tea aromas rise-up from the glass of this 100% high altitude malbec. On the palate, the first sip surprises with its softness and delicious crunchy red fruit acidity, followed by blackberry flavours and a hint of cinnamon adding a bit of warmth to the dry savoury finish. There’s excellent value in this easy drinking medium-bodied young red and it will be perfect for a red sauce pasta or mild Italian sausage with Dijon mustard on a brioche bun. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Trapiche Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Mendoza, Argentina $13.00 (235671) alcohol 12.5%
60 bonus Aeroplan points for each bottle purchased
This single varietal red displays aromas of dark cherry, black currant, forest floor and a mild gamey note in the backdrop. It fills the palate with a silky soft and juicy flow of flavours aligned with the aromas before showing a nice layer of polished tannins and piquant peppery note leading to a slightly astringent but pleasant savoury finish. Pair this bargain gem with a juicy gourmet burger or root vegetable and lentil stew. (Louise Boutin)

91 ✓ Value
La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina $14.95 (292110) alcohol 14.0%
Price includes the $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased
Twelve months of maturation in French and American oak barrels is expressed with mixed spice and chocolate but also roasted plum and mushroom aromas in this medium-full bodied red from an excellent vintage. Initially velvety on the palate with spicy dark fruit and cola flavours, it morphs into an enjoyable robust and peppery juice with grippy tannins and a bright note of dry cherry extending in the finish and delicious aftertaste. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside lamb kofta or stuffed portobello mushroom. (Louise Boutin)

New from Ontario Wineries

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Casa-dea Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Prince Edward County $18.95 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas, bordering on elegant, are easily sourced with gentle swirls—floral notes, exotic spice and delightful incense abound on the nose followed by lovely aromas of citrus—lemon and lime—and ripe apricot and pear. It’s deftly balanced on the palate and is quite smooth and mellow on the finish and aftertaste. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour, pick up a few before they’re all gone then give it a go alongside skillet seared Atlantic salmon fillets under a squish of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Casa-dea Estates Winery ‘Late Harvest’ Pinot Grigio was sourced from estate fruit that was hand-harvested from 22-year-old vines after showing signs of naturally occurring Botrytis. It was picked on October 23rd, judged to be the final day for an optimum late harvest of this 2021 ‘Late Harvest’ Pinot Grigio. Chill before serving with sweetened dessert with all manner of fruit cake or fruit flan.

93 🇨🇦
Casa-dea Estates Winery ‘Late Harvest’ Pinot Grigio 2021
VQA Prince Edward County $21.95 11.5% alcohol
Heavenly aromas of maple syrup, caramel and wisps of molasses dominate the nose. Persistent purity of palate flavours—upside-down peach spice cake, pancakes and maple syrup—follow to and through the sweetened taste of the gorgeous finish and linger on through the delectable aftertaste. This can also be enjoyed at the end of a meal on its own… ‘as’ dessert. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘The Loyalist’ Chardonnay was sourced from 100% locally grown fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan by VegeCert.

• The following 2020 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard’ Chardonnay was sourced from 100% Prince Edward County fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan-friendly by VegeCert. The grapes were whole cluster pressed then 100% barrel fermented. Less than 10% new oak, the rest in seasoned French oak barrels.
92 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $34.00 13.3% alcohol
Delicate, elegant aromas of vanillin, floral and notes of baking brioche and buckwheat honey can be coaxed with a number of swirls. It blankets the palate with pit fruit—Mirabelle plum and ripe apricot along with notions of ripe nectarine, It’s medium bodied with good texture and mouthfeel and dishes up both a lengthy finish and aftertaste of lemon-lime citrus and saline minerality. Pour this alongside roast fowl—chicken, turkey or duck. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2020 Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard - Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir was sourced from 100% Prince Edward County fruit and is accredited and certified as vegan-friendly by VegeCert.

92 🇨🇦
Closson Chase Vineyards ‘Vineyard - Unfiltered’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Prince Edward County $36.00 (145888) 12.5% alcohol
A layered and complex nose sports aromas of piquant spice, wood smoke, gamey notes and notions of exotic incense. In spite of its light purple hue it blankets the palate with ripe dark fruit flavour—pie cherry, black raspberry tang and pizzazz and is underpinned by still evolving tannin. A two-hour aeration/decant will produce a more positive imbibing experience and this will play nicely with chicken pot pie, bobotie or cassoulet. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Rosehall Run Vineyards Chardonnay Musqué is a ‘Small Lots’ venture from a single-vineyard plot of estate-grown fruit in a particularly dazzling vintage.

• Winemaker notes - Sourced from our small ‘Vina de Casa’, a one-acre plot of Chardonnay Musqué clone 809, which are the first vines you see when you arrive at the estate. Prince Edward County is benefitted annually by not getting as many rain episodes as the rest of Ontario. One of the most fruitful benefits includes being one of the driest areas for grape growing in Ontario, and our Chardonnay Musqué welcomes the partial aridity. The wine was cold fermented in stainless steel tanks in order to preserve the perfumed orchard fruit aromas of our Chardonnay Musqué. To further preserve freshness, the Chardonnay Musqué was aged for a short period of about 4 ½ months and put into bottle in early May.

92 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards Chardonnay Musqué 2021
VQA Prince Edward County $26.00 12.0%
There are aromas of nutty nuances, exotic spices and floral notes on the nose. It dazzles the palate with a wash of balanced and bountiful flavours with blood orange, lemon pie filling and plenty of tang and pizzazz. It’s balanced with smooth flavours. It finishes lengthy with a lip-smacking finish and crisp refreshing aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared salmon fillets, grilled calamari rings or a sushi platter. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages: Limited Time Offers

White Wines

• Each wine below will receive a Limited Time Offer of either $2.00 per bottle, $2.50 per bottle $3.00 per bottle or $5.00 per bottle discount from the price shown below for every bottle purchased now to October 9, 2022 for both LCBO in-store and LCBO online purchases.
The following 5 white wines receive a $2.00 a bottle discount off the price shown below for each wine purchased between now and October 9, 2022 regardless of the vintage.

• The following 2020 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted – White Blend’ is the umpteenth vintage of this gem. It was sourced from 72% riesling/17% gewürztraminer/11% chardonnay, in a vintage that most called absolutely outstanding. The residual sugar is 15 g/L and the titratable acidity is 7.4 g/L. The Brix level of 20.1 measures the average sugar level in the unfermented grapes of this white blend.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted – White Blend’
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (1578) 12.0% alcohol
Exotic aromas of tinned lychee in rosewater, chalky minerality and lime cordial abound on the nose intertwined with ripe apricot and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Palate replays include tang-infused lemon juice, lime cordial and apricot. It’s clean, crisp and refreshing on the finish and aftertaste. Perfect for sipping in warm weather and to serve to guests with your choice of tapas. The price-quality balance tips in your favour; pick up a few and serve well into fall. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Castello Banfi “Principessa Gavia’ Gavi was sourced from 100% indigenous, estate-grown, cortese grapes, gently pressed and fermented under 18° C for twenty days in stainless steel enhancing freshness and delicate aromas in the wine. The winery began in 1860 then purchased by Banfi in the late 1970s.

92 ✓ Value
Castello Banfi ‘Principessa Gavia’ Gavi
DOCG Piedmont $19.95 (250696) 12.5% alcohol
This is a well-paced and well-priced Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select LCBO stores. Straw, citrus and wisps of honeyed aromas precede an explosion of flavour—lemon curd, sprigs of herbs and hints of pineapple. It coats the palate infusing the clean, refreshing finish and aftertaste. This is light-medium weight with good mouthfeel and a boatload of pizzazz and tangy acidity. Pour as an aperitif or with pan-seared white fish or poached scallops. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Kim Crawford Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

90 ✓ Value
Kim Crawford Chardonnay
Marlborough/Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand $19.95 (991950) 13.5% alcohol
This popular and exceptional-value chardonnay is clean and fresh on the nose with lots of mineral, peach, and floral aromas. It’s medium-full bodied on the palate with juicy acidity and flavours of apple and peach that fade in a luxuriously refreshing finish. Enjoy with Camembert cheese. (Dave Isaacs)

89
Mer Soleil ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay
Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County $29.95 (958975) 14.9% alcohol
Baking spice, caramel and toasty, buttery aromas unleash a huge gusher of flavour that will leave few imbibers without a strong opinion. If you’re looking for a full-bodied, fully textured, high-octane, tsunami wave of rich, luscious, sweet flavours—grilled pineapple, oak-inspired vanillin and caramel apple—then you should love this. There are tropical fruit notes along with ripe pear, a bit of citrus pith and wisps of oak on the sweet-tinged finish and aftertaste—not for the faint of palate. (Vic Harradine)

89
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio
DOC Valdadige, Italy $19.95 (106450) 12.5% alcohol
The LCBO once touted this as their best-selling wine. A delicate nose of floral notes, lemon tart and wisps of mineral precede a mid-weight, very nicely textured streak of lemon and lime garnished with notions of green apple. The mid-length finish is crisp, refreshing and lip-smacking good. Pair with steamed mussels and a sliced and buttered baguette. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 4 white wines will earn a $3.00 per bottle discount for each wine purchased from now to October 9, 2022.

• There’s very good value in the following premium Beringer Napa Chardonnay. Grapes sourced from multiple vineyard parcels were fermented in 25% stainless steel and 75% French oak followed by eight months barrel aging before bottling.

89
Beringer Vineyards Napa Valley Chardonnay
Napa Valley (84988) $28.95 14.1% alcohol
The nose leads with lemon, lime zest and red apple adorned with a pleasant floral note, hints of spice and toast. Dry and medium bodied with balancing acidity, the generous mouthfeel transports flavours of Meyer lemon, pear and Gala apple through the medium-long finish before a mineral note appears on the aftertaste. Sip on its own or alongside simply-prepared roast chicken. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following Sonoma Cutrer ‘Russian River Ranches’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine—always available in select LCBO stores.
91
Sonoma Cutrer ‘Russian River Ranches’ Chardonnay
Sonoma Coast, California $29.95 (608653) 14.2% alcohol
Baking spice, oak, pear and apple aromas abound. A medium-full bodied, generously textured surge of tangy lemon curd and Key lime interweave with baked apple and spice along with hints of grapefruit pith on finish and aftertaste. This has come around nicely since last tasted. Pour with roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Thirty Bench ‘Winemaker’s Blend’ Riesling
VQA Beamsville Bench $22.95 (24133) 10.8% alcohol
The lifted nose of lime and piquant spice aromas is also decorated with sharp mineral notes and notions of petrol. An off-dry surge of citrus-infused flavours explode on the palate with lemon curd and lime cordial providing pizzazz along with delicious accoutrements of melon, minerality and under-ripe orchard fruit. It’s medium-weight with a bountiful, lip-smacking finish. Divine sipped on its own, it pours well with grilled or pan-seared fish, steamed mussels or breaded and skillet-fried calamari. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Escarpment $22.95 (38117) 9.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of lemony citrus, buckwheat honey and notions of petrol precede a dazzling off-dry surge of lemon-lime cordial, a bowl of tropical fruit—pineapple, mango, rambutan—along with oodles of tangy pizzazz persisting from the first drop through the palate to the delicious, balanced and beautiful finish and aftertaste. This is quite special. Pour on its own or with spicy Asian dishes—General Tso’s chicken, moo shu pork or tikka masala. Pick up an armful. Drink now to 2028. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages: Limited Time Offers

Red Wines

• The following 10 wines will receive a $2.00 discount for each bottle purchased from now to October 9, 2022

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
13th Street Gamay Noir
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (177824) 13.0% alcohol
Smoke, spice and gamy notes roll from this juicy, lively, rustic gamay. The palate’s treated to a medium-bodied, nicely textured mouthful of red and dark berry fruit robed in excellent racy acidity along with mixed spice and bacon notes persisting through the dry finish. For full enjoyment, aerate/decant a couple of hours before pouring. (Vic Harradine)

90
Francis Coppola ‘Diamond Collection Ivory Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California $24.95 (521021) 13.5% alcohol
Wood smoke and toasty oak mingle with ripe dark fruit—mulberry, bramble berry and juicy cherry on the nose of this meaty, delectable California Cab. It’s full bodied and fully flavoured flaunting rich, concentrated and luscious flavours of spice-laden black Bing cherry and briary berry garnished with dark chocolate and cassis. The finish lingers with gorgeous replays, lip-smacking tang and a supple tannin base. (Vic Harradine)

• The following J. Lohr Paso Robles Merlot is a recent, welcomed edition to the Vintages Essentials portfolio and always available in select stores. Fruit was sourced from a number of sites in cooler plots and aged 12 months in oak barrel after 100% malolactic conversion. There’s a generous splash of 9% Malbec in here, accentuating fruit and complexity.
91
J. Lohr Paso Robles Merlot
Paso Robles, California $22.95 (27516) 13.5% alcohol
Black plum compote, black cherry and baking spice introduce a deftly balanced stream of dark ripe fruit—black currant, juicy Bing cherry—interwoven with dark bittersweet chocolate, sharp spice and an excellent dollop of juicy tang. This is medium-plus bodied with satin-smooth mouthfeel and is fruit forward throughout—the finish is rich, complex, tangy and lengthy. Pour with grilled steak or burgers dressed with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value
Kaiken ‘Selección Especial’ Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina $15.95 (58339) 14.0% alcohol
High-spirited aromas of black pepper, black plum compote and mixed spice provide segue for a tang-laden flow of red currant, black cherry and sprigs of savoury herbs blanketing the palate and persisting through the dry, warm finish. This is medium-plus bodied with good texture and an underpinning of tannin for structure and interest and framed by excellent acidity. Pour alongside pasta in tomato sauce or meat-laden red pizza. (Vic Harradine)

89
Oyster Bay Pinot Noir
Marlborough, South Island $20.95 (590414) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of strawberry/rhubarb pie and charred toast open the door to a medium-bodied, well-paced stream of tang-laden flavour with passionfruit and pie cherry to the fore that’s nicely balanced by mingling with ripe dark berry fruit flavour on the mid-palate and lingering, savory finish. Pour with smoked then skin-side-up broiled, duck breasts. (Vic Harradine)

90
Remo Farina Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico
DOCG Amarone Della Valpolicella $38.95 (995910) 15.0% alcohol
A red blend of indigenous grapes—50% corvina/20% corvinone/20% rondinella/10% molinara, Oseleta, Turchetta—this fills the room with delectable flavours of ripe bramble berry, raisin tart and cola notes. It blankets the palate medium-plus bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel and a boatload of warm comforting flavour—fig, dark cherry and black currant intertwined with excellent tang, grilled smoky herbs, mixed spice and mocha. It finishes lengthy and luxurious. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
San Felice Chianti Classico
DOCG Chianti Classico $19.95 (282996) 13.0% alcohol
This is a smooth-drinking blend—80% sangiovese, 10% colorino, 10% pugnitello—that underwent malolactic conversion. Aromas of savory herbs, pipe tobacco and piquant spice provide segue for a racy, tang-laden streak of sour cherry, cranberry and flecks of herbs and spices. Flavours replay on the dry, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Pour with pasta in tomato sauce, lasagna or meat-laden red pizza. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
Tessellae ‘Old Vines’ Grenache/Syrah/Mourvèdre - Côtes du Roussillon
AOC Côtes du Roussillon $19.95 (343517) 14.5% alcohol
This blend from southern France — 50% grenache, 40% syrah and 10% mourvèdre screams ripe black fruit — plum, blackberry, cassis and cherry. Fully textured on the palate with ripe yet chewy tannin, it is generous on the fruit flavours — dark cherry, blackberry, blueberry with licorice freshness and a suggestion of savoury charred herb. This full-bodied red has cellaring potential, is unbelievably well-priced and is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue party. Aerate/decant 2 hours and pop the cork now onto 2022. (Louise Boutin)

• The following Gérard Bertrand Gris Blanc Rosé is based on fruit from grenache vines with fruit protected as handling is done in a carbon dioxide atmosphere until the low-temperature fermentation begins – 15 to 18 °C – then it is matured on the fine lees for several weeks before bottling.

90 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand Gris Blanc Rosé
IGT Pays d’Oc, France $15.95 (14673) 13.0% alcohol
Almost water white in color with a salmon tinged, this rosé offers nectarine aromas along with citrus pith, white flower and dusty stone notes. It fills the mouth with a nice round and softly-textured wash coating the palate with flavours of orchard fruit and orange flesh evolving to refreshing pithy citrus flair and a mouth-watering, mineral, dry finish. This is an exceptional-value rosé worth stocking up for the summer. Sip with salted nuts or pour alongside an appetizer of prosciutto and nectarine or fried calamari. (Louise Boutin)

• The next red wine will earn a $2.50 discount for every bottle purchased from now to October 9, 2022

89
Sella and Mosca Cannoneau Di Sardegna ‘Riserva’
DOC Cannoneau Di Sardegna, Italy $18.95 (425488) 13.5% alcohol
This Cannoneau, a.k.a. grenache or garnacha, showers ripe fruit throughout along with good structure, intensity and balance. Aromas of anise, red berry fruit and wood smoke presage a steady wash of racy fruit flavour with red currant and pomegranate to the fore. It’s nicely balanced with a lengthy, dry finish layering on notions of dark coffee and spice. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Tawse ‘Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir is a Vintages Essentials product always available in select stores. This is a blend from hand-harvested fruit from select vineyards across the Niagara wine region matured 14 months in French oak barrels before bottling and release.

90 🇨🇦
Tawse ‘Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir
VQA Niagara Peninsula $29.95 (130989) 13.0% alcohol
A lightly-hued red in the glass, it offers delicate aromas of piquant spice, cedar and raspberry on the nose. It streaks over the palate with tart tang and acidity borne of crunchy red fruit flavours—currant, pie cherry and passionfruit—along with wisps of sharp spice. Pour with lasagna, pasta in tomato sauce or meat-laden pizza with a spicy red sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following four red wines will earn a $3.00 discount for every bottle you purchase from now to October 9, 2022

91 ✓ Value
7 Deadly Zins ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel
Lodi, California $21.95 (59311) 15.0% alcohol
Plum compote and crushed blueberry come to mind when nosing this ‘old vines’ zin, followed by raspberry, vanilla and cedar aromas emerging as you get deeper in the glass. A juicy flow of ripe blackberry, purple plum and raspberry glides on the palate with gentle heat and peppery notes. Tannins are present yet smooth and the sweet/savoury note in the finish makes you go back for more. Definitely a crowd pleaser, this full-bodied versatile red is a safe buy and is delicious with lamb burgers or glazed beef short ribs. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Kilikanoon ‘Killerman’s Run’ Shiraz
South Australia $19.95 (925453) 14.5% alcohol
Powerful, bold and concentrated, this is a rich and luscious crowd pleaser. Aromas and flavours abound in this dark purple opaque Aussie red with mixed spice, black pepper and a gusher of dark berry fruit, minty black cherry and kirsch liqueur among them. It’s medium-full bodied with a generous mouthfeel and a balanced, lingering aftertaste. It’s also a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select stores. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✓ Value
Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Shiraz
Clare Valley, South Australia $19.95 (943787) 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of black cherry, berry and plum intertwine with baking spice and cocoa on the nose of this value-packed shiraz. It spreads over the palate creamy smooth and medium-plus bodied while unleashing a gusher of fruit-forward flavour of ripe mulberry, black plum and ripe Bing cherry adorned with balancing tang and a boatload of pizzazz. It showcases persistent purity of fruit, is balanced on a pin and sports a dry, delectable finish with palate replays plus a hint of cassis and dark, bittersweet chocolate. Pour with friends and slow-cooked lamb shoulder or grilled rack of lamb. Pick up a few and drink over the next seven or eight years. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
The Foreign Affair ‘The Conspiracy’
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (149237) 13.8% alcohol
This cabernet, Ripasso-inspired red—the wine was ‘passed over’ cab sauv and cab franc skins from dried wines—highlights aromas of raisin, fig and red cherry. It flows over the palate with tannin-infused waves of dark berry fruit and red cherry that are spice laden and framed with good moderating acidity. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a long finish laced with still-evolving tannin. Pop corks now-2025 after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2 wines earn a $5.00 discount for each bottle you purchase from now to October 9. 2022.

93
Banfi Brunello Di Montalcino
DOCG Brunello Di Montalcino $57.95 (378257) 13.5% alcohol
Lively spice, earthy notes and savory herbs waft from this creamy-smooth, generously textured gem. This showcases persistent purity of fruit, structure, skillful balance and a lengthy finish. A medium-full bodied flow of palate-bathing flavour—ripe juicy black raspberry, red currant and crunchy pie cherry—mingle with excellent tang and acidity and soft supple tannin with all replaying on the dry, lengthy finish. After a three-hour aeration/decant pour with a thick and juicy fine cut of juicy, well-seasoned beef. (Vic Harradine)

92
Umberto Cesari ‘Liano’ Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
IGT Rubicone $28.95 (225086) 13.5% alcohol
Red cherry/berry aromas intertwine with savory herbs and baking spice preceding a dark chocolate-tinged river of mixed dark berry fruit and crunchy red cherry flavours mingling and melding on the palate, balanced with structure and depth. It’s full bodied with satiny texture and lengthy, mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with beef and cheese manicotti. (Vic Harradine)

• Aeroplan BONUS points earned for each following bottles purchased from now to October 8, 2022

• The following two wines will receive 50 BONUS Aeroplan points for each bottle purchased now to Octoberb 8, 2022 - valid for in-store purchase only.

90
Sella and Mosca Cannoneau Di Sardegna ‘Riserva’
DOC Cannoneau Di Sardegna, Italy $18.95 (425488) 13.5% alcohol
This Cannoneau, a.k.a. grenache or garnacha, showers ripe fruit throughout along with good structure, intensity and balance. Aromas of anise, red berry fruit and wood smoke presage a steady wash of racy fruit flavour with red currant and pomegranate to the fore. It’s nicely balanced with a lengthy, dry finish layering on notions of dark coffee and spice. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

91 🇨🇦
Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine
VQA Ontario $22.95 (522672) 200 mL 12.0% alcohol
This lighter-styled beauty keeps the final sip as fresh and lively as the first—it’s not cloying or over the top and that’s not a common occurrence for vidal icewine. A nicely balanced flow of palate-bathing apricot jam and white nectarine meet nirvana with a healthy dollop of lemon zest and racy blood orange on the palate and persists through the lingering finish and aftertaste. This pairs particularly well with Stilton on water crackers or pan-seared foie gras. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will receive 100 Bonus Aeroplan points for each bottle purchased now to October 8, 2022 - valid for in-store purchase only.

89
Foss Marai Prosecco ‘Extra Dry’ Non-Vintage
DOC Prosecco, Treviso, Veneto $19.95 (729392) 11.5% alcohol
A tempting nose of floral and citrussy notes tingle the nose and provide a fitting entry to this very well-priced sparkler. Nothing complicated, but everything is in balance, from the frothy attack of tropical fruit flavours and lemon zest to the lovely tang of acidity on the finish. Serve well chilled to guests as a welcoming wine. (Vic Harradine)

Dear subscriber, all of us at winecurrent.com thank you for subscribing and we fervently hope you are keeping safe and healthy.

Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

September 11, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

Argentina – Limited Time Offer - September 11 to October 8, 2022 (8 wines)
New in Ontario Wineries (11 wines)
Upstream in winecurrent (6 wines)

Newsletter Highlights:

Argentina – Limited Time Offer - September 11 to October 8, 2022 (8 wines)
New in Ontario Wineries (11 wines)
Upstream in winecurrent.com (6 wines)

Wines or Argentina — Limited Time Offers

Scan down the following eight Argentine wines then check the LCBO stores closest to you with product in inventory by clicking on the Link on each wine shown in brackets. e.g. (11943) for the first wine below.

• You will receive a $2.00 per bottle discount from the $12.05 regular LCBO price of the following Los Cardos ‘Doña Paula’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021 from September 11 to October 8, 2022.

91 ✓ Value
Los Cardos ‘Doña Paula’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Tupungato, Uco Valley, Argentina $12.05 (11943) 12.0% alcohol
Delicate floral notes meld with aromas of caramel and piquant mixed spice. Palate flavours of grassy notes, citrus and passionfruit dance sprightly to and through the mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. Pour on its own for a crisp, refreshing thirst quencher or alongside a sushi platter or lighter-styled appetizers of fish and seafood. (Vic Harradine)

• You will receive 50 Aeroplan Bonus points per bottle purchased of the following Graffigna ‘General Collection’ Pinot Grigio 2021 from September 11 to October 8, 2022.

91 ✓ Value
Graffigna ‘General Collection’ Pinot Grigio 2021
Mendoza and San Juan, Argentina $13.00 (164756) 12.5% alcohol
Floral notes, ripe honeydew melon and lime-drizzled tropical fruit aromas abound. It dazzles the palate with lemon-lime cordial and crisp green apple and ripe Bosc pear. It’s medium weight with delightful mouthfeel and plenty of crisp, refreshing flavour. Look for palate replays on the finish and aftertaste along with some mineral notes and wisps of honey. Pour on its own when the lazy days of summer are here or, if you like, with sushi or arugula tossed in olive oil and decorated with cubed feta cheese. Pick up a few, it punches well over the price. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✓ Value (no discount)
Terrazas de los Andes ‘High Altitude Vineyards – Reserva’ Malbec 2019
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (29280) 14.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of exotic spice, peppery notes and sandalwood are juxtaposed with black licorice and dark purple plum. It blossoms with a glorious river of delectable palate flavours—bountiful, bombastic and chockful of pizzazz. Ripe juicy black Bing cherry mingles with black raspberry and black plum compote along with tang-infused passionfruit and cranberry jelly. This is medium-plus bodied with good balance, a soft tannin underpinning, touches of elegance and a crisp refreshing finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with a grilled medium-rare skirt steak. (Vic Harradine)

• You will receive a $2.00 per bottle discount from the $15.95 regular LCBO price of the following Kaiken ‘Selección Especial’ Malbec 2019 from September 11 to October 8, 2022.

92 ✓ Value
Kaiken ‘Selección Especial’ Malbec 2019
Mendoza, Argentina $15.95 (58339) 14.0% alcohol
High-spirited aromas of black pepper, black plum compote and mixed spice provide segue for a tang-laden flow of red currant, black cherry and sprigs of savoury herbs blanketing the palate and persisting through the dry, warm finish. This is medium-plus bodied with good texture and an underpinning of tannin for structure and interest and framed by excellent acidity. Pour alongside pasta in tomato sauce or meat-laden red pizza. (Vic Harradine)

• You will receive 100 Aeroplan Bonus points per bottle purchased of the following Bodega Norton ‘Barrel Select’ Malbec 2021 from September 11 to October 8, 2022.

93 ✓ Value
Bodega Norton ‘Barrel Select’ Malbec 2021
Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina $15.00 (400556) 14.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of black cherry and black currant reveal themselves with the slightest of swirls accompanied by tobacco, violets, exotic spice and grilled savoury herbs. It blankets the palate with a stream of pure ambrosia, gorgeous texture and mouthfeel and deftly balanced along with creamy smooth flavours of ripe juicy bramble berry and ripe black cherry underpinned by fine-grained tannin and hints of tang-laden passionfruit and mocha. Give this gem a go with boeuf Bourguignon or steak and kidney pie. (Vic Harradine)

• You will receive a $1.00 per bottle discount from the $15.20 regular LCBO price of the following Pascual Toso ‘Toso Estate’ Malbec 2020 from September 11 to October 8, 2022.

92 ✓ Value
Pascual Toso ‘Toso Estate’ Malbec 2020
Mendoza, Argentina $15.20 (35170) 14.5% alcohol
Wood smoke, pipe tobacco and mocha aromas give way to a gorgeous array of palate flavours with pie cherry, black plum and bramble berry jelly intertwined with savoury herbs and tang-laden passionfruit and red currant jelly. This is medium-plus bodied with good texture and mouthfeel, deft balance and plenty of tang and pizzazz and soft, ripe tannin. Aerate/decant this for two hours before pouring alongside meat-laden pizza or prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)

• You will receive 100 Aeroplan Bonus points per bottle purchased of the following Masi Tupungato ‘Passo Doble – Organic Wine - Vegan’ Malbec-Corvina 2019 from September 11 to October 8, 2022.

92 ✓ Value
Masi Tupungato ‘Passo Doble – Organic Wine - Vegan’ Malbec-Corvina 2019
Tupungato, Valle de Uco, Argentina $15.70 (620880) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of raisins, red licorice and mixed field berry fruit abound adorned with mixed spice. It warms the palate with fruit-forward flavours of juicy black cherry, black currant and mulberry adorned with excellent acidity and tang plus deft balance and persistent purity of fruit through the lengthy, lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. What’s not to like? Pick up a few and serve with pasta in spicy tomato sauce with pan-fried Italian sausages or beef fajitas with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

• You will receive a $2.00 per bottle discount from the $15.95 regular LCBO price of the following Alamos ‘One Hundred Years of Family Winemaking’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 from September 11 to October 8, 2022.

93 ✓ Value
Alamos ‘One Hundred Years of Family Winemaking’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Mendoza, Argentina $15.95 (295105) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of dark cherry/berry fruit, espresso roast and cassis abound. It pleases the palate with a lively luscious river of piquant spice, ripe juicy red cherry and wisps of black plum and bramble berry fruit. It’s medium-plus bodied with satin-smooth mouthfeel and plenty of tang throughout. It’s nicely balanced with persistent purity of fruit and a soft tannin underpinning. The finish and aftertaste replay palate flavours. Pour now, it’s ready to drink, alongside pasta puttanesca or beef short ribs. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Order the following wines by the case for daily office, home or restaurant delivery direct by toll-free phone 1-888-399-1183, from the Rosehall Run Vineyards winery using this link -Rosehall Run - or pick it up from the cellar door on your next visit to the winery 1243 Greer Rd, Wellington, Ontario K0K 3L0 in Prince Edward County—it’s best to call first and make an appointment—it’s an easy approximately two-hour drive, or less, from the GTA or Ottawa via the 401 - Here’s a map. All orders of $85.00 and over receive FREE SHIPPING in Ontario.

• The 2021 Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Hungry Point – Estate Grown and bottled’ Pinot Gris was sourced from 100% Pinot Gris that was harvested in late September under ideal weather conditions allowing retention of good acidity and structure before frequent bouts of rain started in October. This wine was barrel fermented on lees in 500L neutral French oak puncheons for 6 months prior to assemblage and bottling. This wine was one of the great successes of the 2021 vintage.

93 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Hungry Point – Estate Grown & Bottled’ Pinot Gris 2021
VQA Prince Edward County $29.00 12.0% alcohol
Lifted alluring aromas of almonds and nectarine intertwine with blood orange and citrus peel. It sports creamy mouthfeel, structure and plenty of palate flavours with Mirabelle plum, ripe pear and plenty of racy tang riding a streak of passionfruit and lemon curd from twist top to last drop. Clean, crisp and refreshing. Give this a go with a sushi platter or crab cakes or line-caught pickerel; A.K.A. walleye. (Vic Harradine)

Winemaker’s Notes: A harvest marked by frequent rain changed and our usual plan to harvest our pinot noir grapes for rosé first and estate grapes destined for JCR last was flipped in 2021. This resulted in light yet wonderfully complex Pinot Noir fruit ideal for rosé with lively berry notes—a benefit of the additional hang time. To help balance the lightness of the Pinot Noir fruit, we added a portion of estate Pinot Gris that had extended lees contact, building some extra structure and depth into the vintage. The eventual blend of the finished wine is 80% pinot noir/20% pinot gris. The aging was done entirely in stainless steel and put into bottle after only six months to preserve the freshness of the fruit flavours.

92 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run Vineyards ‘Rosé of Pinot’ 2021
VQA Prince Edward County $28.00 12.5% alcohol
This is orange-pink hued in the glass. Aromas of wild strawberry and ruby red grapefruit mingle with orange peel and peach marmalade. It captures the palate with flavours of pure ambrosia with sugar-coated and grilled red grapefruit along with racy pie cherry and plenty of pizzazz from twist top to last drop and through the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared, butter spotted, East-coast salmon or line-caught pickerel or bass with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2013 Rosehall Run ‘Stardust – Estate Grown and Bottled’ Brut Zero - Sparkling Wine was fashioned Méthode Traditionnelle—a.k.a. in the method of Champagne with the 2nd fermentation having taken place in the bottles you purchased-- and sourced from estate grown 57% pinot noir/43% chardonnay from their Rosehall Vineyard. Fruit was barrel fermented in older French puncheons with extended lees contact.
94 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run ‘Stardust – Estate Grown and Bottled’ Brut Zero - Sparkling Wine 2013
VQA Prince Edward County $50.00 12.0% alcohol
This elegant, vintage-dated beauty gives up aromas of green apple, caramel and yeasty notes. It forms a formidable mousse when poured and gives up a delightful stream of fine-bead bubbles in the glass. Flavours of sugared baked apple and poached pear interlaced with racy lemon zest capture the palate on entry and make their way with excellent balance and persistent purity of fruit to the back palate. It finishes with flair and more of the same. This is a stylish sparkling wine to offer guests as a welcoming wine and to continue on to be poured with hors d’oeuvres and light mains. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2017 Rosehall Run ‘Loveless – Estate Grown and Bottled’ Brut Rosé - Sparkling Wine was made in the Traditional Method a.k.a. in the method of Champagne with the 2nd fermentation having taken place in the bottle(s) you purchased. This was sourced from 100% Pinot Noir from their Rosehall Vineyard. Loveless is 87% from the 2017 vintage and 13% from the 2014.

93 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run ‘Loveless – Estate Grown and Bottled’ Brut Rosé - Sparkling Wine 2017
VQA Prince Edward County $45.00 11.5% alcohol
There’s nothing ‘loveless’ about this aphrodisiac. Aromas of strawberry and yeasty notes waft easily from the glass before a surge of bubbles and flavours—red cherry/berry strawberry fruit intertwined with tangy ruby red grapefruit—bathes the palate. It’s attractive, even romantic in many ways—the soft pink hue, the gorgeous flavours, the balance and the lengthy, luxurious finish and aftertaste all point to this as a starter wine to a romantic evening for two. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Elevation - Bo-Teek Vineyard’ Cabernet is accredited as a sustainable wine from ‘Sustainable Winemaking Ontario’ and was sourced from one of the iconic and mineral-rich soil vineyards of the VQA Niagara Escarpment and is made up of 98% cabernet franc and 2% cabernet sauvignon that spent 18 months maturing in neutral oak along with settling in bottle sealed with cork before release. It has a proud history including the Bo-Teek Vineyard named for Thoroughbred Hall of Fame member George Frostad’s premier horse-breeding stable in the late 1950’s on this very site.

94 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Elevation - Bo-Teek Vineyard’ Cabernet 2020
VQA Niagara Escarpment $28.00 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of fresh red cherry/berry fruit mingle with savoury herbs and mixed spice adorned with notes of minerality and rose petals. It envelops the palate with tannin and full-flavoured ripe berry fruit with black currant and mulberry to the fore. This is just coming in to its own and would benefit from three months of careful cellar time and an aeration/decant of a couple of hours on opening. If you can’t wait, pour now alongside a premium cut of grilled medium-rare beef steak with a generous shake of © Hy’s Seasoned Salt. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021Vineland Estate Winery ‘Semi-Dry Riesling; was sourced from premium 100% Niagara Peninsula riesling fruit at the near-perfect organaleptical ripeness of residual sugar, acidity, tannin and percentage of alcohol. You may notice the unfamiliar green glass in the bottle that’s due to a world-wide supply chain shortage of the usual brown glass bottle. Personally, I like everything about it; you may, too—especially at the price-quality balance that tips wildly in your favour—93 points @ $13.95.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estate Winery ‘Semi-Dry’ Riesling 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 9.0% alcohol
Aromas of lemon-lime and flinty minerality dominate the nose of this fabulous riesling. It envelops the palate with lemon-lime cordial on entry and finishes up dry, crisp and refreshing with lemon curd flavour and notions of Key lime pie intertwined with ripe white peach and plenty of tang and pizzazz from twist top to last drop. This is pure ambrosia to sip on its own and will find many dance partners at the dinner table. Try spicy prawns sautéed in butter with a side of jasmine rice or a mixed platter of sushi or with a salad of arugula with a dash of olive oil for dressing and adorned by crumbled chèvre. One of the most popular white wines at $15.95 the reduced price of $13.95 will drive even more sales by the case than usual; don’t linger, purchase now. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay was sourced from various premium Niagara Peninsula vineyards and has a healthy dollop of 9.4 residual sugar making it an off-dry offering worth tracking down as the price-quality balance tips well in your favour, especially with the discount price. Pick up an armful or two.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (includes the $2 off on a Limited Time Offer) 11.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of floral notes, exotic incense and green apple abound on the nose of this exceptional-value gem. It blankets the palate with a surge of delectable ambrosia expressed as Meyer lemon, lemon pastille adorned with grilled ripe pineapple and oodles of tang-infused Granny Smith apple and notions of layers of lemon meringue pie. Give this a go with all manner of roast fowl or pan-seared in butter, freshwater, line-caught pickerel or bass. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet - Merlot was sourced from select Niagara Peninsula vineyards with the final blend being: 50% merlot/26% cabernet sauvignon/24 % cabernet franc along with moderate residual sugar of 6.5 grams.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet - Merlot 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.00 11.5% alcohol
This is lightly hued ruby in colour and easily wafts aromas of sharp spice, a mélange of black currant, juicy dark cherry and notions of charred toast. It rolls over the palate with tang-laden flavours of crunchy red fruit—pie cherry and red currant—mingling with a laser-like stream of tang-infused flavours over the palate finish and aftertaste. Give this a two-hour aeration/decant and pour now with pasta puttanesca or pastitsio (a.k.a. Greek lasagna) or chorizo and prawn paella. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Bo-Teek – Clone 54’ Pinot Blanc is accredited as a sustainable wine from ‘Sustainable Winemaking Ontario’ and is residing on a downward slope from the Twenty Mile Bench that was sourced from estate fruit sporting vines that were 25-years-old at the time of the 2021 harvest for this wine along with a moderate 6.0 residual sugar. The pinot blanc grape is a white mutation of pinot gris (itself a mutation of pinot noir that is autochthonous to Burgundy, France. Pour and serve this wine after being removed from the frig ten minutes before serving.

93 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Bo-Teek – Clone 54’ Pinot Blanc 2021
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $25.00 12.5% alcohol
Light-yellow hued when poured in the glass, aromas of delicate yellow plum, floral notes and a fruit bowl of nectarine, ripe pear and yellow peach appear after a couple of serious swirls. It blankets the palate with citrus flavours of lemon curd and lime cordial, ripe pineapple and plenty of tang and pizzazz. These flavours replay to and through the lip-smacking finish and crisp, clean and refreshing aftertaste. Sip on its own or with lighter-styled appetizers or with cold-smoked Atlantic salmon on a warmed bagel smothered in cream cheese and decorated with fine-chopped dill weed and sweet onion and a few capers strewn on the bagel and cream cheese along the way. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery Chardonnay Musqué is accredited as a sustainable wine from ‘Sustainable Winemaking Ontario’ and was sourced from estate vines on the Niagara Escarpment and given the high quality and low price of the finished wine, you might want to pick up a few. It carries itself well with 9.4 g/L residual sugar and enough acidity to match up well.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery Chardonnay Musqué 2021
VQA Niagara Escarpment $17.95 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of hazelnut, citrus and floral notes abound on the nose. It captures the palate with a wash of balanced and bountiful surging flavours with peel marmalade, Key lime pie and plenty of tang and pizzazz. It’s beautifully balanced with smooth and mellow flavours from opening twist top to last delectable drop. It finishes crisp, clean and refreshing. Pour with skewers of garlic prawns and butter-basted, pan-seared pearl onions or prawn ceviche or freshly shucked, Malpeque oysters dotted with hot sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon and a pinch of horseradish. (Vic Harradine)

• The fruit for the following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery was sourced from select vineyards from premium sites in the Niagara Peninsula from primarily cabernet franc fruit. Drink over the next 10 to 12 months. This carries residual sugar at 6.4g and almost the identical number for titratable acidity. Serve well chilled and taken from the kitchen frig 10 minutes before pouring and serving. We tend to serve white wines right out of the ‘too cold’ frig rather than removing from the ‘too cold’ frig 10 or so minutes before service, allowing the aromas and flavours to develop in the wine glass for the imbiber.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 11.5% alcohol
This is a pleasing orange-tinted pink in both the bottle and the wine glass. Aromas of mixed herbs and fresh ginger mingle with citrus and red cherry/berry fruit. It streams over the palate with tang-infused flavours of pie cherry, passionfruit and plenty of nerve and verve cascading from first sip and over the finish and aftertaste. This is a great thirst quencher and will find many dance partners at the table—try with brie cheese on a biscuit or bread roll or bruschetta or with your favourite sushi platter. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour—91 points @ $16.95. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent.com

Vintages Release: September 10, 2022

92 ✓ Value
Bodegas Atalaya ‘Laya’ 70% Garnacha Tintorera/30% Monastrell 2020
DOP Almansa, Spain $16.95 (132605) 14.5% alcohol
Black-purple ink and almost opaque in the glass from the Garnacha Tintorera, aromas of red cherry/berry fruit and grilled savoury herbs waft easily after giving the glass a swirl or two. It’s bold and brash on the palate sporting a gusher of pie cherry and passionfruit and plenty of tang and pizzazz that is soon followed up with ripe black plum and juicy black currant that rides a medium-plus bodied delightfully balanced stream of replays to and through the mouth-watering finish and delectable aftertaste. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour pick up an armful and enjoy with red meat-laden pizza or backyard burgers or cheese burgers. (Vic Harradine)

LCBO Release: September 11, 2022

92 ✓ Value
Speck Brothers Wine ‘Free Bird - Naturally Lively’ Riesling 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (28672) 11.0% alcohol
Aromas of floral notes, hints of honey and flinty minerality form the nose of this excellent riesling—it’s well balanced on the palate with a steady stream and persistence in purity of fruit from twist top to final drop. The finish is crisp and refreshing while the aftertaste delivers more of the same with palate replays galore. The price-quality balance is well in your favour; pick up a few and drink over the next few months alongside lighter-styled fish and seafood or a mixed sushi platter. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: October 22, 2022

• Grapes—merlot/cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc—for the following 2019 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Cabernet-Merlot were sourced from older vines that averaged over twenty years of age. This was hand-harvested gently destemmed and mechanically sorted. All juice was separated from the skins with no press wine added back. It is accredited as sustainably farmed and fashioned.

93 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Cabernet-Merlot 2019
VQA Short Hills Bench $44.95 (616433) 13.2% alcohol
Lifted aromas of black plum, dark cherry and bramble berry abound. It captures the palate on entry with red fruit—currants and passion fruit—mingling with generous acidity and plenty of pizzazz. This showcases a supple underpinning of tannin and plenty of fruit that is, for now not bothered by soft, ripe tannin. Give this another four to five years of careful cellaring or pour now after a two-hour aeration/decant with a premium cut of well-seasoned beef (try © Hy’s of Canada - Seasoning Salt) grilled medium-rare. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: October 22, 2022

• The following 2020 SKYFALL cabernet sauvignon was sourced from 85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% syrah with all fruit gently destemmed and crushed, then inoculated with commercial yeast for alcoholic fermentation. Each variety was fermented separately and pumped over twice daily with temperatures peaking at 90 ° F or 32.2 ° C with a shortened maceration for the cabernet sauvignon for tannin management while the syrah matured for 12 months in barrel with 30% in 1-2 year old French oak and 70% in neutral oak.

92
SKYFALL WINES Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
AVA Washington State, USA $18.95 (26508) 13.9% alcohol
Aromas of black raspberry and juicy Bing cherry are adorned with minty notes, piquant peppery spice and hints of Saskatoon berries. It caresses the palate on entry with oodles of fruit flavours with black plum compote and kirsch liqueur juxtaposed to racy tang and crunchy acidity that persists through the delightful finish and lengthy aftertaste. A pizza wine looking for a home-baked or a commercial pizza delivered with lots of toppings—mushrooms, green pepper, bacon and plenty of spicy tomato sauce and cheese. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: November 5, 2022

• The following 2019 Henry of Pelham (Speck Family Reserve) Pinot Noir is barely a teenager, though strutting its stuff now and certainly flashing signs of an enhanced future after even short-term cellaring. Sourced from older vines—some shovel planted 35 years before this fruit was harvested—that are sustainably grown under, and accredited by, SWM. Fruit was hand- harvested, gently destemmed and mechanically sorted. It was then stainless steel vat fermented with the cap punched down by hand. It was then aged in European oak, 30% new then married together with the balance in pre-loved oak with total oak maturation being ten months.

94 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Pinot Noir 2019
VQA Short Hills Bench $39.95 (657874) 13.0% alcohol
Grilled savoury herbs and mixed spice aromas mingle with red berry fruit on the nose of this fresh and lively pinot noir. A lively flow of flavours race over the palate with tangy red cherry and passionfruit intertwined with sweet black plum and hints of black cherry along with savoury herbs and a soft tannin underpinning. There are replays of palate flavours and mouth-watering tang on the lengthy finish. Time in the cellar should pay off handsomely, pick up a few and pour starting in late 2022 or early 2023. Drinking nicely now; aerate/decant two or three hours and pour alongside roast fowl with all the fixings—stuff bird with savoury dressing or, if you’re invited for dinner, bring this along for a superb host/hostess gift. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: November 5, 2022

93 🇨🇦
FERRATON PÊRE & FILS ‘LE PARVIS’ 2020
AOP Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France $59.95 (638551) 14.5% alcohol
Smooth and mellow from cork pop to last drop, alluring aromas of vanilla, floral notes and dark cherry/berry fruit adorned with piquant spice and earthy notes are soon joined by deftly balanced waves of palate flavours with black currant and ripe juicy Bing cherry melding with a tang-laden finish and a wonderful aftertaste that replays the palate flavours with nerve, verve and plenty of pizzazz. The tannins are soft, ripe and a gentle underpinning. Pour with Osso buco or cassoulet or cape malay bobotie. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers and best wishes from all of us at winecurrent.com - Louise Boutin, Lisa Isabelle, Dave Isaacs, Vic Harradine - who wish the best for you and loved ones. Stay healthy and be generous and helpful to those less fortunate.

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

August 15, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

There are 59 – there are 59 wines reviewed in this newsletter, an embarrassment of riches.
There are excellent bargains – there are 20 wines in the newsletter reviewed that receive Vintages: Limited Time Offers with discounts of $2.00, $3.00 or $5.00 for every bottle purchased August 15 to September 11, 2022 for both LCBO in-store and LCBO online purchases.
The wine reviews begin with – 15 reviews from this Saturday’s August 13, 2022 Vintages Release wines

Newsletter Highlights:

There are 59 – there are 59 wines reviewed in this newsletter, an embarrassment of riches.
There are excellent bargains – there are 20 wines in the newsletter reviewed that receive Vintages: Limited Time Offers with discounts of $2.00, $3.00 or $5.00 for every bottle purchased August 15 to September 11, 2022 for both LCBO in-store and LCBO online purchases.
The wine reviews begin with – 15 reviews from this Saturday’s August 13, 2022 Vintages Release wines

Vintages Release: Saturday August 13, 2022

Champagne

91
Charles Mignon ‘Premium Réserve’ Brut Champagne Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne $47.95 (421032) 12.0% alcohol
A 60% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Meunier blend produced this lively, fruity Champagne. There are aromas of green apple, Bosc pear, red berries with a squeeze of lemon followed by delicate floral notes on the nose. Ripe red apple, grapefruit, hints of spice and toast coat the palate. Dry, medium-bodied with a creamy texture, this Champagne finishes with mouth-watering acidity and fine, persistent bubbles. (Lisa Isabelle)

Sparkling Wine

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery Sparkling Rosé - Méthode Cuve Close - Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $19.95 (184176) 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of apple and pear interlaced with red cherry and hints of red currant give way to a surge of flavours on the palate with tang-infused black Bing cherry and black plum to the fore. This delivers a profusion of bubbles; first in the mousse then in seemingly endless streams of bubbles winding their way to the top of the liquid in the glass. It’s deftly balanced with wisps of sweetness then a wonderful tang-laden finish and aftertaste. Pick up a few; the price-quality balance tips well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)

93
Cave de Ribeauvillé ‘Giersberger Brut’ Crémant d’Alsace Non-Vintage
AOC Alsace $21.95 (183624) 12.0% alcohol
Floral aromas interlace with minerality and lemon citrus on the nose. There’s a delicious wave of tropical fruit—melon, pineapple and notions of mango—mingling with racy, refreshing grapefruit and Key lime. This is well balanced with frothy fine-bead bubbles and a clean, crisp and mouth-watering finish. There’s a world of good value here. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wines

• The following 2021 Featherstone Estate Winery Pinot Grigio was sourced from 100% machine- harvested Pinot Grigio. 50% of the grapes were left on the skins to soak, and then pressed while the other half was pressed immediately then transferred into stainless steel fermentation tanks to be fermented with a commercial yeast strain at a controlled temperature of 15 °C and the ferment was on lees for ten days. You will notice the pink hue of the wine, although there is 100% pinot grigio fruit. It is brought about as the pinot grigio grape is a mutant clone of pinot noir with some purple grapes appearing on virtually all bunches.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery Pinot Grigio 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (20599) 12.0% alcohol
Strawberry and watermelon aromas mingle with rose petals and hints of peppery spice on the nose. It’s a glorious stream of palate-flavours with wild strawberry, red raspberry and sugared and grilled ruby red grapefruit galore. This showcases gorgeous aromas and flavours, good balance, persistent purity of fruit and a moderately lengthy lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Sip on its own or pour with a plate of your favourite sushi or pan-seared calamari rings or scallops. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Unplugged - Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $17.95 (68015) 13.0% alcohol
This saw not a splinter of oak; it’s pure and chardonnay-fruit driven. Alluring aromas of green apple, soft citrus and notions of pear dominate the nose. A wash of palate flavours—Meyer lemon, Granny Smith apple and a hint of tangy grapefruit—persist through the crisp, clean and refreshing finish and aftertaste. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; it’s delicious, very well balanced and versatile at the dinner table. Give this a go with pan-seared fish and seafood, pork cutlets or roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Riesling 2020
VQA Short Hills Bench $19.95 (557165) 11.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of apple, ripe apricot, honeydew melon and floral notes waft easily from the glass after the gentlest of swirls. It envelops the palate with a lovely stream of barely off-dry flavours with lemon pastilles, tarte tatin and ripe pineapple to the fore. Pick up an armful and pour with spicy Thai and Vietnamese food, tandoori chicken or beef vindaloo. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Rosé Wine

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes Cuvée d’Andrée Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $18.95 (333260) 12.0% alcohol
This is a vibrant pinot noir-based rosé crafted with the saignée method. It has strawberry and watermelon aromas on the nose along with beetroot and a little bit of bay leaf flair. Crunchy red cherry flavour takes the lead on the palate, followed with strawberry and tangy cranberry plus a touch of earthiness in the finish and aftertaste. Versatility is the key word for pairing here, try with grilled salmon, beet and avocado tartare or charcuterie board. (Louise Boutin)

89 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Cabernet Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (12841) 12.5% alcohol
Abundant fruit aromas—watermelon, raspberry, strawberry jam and red currant—meld with hints of orange zest and lilac on the nose. The juicy palate unleashes a stream of watermelon, strawberry and sweet citrus flavours, grounded by a savoury herbal note. Medium bodied, barely off-dry with bright acidity, the fruit flavours shine on the lengthy finish. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following 2021 Malivoire Wine ‘Vivant’ Rosé is a blend of 88% pinot noir/12% pinot gris and is accredited sustainable in the vineyard and when applying winemaking practices. Estate-grown pinot noir and pinot gris was hand-harvested while still cool temperatures in early morning on September 14th and 23rd. The sugar level in the unfermented grape averaged 21.3 ° Brix. Fruit was transported quickly to the winery where it was pressed immediately after which the juice was chilled in a horizontal ‘dairy tank’ prior to controlled cool fermentation in stainless steel.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine ‘Vivant’ Rosé 2021
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (498535) 12.0% alcohol
A slight, pink-hue greets the eye while the nose takes in strong aromas of strawberry, cranberry and red cherry. It surges over the palate with a racy streak of tart rhubarb and strawberry pie, along with Meyer lemon and passionfruit. This is well paced, well-priced, well balanced and well… lip-smacking delicious from twist top to last drop. The winemaker suggests pouring with rainbow trout and I agree, especially when pan-seared then receiving a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Marynissen Estates Rosé was sourced from an eclectic blend of 35% pinot noir/25% riesling/20% pinot gris/11% cabernet franc/9% muscat sourced from select plots in the VQA Niagara Peninsula appellation. The pinot noir was harvested and cold soaked for six hours prior to being pressed and fermented cool in stainless steel tank while the cabernet franc juice was bled off the skins after three hours in tank and fermented warm in stainless steel while the pinot noir and riesling fermentations were arrested to provide aromatic intensity and to preserve a portion of the residual sugar for balance in the finished wine. Pinot gris and cabernet franc were both fermented to dryness with the final proportions of the blend decided based on aromatic intensity, flavour, and texture. This wine is yet another stellar example of the dazzling 2020 vintage for Ontario wines and is splendidly priced. Pick up a few, you won’t be disappointed.

90 ✓ Value
Marynissen Estates Rosé 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (16454) 11.5% alcohol
A psychedelic pink in the glass, aromas of strawberry and cherry abound on the nose. It blankets the palate balanced on a pin with plenty of ripe red apple and ripe red cherry adorned with oodles of tangy passionfruit and hints of pie cherry that start on entry, expand at mid-palate and persist with purity of fruit through the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Delicious on its own, it really sings out when poured with chèvre crumbled on olive-oiled mesclun salad or pan-seared calamari or steamed mussels. This is available at select ‘Wine Country boutique’ LCBO stores. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Ivory & Burt Cabernet Sauvignon pays homage to two of the early settlers in Lodi—Charles Ivory and J.M. Burt. The Lodi soils are rich in minerals and well drained along with a Mediterranean climate of warm afternoons and cool evenings that allows grapes to develop ripe fruit flavours. These fruit-forward wines have nice acid balance that characterize the quintessential Lodi style that has made and kept its sterling reputation. This is 100% sustainably grown and matured in pre-loved oak barrel.

91
Ivory & Burt Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
AVA Lodi, California $21.95 (24912) 14.5% alcohol
Full-fruited aromas of black currant, juicy black Bing cherry and wisps of mint and minerals on the nose that are easily brought out and identified with a serious swirl or two. The creamy-smooth mouthfeel and nicely balanced palate flavours of black plum compote intertwined with floral notes and tang-infused red pie cherry will bring you back for more. The finish lingers as does the sweet aftertaste of cherry clafoutie. Pour with liver pâté, sliced sweet onion and © Ace bread. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

90 ✓ Value
Zuccardi ‘Q’ Malbec 2020
Valle de Uco, Mendoza $19.95 (723478) 14.0% alcohol
Fresh, lively, alluring aromas of red cherry, tobacco, black currant and hints of blueberry abound on the nose of this 100% malbec that was sourced from various vineyards that are 1000m to 1100m above sea level. It captures the palate with a surge of lively flavours with tangy pie cherry and red currant jelly most prominent along with black, juicy Bing cherry for balance. This is tangy and almost ready to drink with a solid underpinning of still-evolving tannin that can be easily ameliorated with a two-hour aeration decant, or two more years carefully cellared. Pour with your favourite grilled red meat. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

• The following 2018 Wakefield ‘Jaraman’ Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from two premium Cabernet Sauvignon sub-regions in South Australia with a split of 56% from Clare Valley and 44% from the iconic Coonawarra. The wine was matured in French oak barrels—50% 1 year old, 50% a combination of 2 and 3 year old—for a period of 10 -12 months before being bottled. This vintage has won an impressive number of Gold and Silver medals that can’t be all counted using your fingers on both hands and your toes on both feet.

92
Wakefield ‘Jaraman’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
GI’s Clare Valley and Coonawarra, Australia $24.95 (142398) 14.5% alcohol
Dark and brooding in the glass, aromas of dark cherry/berry fruit, mocha, mint and grilled savoury herbs waft easily with the gentlest of swirls. It envelops the palate with a bold and bountiful surge of endless flavours with crème de cassis, bramble berry and rich, luscious kirsch liqueur adorned with dark bittersweet chocolate and scads of tang-laden pizzazz. This showcases persistent purity of fruit and flavours, good texture and creamy mouthfeel. The finish lingers and provides a balanced and bountiful aftertaste, as well. Pour with all manner of meat you grill on the barbecue, from rack of lamb to a beef tenderloin roast. (Vic Harradine)

France: White Wine

• The following 2020 Cote des Roses Chardonnay was sourced from vineyards grown in varied compositions but mainly in pebble-strewn soils with a sub-soil of limestone and schist. Grapes are mechanically harvested and optically sorted at the same time. Grapes are destemmed at the winery and cooled down to 8 °C and transferred to press. Only the first, high-quality juice makes its way to this wine. The fermentation of this 100% chardonnay lasts between 15 and thirty-plus days depending on temperature and clarification. After light fining, the wine is bottled quite early to preserve its fresh, fruity character. The bottom of the bottle is carved in the shape of a rose and makes an elegant flower vase and the bottle is sealed with an ingenious glass and plastic stopper.

91 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand ‘Cote des Roses’ Chardonnay 2020
IGP Pays D’Oc, France $18.95 (10621) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of pineapple, exotic floral notes and lemon pastille abound on the nose. It surges over the palate with flavours of lemon zest, lime juice and plenty of nerve and verve, tang and acidity, tempered with saline minerality and orchard fruit—pear and apple—on the mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. This is crisp, clean and refreshing. Delightful on its own, it pours particularly well with pan-seared salmon, steamed mussels or grilled calamari—all with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

Spain: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Bodegas Castaño ‘Hécula – Organic’ Monastrell was sourced from 100% monastrell grapes from two districts—Las Gruesas and Pozuelo—whose soils are high in limestone content and have the highest elevation in the region. After alcoholic fermentation it underwent 10 days of malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks before maturing for six months in 80% French and 20% American oak barrels, with 50% new oak. This score punches well over its price-quality ratio; pick up a few.

90 ✓ Value
Bodegas Castaño ‘Hécula – Organic’ Monastrell 2019
DO Yecla, Spain $14.95 (718999) 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of exotic spice and incense intertwine with dark berry fruit aromas on the nose of this popular, exceptional-value red monastrell—aka mourvèdre. It’s rich and luscious on the palate with a surge of creamy-smooth, medium-full bodied river of delicious flavours—black currant, black plum and dark juicy cherry—interwoven with excellent tang and acidity and soft, ripe tannin. The finish is nicely balanced and the aftertaste replays palate flavours along with notions of espresso roast and wood smoke. Pour with back ribs smoked, grilled and mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. Aerate/decant for two hours before service. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages: Limited Time Offers

• Each wine below will receive a Limited Time Offer of either $2.00 per bottle, or $3.00 per bottle or $5.00 per bottle discount from the price shown below for every bottle purchased August 15 to September 11, 2022 for both LCBO in-store and LCBO online purchases.

• The following five bottles receive a $3.00 per bottle discount for each bottle purchased August 15 to September 11, 2022.

90 ✓ Value
Marchesi de' Frescobaldi ‘Tenuta di Castiglioni’
IGT Toscana, Italy $22.95 (145920) 13.0% alcohol
This red blend—cabernet sauvignon/merlot/cabernet franc/sangiovese—matured 12 months in French oak barriques and a further two months in bottle before release. Alluring aromas of red and black berry fruit mingle with mocha on the nose of this medium-bodied, nicely textured gem. It bathes the palate with a round, smooth stream of red currant and pie cherry interlaced with mixed spice and grilled savory herbs. It finishes dry, lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)

• The following is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores

88
Oyster Bay Pinot Grigio
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand $19.95 (326090) 12.0% alcohol
This is a cool-climate styled pinot grigio that was stainless steel fermented with a similar profile both on the nose and palate—ripe pear, green apple, a touch of ginger and a grassy/herbal note in the background. It’s medium-light bodied with a good balance of sweetness and acidity. It pairs well with friends and a sushi platter. (Louise Boutin)

92
Two Hands Wines ‘The Gnarly Dudes’ Shiraz
Barossa Valley, South Australia $24.95 (660043) 13.8% alcohol
Purple/black, almost opaque in the glass, this unleashes aromas of ripe black berry fruit with support from mixed spice and savory herbs. On the palate, crunchy red fruit—pie cherry and cranberry—meet up with ripe black fruit—currant and mulberry—in a delightful, delicious pairing that’s balanced, well paced and well priced. Flavours replay on the long, mouth-watering finish. This pours well on its own—with each sip as good, or better than the previous—and with rack of Australian lamb or grilled steak. (Vic Harradine)

• The following bottle receives a $5.00 per bottle discount for each bottle purchased August 15 to September 11, 2022.

90
Stags’ Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley, California $62.95 (996405) 14.1% alcohol
This offers good balance on the palate, flavourful fruit and a drying, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Aromas of dark berry fruit, tarry notes and grilled savory herbs provide segue for a full-bodied, generously textured flow of black berry, sweet vanilla and racy red currant washing over the palate infusing the dry finish and aftertaste along with reverberating tang. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 14 bottles receive a $2.00 per bottle discount for each bottle purchased August 15 to September 11, 2022.

92 ✓ Value
Bonterra Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendocino County, California $21.95 (342428) 12.5% alcohol
A ‘Vintages Essentials’ product—it’s always available in select LCBO stores. This opens with a lifted nose of earthy, spicy, forest floor aromas then shifts into high gear with a gusher of gorgeously rich and concentrated flavours—cassis, tart pie cherry and ripe juicy black raspberry. There’s excellent balance and good structure supplied by ripe and plush tannin, a generous texture and good weight. The finish layers on hints of mint and mocha. This was vinified from organically grown fruit from a winery that’s serious about sustainable agriculture. The price-quality balance is tipped well in your favour with the discount. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Cave Spring Cellars Pinot Noir
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (417642) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of earth, spice box and fennel waft from the glass of this well-structured Pinot. Look for tart flavours of Montmorency cherry and cranberry mingling with ripe Bing cherry, black currant and hints of beetroot—great balance of flavours. There are supple tannins and seamlessly integrated oak—aged 8 months in French oak barrels. It finishes tangy and spicy. It’ll drink well over the next 3 years; pick up a few as the discount makes this very attractively priced considering the quality. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select stores. It’s also an exceptional-value wine with the price-quality balance tipped well in your favour; pick up a few at the discounted price of $14.95 per bottle.

90
Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache
AOP Languedoc, France $16.95 (413237) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of black currants, black licorice and tarry notes abound. It rolls over the palate with crunchy red and black fruit—plum, currant and passionfruit—framed by tangy acidity and underpinned by soft, ripe tannin. Medium-full bodied and nicely textured, this is enhanced with a two-hour aeration/decant. Versatile at the table, pour alongside burgers, gourmet sausage, red pizza or pasta in Bolognese sauce. (Vic Harradine)

89
Joel Gott ‘815’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California $24.95 (444059) 13.9% alcohol
Savoury herbs, gamy notes and charred toast aromas herald a medium-bodied nicely textured stream of rich dark fruit—cherry and black currant—intertwined with racy tang, sweet vanilla and dark bittersweet chocolate underpinned by still-evolving tannin. Aerate/decant for an hour or two hours before pouring with well-seasoned, grilled striploin. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value
ring.bolt Cabernet Sauvignon
Margaret River, Australia $21.95 (606624) 14.5% alcohol
Floral, savory and dark berry fruit aromas set the table for a smorgasbord of flavours led by a palate-coating, gusher of ripe juicy fruit—ripe juicy black Bing cherry, black bramble berry and red currant—interlaced with black licorice, espresso roast and hints of cassis. Showcasing good purity of fruit and with depth and complexity, this is medium-full bodied with creamy-smooth mouthfeel and a lingering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Megalomaniac ‘Narcissist’ Riesling is a Vintages Essentials wine—always found in many select LCBO retail stores.

89 🇨🇦
Megalomaniac ‘Narcissist’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (67587) 11.0% alcohol
Citrus, minerality and floral notes waft freely from the aromatic nose followed by a balanced and beautiful, palate-bathing wash of lemon-lime, white grapefruit and juicy peach on the palate. The sweet and tangy, lip-smacking aftertaste interweaves with lingering, ripe-fruit flavour. Poured well with spicy, Asian cuisine like moo chu pork. There’s good value here. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores. The discounted price ($14.95) makes this worthy of picking up a few.

93
Tommasi Valpolicella Classico Superior ‘Ripasso’
DOC Valpolicella Classico Superior, Veneto $25.95 (910430) 14.0% alcohol
A quiet nose of sweet black berry fruit opens up a glorious experience for lucky tasters. The fruit-forward nature of this wine unleashes a salvo of flavours including rich and concentrated cherry and bramble berry infused with fruit cake spice and dark chocolate. The memorable finish has gobs of black sweet fruit and black pepper with a hint of cigar box. At this price—$23.95 with the discount—flip open the trunk and toss in a case. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✓ Value
Gran Coronas ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
DO Penedès, Spain $19.95 (36483) 13.5% alcohol
A Vintages Essentials wine, it’s always available in select stores. Aromas of camphor, cracked pepper and spiced mulberry drift easily from this well-paced complex gem. A glorious rush of flavour washes over the palate with pie cherry, ripe boysenberry and kirsch liqueur predominant. Medium bodied and silky smooth, the lingering well-balanced finish is redolent of blueberry, espresso roast and black currant. The 12 months in French oak has been seamlessly integrated. Pair with a slab of back ribs grilled and slathered in a spicy bar b que sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Malivoire wine is a perennial-favourite found as a Vintages Essentials product and is always available at a large number of select LCBO stores.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine ‘Ladybug’ Rosé
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (559088) 12.0% alcohol
Myriad red fruit aromas—strawberry, watermelon and ruby red grapefruit among them—precede a light-medium bodied, racy wash of palate flavours with passion fruit and red currant to the fore. It finishes with a blaze of lip-smacking tang reminiscent of the red grapefruit aromas on the nose. It’s clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to last drop. It pairs well with skinless Atlantic salmon pan-seared in butter or ham and cheese crust-less quiche. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Tawse ‘Sketches’ Rosé is a blend of red grapes—cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc/pinot noir/merlot—from various premium selected plots as all the fruit was purchased and made in the saignée method from four to 24 hours depending on the batch. This wine is a great example of the VQA Ontario 2020 vintage and has a nicely balanced 5.9 g/L residual sugar. This is also a Vintages Essentials wine always available in a large number of select LCBO retail stores.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Tawse ‘Sketches’ Rosé 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (172643) 13.0% alcohol
Mixed red cherry/berry aromas intertwine with floral notes on the nose. It bathes the palate with a nicely balanced stream of delightful, delectable flavours—red raspberry, strawberry and tangy pie cherry—stretching through to the finish and aftertaste. This is rich in flavour and balanced on a pin with a lengthy lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour, pick up a handful. Sipping well on its own, it’s versatile at the table, pour with pan-seared or poached salmon or a variety of sushi and sashimi. (Vic Harradine)

New Vintages in LCBO General List

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham Family Estate Cabernet-Merlot 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (504241) 13.0% alcohol
Ruby-hued when poured and easily swirled to showcase elegant aromas of black currant, dark cherry and charred toast adorned with exotic spice and hints of sandalwood. A surge of red cherry/berry fruit blankets the palate with tang-infused flavours of pie cherry and red currant jelly, followed by sweet cherry clafoutie. There are hints of still-evolving tannin on the finish and aftertaste; pour with pasta puttanesca or osso buco. The price-quality ratio skews well in your favour; 90 points @$15.95. Pick up a few, especially now to August 13th to pay $13.95 per bottle on an LCBO $2.00 per bottle Limited Time Offer. (Vic Harradine)

• The mind boggles as Yalumba has been a family-owned and family-managed winery since 1849. At present, 5th generation Chairman, Robert Hill-Smith and his family manage Yalumba. The price-quality balance of the following 2019 Yalumba ‘Y Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon tips well in your favour—90 points @ $14.95.

90 ✓ Value
Yalumba ‘Y Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
GI South Australia $14.95 (17759) 14.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of black currant, crème de cassis and black plum compote abound on the nose of this delectable gem. Palate flavours of persistent purity of fruit—ripe mulberry, black bramble berry and notions of dark, juicy Bing cherry—begin on entry and persist to and through the mouth-watering finish and tang-infused aftertaste. It’s good to open now—give it a two-hour aeration/decant—and pour alongside a grilled rack of Aussie lamb check out the link, it’s a recipe.

• Yalumba is the oldest family-owned and family-managed winery in Australia and is a member of Australia’s First Families of Wine - Examine this über-exclusive group by clicking on the blue-coloured link. The price-quality balance in the following wine, the 2021 Yalumba ‘Y Series’ Viognier tips wildly in your favour—91 points @ $14.95

91 ✓ Value
Yalumba ‘Y Series’ Viognier 2021
GI South Australia $14.95 (470062) 13.5% alcohol
The straw-coloured liquid with predominant green hues gives off lifted aromas of honeydew melon, floral and citrus notes along with ripe nectarine and peel marmalade mingling with licorice and spent yeast cells abound on the nose of this dry white wine—1.2 g/L residual sugar, that’s medium-full bodied and lip-smacking good. It surges over the palate with lemon acidity and plenty of tang and pizzazz. Purity of fruit flavours persist from twist top to last drop with a mélange of orchard and pit fruit with ripe juicy Mirabelle plum, ripe Bartlett pear and tang-infused blood orange to the fore. Pour with pan-seared in butter Atlantic salmon or steamed mussels in a broth of white wine, cream and chopped leeks. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Joliesse Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced primarily from premium fruit in vineyards in AVA Lodi, California. It was sourced from 88.0 % cabernet sauvignon and 12.0% petit verdot with the finished wine sporting 5.5 g/L of residual sugar.

92 ✓ Value
Joliesse Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
AVA California $17.95 (16564) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of charred toast, © Ribena and medicinal notes give way to a mélange of palate flavours of red crunchy pie cherry juxtaposed nicely with dark plum compote and ripe sweet bramble berry. This is medium-plus bodied with good balance and plenty of nerve, verve and oodles of pizzazz. The finish and aftertaste pick up on palate replays with a lingering and lip-smacking wrap up. Pour with burgers, grilled gourmet sausage or a meat-laden red pizza. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Joliesse Vineyards Chardonnay purports to have harnessed the power of the California sun in this Chardonnay. It saw mostly stainless steel vats with a small number of French oak barrels to impart an elegant structure.

90 ✓ Value
Joliesse Vineyards Chardonnay 2021
AVA California $16.95 (25947) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of subdued citrus fruit—grapefruit and lemon—mingle with honeydew melon and hints of sweet vanilla while preceding a gusher of palate flavours that bedazzle the senses—lemon chiffon pie, nectarine and pecans. This is pure ambrosia that is bountiful and balanced with persistent purity of fruit from cork pop to last drop. The finish and aftertaste are crisp, clean and refreshing. Pour this on its own as a happy hour starter or pour alongside Sunday dinner roast chicken and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: September 10, 2022

• The following 2019 Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir was hand-harvested, sustainably grown and certified by Sustainable Wine of Ontario. After being gently de-stemmed and mechanically sorted, grapes were then carefully moved by gravity. Grapes are de-seeded then seeds added back judiciously to control the tannin structure of the wine. Fruit was fermented in stainless steel using pulse-air with hand punch downs to gently manage the cap.

93
Henry of Pelham ‘Family Estate’ Pinot Noir 2019
VQA Short Hills Bench $27.95 (268391) 13.0% alcohol
Gamey notes mingle with subdued aromas of barnyard, piquant spice and savoury herbs on the nose. A stream of red cherry and black currant flavours envelop the palate adorned with tang-infused passionfruit, black plum, dark ripe cherries and hints of ripe manageable tannin. It’s medium bodied with pleasant mouthfeel, good balance and plenty to like. Give this a try with smoked duck breasts or roast turkey. This is very good value and extremely enjoyable drinking now; and… it may still continue to improve over time as it has since previously tasted in October, 2021. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Château Vrai Caillou was sourced from 55% merlot/25% cabernet franc/20% cabernet sauvignon by 6th generation vignerons and was bottled at the estate that is situated in the l’Entre-deux-Mers wine region between the Dordogne and the Gironde Rivers.

89 ✓ Value
Château Vrai Caillou 2018
AOC Bordeaux Supérieur, France $14.95 (348292) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of grilled savoury herbs, rich red cherry/berry fruit and exotic spice mingle on the nose of this Bordeaux red blend. It’s medium-plus bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel, good balance with soft tannin, crunchy red cherry/berry fruit and some delectable bramble berry jelly on the back palate, finish and aftertaste. Pour with backyard burgers or grilled gourmet sausage off the barbecue. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: September 24th, 2022

• The following 2019 Chombart + Speck ‘Cave Mystère’ Merlot is a collaboration between the Chombart family of Bordeaux, France with the Speck brothers of Henry of Pelham winery here in Ontario. The prehistoric caves below the Chambort’s vineyards at their winery, Château Lamothe-Haux, are carved out of limestone and go for kilometers as the limestone is used for the buildings in the area. The raisin d’être for the collaboration is to fashion a red wine in ‘old world’ Bordeaux to please ‘new world’ palates’. This particular wine matured in French oak barriques in the caves below ground level at the winery.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Cave Mystère ‘Chombart & Speck Families’ Merlot 2019
AOC Bordeaux, France $19.95 (17232) 14.0% alcohol
Dark, brooding and almost opaque when poured, it dishes up aromas of piquant spice, notions of mint and cherry/berry fruit galore on the nose with the gentlest of swirls. It rolls over the palate in delectable waves of mellow and smooth flavours with ripe juicy cherry and sweet bramble berry joined on the finish and aftertaste by an underpinning of soft tannin and pleasing tang-infused crunchy red cherry. Pour alongside a premium cut of beefsteak grilled medium-rare with a side of steamed, chopped and creamed, fresh spinach. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Henry of Pelham Family Estate ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay was hand-harvested at 3 tonnes per acre and whole cluster-pressed then barrel-fermented in French oak with a portion in large 3000L foudres and then barrel-aged for eight to ten months with a portion of that in new oak barrels.

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham Family Estate ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Short Hills Bench $34.95 (616466) 13.5% alcohol
Shy aromas can be coaxed from the glass with some serious swirls. Orange blossoms and citrus aromas mingle with green apple and toasty notes on the nose. A surge of pure ambrosia captures the palate with flavours of crisp Granny Smith apple, ripe honeydew melon and lemon-lime tang and pizzazz. It gives a full-Monty effort on and after the palate with the lip-smacking finish and delectable lengthy aftertaste. My highest compliment—it was incredibly difficult to spit after tasting, rather than swallowing the wine, although I did manage to spit. (Vic Harradine)

91
Soho Wines ‘Stella’ Sauvignon Blanc 2022
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $22.95 (554311)
You will find the usual suspects when nosing this in your glass—passionfruit, gooseberry, grassy and flinty notes. It stings a bit on the front palate with piquant spice and sprigs of herbs along with Key lime and Meyer lemon before smoothing out with lemon pastille and Key lime pie on the tangy finish and lingering balanced aftertaste. Pour with steamed green-lipped mussels in a broth of cream, white wine and chopped leeks. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Quinta de S. Sebastião ‘Syrah-Tinta Roriz’ is a blend of two grapes, Syrah aka Shiraz as well as Tinta Roriz aka Tempranillo in Spain and numerous other countries of the wine world.

87 ✓ Value
Quinta de S. Sebastião ‘Syrah-Tinta Roriz’ 2019
Vinho Regional Lisboa, Portugal $13.95 (946360) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of earthy notes, dark cherry/berry fruit and notions of prune plums precede a tang-infused river of palate flavours with pie cherry and passionfruit to the fore along with red currant jelly and notions of © Ribena. This is medium-bodied with structure and a fairly smooth and mellow finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside red pizza, gourmet sausage or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: October 8th, 2022

• Cafeyate boasts of some of the highest vineyards above sea level in the world.

92 ✓ Value
Bodega Alta Vista Estate ‘Premium’ Torrontes 2020
Cafeyate, Salta, Argentina $17.95 ((37127) 13.5% alcohol
Honeysuckle floral notes, rose petals and ripe apricot, pineapple and citrus note aromas dominate the nose of this gorgeous Cafeyate Torrontés. It glides over the palate with flavours of pure ambrosia—lime-drizzled honeydew melon, ripe mango, Kacaba melon and lemon curd galore. It finishes balanced, beautiful and bountiful with plenty of palate flavour replays on the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour on its own or with lighter-styled appetizers, now and on to 2025. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Cave de Hoen ‘Méthode Traditionnelle – Pinot Auxerrois – Blanc de Blancs’ Non-Vintage is made in the style of Champagne with the 2nd fermentation having taken place in the bottle(s) you purchase and take with you.

91 ✓ Value
Cave de Hoen ‘Méthode Traditionnelle – Pinot Auxerrois – Blanc de Blancs’ Non-Vintage
AOC Crémant d’Alsace, France $17.95 (416578) 12.5% alcohol
It opens with an alluring nose of honeyed orange and aromas followed by a lovely attack on the palate with oodles of racy zesty flavour—lemongrass, red currant and citrus galore. This is exceptional-value with loads of flavour and serious fine-bead mousse when poured in the glass. It’s light on its feet with a refreshing mouth-watering finish and an excellent aperitif and one with which to welcome friends and guests. At this price, keep a few for unexpected friends and guests, as well. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• The following 2021 Casa Dea Estates Winery Pecorino is awaiting VQA confirmation and paperwork for release of the following wine. Keep an eye on the winery’s website.

93 🇨🇦
Casa Dea Estates Winery Pecorino 2021
Prince Edward County $34.95 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of floral notes, lemon citrus and hints of fennel abound on the nose of this tang-laden gem. It races over the palate on a laser-like streak of gorgeous acidity expressed as passionfruit, lemon-lime citrus notes and saline minerality that persist through the finish and aftertaste, full of tang and lip-smacking good. Give this a go with freshly shucked East-coast oysters dotted with hot sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon and a smidgeon of horseradish. (Vic Harradine)

• The three following Flat Rock Cellars wines will be available at the winery, either online to be delivered to your home, business or restaurant or drive to the winery to pick up a curbside order made previously by phone or online. Follow the winery link to online guidelines for ordering wine online off their website and to the ever-changing provincial COVID-19 guidelines for visiting Niagara wineries including Flat Rock Cellars.

• The following 2020 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted – White Blend’ is the 16th vintage of this gem. It was sourced from 72% riesling/17% gewürztraminer/11% chardonnay, in a 2020 vintage that most called absolutely outstanding. The residual sugar is 15 g/L and the titratable acidity is 7.4 g/L. The Brix level of 20.1 measures the average sugar level in the unfermented grapes of this white blend.
• This is available now at the LCBO as a Vintages Essential wine and also at the winery, participating grocery stores and the 2020 vintage could be the first to be seen with the striking new label. Keep your eyes and your wallet open and pick up a few.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted – White Blend’ 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (1578) 12.0% alcohol
Exotic aromas of tinned lychee in rosewater, chalky minerality and lime cordial abound on the nose intertwined with ripe apricot and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Palate replays include tang-infused lemon juice, lime cordial and apricot. It’s clean, crisp and refreshing on the finish and aftertaste. Perfect for sipping in warm weather and to serve to guests with your choice of tapas. The price-quality balance tips in your favour; pick up a few and serve over the summer and well into fall. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Red Twisted’ was sourced from premium vineyards in the Niagara Peninsula and consists of 72% gamay/25% merlot/3% pinot noir.
• It is available now at the LCBO and the winery. Each grape component was aged separately before being chosen to be in the blend following rigorous tasting trials. This was sourced and harvested when the grapes registered 21.5 ° brix and the wine was bottled August, 2021. The residual sugar in the just-harvested grapes was titrated just before being fermented. The winery suggests seared duck breast or grilled pork tenderloin for perfect pairings with this wine.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Red Twisted’ 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (86918) 12.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of dark cherry/berry fruit with savoury herbs and charred toast waft easily after a couple of gentle swirls. It’s light-on-its-feet with plenty of tang and acidity and a soft underpinning of ripe tannin. The palate’s treated to a mélange flavours with ripe black currant and black raspberry along with tang-infused red pie cherry. There’s persistent purity of fruit and plenty to like. It finishes lengthy, balanced and bountiful. Pour with a thick cut of beef steak, grilled medium-rare. (Vic Harradine

• The following 2021 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Pink Twisted’ was sourced from 56% pinot noir/ 31 % Riesling/13% gewürztraminer sourced from select vineyards in the broader VQA Niagara Peninsula.
• It’s available now at the winery and in LCBO Vintages and has been since Vintages most recent release on July 16, 2022.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Pink Twisted - Rosé’ 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (39974) 11.5% alcohol
Bronze and pink-hued, pure, palate-pleasing ambrosia pours easily emitting fruit-forward aromas with blood orange, strawberry, pear, apple and quince jelly to the fore. It’s tang-infused on the palate expressing itself as pure lemon pastille, Key lime pie and citrus-peel marmalade galore. This is medium-plus bodied with plenty of tang, pizzazz and piquant spice. It lingers on the racy finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. The winery suggests pouring alongside seasonal summer salad, or grilled vegetables, or cheese… or all three. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Moira’ Chardonnay was hand-harvested and sourced from the Moira Vineyard’s north block on October 7th, 2019 at a 21.6 ° Brix average of unfermented grape sugar. It was destemmed then went directly to press into 300 L neutral French oak barrels where the wine completed primary fermentation and partial malolactic conversion. After eight months, 97 cases were bottled unfiltered during July, 2022. This wine is accredited sustainable by ‘Sustainable Winemaking Ontario’.

• Advice from the winery:

Serve at 10 °C with generously flavoured and textured food such as crispy-skinned roast chicken, turkey pot pie or halibut in a buttery sauce or pumpkin ravioli.
Drink now to 2027.

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Moira’ Chardonnay 2019
VQA Beamsville Bench $44.95 12.5% alcohol
In spite of the ‘neutrality’ of the French oak barrels, there are notions of toasty oak on the nose along with apple pie spice of ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s fascinating on the palate with
deft balance and dazzling flavours of lemon pastille, crisp, green apple, lime cordial and plenty of tangy pizzazz juxtaposed with the creamy-smooth mouthfeel and delightful texture and elegance from cork pop to last drop. (Vic Harradine)

• This following was harvested October 15th at the Stouck Family Vineyard as the unfermented grape sugars averaged at 19.1 ° Brix. Grapes were then destemmed, pressed and fermented in a chilled stainless steel tank. After four months in tank it settled and matured and was bottled in March, 2022 without any mention of oak. This wine is accredited sustainable by ‘Sustainable Winemaking Ontario’.

• Advice from the winery:

Chill to near 11 ° C and serve with Pad Thai or grilled fatty fish with a cream sauce or lightly spiced curries or triple cream brie and Gruyère.
Drink now to 2026.

93 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Stouck Family Vineyard’ Viognier 2021
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $24.95 12.5% alcohol
Voluminous, enticing aromas of honeysuckle floral notes, orange peel marmalade and quince jelly set the stage for the surge of fruit-flavours enveloping the palate with ripe apricot, yellow peach and Mirabelle plum to the fore. There’s also good balance playing itself out as persistent purity of fruit to and through the finish and aftertaste as honey-drizzled poached pear, grilled pineapple with hints of coconut and plenty of lemon pie filling. There are palate-fruit flavours of apricot and Mirabelle plum intertwined with plenty of tang and pizzazz. It finishes mouth-wateringly good and somewhat dry—only 1.0 gram/L of residual sugar present. It’s clean and crisp throughout. (Vic Harradine)

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Elevation - Bo-Teek Vineyard’ Cabernet 2020
VQA Niagara Escarpment $28.00 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of fresh red cherry/berry fruit mingle with savoury herbs and mixed spice adorned with notes of minerality and rose petals. It envelops the palate with tannin and full-flavoured ripe berry fruit with black currant and mulberry to the fore. This is just coming in to its own and would benefit from three months of careful cellar time and an aeration/decant of a couple of hours on opening. If you can’t wait, pour now alongside a premium cut of grilled medium-rare beef steak with a generous shake of © Hy’s Seasoned Salt. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery Chardonnay Musqué is accredited as a sustainable wine from ‘Sustainable Winemaking Ontario’ and was sourced from estate vines on the Niagara Escarpment and given the high quality and low price of the finished wine, you might want to pick up a few. It carries itself well with 9.4 residual sugar and enough acidity to match up well.

Upstream in winecurrent.com

Vintages Release: TBD, 2022

• The following 2021 Garciarévalo ‘FINCA TRESOLMOS LIAS’ Verdejo-Vino Blanco wine is certified organic with their accreditation on the back label. It is 100% verdejo harvested at the end of September, 2021 from 30-year-old vines. The Verdejo grape is indigenous to Northern Africa, discovered sometime in the 11th Century and brought to DO Rueda, Spain where it continues to flourish at exceptionally-low price levels.

90 ✓ Value
Garciarévalo ‘FINCA TRESOLMOS LIAS’ Verdejo-Vino Blanco 2021
DO Rueda, Spain $14.95 (218354) 13.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of floral notes, Key lime and Meyer lemon waft easily from the glass with the gentlest of swirls. It washes over the palate with racy flavours of lemon-lime, nectarine and notions of Granny Smith apple adorned with pizzazz and plenty of charm to and through the lip-smacking finish and mouth- watering aftertaste of lime cordial. It’s light on its feet and pours well with lighter-styled fish and seafood; not so well with most grilled red meat or heavy sauces. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Provolo ‘Tenuta Ca’Nove’ Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from 100% cabernet sauvignon that was hand-harvested in mid-September, 2021. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks under controlled conditions for 20 days then was matured for six months in American and French oak casks.

92 ✓ Value
Provolo ‘Tenuta Ca’Nove’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
IGT Veneto, Italy $16.95 13.5% alcohol
Exotic aromas of sandalwood, baking spice and vanilla intertwine with fresh, red cherry /berry flavours. It glides effortlessly on the palate with good balance of acidity, pizzazz and ripe juicy pie cherry juxtaposed with sweet vanilla, ripe, juicy black cherry and ripe black currant persisting with purity of fruit to and through the delightful finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Give this a go with your favourite grilled barbecue meat or lasagna, pasta puttanesca or chili con carne. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Provolo ‘Campotorbian’ was hand-picked from red grapes on vines grown in vineyards at 350 m above sea level—60% corvina/25% rondinella/10% corvinone/and 5% oseleta. All grapes were picked from 12 to 13 year old vineyards at the end of September, 2019. Grapes were macerated and stirred daily then underwent alcoholic fermentation in stainless tank for 15 days controlled from 25 ° to 29 ° C then settled on Amarone skins after adding 10% raisins. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation occurred in mid-April then the wine was matured in 40% tonneaux for 24 months and 60% wooden barrels then settled in corked bottle for 6 months. This wine is accredited as being organic. Please aerate in a decanter for twenty minutes after being removed from a refrigerator before serving.

90 ✓ Value
Provolo ‘Campotorbian’ 2019
DOC Valpolicella, Ripasso, Superiore, Italy $19.95 (13999) 14.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of piquant spice, sandalwood and exotic incense abound preceding notions of crunchy pie cherry and red currant. Palate flavours of nerve and verve passionfruit, intertwine with kinder and softer red currant jelly and juicy black currant. This is medium-bodied with good texture and loads of pizzazz from cork pop to last drop. Pour alongside pizza, paella or fettucine noodles and tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 20 Provolo ‘Gino’ was hand-picked from red grapes on vines in marly- limestone grown in vineyards at 350 m above sea level—60% corvina/20% rondinella/20% rebo. All grapes were picked from vineyards averaging 30-years-old in 2021 with vines trained to being ‘pergola Veronese’. Grapes were macerated and stirred daily then underwent alcoholic fermentation in stainless tank for 10 days controlled from 25 ° to 27 ° C. Then spontaneous malolactic fermentation occurred in mid-April then the wine was matured in 40% concrete and 60% wooden barrels for six months then settled in corked bottles for an additional 3 months. This wine has an accreditation of it being organic and there is a green decal on the back label attesting to this.

91 ✓ Value
Provolo ‘Gino’ 2021
IGT Rosso Veneto, Italy $15.95 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of red cherry/berry fruit, with sprigs of mixed herbs precede a wash of palate flavours including juicy, black cherries, strawberry, mocha and bittersweet chocolate. This is medium-bodied with balance and structure and a lip-smacking finish and a lingering aftertaste that displays replays from the palate. Give this a go with aged cheese or roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Tinazzi ‘CA’ de’ Roccha - Corvé’ was soured from 100% corvina Verona with an average age of thirty years that were hand-harvested from the sunny hillsides of Valpolicella at 125 to 300 M above sea level.. The grapes were pressed and destemmed with maceration and alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tank at controlled temperatures of 20 to 24 ° C for 10 to 15 days, then matured in both 5 and 20 hectolitre French and American barrels from 4 to 8 months.

89 ✓ Value
Tinazzi ‘CA’ de’ Rocchi - Corvé’ 2020
IGP Provincia di Verona, Italy $14.95 (19746) 13.5% alcohol
Ripe fruit, sprigs of herbs and bramble berry jam aromas dominate the nose on this single-sourced-grape wine. There’s good balance and plenty of fruit flavour on the palate with pie cherry, black bramble berry and notions of black currant persisting to and through the lengthy finish and aftertaste. This shows well when paired with grilled or braised beef, backyard hamburgers or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Tinazzi ‘Ca’ de’ Rocchi – Valpolicella was sourced from hand-harvested 80% corvina/15% rondinella/5% molinara in October. For 7/10 days grapes were pressed, destemmed, macerated and fermented. Grapes were gently pressed and fermented at a cool temperature controlled from 20 °C to 24 °C. The wine matured in five hectolitre and 20 hectolitre French and American barrels for four to eight months.

91 ✓ Value
Tinazzi ‘CA’ de’ Rocchi’ - Valpolicella 2018
DOP Valpolicella, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
Light-ruby hued in the glass, aromas of earthy notes, exotic spice and dark cherry/berry fruit are easily coaxed with the gentlest of swirls. A well-paced surge of both red and black cherry is intertwined with red currant jelly and black bramble-berry tart and nicely supported by balanced and lingering finish and aftertaste. This has notions of elegance and plenty of charm from cork pop to last drop. It’s also versatile at the table. Pour with pizza, backyard burgers or spaghetti with Bolognese sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Tinazzi ‘CA’ de’ Rocchi – La Bastia’ was sourced from grapes that were selected from premium vineyards in a hilly area at 150 to 300 M above sea level in Valpolicella—80% corvina/10% corvinone/10% rondinella, grapes were selected and harvested by hand at the start of October 2018, After shriveling via the loss of water, until December that year then before maceration the grapes were pressed, destemmed with fermentation occurring for approximately 21 days, at a controlled temperature of 20 °C to 24 °C. The wine then matured in 5, 20 and 40 hectolitre French and American oak barrels for 12 to 24 months.

93
Tinazzi ‘CA’ de’ Rocchi – La Bastia’ 2018
DOCG Amarone Della Valpolicella, Italy $43.95 16.0% alcohol
Rich and sensuous aromas of spice cake and exotic incense are adorned with a fruit cocktail of blueberry, black plum compote and hints of pie cherry. It blankets the palate with a rich and luscious stream of figs and raisins robed in dark juicy cherries and baking spice. There’s plenty of pizzazz and charm with persistence of purity of fruit palate replays through the delightfully lengthy and delicious finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside a grilled premium cut of beefsteak. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Tinazzi ‘Collezione di Famiglia – Superiore’ was sourced from 90% corvina and corvinone/10% rondinella from hilly vineyards at 150 to 300M above sea level. Pressing and destemming of grapes occurred at a controlled, cool temperature of 22 to 26 °C for 10 days. At the end of December, the Valpolicella Superiore wine passed over Amarone marc—to acquire more body and complexity—hence the ‘Ripasso’ designation. The wine matured in 5 and 20 hectolitre French and American oak barrels for 8 to 12 months.

91 ✓ Value
Tinazzi ‘Collezione di Famiglia – Superiore’ 2019
DOP Valpolicella Ripasso, Italy $20.90 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of exotic incense, sprigs of herbs, prunes and raisins abound along with nutmeg and balsamic notes and juicy black currant and juicy dark Bing cherry on the nose. It blankets the palate with a pure ambrosia of persistent purity of flavours with © Ribena, ripe mulberry, black raspberry and oodles of pizzazz and plenty of charm to the fore. It’s balanced with good mouthfeel and texture and a soft, ripe tannin underpinning. In a word, delicious. Pour alongside osso buco or cassoulet. (Vic Harradine)

93
Tenute Salvaterra Amarone Classico della Valpolicella 2017
DOCG Amarone delle Valpolicella, Italy $47.95 (13999) 16.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of dried fruit, cherries and roasted espresso intertwine with baking spice and notions of vanilla. It spreads over the palate with a surge of flavours riding creamy-smooth mouthfeel and interesting texture along with flavours of dried mushrooms, ripe red berries and cherries to the fore. There is persistent purity of fruit running from the front palate to and through the lip-smacking finish and delightful, lingering aftertaste. You can sip on its own and meditate or pour with wild game bird or your favourite cut of beefsteak. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
Tenute Salvaterra ‘Classico’ 2021
DOC Valpolicella, Italy $19.95 13.0% alcohol
This red blend consists of 60% corvina/10% corvinone/25% rondinella/5% local, autochthonous grapes. Fresh aromas of wild strawberry, black raspberry and juicy Bing cherry robed in charm and plenty of pizzazz. It washes over the palate with nerve, verve and plenty of tang expressed as pie cherry, passionfruit, bitter almond and piquant spice. It settles down on the back palate, finish and aftertaste leaving a more balanced taste to enjoy. Aerate/decant for two hours before pouring alongside smoked and grilled pork back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers from, Lisa Isabelle, Louise Boutin, Dave Isaacs, Vic Harradine who all wish you safe travels and being fully vaccinated now and in the months ahead. Please take care of yourself and assist your good friends and loved ones and those who are not as fortunate as you.

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

July 20, 2022 Newsletter

In this Newsletter:

Reviews from last Saturday’s Vintage release.
Reviews for upcoming Vintages releases.
Save some money—Lots of Limited Time Offers from the LCBO!

Vintages Release, Saturday, July 16, 2022

Dessert Wine

90 ✓ Value
The Lyme Bay ‘Moniack Mead’ Non-Vintage
United Kingdom $19.95 (987263) 14.5% alcohol
The history of mead—made by fermenting honey and water—goes back as far as 8000 years. This particular brand is wildly popular and extremely sought after around the world. In the glass, it has hues of deep golden brown. There are predominant aromas of honey and beeswax with secondary notions of honeydew melon, clover and burnt sugar. It’s full bodied, sweet in the mouth—stops well short of being cloying—with flavours of caramel, honey, and apple. Enjoy by itself after dinner or with home-baked apple pie. (Dave Isaacs)

Sparkling Wine

89
Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé Non-Vintage
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand $22.95 (280172) 12.0% alcohol
This attractive pink-hued sparkler is fashioned from 20% hand-harvested pinot noir and 80% low-yielding chardonnay, fermented in the Charmat, a.k.a. Cuve Close, method. It hustles from the bottle with an energetic mousse and aromas of red berry fruit and spice with hints of brioche. It delivers spirited and lively flavours of citrus and red currant interwoven with sweeter and riper cherry on the lip-smacking aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

90
Oyster Bay Cuvée Brut Sparkling Non-Vintage
Hawke’s Bay $22.95 (163634) 12.5% alcohol
This Charmat méthode sparkling wine is made of 100% chardonnay kept in contact with the lees in a portion of the maturation process. It fills the air with aromas of fresh citrus, lactic notes, bread crumbs and mineral character. A nice froth expands on the palate expressing flavours of pink grapefruit, white peach, crispy crackers and a lingering minerality note turning saline in the medium-long finish. This is medium-bodied with great acidity, pleasant mouthfeel and weight and a no-brainer partner to sea salt chips. (Louise Boutin)

91 ✓ Value
Graham Beck ‘Brut’ Rosé Non-Vintage
WO Western Cape, South Africa $19.95 (175588) 12.0% alcohol
This opens with fragrant aromas—strawberry, watermelon and wisps of raspberry—and plenty of mousse a.k.a. froth or bubbles that form when poured. It’s a delight on the palate with lively flavours of red cherry and red berry fruit persisting throughout. It finishes in a blaze of crisp, lip-smacking freshness. Wonderful on its own as an aperitif or party starter, it has the oomph to stand alongside most appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Rosé Wine

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Rebecca Rosé – Summer Series’ 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $20.15 (227025) 11.7% alcohol
Very aromatic and quite attractive when poured in the glass. Aromas of apricot, blood orange and Ruby Red grapefruit abound on the nose decorated with mineral notes and exotic spice. It envelops the palate with a dry, racy surge of tang-infused pizzazz and acidity presented as passion fruit and sweet red cherry along with wisps of sweet watermelon and a mid-length lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside mixed sushi platter, pan-seared scallops or rotisserie roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

• The following 2018 pinot noir was fashioned by Buena Vista winery California’s first and now oldest premium winery founded in 1857 in Sonoma. The following wine was sourced from six discrete sub-appellations in the AVA North Coast. Fruit was sorted pressed and aged for seven months in a blend of French, Hungarian and American oak barrels.

93
Buena Vista ‘North Coast – Vinicultural Society’ Pinot Noir 2018
Sonoma County, California $24.95 (24112) 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of pie cherry and exotic spice adorned with mocha and cinnamon are released with the gentlest of swirls. It blankets the palate with a tang-infused wash of passionfruit and pie cherry supported by excellent acidity and fruit-forward flavours of bramble berry and juicy black Bing cherry that extend to and through the lingering, deftly balanced finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with coq au vin or osso buco. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Bodegas Salentein ‘Reserva’ Malbec was sourced from estate high-altitude vineyards of 100% malbec fruit. Salentein Chief Winemaker extraordinaire, Jose ‘Pepe’ Galante, is heralded as one of Argentina’s most important winemakers.

94✓ Value
Bodegas Salentein ‘Reserva’ Malbec 2019
Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina $17.95 (640854) 14.0% alcohol
Dark purple-black, it’s virtually opaque in the glass. An alluring nose of exotic incense, spicy herbs and rich, sweet floral notes abound. It captures the palate with a bountiful surge of dazzling flavours with sweet black currant, ripe black plum and black Bing cherry to the fore then balanced with excellent tang and much pizzazz. It struts its stuff through the lengthy lip-smacking finish and aftertaste with elegance and charm. It’s deftly balanced with alluring aromas, fine-grained tannin, excellent acidity, fabulous fruit flavours and a monumentally lengthy finish and aftertaste. What’s not to like? Pour alongside your favourite cut of grilled meat or vegan dish and your favourite veggies. (Vic Harradine)

France: Rosé Wine

• The following Gérard Bertrand ‘cote des roses’ Rosé is a work of art. The base of the bottle has a rose carved out of the glass by a young designer from Ecole Boulle and the winery suggests you handle it as you would a bouquet of roses, especially when presenting to someone before pouring. This wine is also a Vintages Essentials wine, always seasonally available in select stores. This was fashioned by a traditional blend of the Languedoc—grenache/syrah/cinsault. These three grape varieties were harvested and sorted separately with each at the peak of ripeness. At the winery they were destemmed, cooled to 8 °C then transferred to the press where only the first high-quality juice is retained for this wine. It is then fermented over 15 to +30 days followed by a light fining then bottled.

90 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand ‘cote des roses’ Rosé
AOP Languedoc, France $18.95 (373985) 13.5% alcohol
This is an Essentials collection wine, always found in select LCBO stores. Here’s a fresh bouquet of peach, pink grapefruit, watermelon and floral aromas getting along perfectly. Round on the palate without being heavy, you’ll find flavours of strawberry and fresh apricot, a touch of white pepper and orange peel leaving a refreshing aftertaste in the dry and slightly spicy finish. This is a great sipper on its own or try with a Cobb salad for a delicious pairing. (Louise Boutin)

France: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Gérard Bertrand ‘Terroir Fitou – An 990’ Grenache/Carignan was sourced from hand-picked and hand sorted grenache and carignan grapes with carignan fermented by carbonic maceration for 10 to 15 days and the grenache fermented by traditional fermentation and aged 12 months in barrel. The Year 990 is prominent on the front wine label and on the back label it’s explained ‘why’ in French and English.

90 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand ‘Terroir Fitou – An 990’ Grenache/Carignan 2019
AOP Fitou, France $17.95 (403683) 14.5% alcohol
Lively aromas of red cherry berry fruit with piquant spice and sprigs of savoury herbs waft easily from the glass. It washes over the palate with a balanced and bountiful stream of piquant spice and grilled savoury herbs adorned by bramble berry fruit, ripe black cherry and a tang-infused rush of pie cherry. The finish and aftertaste linger and provide a dry, lip-smacking experience. Pour with chorizo and prawn paella or your favourite meat-lovers pizza. The price-quality balance tips in your favour, pick up an armful. (Vic Harradine)

Spain: Red Wine

• The following 2018 Viña Real Crianza Rioja was sourced from 90% tempranillo and a 10% mix of garnacha, mazuelo and graciano with all grown in premium wine areas and vineyards of long-time suppliers from generation upon generation. The finished wine was matured for 13 – 14 months in French and American oak barrels before bottling and release. The harsh weather conditions were fortunately rescued by a warm summer and then more good luck as it became a wet winter and a godsend repellent to the previous drought conditions.

92 ✓ Value
Viña Real Crianza Rioja 2018
DOCa Rioja, Spain $16.95 (657411) 13.5% alcohol
This is surprisingly light in colour, but manages to retain wonderful rich flavours of dark juicy cherry, ripe black currant and persistent purity of fruit flavours throughout. There’s good balance of racy tang, soft ripe tannin and a lengthy finish that adds baking spice and sweet vanilla to the delightful mix. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few and pour with pasta puttanesca or lamb tagine or chorizo and prawn paella. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO Portfolio

In LCBO retail stores now! Not one of the four wines over $10.00! Two of them are under $8.50 each!

88 ✓ Value
Fantini Wines ‘Numero uno’ Primitivo 2020
IGT Puglia, Italy $9.95 (442491) 14.0% alcohol
Primitivo is also known as Zinfandel, as they are the same grape with two popular names with one grown in California—Zinfandel—and the other in Italy—Primitivo. This wafts aromas of dark currants with the gentlest of swirls along with bramble berry and racy pie cherry on the nose of this well-priced red wine. It envelops the palate with tang-infused acidity and pizzazz that persist to and through the finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with meat-lovers pizza with red tomato sauce and mushrooms or try a pasta puttanesca recipe. (Vic Harradine)

88 ✓ Value
Fantini Wines Casale Vecchio ‘Lot Twenty Three – Certified Organic’ 2019
DOC Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Italy $9.95 (612788) 13.5% alcohol
Medium-ruby red in the glass, it wafts aromas easily from the glass with a firm swirl or two—look for aromas of mixed spice and dark, juicy cherry/berry fruit before revealing palate flavours of tang-infused red and black berry fruit with black bramble berry fruit and plenty of racy red cherry along with persistent purity of fruit throughout the tasting experience. It showcases balance, good fruit flavour and plenty of tang and pizzazz. Pour alongside burgers or pasta and meat balls (Vic Harradine)

89 ✓ Value
Adesso Chardonnay d’Italy 2020
Product of Italy $8.45 (572461) 12.0% alcohol
Fresh, crisp aromas of citrussy notes and white flowers dominate the nose. It blankets the palate with mouthfuls of nerve and verve expressed as lemon curd, tang-infused pizzazz and a refreshing finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. There’s plenty to like about this flavourful chardonnay. It’s quite good on its own and matches well with roast chicken, pan-seared fish or grilled calamari rings. (Vic Harradine)

88 ✓ Value
Adesso Merlot d’Italy 2021
Product of Italy $8.45 (572453) 12.0% alcohol
A light-hued ruby in the glass it dishes up mixed herbs and spice aromas on the nose along with red cherry/berry fruit. A gusher of crisp acidity expressed as pie cherry, passionfruit and pomegranate blankets the palate and persists to and through the finish and aftertaste. This needs a bit of time—two to three hours—aerating in a glass decanter with plenty of surface area before serving this wine. It’s a good dance partner with this Cape Malay bobotie recipe. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages: available online only! July 30, 2022 - not available if shopping in LCBO retail stores.

• Fruit was sourced from vineyards at 200m sitting on a limestone bench overlooking the Mediterranean where serious winemaking took hold in 1650, almost four hundred years ago.

92 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand ‘An 1650’ Syrah/Carignan/Mourvèdre 2018
AOP La Clape, France $19.95 (370262) 14.5% alcohol
This dark and brooding red blend is rich and luscious on the nose with aromas expressed as bramble berry jam, ripe black currant, grilled savoury herbs, black licorice and mixed spice. It envelops the palate with a gusher of tang and pizzazz expressed as well-rounded flavours of racy pie cherry, ripe juicy mulberry and plenty of soft, ripe tannin for underpinning and tucking away for four or more years of careful cellaring, if you are interested. Pour with osso buco or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: August 13, 2022

• The following 2021 Gérard Bertrand ‘Perles de Grenache’ Rosé is 100% sourced from the King of grapes in the southern Rhône—grenache. Harvest was decided through multiple organoleptic tastings and observations of seed and grape colour waiting for the optimum moment to begin harvest. The bottle also sports an elegant glass necklace of ‘pearls’ by an artisan French creator, Chantal Thomass.

92 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand ‘Perles de Grenache’ Rosé 2021
IGP Pays D’Oc, France $18.95 (556209) 12.5% alcohol
Delicate aromas of floral notes and berry fruit—raspberry and blueberry—on the nose of this pale-pink, crunchy rosé. A dry, tangy river of cranberry, pomegranate and strawberry race over the palate with wild abandon and plenty of pizzazz. This is crisp and refreshing from glass top to last drop with excellent minerality joining on the finish and persevering through the aftertaste. Pour with a mixed sushi plate, freshly shucked, briny Malpeque oysters or with prawn ceviche. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour.

92 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Short Hills Bench $21.95 (268342) 13.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of mixed spice, ripe golden delicious apple, ripe pear and plenty of citrus capture the essence of this fabulous chardonnay hardly ever fails to satisfy. It bathes the palate with flavours of delicious apple, ripe pear and lemon pie filling adorned with racy tang. This is medium bodied with good mouthfeel and a lingering, juicy finish and aftertaste. It consistently showcases mixed spice, deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and a boatload of charm. Pour with roast chicken or pork cutlets. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Henry of Pelham ‘Family Estate Winery’ Chardonnay is certified by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario. The hand-harvested, whole-cluster pressed grapes for this wine were kept to low yields of 3 tonnes per acre. The wine was barrel-fermented in French oak barriques with a portion in 3000L foudres then barrel-aged for eight months.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (268342) 12.8% alcohol
Fresh crisp and refreshing aromas waft easily from the gentlest of swirls with Granny Smith apple, ripe mango and saline minerality to the fore. This well-paced, well-priced chardonnay showcases crisp tang and pizzazz on the palate expressed as lemon chiffon pie filling adorned by crisp green apple and hints of honeydew melon. There’s good balance and creamy-smooth mouthfeel throughout along with persistent purity of fruit from twist top to the final delectable drop. The mouth-watering finish and crisp refreshing aftertaste lingers and is lip-smacking good. The price-quality balance swings wildly in your favour, pick up a few and pour with rotisserie chicken or your favourite deli board. (Vic Harradine)

• The following fruit-filled, exceptional-value 2021 Henry of Pelham Baco Noir was sourced from 100% Baco Noir from estate vines fermented in stainless steel tanks then matured six plus months in American oak. It was also certified by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario as sustainably grown and fashioned. Grapes were sourced from various vineyards with the oldest being 47-years-old when harvested for this wine and the youngest being five-years-old.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham Baco Noir 2021
VQA Ontario $15.95 (270926) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of charred toast, black licorice and tarry notes are revealed with the slightest of swirls. It blankets the palate with black currant, black ripe juicy cherry and bramble berry jam along with tangy pie cherry and hints of cranberry. Baco Noir is a specialty of Henry of Pelham and is revered internationally and here at home. It’s medium-full bodied with good texture, structure and is fruit-driven. Pour alongside what grilled meat you pull off your barbecue—burgers, steaks, rack of lamb, gourmet sausage; you get the idea. The price-quality ratio is well in your favour… stock up. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Limited Time Special Offers

The first group of white wines offer a cash discount of $2.00 for each bottle purchased from July 18th to August 14th, 2022 followed by 11 red wines of differing discounts up to maximum of $3.00 per bottle purchased from July 18th to August 14th, 2022.

• The following 6 white wines have discounts of $2.00 for each bottle purchased from July 18th to August 14th, 2022 via online purchases or when in an LCBO retail store.

White Wines

87 ✓ Value
Anselmi ‘San Vincenzo’
IGT Veneto, Italy $16.95 (948158) 12.5% alcohol
An über-savoury nose of grassy notes and sprigs of savoury herbs dressed in piquant spice provide segue to this garganega blend. The mid-weight, lightly textured stream of palate-pleasing flavour skips over the palate with flavours of lemongrass, pear and wisps of apple persisting through the mid-length finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own as a pleasant pre-dinner sipper. (Vic Harradine)

88
La Crema Chardonnay
Sonoma Coast $29.95 (962886) 13.5% alcohol
This is an elegant chardonnay with subtle oak aromas on the nose combined with notes of apple and minerality. It’s medium-full bodied with zesty acidity delivering green apple and citrus flavours on the palate. The finish is tangy and underlined with clean minerality. This will evolve nicely in the cellar for a few years, and can be enjoyed with shrimp parmesan pasta. (Dave Isaacs)

89
Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $19.95 (316570) 13.0% alcohol
Lemon-lime citrus, grassy and pit fruit on the nose, this washes across the palate at full sail with tangy, juicy flavours of lemon drop candy, herbaceous notes and lip-smacking key lime pie flavours. Medium bodied with a silky mouth feel and consistently one of the most popular white wines in the Vintages Essentials line-up. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
Robert Oatley ‘Signature Series’ Chardonnay
Margaret River, Western Australia $19.95 (350900) 12.5% alcohol
Powerful aromas of toasty oak and spice on the nose precede a balanced and beautiful flow of sweet-tinged Golden Delicious apple, ripe pear and Mirabelle plum nicely juxtaposed with a glorious rush of racy lemon acidity on the back palate and persisting through the long finish—clean, crisp and refreshing. This is medium-full bodied with good texture and delivers a price-quality balance tipped well in your favour. Pour with roast bird and all the extras. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Tawse ‘Sketches’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (89029)10.5% alcohol
Discrete at first, this off-dry riesling opens-up to beautiful aromas of pear, yellow apple and a whisper of flint. It flows easily on the palate with refreshing flavours of apple, pink grapefruit, ginger and mineral flair adding to the thirst-quenching character of this medium-light-bodied versatile white. Pair with Vietnamese caramelized pork or sip on its own. (Louise Boutin)

Red Wines

• The following 11 red wines have discounts of $1.50 to $3.00 for each bottle purchased from July 18th to August 14th, 2022 via online purchases or at retail stores while shopping.

• The following wine will be discounted $3.00 from the price shown below

• The following wine will be discounted $2.00 from the price shown below

90 ✓ Value
Fabre Montmayou Reserva Malbec
Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza $18.95 (261867) 14.5% alcohol
This popular favourite consistently impresses with its finesse, balance and affordable price tag. Inky colored and staining the glass, it’s also generous on the nose with ripe blackberry, blueberry, raspberry and menthol notes that are repeated on the palate in juicy waves followed by mild vanilla and a tang-infused finish and aftertaste. This is medium-full bodied, nicely structured and enjoyable with a variety of dishes; try eggplant parmigiana. (Louise Boutin)

• The following wine will be discounted $2.00 from the price shown below

86
Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon
Paso Robles, California $23.95 (738823) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of savory herbs and peppery spice mingle with red and black cherry/berry fruit on the nose of this nicely textured, mid-plus weight cabernet. It rolls over the palate with a hedonistic personality showcasing black raspberry jam, sweet vanilla and toasty/oaky notes along with nicely integrated tannin for structure. Pour with grilled steak, barbequed ribs or burgers. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Malivoire Wine Company ‘Farmstead’ Gamay was sourced from Four Mile Creek, Beamsville Bench and Twenty Mile Bench with the average Brix at 22. 94% of grapes were destemmed and crushed with 6% of grapes being left in whole clusters. For alcoholic and malolactic fermentation 87% went to stainless steel while 13% was completed in concrete tank. The new wine was then divided by 2/3rds aged in stainless steel and the remainder sent to pre-loved older oak barrels. It was blended and bottled six months later. This wine is also a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO retail stores.

• The following wine will be discounted $2.00 from the price shown below

94 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Farmstead’ Gamay
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (591313) 12.5% alcohol
Pipe tobacco and peppery piquant spice aromas show first on the nose soon joined by aromas of blueberry, black currant and dark plum, adorned by grilled savoury herbs. The palate’s treated to a medium-plus bodied, textured stream of creamy-smooth ambrosia showcasing deft balance, ripe fruit flavours of red currant, pie cherry and passionfruit juxtaposed with cherry clafoutie and ripe mulberry underpinned by soft, fine-grained tannin and plenty of tang and pizzazz. This is ready to drink now and on to 2024. Pour with grilled lamb loin chops or rye bread sandwiches of Montreal smoked meat. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will be discounted $2.50 from the price shown below

89
Penfolds ‘Koonunga Hill’ Shiraz – Cabernet
South Australia $19.95 (285544) 13.5% alcohol
This is rich and perfumed on the nose releasing dark dusty aromas of cherry, mint and mixed dark berry fruit. On the palate there’s a delicious wave of flavour with mouth-coating succulent Bing cherry mingling with ripe mulberry and lip-smacking tart cranberry. It finishes balanced, lingering and delicious. Leaving little to be desired, it’s full value, and then some. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will be discounted $2.00 from the price shown below

91 ✓ Value
Veramonte ‘Primus – The Blend’
D.O. Apalta, Colchagua, Chile $19.95 (712463) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of charred wood and exotic incense decorated with wild berry fruit abound on the nose of this red blend. It surges over the palate with a gusher of flavour with dark berry fruit, black juicy cherry and mouth-watering tang and acidity persisting to and through the finish and aftertaste underpinned by ripe tannin and decorated with grilled savoury herbs. It’s good to go now and pairs well with hearty beef stew or rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will be discounted $3.00 from the price shown below

88
Rodney Strong ‘Sonoma County’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Sonoma County $27.95 (226944) 13.5% alcohol
Savoury herbs and red berry fruit aromas precede medium-plus bodied, well-textured mouthfuls of black and red cherry/berry flavours adorned with grilled savoury herbs and charred toast. It’s fruit-filled and pours well with grilled rack of lamb or grilled striploin after a one- or two-hour aeration/decant. As California cab goes, this is certainly attractively priced. (Vic Harradine)

The following wine will be discounted $2.00 from the price shown below

91 ✓ Value
San Pedro ‘1865 - Selected Vineyards’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Maipo Valley, Chile $19.95 (37911) 14.5% alcohol
This is quite good value. High-toned aromas of berry fruit, baking spice and black pepper set the table for a smorgasbord of flavour—with red and black fruit—red cherry with juicy black plum and dark bramble berry intertwined with excellent tang and sweet-tinged kirsch liqueur. This is medium-full bodied with good mouthfeel, lengthy finish, balanced and beautiful throughout. Aerate/decant for a couple of hours pouring with roast beef, root veggies around the roast, mushroom gravy and Yorkshire pudding. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will be discounted $2.00 from the price shown below

93 ✓ Value
Bodegas Trapiche ‘Medalla’ Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (547869) 14.5% alcohol
This captures the palate with a tsunami wave of flavour, texture, tang, tannin and mouthfeel. It’s not for the faint of palate. Flavours of ripe dark fruit—cherry, blueberry, and black currant and plum—blanket the palate and persist through the dry finish and aftertaste. There’s good balance between fruit flavour, tang infused acidity and drying tannin. It sports a creamy-smooth mouthfeel with excellent acidity and pizzazz. It’s also vegan-friendly; pour with vegan lentil stew. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will be discounted $1.50 from the price shown below

90 ✓ Value
Domaine Bousquet ‘Virgen – Natural - Ecocert accredited Organic’ Malbec
Tupungato, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina $17.95 (21987) 14.5% alcohol
Beguiling aromas of pipe tobacco, sprigs of savoury herbs and blueberry crumble adorned with peppery spice and sprigs of fresh herbs give way to a full-Monty, teeth-staining river of drying tannin, tang and pizzazz that’s laced with fruit flavours of sweet ripe black plum, juicy ripe Bing cherry, mocha and just-picked blueberry. Aerate/decant for three hours before service and pour alongside a salt-seasoned flank steak. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will be discounted $3.00 from the price shown below

91
Charles Smith ‘Wines of Substance’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington State, U.S.A. $23.95 (419770) 13.5% alcohol
This superb Washington State cabernet sauvignon is opaque in the glass and alive with aromas of mocha, cherry, vanilla and traces of rosemary. It hits the palate full bodied and bursting with juicy, red fruit flavours. The tannin’s prominent but smooth and there’s good balance of acidity drawing out a pleasantly herbaceous finish. Cellar for another 5 years or enjoy now with a juicy, medium-rare steak. There is very good value here. (Dave Isaacs)

• The following wine will be discounted $3.00 from the price shown below

93
Zenato Amarone della Valpolicella Classico
DOCG Amarone della Valpolicella, Italy $52.95 (413179) 16.5% alcohol
Wood smoke, cedar and bramble berry fruit aromas provide segue for a rich, luscious, hi-octane, though deftly balanced and simply delicious stream of ripe fruit and soft tang with dried dark fruit, black berry and dark plum front and centre along with support from spice, earthy notes and notions of ripe red cherry. This is medium-plus weight with good texture, structure and a lingering full-of-flavour finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: TBD, 2022

• The following 2019 Orsumella ‘Rubereto - Rosso Toscano’ Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon is a 50/50 split between the hand-harvested sangiovese and the hand-harvested cabernet sauvignon that were sourced from various vineyards with an average altitude of +300 meters above sea level. Skin maceration lasts 20 days and during that period of time the alcoholic fermentation is also completed at a controlled temperature of 25 °C. Daily pump-overs and delestage are finalized for greater fruit and aroma extraction. The finished wine is introduced to new 10 hL French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation before being allowed to mature in 25 hL barrels for 18 months then is bottled and further aged in the bottle then placed for sale on the wholesale and retail markets.

91 ✓ Value
Orsumella ‘Rubereto - Rosso Toscano’ Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
IGT Toscano Rosso, Italy $19.95 13.5% alcohol
Dark purple/black, almost opaque, this red blend dishes up aromas of mixed spice and chalky mineral notes before releasing a flavourful mouthful of blue and black fruit—dark cherry, blueberry and bramble berry jam—intertwined with piquant spice, vanilla and mixed herbs, This is medium-plus weight with good texture and lingering, ripe, fruit-flavoured aftertaste. It’s approachable now and particularly crowd-friendly. Pour alongside lasagna or osso buco, (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value
Cantine Fratelli Bellini ‘90% sangiovese/10% merlot’ 2020
DOCG Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy $19.95 13.5% alcohol
Highly aromatic on the nose, look for dark cherry fruit, mixed spice and plenty of racy pie cherry and passionfruit that continue on the palate, finish and aftertaste. There are notions of blueberry and strawberry when you get to the finish and aftertaste. This is well-priced and well-paced for a Chianti Classico. Pour with pasta and meatballs or meat-laden red pizza. (Vic Harradine)

88
Cantine Fratelli Bellini ‘Dominante’ 2018
IGT Toscana, Italy $17.95 12.5% alcohol
This red blend is primarily (70%) sangiovese and 10% of each of the following grapes—merlot, cabernet sauvignon and syrah. Aromas of tar, black licorice and dark cherry fruit abound in the nose with even a gentle swirl. Fruit flavours envelop the palate with black raspberry, red pie cherry and plenty of racy pizzazz. Pour alongside a chorizo and prawn paella. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value
Azienda Agricola Poggio Al Vento 2019
IGT Toscano Rosso, Italy $17.95 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of mixed spice, sprigs of herbs, black currant and juicy black plum abound on the nose of this medium weight, nicely balanced Toscano Rosso at a desirable price-quality balance tipped well in your favour. It has persistent purity of fruit captured on the palate and persisting to and through the flavourful finish and delightful aftertaste. Well-paced and well-priced, give this a go with lasagna or pasta carbonara with ham. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Le Lodole matured for 12 months in American oak barriques then eight months in barrel followed by ageing for 12 months in bottle before release.

91 ✓ Value
Cantine Fratelli Bellini ‘Le Lodole - Toscano Rosso’ 2018
IGT Toscano Rosso, Italy $17.95 12.5% alcohol
The red blend in this wine is an interesting 80% sangiovese/ 10% merlot/ 10% cabernet that expresses itself admirably in the alluring aromas—exotic incense, dark cherry/berry fruit and fruit flavours on the palate—black cherry, ripe mulberry and bramble berry pie. This is medium-plus bodied with good texture and creamy-smooth mouthfeel from cork pop to last drop. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up an armful and serve with pasta puttanesca or osso buco. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Antonio Roncolato ‘Ripasso’ was sourced from a red blend of hand-harvested 60% corvina/20% corvinone/20% rondinella grapes in late September, 2019. It macerated and fermented in their skins for 10-15 days then matured in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature. Ripasso translates loosely to passed over as the wine is re-fermented or passed over the skins of Amarone and drinks well now to 2028 when cellared carefully—a.k.a. ‘consistent dark, and cool temperature’.

90 ✓ Value
Antonio Roncolato ‘Ripasso’ 2019
DOC Valpolicella Ripasso, Italy $19.95 14.5% alcohol
Lightly hued ruby in the glass, it offers up aromas of juicy black plum and black cherry preceding a full-fruit flavoured palate wash of structured and medium-plus bodied pure ambrosia with crème de cassis and ripe mulberry to the fore along with exotic spice and grilled savoury herbs. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour, pick up a few, when released. Pour with your favourite hearty stew or try Cassoulet or osso buco (Vic Harradine)

• The following Antonio Roncolato ‘Valpolicella Superiore’ 2020 was sourced from a red blend of 50% corvina/30% corvinone/20% rondinella in October, 2020. It macerated and fermented on its skins for 10-15 days then matured in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature. The wine refines in the bottle for 3-4 months and drinks well now to 2028 when cellared ‘carefully’—a.k.a. ‘consistent dark, and cool temperature’.

89
Antonio Roncolato ‘Valpolicella Superiore’ 2020
DOC Valpolicella Superiore, Italy $18.95 13.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of floral and mineral notes join hands with mixed spice and red cherry/berry fruit. A surge of racy tang and pizzazz asserts on the palate expressing itself as pie cherry and passionfruit underpinned by a bed of soft, ripe tannin. There’s persistent purity of fruit to and through the mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. Give this a go with pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Bodegas Valdelacierva ‘Alfar – Reserva’ was sourced from 100% tempranillo from a vineyard that had many aged tempranillo vines of 50 years and older.

91 ✓ Value
Bodegas Valdelacierva ‘Alfar – Reserva’ 2018
DOCa Rioja, Spain $19.95 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of rose petals, cedar and mixed spices abound on the nose of this smooth and mellow Rioja reserva. It blankets the palate with creamy smooth texture and mouthfeel along with flavours of black plum compote, juicy black cherry, racy passionfruit and bramble berry jam along with persistent purity of fruit to and through the finish and aftertaste. Pour with prawn and chorizo paella or an array of tapas. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Cantina del Giusti ‘Fontedoccia’ was sourced from 90% sangiovese and the other 10% is made up of the following four red grapes—ciliegiolo, colorino, canaiolo nero, mammolo.

90 ✓ Value
Cantina del Giusto ‘Fontedoccia’ 2021
IGT Toscana, Italy $17.95 14.0% alcohol
This offers up aromas of red cherry/berry fruit entwined with savoury herbs and exotic spices. Flavours of pie cherry, black currant and tannin-tinged Ribena envelop the palate and infuse the tang-laden finish and racy aftertaste. It’s medium-bodied with deft balance and plenty of pizzazz from cork pop to last drop. Aerate/decant for two hours before serving with well-seasoned, medium-rare-grilled skirt steak. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Azienda Agricola Valerio Zenato ‘Le Morette - Mandolara’ was sourced from 90% to 100% hand-harvested turbiana grapes. Wine regulations of the region make 90% the least amount of turbiana grapes in a DOC Lugana wine.

92 ✓ Value
Azienda Agricola Valerio Zenato ‘Le Morette - Mandolara’ 2021
DOC Lugana, Italy $19.95 12.5% alcohol
This is lightly yellow hued in the glass with notions of green on the edge. Lifted aromas of Granny Smith apple and ripe Mirabelle plums waft easily from the glass with a gentle swirl or two. It races over the palate with tang-infused flavours of Meyer lemon, Key lime and peel marmalade with a lip-smacking finish of saline and mineral notes and a persistent purity of ripe tropical fruit through the crisp and refreshing aftertaste. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; serve with your favourite pan-seared fish or grilled seafood or roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers and best wishes from winecurrent.com for staying safe and in gaining and keeping good health for you and your loved ones.

Louise Boutin, Lisa Isabelle, Dave Isaacs, Vic Harradine

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

June 14, 2022 Newsletter

Read the press release from Flat Rock Cellars, a popular Ontario winery in Niagara, about coming out top of their class at one tasting and top of the world in a recent Decanter sponsored tasting!

Also reviews from the only-only June 2nd release, the upcoming June 18th release, and many more reviews from future Vintages releases.

Breaking News!

Flat Rock Cellars, a popular Ontario winery in Niagara, came out top of their class at one tasting and top of the world in a recent Decanter sponsored tasting! Read more by clicking here.

June 2nd 2022 had Online-only Exclusive Release—No LCBO in-store release and No Vintages printed release catalogue for that date.

New in Vintages

The following two wines are in LCBO stores now!

• The following 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate’ Chardonnay is an LCBO Vintages Essentials wine always in stock in select LCBO stores. 100% chardonnay fruit was hand-harvested and sourced from three estate vineyards with 85% from their Moira site/8% from their Mottiar site/7% from their Estate Vineyard with an average vine age of 23 years. 44% of the Moira fruit was destemmed while the 56% remaining was pressed in whole clusters along with Mottiar and Estate Vineyard fruit and comprised 45% of the total then was fermented in neutral hogshead barrels with an average age of six-years-old. Juice from the Moira and Estate grapes comprise 55% of total and was directed to stainless steel for primary fermentation without malolactic fermentation. The barrel portion completed both primary fermentation as well as malolactic fermentation and rested on the lees for nine months. The two portions were combined and bottled August 2021. The switched on Malivoire winemaking team certainly captured the dazzling 2020 VQA Beamsville Bench vintage and it shines through the wine; kudos and a doff of the cap to them all.

92 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 (744235) 12.5% alcohol
Expressive aromas with plenty of lemon curd, lime cordial and Granny Smith apple along with wisps of orange peel zest waft easily from the glass. It captures the palate with lip-smacking acidity and a boat load of racy pizzazz presented as poached pear with crisp ginger tones, passionfruit and mineral notes that persist through mid-palate and on to the the crisp and refreshing finish. Pour alongside prawn and chorizo paella or lobster claws and tail dipped in warm, clarified butter. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Wakefield Wines ‘Estate Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon was matured up to 12 months in French oak barrels before final blending and bottling.

92 ✓ Value
Wakefield Wines ‘Estate Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
GIs Clare Valley & Limestone Ridge, South Australia $19.95 (744235) 14.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of exotic spice, rich ripe dark cherry/berry fruit and notions of mocha, cigar box and grilled savoury herbs abound on the nose of this medium-plus bodied nicely textured cabernet sauvignon from 2 premium wine regions in South Australia. It glides over the palate with concentrated flavours of ripe mulberry and black currant adorned with excellent tang and racy pizzazz and underpinned with soft ripe tannin. You’ll find persistent purity of fruit to and through the juicy, lengthy finish and lip-smacking aftertaste along with deft balance with each sip as good, or better, than the previous. The price-quality ratio skews well in your favour; pick up an armful and pour with backyard burgers or grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

New in LCBO stores now

• The following 2020 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Baco Noir is their flagship baco noir and a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO stores. This is also a wine in high demand in other countries, especially Great Britain where the agent just can’t get enough to satisfy consumer demand. If you haven’t tried it, this price is a $3 discount for a limited time only. Pick up a few or more. I know I will.

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve – Family Estate’ Baco Noir 2020
VQA Ontario $24.95 (461699) 13.5% alcohol
Dark and brooding in the glass, it’s dark-purple and opaque. Aromas of pipe tobacco and gamy bits mingle with black cherry/berry fruit on the nose of this expressive French-American hybrid grape. It dazzles the palate with a surge of racy acidity and oodles of pizzazz expressed as racy pie cherry and hints of pomegranate adorned with © Ribena flavours of ripe, juicy black currant and wisps of black plum compote that both persist to and through the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Pick up an armful as the price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pour alongside a meaty rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham Riesling 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (268375) 11.0% alcohol
Sharp aromas of grassy notes and minerality meld well with crisp, refreshing Granny Smith apple preceding a surge of racy tangy palate flavours consisting of nerve, verve and acidity expressed as lemon pie filling, passionfruit and oodles of green apple along with hints of peach and pear. This punches well above the price; pick up a few and pour with freshly shucked briny oysters or your favourite sushi fish platter. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Henry of Pelham Rosé is a Vintages Essentials Wine and is in select LCBO stores now. This wine is accredited by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario as being sustainably grown. It was sourced from a blend of red grapes that were gently moved by gravity then saw only three hours of skin contact before being fermented at cool and controlled temperatures of 14 to 16 ° C in stainless steel tank preserving delicacy and freshness. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few while this price discount of $2 per bottle lasts. I did… and I’m going back for more.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Classic’ Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (613471) 11.5% alcohol
This is a luminous pink-hued rosé with plenty of aromas that waft easily from the gentlest of swirls. It’s also bursting with myriad fruit flavours on the palate—ripe strawberry and racy pie cherry meld beautifully on the front and mid-palate while underpinned by tang infused-citrus with blood orange and ruby red grapefruit providing a delectably dry finish and mouth-watering aftertaste from twist top to last drop. Pour on its own or alongside freshwater rainbow trout fillets that are pan-seared along with a side of garlic and butter-braised asparagus and another side of steamed Jasmine rice. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: June 18th, 2022

Champagne

95
Dom Pérignon Champagne Rosé Brut 2005
AOC Champagne $382.95 (91777) 12.5% alcohol
Add this to your bucket list—name is mystical, the bottle and label command attention and the pour is intriguing. It’s a mature, wild-salmon shaded blend of 60% chardonnay/40% pinot noir offering unique aromas—fresh rose petal, pomegranate, ripe red plum, a hint of marshmallow and flinty minerality that captivate the nose. It hits the glass creating a rich, pinkish mousse that quickly disappears leaving microscopic-bead bubbles hardly perceivable until they tingle the tongue. A profusion of fine and aerial bubbles fill the palate with a delicate froth carrying delectable flavours—ripe stone fruit, crusty baguette, strawberry, tart dried cherry and persistent mineral notes exposing an exceptional and elegant balance of the two grapes. This is delectable on its own with enough structure, complexity and length to make an outstanding companion to langoustine or a red-tuna sashimi feast. (Louise Boutin)

Australia: Red Wine

• The following 2020 Jaraman Shiraz was sourced from estate vineyards in Clare Valley where the winery is located while McLaren Vale’s noted for their peppery Shiraz. The wine was matured in a mixture of coopers’ pre-loved American oak hogsheads—30% in 1 year old and 70% in 2-3 year old for an average of 14 months before being bottled. There were some extreme weather conditions during the growing season, including the lowest temperature recorded in spring and the highest ever temperature in summer, but overall, the vines showed great resilience and wine quality is strong with intense flavours and colours across the classic Clare Valley varieties. In McLaren Vale, the conditions leading up to vintage 2020 were dry. These conditions, in combination with a hail event in November and hot weather in January and February resulted in both an overall reduction in harvest yields along with a corresponding increase in fruit flavour profiles intensity—what you lose on the roundabouts you make up for on the swings.

93
Wakefield ‘Jaraman’ Shiraz 2020
Clare Valley and McLaren Vale, Australia $24.95 (377036) 14.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of dark and juicy fruit—black plum, juicy black Bing cherry and black raspberry—intertwine with espresso roast, floral notes, peppery spice and notions of vanilla. It blankets the palate with boisterous and bountiful palate flavours of peppery spice, blueberry, black bramble berry and ripe black cherry and mulberry. This is full bodied and fully textured with a supple underpinning of ripe tannin along with good mouthfeel and plenty of tangy acidity and oodles of pizzazz along with persistent purity of fruit to and through the finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside your favourite grilled meat including grilled gourmet sausage, medium-rare steak or barbecued backyard burgers. (Vic Harradine)

90
Paringa Shiraz 2019
South Australia $16.95 (632083) 14.9% alcohol
Freshly crushed blackberry and purple plum aromas seep from the glass along with a hint of tar and cracked black peppercorn. Very smooth on the palate and surprisingly light on its feet, this medium-full bodied red matured one year in half-and-half new and used French oak barrels. It offers juicy flavours of ripe blackberry and dark cherry, adding persistent peppery character mid-palate and a bright note of raspberry in the dry finish. Perfect for a barbecue treat with diverse meats of vegetarian alternatives. (Louise Boutin)

New Zealand: White Wine

• The following is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores

93
Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, South Island $28.95 (677450) 12.5% alcohol
There’s absolutely nothing shy or retiring about this sauvignon blanc. An explosion of aromas jump from the glass revealing grassy notes, citrus zest, gooseberry and canned peas followed by a tang-laden gusher of gooseberry jelly, lime zest, flinty minerality and a boatload of snappy tang and pizzazz. It’s medium-bodied with generous mouthfeel and an über-lengthy finish decorated with excellent acidity and wisps of pear and apple. Pour alongside olive-oil-dressed arugula under crumbled chèvre or a heap of mussels steamed in a cup of white wine… this white wine, if you wish. (Vic Harradine)

• The following is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores

New Zealand: Red Wine

• The following is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores

Upstream in Winecurrent

Vintages Release: July 16th, 2022

90 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand ‘Cote des Roses’ Pinot Noir 2020
IGP Pays d’Oc, France $19.95 (20751) 13.0% alcohol
This is a pinot noir that’s deeply ruby hued and aromatic, sporting aromas of bramble berry and juicy black cherry intertwined with earthy and floral notes. It rolls over the palate with good acidity, expressed as pie cherry, passion fruit and cranberry/raspberry, persisting through the tangy finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Give this a go with lamb tagine or roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Quails’ Gate ‘Dry Riesling’ Riesling 2020
VQA Okanagan Valley, B.C. $19.95 (308312) 12.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of floral notes, lemon-lime and a fruit bowl of peach, apricot and Mirabelle plum abound on the nose of this exceptional-value racy riesling. It captures the palate with a creamy-smooth, nicely textured wash of balanced flavours playing nicely together—racy, juicy acidity juxtaposed with ripe orchard fruit and plenty of jazz and pizzazz to and through the persistent mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. Pick up a few and pour on its own or with olive-oil dressing on arugula under a generous sprinkling of feta cheese. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 pinot noir was fashioned by Buena Vista winery California’s first and now oldest premium winery founded in 1857 in Sonoma. The following wine was sourced from six discrete sub-appellations in the AVA North Coast. Fruit was sorted pressed and aged for seven months in a blend of French, Hungarian and American oak barrels.

• The following 2018 Viña Real Crianza Rioja was sourced from 90% tempranillo and a 10% mix of garnacha, mazuelo and graciano with all grown in premium wine areas and vineyards of long time suppliers from generation upon generation. The finished wine was matured for 13 – 14 months in French and American oak barrels before bottling and release. The harsh weather conditions were fortunately rescued by a warm summer and then more good luck as it became a wet winter and a godsend repellent to the previous drought conditions.

92 ✓ Value
Viña Real Crianza Rioja 2018
DOCa Rioja, Spain $16.95 (657411) 13.5% alcohol
This is surprisingly light in colour, but manages to retain wonderful rich flavours of dark juicy cherry, ripe black currant and persistent purity of fruit flavours throughout. There’s good balance of racy tang, soft ripe tannin and a lengthy finish that adds baking spice and sweet vanilla to the delightful mix. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few and pour with pasta puttanesca or lamb tagine or chorizo and prawn paella. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages online only, Release Date: July 30th 2022

89
Gérard Bertrand ‘Cote des Roses’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021
IGP Pays d’Oc, France $15.95 (23906) 12.0% alcohol
Floral and citrus aromas intertwine with chamomile tea and hints of melon. It races over the palate with a linear, laser-like streak of acidity that makes its way to the crisp refreshing finish accompanied by a dry, lemon curd aftertaste as well as hints of saline minerality. Pour this alongside freshly shucked briny Malpec oysters under a few dots of Tabasco sauce ©, a pinch of horseradish and a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Order the following wine by the bottle(s) or case(s) for daily delivery to home, office or restaurant online from this link to Henry of Pelham – There is free delivery on 12 or more bottles in Ontario. Select ‘12 Bottles+’ at check out and allow up to 10 days for delivery or, order online then pick up bottle(s) or case(s) from the winery at 1469 Pelham Rd, St. Catharines ON. Here’s a map.

• The following 2020 Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Padre’ Cabernet Merlot was 100% barrel-aged for 16 months in a mixture of new and older pre-loved oak with 60% French oak barrels and 40% American oak barrels. This reflects the dazzling VQA 2020 Vintage that the alert wine-making team at Henry of Pelham has captured in this wine. It also bears the exceptional-value icon pointing to a multiple buy.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Padré’ Cabernet-Merlot 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 13.3% alcohol
Divine aromas rise from the glass—incense, red cherry, black currant, and wisps of cedar cigar box. It continues to be sourced from the holy trinity of the Bordeaux blend—cabernet franc/cabernet sauvignon/merlot. It rolls over the palate nicely balanced with a mouthful of flavour—ripe black currant and raspberry robed in excellent tang and acidity and wisps of dark bittersweet chocolate. It’s medium-weight and satin smooth throughout the tasting and it’s so much more than the psalm of its parts. Pick up a case and rejoice over the next 12 months or so alongside your favourite backyard burgers, grilled gourmet sausage or your favourite pizza. (Vic Harradine)

• Order the following wines by the case for daily home or office directly online from Kacaba Vineyards with FREE shipping in Ontario on orders of six bottles or more, by phone at 1 866 522-2228 or 1 905 562-5625, or pick up a bottle or case from the winery (curbside pick-up or shop in the boutique it’s open 10 am to 5 pm seven days a week) at 3550 King Street in Vineland ON. For various wine shopping options during COVID-19, click here.

• The following Vintage-dated 2019 ‘Irresistible’ Sparkling Rosé was sourced from the same grape varieties most popular in making French Champagne – 66% chardonnay/20% pinot noir/14% pinot meunier with all hand-harvested. This was fashioned in méthode Charmat with the 2nd alcoholic fermentation made in a special stainless steel tank before being bottled and sealed with a cork and wire cage. The base for this wine was gently pressed to avoid skin contact. After settling, the grape varieties were fermented in separate batches then blended as one into stainless steel. The base then aged for 22 months in stainless then was transferred to a special Charmat tank in October 2020 for its 2nd alcoholic fermentation under pressure. After 2 months of ageing on its lees, the now sparkling wine was racked, filtered and bottled December 2021. This wine and the other Kacaba wines that follows, owe a hearty thanks and doff of the cap to winemaker Vadim Chelekhov and his marvelous winemaking team.

93 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Irresistible – Joanne’s Blend’ Sparkling Rosé 2019
VQA Ontario $30.15 12.2% alcohol
A good mousse, aka bubbles, when poured in the glass, there is also a seemingly endless steady-stream of fine-bead bubbles winding their way from the bottom of the glass to the top of the wine in the glass. This is fully flavoured on the palate with pie cherry, red currant and oodles of acidity and pizzazz intertwined with ripe black plum compote and notions of kirsch liqueur. It’s medium-plus bodied with good mouthfeel, persistent purity of fruit and good balance. The price is right, you could pick up a few and keep for friends who drop in unexpectedly. Serve as an aperitif or match with appetizers such as smoked salmon, oysters Kirkpatrick or crab cakes, (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Rebecca Rosé – Summer Series’ was sourced from gamay fruit as it has for many previous vintages. 2021 was another wonderful summer of warmth and just enough rain without serious weather disturbances. Fruit was picked in the cool early morning in mid-October and brought to the winery to cold soak for 24 hours before being gently pressed; which resulted in an attractive pink-hued rosé. It was fermented using a special commercial yeast the cold and long fermentation that followed amplified and concentrated flavours captured during press. It was also cold-stored for a lengthy time avoiding malolactic fermentation before being bottled in April 2022.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Rebecca Rosé – Summer Series’ 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $20.15 (227025) 11.7% alcohol
Very aromatic and quite attractive when poured in the glass. Aromas of apricot, blood orange and Ruby Red grapefruit abound on the nose decorated with mineral notes and exotic spice. It envelops the palate with a dry, racy surge of tang-infused pizzazz and acidity presented as passion fruit and sweet red cherry along with wisps of sweet watermelon and a mid-length lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Sip on its own or pour alongside mixed sushi platter, pan-seared scallops or rotisserie roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

• In the following 2021 Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Susan’s – Summer Series’ Sauvignon Blanc, once again the excellent 2021 Vintage really shines throughout this lovely, light-on-its-feet wine. Picked at the peak of phenolic ripeness and before the rains came, the fruit for this wine underwent 24 hours of cold soaking then the wine-making team pressed and allowed the juice to settle naturally by gravity at very cold temperatures. After a cold and slow fermentation the wine was allowed to winter in stainless steel tanks achieving cold stability naturally. There was no malolactic fermentation with this wine.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Susan’s – Summer Series’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $20.15 10.5% alcohol.
Aromas of savoury herbs, mango and hints of mint jelly, Granny Smith apple and citrussy notes waft easily from the glass with the gentlest of swirls. It dazzles the palate with a laser-like streak of grapefruit, lemon curd and saline minerality that carry through the mid-length finish and aftertaste. This is clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to final drop. Pour alongside briny freshly shucked, oysters dotted with hot sauce, a pinch of horseradish and a squeeze of fresh lemon wedge. (Vic Harradine)

• Fruit for the following 2021 Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Reserve – Premium Series’ Riesling was sourced from vines growing on the footsteps of the Niagara Escarpment. Taking advantage of the excellent 2021 vintage, the grapes were allowed to hang on vines into October. Grapes were harvested very early in the cool morning then quickly and gently pressed at the winery. Juice was settled at very cold temperatures for over a week prior to racking. Juice was then allowed to warm for fermentation which was conducted at low temperatures. The fermentation process was stopped allowing for residual sugar in the wine. Over the winter the wine continued to develop floral and fruit flavours. The wine was then bottled in April 2022.

93 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards and Winery ‘Reserve – Premium Series’ Riesling 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.15 11.0% alcohol
Aromas of white flowers, green apple, and ripe honeydew melon can be coaxed from the glass with some vigorous swirls. This dazzles the palate with creamy-smooth mouthfeel and plenty of pizzazz in this off-dry, flavourful riesling. There’s a myriad of palate flavours with lemon pastille, crisp green apple, and sweet white peach to the fore. This is nicely balanced and showcases persistent purity of fruit and a lingering, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Short term and careful cellaring – up to five years – should be handsomely rewarded. Pour with the usual suspects; freshly shucked oysters, grilled calamari or spicy Asian food like pad Thai. (Vic Harradine)

• Access the Locust Lane Winery website by clicking on the link below where you will find out how to purchase this wine that reflects a dazzling 2020 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore vintage and the winery promises free shipping to your home, office or licensed restaurant. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour making this an exceptional-value wine.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Locust Lane Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2020
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore $16.95 12.5% alcohol
Savoury herbs, grassy notes and plenty of lemon citrussy aromas can be coaxed from this excellent sauvignon blanc. It blankets the palate with a tang-infused river of lemon curd, passion fruit and wisps of gooseberry with a creamy smooth mouthfeel intertwined with persistent purity of fruit, deft balance and a lengthy finish and aftertaste. The price-quality balance swings well in your favour, pick up an armful directly from the winery, see above link to the winery. Pour alongside pan-seared scallops, grilled calamari rings or East-Coast pan-seared salmon. (Vic Harradine)

• For daily home, office or restaurant delivery for the following wine is sold at the winery only, order online from this link Malivoire Wine Company with FREE shipping on orders of $99 or more, or $20 credited next business day towards delivery outside Ontario and Québec. Phone 905-563-9253 Monday to Friday 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays and noon to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday for information and for locals to access curbside pickup instructions. Their retail shop is now open - 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays, and noon to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. There are guidelines due to COVID-19 that change often, best to phone or email first (the website has a space to type and is linked to their email)

• The following 2021 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Moira’ Rosé is available only at the winery. It is sourced from 100% hand-harvested pinot noir from the Estate vineyard of the original Moira Vineyard with unfermented grape sugar coming in at an average of 20.6 ° Brix. Whole-cluster grapes were gently pressed for minimal contact between juice and skins leading to the lightly hued finished wine. After briefly chilling in a low-profile stainless steel tank for optimum lees contact it was transferred to a standard steel tank. The finished wine was bottled in January 2022.

92 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Moira’ Rosé 2021
VQA Beamsville Bench $24.95 12.5% alcohol
Deep, rich and layered aromas deliver a smorgasbord of fruit with strawberry, rhubarb and watermelon to the fore. It awakens the palate with a racy streak of tang-laden passionfruit, lemon curd and pomegranate that join with ripe flavours of wild strawberry, pie cherry and grilled savory herbs. It finishes in a lingering aftertaste with great élan and elegance that fleshes out ripe fruit and racy tang. Give this a go with a pan-seared fillet of Atlantic salmon under a squeeze of fresh lemon when served. (Vic Harradine)

• Use this link Rockway Vineyards to search their winery website for the following and other wines available to you as they will take your order online and deliver to your home, business office or licensed restaurant. They advertise FREE standard shipping for orders of at least $50.00. You can also phone them as they are open daily 11 am to 6 pm - 905-641-5771 or you can email them - <wine@rockway.net data-preserve-html-node="true">

• Only estate-grown, 17-year-old Chardonnay grapes were harvested for the following 2020 Rockway Vineyards ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay. Fruit was gently pressed then the juice was cold settled in tank before going to barrel for alcoholic fermentation and malolactic fermentation before being aged for nine months in 2nd and 3rd fill French oak barrel. Once matured the wine was racked back into tank where it was stabilized, and filtered before bottling. It reflects the dazzling 2020 vintage and captures deft nuances from the VQA Twenty Mile Bench. Kudos and doff of the cap to the Rockway Vineyards wine-making team for this wine and all those that follow.

94 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $25.00 14.2% alcohol
Appealing aromas of lemon citrus, crisp Granny Smith apple, ripe pear, baking spice and rising dough abound on the nose of this medium-plus bodied chardonnay that sports satin-smooth mouthfeel and fruit-forward flavours of juicy lemon and mixed spice on the palate and through the finish and aftertaste decorated with saline minerality and plenty of pizzazz. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Rockway Vineyards Gewürztraminer was sourced from a small-ish estate block that is a little less than one acre. The hand-picked fruit was gently whole-cluster pressed for optimum flavours. Juice was cold settled and fermented in stainless steel tanks. The alcoholic fermentation was stopped just before it would have naturally stopped to achieve perfect balance between the residual sugar and the excellent acidity.

93 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards Gewürztraminer 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $25.00 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of rosewater, exotic spice and tree fruit—Mirabelle plum and ripe apricot—precede a textbook mouthful of gewürztraminer with palate flavours of tinned lychee preserved in rosewater, sweet vanilla and excellent balancing acidity that persists to and through the finish and aftertaste. Give this barely off-dry beauty a go with a special Sunday, family-dinner of baked bone-in ham adorned with cloves inserted in the outside of the ham along with a maple-syrup glaze… a match made in heaven? (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Rockway Vineyards Gamay was sourced from a vineyard neighbouring their estate vineyards. Fruit was destemmed and crushed into tank for fermentation then left to macerate for a total of 25 days then gently pressed and transferred to 15% new French oak and 85% to neutral French oak barriques. Malolactic conversion occurred in early months of barrel maturation. The wine was filtered before being bottled. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards Gamay Noir 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.00 12.0% alcohol
Fruit-forward aromas of fresh berry fruit are intertwined with nuances of gamey notes. The palate’s enveloped in a replay of simple berry note aromas with black raspberry and black currant to the fore along with wisps of mixed spice, ripe tannin and oaky notes. This is light on its feet with excellent balance of racy tang, loads of succulent fruit flavours and a soft, ripe barely perceptible tannin underpinning. Drink alongside your favourite pan-seared fish under a squeeze of fresh lemon or with Montreal smoked meat sliced up and served with boiled cabbage that’s finished in a fry-pan with fine-diced cooking onion. Aerate/decant a couple of hours before serving. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2017 Rockway Vineyards ‘Small Lot’ Syrah was destemmed, crushed then put into stainless steel tanks where it was cold-soaked and fermented. It was pumped over twice daily for 19 days. After fermentation it was pressed off into tank and transferred to 25% new French oak barrels and the balance to neutral oak. It matured 18 months before being racked into stainless steel tanks for filtration then bottling.

93 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Small Lot’ Syrah 2017
VQA Niagara Peninsula $27.00 13.0% alcohol
This is lightly hued ruby in the glass with distinctive aromas of sprigs of wild herbs and freshly ground black pepper alongside dark cherry/berry fruit and kirsch liqueur. It caresses the palate with satin-smooth texture, creamy mouthfeel and oodles of ripe fruit flavour—dark cherry and bramble berry—coupled with balancing acidity and soft, ripe tannin. There’s persistent purity of fruit throughout and pours well with grilled rack of lamb, roast potatoes and a sprig of mint. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Rockway Vineyards ‘Staterra’ red blend was sourced from various select premium vineyards in the VQA Niagara Peninsula appellation—the 50% merlot was selected from a vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake; the 30.6% cabernet franc and 19.4% syrah was sourced from Rockway estate vineyards. The grapes were harvested at maximum ripeness, crushed and destemmed into tank for fermentation. The wine was macerated for 28 days with pump-overs before being sent to barrel for maturation. The wine matured for 18 months with 25% in new French oak and 75% in neutral oak.
After blending, the wines were transferred out of barrel, filtered and bottled.

93 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards ‘Staterra’ 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $25.00 13.5% alcohol
Grilled savory herbs, black cherry and toasted oaky notes join with bramble berry, black currant and mocha on the nose of this medium-bodied, structured and still-evolving red blend. It’s full- Monty flavoured with deft balance of fruit flavours, delightful tangy acidity and a perceptible and acceptable ripe tannin underpinning. This is drinking well now and should improve over the next few years, Give it a try with boeuf Bourguignon or osso buco. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Rockway Vineyards Cabernet – Shiraz was sourced from 50.0% cabernet franc and 37.5% syrah with both estate-grown along with 12.5% cabernet sauvignon from a neighbouring vineyard. The grapes were harvested at different times to capture full ripeness of the fruit flavours and tannins and to balance with the acidity. Grapes were destemmed and crushed into tank for fermentation then macerated for 28 days with daily pump-overs. The wine was then pressed off and into tank for settling. It then matured for 18 months in 25% new French oak with the remaining spending its time in neutral oak barrels. All the wine underwent 100% malolactic fermentation while in barrel. The wine was filtered before being bottled.

92 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards Cabernet - Shiraz 2018
VQA Niagara Peninsula $25.00 13.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of cherry/berry fruit and cassis waft easily from the glass with the gentlest of swirls. The racy tang envelops the palate along with grippy tannin infusing the black currant and juicy black cherry fruit flavour. It’s full of pizzazz and bracing acidity with a lengthy finish and aftertaste. Aerate/decant three hours before serving with grilled steak seasoned generously with Hy’s seasoned steak salt or tuck away for a year or so of careful cellaring. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Cabernet Franc was sourced from an estate vineyard and harvested in late October. Fruit was destemmed and crushed into tank for alcoholic fermentation with once or twice a day pump-overs. The wine macerated for a total of 25 days prior to being gently pressed then transferred to 20% new French oak with the balance in neutral French oak barriques. Malolactic fermentation occurred during early months of barrel ageing and was then filtered before bottling and wine release.

94 🇨🇦
Rockway Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2018
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $28.00 13.5% alcohol
Mixed spice and dark cherry/berry aromas abound on the nose of this gem of a cabernet franc. It envelops the palate with a surge of persistent purity of fruit and concentrated, pure ambrosia with a river of blueberry, black bramble berry and black, juicy Bing cherry robed in excellent acidity, deft balance and an underpinning of delightful tannin that persists to and through the juicy finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. Pour alongside chorizo-stuffed Poblano peppers. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in Winecurrent

Vintages Release: TBD 2022

90 ✓ Value
Domaine André Brunel ‘Est-Ouest’ 2019
AOC Côtes du Rhône, France $15.95 14.5% alcohol
This red blend of mostly grenache with cinsault and syrah is hand-harvested and aged in vats after the fermentation phase. The nose is attractive with very focused aromas of ripe cherry and black plum, a hint of gamey character and graphite minerality. On the palate, an initial silky soft stream of red cherry and cassis flavours grabs along the way fine-grained chewy tannins, earthy and peppery notes and carries this profile into the dry and pleasant savoury finish. This is a medium-full-bodied food companion particularly delicious with game meats or mushroom risotto. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
André Brunel ‘Le tracteur de Brunel’ 2021
Vin de France $14.95 14.0% alcohol
Grenache, syrah and merlot mingle perfectly in this young blend vinified in stainless steel tanks and offering fresh aromas of red cherry, blackberry, raspberry plus white mushroom and dusty quality. Tart red fruit flavours take the lead on the palate adding spiciness and über fine tannins before closing with a dry slightly peppery finish. This is an exceptional-red, surprisingly feeling light on its feet, that will be perfect for a week night spaghetti with meatballs or a simple charcuterie and terrine board. (Louise Boutin)

91
André Brunel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée 2020
AOP Châteauneuf du Pape, France $47.95 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of smoky black fruit with licorice and floral notes in the background, this medium-full bodied blend—70% grenache and equal parts of mourvèdre and syrah offers a silky textured palate with plenty of ripe blackberry, cassis and plum flavours. The tannins are polished yet noticeable along with the beautiful acidity and warming effect in the fruity-mineral finish with a peppery aftertaste. Pair with braised beef short-ribs or sausage stuffed portobello mushroom on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

89 ✓ Value
Domaine Fond Croze ‘Confidence’ 2021
AOP Côtes du Rhône $14.95 (20951) 14.5% alcohol
A beautiful medium-purple shaded robe introduces very discrete aromas of blueberry, blackberry and black peppercorn. The palate welcomes a silky textured wash of mixed crushed berries dusted with black pepper before showing bright acidity and earthy notes in the finish and aftertaste. Pour this medium-full bodied red alongside lamb burgers or green lentil and root vegetable stew after one hour of aeration/decant (Louise Boutin)

92
Domaine Fond Croze Rasteau Vieilles Vignes 2020
AOP Rasteau, France $24.95 15.5% alcohol
This is a high-octane, hand-harvested red blend—grenache-syrah-mourvèdre—from old vines matured in 500L French barrels for 12 months. The nose is profound with ripe dark fruit aromas at the fore followed with a wonderful wave of black licorice emerging as you dig deeper in the glass. On the palate, you’ll find a velvety and juicy flow of berry compote combined with peppery notes and zesty acidity, all framed in polished yet slightly grippy tannins and a comforting warm spicy generous finish. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside braised lamb shanks or grilled eggplant with tahini sauce and mint. (Louise Boutin)

89
Artisans Partisans ‘Alice 1820’ 2021
AOP Corbières $16.95 13.0% alcoholv]
This bright purple shaded, organic blend of syrah, carignan and grenache screams youthful aromas of crushed mixed berries, black plums, orange zest with yeasty notes. No wood contact in the fermentation nor maturation process, instead six months of ageing on lees in stainless steal tanks. It flows easily on the palate with fresh flavours of blackberry, raspberry, dark cherry and a slight peppery note complementing the picture. Tannins are moderate and welcomed in the overall profile. This medium-bodied red is an excellent companion to mixed grilled artisan sausages along with gourmet mustards. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Artisans Partisans ‘Capucine premier rendez-vous’ 2019
Vin de France $15.95 14.0% alcohol
Fragrant blueberry compote aromas lead the way in this blend of equal parts syrah, grenache and carignan, followed with ripe black cherry, dark chocolate and a nice whisper of lavender. This is a medium-full-bodied red, treating the palate to a juicy river of fresh flavours aligned with the aromas, all wrapped in smooth tannins and bright acidity offering endless possibility at the table. Try red sauce pizza with bell pepper and black olives, charcuterie board, duck confit, etc. (Louise Boutin)

91 ✓ Value
Cave de la Comtadine Côtes du Rhône 2020
AOP Côtes du Rhône $16.95 14.1% alcohol
This red blend of mostly grenache with syrah opens up with beautiful aromas of dark plum, blackberry, cola and a fresh peony-like floral note. Light and soft as a feather at first on the palate, with flavours of blackberry, cherry and cassis, it is quickly caught-up with a warm and peppery effect trailing in the slightly chewy and pleasant spicy finish. This intriguing bold red wrapped in a velvet blanket will be perfect alongside marinated juicy flank steak on the grill or summer ratatouille. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2021 Cave Coopérative des Grand Vins de Pazac ‘Le Pigeonnier’ Red was sourced from 50% syrah/20% carignan/20% marselan/10% grenache that were matured in vat for 6 months before bottling.

92 ✓ Value
Cave Coopérative des Grand Vins de Pazac ‘Le Pigeonnier’ Red 2021
AOP Costiéres de Nîms, Rhône Valley, France $14.95 (20950) 14.5% alcohol
This is smooth and mellow on the nose expressed as beguiling aromas of soft rose petals, ripe juicy dark berry fruit and notions of crème de cassis. It caresses the palate with soft ripe tannin and well balanced tang and acidity and generous pizzazz delivered with a boatload of charm, persistent purity of fruit and mid-length finish and aftertaste that adds to the satisfying experience of tasting this wine, either on its own or with your favourite grilled meat dishes like rack of lamb or backyard burgers. Enjoy. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Famille Jaume ‘Domaine Courtois - La Source’ was hand-harvested from 80% grenache/20% syrah from vines averaging ten-years-old. Domaine Courtois is a family-owned estate going back several generations. This had temperature-controlled vatting for five to eight days at a cool 25 °C before bottling in early April, 2022.

90 ✓ Value
Famille Jaume ‘Domaine Courtois - La Source’ 2021
AOC Côtes-du-Rhône, France $15.95 (526640) 13.5% alcohol
Delicate aromas of floral and exotic spice notes mingle with black currant and strawberry on the nose. It coats the palate with mild flavours of racy red cherry/berry fruit along hints of black juicy Bing cherry and notions of © Ribena and plenty of racy acidity. It’s a simple wine with few rough edges and is easily sipped on its own or poured with your favourite appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Famille Jaume ‘Domaine Courtois – Saint Pierre’ was hand-picked from a vineyard sporting vines that are some 35 years-old growing in chalky-clay soil. Three different premium grape varieties—50% syrah/40% grenache and 10% mourvèdre make up the final blend. Wine was aged in vats for 12 to 20 days in oak barrels with 1/3rd in new barrels/1/3rd in one-year old barrels and the final 1/3rd in two-year-old barrels. It was then stored for 12 months in a cool cellar. The varieties were kept separate when ageing then blended as is shown in the above percentages before bottling. The price-quality ratio skews well in your favour; you may want to pick up a few.

93 ✓ Value
Famille Jaume ‘Domaine Courtois – Saint Pierre’ 2018
AOC Vinsobres, Côtes-du-Rhône, France $22.95 14.0% alcohol
There are alluring aromas of sweet vanilla, baking spice and rich dark cherry/berry fruit intertwined with grilled savory herbs and hints of toasty notes on the expressive nose of this fruit-forward gem. It envelops the palate with dazzling tang and pizzazz expressed as juicy black cherry and luscious black bramble berry along with full-Monty texture and creamy smooth mouthfeel from cork pop to last drop on the lengthy and deftly balanced fruit flavours, soft, ripe tannin underpinning and plenty of tang-infused acidity. It’s a brawny red wine wrapped in a velvet glove. Pour with a premium cut of salted and rare-grilled beef steak or rare-grilled venison steak. (Vic Harradine)

• All Piekenierskloof Wine Company wines are certified by the Wine and Spirit Board – as Integrity and Sustainable. The following 2021 Piekenierskloof Wine Company Chardonnay was sourced from a low-yielding vineyard at 600 meters above sea level on the iconic Piekenierskloof plateau. The 100% chardonnay vines are meticulously groomed and managed to produce low yields. Fruit was hand-harvested in late February, 2021 and brought to the winery to be barrel-fermented by select yeasts at a cool, controlled temperature of 15° C. It then matured for 6 months in 500 L French oak barrels before being bottled.

93 ✓ Value

Piekenierskloof Wine Company Chardonnay 2021

Wine of Origin Piekenierskloof, Western Cape, South Africa $18.95 12.5% alcohol

This appears golden yellow in the glass and releases aromas of baking spice, Granny Smith apple and toasty oak. It’s pure ambrosia on the palate with a deftly balanced river of flavour with apple pie spice and lemon curd intertwined with oodles of racy tang and pizzazz. It’s creamy-smooth and nicely textured from cork pop to last drop. Give this a go on its own or pour with crown roast of pork, roast chicken or a festive roast turkey with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

• All Piekenierskloof Wine Company wines are certified by the Wine and Spirit Board – as Integrity and Sustainable. The following 2020 Piekenierskloof Wine Company Shiraz was sourced from low-yielding, dry-land, bush vines that are grown in sandy-loam soils on the iconic Piekenierskloof plateau. The yields are kept below 5 tons per hectare. Fruit was hand-harvested during the second week of February, 2020 then cold-soaked for 24 hours followed by fermentation initiated by select yeasts and kept under 26 °C. Grapes were punched down and pumped over in 3000L foudre while malolactic conversion and maturation of 14 months also took place in the foudre.

91 ✓ Value

Piekenierskloof Wine Company Shiraz 2020

Wine of Origin Piekenierskloof, Western Cape, South Africa $18.95 14.5% alcohol

Beguiling aromas of black licorice, savoury herbs and dark, juicy cherry/berry fruit dominate the nose. It’s nicely textured, well balanced and smooth as satin on the palate while dishing up myriad of fruit flavours on the palate with black currant, black juicy Bing cherry and oodles of racy tang to the fore. This showcases persistent purity of fruit, good balance of fruit flavours, soft tannin and acidity. It finishes lengthy and lingering. Pour alongside grilled rack of lamb, curried lamb tagine or your favourite premium cut of beef done on the barbecue. (Vic Harradine)

• All Piekenierskloof Wine Company wines are certified by the Wine and Spirit Board – as Integrity and Sustainable. The following 2020 Piekenierskloof Wine Company Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from vineyards in the iconic Piekenierskloof plateau during the 2nd week in March, 2020. Grapes were hand-picked and cold-soaked for 24 hours while fermentation was initiated with select yeast strains and is kept under 26 °C. During fermentation the grape cap is punched down 4 times per day for maximum extraction, then pressed off to barrel for malolactic fermentation. The wine is racked for maturation of 14 months in 30% new and 70% second-fill and older, pre-loved 225 L French oak barriques.

92 ✓ Value

Piekenierskloof Wine Company Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Wine of Origin Piekenierskloof, Western Cape, South Africa $18.95 14.5% alcohol

Aromas of cedar cigar box, dark bittersweet chocolate and an array of cherry/berry fruit dominate the nose. It blankets the palate with a full-Monty wash of racy, red pie cherry, black bramble berry and hints of black juicy plum along with firm texture and underpinning of tannin along with savoury herbs and lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour with rare-grilled flank steak or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

• All Piekenierskloof Wine Company wines are certified by the Wine and Spirit Board – as Integrity and Sustainable. Until a decade or so ago Chenin Blanc in South Africa was known widely as Steen and was its signature white grape. It’s still very popular in South Africa and is now widely exported as a wine to most wine-loving countries giving the Loire Valley tough competition for taste, flavour, mouthfeel and drinking enjoyment, as well as a thorough drubbing when it comes down to excellent price-quality value. The following 2022 Piekenierskloof Wine Company ‘Six Hats’ Chenin Blanc with a 92 point rating is a perfect example at $14.95 for a 750 mL bottle.

92 ✓ Value

Piekenierskloof Wine Company ‘Six Hats’ Chenin Blanc 2022

Wine of Origin Western Cape, South Africa $14.95 12.5% alcohol

Intriguing floral notes, pineapple and honey aromas waft from the glass with the gentlest of swirls accompanied by quince jelly, white peach and lemon pastille. It delivers mouthful after mouthful of pure ambrosia with firm texture, excellent creamy-smooth mouthfeel and persistent purity of fruit—honey-drizzled tropical fruit decorated by spicy notes and racy tang-infused finish and aftertaste. A gorgeous wine to sip and savour or to match with spicy Asian cuisine or a plate of your favourite sushi or a plate of freshly shucked briny Malpeque oysters. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour… if you get a chance, pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

• All Piekenierskloof Wine Company wines are certified by the Wine and Spirit Board – as Integrity and Sustainable. 100% Chardonnay fruit was sourced for the following 2022 Piekenierskloof Wine Company ‘Six Hats’ Chardonnay, and sourced only from Fairtrade certified vineyards primarily in the Swartland region. Grapes were hand-harvested very early morning allowing it to retain its natural flavour. There was no oak used with this wine. Only short term cellaring for two to three years is recommended by the winery. They also recommend poultry dishes, perhaps a supermarket or Costco rotisserie chicken.

88 ✓ Value

Piekenierskloof Wine Company ‘Six Hats’ Chardonnay 2022

Wine of Origin Western Cape, South Africa $14.95 12.5% alcohol

Delicate aromas of citrus, crisp green apple and hints of minerality can be coaxed after a few brisk swirls. It’s bristling with tang and oodles of pizzazz on the palate and persists to and through the crisp, refreshing finish and the lip-smacking aftertaste along with lemon curd and hints of lime cordial. This is the perfect accompaniment to a warm summer day to quench your thirst or served alongside roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Piekenierskloof Wine Company ‘Six Hats’ Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from 13- to 16-year-old, trellised, Fairtrade-certified vineyards predominantly in the Swartland region. The vines were meticulously managed to produce yields of below 6 tons per acre. The 100% cabernet sauvignon fruit was hand-picked and cold soaked for 24 hours. Fermentation was initiated using select yeast strains with the temperature kept under 26 °C. The non-alcohol, malolactic conversion was completed in tank while ageing occurred for six months in French and American oak.

88 ✓ Value

Piekenierskloof Wine Company ‘Six Hats’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Wine of Origin Western Cape, South Africa $14.95 13.5% alcohol

Aromas of grilled savoury herbs, adorned with black currant and notions of charred toast abound on the nose. It envelops the palate with a tang-laden surge of acidity and pizzazz that continues to and through the mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste that adds on a soft, ripe underpinning of tannin and notions of black plum. This pours well with backyard burgers, spicy sausage or Cape Malay bobotie. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Damilano ‘Marghe’ Nebbiolo was sourced from 100% Nebbiolo grapes that were grown on vines from 30- to fifty-years-old. It was fermented at a controlled temperature for 12 days then matured for 12 months in large oak barrels before bottling.

Damilano ‘Marghe’ Nebbiolo 2020

DOC Langhe, Italy $19.95 (576793) 14.0% alcohol

Aromas of leather, rose petals and black licorice dominate the nose of this well-paced and well-priced wine. It captures the palate with a rich and juicy mouthful of bramble berry jelly, racy red pie cherry and wisps of tar and underpinned by approachable tannin from cork pop to last drop. Give this a go with gourmet sausage or backyard, cheese burgers. (Vic Harradine)

• This Non-Vintage Bosco Viticultori ‘Pra Dei Dogi’ Prosecco - Spumante Brut, Non-Vintage was sourced from 100% glera grapes which are thought to be indigenous to Slovenia and were previously known as prosecco grapes.

90 ✓ Value

Bosco Viticultori ‘Pra Dei Dogi’ Prosecco - Spumante Brut, Non-Vintage

DOC Prosecco, Italy $16.95 11.0% alcohol

Floral notes and honeydew melon aromas are adorned with lemon citrus on the nose. There’s plenty of ‘mousse’ when poured and in the glass when the froth dies down to steady streams of small bubbles making their way from the bottom of the glass to the top of the glass in seemingly endless winding streams. It dazzles the palate with yet more bubbles with flavours that are pure ambrosia including lime cordial, passionfruit and lemon curd intertwined with saline-tinged mineral notes and on the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. At this exceptional-value, pick up an armful and enjoy now to October/November, 2022 along with a sushi platter a deli board or lighter-styled appetizers of fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)

• The Darragan family have been successful winegrowers in the AOC Vouvray appellation for nine generations. The following wine was sourced from 100% chenin blanc fruit. The wines are made in a newly built cellar and aged in former troglodyte caves before being bottled and released at pressure of five to six bars. Many vintages of these wines can be carefully cellared for decades. Fermentation temperature was at a cool and well-controlled 16 °C. Serving temperature is at a suggested 8 °C. If stored in the average kitchen refrigerator—approx. 4 °C—take it out of the refrigerator 15 minutes before opening and pouring as an aperitif or alongside smoked salmon. This was fashioned similarly as with Champagne, hence the Méthode Traditionnelle with the 2nd fermentation completed in the bottle that you purchase.

92 ✓ Value

Maison Darragon–‘Blanc de Blanc–Zero Dosage’ Chenin Blanc-Non-Vintage.

AOC Vouvray, Loire Valley, France $22.95 13.0% alcohol

This pours with a profusion of mousse made from fine-bead bubbles and aromas of citrus fruit, saline minerality and oodles of pizzazz. A tang-laden surge of flavour envelops the palate with lemon curd, white grapefruit and hints of crisp, refreshing green apple that persist to and through the lip-smacking finish and racy aftertaste. Pour alongside cold-smoked Atlantic salmon placed on a bagel smothered in cream cheese and decorated with a few sprigs of dill weed and a handful of capers. The price-value proposition swings well in your favour; pick up a few when released. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Piekenierskloof Wine Company ‘Six Hats’ Shiraz was sourced primarily from Fairtrade shiraz vineyards that are trellised and meticulously farmed and groomed to yield below 8 tons per hectare in the Swartland wine region. Grapes were hand-harvested and cold soaked for 24 hours followed by fermentation by selected yeast strains and kept under 26 °C. Malolactic conversion was completed in tank before the wine was matured for 6 months in both French and American oak.

88 ✓ Value

Piekenierskloof Wine Company ‘Six Hats’ Shiraz 2020

Wine of Origin Western Cape, South Africa $13.95 14.0% alcohol

Aromas of black plum, mulberry, grilled herbs and black licorice abound in the nose of this well-priced, well-paced shiraz. It blankets the palate with a balanced and bountiful wash of dark Bing cherries and black currant decorated with tang and plenty of pizzazz. This is medium-plus bodied and nicely textured with good mouthfeel and a persistent purity of fruit from cork pop to last drop. Pour alongside beef fajitas, shawarma or pulled pork or beef enchiladas. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Bodegas Garci Grandi ’12 Linajes’ Verdejo is certified both organic and vegan that was sourced from 100% Verdejo grapes in the Nava del Ray Vineyard that is 700 to 800 meters above sea level with the average age of vines now 16 years. Pre-fermentation cold-soak occurred at 8 °C to 12 °C. Fermentation temperature was controlled at 8 to 12 °C for 4-8 hours while the 10 to 15 day fermentation was controlled at 16 °C.

91 ✓ Value
Bodegas Garci Grandi ‘12 Linajes’ Verdejo 2021
DOP Rueda, Spain $14.95 13.0% alcohol
Bountiful aromas can easily be coaxed with the gentlest of swirls. Look for floral and citrus notes soon joined by peach and nectarine. It’s tang-laden and riding a laser-like stream of lemon pie filling and notes of white grapefruit on the palate soon to be joined with tang-infused flavour and plenty of pizzazz throughout. Another wine that punches well above the price, pick up a few, if you get the chance. Pour alongside grilled and breaded calamari rings or your favourite pan-seared fish or steamed mussels in cream, leeks, garlic and white wine. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Bodegas Garci Grandi white wine was sourced from Verdejo grapes grown in various plots of the Rueda wine region. The following 2021 Bodegas Garci Grandi ‘Señorio Garci Grandi is certified both organic & vegan.

90 ✓ Value
Bodegas Garci Grandi ‘Señorio Garci Grandi’ Verdejo 2021
DOP Rueda, Spain $14.95 13.0% alcohol
Sexy aromas of exotic spice, rose petals and alluring white flowers precede a gusher of palate flavours with Granny Smith apple and ripe Bartlett pear to the fore mingling with lip-smacking lemon curd and racy white grapefruit. It’s pure ambrosia and perfect as a summer sipper or poured with lighter-styled appetizers or pan-seared fish and sea food under a generous squeeze of fresh lemon. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour; pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

· The following Alba Vega Albariño 2021 was sourced from 100% Albariño grapes from one of the premium wine appellations for this particular grape—DO Rias Baixas, situated in the far North-West of Spain. Given the quality-price ratio being so much in your favour, pick up a few, if you can.

91 ✓ Value
Principe de Viana ‘Alba Vega’ Albariño 2021
DO Rias Baixas, Spain $15.95 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of soft citrus and floral notes can be easily accessed with the gentlest swirls. It has medium-plus texture and creamy smooth mouthfeel with palate flavours that have persistent purity of fruit that is crisp, clean and refreshing from first to last drop—Meyer lemon, passionfruit and lime juice. The mouth-watering finish lingers with more of the same as does the lip-smacking aftertaste. Pour with all manner of pan-seared fish or steamed mussels or beer-battered fish, with a side of chips. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✓ Value
Rutini Wines ‘Cruz Alta - Reserve’ Chardonnay 2021
Tupungato, Mendoza, Argentina $16.95 13.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of honeydew melon, citrus and tropical fruit abound on the nose of this crisp and refreshing, nicely oaked chardonnay. It captures the palate with a deftly balanced river of persistent purity of fruit with Granny Smith apple and ripe Bartlett pear mingling with baking spice, mineral notes, vanilla and toasty notes. It’s medium-bodied with good texture and creamy-smooth lemon curd on the palate and on the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. There’s oodles of pizzazz throughout. Pour with roast chicken or panko-breaded veal cutlets. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value
Rutini Wines ‘Cruz Alta - Reserve’ Malbec 2021
Tupungato, Mendoza, Argentina $16.95 13.5% alcohol
Black cherry/berry fruit aromas intertwine with hints of blueberry, black plum and bramble berry on the nose of this Mendoza, Argentina Malbec. The wine in the glass is ruby-hued, but not nearly opaque. The palate’s treated to a surge of flavours with bramble berry pie, crème de cassis and black juicy Bing cherries that persist to and through the finish and aftertaste that relays and replays the palate flavours with grand aplomb. Given the price-quality balance tipped well in your favour, pick up an armful, if you get the chance. Give it a go with backyard burgers or medium-rare grilled steaks. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value
Rutini Wines ‘Cruz Alta - Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina $16.95 13.5% alcohol
This wine was sourced in high-altitude estate vineyards in the Uco Valley, Mendoza. After alcoholic fermentation this wine underwent 100% malolactic fermentation then matured for eight months in 50% all new French oak and 50% all new American oak. An interesting nose of toasty oak, grilled savory herbs and notions of juicy black currant and © Ribena. It streaks over the palate with racy flavours of pie cherry, passionfruit and a boatload of racy tang and pizzazz. It settles down nicely on the finish and aftertaste with balanced and bountiful flavours underpinned by a soft underpinning of ripe tannin. This should be quite good paired with grilled rack of lamb with a side of root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers and best wishes from Lisa Isabelle, Louise Boutin, Dave Isaacs, Vic Harradine

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

May 17, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

There are 44 – There are 44 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter including some from the upcoming May 14th Vintages Release.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Many of them are available for online shopping directly from Ontario wineries with many wineries offering FREE shipping in Ontario. Happy hunting!

Newsletter Highlights:

There are 44 – There are 44 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter including some from the upcoming May 14th Vintages Release.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Many of them are available for online shopping directly from Ontario wineries with many wineries offering FREE shipping in Ontario. Happy hunting!

May 14, 2021 Vintages Release

Ontario: White Wine

• The following four-blend is a perennial favourite and has one of the best price-quality ratios. It was sourced from the following grapes; 54% riesling/18% chardonnay/15% pinot grigio/13% gewürztraminer that had some fruit hand-picked with the balance machine-harvested. Juice was pressed and transferred to 100% stainless steel where the juice was fined and settled then racked off gross lees and fermented with a commercial yeast at 15 °C throughout October 2021. If you haven’t tried it yet, this, or any other vintage won’t disappoint; pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Four Feathers’ 2021
VQA Ontario $14.95 (341586) 12.0% alcohol
Floral and citrus aromas meld nicely with hints of minerality and savoury fennel. It blankets the palate with glorious mouthfuls of fruit—ripe red apple, ripe pear and lemon-lime nuances. It’s medium-bodied with good balance and plenty of pizzazz. This showcases a price-quality ratio that skews well in your favour, ripe fruit, excellent tangy acidity and a medium-plus lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own with friends or with olive-oiled arugula generously topped with crumbled feta cheese. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Featherstone Estate Winery Rosé was carefully chosen from three grape varieties—60% gamay noir/33.3% cabernet sauvignon/6.7% pinot noir. This was fermented in stainless steel tanks by commercial yeast at a controlled temperature of 15 °C, between October 22nd and November 20th with the ferment kept on its lees until mid-December 2021.

Ontario: Rosé Wine

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (117861) 13.0% alcohol
There’s a vivid intensity throughout starting with the medium pink hue and continuing with expressive candy-apple, strawberry-rhubarb jam, watermelon and rose petal aromas. Dry, medium bodied with a generous mouthfeel, an array of juicy, red berry flavours flood the palate leaving a hint of sweetness on the lengthy finish. This versatile rosé is tasty as a patio sipper and can stand up to grilled chicken or salmon. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following 2020 Locust Lane Estate Winery ‘White Merlot – Reserve – Rosé Wine’ was sourced from 100% Merlot from the estate-owned vineyard on the iconic Beamsville Bench that were harvested late September, 2020.

93 🇨🇦
Locust Lane Estate Winery ‘White Merlot - Reserve – Rosé Wine’ 2020
VQA Beamsville Bench $24.95 13.0% alcohol
This is a fresh, nectar of the gods that greets you with lifted aromas of red berry fruit—currants, strawberry and raspberry--with wisps of watermelon and apricot. It dazzles the palate with a full-Monty surge of gorgeous flavours of pure ambrosia. It showcases palate flavours of blood orange, ruby red grapefruit and aromatic bitters as well as excellent tang and acidity, persistent purity of fruit and flavour, deft balance, the Yin and Yang of sweet and tang, a boatload of charm and mouth-watering lengthy finish and aftertaste. What’s not to like. Pour on its own or with a deli platter or charcuterie. Pick up or order a few, you won’t be disappointed. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Lapis Luna Wines ‘Red Wine Blend’ was sourced from 45% malbec/35% cabernet sauvignon/25% merlot from 2 AVA’s with 93% from Mendocino and 7% from Rockpile, North Coast, California. All fruit was gently destemmed and crushed then inoculated by commercial yeast. Each fermentation was pumped-over twice daily with temperature peaking at 90 °F, then macerated from 12 to 28 days then aged for 20 months in French oak barrels with 10% new and 90% neutral.

92 ✓ Value
Lapis Luna Wines ‘Red Wine Blend’ 2019
North Coast, California $19.95 (24100) 14.3% alcohol
Lively and lifted aromas waft easily after a gentle swirl—red cherry, red currant and piquant spice adorned with savoury herbs and wisps of campfire smoke. It’s smooth, balanced and mellow on the palate with delectable flavours of black currant, ripe juicy black cherry and excellent tang and pizzazz from notions of pomegranate and passionfruit. The monumentally long finish and aftertaste replay the delicious palate flavours. Pour alongside your favourite cut of beef steak well seasoned with seasoned salt. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

94
Hewitson ‘Ned and Henry’s’ Shiraz 2019
GI Barossa Valley, South Australia $29.95 (54221) 14.0% alcohol
Beguiling aromas of mulberry, exotic spice and hints of flinty bits abound on the nose. It’s juicy and fruit-forward on the palate showcasing peppery notes, juicy black currant and hints of crème de cassis and mocha persisting to and through the lingering finish and aftertaste. It’s concentrated and classy with deft balance and plenty of ripe, juicy fruit joined by dark bittersweet chocolate on the lingering aftertaste. Good to pour now and with careful cellaring on to 2030. Pour alongside a grilled rack of Australian lamb. (Vic Harradine)

France: Rosé Wine

New in Ontario Wineries

• Château des Charmes - Order on-line by using this link to the winery. You will get FREE shipping from the winery to your licensed restaurant, office or home in Ontario with every order over $99.00.

• The following charming 2020 Château des Charmes ‘Paul Bosc - Estate-Vineyard’ Chardonnay showcases the dazzling 2020 vintage when virtually every VQA appellation and sub-appellation in Ontario was treated to a near-perfect vintage. It was matured for 15 months in French oak barrels, 25% new. This wine is available online and winery-only, use the winery link above to place your order.

92 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes ‘Paul Bosc Estate-Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA St. David’s Bench $34.95 12.5% alcohol
Aged in French oak on its lees for 12 months, this medium-full-bodied, Estate single vineyard chardonnay will charm you with an attractive nose of peach, pear, marzipan and popcorn aromas. It flows on the palate with softness and finesse, offering ripe stone fruit flavours, plenty of lemon peel tanginess and a pleasant vanilla and light buttery finish with a touch of salinity. This is the perfect companion to lobster with lemon garlic butter. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2021 Château des Charmes Cuvée d’Andrée Rosé is available online, at the winery and in the LCBO. The price-value balance tips in your favour. Pick up an armful.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes Cuvée d’Andrée Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $18.95 (333260) 12.0% alcohol
This is a vibrant pinot noir-based rosé crafted with the saignée method. It has strawberry and watermelon aromas on the nose along with beetroot and a little bit of bay leaf flair. Crunchy red cherry flavour takes the lead on the palate, followed with strawberry and tangy cranberry plus a touch of earthiness in the finish and aftertaste. Versatility is the key word for pairing here, try with grilled salmon, beet and avocado tartare or charcuterie board. (Louise Boutin)

• The following gorgeous 2017 Château des Charmes ‘Paul Bosc Estate-Vineyard’ Pinot Noir was aged in new French 500 L oak barrels for 18 months. This wine is available online and winery-only; use the winery-link above to place your order.

92 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes ‘Paul Bosc Estate-Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2017
VQA St. David’s Bench $44.95 13.5% alcohol
Sustainably farmed and hand-harvested from the best Estate single-vineyard, this superb pinot opens the door with a profound nose of ripe dark cherry, potpourri and forest floor aromas. A compact silky-textured flow of red and black cherry flavours fills the palate along with a delicious layer of baking spice and a touch of laurel appearing in the lovely long finish. This is medium-full bodied with perfect acidity and dusty, noticeable tannin adding structure and a promise for longevity. Pair this gorgeous pinot with duck confit or wild mushroom risotto for pure delight. (Louise Boutin)

• Konzelmann Estate Winery was one of the early adopters for vitis vinifera vines. You may purchase the six following wines from this website link - Konzelmann Estate Winery – and they will deliver to your Ontario home, licensed restaurant or office--you will receive FREE shipping on any order for 6 or more wines, Simply type in the following promo code - 6FREE, You can also phone them with an order during business hours – (905) 935-2866.

89 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Cabernet Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 12.5% alcohol
Abundant fruit aromas—watermelon, raspberry, strawberry jam and red currant—meld with hints of orange zest and lilac on the nose. The juicy palate unleashes a stream of watermelon, strawberry and sweet citrus flavours, grounded by a savoury herbal note. Medium bodied, barely off-dry with bright acidity, the fruit flavours shine on the lengthy finish. (Lisa Isabelle)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Canada White’ Riesling Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $14.95 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of Meyer lemon and Key Lime intertwine with dazzling lemon curd preceding a glorious wash of delicious palate-flavours of yin and yang expressed as sweet-tinged lemon-lime cordial with loads of pleasing lip-smacking acidity. It’s well textured with good mouthfeel and a crisp, clean and refreshing aftertaste. Pour with all manner of fish and seafood. (Vic Harradine)

• Zweigelt is a relatively new Austrian vitis vinifera grape created in 1922 by Friedrich Zweigelt (1888–1964), who later became Director of the Federal Institute and Experimental Station of Viticulture, Fruit Production and Horticulture. It is a crossing between St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch grape varieties. Many people believe that this grape produces red wine that is similar to Pinot Noir. It is widely planted in Austria.

87 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Canada Red’ Zweigelt Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $14.95 (125260) 11.5% alcohol
Red cherry, black pepper and gamey aromas introduce a medium-light wash of tart red cherry flavour, followed by a mild herbaceous flavour and closing on a peppery note. This has 100% zweigelt with low tannin and refreshing acidity. It would be an inspired choice when served alongside simple burgers on a hot summer day. The quality-price equation skews well in your favour; pick up a few. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2020 Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Lakefront Series – Unoaked’ Chardonnay was 100% matured in stainless steel tank and saw no oak.

89 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Lakefront Series – Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 12.0% alcohol
There’s exceptional value in this tasty chardonnay. The nose is fresh and clean offering aromas of yellow apple, peach, a hint of fennel and a pleasant floral note before coating the palate with ripe stone fruit and citrus flavours. Dry, medium-light bodied with a satiny-smooth mouthfeel, it finishes mid-length and would pair well with chicken vol-au-vent. (Lisa Isabelle)

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Reserve Series’ Late Harvest Gewürztraminer 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 13.5% alcohol
This golden-robed, off-dry, late harvest wine catches your attention with its charming nose. Lychee, honeydew melon, rose petals and ginger aromas precede a mouth-coating wash of honeyed tropical fruit, candied orange zest and exotic spice on the medium-bodied palate. The interplay of bright acidity and luscious sweetness creates balance, maintaining freshness and vibrancy throughout. This offers exceptional-value and could pair with an array of dishes from spicy Singapore noodles to apple streusel. (Lisa Isabelle)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Lakefront Series - Peachwine’ 2020
Product of Canada $18.95 11.5% alcohol
Piquant spice and notions of vermouth dominate the aromas of this beguiling fruit wine. It blankets the palate with deftly balanced mouthfuls of sweet and ripe fruit including mango, white peach and excellent tang persisting to and through the lingering finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. It’s crisp, clean and refreshing. Pour with smoked duck breasts topped with mango chutney or sip on its own on sunny, warm days. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 12.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of floral notes, citrus and hints of tropical fruit abound with mango and ripe pineapple to the fore. It captures the palate with a medium-bodied nicely textured stream, deftly balanced fruit, tangy citrus and oodles of pizzazz. It finishes quite lengthy on the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up an armful. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery Pinot Grigio 2021
VQA Niagara Escarpment $18.95 10.5% alcohol
Here’s a wine under $20.00 that was fashioned from pinot grigio fruit sourced from the tony VQA sub-appellation of Niagara Escarpment. It opens with aromas of musk melon, freshly mown hay and citrus notes. It blankets the palate with a gusher of palate flavours—ripe white peach, poached pear and a crisp Fuji apple. Sip on its own or pour with breaded and grilled calamari rings or with steamed green-lip mussels. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Kevin O’Leary’ Unoaked Chardonnay is named for the Dragon’s Den and Shark Tank investor who now has an investment in the wine named after him and fashioned at Vineland Estates Winery. His goal is to produce great wine at exceptional-value and that’s why he created O’Leary’s Wines.

89 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Kevin O’Leary’ Unoaked Chardonnay 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 11.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of floral notes, citrus fruit and lemon pastille precede a gusher of palate flavours with tangy lemon-lime, crisp Granny Smith apple and a fruit bowl of flavours from tropical fruit underpinned by good texture, excellent acidity and a truckload of racy pizzazz. The aromas and palate flavours replay and reverberate through the finish and aftertaste. Sip on a warm summer day or pour with beer-can roast chicken that’s hot off the barbecue. (Vic Harradine)

Tawse Winery and Redstone Winery wines can be ordered from their individual links above.

• The Quarry Road Vineyard, planted in 1998, is a mixture of limestone and clay soil and is known for producing Chardonnays of unique minerality. It was barrel fermented with indigenous yeast and aged 12 months in French Oak. It is drinking well now and will until at least 2025 with careful cellaring.

93 🇨🇦
Tawse Winery ‘Estate Bottled – Quarry Road Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2019
VQA Vinemount Ridge $36.95 13.0% alcohol
Ripe apple, pear, pink grapefruit and pineapple dominate before aromas of roasted almond, vanilla bean and butter gently emerge. The mid-weight palate, both creamy and mouth-watering, exhibits caramel apple, grilled peach and buttered toast flavours which linger on the long, mineral-driven finish. This delicious and beautifully balanced chardonnay would pair well with seafood pasta in a cream sauce. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following 2020 Tawse Winery ‘Estate Bottled – Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir is a perennial favourite that was aged in French oak for 10 months and showcases the dazzling 2020 Vintage.

91 🇨🇦
Tawse Winery ‘Estate Bottled – Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $26.95 (130989) 13.0% alcohol
Pale ruby in colour, appealing notes of violet, baking spice and pepper garnish aromas of tart cherry, ripe raspberry and blackberry. The medium-bodied, vibrant palate is treated to lasting, pure cherry-berry flavours, underscored by notions of dusty minerals and dried herbs, wrapped in gentle tannins. Enjoy with duck confit served with mushroom risotto or cedar-planked salmon. (Lisa Isabelle)

91 🇨🇦
Redstone ‘Limestone Vineyard-South’ Riesling 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $23.15 11.0% alcohol
Don’t let the intense petroleum whiff distract you from this beautiful off-dry riesling. Apple, pear, ginger, great citrus acidity and a touch of honey will charm you both on the nose and the palate, all the way to the nice crisp and persistent dusty mineral finish. This is perfect for General Tao tofu or just to enjoy on its own. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Tawse ‘Sketches’ Riesling 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (89029)10.5% alcohol
Discrete at first, this off-dry riesling opens-up to beautiful aromas of pear, yellow apple and a whisper of flint. It flows easily on the palate with refreshing flavours of apple, pink grapefruit, ginger and mineral flair adding to the thirst-quenching character of this medium-light-bodied versatile white. Pair with Vietnamese caramelized pork or sip on its own. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Tawse ‘Sketches’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (89037) 13.0% alcohol
This exceptional-value chardonnay features a pretty nose of peach, pear, crushed fennel seeds and a hint of vanilla. It hits the palate with a creamy textured flow of orchard fruit flavours, pineapple, loads of citrus acidity followed with a nice dry, tangy mineral finish and aftertaste. This medium-bodied white is the perfect companion to baked lemon-butter cod loin or chicken brochettes on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

Upstream in Winecurrent

Vintages Release : TBD 2022

Portugal: Red Wine

89 ✓ Value
Carmim ‘Terra Lenta-Premium’ 2020
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $13.95 (646083) 14.5% alcohol
This friendly priced blend of almost equal parts of trincadeira, aragonez and alicante bouschet grapes shows aromas of dark fruit, sweet cherry and dusty gravel. A juicy wash of ripe blackberry, cassis and plum treats the palate along with a balancing slight bitter note and peppery character. This medium-full bodied interesting red offers good tannin structure and a persistent dry warm finish. Pop the cork with gourmet burgers or beef shawarma and all the toppings. (Louise Boutin)

91 ✓ Value
Carmim ‘Monsaraz-Reserva’ Tinto 2020
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $15.95 (20711) 15.0% alcohol
Alicante Bouschet is a red flesh grape contributing 50% to this deep ruby, almost opaque blend, along with premium Port grapes—touriga nacional and trincadeira. It shows a lovely nose of ripe black fruit, kirsch liqueur, cinnamon and a hint of lilac. On the palate, it’s juicy with loads of blackberry and blueberry flavours coupled with orange zest and peppery notes trailing in the dry, savoury, enjoyable finish. Pair this medium-full bodied excellent red with duck confit or stuffed Portobello mushroom cooked on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

89 ✓ Value
Agri-Roncão Vinicola ‘DR’ Colheita Tinto 2020
DOC Douro, Portugal $14.95 (14663) 13.0% alcohol
This is a classic Portuguese red grape blend of touriga nacional, touriga franca—both indigenous to Portugal and tinta roriz—more commonly known tempranillo—which is indigenous to Spain—with no oak contact. It’s slightly smoky on the nose with black fruit aromas and a graphite note in the background. It fills the palate with purple plum, blackberry and cola flavours, a good dose of tanginess and savoury dry herbs, all wrapped in slightly grippy tannins. Pour alongside hearty meat loaf or pork ribs on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

Australia: Red Wine

91 ✓ Value
Sidewood Estate ‘Stablemate’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
GI Adelaide Hills, Australia $16.95 (26926) 14.6% alcohol
This single-vineyard red is matured 18 months in French oak. It displays attractive aromas—ripe black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, cocoa powder and a hint of eucalyptus. It’s silky soft on the palate carrying delicious flavours of mixed berries, including bright tangy raspberry, plus cassis, cinnamon and finishing on a pleasant minty cooling effect. Medium-full-bodied with well- integrated alcohol, polished tannins and plenty of freshness, it's the perfect partner to lamb burgers or marinated flank steak on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

Vintages Release: TBD 2022

90 ✓ Value
Patrick Galant Côtes du Rhône Villages 2021
AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages $16.95 (20640) 14.0% alcohol
This hand-harvested blend of primarily grenache and syrah with a splash of carignan and mourvèdre sees no oak in the ageing process. The nose is fresh with aromas of blackberry and strawberry, a hint of licorice and a lovely floral note reminiscent of peonies. Generous in flavours—blackberry, dark plum, black cherry, raspberry—with spiciness and dry bay leaf flair, all wrapped in smooth, yet noticeable tannins, this medium-full-bodied red will be a hit at your next gathering. Serve slightly chilled and enjoy alongside a gourmet charcuterie board with fresh artisan bread. (Louise Boutin)

89
Patrick Galant Cairanne 2021
AOP Cairanne $18.95 (15521) 14.0% alcohol
Purple shaded in the glass, this blend of grenache, syrah and mourvèdre shows aromas of mixed berry, purple plum, crushed gravel and a hint of cinnamon. A silky textured flow of spicy blackberry and dark cherry flavours is quickly caught up with a hot wave of earthy and peppery character defining the persistent finish. This is medium-full bodied with fine-grained tannins and may need more time to come together. If opened now, aerate/decant two hours and enjoy with a juicy marinated flank steak on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Patrick Galant Cairanne ‘Vielles Vignes’ 2020
AOP Cairanne $19.95 (20641) 14.5% alcohol
This old-vines blend of 85% grenache, the rest syrah and mourvèdre is hand-harvested, vinified in concrete vats and aged in small oak casks for 12 months. It offers a pleasant nose of sweet dark cherry, almost like kirsch liqueur, clove, gamey notes and forest floor quality. A warm and bold stream of flavours mirroring the aroma profile travels the palate grabbing along the way garrigue character and cola notes before closing on a long-lasting savoury note. This full-bodied red has potential to further evolve but can be enjoyed now after two hours of aeration. Pair with a grilled rack of lamb or mixed gourmet sausages. (Louise Boutin)

93
Patrick Galant Châteauneuf du Pape ‘Nonciature’ 2020
AOP Châteauneuf du Pape $49.95 (21324) 14.5% alcohol
This classic Rhône appellation of hand-harvested 60% grenache, 30% syrah and 10% mourvèdre, shows finesse from the get go with its delicate floral aromas of lilac, followed with ripe cherry, plum and a whisper of vanilla. A velvety river of flavours aligned with the aroma profile and wrapped in polished tannins is a real treat for the palate. This medium-full-bodied harmonious red is the perfect balance of finesse and character from first sip to the long fruity, peppery, dry elegant finish. This will further evolve with a few more years of cellaring but it is perfectly enjoyable now alongside duck confit or hearty cassoulet. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Paringa Shiraz 2019
South Australia $16.95 (632083) 14.9% alcohol
Freshly crushed blackberry and purple plum aromas seep from the glass along with a hint of tar and cracked black peppercorn. Very smooth on the palate and surprisingly light on its feet, this medium-full bodied red matured one year in half-and-half new and used French oak barrels. It offers juicy flavours of ripe blackberry and dark cherry, adding persistent peppery character mid-palate and a bright note of raspberry in the dry finish. Perfect for a barbecue treat with diverse meats of vegetarian alternatives. (Louise Boutin)

LCBO Limited-Time Offers

Save on these popular products from now to May 22nd, regardless of the vintage purchased at LCBO stores.

• The following five white wines receive a $2.00 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine reviews below when purchased from now to May 22nd 2022.

White Wines

• The following Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted-White) is a popular Vintages Essentials wine that was sourced from 80% riesling/10% gewürztraminer/10% chardonnay with each variety contributing to this crisp, refreshing gem.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted-White’
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (1578) 11.0% alcohol
Aromas of piquant spice, rosewater and citrus abound. An off-dry surge of pure ambrosia rolls over the palate with deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and pizzazz to and through the crisp and refreshing finish and aftertaste that adds mouth-watering lemon curd and lip-smacking Key lime to the palate flavours of honeydew melon, white peach and ripe apricot. What’s not to like?
Pour with medium-spiced Asian cuisine or your favourite sushi platter with pickled ginger and wasabi. (Vic Harradine)

87
Mer Soleil ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay
Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County $29.95 (958975) 14.9% alcohol
Baking spice, caramel and toasty, buttery aromas unleash a huge gusher of flavour that will leave few imbibers without a strong opinion. If you’re looking for a full-bodied, fully textured, high-octane, tsunami wave of rich, luscious, sweet flavours—grilled pineapple, oak-inspired vanillin and caramel apple—then you should love this. There are tropical fruit notes along with ripe pear, a bit of citrus pith and wisps of oak on the sweet-tinged finish and aftertaste—not for the faint of palate. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Tawse Winery ‘Quarry Road Vineyard’ Riesling was sourced from their estate-owned Quarry Road Vineyard from hand-picked fruit from 12-year-old Riesling vines. It was fashioned as an off-dry wine. This is also a Vintages Essentials wine always available in a large number of select LCBO retail stores.

92 🇨🇦
Tawse Winery ‘Quarry Road Vineyard - Organic’ Riesling
VQA Vinemount Ridge $24.95 (198853) 11.0% alcohol
Aromas of wet-stone minerality, piquant, ginger spice and fresh lime precede a dazzling palate-freshening stream of lime cordial and tingling tang and acidity that’s balanced on a pin by 23.5g of residual sugar. This is crisp, refreshing and light-medium bodied with good mouthfeel and a monumentally long, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. There’s persistent purity of fruit with palate replays and a laser-like line of mouth-watering tang and pizzazz. Pour on its own or alongside mussels steamed in white wine, sliced leeks with a splash of cream or a plate of gourmet sushi. (Vic Harradine)

• The following white wine receives a $3.00 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine reviews below when purchased from now to May 22nd 2022

Red Wines

• The following 7 red wines receive a $2.00 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine reviews below when purchased from now to May 22nd 2022

90 ✓ Value
Château Saint-Roch Chimères
AOP Côtes du Roussillon-Villages $17.95 (119354) 15.0% alcohol
This blend from southern France — 60% grenache, 30% syrah and 10% carignan—presents an inviting nose of smoky dark fruit, kirsch liqueur, baking spice and savoury dry herbs. The seduction continues with a velvety mouthfeel cradling aromas of ripe baked plum, blackberry, dark cherry, cinnamon and a hint of liquorice extended in the medium-long, warm finish. This is full-bodied with firm yet fine tannin and a perfect dollop of acidity. Aerate/decant two hours and pour now and onto 2021 with braised lamb shanks. (Louise Boutin)

88 ✓ Value
Casa Santos Lima ‘Confidencial - Reserva’
Vinho Regional Lisboa $14.95 (452789) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of berry fruit, spice and floral notes introduce a rich, sweet-tinged wash of ripe juicy cherry, mulberry and black currant intertwined with red licorice and supple tannin. It’s medium bodied with good texture and lengthy finish. It pours well with burgers, meat-laden, red pizza or back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Esporão ‘Reserva’ Red Blend was sourced from hand-picked, estate-grown fruit sourced from Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez, Trincadeira, Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Each variety was vinified separately, fermented in stainless steel tank with malolactic conversion, manual pump-overs and robotic plunging before maturing 12 months in 60% American, 40% French oak and further 8 months settling in bottle before release.

90
Esporão ‘Reserva’ Red Blend
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $26.95 (606590) 14.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of grilled herbs and dark berry fruit precede a rush of red and black fruit coating the palate expressed as ripe black briary berry, red cherry and wisps of blueberry. This is medium-plus bodied with good balance and plenty of lively tang on the lengthy, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside hearty stew, grilled steak or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

88
Oyster Bay Pinot Noir
Marlborough $20.95 (590414) 14.0% alcohol
Semi-transparent ruby in colour, attractive pipe tobacco and smoky notes mingle with red cherry and cranberry aromas. This dry, medium-bodied red balances fresh acidity and subtle tannins with tart red fruit, spice and earthy flavours. Warm on the finish, you’ll enjoy this with grilled salmon fillet. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following Veramonte ‘Primus’ Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced in the foothills of the Andes in a low-yielding vintage due to lack of rain. It has also resulted in the fruit flavours being more prominent in the finished wine—you lose some and you win some. This wine is certified organic and certified vegan friendly.

89
Veramonte ‘Primus’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Alto Maipo Valley, Chile $19.95 (486043) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of wood smoke, black plum, earthy notes and dark cherry/berry fruit herald a surge of palate flavours with cherry clafoutie, black cherry and an underpinning of still-evolving tannin that can be ameliorated with a simple, three-hour aeration/decant. This has oodles of tang and pizzazz, is nicely balanced and lingers with replays on the fairly brief finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside roast beef, grilled burgers, beef fajitas or burritos. (Vic Harradine)

88
Tom Gore Cabernet Sauvignon
California $19.95 (451336) 13.5 % alcohol
This is fairly priced, full bodied and fully textured. Aromas of blackberry, dark plum, pipe tobacco and spice open the door to a mouthful of rich, luscious flavour with kirsch liqueur and black plum compote nicely balanced by red cherry tang and acidity. It finishes balanced with hints of mocha and pours well with grilled striploin after a one-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

• The following two red wines receive a $3.00 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine reviews below when purchased from now to May 22nd 2022

91
7 Deadly Zins ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel
Lodi, California $23.95 (59311) 15.0% alcohol
Plum compote and crushed blueberry come to mind when nosing this ‘old vines’ zin, followed by raspberry, vanilla and cedar aromas emerging as you get deeper in the glass. A juicy flow of ripe blackberry, purple plum and raspberry glides on the palate with gentle heat and peppery notes. Tannins are present yet smooth and the sweet/savoury note in the finish makes you go back for more. Definitely a crowd pleaser, this full-bodied versatile red is a safe buy and is delicious with lamb burgers or glazed beef short ribs. (Louise Boutin)

• The following red wine receive a $1.50 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine review below when purchased from now to May 22nd 2022

91
Marchesi Di Barolo Barolo
DOCG Barolo $43.95 (168179) 14.0% alcohol
Lilac, exotic spice and cherry/berry aromas waft from this mid-weight, nicely textured Nebbiolo. A fresh, sleek stream of sour cherry, sweet, ripe boysenberry and piquant spice bathes the palate. It finishes lengthy with mouth-watering tang, sprigs of dried sage and roasted herbs interweaving with ripe, dark berry fruit. There’s good moderating acidity and enough tannin for interest and structure. (Vic Harradine)

• The following red wine receive a $5.00 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine review below when purchased from now to May 22nd 2022

89
Barone Ricasoli ‘Rocca Guicciarda’ Riserva Chianti Classico
DOCG Chianti Classico $24.95 (943613) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted floral and earthy notes weave through aromas of red and dark fruit—cherry and plum—in this dry, medium-full bodied sangiovese accented with a touch of merlot and cabernet sauvignon. A well-defined structure supported by flavours of dark cherry, cranberry, spice and a pleasant mineral quality persist through the lengthy, drying finish—aerate/decant a couple of hours before serving alongside pasta with tomato-based sauce. (Lisa Isabelle)

Other Wines and Spirits

• The following 2 red wines receive a $2.00 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine review below when purchased from now to May 22nd 2022

• The following Kim Crawford Rosé is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

90 ✓ Value
Kim Crawford Rosé
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand $18.95 (650325) 13.0% alcohol
A wonderful rosé to raise in a toast to spring, this is a blend of 93% merlot with the balance malbec. It has a salmon-pink and peach-hue colour, with a nose of strawberry and clover aromas. This is medium-full bodied with a slightly off-dry sensation and nice crisp level of acidity. There are flavours of strawberry throughout, and a slight touch of gentle tannins on the finish. Enjoy with a baby spinach and strawberry salad drizzled with balsamic vinegar. (Dave Isaacs)

• The following Malivoire wine is a perennial-favourite found as a Vintages Essentials product in always available a number of select LCBO stores.

• The following 2 wines receive a $3.00 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine review below when purchased from now to May 22nd 2022

88
Bottega Gold Prosecco Non-Vintage
DOC Treviso, Veneto, Italy $27.95 (621458) 11.0% alcohol
The golden-coloured opaque bottle isn’t merely bling, it preserves freshness in the wine longer than clear glass. Hand-harvested glera grapes produced this Charmat-method sparkler. It’s dry, crisp and refreshing throughout with aromas and flavours of lip-smacking, lemon zest, green apple and pear—pour with lighter appetizers or seafood. This also glitters in a variety of winery-suggested cocktails. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Cave Spring Vineyard ‘Blanc de Blancs – Estate Grown’ Brut Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage was sourced from estate-grown vineyards along the benchlands of the Niagara Escarpment. It was vinified Méthode Traditionelle—fermented and aged sur lie in the bottle for its 2nd fermentation a minimum of 30 months prior to disgorging.

94 🇨🇦
Cave Spring ‘Blanc de Blancs – Estate Grown’ Brut Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage
VQA Beamsville Bench $32.95 (213983) 12.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of leesy notes, saline minerality and brioche mingle with apple, orange blossom and pear. A frothy mousse—aka bubbles—when poured, reveal a light-gold hue in the wine while fine-bead bubbles work their way from the bottom and sides of the glass to the top of your wine. This is delicious with palate-flavours of poached pear and baked apple intertwined with wet stone minerality and excellent tang delivered in the flavour of freshly squeezed lemon and lime. Versatile at the table, give one or more of these a try: prawn ceviche, scallops pan-seared in butter, freshly-shucked oysters, breaded and grilled calamari, tempura sushi. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

May 1, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

There are 34… – There are 34 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Featherstone Estate Winery sent along 12 wines that were Ontario Winery Only wines at time of submitting for printing to be published to loyal subscribers like you. Enjoy!

Newsletter Highlights:

There are 34… – There are 34 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Featherstone Estate Winery sent along 12 wines that were Ontario Winery Only wines at time of submitting for printing to be published to loyal subscribers like you. Enjoy!

Vintages Release: April 30th 2022

Sparkling Wine

89
Pierre Sparr Crémant d’Alsace ‘Reserve’ Brut Non-Vintage
AOC Crémant d’Alsace, France $18.95 (388603) 12.5% alcohol
There are green hints to the light gold hue when poured. Aromas of baking brioche and citrus make way for a profusion of mousse that once settled reveals fine-bead bubbles endlessly winding their way to the top of the glass. It’s pleasant on the palate with a mélange of flavours including caramel, green apple and racy lemon citrus with the latter dominating the mouth-watering finish. The price is certainly on your side considering it’s produced Méthode Traditionnelle and it’s a ‘Reserve’ wine. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

• Low-yielding chardonnay vines averaging 30 years old provided excellent fruit for the following 2018 Cave Spring Cellars ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay. It matured in older oak casks before bottling. The price-quality ratio tips well in your favour, pick up an armful.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Cave Spring Cellars ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay 2018
VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 (256552) 13.5% alcohol
This presents with a rich nose of orchard fruit, anise and vanilla notes opening the door to a medium-full bodied wash of delicious ripe pear and peach flavours lifted with tangy and slightly pithy citrus. It is perfectly balanced with an enjoyable warm and lasting dry finish, replaying anise and vanilla notes. Pour alongside prawn risotto. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2019 Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Canadian Oak’ Chardonnay was sourced from 100% chardonnay that was crushed, destemmed and pressed into Canadian oak barrels and fermented by autochthonous yeast indigenous to the vineyard and surrounding areas. The wine was matured for ten months—stirred on lees monthly—in 100% Canadian oak barrels with 90% one to 5-year-old barrels and 10% new. Malolactic fermentation was taken to 50% completion.

92 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Canadian Oak’ Chardonnay 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $22.95 (149302) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of green apple and ripe pear interwoven with floral notes and caramel precede a palate-bathing wash of tangy lemon-lime acidity and baked apple and notions of baking spice—nutmeg and cinnamon. This is medium bodied with good mouthfeel and persistent purity of fruit, good balance and plenty of pizzazz. Palate replays persist through the finish and aftertaste crisp, clean and refreshing. Remove from the refrigerator 20 to 30 minutes before serving. It sips well on its own and also pours well with roast chicken or pork roast. (Vic Harradine)

• At time of harvest—October 1, 2021—the fruit for the following 2021 Featherstone Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc was sourced from mature 18-year-old, 100% sauvignon blanc vines that enjoyed a lengthy, warm growing season. Fruit was harvested, crushed, destemmed and allowed to cold soak then transferred into stainless steel tanks for eight hours then racked off gross lees several times before fining. 20% was barrel fermented with the balance fermented in controlled-temperature stainless steel tanks.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (89011) 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of lemon zest, ripe peach and pineapple are joined by savoury notions of hay and green tea on the nose of this consistently well-crafted sauvignon blanc. Tart citrus flavours infused with herbs anchor the refreshing palate and endure through the lingering finish. Enjoy this dry, medium-light bodied white with a fresh, green salad topped with goat cheese. (Lisa Isabelle)

Ontario: Red Wine

• The following 2020 Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc reflects the dazzling VQA Ontario 2020 vintage. It was harvested and optically sorted then underwent a five-day cold soak before being fermented in the winery’s controlled temperature cellar. It matured in a combination of new and used American oak barrels and completed 100% malolactic conversion. Drink now and on to 2028 with careful cellaring.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (64618) 12.5% alcohol
This is a blend of cabernet franc with just a splash of merlot. It displays a beautiful nose of red cherry, bell pepper, tobacco and a touch of pepper. This is medium-bodied with delicious flavours of red cherry, pomegranate and cola notes developing on the back palate before closing on a bright, fresh red fruit and savoury note. Pour alongside stuffed red bell peppers or gourmet red-sauce pizza. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2019 Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in 225 select LCBO retail stores. It has a touch (5%) Merlot and was harvested then optically sorted prior to a five-day cold soak before fermentation with commercial yeast in the winery climate-controlled cellar. It was then matured in 100% American oak barrels with 20% one to three year old barrels, 15% four year old barrels and 25% new. Malolactic fermentation was taken to 100% completion. The winery suggest you can carefully cellar this for the next decade.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (64618) 12.9% alcohol
This is rich and luscious on the nose with aromas of mocha, black cherry/berry fruit and black plum. It blankets the palate with a glorious swath of black raspberry, black currant and black juicy Bing cherry flavours cloaked in excellent tang and acidity and underpinned by firm ripe tannin structure. It’s nicely balanced, medium-plus weight and finishes lengthy and luxurious with palate replays. Pour alongside backyard burgers, beer-can chicken, pizza, or flank steak fajitas. Keep a few bottles on hand. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Tawse ‘Sketches’ Cabernet-Merlot is a blend of 43% cabernet sauvignon/36% cabernet franc/23% merlot that was sourced from a variety of select Niagara vineyards that matured for 14 months in French oak.

91 🇨🇦
Tawse ‘Sketches’ Cabernet - Merlot 2018
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (130252) 12.5% alcohol
Red cherry, bell pepper, mixed berry and black peppercorn aromas mingle together harmoniously in this pretty red blend. It flows easily on the palate with fresh crunchy red fruit flavours coupled with dark cherry and a hint of jalapeno. This is medium-bodied with medium tannin structure and the perfect partner to juicy flank steak with grilled bell peppers or gourmet red sauce pizza. (Louise Boutin)

Argentina: Red Wine

• In 1999 Susana Balbo, Argentina’s first female winemaker, founded her namesake wine brand - Susana Balbo Wines - and the Dominio del Plata winery in Lujàn de Cuyo, Mendoza. Today, alongside her son José and daughter Ana, Balbo focuses on environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Balbo was the first president of Wines of Argentina and, in 2019, she chaired the Buenos Aires W20 summit, a group within the G20 organization that promotes gender equity in the world’s 20 leading economies. The following wine was sourced from estate-vineyard malbec-97% and merlot-3% planted and harvested at 1250 M above sea level at Altamira, Uco Valley. Mendoza. There’s good value in the following wine.

92
Susana Balbo Wines ‘Signature’ Malbec 2019
Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina $20.95 (79798) 14.5% alcohol
In spite of its dense appearance in the glass, it’s almost opaque, it’s smooth and mellow on the palate. Aromas of dark cherry/berry fruit and wisps of judiciously used and well-integrated oak add interest and depth on the palate with juicy ripe mulberry and © Ribena robed in tang-infused red pie cherry and notions of blood orange. This is medium-plus bodied with firm texture and structure and persistent purity of fruit throughout. Give this a go with grilled medium-rare skirt steak. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: White Wine

• The following 2020 Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Chardonnay was sourced from two premium Geographical Indications 57% Padthaway/43% Clare Valley. A small portion of this wine was barrel fermented and then lees stirred for four months. After 6 - 8 months maturation in French oak, the wine was blended and bottled. This wine was crafted for immediate enjoyment but will cellar for a short term under ideal conditions. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few.

94 ✓ Value
Wakefield ‘Estate Label’ Chardonnay 2020
GI’s Padthaway and Clare Valley, South Australia $16.95 (711556) 13.5% alcohol
Charming aromas of pit fruit—Mirabelle plum, nectarine and peach—precede delicious mouthfuls of palate flavours with tangy acidity melding with citrus notes and orchard fruit, ripe apple and poached pear. This is medium weight with good texture and mouthfeel, deft balance and plenty to like from twist top to last drop. Sips well on its own and pours sublime with roast fowl or steamed lobster dipped in clarified butter. Don’t be shy, pick up an armful. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Sidewood ‘Stablemate’ Pinot Noir was sourced from hand-harvested fruit from the estate Oakbank Vineyard and is a selected blend of Oberlin, 777, MV6 and Abel pinot noir clones. Grapes were chilled for 24 hours pre-fermentation and then separated by clonal variety and fermented separately. There were whole-bunch and non-whole-bunch batches fermented by native yeasts with approximately 30% whole bunch in the final blend. It was then matured in French oak barrels for 10 months before a careful barrel selection was made for the final blend.

92 ✓ Value
Sidewood ‘Stablemate’ Pinot Noir 2019
GI Adelaide Hills, Australia $18.95 (20878) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of red berry fruit—currants, strawberry—and piquant spice abound on the nose intertwined with mulberry and black plum. It’s medium-bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel and oodles of lip-smacking tang and crunchy red fruit palate flavours—passionfruit and pie cherry. It finishes in a blaze with the finish and aftertaste revealing a lovely dollop of cherry cordial and a hint of vanilla and spice. Pour with your favourite meat pie, a rich, beef stew or a simple meatloaf. This punches well over its price tag. Pick up a few and drink into 2023. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: White Wine

• The following 2020 Palliser Estate Wines ‘Pencarrow’ Sauvignon Blanc was sourced from two estate-grown plots with 57% from older vines in their Cloustin Vineyard and the balance from their ‘East Base’ vines. The fruit was pressed to stainless steel vats then cold settled and cold fermented to 13.5% alcohol. It rested on its lees and was stirred post fermentation then bottled January, 2021.

92 ✓ Value
Palliser Estate ‘Pencarrow’ Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Marlborough, North Island, New Zealand $18.95 (148429) 13.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of savoury herbs and musky thiol leap from the glass after even the slightest swirl. It blankets the palate with a surge of delightful flavours with lime cordial, lemon curd and blood orange to the fore. It’s soon joined by passion fruit and lime- and sugar-drizzled guava. This is nicely balanced with persistent purity of fruit from twist top to final drop. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few and pour with freshly shucked, briny, Malpec oysters decorated with a few drops of hot sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon and a pinch or two of horseradish or steamed green-lip mussels and fries. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: Red Wine

95
Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi ‘Castelgiocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino
DOCG Brunello di Montalcino, Italy $53.95 (650432) 14.5% alcohol
This showcases purity of fruit, a deft tang/fruit balance and plenty of years ahead to mature—pop corks now, after a three-hour aeration/decant, or 2023 to 2028. Alluring, sexy aromas of baking spice, smoky notes, berry fruit, floral and cedar abound. A supple flow of full-flavoured ambrosia envelops the palate with crunchy red fruit—pomegranate and cranberry—interlaced with black currant, dark plum, spice and juicy Bing cherry. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouthfeel and a lingering finish underpinned by still-evolving ripe tannin. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

• Available in LCBO stores April 24th to May 21st, 2022 at a Limited Time Only discount of $2.00 from the regular price of $17.95 and will be available for the aforementioned time for $15.95 per bottle.

• The following Non-Vintage Malivoire Wine Company ‘Che Bello’ Sparkling Wine was made in the Charmat method with the 2nd fermentation happening in a sealed tank. This wine did not undergo malolactic fermentation. It was sourced from two vineyards – with riesling from Geneva Frost Road and seyval and vidal from Huebel Estate Vineyards.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Che Bello’ Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $17.95 LTO $15.95 (16858) 11.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of citrus and pineapple adorned by pit fruit—apricot and nectarine—abound on the nose and are carried along by the energetic ‘mousse’—aka bubbles on the top of the wine when poured in the glass. A real treat awaits on the palate with a delightful yin and yang delivered by the yin of sweet ripe fruit—cantaloupe and peach—and the delightful yang and tang delivered by lip-smacking lemon curd and crisp Granny Smith apple.

Classics Collection Release online only: May 5, 2022

• Hand-harvested pinot noir is accredited by Terra Vitas as being sustainably grown and is monitored by independent inspectors. This wine is also certified by Demeter as being an organic and bio-dynamic produced wine. Grapes are destemmed and sorted by hand removing all stems leaves etc. Australia has a wonderful name for this debris – mog (rhymes with log) – ‘material other than grapes’. The fruit underwent cold maceration for 5 to 8 days then underwent gentle punch-downs of the cap and gentle stirring with the entire procedure taking approximately three weeks before being gently pressed by pneumatic press separating free-run juice from pressed-juice with the free-run juice being cooled for 24 hours then transferred to French oak barrels for nine months of first malolactic fermentation and for then for maturation. Select barrels are then blended together and not filtered before being bottled then released.

93
Gérard Bertrand ‘Domaine de L’Aigle’ Pinot Noir 2019
IGP Haute vallée de L’Aude, Languedoc, France $35.00 (23918) 14.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of red cherry/berry fruit adorned with mineral bits, toasty oak, piquant, peppery spice and earthy notes. It captures the palate with a stream of tang-laden fruit with pie cherry, red currant and passionfruit to the fore. There are ripe tannin for an underpinning along with medium-bodied weight and texture and plenty of tang and pizzazz. There’s also persistence of palate flavours through the lingering lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Give this a go with boeuf Bourguignon or lamb tagine. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages online only: starting May 12, 2022

• The following 2020 Gérard Bertrand ‘Domaine de L’Aigle’ Chardonnay was sourced from densely planted estate chardonnay vineyards of 5000 to 6000 vines per hectare and at 250 M and 500 M above sea level making them amongst the highest in the Languedoc region. The wine is accredited organic and biodynamic by Demeter. The fruit is all hand-harvested and is pressed gently with the must then cooled and left to settle and mature on its lees before alcoholic fermentation begins then a percentage of the wine is transferred to oak barrels for full malolactic conversion.

94
Gérard Bertrand ‘Domaine de L’Aigle’ Chardonnay 2020
AOP Limoux, Languedoc, France $35.00 (377671) 14.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of baking brioche, fresh pear and ripe peach dominate the nose of this well-paced gem. Palate flavours of lemon curd and lime cordial are joined by baked apple and poached pear that persist to and through the medium-length, lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. This is light on its feet with good balance, persistent purity of fruit, good texture and mouthfeel. It’s good to pour now and on to 2027. Pour alongside crown roast of pork or pan-seared-in-butter salmon or rainbow trout under a generous squeeze of fresh lemon when plated. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: May 22, 2022

• The following 2021 Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Soldier’s Wife’ Sauvignon Blanc is a new branch in the Family Tree banner. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Soldier’s Wife’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (25649) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of grassy and herbal notes waft easily from the glass with gentlest swirl. It blankets the palate with a lip-smacking lemon curd and mouth-watering tang and pizzazz. It’s medium-plus bodied with a laser-like streak of aforementioned citrus tang that persists to and through the lengthy, tang-laden finish and aftertaste. This pours well with arugula salad adorned with olive oil and crumbled chèvre or with Atlantic salmon pan-seared in butter and under a generous squeeze of fresh lemon, once it has been plated. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: July 16, 2022

The following 2020 Speck Brothers ‘Three of Hearts – Trois Coeurs’ Pinot Grigio is grown under sustainable conditions and is accredited by SWO. It was hand-harvested and whole-cluster pressed obtaining pure fruit flavours that persist through the entire tasting experience. This was cool-fermented in stainless steel vat and following fermentation the wine was blended with 5% hand-harvested, barrel-fermented chardonnay to add texture and roundness to the palate.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Three of Hearts – Trois Coeurs’ Pinot Grigio 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (20374) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of muskmelon and ripe apricot mingle with notions of baking spice on the nose. It dazzles the palate with fruit-driven flavours of tang-infused passionfruit, yellow peach and ripe pear. This is medium weight and fully textured with good mouthfeel and no lack of tang or pizzazz. Pour alongside chicken pot pie. (Vic Harradine)

New LCBO Release: Fall 2020

89 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Three of Hearts – Trois Coeurs’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (26109) 13.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of floral notes, red cherry/berry fruit and hints of earthy notes can be coaxed from the glass with a rigorous swirl. The palate reveals still-evolving tannin, sweet raspberry and racy pie cherry adorned with mixed spice and plenty of tangy acidity. Aerate/decant for three hours, or cellar for 12 months, pouring alongside roast chicken thighs generously dotted with © Hy’s seasoned salt. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

• The following 2021 Henry of Pelham ‘family estate’ Pinot Grigio was sustainably grown and accredited under SWO. Fruit was harvested then gently destemmed and whole-berry pressed in the absence of oxygen preserving the natural freshness of this wine. You’ll notice a pink hue to the wine. Pinot grigio is a clonal mutation of pinot noir so you will find purple-hued grapes on the bunch along with the lighter skin-coloured grapes.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘family estate’ Pinot Grigio 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (250217) 12.5% alcohol
Piquant aromas of savoury herbs and lemon curd mingle with lime pastille. It’s creamy-smooth with gorgeous mouthfeel and plenty of dry, lip-smacking flavours with Meyer lemon and Key lime adorned with honey dew melon, piquant spice and plenty of pizzazz. It’s medium-bodied with persistent palate flavours that replay on the finish and aftertaste. This is lovely sipped on its own and divine when paired with lighter-styled appetizers and salads. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Henry of Pelham ‘family estate’ Sauvignon Blanc is grown under sustainable conditions and is accredited by SWO. All grapes were gently moved by gravity after being whole-berry sorted and pressed in the absence of oxygen to preserve the natural freshness of this wine. The vineyards were established over twenty years ago.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘family estate’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (430546) 12.5% alcohol
Sharp aromas of lemon-lime, grapefruit and grassy notes give way to a tang-infused wash of palate flavours with ripe pineapple, white grapefruit and lemon curd predominating to and through the lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. It’s medium weight and textured with good mouthfeel and plenty of pizzazz from twist top to last drop. This is very accommodating with a number of dishes, especially pan-seared rainbow trout in butter with a generous squeeze of lemon juice, once plated. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Three of Hearts – Trois Coeurs’ Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (552562) 11.8% alcohol
Alluring strawberry/rhubarb pie aromas decorated with red raspberry and hints minerality abound. Palate flavours of freshly picked wild strawberry and tangy passionfruit are juxtaposed with sprigs of savoury herbs and ripe Mirabelle plum. This is medium bodied and nicely textured with good balance and a lengthy lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. The Speck Brothers suggest pairing with a gourmet white pizza with basil pesto, fresh mushroom, marinated artichokes and feta cheese. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Winery

• Click on this link to Featherstone Estate Winery. They have inside tasting and outside tables for tasting, curbside pick-up, online ordering, and FREE shipping within Ontario with a minimum order of $150.00 delivered to your home, licensed restaurant or office. You can also Phone 905-562-1949 to order one or more of the following 12 wines.

• The following 12 Featherstone Estate wines are all available via the winery.

• The following 2020 ‘Canadian Oak’ Chardonnay was aged in a combination of new and used local Canadian oak barrels, producing a 93 – point wine with a few years of cellaring potential. 100% chardonnay fruit was machine harvested and wild yeast fermented then aged in 100% Canadian oak barrels for 10 months with 90% 1 to 5 years old and only 10% new while stirred on lees monthly. 50% completed malolactic fermentation.

93 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Canadian Oak’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (149302) 14.0% alcohol
This presents with a shiny medium-gold shade and an intriguing nose of ripe yellow apple and peach enveloped in aromas of crushed fennel seed, coconut and freshly cut lumber. It coats the palate with a creamy textured flow of ripe orchard fruit and zesty flavours, complemented with a piquant, almost peppery trait and a beautiful persistent buttery-vanilla note developing at the very end. This is a serious, well-crafted, full-bodied chardonnay. This is superb now with coquille St-Jacques or baked ham with roasted butternut squash. (Louise Boutin)

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery Pinot Grigio 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (20599) 12.0% alcohol
Strawberry and watermelon aromas mingle with rose petals and hints of peppery spice on the nose. It’s a glorious stream of palate-flavours with wild strawberry, red raspberry and sugared and grilled ruby red grapefruit galore. This showcases gorgeous aromas and flavours, good balance, persistent purity of fruit and a moderately lengthy lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Sip in its own or pour with a plate of your favourite sushi or pan-seared calamari rings or scallops. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Old Vines’ Riesling was hand-harvested from some of the oldest Riesling vines in the VQA Niagara Peninsula. These vines produce very low yields of grapes that have tremendous depth and character. Once at the winery the fruit was hand-sorted and whole bunch pressed. The juice was transferred to stainless steel fermentation tanks and allowed eight hours of fining and racked off gross lees. It was fermented at a controlled, cool temperature of 13 ° C with wine kept on its lees until end of November, 2021. This wine may be consumed now and on to 2032 providing careful cellaring is provided during that entire time. This is very good value; pick up six or twelve.

93 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Old Vines’ Riesling 2021
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $24.95 12.0% alcohol
The subtle nose opens quickly releasing ripe orchard fruit aromas woven with honeycomb and delicate floral notes before enveloping the palate with concentrated flavours of racy lemon-lime, sweet apricot and a grounding mineral note. Medium bodied, perceptibly off-dry with balancing acidity, it offers a smooth yet refreshing mouthfeel with tangy citrus flavours lasting on the long finish. It’s delicious and easy to sip on its own, or pair with Thai lemongrass shrimp. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following 2020 Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Black Sheep’ Riesling was awarded a silver medal at the 2021 National Wine Awards of Canada as it reflects the impeccable handling by winemaker Dave Johnson and dazzling VQA Ontario 2020 vintage. Riesling fruit was hand-picked then hand-sorted and whole-bunch pressed then transferred to stainless steel fermentation tanks after reaching the winery. This fermented at a controlled cool temperature of 13 ° C and the fermentation was arrested with 20g/L of residual sugar while the wine remained on its lees until end of November, 2020 before bottling February 8, 2021. Drink now to 2030, with careful cellaring.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Black Sheep’ Riesling 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (80234) 10.5% alcohol
Discrete aromas of pear, honey and petroleum introduce a fresh off-dry white with delicious flavours of apple, pink grapefruit, ginger, a touch of honey and great minerality in the finish and aftertaste. This is medium-bodied with lots of versatility at the table. Try with a selection of sushi or tandoori chicken. (Louise Boutin)
• The following 2021 Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Phoenix’ Gewürztraminer was machine-picked, cold-soaked and pressed. Fermentation was achieved using select commercial yeast at a controlled temperature of 15 °C and was racked off gross lees immediately after fermentation completed.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Phoenix’ Gewürztraminer 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (519025) 12.0% alcohol
Beguiling aromas of rose petals and rosewater mix with piquant and exotic spice on the nose. It dazzles the palate with replays of the rosewater and piquant and exotic spice along with a lovely addition of racy ruby red grapefruit that’s been sugared and grilled. This is medium-plus bodied and creamy-smooth with excellent mouthfeel and lengthy lip-smacking finish and a mouth-watering aftertaste. What’s not to like? Pour with baked bone-in ham (not a spiral cut) basted with maple syrup and dotted with cloves that are partially inserted into the outside of the ham. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Red Tail’ Merlot was harvested, optically sorted and cold soaked on skins for 5 days then fermented with commercial yeast in the winery’s climate-controlled cellar. It then matured for ten months in French oak barrel coopered in Tonnellerie Siruge – Nuits Saint George, France. It also underwent 100% malolactic conversion.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Red Tail’ Merlot 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (131540) 12.0% alcohol
Cherry, blackberry and blueberry aromas meld with black pepper and baking spice before surging over the fresh and lively palate. Dry, medium bodied with well-integrated tannin, abundant red and dark berry flavours are joined by dried herbs and a distinct mineral note on the persistent finish. This is exceptional-value and perfect for a summer barbeque and on to 2027 with careful cellaring. (Lisa Isabelle)

• This Vintage-dated, Méthode Traditionnelle, Sparkling Wine is quite special with the winemaking duo of Winemaker Dave Johnson and Assistant winemaker Kevin Qin deserving a tip of the cap and a hearty pat on the back. Grapes were sourced only from estate vineyards. The Clone-78 chardonnay was hand-picked in to small picking bins then once at the winery it was hand-sorted and whole-bunch pressed, then transferred into stainless steel fermentation tanks. It was then settled for 36 hours of natural cold settling. The first fermentation temperature was set for 16 ° C and the wine was fermented to dry. The 2nd alcoholic fermentation was completed in bottle then disgorged in June 2020 and bottled July 2020.

93 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Premium Cuvée - Joy’ Sparkling Wine 2016
VQA Niagara Peninsula $34.95 (310334) 12.0% alcohol
This traditional method, 100% chardonnay sparkling fills the glass with a thick froth and lots of lively bubbles. The extended aging on the lees is clearly expressed on the nose with brioche and hazelnut notes along with peach and Meyer lemon zest. A beautiful soft, ample, meringue-like mousse fills the palate with delicious flavours of orchard fruit—peach, yellow and green apple—and beautiful pink grapefruit acidity taking you on a long zesty, mineral, refreshing finish. This expertly-crafted bubbly is worth every penny and will be perfect to start brunch or pour as a dinner aperitif. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2020 Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from 100% machine-picked cabernet sauvignon then run through an optical sorter transferred to open-top vats to cold soak for 72 hours. It was fermented by commercial yeast then matured in 100% neutral American oak barrels—five years old and older—for 10 months. The wine underwent 100% malolactic conversion. It also reflects the dazzling 2020 vintage in all Ontario VQA appellations; pick up an armful and drink now to 2025.

92 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $29.95 12.0% alcohol
A lovely nose of ripe red cherries and juicy black currant adorned with mocha and earthy notes precede a ripe, luscious mouthful of palate flavours with tangy bramble berry, black plum and notions of dark bittersweet chocolate to the fore. It’s deftly balanced, full of flavour with an underpinning of perceptible, soft, ripe tannin. It satisfies the palate with a medium-length finish and a mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with a prime cut of grilled beef or lamb, or pork back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario: Winery Only - available mid-May

• The following 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Wismer Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc is comprised of 100% cabernet franc from a single ‘Wismer’ vineyard with fruit averaging 24.1 ° Brix at harvest. Wow, a lovely high number for the sugar level in the unfermented grapes. Grapes were destemmed before primary fermentation in two large oak cuves. Then 12% of the wine was transferred to new French oak puncheons with the balance to more neutral (2nd to 6th use) and smaller French oak barriques. It was then blended back together into mature barrels to age for an additional three months before bottling in December 2021. The finished wine reflects the dazzling 2020 vintage in virtually every VQA Ontario appellation and sub-appellation.

91 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Wismer Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc 2020
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $26.95 13.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of juicy, dark cherry-berry fruit interlaced with grilled savoury herbs, baking spice and earthy notes abound on the nose of this juicy gem. It races over the palate with plenty of spicy, lip-smacking tang and nerve and verve acidity along with flavourful dark, juicy, palate fruit-flavours with dark Bing cherry, black currant and dark plum compote to the fore. It’s good to pour now after a two-hour aeration decant and pours well with grilled beef strip loin, gourmet sausage, or beef or pork fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

Best wishes, always, from Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

April 13, 2022 Newsletter

Special Feature - Malbec World Day – April 17th 2022

Why April 17th? – On April 17, 1853, the government of Mendoza took the first steps to make wine production an important industry focus for the country, which led to the establishment of the country’s first agricultural school to focus on winemaking.

The following 14 wines should all be available in LCBO retail stores by April 17, 2022 …

Special Feature - Malbec World Day – April 17th 2022

The following 14 wines should all be available in LCBO retail stores by April 17, 2022 - most are there now.

• Terrazas de los Andes is a Mendoza project owned by luxury brand LVMH with vineyards located throughout premium areas in Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley. Terrazas de los Andes selects grapes from its more than 500 vineyard hectares. Its northernmost and southernmost parcels are 925 km apart, offering a diverse selection of grapes for the winery’s portfolio. Winemaker and Technical Director Marcos Fernandez has been making wine in Mendoza for 22 years and has worked alongside mentors including Jorge Riccitelli and Paul Hobbs. The following Reserve Malbec was sourced from a wide range of terraced estate vines between 1100 M to 1200 M above sea level.

93 ✓ Value
Terrazas de los Andes ‘High Altitude Vineyards – Reserva’ Malbec 2018
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (29280) 14.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of exotic spice, peppery notes and sandalwood are juxtaposed with black licorice and dark purple plum. It blossoms with a glorious river of delectable palate flavours—bountiful, bombastic and chockful of pizzazz. Ripe juicy black Bing cherry mingles with black raspberry and black plum compote along with tang-infused passionfruit and cranberry jelly. This is medium-plus bodied with good balance, a perceptible tannin underpinning, touches of elegance and a crisp refreshing finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with a flank steak well seasoned with © Hy’s Seasoned Salt. (Vic Harradine)

• Trivento (which translates to Three Winds) celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2021. The winery’s vineyards stretch from Rivadavia in East Mendoza south to Tunuyán in the Uco Valley. Most recently, Trivento joined the D.O.C. Lujan de Cuyo with the purpose of supporting and developing malbec, Argentina’s flagship variety.

91 ✓ Value
Trivento Wines ‘Reserve’ Malbec 2020
Mendoza, Argentina $13.00 (160994) 13.8% alcohol
Aromas of wood smoke, sandalwood and red cherry/berry fruit waft easily from the glass. It envelops the palate with a wash of delicious palate flavours with black plum and wild strawberry interlaced with crunchy red cherry and plenty of tang and pizzazz. This is medium-bodied, balanced on a pin and sports persistent purity of fruit from first sip to final nip. Give this a go now with braised short ribs or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

• Third generation French winemaker Jean Bousquet founded Domaine Bousquet in the Tupungato district of Uco Valley in 1990. At the time, it was virgin territory – nothing planted, no access to water above ground nor electricity - and many felt it was too cold to for growing grapes. Domaine Bousquet has farmed organically since 2001. Today, the winery is managed by Bousquet’s daughter Anne and son-in-law Labib Ameri. Domaine Bousquet is now Argentina’s leading exporter of organic wines, exporting to more than 50 countries. The following Domaine Bousquet malbec, along with a few bunches of cabernet sauvignon and a few bunches of merlot, was sourced from an estate vineyard in the high desert that was the first planted by the Bousquet family in 2000 after arriving from France. The low-fertility sandy soil helps produce elegant wines. This wine was matured for ten months in French oak, adding to its allure.

93
Domaine Bousquet ‘Gran – Ecocert accredited Organic’ Malbec 2018
Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina $24.95 (21983) 14.5% alcohol
Black licorice and tobacco aromas are entwined with wisps of toasty oak and vanillin. It blankets the palate with a medium-plus bodied wash of cherry clafoutie and red raspberry jelly interlaced with savoury herbs and delightful dark, bittersweet chocolate. It showcases purity of fruit, deft balance of fruit, acidity and soft tannin along with firm texture and good mouthfeel. You wouldn’t go too far wrong by serving with beef fajitas and all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
Domaine Bousquet ‘Virgen – Natural - Ecocert accredited Organic’ Malbec 2019
Tupungato, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina $17.95 (21987) 14.5% alcohol
Beguiling aromas of pipe tobacco, sprigs of savoury herbs and blueberry crumble adorned with peppery spice and sprigs of fresh herbs give way to a full-Monty, teeth-staining river of drying tannin, tang and pizzazz that’s laced with fruit flavours of sweet ripe black plum, juicy ripe Bing cherry, mocha and just-picked blueberry. Aerate/decant for three hours before service and pour alongside a salt-seasoned flank steak. (Vic Harradine)

• Masi Tupungato is an organic winery developed in Argentina by Masi, one of Italy’s most well-known wine companies with origins in Valpolicella that date to 1772. Located in the Tupungato district of the Uco Valley, the winery combines the region’s natural elements with Masi’s Venetian heritage. Notably, Masi Tupungato’s Passo Doble blends Argentina’s flagship malbec with lightly dried Corvina Veronese.

92 ✓ Value
Masi Tupungato ‘Certified Organic - Passo Doble’ Malbec/Corvina Veronese 2019
Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina $15.05 (620880) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of raisins, red licorice and mixed field berry fruit abound adorned with mixed spice. It warms the palate with fruit-forward flavours of juicy black cherry, black currant and mulberry adorned with excellent acidity and tang plus deft balance and persistent purity of fruit through the lengthy, lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. What’s not to like? Pick up a few and serve with pasta in spicy tomato sauce with pan-fried Italian sausages or beef fajitas with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

• Established in 1888, Nieto Senetiner was founded by Don Nicanor who, along with a group of other families, built the winery in Vistalba, Luján de Cuyo. Nieto Senetiner’s three estate vineyards are located in the sub-zones of Agrelo, Alto Agrelo and Vistalba. Its original Vistalba estate vineyard, Finca Villa Blanca. They are also home to vines planted in 1900.

92 ✓ Value
Nieto Senetiner ‘Don Nicanor’ Malbec 2018
Mendoza, Argentina $16.95 (178657) 14.5% alcohol
This opens with captivating aromas of chamomile flower, rose petals and cocoa powder. It surges over the palate bold and underpinned by perceptible, but acceptable, tannin while the palate’s treated to blueberry flavour, dark bramble berry jam and plenty of pizzazz. This is medium-full bodied with pleasant palate flavours persisting to and through the lingering finish and aftertaste. Aerate/decant this for two hours and pour alongside grilled and smoked back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Bodega Argento Estate ‘Reserve – vegan-friendly – certified organic’ Malbec is part of Bodega Argento Estate winery that is Argentina’s largest certified organic wine producer. Their vineyards are planted in Mendoza’s most important traditional wine growing areas in the Prima Zona—Luján de Cuyo Maipu and Uco Valley. Their Head Winemaker, Juan Pablo Murcia, was recently singled out as Argentina’s Young Winemaker of the Year 2021. (you will receive a limited time $2.50 discount on the price of this wine shown below for each bottle purchased in the LCBO retail store from April 25th to May 20th 2022)

92 ✓ Value
Bodega Argento Estate ‘Reserve – vegan-friendly – certified organic’ Malbec 2019
Mendoza, Argentina $14.95 (363192) 14.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of mixed spice, red and black cherry/berry mingling with black plum and hints of blueberry. It asserts itself on the palate with a medium-full bodied, nicely textured surge with creamy-smooth mouthfeel showcasing tang-laden pie cherry and red currant adorned with ripe, juicy black Bing cherry and mulberry. There’s a soft ripe tannin underpinning and plenty of tang and pizzazz. The lingering finish and aftertaste is balanced and bountiful. Pour alongside BBQ burgers, steak or grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

• Bodega Norton was founded in 1895 with its first vineyard planted in Luján de Cuyo. Almost 80 years later in 1974, Bodega Norton registered the first bottle of malbec ever exported from Argentina. By 2014 Norton was exporting to more than 60 countries. Their winemaker, David Bonomi, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative oenologists. The wine below was hand-picked from select vineyards then matured in French oak barrels.

92 ✓ Value
Bodega Norton ‘Barrel Select’ Malbec 2021
Mendoza, Argentina $14.35 (400556) 14.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of black cherry and black currant reveal themselves with the slightest of swirls accompanied by tobacco, violets, exotic spice and grilled savoury herbs. It blankets the palate with a stream of pure ambrosia, gorgeous texture and mouthfeel and deftly balanced along with creamy smooth flavours of ripe juicy bramble berry and ripe black cherry underpinned by fine-grained tannin and hints of tang-laden passionfruit and mocha. Give this gem a go with Boeuf Bourguignon or steak and kidney pie. (Vic Harradine)

• Established in 1890, Pascual Toso is one of Mendoza’s oldest wineries with more than 400 hectares of vineyards in the Barrancas sub-region of Maipù, located in the heart of Mendoza’s Primera Zona. Bodegas Toso has built a reputation for producing some of the area’s best malbec and cabernet sauvignon.

90 ✓ Value
Toso ‘Toso Estate’ Malbec 2020
Mendoza, Argentina $15.20 (35170) 14.5% alcohol
Wood smoke, pipe tobacco and mocha aromas give way to a gorgeous array of palate flavours with pie cherry, black plum and bramble berry jelly intertwined with savoury herbs and tang-laden passionfruit and red currant jelly. This is medium-plus bodied with good texture and mouthfeel, deft balance and plenty of tang and pizzazz and perceptible tannin. Aerate/decant this for two hours before pouring alongside meat-laden pizza or prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value
Pascual Toso ‘Limited Edition’ Malbec 2020
Mendoza, Argentina $18.20 (162610) 14.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of violets and cherry/berry fruit mingle with black licorice and espresso roast. A balanced and beautiful stream of flavours coat the palate with a surge of ripe mulberry, black juicy cherry and nicely balanced tang-infused flavours of pomegranate and ripe black raspberry. This is medium-bodied and creamy smooth on the palate with an underpinning of still-evolving tannin and oodles of tang-laden pizzazz. Give this a go

• Trapiche winery was founded in Mendoza in 1883 and has become one of Argentina’s most recognized international brands. At home, Trapiche is regarded as one of Argentina’s leading industry innovators, pioneering new sites, partnering with premium grape growers and developing a talented new generation of winemakers. Notably, one of Trapiche’s most recent projects established its Costa & Pampa winery in Argentina’s new wine growing region of Chapadmalal, where vineyards are planted 6 km from the Atlantic coast in the south of Buenos Aires province.

93 ✓ Value
Bodegas Trapiche ‘PURE – 100% unoaked’ Malbec 2021
Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina $16.50 (370924) 13.5% alcohol
A gentle swirl gets wonderful results with sexy aromas of peppery exotic spice and blueberry pie decorated with notions of black plum compote and cherry clafoutie. It’s as smooth as silk on the palate with good balance and delicious flavours of peppery spice and cocoa powder boosted by black raspberry and dark-purple Damson plum jam. This has a fruit-forward approach with persistent purity of fruit to and through the lengthy dry finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. What’s not to like. Pour alongside Osso Buco or Steak Diane. (Vic Harradine)

• Grapes for the following wine were hand-harvested in early April from 20-year-old vineyards. After a lengthy maceration the wine was matured in oak barrels for 12 months. This is ready to drink now and over the next four years.

92 ✓ Value
Bodegas Trapiche ‘Broquel – Selected-Barrels’ Malbec 2020
Mendoza, Argentina $16.30 (234385) 14.0% alcohol
The usual suspects are found on the nose of this malbec with violets and black licorice peeking through along with black cherry and ripe mulberry aromas. A smooth and balanced river of palate flavours reveal themselves as ripe cherry, black raspberry, mocha and blueberry before persisting on the lengthy finish and aftertaste. The drying tannins are perceptible and acceptable. Pour this with a premium cut of beef grilled medium-rare on the barbecue. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✓ Value
Bodegas Trapiche ‘Medalla’ Malbec 2018
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (547869) 14.5% alcohol
This captures the palate with a tsunami wave of flavour, texture, tang, tannin and mouthfeel. It’s not for the faint of palate. Flavours of ripe dark fruit—cherry, blueberry, and black currant and plum—blanket the palate and persist through the dry finish and aftertaste. There’s good balance between fruit flavour, tang infused acidity and drying tannin. It sports a creamy-smooth mouthfeel with excellent acidity and pizzazz. It’s also vegan-friendly; pour with vegan lentil stew. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release April 16, 2022

Ontario: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Cabernet-Merlot is certified by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario. Low-yielding—3 tonnes per acre—hand-harvested fruit was sourced from estate vineyards on the Short Hills Bench, destemmed, sorted and partially fermented in oak tank with extended maceration. It matured in European and American oak, 30% new, then blended in an oak tank with total time in wood reaching ten months.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Cabernet-Merlot 2019
VQA Short Hills Bench $24.95 (395855) 13.0% alcohol
Charred toast, dark cherry/berry fruit and exotic incense aromas precede a tang-laden river of palate flavours with racy, crunchy pie cherry and passionfruit underpinned by still-evolving tannin. This needs patience and careful cellaring from now to 2023. This is medium-bodied with good texture and plenty of good reasons to be patient. If you lose patience aerate/decant this for three hours. ‘Patience is a virtue, Possess it if you can, Found seldom in a woman, Never in a man’ by William Langland in the late 1300’s. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

92
Wakefield ‘Jaraman’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Clare Valley and Coonawarra, Australia $24.95 (142398) 14.5% alcohol
Dark and brooding in the glass, aromas of dark cherry/berry fruit, mocha, mint and grilled savoury herbs waft easily with the gentlest of swirls. It envelops the palate with a bold and bountiful surge of endless flavours with crème de cassis, bramble berry and rich, luscious kirsch liqueur adorned with dark bittersweet chocolate and scads of tang-laden pizzazz. This showcases persistent purity of fruit and flavours, good texture and creamy mouthfeel. The finish lingers and provides a balanced and bountiful aftertaste, as well. Pour with all manner of meat you grill on the barbecue, from rack of lamb to a beef tenderloin roast. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Classics Collection Release: May 5th 2022 (available for LCBO purchase online on this date)

95 ✓ Value
Hewitson ‘The Mad Hatter’ Shiraz 2018
GI Barossa Valley, South Australia $41.95 (55608) 14.0% alcohol
This opens with aromas of black pepper, tapenade, blueberry and mulberry jam that waft easily from the glass with even a gentle swirl. It blankets the palate with a full-Monty stream of juicy black fruit—Bing cherry, bramble berry and black plum. This is full-bodied and fully flavoured from cork pop to last drop. There’s good balance, soft, fine grained tannin and enough tang and acidity to produce lip-smacking pizzazz on the finish and aftertaste as they linger with palate replays. Pour with Osso buco or lamb tagine. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: May 21st 2022 (available in LCBO stores in Vintages section on this date)

Classics Collection Release: August 4th 2022 (available for LCBO purchase online on this date)

98
Hewitson ‘Old Garden Vineyard – Vines Planted 1853’ 2018
GI Barossa Valley, South Australia $89.95 (13568) 14.0% alcohol
Every drop of this wine was sourced from estate-grown, 168-year-old vines at harvest; the oldest known vines of Mourvèdre on the planet. This is both powerful and refined—an iron fist in a velvet glove. Aromas of cherry, licorice and dark plum intertwine with mineral and floral notes. The palate’s enveloped with a fruit bowl of flavours with blueberry, ripe mulberry, black, juicy Bing cherry and mocha to the fore. This showcases persistent purity of low-yielding fruit to and through the finish and aftertaste, deft balance and a perceptible soft underpinning of ripe tannin. Lots of life ahead for this rare gem, Drink now to 2038 with careful cellaring. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Order the following two wines by the case for daily office, home or restaurant delivery direct by toll-free phone 1-888-399-1183, from the Rosehall Run Vineyards winery using this link -Rosehall Run - or pick it up from the cellar door on your next visit to the winery 1243 Greer Rd, Wellington, Ontario K0K 3L0 in Prince Edward County—it’s best to call first and make an appointment—it’s an easy approximately two-hour drive, or less, from the GTA or Ottawa via the 401 - Here’s a map.

• The following two Rosehall Run wines are also available at LCBO retail stores:

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run ‘Liberated - Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Ontario $15.95 (303776) 13.0% alcohol
A lifted nose of perfumed aromas will get you started on the right foot—ripe pear and red apple intertwine with Meyer lemon and notes of spring flowers. It dazzles the palate with a mouthful of delicious flavours with lemon curd and Key lime pie juxtaposed with grilled pineapple and blood orange. It’s balanced nicely with good texture and creamy smooth mouthfeel and a lengthy lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste—crisp, clean and refreshing. This certainly reflects the dazzling 2020 vintage in all VQA Ontario appellations. Pour this with clay-baked chicken or warm potato salad with dabs of mayonnaise and slices of smoked salmon and dill weed. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Rosehall Run ‘Defiant’ Pinot Noir 2020
VQA Ontario $17.95 (307769) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of beetroot, toasty notes, mixed spice and sandalwood precede a tang-laden gusher of passionfruit and red currant that’s rescued mid-palate with ripe flavours of red raspberry and red cherry. It’s well paced and flavourful from first twist top to final delectable drop. Give this a go with your favourite way of grilling beef. (Vic Harradine)

LCBO Limited-time offers

Save on these popular products from March 28 to April 24, 2022, regardless of the vintage purchased at LCBO stores.

• The following four white wines receive a $2.00 discount per bottle from the price shown on the wine reviews below when purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022

White Wines

94 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Black Sheep’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (80234) 10.5% alcohol
Cascading aromas of floral notes, piquant minerality and notions of petrol roll easily from the glass. It blankets the palate with off-dry flavours of sweetened Meyer lemon, and lime cordial that replay on the finish and aftertaste with lip-smacking and mouth-watering variations that add mineral and green apple to the mix. This sips beautifully on its own and you won’t find many better matches than spicy Asian cuisine like moo shu pork or General Tso’s chicken; and… you won’t find many high-quality rieslings at this price; stock up while you can. (Vic Harradine)

89
Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, South Island $19.95 (35386) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of gooseberry, canned peas and piquant spices/herbs jump from the glass. It’s racy and tang-laden showcasing quintessential Marlborough flavours with passion fruit, citrus and tropical fruit interwoven on the palate persisting through the crisp, refreshing aftertaste. Mid weight with good mouth feel, pour alongside chèvre or sea food—mussels, fish or calamari. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay
VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 (573147) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of baked apple, cinnamon and notions of caramel abound. It gently washes over the palate with a touch of sweetness accompanied by tangy flavours of lemon-lime and flinty minerality. This is medium-bodied with good balance and textured mouthfeel. It finishes lengthy, crisp and refreshing with hints of grapefruit pith on the aftertaste. Pour alongside skillet-seared Atlantic salmon. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Susana Balbo ‘Crios’ Torrontés is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores. This wine was sourced from hand-harvested 100% Torrontés fruit from Salta and Uco Valley in Mendoza at an elevation of 1700 meters above sea level. It was fermented at 12-14 °C and left on its lees for three months to enhance the wine. Susana Balbo is one of the planet’s premier wine makers. This white gem punches well above its price.

91 ✓ Value
Susana Balbo ‘Crios’ Torrontés
Cafayate Valley, Salta, Valle de Uco, Argentina $14.95 (1834) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of rosewater, piquant spice and tropical fruit provide segue to a crisp, clean and refreshing wash of tang-infused flavour with lemon zest, white grapefruit and hints of orange marmalade and mineral notes to the fore. It’s medium bodied with firm texture and mouthfeel and plenty of acidity and pizzazz from twist top to last drop. Pour on its own over the next 12 or so months or alongside pan-seared fish or grilled calamari, both under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wine

• The following six red wines receive a discount of $2 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

92 ✓ Value
Bodegas Lan Crianza
DOCa Rioja, Spain $16.95 (166538) 13.5% alcohol
Sexy aromas of exotic spice and incense interweave with soft, ripe, dark berry fruit and flecks of mocha. It bathes the palate with a rich and balanced wash of black raspberry and dark cherry flavours underpinned by ripe chalky tannin and framed by excellent acidity and purity of fruit. It’s medium-plus bodied with deft balance and a lengthy finish. Pour on its own, after a two-hour aeration/decant or alongside prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
Majella ‘The Magician’ Cabernet/Shiraz
Coonawarra, South Australia $19.95 (142018) 14.5% alcohol
Exotic spice, tobacco leaf, campfire smoke and black plum aromas on the nose, this streaks across the palate with red and black currant, sour cherry and oodles of tang. It’s medium-plus weight with generous mouth feel and a lengthy, mouth-watering aftertaste of red berry fruit and spice. Serve with red pizza or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

88
Meiomi Pinot Noir
Monterey/Santa Barbara/Sonoma, California $22.95 (130138) 13.7% alcohol
Ripe, black and red fruit and espresso roast aromas swirl from this medium-plus bodied, full-Monty, well-textured red. It envelops the palate with a river of sweet jammy flavours—black currant, ripe mulberry and Bing cherry—intertwined with kirsch liqueur, sweet vanilla and toasty/oaky bits. Palate flavours persist through the mocha-laden finish and aftertaste with a slight bit of tang. Pour with grilled pork back ribs brushed with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

92
Mitolo ‘Jester’ Shiraz
McLaren Vale, South Australia $23.95 (659607) 14.5% alcohol
This is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select stores. Dark and mysterious at first glance, it reveals itself with aromas of plum and cassis accented with cedar, mint and hints of black pepper. It starts with vibrant, juicy ripe cherry and black currant accented with dark chocolate and sweet spice, finishing warm with velvety tannins. Enjoy this full-bodied, rich and luscious red with spiced, grilled lamb chops. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Monte Zovo ‘Sa’ Solin’ Ripasso Valpolicella
DOC Valpolicella Ripasso, Italy $19.95 (650713) 14.0% alcohol
Campfire aromas mingle with gamy notes and dark berry fruit on the nose of this rich, ripe Ripasso. A surge of sweet ripe fruit and toasty/oaky notes blanket the palate adorned with spice, still-evolving tannin and crunchy red fruit—cranberry, currant and raspberry. It finishes dry with good tang and acidity. Paired and poured well with manicotti or pasta puttanesca sauce with garlic toast. (Vic Harradine)

90 🇨🇦
Tawse ‘Growers Blend’ Pinot Noir
VQA Niagara Peninsula $25.95 (130989) 13.0% alcohol
A lightly-hued red in the glass, it offers delicate aromas of piquant spice, cedar and raspberry on the nose. It streaks over the palate with tart tang and acidity borne of crunchy red fruit flavours—currant, pie cherry and passionfruit—along with wisps of sharp spice. Pour with lasagna, pasta in tomato sauce or meat-laden pizza with a spicy red sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following red wine receives a discount of $2.50 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

• The following three white wines receive a discount of $3.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

89
Beringer Vineyards Napa Valley Chardonnay
Napa Valley (84988) $26.95 14.1% alcohol
The nose leads with lemon, lime zest and red apple adorned with a pleasant floral note, hints of spice and toast. Dry and medium bodied with balancing acidity, the generous mouthfeel transports flavours of Meyer lemon, pear and Gala apple through the medium-long finish before a mineral note appears on the aftertaste. Sip on its own or alongside simply-prepared roast chicken. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Oyster Bay Chardonnay
Marlborough, New Zealand $19.95 (326728) 13.5% alcohol
Tropical fruit, citrus and sweet vanilla aromas abound on this tangy, generously textured, value-packed beauty. Rivers of nicely balanced flavour pour from the bottle with lemon chiffon pie, crisp grapefruit and spiced yellow plum to the fore. It’s mid weight sporting a mid-length finish that’s crisp and refreshing. Pour alongside grilled white fish, roast chicken or roast pork. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wine

• The following wine receives a discount of $1.00 per bottle purchased off the price shown below from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

85
El Gorú Monastrell/Syrah/Petit Verdot
DOP Jumilla $13.95 (443945) 14.0% alcohol
This red blend is dominated by tart acidity, piquant spice and crunchy red fruit—currant, cranberry, pie cherry. It’s medium weight with good texture and a lengthy, tart and racy finish and aftertaste underpinned by drying tannin. Aerate/decant for two hours before serving—give it a go with pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 4 red wines receive a discount off the price shown below of $2.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

89 🇨🇦
13th Street Gamay Noir
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (177824) 13.0% alcohol
Smoke, spice and gamy notes roll from this juicy, lively, rustic gamay. The palate’s treated to a medium-bodied, nicely textured mouthful of red and dark berry fruit robed in excellent racy acidity along with mixed spice and bacon notes persisting through the dry finish. For full enjoyment, aerate/decant a couple of hours before pouring. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores. The discounted price ($13.95) makes this worthy of picking up an armful.

90 ✓ Value
Rocca delle Macie ‘Riserva’ Chianti
DOCG Chianti, Italy $15.95 (111641) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of cherry/berry fruit and floral notes introduce a medium-bodied, nicely textured stream of lively, tang-laden palate flavour with red currant, ripe black cherry and passionfruit. This is primarily sangiovese with a cup or two of cabernet sauvignon and merlot. It’s medium weight, nicely textured with good red fruit flavour framed with tang and underpinned by wisps of soft tannin. A wash of pie cherry and red currant jelly races over the palate persisting through the finish and adorned with wisps of tannin on the aftertaste. Best poured with pasta in a tomato-based sauce; try spaghetti Bolognese or pasta puttanesca. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Kaiken ‘Seleccion Especial’ Malbec was sourced from 100% malbec hand-harvested from vineyards at 950 metres above sea level in Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo. Fruit was hand-picked while berries were hand-selected once in the winery. The juice was fermented in small tanks preserving the quality of fruit. Alcoholic fermentation and later maceration lasted about 20 days with half the wine matured eight months in French oak barrels and half left unoaked to preserve the fruit flavours and aromas and maintain silky tannins. The wine was lightly filtered by using cross-flow filtration and cartridges. It’s also a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores.

88 ✓ Value
Kaiken ‘Selección Especial’ Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina $15.95 (58339) 14.0% alcohol
This fruit-forward malbec boasts ripe cherry, berry and plum aromas entwined with notions of cured meat and herbs. Dry, medium bodied with silky tannins, flavours of juicy red fruit wash over the palate before finishing mid-length with smoke and herbs appearing on the aftertaste. Enjoy this exceptional-value red with pasta in tomato sauce. (Lisa Isabelle)

90 ✓ Value
Borsao ‘Tres Picos’ Garnacha
DO Campo de Borja, Spain $19.95 (273748) 15.0% alcohol
This gem has developed quite the following. Aromas of black plum, fig and savory herbs set the tone for a rich, hedonistic river of bramble berry and black currant robed in lip-smacking acidity adorned with peppery notes and fennel. There are ripe fine-grained tannin adding structure and interest. It’s nicely balanced with a fruit and tang-filled finish. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2 red wines receive a discount off the price shown below of $5.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

95 ✓ Value
Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi ‘Castelgiocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino
DOCG Brunello di Montalcino, Italy $53.95 (650432) 14.5% alcohol
This showcases purity of fruit, a deft tang/fruit balance and plenty of years ahead to mature—pop corks now, after a three-hour aeration/decant, or 2023 to 2026. Alluring, sexy aromas of baking spice, smoky notes, berry fruit, floral and cedar abound. A supple flow of full-flavoured ambrosia envelops the palate with crunchy red fruit—pomegranate and cranberry—interlaced with black currant, dark plum, spice and juicy Bing cherry. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouthfeel and a lingering finish underpinned by still-evolving ripe tannin. (Vic Harradine)
Other Wines and Spirits

• The following Jackson-Triggs Icewine receives a discount off the price shown below of $5.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

88 🇨🇦
Jackson-Triggs ‘Reserve’ Vidal Icewine
VQA Ontario $39.95 (389411) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
Mango and ripe yellow peach aromas unleash a gusher of sweet, honeyed flavour on the palate with honey-drizzled peach pie and candied apricot coating the palate and persisting through the finish. It’s full bodied and generously textured delivering a sticky, sweet aftertaste. Pour with quality blue cheese or fruit flan. (Vic Harradine)

• Aeroplan bonus = 50 Aeroplan miles for each bottle purchased in-store only and not online of the following wine from March 27 to April 23, 2022.

90 ✓ Value
Famille Perrin ‘Réserve’ Côtes-du-Rhône
AOC Côtes-du-Rhône, France $16.95 (363457) 13.5%alcohol
A Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre blend offering up a nose of cedar, green herbs and red berry fruit mingling with kitchen spice. It’s medium-bodied with a persistent wash of red currant and cranberry mingling with savoury herbs and spice. The aftertaste is dry with mixed field berry fruit and spiced black plum underpinned by a lick of supple tannin. Pour with grilled gourmet sausage. (Vic Harradine)

Enjoy the upcoming long weekend and take time to reflect on your blessings. Hopefully, you will make time to help others feel better about themselves.

Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

March 27, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over - One wine rang the 95 points and over bell in the following newsletter wine reviews: 2020 Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay earned 96 points @ $75.25 found under New in Classics Catalogue.
Over 40 – There are over 40 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers – There are 22 wines reviewed that have discounts up to $5 per bottle purchased. There is also one wine that gives bonus Aeroplan points when purchased in-store, but not when purchased on-line.
Vic Picks – Henry of Pelham ‘Special Select Late Harvest’ Vidal 2019 earned 93 points @ $19.95 found under Dessert Wine; Cygnus ‘Organic - Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava Non-Vintage earned 90 points @ $18.95 found under Sparkling Wine; 2020 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Good Kharma’ Chardonnay earned 90 points a@ $16.95; 2021 Malivoire Wine ‘Vivant’ Rosé earned 93 points @ $19.95 found under Ontario: Rosé Wine; 2018 Jim Barry ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz earned 94 points @ $22.95 found under Australia: Red Wine; 2018 Laura Hartwig ‘Block Nogales – Seleccion del Viticultor’ Cabernet Sauvignon earned 93 points @ $20.95 found under ‘New Vintage - in Vintages now’; 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay earned 93 points @ $21.95 found under New in Ontario Winery.

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over - One wine rang the 95 points and over bell in the following newsletter wine reviews: 2020 Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay earned 96 points @ $75.25 found under New in Classics Catalogue.
Over 40 – There are over 40 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers – There are 22 wines reviewed that have discounts up to $5 per bottle purchased. There is also one wine that gives bonus Aeroplan points when purchased in-store, but not when purchased on-line.
Vic Picks – Henry of Pelham ‘Special Select Late Harvest’ Vidal 2019 earned 93 points @ $19.95 found under Dessert Wine; Cygnus ‘Organic - Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava Non-Vintage earned 90 points @ $18.95 found under Sparkling Wine; 2020 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Good Kharma’ Chardonnay earned 90 points a@ $16.95; 2021 Malivoire Wine ‘Vivant’ Rosé earned 93 points @ $19.95 found under Ontario: Rosé Wine; 2018 Jim Barry ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz earned 94 points @ $22.95 found under Australia: Red Wine; 2018 Laura Hartwig ‘Block Nogales – Seleccion del Viticultor’ Cabernet Sauvignon earned 93 points @ $20.95 found under ‘New Vintage - in Vintages now’; 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay earned 93 points @ $21.95 found under New in Ontario Winery.

Vintages Release: April 2, 2022

Fortified Wine: Port

• The following10-Year-Old Tawny Port designation is not exactly what you might think. It’s invariably Port that has not been barrel-aged for exactly ten years, although the name implies it. Rather, it’s a wine that displays the deemed organoleptic characteristics of Port, barrel-aged for ten-years. Each Port is submitted and tasted blind by a panel of experts to determine if the wine meets the exacting standard. These designated 10-Year-Old Tawnies are almost always a blend of different vintages with the average age of the wine invariably exceeding ten years. The above concept and procedures also hold true for 20-, 30- and 40-year-old Tawnies.

93
Barros ‘10-Year-Old Tawny’ Port
DOP Porto $28.95 (964353) 20.0% alcohol
This light-ruby Tawny is fresh and lively throughout. Aromas of espresso roast, cedar and pipe tobacco fill the air. A balanced and bountiful stream of dark berry fruit, orange zest, figs and sweet treacle bathe the palate with wisps of nutty notes, raisins and caramel. It’s light-medium weight with good mouthfeel and a long, sweet-tinged finish. Pour with crème brûlée or pumpkin pie. (Vic Harradine)

Dessert Wine

93 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Special Select Late Harvest’ Vidal 2019
VQA Ontario $19.95 (395228) 375mL 10.0% alcohol
Aromas of honey-drizzled mango and caramel abound on the nose of this nicely balanced vidal blanc, Special Select Late Harvest gem. A succulent river of pure ambrosia blankets the palate on entry with sweet honey and ripe fruit flavours of apricot and peaches in syrup that is balanced by lemon citrussy notes on the back palate, finish and aftertaste. Pour with fruit flan dessert or on its own, as dessert. This is close to Icewine in enjoyment, without the usual price tag. (Vic Harradine)

Champagne

90
Georges Gardet ‘Cuvée Saint Flavy Brut’ Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne $46.95 (924654) 12.0% alcohol
This has an attractive nose of mineral, floral and heady citrus notes. There’s a lovely attack on the palate with a rush of white grapefruit and green apple flavours infused with spice and mineral nuances. It’s medium in weight and texture and offers a lingering finish that’s zesty and clean. There’s enough oomph for it to be paired with light appetizers and the attractive ‘Champagne price’ allows it to be served as the welcoming wine at larger gatherings. (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

88
Joseph Cattin ‘Brut Rosé’ Crémant d’Alsace Non-Vintage
AOC Crémant d’Alsace, France $19.95 (264572) 12.0% alcohol
This méthode traditionnelle bubbly opens with floral notes entwined with red cherry/berry aromas. A crisp, clean and refreshing line of bracing acidity carries flavours of lemon drop, Key lime and notions of red berry fruit across the palate infusing the lip-smacking finish. Pour alongside ceviche, freshly shucked oysters or pan-seared seafood under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Non-Vintage Cygnus Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava is, like all Cava, produced Méthode Traditionnelle—aka in the method of making Champagne with the 2nd fermentation in the bottle you purchase—as it is decreed in their wine laws that all Cava must be produced in this manner. This is a prime example of a value-laden sparkling wine.

90 ✓ Value
Cygnus ‘Organic - Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava Non-Vintage
DO Cava, Spain $18.95 (352856) 11.5% alcohol
This Méthode Traditionnelle, sparkling, organic gem was produced from the holy trinity of Cava grapes—xarel-lo 40%, parellada 30% and macabeo 30%. Lifted aromas of apple and pear interweave with mint and wisps of piquant ginger heralding flavours of apple, mineral/slate and strawberry wreathed in lemon curd and toasty notes. This has good mousse and a delightfully refreshing, lip-smacking aftertaste—certainly a cut above the norm. Pour with steamed mussels or pan-seared fish. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

• The following taste-good, feel-good chardonnay from Flat Rock Cellars donates a portion of sales to ‘Feed Ontario’ (formerly, Ontario Association of Food Banks) from all sales of this wine via the LCBO and the winery door—both in person and on-line. To date, over $45,000.00 has been donated. The goal of Feed Ontario and of Flat Rock Cellars is to assist in ending poverty and hunger in Ontario. The following wine has been certified sustainable and showcases the dazzling 2020 vintage for all VQA Ontario wine appellations.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Good Kharma’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (356873) 12.5% alcohol
Beguiling aromas of exotic spice, savoury herbs and floral notes abound decorated with wisps of apple and citrus notes. It blankets the palate with a laser-like streak of racy acidity expressed as white grapefruit, fresh lemon juice and plenty of pizzazz. This is clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to last drop. Don’t hesitate to order a case that you can stretch to last until this time next year. Pour this with fish, shellfish or roast chicken or, if you wish, sip on its own, it’s lip-smacking, delicious. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Malivoire Wine Company ‘Estate Grown’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO retail stores.

Ontario: Red Wine

Ontario: Rosé Wine

• The following Malivoire wine is a Vintages Essentials product always available in a number of select LCBO stores.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine ‘Ladybug’ Rosé
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (559088) 12.0% alcohol
Myriad red fruit aromas—strawberry, watermelon and ruby red grapefruit among them—precede a light-medium bodied, racy wash of palate flavours with passion fruit and red currant to the fore. It finishes with a blaze of lip-smacking tang reminiscent of the red grapefruit aromas on the nose. It’s clean, crisp and refreshing from twist top to last drop. It pairs well with skinless Atlantic salmon pan-seared in butter or ham and cheese crust-less quiche. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

• The following 2018 Durant & Booth Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 87% cabernet sauvignon/6% petit verdot/5% merlot/2% petite sirah source from across Napa Valley including Calistoga, St. Helena and Rutherford appellations that spent 10 months maturing in 25% new French oak.

89
Durant & Booth Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Napa Valley California $34.95 (16565) 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of dark cherry, plum compote with notions of milk chocolate, brown sugar and baking spice are gently revealed on the nose. Dry, medium-full bodied with silky tannins, ripe, dark fruit flavours, backed by a touch of piquant spice and sweet vanilla, last into the mid-length, warming finish. Enjoy alongside braised beef short ribs. (Lisa Isabelle)

Australia: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Claymore Wines ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ Shiraz was sourced 70% from GI Clare Valley and 30% from GI Limestone Coast with all being sourced from estate Shiraz, dry-grown vineyards and select grower‘s premium Shiraz vineyards.

92
Claymore Wines ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ Shiraz 2019
GI’s Clare Valley and Limestone Coast, Australia $24.95 (72652) 14.8% alcohol
Lively aromas leap from the glass with exotic spice and incense leading the charge followed up by toasty notes, ripe mulberry and oodles of red cherry/berry aromatics. A tang-infused stream cuts a wide swath over the palate accompanied by racy pie cherry and passionfruit along with plenty of wonderful pizzazz that softens to ripe dark cherry on the finish and aftertaste. There’s a soft, fine-grained underpinning of tannin that continues to smooth out on the finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with roast chook (Australian slang for roast chicken) or a feast of grilled snags (Australian slang for grilled sausages). (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Jim Barry Wines ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz was sourced from low-yielding shiraz vines grown on soils of rich loam over near-vertical sheets of rock. The now soil-filled passageways allow vine roots to work their way down to water from this nature-induced drainage system. It should be noted that Jim Barry Wines was proclaimed by James Halliday as 2020 Australian Winery of the Year; a much sought-after recognition and prize in Australia. They are also members of the prestigious, ‘Australia’s First Families of Wine’.

94
Jim Barry ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz 2018
Clare Valley, Australia $22.95 (998476) 14.0% alcohol
Bramble berry, blueberry and ripe mulberry intertwine with peppery spice flavours on entry to the palate before joining up with baking spice and dark bittersweet chocolate mid-palate. This showcases good balance, a supple underpinning of polished, fine-grain tannin and plenty of excellent acidity and touches of elegance. It’s medium-bodied, nicely textured with a lengthy and balanced finish and aftertaste. Pour with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

LCBO Seasonal Release; April 1, 2022

• ‘The Merry Widow’, Catharine, had an interesting background. She only lived a little over 44 years, but managed to outlive her philandering husband, Henry, and is now thought of by the present family as having had a little dance after his ‘sudden’ passing – hence the moniker, ‘Merry Widow’. This wine had three-hour skin contact providing the brilliant colour. It was fermented at 14 – 16°C in stainless steel tanks preserving the freshness of the fruit flavours.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Merry Widow’ Rosé 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (24972) 11.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of cherry/berry fruit and mixed spice precede a river of racy palate flavours with passionfruit, pomegranate and pie cherry to the fore. Palate flavours persist to and through the dry finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. This sustainably grown rosé is satin-smooth with excellent mouthfeel and oodles of pizzazz. It pours well with pan-seared Atlantic salmon under a generous squeeze of fresh lemon or with well-seasoned roast chicken or with pizza with white cheese dotted with smoked salmon and dill. Pick up a few at this price. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release; April 30, 2022

Vintages - Order by Online Only starting May 14, 2022

• The following 2018 Jim Barry ‘Single Vineyard – The Farm’ Cabernet - Malbec is a blend of 91% cabernet sauvignon planted in 1997 and 9% malbec planted in 1998 both sourced from plots on the Eastern Ranges from their Lodge Hill estate vineyard. This wine is to pay homage to the foresight of the iconic, late, great Jim Barry. The Jim Barry team of today is still basking in the limelight of being named ‘2020 Australian Winery of The Year’ by James Halliday’s Wine Companion. They are also one of the founding members of the über-exclusive Australia’s First Families of Wine; click on their name using the previous link to learn why they gained an invitation and see the other nine members and use Jim Barry Wine plus those nine other names as a compass for family-owned and managed wineries making fine wines from Australia.

93
Jim Barry ‘Single Vineyard – The Farm’ Cabernet - Malbec 2018
Clare Valley, Australia $29.95 (20881) 13.9% alcohol
Aromas of violets, earthy notes and ripe mulberry precede a structured mouthful of deep black cherry/berry flavours intertwined with mocha and wisps of earthy notes and sprigs of savoury herbs. It’s medium-full bodied with lots of mouthfeel and plenty of tang and acidity making for a dry finish and aftertaste. This is good to go now with at least another15 years of careful cellaring. Pour with grilled rack of lamb or a thick, premium cut of beef steak grilled medium-rare. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release; May 21, 2022

Vintages Release: TBD, 2022

• The following 2015 Heredad de Ureña ‘Santo’ Tempranillo 2015 was hand-harvested and sourced from estate-grown vineyards of 100% tempranillo grapes. It underwent traditional maceration with manual cap punching followed by malolactic fermentation and 10 months of maturation in 80% French and 20% American new oak barrels.

88
Heredad de Ureña ‘Santo’ Tempranillo 2015
Vino De La Tierra De Castilla y Leon, Spain $16.95 (629832) 13.0% alcohol
Darker in color than your typical Tempranillo, it also presents with unexpected aromas—purple plum, ripe blackberry, cola and a hint of menthol. A cooling and smooth stream of ripe dark fruit flavour travels the palate picking along the way sweet vanilla and oak notes trailing in the dry, fruit-forward finish. Not your typical medium-bodied Spanish red but it would pair well with gourmet burgers or grilled artisan sausages. Drink now. (Louise Boutin)

• The following wine was sourced from 95% Tempranillo and 5% from garnacha/graciano/mazuelo grapes that were hand-picked then destemmed before 18 days of alcoholic fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks then undergoing malolactic conversion then 24 months ageing in an even split between French and American oak barrels.

93
Bodegas Puelles ‘Gran Reserva’ Tempranillo 2008
DOCa Rioja, Spain $24.95 14.0% alcohol
Time has worked its magic in this Gran Reserva Rioja offering complex aromas—leather, sandalwood, liquorice, dry rose petal and a hint of vanilla. This is velvety smooth on the palate with flavours of red and black cherry plus tangy raspberry fully integrated with dry herbs and earthy notes. This value-packed medium-full-bodied mature red is ready to drink and will be outstanding with well-seasoned grilled lamb chops or a selection of aged hard cheese. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2016 Bodegas Puelles ‘Crianza’ Tempranillo is 95% tempranillo and 5% garnacha. It was hand-harvested and underwent alcoholic fermentation for 18 days after being destemmed. It then matured for 12 months in 50% French oak barrels and 50% American oak barrels.

90 ✓ Value
Bodegas Puelles ‘Crianza’ Tempranillo 2016
DOCa Rioja, Spain $16.95 14.0% alcohol
Dry cherry, cedar, caraway and dill aromas mingle harmoniously in this top-value Rioja. Sour cherry flavour takes the initial lead on the palate followed with blackberry, earthy notes and smoked meat character. Tannins are ripe but still compact, adding chewiness to the long, savoury, dry finish. This will further evolve with additional cellaring but if uncorked now, aerate/decant two hours and pair with mild sausage-stuffed roasted red pepper or mushroom risotto. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2021 Provolo ‘Costa del Monte’ is a blend of hand-harvested 60% müller-thurgau/40% chardonnay sourced from vines on average at 10-years old from vineyards at 900m above sea level planted in marl and limestone soil. The grapes macerated for six hours at 10 °C then fermented for 20 days at 10 – 14 °C in stainless steel vats then matured in stainless steel tanks followed by two months in bottle before release. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour, pick up a few.

90 ✓ Value
Provolo ‘Costa del Monte’ 2021
IGT Bianco Veneto, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
This interesting white blend offers pretty aromas of field flowers, honeydew melon, peach and fresh raw fennel. Nicely textured on the palate it carries beautiful fresh flavours in line with the aroma profile, finishing on lemon drops notes and mineral flair. Lots of value in this medium-bodied gem, ideal to sip on its own of pair with light-cream shrimp pasta. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2021 Cantine Monfort ‘Casata Monfort’ Pinot Grigio was sourced from 100% pinot grigio grapes. The price-quality ratio skews in your favour.

90 ✓ Value
Cantine Monfort ‘Casata Monfort’ Pinot Grigio 2021
DOC Trentino, Italy $17.95 12.5% alcohol
Muted on the nose at first, this young wine slowly opens up to aromas of ripe pear, honeysuckle and iodine. It shows a nice medium-bodied weight on the palate, offering yellow apple and pear flavours and a touch of pithy citrus and a nice saline note in the finish and aftertaste. This is a very nice expression of the pinot grigio style with great acidity that would pair really well with fish & chips or popcorn shrimps. (Louise Boutin)

89
Valpanera Pinot Grigio 2021
DOC Friuli, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
This freshly out-of-the-tank white from North-eastern Italy opens the door with aromas of pear, white almond, lemon peel and a flinty note. It goes down easily with pear and cantaloupe flavours quickly caught-up with pithy citrus and mineral characters trailing in the finish and aftertaste. This calls for a salty appetizer or main course. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2021 Agriverde ‘Vino Biovegan - Eikos’ Pecorino is 100% Pecorino. It’s certified vegan-friendly and organic and was bottled un-fined and un-filtered and only saw stainless steel tanks, no oak. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; make a multiple purchase.

90 ✓ Value
Agriverde ‘Vino Bio-vegan - Eikos’ Pecorino 2021
IGP Terre di Chieti, Italy $15.95 13.0% alcohol
This crisp organic white is un-fined and unfiltered making it vegan friendly. It pleases the senses with lovely aromas of green apple, pear, honeydew melon and a hint of flint. It shows good weight and a round texture on the palate, supporting delicious fresh orchard fruit flavours along with zesty lime and a touch of white pepper at the end. This is medium-body and ready to go with goat cheese crostini or pesto pasta. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2021 Agriverde ‘Vino Biologico – Riseis’ Pecorino is certified organic and has 100% Pecorino grapes that were fermented in stainless steel and saw no oak. What’s not to like? Stock up.

90 ✓ Value
Agriverde ‘Vino Biologico – Riseis’ Pecorino 2021
IGP Terre di Chieti, Italy $15.95 13.0% alcohol
Delicate white flowers aromas mingling with peach and zesty notes introduce a creamy flow of delicious flavours—fresh apricot, pear—coupled with pink grapefruit, a hint of balancing bitterness and white pepper pleasantly tingling the tongue while trailing a peachy note in the finish. This is an excellent medium-bodied white to pair with calamari or herb marinated chicken brochettes on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2012 Tenute Salvaterra, Cave de Prun ‘Classico – Amarone – Riserva’ is a red blend of 65% corvina/20% rondinella/10% corvinone/5% ‘other’ autochthonous grape varieties. The average age of all the vines is 19 years old. These grapes were fermented for thirty days at controlled temperature of 18 – 20 °C. This is drinking well now after a two-hour aeration/decant and on to 2028 with careful cellaring. If you cast bait in these pricey waters, reel in a few of these.

94
Tenute Salvaterra, Cave de Prun ‘Classico – Amarone – Riserva’ 2012
DOCG Amarone Della Valpolicella, Italy $63.95 16.5% alcohol
An impressive 16.5% alcohol level doesn’t get in the way of a beautiful exotic bouquet of dry cherry, fig, patchouli, sandalwood and clove. It glides on the palate with grace and total absence of heaviness, offering dry fruit flavour along with dark rum, mocha and mixed baking spice, all enveloped in a warm and soft blanket of polished tannins. This is full-bodied with elegance, bright acidity and the perfect red sipper for nibbling on hard aged cheese and roasted nuts. It would also be superb with slow-cooked pot-roast with root vegetables. (Louise Boutin)

• The following 2021 Vigna Madre ‘Iava - Organic’ Pecorino was sourced from 100% accredited organic, pecorino grapes from vines at 380 M above sea level with the yield per hectare at 100 quintals. This was fermented in stainless steel tanks and matured in bottle at a controlled temperature.

90 ✓ Value
Vigna Madre ‘Iava - Organic’ Pecorino 2021
IGP Terre Di Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy $16.95 13.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of jasmine and chamomile meld nicely with saline minerality and lemon tree floral notes. It spreads over the palate creamy smooth and nicely textured with good mouthfeel and laser-like stream of tang-laden mineral notes and Meyer lemon along with ripe and fleshy yellow peach and ripe nectarine adorned with sprigs of mixed dried herbs. It finishes crisp and refreshing. Pour alongside pan-seared scallops or prawns, or line-caught white fish grilled on the barbecue. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Vigna Madre ‘Becco Reale - Organic’ Pecorino was sourced from 100% accredited organic pecorino grapes from vines at 280 M above sea level with the yield per hectare at a low 80 quintals. This was fermented in stainless steel tanks and matured in bottle at a controlled temperature. Remove from your home refrigerator twenty minutes before serving. If you have a quick-read thermometer, 10 °C is a good service temperature.

93 ✓ Value
Vigna Madre ‘Becco Reale - Organic’ Pecorino 2021
IGP Terre Di Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy $18.95 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of musk melon, mint and apricot precede a fleshy, deftly balanced stream of palate flavours with ripe Mirabelle plum and white nectarine riding a delicious wave of blood orange and white grapefruit to and through the lingering, lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. This showcases persistent purity of fruit, savoury herbs, good texture and oodles of tang and pizzazz. Pour with prawn and chorizo paella or steamed lobster tails dipped in clarified butter under a squeeze of fresh lemon. You may want to pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

New Vintage - in Vintages now

• The following 2021 Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Goat Lady’ Chardonnay was sustainably grown in the VQA geographical-delineated region of Niagara Peninsula. It’s 100% Chardonnay fermented and aged in American oak for 7 months and underwent partial malolactic fermentation. In the property adjacent to where the three Speck brothers lived as children, a lady named Marion kept goats. She also put out warm bowls of goats’ milk for the boys’ pet dog, Boswell. It turned out Boswell proved himself a quick study and soon moved in with Marion.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Speck Brothers ‘Family Tree – The Goat Lady’ Chardonnay 2021
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (16792) 12.8% alcohol
Aromas of green apple and ripe pear mingle with apricot and Mirabelle plum in the nose. It blankets the palate with a barrage of pure ambrosia with flavours of caramel and baking spice interlaced with sweet white peach juxtaposed with racy lemon curd. This showcases exceptional- value for money, deft balance, creamy-smooth mouthfeel, a lingering dry and lip-smacking finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. What’s not to like? It’s ready to drink now and on to 2026. Give this a go with a pairing suggested by the winery—lobster linguini with tarragon cream sauce. (Vic Harradine)

93
Laura Hartwig ‘Block Nogales – Seleccion del Viticultor’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
DO Santa Cruz, Valle de Colchagua, Chile $20.95 (21951) 14.0% alcohol
A gentle swirl will bring on dark cherry/berry fruit aromas along with grilled savoury herbs and
hints of crème de cassis. It spreads over the palate with juicy flavours of ripe black Bing cherry and black plum adorned with sweet vanilla and boatloads of tang-infused passionfruit and plenty of pizzazz that persist through the finish and aftertaste. This is medium-plus bodied with excellent mouthfeel and deft balance throughout. It begins and ends with smooth, mellow fruit flavours and soft, fine-grained tannin that provides interest and a good underpinning. Pour with your favourite cut of beef that you grill on the barbecue. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• For daily home, office or restaurant delivery for the following wine is sold at the winery only, order online from this link Malivoire Wine Company with FREE shipping on orders of $99 or more, or $20 credited next business day towards delivery outside Ontario and Québec. Phone 905-563-9253 Monday to Friday 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays and noon to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday for information and for locals to access curbside pickup instructions. Their retail shop is now open - 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays, and noon to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. There are guidelines due to COVID-19 that change often, best to phone or email first (the website has a space to type and is linked to their email).

• The following 2020 Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay reflects the terrific 2020 Vintage in all Ontario VQA appellations. Grapes were sourced from three prime sites with 9.0% on September 10 from the Estate Vineyard/16.0% on September 18 from the Mottiar Vineyard and 75.0% from September 19 to 22 from the Moira Vineyard. Fruit was whole-cluster pressed with 68% of the juice finishing primary fermentation in stainless steel tank while resting on its lees and 20% rested in steel barrels and 12% matured in neutral French oak. The finished wine was blended in June 2021 and bottled two months later. The price-quality balance tips in your favour; pick up a half-dozen or so and you’ll receive FREE shipping to your office, licensed restaurant, or home.

93 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company ‘Small Lot’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of honeydew melon, floral and savoury notes add garnish to the predominantly orchard-fruit aromas of ripe pear, Mirabelle plum and ripe apricot. A medium-bodied, nicely textured, tang-infused stream of palate flavours showcase lemon curd, lime cordial and green apple decorated with baking spice. There’s excellent persistence and purity of fruit, deft balance and plenty of pizzazz on the palate, finish and aftertaste. In a word, this is delicious. Give this a go with your favourite sushi platter, line-caught pan-seared freshwater fish or Sunday dinner roast chicken with roast root veggies done in the oven around the chicken. (Vic Harradine)

LCBO Limited-time offers - Save on these popular products from March 28 to April 24, 2022

• The following four white wines receive a $2.00 discount per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022

White Wines

94
Featherstone Estate Winery ‘Black Sheep’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (80234) 10.5% alcohol
Cascading aromas of floral notes, piquant minerality and notions of petrol roll easily from the glass. It blankets the palate with off-dry flavours of sweetened Meyer lemon, and lime cordial that replay on the finish and aftertaste with lip-smacking and mouth-watering variations that add mineral and green apple to the mix. This sips beautifully on its own and you won’t find many better matches than spicy Asian cuisine like moo shu pork or General Tso’s chicken; and… you won’t find many high-quality rieslings at this price; stock up while you can. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wine

• The following six red wines receive a discount of $2 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

92 ✓ Value
Mitolo ‘Jester’ Shiraz
McLaren Vale, South Australia $23.95 (659607) 14.5% alcohol
This is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select stores. Dark and mysterious at first glance, it reveals itself with aromas of plum and cassis accented with cedar, mint and hints of black pepper. It starts with vibrant, juicy ripe cherry and black currant accented with dark chocolate and sweet spice, finishing warm with velvety tannins. Enjoy this full-bodied, rich and luscious red with spiced, grilled lamb chops. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following red wine receives a discount of $2.50 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

• The following three white wines receive a discount of $3.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

Red Wine

• The following wine receives a discount of $1.00 per bottle purchased off the price shown below from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

• The following 4 red wines receive a discount off the price shown below of $2.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

• The following 2 red wines receive a discount off the price shown below of $5.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

• The following Jackson-Triggs Icewine receives a discount off the price shown below of $5.00 per bottle purchased from March 28 to April 24, 2022.

• Aeroplan bonus = 50 Aeroplan miles for each bottle purchased in-store only and not online of the following wine from March 27 to April 23, 2022.

Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 1/2/23 Dave Isaacs 1/2/23

March 14, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

Don’t miss taking a look at the many wines from New in Ontario Wineries in this newsletter and if you like what you see, you can easily go back to the most recent newsletters archived and dated February 26, 2022 and February 14, 2022 and you’ll find quite a few there that are still stocked in the LCBO, as well. Happy hunting!

95 points and over - One wine rang the 95 points and over bell in the following newsletter wine reviews: 2020 Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay earned 96 points @ $75.25 found under New in Classics Catalogue.
Over 50 – There are over 50 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers – There are 26 wines reviewed that have discounts up to $5 per bottle purchased. There are also two wines that give bonus Aeroplan points when purchased in-store, but not when purchased on-line.
Vic Picks – 2019 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Cabernet-Merlot earned 94 points @ $39.95 found under Ontario: Red Wine; 2021 Zuccardi ‘Serie A’ Torrontés earned 92 points $16.95 found under Argentina: White Wine; 2018 Santa Ema ‘Family Estate - Gran Reserva’ Carmenère earned 92 points @ $18.95 found under Chile: Red Wine; 2019 Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted – Red’) earned 92 points @ $19.95 found under New in LCBO; 2020 Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola - Limited Edition - Red’ Baco Noir – Merlot earned 92 points @ $18.95 found under Upstream in winecurrent; 2020 Finca Fella ‘Cala Rey’ Tempranillo-Syrah earned 88 points @ $10.75 found under New in LCBO.

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over - One wine rang the 95 points and over bell in the following newsletter wine reviews: 2020 Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay earned 96 points @ $75.25 found under New in Classics Catalogue.
Over 50 – There are over 50 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers – There are 26 wines reviewed that have discounts up to $5 per bottle purchased. There are also two wines that give bonus Aeroplan points when purchased in-store, but not when purchased on-line.
Vic Picks – 2019 Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Cabernet-Merlot earned 94 points @ $39.95 found under Ontario: Red Wine; 2021 Zuccardi ‘Serie A’ Torrontés earned 92 points $16.95 found under Argentina: White Wine; 2018 Santa Ema ‘Family Estate - Gran Reserva’ Carmenère earned 92 points @ $18.95 found under Chile: Red Wine; 2019 Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted – Red’) earned 92 points @ $19.95 found under New in LCBO; 2020 Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola - Limited Edition - Red’ Baco Noir – Merlot earned 92 points @ $18.95 found under Upstream in winecurrent; 2020 Finca Fella ‘Cala Rey’ Tempranillo-Syrah earned 88 points @ $10.75 found under New in LCBO.

Vintages Release: March 19, 2022

Fortified Wine

Portugal: Port

• Fonseca is now in its fifth generation of winemakers of the Guimaraens family who are revered in Portugal and also among Port-lovers world-wide. Late Bottled Vintage (those in the know call it ‘LBV’ now that you also know it, you can call it that, too) LBV Port is bottled after at least four to six years of aging in wooden barrel and, like Vintage port, was sourced from a single vintage. However, LBV Port is ready to drink upon purchase. This wine was not fined nor filtered so deserves to be decanted and poured through a strainer while being poured into the decanter before serving.

92
Fonseca ‘Late Bottled Vintage Port’ 2015
Product of Portugal $23.95 (87551) 20.0% alcohol
Aromas of rich and luscious black fruit abound on the nose of this dazzling well-priced, high-octane Port. It’s smooth and mellow on the palate showcasing ripe black plum compote, sweet black cherry, figs, raisins and mocha and an underpinning of acceptable soft, ripe tannin on the palate, dry finish and aftertaste. You really can’t go wrong here given the price-quality balance that tips well in your favour. This is often opened after a meal with a few cheeses—Stilton is a blue-veined cheese that’s a match made in heaven as are shards of Parmigiano Reggiano. (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

90
Ferrari Trento Sparkling Wine, Brut, Non-Vintage
DOC Trento, Italy $24.95 (352153) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of tropical fruit, floral notes and baked apple introduce a mid-weight, nicely textured profusion of bubbles riding over the palate garnished with a tapestry of flavour—leesy/baked brioche notes interweaving with apple, poached pear and lemon curd—balanced and persistent through the lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Cave Spring Estate Chardonnay Musqué
VQA Beamsville Bench $17.95 (246579) 13.5% alcohol
Crafted from a chardonnay grape clone, this aromatic 100% musqué varietal charms with its ripe fruit aromas—pineapple, peach and pear plus citrus and white blossom notes. This stainless steel fermented, medium-bodied white is round and ample on the palate showcasing mature orchard fruit flavours coated with a touch of honey and good balance of acidity resembling well-made viognier. A gorgeous wine to drink now with grilled sushi or seafood. (Louise Boutin)

Ontario: Red Wine

94 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Cabernet-Merlot 2019
VQA Short Hills Bench $39.95 (616433) 13.2% alcohol
Lifted aromas of black plum, dark cherry and bramble berry abound. It captures the palate on entry with red fruit—currants and passion fruit—mingling with generous acidity and plenty of pizzazz. This showcases a supple underpinning of tannin and plenty of fruit that is, for now, slightly overshadowed by the still-evolving tannin. Give this another four to five years of careful cellaring or pour now after a four-hour aeration/decant with a premium cut of well-seasoned beef (© Hy’s of Canada - Seasoning Salt) grilled medium-rare. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: White Wine

92 ✓ Value
Zuccardi ‘Serie A’ Torrontés 2021
Cafayayate, Salta, Mendoza $16.95 (389262) 14.5% alcohol
This is a stellar example of Argentina’s flagship, and most planted, white grape variety. Distinctive aromas of nectarine, Mirabelle plum and floral notes rise from the glass with even the slightest swirl. It sports lively flavours that envelop the palate—citrus notes of grapefruit and lemon provide a gorgeous base of tang and crisp, refreshing acidity soon joined by hints of ripe peach and nectarine. This is medium-plus weight with delightful, creamy smooth mouthfeel on the palate and through the finish and aftertaste. It also showcases persistent purity of fruit, deft balance and pleasing lengthy aftertaste. Pour with lightly spiced Asian food or almost any manner of fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

• The following 2018 Catena Cabernet Sauvignon is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores. This 100% cabernet sauvignon is sourced across Catena’s high-mountain vines located in Primera Zona, Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco.

91 ✓ Value
Catena Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (985002) 13.5% alcohol
The price-quality ratio swings wildly in your favour here. Tobacco, dark cherry/berry fruit and grilled savoury herb aromas abound. This gorgeous cab envelops the palate with a plush, full-bodied swath of ripe black plum, juicy black cherry and hints of cassis and mocha. It’s complex, deftly balanced and dense with a lengthy finish enhanced by lip-smacking tang and acidity. Give this a go with grilled gourmet sausage, steak or backyard burgers. (Vic Harradine)

Chile: Red Wine

• The following Concha y Toro is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select stores.
91
Concha y Toro ‘Marques de Casa Concha’ Cabernet Sauvignon
DO Puento Alto $22.95 (337238) 14.5% alcohol
This is a glorious wine to sip, pair with food or stick in the cellar for enjoyable drinking over the next few years. Dark toast and spiced field berry on the nose, the palate-coating succulent flavours—cassis, ripe boysenberry and Bing cherry—are underpinned by a firm chalky tannin structure and excellent moderating acidity. It’s mid weight, generously textured and finishes lengthy and luxurious, chockfull of warm ripe fruit flavour. (Vic Harradine)

• The fruit for the following 2018 Santa Ema ‘Family Estate - Gran Reserva’ was sourced for the very heart of the Valle Del Cachapoal. Carmenère grapes were fermented in stainless steel tank for seven days at 30 °C with post fermentation maceration taking six days. Following malolactic conversion, the wine matured in 100% French and American barrels for 8 to 10 months. The price-quality ratio is skewed well in your favour. Stock up.

92 ✓ Value
Santa Ema ‘Family Estate - Gran Reserva’ Carmenère 2018
Valle Del Cachapoal, Chile $18.95 (21981) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of wild herbs and spices mingle with mocha and dark cherry/berry fruit. It blankets the palate with a gusher of flavours—black currant, blueberry and hints of dark bittersweet chocolate that persists to and through the finish and aftertaste. It’s medium-plus bodied with good concentration, texture and balance. It’s ready and rarin’ to go with a lovely underpinning of soft, ripe tannin. Pour with a cut of premium beef that’s grilled rare to medium-rare. (Vic Harradine)

South Africa: Red Wine

89
Cathedral Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
WO Paarl, South Africa $17.95 (328567) 13.0% alcohol
Smoky, earthy and dried cherry aromatics waft from the glass of this medium-bodied red. There are a good deal of sweet, black, ripe cherry and plum flavours with hints of chocolate and tar in the involved flavour profile. All this is wrapped around perceptible tannins and oaky notes that may need some time to quiet down. Drink now with rare or medium-rare pepper steak. (Vic Harradine)

• New in LCBO Vintages Classics Catalogue: Order on-line beginning April 7/22 @ 8:30 AM

• The following 2020 Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay was sourced from the highest vines growing at 500m above sea level with all facing south. The vines are also planted at a dense five or six thousand root stocks per Ha resulting in premium hand-harvested fruit delivered at low yields. After fermentation the wine matured for seven to eight months in new oak barrels with regular stirring. After a light fining, the unfiltered wine is bottled and left to rest for several months in bottle before being released. If you cast bait in these high-end waters, reel in a case of six or more.

96 🇨🇦
Gérard Bertrand, Domaine de L’Aigle ‘Royal’ Chardonnay 2020
AOP Limoux, France $75.95 (23919) 14.0% alcohol
Elegant, alluring aromas of baking spice, toasty notes, orchard fruit and almonds precede a dazzling surge of palate flavours with piquant spice, racy lemon zest plus sweet yellow plum and ripe white peach to the fore. This showcases deft balance, persistent purity of fruit, good mouthfeel and creamy-smooth texture, ending with a monumentally long and delectable finish and aftertaste. Good to go now and on to +2033. My highest tasting compliment; it took all my resolve to spit rather than swallow this wine. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

• The following 2019 Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted – Red’) was sourced from 62% gamay/24% merlot/9% cabernet franc/5% pinot noir grapes then aged separately in oak barrel with the final selection made by numerous and rigorous trial selections.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted – Red’) 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (86918) 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of dark berry fruit, mixed spice and wisps of cassis introduce a medium-plus bodied, well-balanced stream of palate flavours with black currant and gamy notes joined by tang-laden, excellent pie cherry to the fore. This is underpinned by soft, fine-grain tannin throughout. Pour on its own or with grilled steak or grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Flat Rock Cellars (Twisted-White) is a popular Vintages Essentials wine that was sourced from 80% riesling/10% gewürztraminer/10% chardonnay with each variety contributing to this crisp, refreshing gem.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Twisted-White’ 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (1578) 11.0% alcohol
Aromas of piquant spice, rosewater and citrus abound. An off-dry surge of pure ambrosia rolls over the palate with deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and pizzazz to and through the crisp and refreshing finish and aftertaste that adds mouth-watering lemon curd and lip-smacking Key lime to the palate flavours of honeydew melon, white peach and ripe apricot. What’s not to like?
Pour with medium-spiced Asian cuisine or your favourite sushi platter with pickled ginger and wasabi. (Vic Harradine)

88 ✓ Value
Finca Fella ‘Cala Rey’ Tempranillo-Syrah 2020
Product of Spain $10.75 (22877) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of tobacco leaf, red and black cherry/berry fruit and grilled savoury herbs abound on the nose of this well-paced, well-priced Spanish red. It’s warm on the palate with oodles of tang and pizzazz along with an underpinning of still-evolving tannin. Palate flavours of dark black cherry and black currant persist to and through the finish and aftertaste. Aerate/decant an hour or two and pour with beef and mushroom pot pie or backyard burgers over spring, summer and fall. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

• LCBO Release for the next two Pelee Island wines: approx. May 16, 2022

• The following two wines are available now for pick up at the Pelee Island Winery in Kingsville ON or order online from the winery to be delivered to your home, office or licensed restaurant. Use the link to the winery above to order online and use curbside pick-up or to have delivered to your home, office and licensed restaurant. All orders over $100 for delivery in Ontario receive FREE shipping and all orders to ship Canada-wide over $200 receive FREE shipping except the following - QC, NL, NU, YK.

• The following 2020 Pelee Island Winery ‘Limited Edition - Red’ Baco Noir – Merlot is a blend of 60% baco noir/40% merlot with both varieties certified as Sustainable and certified Vegan-friendly.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola - Limited Edition - Red’ Baco Noir – Merlot 2020
VQA Ontario, Pelee Island $18.95 (265390) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of exotic incense, mixed spice and sprigs of savoury herbs are adorned with ripe mulberry, black currant and hints of black plum. A delightful river of red currant and pomegranate is juxtaposed with ripe, juicy black Bing cherry and crème de cassis on the palate and it persists to and through the dry finish and lengthy aftertaste. It’s medium-full bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel, wonderfully balanced and a lingering delicious aftertaste that’s underpinned by ripe, soft tannin. Pour with grilled red meat under a judicious rub of seasoned salt. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola - Limited Edition - White’ Pinot Gris-Auxerrois-Pinot Blanc is a blend of 33.5% pinot gris/33.5% auxerrois/33% pinot blanc that’s been certified as Sustainable and certified Vegan-friendly.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Pelee Island Winery ‘Lola-Limited Edition-White’ Pinot Gris-Auxerrois-Pinot Blanc 2020
VQA Ontario, Pelee Island $17.95 (256510) 11.5% alcohol
Delicate aromas of lily of the valley, citrus and notes of earthy mineral notes precede clean and refreshing palate-flavours of lemon-lime cordial and hints of pineapple that ride on a laser-like beam of citrus acidity with plenty of pizzazz from twist top to last drop. The finish and aftertaste replay the palate flavours; clean, crisp and refreshing. Pour with your favourite sushi platter, freshly shucked oysters or steamed mussels with fries. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Konzelmann Estate Winery was one of the early adopters in Niagara for vitis vinifera vines. You may purchase the six following wines from this website link -Konzelmann Estate Winery – and they will deliver to your home, licensed restaurant or office. You can also phone them during business hours – 905 - 935-2866.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery Sparkling Rosé - Méthode Cuve Close - Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $19.95 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of apple and pear interlaced with red cherry and hints of red currant give way to a surge of flavours on the palate with tang-infused black Bing cherry and black plum to the fore. This delivers a profusion of bubbles; first in the mousse then in seemingly endless streams of bubbles winding their way to the top of the liquid in the glass. It’s deftly balanced with wisps of sweetness then a wonderful tang-laden finish and aftertaste. Pick up a few; the price quality balance tips well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Vidal, ‘Golden Vintage’ 2018
VQA Ontario $14.95 11.5% alcohol
This opens with lovely aromas of pineapple, floral notes, pear and apple. It envelops the palate with streams of dazzling flavours—lemon chiffon pie, grilled pineapple and Bosc pear. This is medium-plus bodied with satin-smooth mouthfeel and oodles of pizzazz. It bows out in a crescendo on the lingering mouth-watering finish and aftertaste with piquant spice and plenty of tang-infused citrus fruit. Pour on its own or with chicken Cordon Bleu. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Vidal Blanc 2018
VQA Ontario $14.95 11.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of nectarine and mango precede dazzling light-medium bodied palate flavours of ripe yellow peach and Mirabelle plum juxtaposed with tang-infused lemon pastille and passionfruit. This showcases persistent purity of fruit, excellent balance, creamy-smooth mouthfeel and a lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. What’s not to like? Pour with moules et frites or grilled calamari rings with French fries. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Reserve Series – Barrel-Aged’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 12.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of toasty oak, green apple and ripe pear abound on the nose of this French oak-barrelled beauty. It’s deftly balanced with excellent fruit flavours of ripe peach, ripe pear and Delicious apple on the palate, adorned with baking spice and toffee notes, soon joined by tangy flavours of blood orange, lemon curd and notions of mineral notes on the finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside festive fowl with all the fixings or crown roast of pork. (Vic Harradine)

93 🇨🇦
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Reserve Series’ Merlot - Shiraz 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 13.0% alcohol
Pipe tobacco, exotic sandalwood and pomegranate aromas abound. It rolls over the palate with delicious flavours of tang-laden pie cherry, grilled savoury herbs and ripe juicy black currant robed in piquant spice and wisps of black licorice. This is medium-plus bodied with textured mouthfeel and a long finish and aftertaste. It’s drinking well now and pours well with shepherd’s pie, tourtière or grilled steak. There’s good value here. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann estate winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Baco Noir Semi-Dry 2020
VQA Ontario $14.95 11.5% alcohol
Gamy and dark cherry/berry fruit aromas dominate the nose in this gem. It rolls over the palate with a surge of smooth mellow flavours with maraschino cherry, bramble berry pie and pomegranate melding nicely with finish and aftertaste flavours of tangy red cherry, dark bittersweet chocolate and plenty of pizzazz from twist top to last drop. VQA wineries in Ontario are a hot bed of classy Baco Noir and this is certainly an up and comer that deserves attention. Pick up an armful and pour alongside grilled burgers, battered and fried chicken wings or your favourite pizza. (Vic Harradine)

• Order the following wine online for home, office or restaurant: delivery in Ontario is FREE on orders of $100 or more from this link - Vineland Estates Winery. The wine shop is open for Curbside Pickup 7 days a week, 11am-5pm. Purchase online from the above link or place your order at 905.562.7088 ext. 124. Restaurant is open for Takeout Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 6pm. Please order directly with the Kitchen at 905.562.7088 ext. 165. Best to check with the winery first as COVID-19 rules and regulations often change.

• The following 2019 Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling was sourced from the oldest commercial riesling vines in Canada. They were 42-years old when fruit for this wine was sourced. They were first planted in Ontario by Hermann Weis of Weingut St. Urbans-hof winery in Mosel, Germany and are now known generally as the ‘Weis clone’. An iconic viticulturist, Mr. Weis sadly passed away 2019. We all owe him a doff of the cap and a sincere thank you as it’s now the most planted riesling clone in Canada having delivered myriad wine trophies and awards here and abroad.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling 2021
VQA Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (38117) 8.0% alcohol
Mineral and herbal notes waft from the glass soon joined by floral notes and honey-drizzled, poached pear after a gentle swirl. It envelops the palate with a surge of pure ambrosia made up of tangy lime cordial and lip-smacking lemon curd and balanced by ripe apricot, sweet, grilled pineapple and notions of lemon chiffon pie. This is a perennial favourite at a very low price - now to March 27, 2022. Pick up a few and give this table-friendly riesling a chance to show off with your favourite spicy Asian dish. (Vic Harradine)
Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: April 2, 2022

LCBO Limited Time Offers:

• The following four white wines will receive a $2.00 discount for each bottle purchased from the price shown below from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

White Wines

87 ✓ Value
Anselmi ‘San Vincenzo’
IGT Veneto, Italy $17.95 (948158) 12.5% alcohol
An über-savoury nose of grassy notes and sprigs of savoury herbs dressed in piquant spice provide segue to this garganega blend. The mid-weight, lightly textured stream of palate-pleasing flavour skips over the palate with flavours of lemongrass, pear and wisps of apple persisting through the mid-length finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own as a pleasant pre-dinner sipper. (Vic Harradine)

• The following winery, Colombia Crest, is owned by Chateau Ste Michelle. Twenty-two percent of the fruit was pressed and settled in stainless steel, the balance was aged and hand-stirred, once-a-week in one- to three-year-old French and American oak barrel for nine months. The following is a fabulous wine at a deep discount. Pick up a few.

92 ✓ Value
Columbia Crest Chardonnay
Columbia Valley, Washington State $17.95 (462846) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of spiced apple, pear and apricot introduce a gorgeous mouthful of ginger-infused tropical fruit and lemon pie filling. This is mid-plus weight with generous mouthfeel and oodles of charm. It finishes lengthy and luxurious with loads of fruit crowned with excellent moderating acidity. Pour with roast bird, pan-seared, firm fish or crown roast pork. (Vic Harradine)

• The following two white wines receive a discount of $3.00 per bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

• The following Sonoma Cutrer ‘Russian River Ranches’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine—always available in select LCBO stores.

91
Sonoma Cutrer ‘Russian River Ranches’ Chardonnay
Sonoma Coast, California $27.95 (608653) 14.2% alcohol
Baking spice, oak, pear and apple aromas abound. A medium-full bodied, generously textured surge of tangy lemon curd and Key lime interweave with baked apple and spice along with hints of grapefruit pith on finish and aftertaste. This has come around nicely since last tasted. Pour with roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wines

• The following twelve red wines receive a $2.00 discount for each bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

90 ✓ Value
Dandelion Vineyards ‘Lionheart of the Barossa’ Shiraz
Barossa, Australia $21.95 (167189) 14.5 % alcohol
Produced from old-vine shiraz, many over 100 years of age, this value-laden beauty spent 18 months in French oak barrel and was left unfiltered before bottling. Abundant dark fruit aromas—blackberry, cassis and black currant—sprinkled with anise and baking spices rise easily from the glass. Dry, full bodied with velvety tannin, succulent dark fruit flavours dominate the palate adorned with spice and earthy notes while a note of mint permeates the long finish. Pair with herb-encrusted rack of lamb. (Lisa Isabelle)

• The following 2017 Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select stores.

90 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache 2017
AOP Languedoc, France $16.95 (413237) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of black currants, black licorice and tarry notes abound. It rolls over the palate with crunchy red and black fruit—plum, currant and passionfruit—framed by tangy acidity and underpinned by soft, ripe tannin. Medium-full bodied and nicely textured, this is enhanced with a two-hour aeration/decant. Versatile at the table, pour alongside burgers, gourmet sausage, red pizza or pasta in Bolognese sauce. The price-quality proposition favours the purchaser/imbiber. (Vic Harradine)

92
J. Lohr ‘Seven Oaks’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Paso Robles, California $23.95 (656561) 14.0% alcohol
This is delicious, very good value, deftly balanced and smooth and mellow from cork pop to last drop. This opens with alluring aromas of black cherry, cassis and notions of sandalwood. It continues to tempt with palate flavours of black currant and black plum, ripe, but not jammy, that are adorned with excellent tang and hints of piquant spice. This is lengthy, balanced and beautiful on the finish and aftertaste. Pour with a prime cut of beef, grilled medium rare. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
M. Chapoutier ‘Les Vignes de Bila-Haut’ Côtes du Roussillon-Village
AOC Côtes du Roussillon-Villages, France $15.95 (168716) 14.0% alcohol
Consistently great value, this southern Rhône blend of grenache, syrah and carignan opens with fresh red fruit and strawberry jam aromas with hints of vanilla, spice and an earthy note adding interest. Dry, medium bodied and well-structured with silky tannins and balancing acidity, spiced cherry and plum flavours generously coat the palate. The warming, lengthy finish delivers a wine well suited for braised beef short ribs. (Lisa Isabelle)

90
Remo Farina Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2014
DOCG Amarone Della Valpolicella $39.95 (995910) 15.0% alcohol
A red blend of indigenous grapes—50% corvina/20% corvinone/20% rondinella/10% molinara, Oseleta, Turchetta—this fills the room with delectable flavours of ripe bramble berry, raisin tart and cola notes. It blankets the palate medium-plus bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel and a boatload of warm comforting flavour—fig, dark cherry and black currant intertwined with excellent tang, grilled smoky herbs, mixed spice and mocha. It finishes lengthy and luxurious. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine from Rocca delle Macie is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores.

91 ✓ Value
Wits End ‘Luna’ Shiraz
McLaren Vale, South Australia $17.95 (311258) 14.0% alcohol
This is developing a following as each vintage cements its reputation as delivering value and great taste. Savory herbs and dark ripe fruit aromas—plum, bramble berry and cherry—herald smooth and mellow mouthfuls of juicy tang and oodles of flavour with pie cherry and ripe black currant melding with an underpinning of soft, ripe tannin. This is mid-full weight and nicely textured with good balance and charm. It’s good to go now served with well-seasoned, grilled medium-rare striploin. (Vic Harradine)

89
Torres Gran Coronas ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon
DO Penedès, Spain $19.95 (36483) 14.0% alcohol
Produced from fruit harvested on the family’s home estate, Mas la Plana, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo offers lifted, complex aromas of leather, underbrush, ripe red and black fruits and spiced vanilla. Dry and full bodied, the flavourful ripe fruit bathes the palate caressed by delicious notes of vanilla and sweet exotic spice. Firm in structure yet generous, tasty and savoury, it’s warm on the finish. This deftly balanced wine will pair with all manner of grilled meats. (Susan Desjardins)

• The following five red wines receive a $3.00 discount on the price shown below on each bottle purchased February 28 to March 27, 2022.

• The following Concha y Toro is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select stores.

91 ✓ Value
Concha y Toro ‘Marques de Casa Concha’ Cabernet Sauvignon
DO Puento Alto $22.95 (337238) 14.5% alcohol
This is a glorious wine to sip, pair with food or stick in the cellar for enjoyable drinking over the next few years. Dark toast and spiced field berry on the nose, the palate-coating succulent flavours—cassis, ripe boysenberry and Bing cherry—are underpinned by a firm chalky tannin structure and excellent moderating acidity. It’s mid weight, generously textured and finishes lengthy and luxurious, chockfull of warm ripe fruit flavour. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value
Seven Falls Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Washington State $21.95 (360222) 14.5% alcohol
This matured 15 to 18 months in seasoned and new oak barrel, mostly American with the balance French. There are aromas of dark berry fruit, mixed spice and espresso roast galore. This is ready to drink and oozing flavour with palate-coating flavours of dried currant and black, juicy Bing cherry interwoven with mint leaf, spice and vanilla. It finishes as it started—deftly balanced, fruit-forward, good depth and plenty of charm from cork pop to last drop. (Vic Harradine)

89 🇨🇦
The Foreign Affair ‘The Conspiracy’
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (149237) 13.8% alcohol
This cabernet, Ripasso-inspired red—the wine was ‘passed over’ cab sauv and cab franc skins from dried wines—highlights aromas of raisin, fig and red cherry. It flows over the palate with tannin-infused waves of dark berry fruit and red cherry that are spice laden and framed with good moderating acidity. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a long finish laced with still-evolving tannin. Pop corks now-2025 after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will receive a $2.50 discount for each bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022

93
Tommasi Valpolicella Classico Superior ‘Ripasso’
DOC Valpolicella Classico Superior, Veneto $24.95 (910430) 14.0% alcohol
A quiet nose of sweet black berry fruit opens up a glorious experience for lucky tasters. The fruit-forward nature of this wine unleashes a salvo of flavours including rich and concentrated cherry and bramble berry infused with fruit cake spice and dark chocolate. The memorable finish has gobs of black sweet fruit and black pepper with a hint of cigar box. At this price, flip open the trunk and toss in a case. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will have a discount of $5.00 taken off the price shown below for each bottle purchased from February 29 to March 27, 2022.

92
Umberto Cesari ‘Liano’ Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
IGT Rubicone $27.95 (225086) 13.5% alcohol
Red cherry/berry aromas intertwine with savory herbs and baking spice preceding a dark chocolate-tinged river of mixed dark berry fruit and crunchy red cherry flavours mingling and melding on the palate, balanced with structure and depth. It’s full bodied with satiny texture and lengthy, mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour with beef and cheese manicotti. (Vic Harradine)

Other Wines and Spirits

• The following Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

• The following wine will receive a $3.00 discount for every bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

Earn Aeroplan bonus points

• The following red wine will earn 120 Aeroplan bonus points for each bottle purchased from February 27 to March 26, 2022 on in-store purchases only, and not when purchased online.

91
7 Deadly Zins ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel
Lodi, California $24.95 (59311) 15.0% alcohol
Plum compote and crushed blueberry come to mind when nosing this ‘old vines’ zin, followed by raspberry, vanilla and cedar aromas emerging as you get deeper in the glass. A juicy flow of ripe blackberry, purple plum and raspberry glides on the palate with gentle heat and peppery notes. Tannins are present yet smooth and the sweet/savoury note in the finish makes you go back for more. Definitely a crowd pleaser, this full-bodied versatile red is a safe buy and is delicious with lamb burgers or glazed beef short ribs. (Louise Boutin)

• The following red wine will earn 40 Aeroplan bonus points for each bottle purchased from February 27 to March 26, 2022 on in-store purchases only, and not when purchased online.

91 ✓ Value
Viña Perez Cruz ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon
DO Maipo Alto, Chile $14.95 (694208) 13.5% alcohol
The cool, elevated Maipo Alto region is the sweet spot for premiere Chilean Cab. There’s a 3% splash of Syrah and 1% ripple of Carmenère in this mid-weight, beautifully textured, crowd-pleasing gem. Aromas of rich black fruit, sweet vanilla and toasty notes herald a river of black cherry, juicy and ripe mulberry on the palate infusing the long finish. It sports good depth, complexity, oodles of charm and exceptional-value. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers and stay safe, Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 12/31/22 Dave Isaacs 12/31/22

February 26, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

Don’t miss taking a look at the many wines from Argentina in this newsletter and if you like what you see, you can easily go back to the most recent newsletter dated February 14, 2022 and you’ll find quite a few there that are still stocked in the LCBO, as well. Happy hunting!

95 points and over - Two wines rang the 95 points and over bell with both found at the beginning of the wine reviews below.
Over 45 – There are over 45 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers – There are 26 wines reviewed that have discounts up to $5 per bottle purchased. There are also two wines that give bonus Aeroplan points when purchased in-store, but not when purchased on-line.
Vic Picks – 2017 Vineland Estates ‘Cabernet’ Cabernet Franc-Cabernet Sauvignon earned 93 points @ $19.95 found under Ontario: Red Wines; There are two Sparkling wines from Marynissen, one white and one Rosé found under New in Vintages (available in LCBO Vintages Saturday, March 5, 2022); There are six wines from Konzelmann Estate Winery with five found under New in Ontario Wineries and the remaining one wine under New in the LCBO; There are two wines from Malivoire with one found under New in Ontario Wineries and the other in New in Vintages.

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over - Two wines rang the 95 points and over bell with both found at the beginning of the wine reviews below.
Over 45 – There are over 45 wines reviewed in the following winecurrent.com newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine – There are many exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers – There are 26 wines reviewed that have discounts up to $5 per bottle purchased. There are also two wines that give bonus Aeroplan points when purchased in-store, but not when purchased on-line.
Vic Picks – 2017 Vineland Estates ‘Cabernet’ Cabernet Franc-Cabernet Sauvignon earned 93 points @ $19.95 found under Ontario: Red Wines; There are two Sparkling wines from Marynissen, one white and one Rosé found under New in Vintages (available in LCBO Vintages Saturday, March 5, 2022); There are six wines from Konzelmann Estate Winery with five found under New in Ontario Wineries and the remaining one wine under New in the LCBO; There are two wines from Malivoire with one found under New in Ontario Wineries and the other in New in Vintages.

Vintages Release: March 5, 2022

Champagne

96
Drappier Brut Nature-Zero Dosage Pinot Noir Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne, France $65.95 (179275) 12.0% alcohol
It’s light-yellow with copper highlights and pours with a fine-bead mousse and alluring aromas of yeasty notes, lemon zest and white grapefruit. It blankets the palate with a tang-infused wash of Meyer lemon and Mirabelle plum that persist through finish and aftertaste with added notes of spice and minerality. This is quite consistent throughout with persistent purity of tang, acidity and fresh, fruit flavour being well balanced. In the grand scheme of Champagne, this offers up a price-quality balance tipped well in your favour. Pour with sashimi, pan-seared scallops or lemon sole. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Red Wine

• The following gorgeous 2017 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Cabernet’ was sourced from 53.7% cabernet franc and 46.3% cabernet sauvignon from vines in the prime VQA sub-appellation of Twenty Mile Bench with the wine maturing for 18 months in oak barrique barrels.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates ‘Cabernet’ Cabernet Franc-Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 [25237) 13.0% alcohol
Rich and luscious on the nose, look for fruit-forward aromas of black cherry and dark bramble berry decorated with mocha and hints of pencil shavings. It’s über-flavourful on the palate with a surge of black currant, espresso roast, crème de cassis and hints of crunchy pie cherry persisting through the lengthy finish and aftertaste adorned with medium-full bodied texture and good tang and acidity throughout. Pick up a few as the price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pour with grilled red meat you pull off your barbecue. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

• The following 2018 Alamos ‘Selección’ Malbec was sourced from 100% hand-harvested malbec from high altitude vineyards of 915 to 1525 meters that was destemmed and crushed prior to a two- to three-day cold soak followed by fermentation lasting 10 – 15 days in upright and conical tanks at a controlled maximum temperature of 26-29 °C and maceration of 18-20 days to achieve complete flavour and colour extraction. Induced malolactic fermentation was completed followed by 9 to 12 months maturation in medium to medium+ toasted French oak before the final blend was assembled.

91 ✓ Value
Alamos ‘Selección’ Malbec 2018
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina $16.95 (322800) 13.5% alcohol
Opaque in the glass, this purple/black wine has crimson edges. Aromas leap from the glass with violets, black berry fruit and hints of dark plum and blueberry. It envelops the palate with a flavour-infused wash of black currant, black cherry and mulberry robed in peppery spice and underpinned by soft tannin. It’s medium-full bodied with good texture and plenty of balancing tang and acidity on the palate and throughout the tasting experience. It finishes lengthy with palate replays persisting through the aftertaste. Pour with grilled rack of lamb or grilled medium-rare beef striploin. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Catena ‘Paraje Altimira - High Altitude Vines’ Malbec was sourced from 100% malbec in vineyards at 1095m asl with alluvial origins—loamy soil underpinned by rounded rocks and made up by 80% sand/10% clay/10% silt. The wine was cold macerated at temperatures under 10 °C for five days then fermented for 16 days with post-fermentation maceration at 10 days followed by 12 months in French oak barrel, 35% new and the balance used previously. The Catena family boast 100 years plus of family vintners in the high-altitude mountain vineyards of Argentina.

96 ✓ Value
Catena ‘Paraje Altimira - High Altitude Vines’ Malbec 2018
Paraje Altimira, Valle de Uco, Mendoza $22.95 (492413) 13.5% alcohol
Brash, brawny and bountiful on the nose; look for black currant, black Bing cherry and © Ribena adorned with grilled savoury herbs and mixed spice aromas to the fore. It envelops the palate with a medium-full bodied, generously textured and nicely balanced surge of delicious flavours including bramble berry, pie cherry, spice-infused juicy black cherry and black licorice that persist through the finish and aftertaste. There’s a soft base of ripe tannin and excellent balance throughout. It’s elegant and classy with each sip as good or better than the last. Pour with medium-rare skirt steak or lightly smoked and grilled-to-your-liking rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Pasarisa Malbec wine is 100% malbec fruit sourced from vineyards high in the Andes, where the Catena family have long sought and found special sites to plant vines over the past +100 years in order to showcase the viticultural diversity of Argentina and its many regions.

89
Pasarisa Malbec 2019
Mendoza $16.95 (21986) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of black cherry/berry fruit intertwine with blueberry and mixed spice. It envelops the palate with a medium-bodied, textured stream of tang and tannin-infused black currant, pie cherry and mulberry fruit that persists to and through the dry, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. A two-hour aeration/decant will ameliorate the tannin. Pour with © Hy’s Seasoned Salt on grilled steak, roast beef or cassoulet. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages (available in LCBO Vintages Saturday, March 5, 2022)

• John Marynissen was an amateur winemaker and early adopter of vitis vinifera vines and pulled hybrids and replaced them with vitis vinifera vines in the 1970’s and the winery now owns approximately 25 acres of what are now generally accepted as the oldest commercial cabernet sauvignon vines in Canada. His daughter, Sandra, eventually took over the winemaking for some time. She later hired Jeff Hundertmark to replace her so she could spend more time with her family. Jeff has now moved on and is presently Director of Winemaking at Mt. Boucherie Winery in the Okanagan Valley after a very successful career in Niagara. At last look, Marynissen Estates Winery was then sold to a foursome of investors.

90 🇨🇦
Marynissen ‘Heritage Collection - Charmed Rosé’ Sparkling Wine, Method Charmat 2020
VQA Ontario $24.95 (25234) 11.5% alcohol
Aromas of freshly picked wild strawberries and juicy red cherries abound on the nose. It pours with a generous mousse—aka thousands of bubbles—first making a froth on the wine when poured then continuing to make seemingly endless streams of winding bubbles making their way to the top of this sparkling rosé. It captures the palate with medium-bodied and nicely textured off-dry flavours of cotton candy and notions of sweet maraschino cherry while balanced with tangy blood orange. Pour on its own to welcome guests, or with spicy Asian dishes or for you and your mate or close friend for a late afternoon or early evening Happy Hour. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Marynissen ‘Heritage Collection - Charmed’ Sparkling Wine, Method Charmat is an inspired blend of riesling, gewürztraminer and muscat that dazzles the palate, with a lengthy finish and lingering aftertaste.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Marynissen ‘Heritage Collection - Charmed’ Sparkling Wine, Method Charmat 2020
VQA Ontario $19.95 (25233) 11.5% alcohol
Floral notes, mineral and piquant peppery spice aromas dominate the nose on this tang- and pizzazz-infused white blend. Palate flavours of Key lime pie and lemon curd robed in pineapple and mouth-watering tang persist to and through the finish and aftertaste. This showcases crisp and refreshing flavours, a monumentally long finish and aftertaste and versatility at the table. Pour on its own or alongside freshly shucked Malpec oysters, steamed mussels, sushi or pour on its own. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour—pick up a case. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Konzelmann Estate Winery was one of the early adopters for vitis vinifera vines. You may purchase the five following wines from this website link - Konzelmann Estate Winery – and they will deliver to your home, licensed restaurant or office. You can also phone them during business hours – (905) 935-2866.

• The following 2020 Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Baco Noir was sourced from various mature vines throughout the Niagara Peninsula that were tended to just as Konzelmann Estate Winery would do. The result is wine that punches well above the price and provides an exceptional-value wine.

91 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Lakeside Series’ Baco Noir 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 11.5% alcohol
Earthy and gamy notes abound on the nose followed by rich and ripe cherry/berry note aromas preceding a luscious surge of palate flavours with black plum, tang-infused red cherry and ripe juicy bramble berry to the fore. This is a delightful red wine with plenty of pizzazz and well balanced with delicious tang-infused rich, luscious palate flavours and replays of palate flavours on the finish and aftertaste. The result is a wine that punches well above the price and provides an exceptional-value wine that’s versatile at the table and should please all red wine enthusiasts. Pour with vegetarian lasagna, roast chicken, pizza with your favourite toppings or beef fajitas. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Reserve Series’ Merlot Barrel Aged wine was aged judiciously for 6 months in French oak barrels and fully reflects the dazzling 2020 vintage.

92 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Reserve Series’ Merlot Barrel Aged 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of charred wood, incense, tobacco and dark and juicy cherry and berry fruit appear on the nose. A surge of palate flavours—pie cherry and pomegranate are juxtaposed with ripe juicy dark plum, fig and black currant that run to and through the lengthy dry finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Pour alongside beef tenderloin, crown roast of pork or a festive bird with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Reserve Series’ Sauvignon Blanc 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 12.5% alcohol
This leaps from the glass with aromas of grilled savoury herbs, grassy bits and hints of minerality that make way for citrus and notions of green apple on the nose. It then races across the palate with excellent tang and pizzazz expressed as lemon zest, white grapefruit and savoury herbs. This is a perfect crisp and clean sipper and also does well when poured with pan-seared fish or scallops or with lobster dipped in clarified butter under a light squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Reserve Series – Old Vines’ Riesling was sourced from various locations from vines with maturity. It was then matured in both stainless steel tanks and Acacia barrels.

93 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Reserve Series – Old Vines’ Riesling 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of grassy notes, minerality, citrus and rosewood abound on this gem of a dry riesling. It envelops the palate with tart tang and plenty of pizzazz expressed as lemon zest, Key lime and crisp Granny Smith apple. It’s medium bodied with good texture and creamy mouthfeel. The finish and aftertaste replay some palate flavours and add a dollop of purity of persistent fruit flavours, a hint of saline minerality and a mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. Drink now and over the next seven or eight years alongside briny, freshly shucked oysters, your favourite sushi or steamed mussels. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 100% riesling Sparkling wine was made Méthode Charmat with the 2nd fermentation taking place in stainless steel vat.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery Riesling Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $19.95 11.5% alcohol
Aromas of peppery spice and citrus notes precede a profusion of mousse—hundreds of bubbles in the glass when poured—then lovely palate flavours of slightly off-dry flavours of lemon curd then a lip-smacking surge of crisp, clean and refreshing Key lime and passionfruit that persist through the tang-infused finish and aftertaste. In a word, this is delicious and mouth-watering throughout from twist top to last drop and the exceptional-value price-quality balance tips well in your favour; pick up a few and pour on its own as an aperitif or welcoming wine to guests or with lighter-styled seafood appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Malivoire Wine Pinot Gris reflects the dazzling 2020 vintage of all VQA wine regions in Ontario and it also reflects the history of pinot gris being a wandering mutant clone of ancient Burgundy Pinot Noir by its slight pink-ish hue in the glass. It was hand-harvested mid-September from mature vines of the Malivoire Estate Vineyard with the amount of sugar in the unfermented grape reaching 20 ° Brix. 87% of grapes were crushed, destemmed and sent immediately to press, While 13% was crushed and skin-soaked for 30 hours before pressing. Cool primary fermentation occurred in stainless steel and after five months of clarification it was bottled in December, 2020.

93 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Pinot Gris 2020
VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of floral notes, piquant spice and notions of apple, pear and honeydew melon abound on the nose of this aromatic and flavourful gem. It races over the palate with great tang and pizzazz showcasing flavours of ripe pear, Key lime and ripe Casaba melon. It’s medium bodied with deft balance throughout and a delightfully lengthy lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. It’s clean, crisp and refreshing from first twist top to last delicious drop. Sip on its own or pour with pan-seared rainbow trout, mussels steamed in white wine and garlic or your favourite platter of sushi. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages (always available in select LCBO stores as a Vintages Essentials wine)

• The following 2020 Malivoire Wine ‘Farmstead’ Gamay was sourced from Four Mile Creek, Beamsville Bench and Twenty Mile Bench with the average Brix at 22. 94% of grapes were destemmed and crushed with 6% of grapes being left in whole clusters. For alcoholic and malolactic fermentation 87% went to stainless steel while 13% was completed in concrete tank. The new wine was then divided by 2/3rds aged in stainless steel and the remainder sent to well-used older oak barrels. It was blended and bottled six months later in May 2021.

94 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine ‘Farmstead’ Gamay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (591313) 12.5% alcohol
Pipe tobacco and peppery piquant spice aromas show first on the nose soon joined by aromas of blueberry, black currant and dark plum, adorned by grilled savoury herbs. The palate’s treated to a medium-plus bodied, textured stream of creamy-smooth ambrosia showcasing deft balance, ripe fruit flavours of red currant, pie cherry and passionfruit juxtaposed with cherry clafoutie and ripe mulberry underpinned by soft, fine-grained tannin and plenty of tang and pizzazz. This is ready to drink now and on to 2024. Pour with grilled lamb loin chops or rye bread sandwiches of Montreal smoked meat. (Vic Harradine)

94 ✓ Value
Bodegas Salentein ‘Reserva’ Malbec 2019
Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina $17.95 (640854) 14.0% alcohol
Dark purple-black, it’s virtually opaque in the glass. An alluring nose of exotic incense, spicy herbs and rich, sweet floral notes abound. It captures the palate with a bountiful surge of dazzling flavours with sweet black currant, ripe black plum and black Bing cherry to the fore then balanced with excellent tang and much pizzazz. It struts its stuff through the lengthy lip-smacking finish and aftertaste with elegance and charm. It’s deftly balanced with alluring aromas, fine-grained tannin, excellent acidity, fabulous fruit flavours and a monumentally lengthy finish and aftertaste. What’s not to like? Pour alongside your favourite cut of grilled meat or vegan dish and your favourite veggies. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO (available now)

• The following red wine is one of the most popular red wines in the Konzelmann wine portfolio. You’ll quickly find out why once you smell the exotic aromas and taste a perfectly balanced wine on the palate at an exceptional-value price. Pick up an armful and drink now and over the next four or five years.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Konzelmann Estate Winery ‘Lakefront Series’ Merlot 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (439281) 12.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of exotic incense intertwines with luscious black currant, black raspberry and juicy, black Bing cherry with wisps of earthy undertones. A generous stream of rich luscious flavours envelop the palate and persist to and through the mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste with purity of fruit, balance and a delightful underpinning of ripe tannin. This is ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. Give it a go with a charcouterie platter, burgers, pizza, steak, lasagna or crispy chicken wings. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages Classics Catalogue for April, 2022

• On-line ordering for the following wine begins April 7, 2022 @ 8:30 am.

• The following 2017 Sons of Eden ‘Remus – Old Vine’ Shiraz requires Eden Valley fruit sourced from sustainably farmed shiraz vines over 50-years-old. The following wine was sourced from three plots—two plots over 60-years-old and one plot over 80-years-old; the average yield was approximately two tonnes per acre. Hand-picked shiraz for the following wine was destemmed and crushed into 1.5 tonne open-top fermenters with select fermenters receiving up to 25% whole-bunch clusters added. It was hand-plunged daily then matured 18 months, not racked, in 300L French oak hogsheads, 45% new. You can read more about this special winery and their marvelous owners and crew at the following link: http://www.winecurrent.com/index.php/special-features/1562-sons-of-eden-winery

98
Sons of Eden ‘Remus – Old Vine’ Shiraz 2017
Eden Valley, South Australia $54.00 (20182) 14.5% alcohol
Inky/dark, almost opaque in the glass, aromas of violets, savoury herbs, black licorice and dark cherry waft easily from the glass after a gentle swirl. A broad swath of stunningly delicious flavours blanket the palate with juicy black plum and ripe black Bing cherry adorned with fennel, cracked pepper and hints of blueberry persisting through the monumentally long finish and aftertaste. This showcases firm structure, ripe tannin underpinning, excellent balance and lip-smacking tang. This has life ahead, pop corks now—after a three-hour aeration/decant—to 2027. This is superb shiraz deserving kudos and serious consideration for a multiple purchase. (Vic Harradine)

LCBO Limited Time Offers

• The following four white wines will receive a $2.00 discount for each bottle purchased from the price shown below from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

White Wines

• The following two white wines receive a discount of $3.00 per bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

• The following Sonoma Cutrer ‘Russian River Ranches’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine—always available in select LCBO stores.
91
Sonoma Cutrer ‘Russian River Ranches’ Chardonnay
Sonoma Coast, California $27.95 (608653) 14.2% alcohol
Baking spice, oak, pear and apple aromas abound. A medium-full bodied, generously textured surge of tangy lemon curd and Key lime interweave with baked apple and spice along with hints of grapefruit pith on finish and aftertaste. This has come around nicely since last tasted. Pour with roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates ‘Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard’ Riesling
VQA Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (38117) 9.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of lemony citrus, buckwheat honey and notions of petrol precede a dazzling off-dry surge of lemon-lime cordial, a bowl of tropical fruit—pineapple, mango, rambutan—along with oodles of tangy pizzazz persisting from the first drop through the palate to the delicious, balanced and beautiful finish and aftertaste. This is quite special. Pour on its own or with spicy Asian dishes—General Tso’s chicken, moo shu pork or tikka masala. Pick up an armful. Drink now to 2028. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wines

• The following twelve red wines receive a $2.00 discount for each bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

• The following 2017 Gérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah/Grenache is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select stores.

• The following wine from Rocca delle Macie is a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail stores.

• The following five red wines receive a $3.00 discount on the price shown below on each bottle purchased February 28 to March 27, 2022.

• The following Concha y Toro is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in select stores.

full-of-flavour finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

• The following wine will receive a $2.50 discount for each bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022

• The following wine will have a discount of $5.00 taken off the price shown below for each bottle purchased from February 29 to March 27, 2022.

Other Wines and Spirits

• The following Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

• The following wine will receive a $3.00 discount for every bottle purchased from February 28 to March 27, 2022.

Earn Aeroplan bonus points

• The following red wine will earn 120 Aeroplan bonus points for each bottle purchased from February 27 to March 26, 2202 on in-store purchases only, and not when purchased online.

• The following 7 Deadly Zins ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel is a Vintage Essentials wine always available in many LCBO retail stores. The weather patterns in this unique part of Lodi are quite good. This was matured for just under one year in American oak.
91
7 Deadly Zins ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel
Lodi, California $24.95 (59311) 15.0% alcohol
Plum compote and crushed blueberry come to mind when nosing this ‘old vines’ zin, followed by raspberry, vanilla and cedar aromas emerging as you get deeper in the glass. A juicy flow of ripe blackberry, purple plum and raspberry glides on the palate with gentle heat and peppery notes. Tannins are present yet smooth and the sweet/savoury note in the finish makes you go back for more. Definitely a crowd pleaser, this full-bodied versatile red is a safe buy and is delicious with lamb burgers or glazed beef short ribs. (Louise Boutin)

• The following red wine will earn 40 points for each bottle purchased from February 27 to March 26, 2202 on in-store purchases only, and not when purchased online.

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: TBD 2022

91 ✓ Value
J. de Villebois Sauvignon Blanc 2021
AOP Val de Loire, France $17.95 (15774) 12.5% alcohol
This beautiful French sauvignon blanc matures on its lees for six months in stainless steel tank. It’s fresh on the nose with lots of gooseberry, honeydew melon and tropical fruit aromas, a touch of fresh herb and mineral flair. Yummy high acidity, think starfruit and lime, accentuate flavours of green apple, pineapple, and dill before closing on nice white pepper and lime zest notes. This medium-bodied dry white is lovely with crispy flatbread and artichoke dip or prosciutto-wrapped asparagus on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Domaine Courtois ‘La Grange – Vinsobres’ 2018
AOC Vinsobres, France $16.95 (526632) 14.5% alcohol
This blend of 55% grenache/45% syrah is hand-harvested and has barely no oak influence--only one-third of the blend is matured in second use barrel for four months. The nose is fresh with bright raspberry and blackberry aromas, a nice licorice backdrop and some leather notes. A little warm at first, it fills the mouth with delicious flavours of stewed strawberry, tangy cherry, black plum and a peppery note emerging in the fruit forward, dry, slightly grippy and comforting finish. Aerate/decant this medium-full bodied red one hour and pour alongside thin-crust pizza with black olives or hearty ratatouille. (Louise Boutin)

89
Azienda Agricola Provolo ‘Tenuta Ca’Nove – Superiore Valpolicella Ripasso’ 2017
DOC Valpolicella Ripasso, Veneto, Italy $15.80 (19650) 14.0% alcohol
This traditional Veneto blend spent 18 months in barrels and six months in bottles before release. It shows profound aromas of dry cherry, plum, date, bark, balsamic notes and hints of clove. It flows on the palate with softness, high acidity and polished tannins, featuring flavours of dried fruit but also tart cherry, black plum, cocoa powder, a slight medicinal note and earthy flair persisting in the dry and slightly warm finish. Aerate/decant one to two hours before dinner and pair with mushroom risotto or braised veal shanks. (Louise Boutin)

89
Domaine Du Bicheron ‘Mâcon-Péronne - Chardonnay 2020
AOP Mâcon-Péronne, Burgundy, France $19.95 (14960) 14.5% alcohol
Lots of yellow fruit aromas with yeasty notes and nutmeg in this young chardonnay, matured in stainless steel tanks for 12 months, looking more evolved than its age. It offers pear and apple compote flavour combined with lemon yogurt notes and a trail of exotic spice persisting in the finish. This medium-bodied white, with medium acidity, would pair well with baked ham and roasted root vegetables. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Azienda Agricola Provolo ‘Soave’ 2021
DOC Soave, Veneto, Italy $9.80 (13735) 12.5% alcohol
What to expect from a bottle under $10? Well, not what I found in this one; ripe peach, pineapple, tangerine and floral aromas all happy to be together. This medium-light bodied blend of garganega (the soave grape) and 20% chardonnay shows delicious flavours of tropical fruit, nectarine, bright grapefruit acidity and a delicious mild almond bitterness typical of the varietal, bringing balance and authenticity to this bargain delicious white. Pair with breaded zucchini sticks, fish & chips or just sip on its own. (Louise Boutin)

91 ✓ Value

Caves de Rauzan ‘Château Villotte’ 2019

AOC Bordeaux Supérieur, France $17.95 12.5% alcohol

You’ll be greeted with beautiful aromas of dry cherry, ripe plum, cedar and licorice in this blend of mostly merlot with a dash of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc matured 12 months in oak barrels. Don’t be fooled by the lower alcohol level, this wine is medium-bodied with plenty of character, starting with ripe fruit flavours—cherry, strawberry, blackberry—bright acidity, a touch of earthiness and ripe, yet slightly grippy tannins on the gum, adding structure to this gem. The finish is long and dry with black fruit and earthy replays. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside juicy red meat on the grill or mild italian sausage-stuffed portobello mushrooms. (Louise Boutin)

92 ✓ Value

Domaine Fond Croze ‘Confidence’ 2020

AOP Côtes du Rhône. France $15.95 (20951) 14.5% alcohol

A profound nose of dark fruit aromas including blueberry and plum along with a pretty note of lavender introduces a silky textured flow of mixed berry compote flavours and kirsch liqueur, balanced with a briny black olive note leading to a savoury, slightly warm persistent finish. This organic medium-full-bodied blend of grenache and syrah is matured in concrete tank for 12 to 24 months. There is a ton of value in this reasonably priced bottle and it will pair beautifully with eggplant parmigiana or braised lamb shanks. Aerate/decant two hours to soften tannins. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value

Caves de Rauzan ‘Fleur’ 2021

AOC Entre-deux-Mers, France $14.95 (20900) 11.5% alcohol

This half and half vegan blend of sauvignon blanc and sémillon presents with fresh aromas of green apple, green bean, lime and a distant flinty note. Medium-light bodied, it travels the palate with delicious flavours of pineapple, lime, fresh thyme and a white pepper note emerging towards the end, providing additional dimension to the crisp and zesty finish. Pair with spanakopita or fish tacos under a squeeze of lime juice. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value

Caves de Rauzan Château Le Vinata 2019

AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 13.0% alcohol

This delicious 100% merlot exudes aromas of ripe black fruit, kirsch liqueur, plum compote and graphite. The palate turns towards red fruit flavours including raspberry and cherry with a layer of ripe blackberry. Lots of tang along with medium soft tannins, the perfect combination for an easy drinking medium-bodied red offering a dry fruit-forward delicious finish. Enjoy alongside meatloaf with ketchup glaze or vegetarian tourtière. (Louise Boutin)

91 ✓ Value

Le Noble ‘Cuvée Réserve’ 2021

AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 (18782) 13.0% alcohol

This young blend of 80% merlot/20% cabernet sauvignon opens the door with charming aromas of dark cherry, purple plum, milk chocolate, sandalwood and vanilla. It glides on the palate with flavours of ripe cassis, blackberry a repeat of chocolate character and a dry finish suggesting bright raspberry and delicious vanilla notes. This medium-bodied red with medium dusty tannins is a bottle that offers way more than other reds in a similar price bracket. Enjoy with duck confit with braised red cabbage. (Louise Boutin)

Cheers and stay safe, Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 12/31/22 Dave Isaacs 12/31/22

February 14, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

Don’t miss taking a look at the many wines from Argentina in the newsletter
95 points and over – Three wines rang the 95 points and over bell—Armand de Brignac ‘Ace of Spades - Gold’ Brut Non-Vintage 2018 earned 95 points @ $739.95 (1500 mL - magnum) found under Champagne; Bodegas Caro ‘Amancaya’ Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon earned 95 points @ $23.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine and 2018 El Enemigo Chardonnay earned 95 points @ $24.95 found under New in Vintages (and available NOW)
Exceptional-value wine – There are exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Lisa likes - Marie-Pierre Manciat Brut Crémant de Bourgogne Non-Vintage earned 92 points @ $26.95 found under Sparkling Wine.
Vic Picks – 2018 Bodegas Caro ‘Amancaya’ Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon earned 95 points @ $23.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine; Henry of Pelham Riesling Icewine earned 95 points @ $49.95 375 mL found under New in Vintages (and available NOW); 2018 El Enemigo Chardonnay earned 95 points @ $24.95 found under New in Vintages (and available NOW).

Newsletter Highlights:

Don’t miss taking a look at the many wines from Argentina in the newsletter
95 points and over – Three wines rang the 95 points and over bell—Armand de Brignac ‘Ace of Spades - Gold’ Brut Non-Vintage 2018 earned 95 points @ $739.95 (1500 mL - magnum) found under Champagne; Bodegas Caro ‘Amancaya’ Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon earned 95 points @ $23.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine and 2018 El Enemigo Chardonnay earned 95 points @ $24.95 found under New in Vintages (and available NOW)
Exceptional-value wine – There are exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Lisa likes - Marie-Pierre Manciat Brut Crémant de Bourgogne Non-Vintage earned 92 points @ $26.95 found under Sparkling Wine.
Vic Picks – 2018 Bodegas Caro ‘Amancaya’ Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon earned 95 points @ $23.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine; Henry of Pelham Riesling Icewine earned 95 points @ $49.95 375 mL found under New in Vintages (and available NOW); 2018 El Enemigo Chardonnay earned 95 points @ $24.95 found under New in Vintages (and available NOW).

Vintages Release: February 19, 2022

Champagne

• The following Non-Vintage Armand de Brignac ‘Ace of Spades - Gold’ Brut is crafted at Cattier, a Champagne house since the mid-1700s. Its recent incredible surge in sales/popularity is due to a long-time fan, now majority owner, American rapper, Shawn ‘Jay-Z’ Carter. It’s a blend of 40% pinot noir/40% chardonnay/20% pinot meuniere from premium vineyards and an assemblage of the 2009, 2010, 2012 vintages. This magnum is packaged in an opaque, gold-coloured bottle.

95
Armand de Brignac ‘Ace of Spades - Gold’ Brut Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne, France $739.95 (438820) 1500 mL 12.5% alcohol
Floral and biscuit aromas on the nose precede endless streams of miniscule bubbles in the glass. This is elegant and refined, but doesn’t lack in texture—it’s creamy/dreamy smooth—flavour or complexity. A firm flow of lemon-lime tang, ripe apple and notions of grilled pineapple persist on the palate and lengthy finish. It’s crisp and refreshing, delicious and elegant. (tasting note above from tasting wine from a 750 mL bottle) (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

92 ✓ Value
Pierre Sparr Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé Non-Vintage
AOC Crémant d’Alsace, France $19.95 (39016) 12.5% alcohol
This 100% Pinot Noir is produced Méthode Traditionnelle punching well above its price and worthy of a multiple purchase. It pours fine mousse in the glass with the liquid a stunning copper-pink hue. Aromas of strawberry, spice and floral notes provide segue to a glorious gusher of palate flavours with ruby red grapefruit, blood orange and just-picked wild strawberries to the fore. It’s elegant and charming, medium bodied and just off-dry, balanced and beautiful with a lengthy, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

92
Marie-Pierre Manciat Brut Crémant de Bourgogne Non-Vintage
AOC Crémant de Bourgogne $26.95 (402362) 12.5% alcohol
This traditional-method sparkling wine from southern Burgundy entices the nose with caramel apple, lemon zest and toasty biscuit notes from time spent on its lees in the bottle. It has a generous palate of zesty citrus, ripe apple and brioche leading to a long, full and frothy finish. A good value Crémant, it’s well balanced with lively acidity and a delicate effervescence. (Lisa Isabelle)

Argentina: White Wine

• The following 2020 Susana Balbo Wines ‘Crios’ Chardonnay is a tribute to her two children, Ana and José (‘Crios is Spanish for ‘kids’) who now work beside their mother in furthering their environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility as well as forging a legacy. The 100% chardonnay grapes were hand-harvested from high Andean vineyards with an average of 1050 M asl as well as being of premium-quality fruit. The fruit was destemmed and gently crushed then fermented at a controlled 12 °C for 20 days with selected yeast and then in contact with its lees for three months in second and third use barrels of French and American oak.

91 ✓ Value
Susana Balbo Wines ‘Crios’ Chardonnay 2020
Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina $15.95 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of delicate flowers and Meyer lemon mingle with notes of minerality on the nose of this delightful chardonnay. It captures the palate with flavours of pineapple, Granny Smith apple and plenty of tang and pizazz. It’s textured with creamy smooth mouthfeel and finishes in a flourish—crisp, clean and refreshing. Pour with fish, shellfish or sushi. The price-quality ratio is skewed well in your favour; pick up a few. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

• The following 2018 Bodegas Caro ‘Amancaya’ Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon was produced by a partnership of the Rothschild and Catena families that was forged in 1999. They are both icons in their own country with the Catena family producing fabulous malbec and the Rothschild family doing the same with cabernet sauvignon predominant. This red blend from Argentina is 70% malbec and 30% cabernet sauvignon that saw half of the wine spend 12 months in oak barrels, 1/3rd new, while the other half spent its time in concrete tanks. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour, pick up an armful.

95 ✓ Value
Bodegas Caro ‘Amancaya’ Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Lujàn de Cuyo & Paraje Altimara, Mendoza, Argentina $23.95 (21999) 14.5% alcohol
Piquant spice and grilled savoury herbs intertwine with rich luscious aromas of vanilla, bramble berry and hints of cassis. It surges over the palate with satin smooth texture and mouthfeel from a deftly balanced wash of Bing cherry, black plum and black currant adorned with herbs and plenty of tangy acidity that persists with purity of fruit from cork pop to final drop. This is well balanced throughout and showcases a well-made wine with plenty to offer. Serve with flank steak or braised lamb shank. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Humberto Canale ‘Intimo’ Malbec springs from a winery founded in 1909 and is now owned and managed by 5th generation family owners and winemakers from one of the most southerly wineries in the world. They enjoy some of the cleanest air in the world and purest water, as well. The clean air aids luminosity while the pure water supply irrigates the vineyards. Why not take up the challenge from the winery to ‘taste a bit of Patagonia’ in this 100% malbec?

93
Humberto Canale ‘Intimo’ Malbec 2019
Rio Negro, Patagonia Argentina $14.95 (144725) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of pipe tobacco, exotic spice and dark cherry/berry fruit abound on the nose of this gem. It glides easily over the palate with bramble berry, blueberry, black Bing cherry and excellent tang and pizzazz. It’s medium-plus weight with creamy mouthfeel and is deftly balanced with soft, ripe tannin, lip-smacking tang and fruit-forward palate flavours all playing nicely together. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour, back up the van. Pours well on its own or with grilled beef or low and slow cooked pork back ribs. (Vic Harradine)

France: White Wine

• The following 2020 Gérard Bertrand ‘Réserve – Spéciale’ Viognier was sourced from low-yielding estate vines that were pressed on arrival at the winery then placed in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. Fermentation is under cool and controlled temperature while malo-lactic fermentation was halted.

89 ✓ Value
Gérard Bertrand ‘Réserve – Spéciale’ Viognier 2020
IGP Pays d’Oc, France 14.95 (147975) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of honey-drizzled Bartlett pear, fragrant, sweet melon and notions of ripe apricot dominate the nose. It blankets the palate with sharp minerality, tangy blood orange, peach marmalade and hints of lemon curd delivering more of the same on the finish and mouth-watering aftertaste. Refreshing on its own, it shines with lemon chicken, seafood and line-caught freshwater fish… pickerel anyone? (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

• ‘An 806’ is a reference to the year in which Château de Peyrepertuse was traced back. Its citadels are still dominating the vineyard where this GSM grape blend was sourced. The syrah portion goes through carbonic maceration and the blend is matured in French oak for eight months plus a few additional months of bottle ageing before release.

89
Gérard Bertrand ‘An 806’ Corbières 2018
AOP Corbières $17.95 (394288) 14.5% alcohol
This hand-harvested blend of grenache, syrah and mourvèdre shows-up with fresh aromas of blackberry compote, strawberry, pepper and dry bush. Medium-full-bodied on the palate, it carries flavours of black plum, mocha and tobacco notes enveloped in fine grippy tannin. The alcohol is well integrated and the finish and aftertaste are defined with nice tang and an herbaceous flair. Aerate/decant one hour and pour alongside juicy flank steak and grilled mixed bell peppers. (Louise Boutin)

New in Vintages (the following wines are in Vintages NOW)

• The following 2018 El Enemigo Chardonnay was sourced from 100% chardonnay vines planted in calcareous soil at 1470 M asl. It was vinified at 18 °C in French oak barrel, 35% new, using indigenous yeast then matured nine months in those 500 L barrels.

95 ✓ Value
El Enemigo Chardonnay 2018
Mendoza, Argentina $24.95 (482984) 13.5%
Floral and citrus aromas dominate the nose of this gem preceding a deftly balanced stream of palate flavours with green apple, Meyer lemon and ripe pear to the fore. There’s persistent purity of fruit, delightful medium-full bodied texture and creamy mouthfeel along with a lip-smacking line of mouth-watering tang and pizzazz to and through the clean, crisp and refreshing finish and aftertaste. Lovely sipped on its own, it also pours well alongside Sunday roast chicken, crown roast of pork or line-caught freshwater fish pan-seared in butter. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2017 El Enemigo ‘El Baranco Vineyard’ Bonarda was planted some time ago in sand and river stone soils at 650 M asl. It was fermented by wild yeast at a maximum temperature of 28 °C for 15 days then a further 25 days of maceration before aging in 100-year-old foudres for 12 months.

93
El Enemigo ‘El Baranco Vineyard’ Bonarda 2017
Mendoza, Argentina $21.95 (15132) 13.5%
Black currant and damson plum aromas mingle with dark cherry and grilled savory herbs on the nose. It’s a bit grippy on the palate from ripe, but still-evolving tannin while the palate flavours of pie cherry and red currant are juxtaposed to ripe black plum and notions of crème de cassis. It’s medium-plus weight with good mouthfeel and plenty of texture throughout and good balance of acidity, tannin and palate flavour. It finishes balanced and bountiful. Give this a go with a premium cut of beef tenderloin grilled medium-rare. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2017 El Enemigo ‘El Mirador Vineyard’ Bonarda was vinified aged, etc. and is almost a carbon copy of the ‘El Baranco Vineyard’ above.

93
El Enemigo ‘El Mirador Vineyard’ Bonarda 2017
Mendoza, Argentina $21.95 (15120) 13.5%
Aromas of mixed spice, dark cherry/berry fruit and notions of sprigs of herbs abound on the nose. It envelops the palate with a fruit-forward, smooth and balanced stream of palate flavours with piquant spice, bramble berry and passionfruit along with ripe, smooth tannin, delectable tang and acidity from cork pop to last drop. There’s persistent purity of fruit and a lingering finish and aftertaste. Pour alongside braised beef and root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Luigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from 100% cabernet sauvignon from vines with an average age of 40 years that was sourced exclusively from estate vineyards at 800 to 1000 m above sea level. The grapes were manually harvested with bunch selection and de-stemming. Alcoholic fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 28 °C using selected yeasts. It was then matured in French and American oak barrels for 14 months before being gently filtered and bottled.

92 ✓ Value
Luigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Maipú & Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina $18.95 (128629) 14.3% alcohol
Rich and luscious on the nose, this cabernet sauvignon freely gives up aromas of dark cherry fruit, bramble berry jam along with mixed spice and smoky notes. It envelops the palate with a tidal wave of delectable flavours with black plum and passionfruit mingling with piquant spice and grilled savoury herbs. It’s generously textured with good mouthfeel and an extended finish and aftertaste. The winery suggests a pairing with wild boar, if you find yourself out of wild boar, give rare-grilled venison a chance with a side of roasted root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Viña Real Crianza – Rioja was sourced from a blend of hand-harvested estate vineyards of tempranillo/garnacha/mazuelo. It was aged at least 12 months in French and American oak casks then rests for a number of months at the winery in bottle before being released. It’s accredited vegan friendly. The exceptional-value, price-quality balance both tip wildly in your favour. Pick up a few and open now until 2030.

92 ✓ Value
Viña Real Crianza - Rioja 2018
DOCa Rioja, Spain $16.95 (657411) 13.5% alcohol
Fresh and lively aromas of spice- and herb-infused red cherry berry fruit precedes a balanced and bountiful river of palate flavours with tang-laden pie cherry and red currant melding wonderfully with black currant. Drying tannins underpin the back palate, finish and aftertaste—they are easily ameliorated with a two-hour aeration/decant. It finishes with a flourish of tangy pizzazz. Pour with pasta in tomato sauce with meatballs or hamburgers grilled in a grill pan on and in the oven from now until spring when you can move to the outside grill. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Henry of Pelham Riesling Icewine is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

93 🇨🇦
Henry of Pelham Riesling Icewine 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $49.95 (430561) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
This is a perennial favourite showcasing excellent acidity and ripe, sweet, fruit flavours that are perfect partners in this delicious offering. Aromas of peach, pear and wisps of minerality unleash a flow of palate-enveloping flavours—baked apple and poached pear interlace with crisp green apple, sharp ginger and lemony tang in a crescendo of balanced and beautiful ambrosia. It all replays on the lengthy finish and aftertaste. Gorgeous now, will develop depth and complexity with bottle age. Pour on its own or with premium blue-veined cheese, fruit flan or pan-seared foie gras. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2016 CVNE ‘Imperial – Reserva’ is a hand-harvested red blend of 85% tempranillo and 15% graciano/mazuelo/garnacha with all vines bush trained and over 40 years old. Grapes were alcoholic fermented using indigenous yeasts then the wine was aged for two years in French and American with all new barrels. It then aged a further one year in bottle before being released.

94
C.V.N.E. ‘Imperial – Reserva’ 2016
DOCa Rioja, Spain $39.95 (424390) 14.0% alcohol
Highly perfumed and alluring on the nose, the aromas of floral notes, mulled spice and red berry fruit assert themselves easily. A tang- and herb-laden river of flavours with red and black cherry fruit and oodles of savoury herbs and notions of minerality make their way to the lingering finish and aftertaste. Pour with prawn and chorizo paella or your favourite tapas meat dish, perhaps grilled oxtail. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Veramonte ‘Primus – The Blend’ is certified sustainable and accredited Vegan on the back label of the bottle.

91 ✓ Value
Veramonte ‘Primus – The Blend’ 2019
D.O. Apalta, Colchagua, Chile $19.95 (712463) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of charred wood and exotic incense decorated with wild berry fruit abound on the nose of this red blend. It surges over the palate with a gusher of flavour with dark berry fruit, black juicy cherry and mouth-watering tang and acidity persisting to and through the finish and aftertaste underpinned by ripe tannin and decorated with grilled savoury herbs. It’s good to go now and pairs well with hearty beef stew or rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

LCBO ‘Limited Time Offers’ Now to February 27, 2022

• Regardless of the vintage you purchase from the LCBO, you’ll receive the discount shown below for each bottle of wine reviewed below that’s purchased (either ‘in person’ or online) from now to February 27th, 2022, unless otherwise notified in the newsletter below.

White Wines

• The following three white wines receive a $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below from now to February 27, 2022.

• The following Kim Crawford Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

89
Willm ‘Réserve’ Riesling
AOC Alsace, France $19.95 (11452) 12.5% alcohol
A perennial favourite for many years, this dishes up lifted aromas of peach, pear and apple interlaced with white flowers and lemon zest. The palate’s treated to mouthfuls of tang-infused flavours with Key lime, white grapefruit and hints of flinty minerality. This is medium bodied with persistent purity of tang and fruit. It finishes lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)

• The following white wine receives a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below now to February 27th, 2022.

Red Wines

• The following seven red wines receive a $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below now to February 27th, 2022.

92 ✓ Value
Columbia Crest ‘H3’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Horse Heaven Hills, Washington State $19.95 (210047) 14.0% alcohol
This is a lovely red with the price-quality balance tipped well in your favour. A subdued nose of mixed spice and dark cherry/berry fruit unleashes a delectable wash of balanced and beautiful flavours with red and black currant and juicy black Bing cherry to the fore. It’s medium bodied with generous texture and long, balanced finish showcasing delicious ripe fruit. Each sip is as good as or better than the previous. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✓ Value
Bodegas Julian Chivite ‘Gran Fuedo Reserva’
DO Navarra $18.95 (479014) 13% alcohol
Here’s a red blend—tempranillo, cabernet sauvignon, merlot—delivering a delicious mouthful of flavour-packed value. Black currant, spice, minty cherry and cassis on the nose and palate, it washes over the palate in waves with a good underpinning of dusty tannin. Mid weight with a generous mouth feel, the lingering well-balanced finish is fruit-forward and refreshing. Great with grilled t-bone, ribs or burgers. (Vic Harradine)

89 ✓ Value
Porcupine Ridge Syrah
WO Swartland, South Africa $16.95 (595280) 14.0% alcohol
Balanced and brimming with beautiful fruit, this has structure, a lingering aftertaste and oodles of charm—a $14.95 red (includes discount) tasting $20 and more. Red berry fruit, floral notes and mineral on the nose, this bursts on the palate with a balanced, persistent wash of briary berry and juicy black Bing cherry adorned by mixed spice. It’s medium-full weight with lovely mouth feel and a mouth-watering lively finish—each sip’s better than the previous. (Vic Harradine)

89
Small Gully ‘The Formula’ Robert’s Shiraz
South Australia $19.95 (142935) 15.9% alcohol
This is a crowd-pleasing, single-vineyard red with rich, ripe, robust flavours. Toasty oak, extra-ripe, dark berry fruit and notions of roasted herbs herald a creamy smooth, medium-plus-bodied wash of sweet, ripe dark cherry and mulberry garnished with black plum compote and kirsch liqueur. The finish layers on more of the same. Pour with grilled, smoked back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)

• The following four red wines receive a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below January 31st to February 27th, 2022.

90
Perrin & Fils ‘Les Sinards’
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France $39.95 (926626) 14.0% alcohol
From one of the world’s iconic wine-making families - Primum Familiae Vini, this dishes up warm aromas of dark cherry, black plum compote and espresso roast. It’s complex and interesting on the palate with red and black currant interwoven with hints of cassis and toasty notes. Medium-full bodied, nicely textured with a juicy, tangy lengthy aftertaste and supple tannin underpinning, you won’t be disappointed with this—ideal for drinking and gifting. (Vic Harradine)

89
Travaglini Gattinara
DOCG Gattinara $32.95 (713354) 13.5% alcohol
This 100% nebbiolo was sourced from vines ranging from 12 to 45 years of age. It’s medium-red with an expressive nose of tobacco, mint, spice, raspberry and cocoa powder. This is medium bodied with a refreshing balance of acid, flavours of juicy plum and smooth tannins that seem diminished at first but grow in intensity toward the finish. Drink now after a two-hour aeration/decant or cellar until 2023. It’ll pair well with braised duck. (Dave Isaacs)

Other Wines and Spirits

• The following two wines will have $2.00 discounted from the regular price shown below for each bottle purchased from now to February 27th, 2022.

89
Foss Marai Prosecco ‘Extra Dry’ Non-Vintage
DOC Prosecco $19.95 (729392) 11.5% alcohol
A tempting nose of floral and citrussy notes tingle the nose and provide a fitting entry to this very well-priced sparkler. Nothing complicated, but everything is in balance, from the frothy attack of tropical fruit flavours and lemon zest to the lovely tang of acidity on the finish. Serve well chilled to guests as a welcoming wine. (Vic Harradine)

• The following Kim Crawford Rosé is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

• The following wine will have $3.00 discounted from the regular price shown below for each bottle purchased from now to February 27th, 2022.

• The following wine will have $5.00 discounted from the regular price shown below for each bottle purchased from now to February 27th, 2022.

89 🇨🇦
Inniskillin Vidal Icewine
VQA Ontario $49.95 (388306) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
This vidal icewine from Niagara expresses itself without reservation starting with lifted aromas of apricot, lemon and earthy notes. It blankets the palate with a textured wash of apricot tart, lime-soaked guava and orange marmalade. Lemon zest and grilled pineapple provide semblance balance on the finish and aftertaste. Serve well chilled on its own or paired with fruit flan or blue cheese. (Vic Harradine)

• Earn 190 Aeroplan bonus points for the following wine from now to February 26th, 2022 when purchased in-store only.

Vintages Release: TBD, 2022

• The following wine is 100% Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso—a rare grape variety in that the stalks and stems on ripe grapes also turn red just before harvest. It is thought to have its origin in Italy and is now grown primarily in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeast Italy. This wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks and is primed for short term cellaring of one to four years after the vintage harvest of 2020. [91][drink][v]

91 ✓ Value
Società Agricola Valpanera ‘Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso’ 2020
DOC Friuli, Italy $16.95 (10080) alcohol 13.0%
Aromatic and complex on the nose—aromas of black cherry/berry fruit juxtaposed with passion fruit and red currant robed in savoury herbs and piquant mixed spice and oodles of bramble berry. It envelops the palate with a river of black currant and black Bing cherry medium weight with good texture and smooth, mellow mouthfeel. It finishes crisp, clean and delicious. Pour with crispy wings, beef tortillas or burgers. (Vic Harradine)

Stay safe, stay healthy, then tell and show someone you love that you love them.

Best wishes, Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 12/31/22 Dave Isaacs 12/31/22

January 30, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over – one wine rang the 95 points and over bell—Malivoire Wine ‘Small Lot’ Gamay 2020 earned 95 points @ $21.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries.
Exceptional-value wine – There are exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Louise loves - Lakeview Cellars Cabernet Franc Icewine earned 91 points @ $29.95 (200 mL) found under Ontario: Icewine.
Vic Picks – 2019 Chateau de Nages ‘ButiNages’ Rouge’ earned 91 points @ $16.95 found under New in Vintages; 2019 Luigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon earned 92 points @ $18.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine; Malivoire Wine ‘Small Lot’ Gamay 2020 earned 95 points @ $21.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries.

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over – one wine rang the 95 points and over bell—Malivoire Wine ‘Small Lot’ Gamay 2020 earned 95 points @ $21.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries.
Exceptional-value wine – There are exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Louise loves - Lakeview Cellars Cabernet Franc Icewine earned 91 points @ $29.95 (200 mL) found under Ontario: Icewine.
Vic Picks – 2019 Chateau de Nages ‘ButiNages’ Rouge’ earned 91 points @ $16.95 found under New in Vintages; 2019 Luigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon earned 92 points @ $18.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine; Malivoire Wine ‘Small Lot’ Gamay 2020 earned 95 points @ $21.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries.

Winecurrent was recently contacted by Kacaba Vineyards advising us that the following wine will be discounted $2.00 from the price below at the LCBO checkout for wines purchased from January 30 to February 26, 2022. This wine also placed ‘Double-gold’ at the 2021 All Canadian Wine Championship, and ‘Best of Category’, as well. This wine deserves a multiple purchase at this new $13.95 price. The following review was first published in winecurrent on July 5, 2021 and is archived on the www.winecurrent.com site.

• The following 2020 Kacaba Vineyards ‘Sustainable – Vegan Friendly’ Cabernet was sourced from 71% cabernet franc and 29% cabernet sauvignon. Kacaba is well known for its value and quality-packed wines. This wine is exceptionally delicious and is also exceptional-value. Don’t dally and pick up an armful before it all disappears from LCBO shelves.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Kacaba Vineyards ‘Sustainable – Vegan Friendly’ Cabernet 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula (499384) $15.95 13.0% alcohol
Sexy aromas of rose petals, exotic spice and rich, ripe dark cherry/berry fruit abound on the nose of this gem. It blankets the palate with a gorgeous surge of ripe blackberry fruit, raspberry and dark Rainier cherry robed in excellent balancing crunchy red fruit tang and acidity. It’s medium-bodied with deft balance, persistent purity of fruit, lengthy lip-smacking aftertaste and has great versatility at the table. Incredibly enjoyable on its own, it’s also wonderful with barbecued beef or lamb tagine or crown roast of pork. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: February 5, 2022

Ontario: Icewine

90 🇨🇦
Château des Charmes Vidal Icewine
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $28.95 200ml (565861) 9.5% alcohol
This is the perfect after-dinner treat on its own or with dessert and … it’s the ideal size for two or three people to enjoy. Aromas and flavours of mango-infused treacle, candied-peel marmalade and racy lemon curd interweave on the nose, palate and delectable finish and aftertaste—this is absolutely delicious. It’s also perfectly balanced and the perfect hostess gift. (Vic Harradine)

91 🇨🇦
Lakeview Cellars Cabernet Franc Icewine
VQA Niagara Peninsula $29.95 200ml (53397) 11.0% alcohol
This is not your typical, gold-shaded icewine. This one has a vibrant raspberry glow and a very singular nose—ripe field strawberry, freshly cracked black pepper and a hint of green bell pepper. It flows on the palate in a luscious nectar bursting with ripened sweet strawberry and maraschino cherry flavours lifted with balancing rhubarb tartness and piquant peppercorn notes trailing into the endlessly delicious finish. No need for dessert, sip on its own after dinner to fully appreciate the complexity of this beauty. (Louise Boutin)

Argentina: Red Wine

• The vines sourced in the following 2018 Terrazas ‘de los Andes – High Altitude Vineyard – Reserva’ Malbec have aged 20 to 80 years. Grapes underwent classic fermentation with selected yeast from estate vineyards at 25 ºC. Maceration was for 20 days. A portion of the wine was aged in French oak for 10 months. The price-quality ratio skews well in your favour; pick up an armful.

91 ✓ Value
Terrazas ‘de los Andes – High Altitude Vineyard – Reserva’ Malbec 2018
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (29280) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas abound on the nose of this alluring Malbec with black currant, black Bing cherry and ripe black raspberry to the fore. It blankets the palate with fresh, crunchy red fruit—pie cherry and pomegranate intertwined with dark fruit—black plum and spice-infused bramble berry. It’s loaded with tangy acidity and plenty of pizzazz along with replays of the palate flavours through the finish and aftertaste. Aerate/decant for a couple of hours before serving with prime cuts of medium-rare grilled beef. (Vic Harradine)

Chile: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Veramonte ‘Primus’ Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced in the foothills of the Andes in a low-yielding vintage due to lack of rain. It has also resulted in the fruit flavours being more prominent in the finished wine—you lose some and you win some. This wine is certified organic and certified vegan friendly.

New in Vintages (available now in many LCBO retail stores)

• The following 2020 Chateau de Nages ‘Butinages’ White blend’ was sourced from roussanne and grenache blanc fruit and is certified organic by Ecocert. The winery is owned and managed by the iconic Gassier family.

91 ✓ Value
Chateau de Nages ‘ButiNages’ White blend’ 2020
AOP Costières de Nîmes, France $16.95 (20906) 13.0% alcohol
A mélange of alluring aromas includes floral and citrus notes soon joined by cantaloupe and minerality. It envelops the palate with a surge of balanced flavours—lemon curd, ripe pineapple and yellow peach to the fore. This is medium weight with good mouthfeel and plenty of pizzazz throughout. Palate-flavours persist through the finish and aftertaste making for a delightful wine to sip on its own or pour with pan-seared salmon or steamed mussels in white wine. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Chateau de Nages ‘ButiNages’ Rouge’ tips well in your favour on the price-quality balance and is certified organic by Ecocert. Pick up a few before it’s all gone.

91 ✓ Value
Chateau de Nages ‘ButiNages’ Rouge’ 2019
AOP Costières de Nîmes, Rhone Valley, France $16.95 (20637) 13.5% alcohol
Piquant, peppery spice aromas are adorned with brambleberry, licorice, grilled savoury herbs and black plum on the nose of this syrah, grenache, mourvèdre blend. It dances on the palate with deft balance and plenty of nerve and verve expressed as a laser-like beam of tangy acidity that persists to and through the mouth-watering, lip-smacking good finish and aftertaste. It’s medium-plus bodied with persistent purity of flavour, tang and fruit. Pour with beef fajitas, chicken tikka masala or prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

• For daily home, office or restaurant delivery for the following two wines are sold at the winery only, order online from this link Malivoire Wine Company with FREE shipping on orders of $99 or more, or $20 credited next business day towards delivery outside Ontario and Québec. Phone 905-563-9253 Monday to Friday 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays and noon to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday for information and for locals to access curbside pickup instructions. Their retail shop is now open - 10 am - 5 pm on weekdays, and noon to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. There are guidelines due to COVID-19 that change often, best to phone or email first (the website has a space to type and is linked to their email).

• The following 2020 Malivoire Wine ‘Small Lot Gamay’ was hand-sorted at the winery with 55% then fermented in concrete and 45% in oak vats. In both cases one-third of the grapes were retained in whole clusters to be layered in with crushed berries. After alcoholic fermentation, malolactic conversion and blending, 30% went to stainless steel while 70% went to pre-loved, neutral oak barrels with both being bottled six months later in June 2021. Kudos to the entire Malivoire winemaking team for fashioning this fabulous gamay. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour; stock up on this one. Ordering five or more bottles of this will gain you FREE shipping. It’s an exceptional wine at an exceptional-value

95 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine ‘Small Lot’ Gamay 2020
VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 12.5% alcohol
Peppery piquant spice aromas mingle with cherry/berry fruit and hints of graphite and juicy black plum. It envelops the palate with a delectable surge of wild strawberry, pie cherry and hints of black plum that also persist through the lengthy finish and aftertaste. This is medium-bodied with good mouthfeel, deft balance and an underpinning of polished ripe tannin. Give this a go with a deli platter or charcouterie board or a roasted festive bird with all the fixings. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2021 Malivoire Wine Company Melon de Bourgogne was hand-harvested October 6th with 64% sourced from the Malivoire Estate Vineyard and 36% from the Mottiar Vineyard with the average grape sugars coming in at 19.7 ° Brix. The grapes were pressed in whole grape clusters. The primary fermentation, settling and ageing were completed in a horizontal stainless steel ‘milk tank’ with extended lees contact until bottled in December 2021. This is a fabulous wine that provides excellent value. Five or more bottles will earn you FREE shipping.

93 🇨🇦
Malivoire Wine Company Melon de Bourgogne 2021
VQA Beamsville Bench $21.95 12.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of casaba melon, camomile tea and ripe mango abound on this vegan-friendly, slightly yellow-hued gem. It spreads over the palate with delightful flavours of lime cordial and lemon pastille robed with a juicy and dazzling streak of tangy acidity that persists through the mouth-watering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. This is close to a match made in heaven when poured with freshly shucked briny oysters with two or three dots of hot sauce, a smidgeon of horseradish and a medium squeeze of fresh lemon or try with pan-seared fish or steamed shellfish. Remove from the home refrigerator about 15 to 20 minutes before pouring. If you have an instant-read thermometer, the winery suggests serving at 14 °C. (Vic Harradine)

LCBO ‘Limited Time Offers’ January 31st to February 27, 2022

• Regardless of the vintage you purchase from the LCBO, you’ll receive the discount shown below for each bottle of wine reviewed below that’s purchased (either ‘in person’ or online) from January 31st to February 27th, 2022, unless otherwise notified in the newsletter.

White Wines

• The following three white wines receive a $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below from January 31st to February 27, 2022.

• The following Kim Crawford Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

• The following white wine receives a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below January 31st to February 27th, 2022.

Red Wines

• The following seven red wines receive a $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below January 31st to February 27th, 2022.

• The following four red wines receive a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below January 31st to February 27th, 2022.

Other Wines and Spirits

• The following two wines will have $2.00 discounted from the regular price shown below for each bottle purchased from January 31st to February 27th, 2022.

• The following Kim Crawford Rosé is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

• The following wine will have $3.00 discounted from the regular price shown below for each bottle purchased from January 31st to February 27th, 2022.

• The following wine will have $5.00 discounted from the regular price shown below for each bottle purchased from January 31st to February 27th, 2022.

89 🇨🇦
Inniskillin Vidal Icewine
VQA Ontario $49.95 (388306) 375 mL 9.5% alcohol
This vidal icewine from Niagara expresses itself without reservation starting with lifted aromas of apricot, lemon and earthy notes. It blankets the palate with a textured wash of apricot tart, lime-soaked guava and orange marmalade. Lemon zest and grilled pineapple provide semblance balance on the finish and aftertaste. Serve well chilled on its own or paired with fruit flan or blue cheese. (Vic Harradine)

• Earn 190 Aeroplan bonus points from January 30th to February 26th, 2022.

*Stay safe, stay healthy and, if possible, reach out to help someone not as fortunate as you.

Best wishes, Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 12/31/22 Dave Isaacs 12/31/22

January 19, 2022 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over – no wine rang the 95 points and over bell.
Exceptional-value wine – There are exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Louise Loves – 2018 Victor Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon earned 89 points @ $19.95 found under California: Red Wine; 2019 Domaine Courtois ‘La Source’ Côtes-du-Rhône earned 90 points @ $14.95 found under France: Red Wine.
Vic Picks – 2019 Marynissen Estates Cabernet – Merlot earned 92 points @ $17.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; 2018 Jim Barry ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz earned 94 points @ $21.95 found under Australia: Red Wine; 2020 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay earned 90 points @ $14.95 found under New in Vintages now; 2018 Cune Crianza Tempranillo earned 91 points @ $15.95 found under New in Vintages now. 2019 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Nadja’s Vineyard’ Riesling earned 93 points @ $29.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries.

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over – no wine rang the 95 points and over bell.
Exceptional-value wine – There are exceptional-value wines found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the ✓ Value icon checkmark. Happy hunting!
Louise Loves – 2018 Victor Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon earned 89 points @ $19.95 found under California: Red Wine; 2019 Domaine Courtois ‘La Source’ Côtes-du-Rhône earned 90 points @ $14.95 found under France: Red Wine.
Vic Picks – 2019 Marynissen Estates Cabernet – Merlot earned 92 points @ $17.95 found under Ontario: White Wine; 2018 Jim Barry ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz earned 94 points @ $21.95 found under Australia: Red Wine; 2020 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay earned 90 points @ $14.95 found under New in Vintages now; 2018 Cune Crianza Tempranillo earned 91 points @ $15.95 found under New in Vintages now. 2019 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Nadja’s Vineyard’ Riesling earned 93 points @ $29.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries.

Vintages Release: January 22, 2022

Sparkling Wine

93 🇨🇦
Peller Estates ‘Ice Cuvée’ Rosé Non-Vintage
VQA Niagara Peninsula $36.95 (113035) 12.0% alcohol
A lovely salmon pink, this versatile sparkler combines Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as the base wine with a dash of icewine. It displays sweet, almost honeyed, red berry fruit on the nose. Just off-dry due to dosage with Cabernet Franc and Vidal icewine, it has a fine, light mousse and replays the lively berry flavours on the palate—think of sun-kissed, field-ripe strawberries and juicy, ripe currant. It’s refreshing with a hint of sweetness that lingers on the finish. This is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. (Susan Desjardins)

Ontario: Red Wine

• The following 2019 Marynissen Estates Cabernet – Merlot was sourced from a blend of 49% merlot/36% cabernet sauvignon/15% cabernet franc that was carefully selected and machine harvested from various Niagara Peninsula Vineyards from October 19 to November 15, 2019. The Marynissen Cabernet Sauvignon vines are the oldest commercial Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Canada. Fruit was destemmed and partially crushed then transferred to stainless steel tank where it was fermented warm on its skins from 14 to 28 days then pressed. The wines that were selected for this final blend were chosen—after maturing for eight months in stainless steel with French oak chips— for their aromatic profile and palate structure. This is drinking well now and will mature and improve with careful cellaring on to 2025.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Marynissen Estates Cabernet - Merlot 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (16713) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of cherry/berry fruit robed in savoury herbs and mixed spice abound on the nose preceding a gusher of deftly balanced palate flavours of black bramble berry, © Ribena and notions of kirsch liqueur. The tannins are smooth and polished while the finish and aftertaste replay palate flavours. Give this a go with grilled and smoked pork back ribs mopped with spicy barbeque sauce or your favourite fajitas—beef, chicken or pulled pork. The price-quality ratio skews well in your favour; pick up an armful. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

• The following 2018 Victor Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from small-town vignerons with over a century of dedication to providing quality grapes that went into the making of this quality red wine. Victor Vineyards is housed in the historic Victor Fruit Company with vineyards over 100 years old.

89
Victor Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Lodi, California $19.95 (438515) 14.9% alcohol
Ripe black fruit aromas--blackberry, cherry and cassis--ooze from the glass along with tobacco and hints of grilled herb. This medium-full bodied red flows on the palate with flavours of black cherry, plum, balsamic reduction and earthiness. Powdery tannin and good alcohol integration provide a pleasant warm dry finish with notes of prune and charred savoury herb in the aftertaste. Pour alongside grilled lamb sausages or stuffed Portobello mushrooms. (Louise Boutin)

Australia: Red Wine

• The following 2017 Jim Barry Wines ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz was sourced from low-yielding shiraz vines grown on soils of rich loam over near-vertical sheets of rock. The now soil-filled passageways allow vine roots to work their way down to water from this nature-induced drainage system. It should be noted that Jim Barry Wines was proclaimed by James Halliday as 2020 Australian Winery of the Year; a much sought-after recognition and prize in Australia. They are also members of the prestigious, ‘Australia’s First Families of Wine’.

94
Jim Barry ‘The Lodge Hill’ Shiraz 2018
Clare Valley, Australia $21.95 (998476) 14.0% alcohol
Bramble berry, blueberry and ripe mulberry intertwine with peppery spice flavours on entry to the palate before joining up with baking spice and dark bittersweet chocolate mid-palate. This showcases good balance, a supple underpinning of polished, fine-grain tannin and plenty of excellent acidity and touches of elegance. It’s medium-bodied, nicely textured with a lengthy and balanced finish and aftertaste. Pour with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

90 ✓ Value
Domaine Courtois ‘La Source’ Côtes-du-Rhône 2019
AOC Côtes-du-Rhône $14.95 (526640) 14.5% alcohol
This is another very good vintage for this youthful bright purple-shaded blend of 85% grenache and 15% syrah fresh out of the stainless steel tank. It’s an explosion of mixed berry character both on the nose and palate with a zesty tang, lots of young fine-grained tannin and graphite minerality. Medium-full bodied with excellent alcohol integration, it’s good to go now with braised beef and carrot roast or rare-grilled steak and will get better with a few more months of careful cellaring. Aerate/decant one hour before meal time. (Louise Boutin)

New in Vintages: (available now in most LCBO retail stores!)

• The following 2019 Marynissen Estates Cabernet Franc was mechanically harvested from select VQA Niagara Peninsula vineyards from November 5 to November 17, 2019. Fruit was destemmed and partially crushed then transferred to stainless steel tank where it was fermented warm on its skins from 14 to 28 days then pressed. The wines that were selected for this final blend were chosen—after maturing for eight months in stainless steel with French oak chips—for their aromatic profile and palate structure. This is drinking well now and will mature and improve with careful cellaring on to 2025.

93 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Marynissen Estates Cabernet Franc 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (23973) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of raspberry and dried currant waft easily from the glass decorated with pencil shavings and piquant peppery spice. It’s creamy smooth and well textured on the palate showcasing rich, luscious flavours of dark cherry, cassis and bramble berry adorned with excellent tang and pizzazz in the form of pie cherry and passionfruit that persist to and through the lingering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. There’s plenty to like here and the price-quality balance tips well in your favour. Pick up a few while they are still available. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2020 Vineland Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay is a Vintages Essential wine always available in select LCBO stores.

90 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Vineland Estates Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2020
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (669374) 12.5% alcohol
Lifted, alluring aromas of green apple, pear and floral notes precede a medium-weight mouthful of tangy apricot and off-dry Mirabelle plum intertwined with lemony citrus and a cartload of pizzazz. This showcases good balance of ripe fruit, tangy citrus and the yin and yang of sweet and tang running to and through the lingering finish and aftertaste. A great sipping wine on its own, it also has lots of dance partners at the table—a vegan-friendly green salad, roast chicken or pan-seared salmon, sushi or shellfish. The price-quality balance tips well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Cune Crianza Tempranillo is primarily sourced from Tempranillo at 85% and the remaining 15% is garnacha tinta and mazuelo in the highly rated Rioja appellation and is registered and accredited as vegan-friendly. It spent 12 months maturing in pre-loved American oak barrels.

91 ✓ Value
Cune Crianza Tempranillo 2018
DOCa Rioja, Spain $15.95 (39925) 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of tobacco and tea leaves interlace with red cherry/berry fruits and notions of exotic spice and vanilla. It’s medium-plus bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel and balanced and bountiful palate flavours—black currant, ripe mulberry and black raspberry—with an underpinning of polished, fine-grain tannin. It lingers on the balanced finish and aftertaste with distinctive and welcomed tangy acidity and notions of sweet vanilla extract. This is easily sipped on its own and really shines when paired with New Zealand spring lamb or Australian rack of lamb.

New in Ontario Wineries

• The first two Flat Rock wines will be available only at the winery, either online to be delivered to your home, business or restaurant or drive to the winery to pick up a curbside order made previously by phone or online; while the third wine is available at most LCBO stores as a Vintages Essential wine. Follow the winery link to online guidelines for ordering wine online and to the ever-changing provincial COVID-19 guidelines for visiting Niagara wineries including Flat Rock Cellars.

• The following 2019 Flat Rock Cellars (E{NV}Y Riesling was sourced from vines that were planted in 2014 making then five years old when fruit for this wine was harvested. They are planted a mere laneway away from the much-older Nadja’s vineyard and these younger vines are planted with a Geisenheim, Germany 239 clone.

91 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars (E{NV}Y Riesling 2019
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $29.95 10.0% alcohol
Sharp minerality aromas intertwine with citrus and orchard fruit on the nose of this spirited and captivating gem. There’s a laser-like streak of nerve and verve acidity underpinned with delightfully tangy pizzazz and grilled savoury herbs throughout. It captures and delights the palate with a powerful and delicious river of off-dry ambrosia delivering a lip-smacking palate-pleasing surge of lime cordial that continues through the mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own as an aperitif or with ham and Gruyère French toast sandwich. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2019 Flat Rock Cellars ‘Nadja’s Vineyard’ Riesling was sourced from this special estate vineyard from Clone 238, native to the Mosel River Valley in Germany with SO4 root stock. Fruit for this wine was picked when these vines were 18 years old. Riesling lovers will want to pick up a few bottles and drink over the next ten or so years.

93 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars ‘Nadja’s Vineyard’ Riesling 2019
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $29.95 11.5% alcohol
A gentle swirl reveals an aromatic nuanced nose sporting notions of flinty minerality, Key lime pie and piquant savoury spice. This explodes on the palate and persists through a monumentally long finish and aftertaste delivering mouthful after mouthful of deftly balanced yin and yang of sweetness—ripe orchard fruit—and tangy pizzazz—delightful lemon-lime citrus that leaves one looking for another glass or two. This is sublime sipped on its own and pairs up exceptionally well with steamed mussels or pan-seared scallops with a small side of fettucine and lightly creamed pesto sauce. (Vic Harradine)

New vintage in LCBO stores as a Vintages Essential wine.

• The following 2019 Flat Rock Cellars Riesling is a Vintages Essential wine found in most LCBO stores. It provides you an opportunity to taste premium riesling at an incredibly attractive price point. Pick up a few and drink over the next three to five years.

92 ✓ Value 🇨🇦
Flat Rock Cellars Riesling 2019
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $17.95 (43281) 10.5% alcohol
Piquant aromas of machine oil, mineral notes and citrus abound on the nose of this well paced, well-priced riesling. It envelops the palate with a tsunami wave of flavours with sharp lemon-lime acidity and tang and notions of off-dry sweet cantaloupe glazed with chalky minerality through the lengthy, balanced finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with a multitude of table partners—Thai fish cakes, a spicy Asian dish like Mou Shoo pork, a charcuterie board or an assortment of sushi. (Vic Harradine)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release: February 5, 2022

92
Luigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Maipú & Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina $18.95 (128629) 14.3% alcohol
Rich and luscious on the nose, this cabernet sauvignon freely gives up aromas of dark cherry fruit, bramble berry jam along with mixed spice and smoky notes. It envelops the palate with a tidal wave of delectable flavours with black plum and passionfruit mingling with piquant spice and grilled savoury herbs. It’s generously textured with good mouthfeel and an extended finish and aftertaste. The winery suggests a pairing with wild boar, if you find yourself out of wild boar, give rare-grilled venison a chance with a side of roasted root veggies. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: March 5, 2022

92
Drappier ‘Nature – Pinot Noir – Zéro Dosage’ Brut Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne $68.95 (179275) 12.5% alcohol
Pleasant aromas of floral notes, apple and baking brioche precede frothy mousse of fine-bead bubbles winding their way to the top of the glass. It’s lively and fresh on the palate with flavours of bracing, tang-laden citrus and pleasant minerality interlaced with notions of honeyed pit fruit. This is 100% pinot noir, hand-harvested, undergoing natural malolactic conversion before spending a minimum of 30 months in bottle on its lees before disgorgement and no sugar was added. The bottle these tasting notes and rating are based on was disgorged November, 2021. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: March 19, 2022

• Fonseca is now in its fifth generation of winemakers of the Guimaraens family who are revered in Portugal and among Port-lovers world-wide. Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port is bottled after at least four to six years of aging in wooden barrel and, like Vintage port, was sourced from a single vintage. However, LBV Port is ready to drink upon purchase. This wine was not fined nor filtered so deserves to be decanted and strained before serving.

92
Fonseca ‘Late Bottled Vintage Port’ 2015
Product of Portugal $23.95 (87551) 20.0% alcohol
Aromas of rich and luscious black fruit abound on the nose of this dazzling well-priced, high-octane Port. It’s smooth and mellow on the palate showcasing ripe black plum compote, sweet black cherry, figs, raisins and mocha and an underpinning of acceptable soft, ripe tannin on the palate, dry finish and aftertaste. You really can’t go wrong here given the price-quality balance that tips well in your favour. This is usually opened after a meal with a few cheeses—Stilton is a blue-veined cheese that’s a match made in heaven as are shards of Parmigiano Reggiano. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: TBD 2022

93
Famille Jaume ‘Pascal and Richard’ Cru des Côtes-du-Rhône 2020
AOC Gigondas, France $29.95 15.0% alcohol
This gorgeous, old vine, hand-harvested blend of 80% grenache/20% syrah shows attractive aromas of crushed mixed berries, plum, cola, black tea and a hint of rose petal. Beautiful alcohol integration leaves all the space for fresh berry flavours to shine along with mixed dry herb and notes of delicious briny black olives all wrapped in polished tannins slightly drying the palate. This versatile exquisite red is surprisingly lighter on its feet than expected, providing endless options for food pairing. Try slow cooked pot roast or thin-crust pizza with black olives or duck confit. (Louise Boutin)

91
André Brunel ‘Cuvée Sabrine’ 2019
AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages, France $16.95 (538496) 14.5% alcohol
This is a nice melange of mostly grenache with syrah and mourvèdre fermented in concrete vats and showcasing bright fruit aromas—black plum, strawberry compote, blackberry but also leather and a mild note of tobacco. This is medium-full bodied with fine-grained tannin flowing nicely on the palate and offering delicious flavours of ripe black fruit, savoury herb, a bright orange zest note and a touch of black pepper in the dry finish and delicious aftertaste. This is a hit with ratatouille or charcuterie board with olive tapenade. (Louise Boutin)

91 ✓ Value
Domaine Gouron Cabernet Franc 2020
AOP Chinon, Loire Valley, France $17.95 (470963) 13.0% alcohol
Vintage after vintage, this 100% cabernet franc never disappoints. Attractive cherry pie filling aromas paired with red bell pepper, bay leaf and a mild peppery note, it glides on the palate with softness and grace. Crunchy red fruit flavours, ripe black cherry and a bright pomegranate note travels the palate with just enough polished tannin to add a little grip before ending on a fruit forward, peppery dry finish. There are many reasons to love this medium-bodied red, including its price tag, so load-up the trunk and enjoy with Toulouse sausage and bell pepper medley, Hungarian goulash or eggplant parmigiana. (Louise Boutin)

92 ✓ Value
Domaine Les Pins ‘les Rochettes’ Cabernet Franc 2020
AOP Bourgueil, Loire Valley, France $17.95 13.5% alcohol
Young looking with its purple shade, this medium-bodied red has no oak contact but rather concrete tank maturation for 10 months before bottling. Mixed crushed berries, dark cherry, jalapeño and dusty gravel aromas charm the nose. Just like a silk blanket, it caresses the palate with juicy ripe cherry flavour, blackberry and a tangy raspberry note followed with a slight piquant effect developing as the über-fine ripe tannins appear in the dry, well-structured and savoury delicious finish. This a real gem and it will pair perfectly with duck confit or gourmet sausages with fine mustards. (Louise Boutin)

89 ✓ Value
Rocca dei Forti ‘Prosecco – Le Cuvée’ Charmat Non-Vintage
DOC Prosecco, Italy $14.95 11.5% alcohol
Pretty aromas of pear, honeydew melon and floral notes open the door to an uncomplicated and light bubbly, filling the mouth with a nice airy froth. Delicious flavours of green apple, pear and a bright note of lemon zest clean the palate with freshness and a crisp mouthfeel finish. This is perfect for salted munchies at the apero, alongside light cream pasta or as your sparkling cocktail topper in Aperol Spritz. (Louise Boutin)

90 ✓ Value
Rocca dei Forti Prosecco - Brut Rosé Charmat Sparkling Wine 2020
DOC Prosecco, Italy $15.95 11.5% alcohol
Pale salmon in the glass, this medium-light-bodied glera blend gets its color from a dash of pinot noir. Orchard fruits aromas to the fore, it also shows notes of field strawberry and a touch of earthiness. A light but expansive mousse completely fills the palate with delicious fresh and tart flavours of apple, red currant and cranberry with a mouth-watering finish and savoury aftertaste. Serve well chilled with tomato bruschetta or smoked salmon appetizers. (Louise Boutin)

Cheers!

Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic

Dave Isaacs 5/23/21 Dave Isaacs 5/23/21

May 23, 2021 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over — No wine rang the 95 points and over bell
Over 60 — There are over 60 wine reviews in this newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine — They're found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the icon checkmark in the May 29, 2021 Vintages Release and in categories following the release. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers —There are 24 wines that are reviewed in this newsletter and being discounted at the LCBO for up to a $5.00 rebate for each bottle purchased from May 24, to June 20, 2021, waiting to be discovered at the end of the newsletter.
Louise loves — 2018 Cave Spring Cellars 'Estate Grown' Chardonnay earned 91 points @ $19.95 found under Ontario: White Wine;Château des Charmes Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard Chardonnay 2017 earned 92 points @ $24.95 found under Upstream in winecurrent - Vintages Release: June 12, 2021; KIN Vineyard Carp Ridge Pinot Noir 2019 earned 92 points @ $44.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries.
Lisa likes — 2019 Bonny Doon Vineyard 'Vin Gris de Cigare' earned 90 points @ $19.95 found under Upstream in winecurrent -- Vintages Release: July 24, 2021;
Vic picks — 2019 Henry of Pelham 'Speck Family Reserve' Baco Noir earned 94 points @ $24.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries; Hola! 'Organic' Brut Cava Non-Vintage earned 90 points @ $17.95 found under Sparkling Wine; 2019 Bicycle Thief 'Red Blend' earned 89 points @ $15.95 for 1500 mL and 2019 Adesso Chardonnay earned 88 points @ $8.30 with both found under New in the LCBO (stock in LCBO retail stores now).

Newsletter Highlights:

95 points and over — No wine rang the 95 points and over bell
Over 60 — There are over 60 wine reviews in this newsletter.
Exceptional-value wine — They're found throughout the newsletter and easily spotted by the icon checkmark in the May 29, 2021 Vintages Release and in categories following the release. Happy hunting!
Limited Time Offers —There are 24 wines that are reviewed in this newsletter and being discounted at the LCBO for up to a $5.00 rebate for each bottle purchased from May 24, to June 20, 2021, waiting to be discovered at the end of the newsletter.
Louise loves — 2018 Cave Spring Cellars 'Estate Grown' Chardonnay earned 91 points @ $19.95 found under Ontario: White Wine;Château des Charmes Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard Chardonnay 2017 earned 92 points @ $24.95 found under Upstream in winecurrent - Vintages Release: June 12, 2021; KIN Vineyard Carp Ridge Pinot Noir 2019 earned 92 points @ $44.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries.
Lisa likes — 2019 Bonny Doon Vineyard 'Vin Gris de Cigare' earned 90 points @ $19.95 found under Upstream in winecurrent -- Vintages Release: July 24, 2021;
Vic picks — 2019 Henry of Pelham 'Speck Family Reserve' Baco Noir earned 94 points @ $24.95 found under New in Ontario Wineries; Hola! 'Organic' Brut Cava Non-Vintage earned 90 points @ $17.95 found under Sparkling Wine; 2019 Bicycle Thief 'Red Blend' earned 89 points @ $15.95 for 1500 mL and 2019 Adesso Chardonnay earned 88 points @ $8.30 with both found under New in the LCBO (stock in LCBO retail stores now).

Vintages Release: May 29, 2021

Sparkling Wine

90 ✅
Hola! 'Organic' Brut Cava Non-Vintage
DO Cava, Spain $17.95 (545848) 11.5% alcohol
This was sourced from the holy trinity of Cava grapes— zarello/macabeo/parellada. An unusual appellation, DO Cava does not refer to any geographical boundaries, but rather is a regulation that protects the way the wine is produced, which is, Méthode Traditionelle. An elegant swath of aromas float from the glass with apple, pear and apricot in the mix along with sharp lemon. It's generous on the palate with creamy smooth texture, good balance and a refreshing finish decorated with lemon and grapefruit tang. Pour on its own or with sushi or ceviche. The price-quality balance tips wildly in your favour; pick up an armful. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

Low-yielding chardonnay vines averaging 30 years old provided excellent fruit for the following 2018 Cave Spring Cellars 'Estate Grown' Chardonnay. It matured in older oak casks before bottling.

91 ✅
Cave Spring Cellars 'Estate Grown' Chardonnay 2018
VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 (256552) 13.5% alcohol
This presents with a rich nose of orchard fruit, anise and vanilla notes opening the door to a medium-full bodied wash of delicious ripe pear and peach flavours lifted with tangy and slightly pithy citrus. It is perfectly balanced with an enjoyable warm and lasting dry finish, replaying anise and vanilla notes. Pour alongside prawn risotto. (Louise Boutin)

Australia: Red Wine

The following 2018 Bleasdale Vineyards 'The Potts Family — Mulberry Tree' -- Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 90% cabernet sauvignon/5% petit verdot/3% merlot/2% cabernet franc sourced exclusively from the GI of Langhorne Creek, South Australia. It was de-stemmed and crushed to open fermenters for a brief soak, Fermentation peak was held to 28 °C with pump overs up to four times daily. It was then drained and pressed after 8 to 12 days on skins including up to 5 days post-ferment maceration then settled for 24 hours before racking to oak for malolactic fermentation. It then spent 12 months maturing in French oak puncheons, 10% new.

90 ✅
Bleasdale Vineyards 'The Potts Family — Mulberry Tree' -- Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Langhorne Creek, South Australia $19.95 (661892) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of red berry fruit and notions of minty notes precede a satin-smooth, balanced and beautiful stream of palate flavours with black cherry and bramble berry interwoven with excellent acidity and soft, ripe tannin. This is medium bodied with the fresh fruit flavours on the palate persisting through the long finish and aftertaste. There's good symmetry between fruit flavours, acidity and tannin. Pour with burgers, pizza or wings. There's exceptional-value here. (Vic Harradine)

France: Red Wine

90 ✅
Pierre Lurton Bordeaux 2016
AOC Bordeaux $19.95 (632984) 14.5% alcohol
This finely crafted, affordable Bordeaux is red plum in colour with an enticing nose of vanilla, strawberry, dried herbs and pepper. It's full bodied on the palate with smooth but significant tannins and a great balance of acidity. Flavours of sour cherry, vanilla and mocha meld pleasantly along with flavours of mocha sustaining themselves through the finish. This is drinking beautifully today and will be even better in a couple of years. It's a good match for coffee-rubbed roast beef. (Dave Isaacs)

Upstream in Winecurrent

Vintages Release June 12th, 2021

Crafted like a Blanc de Blancs champagne with 100% chardonnay, this Méthode Traditionnellebubbly from Château des Charmesis aged in bottle for at least two years while resting on its lees from its 2^nd^ fermentation in the bottle(s) you purchase. The bottles are disgorged just before being released from the winery, a sign of extra special care for a premium quality wine.

93
Château des Charmes 'Blanc de Blancs' Sparkling Wine 2016
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $34.95 (423111) 12.5% alcohol
This is a crystalline pale-yellow shaded sparkling gem with vivid tiny beads rising to the top of the glass and lifting delicate aromas of pear, lemon rind, brioche and slate minerality. A dense and soft-like-meringue froth fills the palate with yellow apple and pear flavours adorned with a layer of lemon curd, a touch of vanilla and finishing on a beautiful crisp and airy mineral note. This can further evolve with additional cellaring but why wait, it is so gorgeous right now. Enjoy on its own or with seafood salad or grilled halibut under a squeeze of lemon. (Louise Boutin)

Vintages Release June 12th, 2021

The following gamay noir droit is sourced from Château des Charmes very own mutant clone, discovered in their vineyard in the early 1980s. This was the first vinifera vine born in Canada and that granted them International Breeder's Rights making them the only producer in the world allowed to grow this vine and produce a wine called Gamay Noir Droit. In order to highlight the uniqueness of the varietal, no oak is used in the winemaking process.

90 ✅
Château des Charmes Gamay Noir Droit 2018
VQA St. David's Bench $19.95 (346742) 12.5% alcohol
Expect aromas of sour cherry, dry cranberry, forest floor and a smoked note in the background. This is a medium-light bodied flow of ripe red fruit flavours travelling easily on the palate, grabbing along the way tangy raspberry and earthy notes and revealing a soft chalky tannin structure in the dry pleasant finish. Chill for about 15 minutes and pair with charcuterie or chicken brochettes on the grill. (Louise Boutin)

Vintages Release: June 26, 2021

The following Maison Saint Aix Rosé 2020 was sourced in "... one of the best Aix vintages ever". The blend in this wine is classic—60% grenache/20% syrah/20% cinsault—and was harvested in the coolest part of the day—between 4 and 10 am. This wine is served in Michelin-starred restaurants around the world.

91
Maison Saint Aix 'Aix' Rosé 2020
AOP Coteaux d'Aix en Provence, France $24.95 (451906) 13.0% alcohol
Watermelon rind aromas meet citrus and pretty freesia flower notes in this popular rosé. A little tingle on the tip of the tongue introduces delicious flavours of nectarine, ruby grapefruit and a piquant ginger note delivered in a medium-bodied fashion and a nice chalky minerality emerging in the dry satisfying finish. An excellent sipper to share with friends or pair with fresh watermelon and feta salad. (Louise Boutin)

Vintages Release: July 10, 2021

The following 2016 Henry of Pelham 'Estate' Cabernet-Merlot is certified by Sustainable Winemaking Ontario. Low-yielding, 3 tonnes per acre, hand-harvested fruit was sourced from estate vineyards on the Short Hills Bench, destemmed, sorted and partially fermented in oak tank with extended maceration. It matured in European and American oak, 30% new, then blended in an oak tank with total time in wood reaching ten months.

90
Henry of Pelham 'Estate' Cabernet-Merlot 2016
VQA Short Hills Bench $24.95 (395855) 13.5% alcohol
Lots of peppery character on the nose but also ripe dark fruit, cedar and graphite with this Bordeaux-styled red blend. Über silky-textured at first, it morphs into a robust juice of ripe blackberry and cassis flavours joined with savoury dry herbs, bright acidity and black peppercorn notes persisting in the very dry finish. This has cellaring potential with its grippy tannin but will be delicious with rare, grilled flank steak, seasoned with 'Montreal steak' spice mix. Aerate/decant two hours. (Louise Boutin)

Vintages Release: July 10, 2021

The following2020 Quail's Gate Rosé was sourced from gamay and pinot noir fruit that was on skins for one hour for colour before each varietal was cool-fermented separately in stainless steel then blended before bottling. This family-owned winery is now managed by 3^rd^ generation Okanagan family winemakers.

89
Quail's Gate Rosé 2020
VQA Okanagan Valley, B.C. $19.95 (275842) 12.0% alcohol
Pale pink in colour, this charming rosé gently releases aromas of red currant, strawberry and nectarine backed by a pleasant floral note. It's dry, medium-light bodied with flavours of wild strawberry, savoury herbs and bright citrus on the refreshing palate lifted by a spritz of pink grapefruit on the lengthy finish. Enjoy this summer sipper with a green salad adorned with chilled shrimp. (Lisa Isabelle)

Vintages Release: July 10, 2021

The following 2019 Gérard Bertrand 'cote des roses' Pinot Noir is a work of art. The base of the bottle has a rose carved out of the glass by a young designer from Ecole Boulle and the winery suggests you handle it as you would a bouquet of roses, especially when presenting to someone before pouring. The fruit was sourced from various soil types, but mainly hard limestone and schist and also gravel from rivers in the Languedoc region. Perfectly ripe fruit was harvested in late September. Grapes were then destemmed before macerating in vats for 10 to 15 days. The cap was punched down and pumped over frequently. The wine then matured for several months in 225-litre barrels.

89
Gérard Bertrand 'cote des roses' Pinot Noir 2019
IGP Pays d'Oc, France $19.95 (20751) 13.0% alcohol
Ripe cherry, plum and blackberry aromas are garnished with hints of lavender, rose petals and a dusty mineral note on the nose before finding their way effortlessly to the palate. This dry, medium bodied, easy-drinking red delivers gentle tannins, a silky mouthfeel and a juicy, cherry-berry finish. Hints of dark chocolate and baking spice appear on the aftertaste. Pair with a selection of cheese and charcuterie. (Lisa Isabelle)

Vintages Release: July 24, 2021

The following 2020 Bonny Doon Vineyard 'Vin Gris de Cigare' is also labelled, 'Pink Wine of the Earth'. It's a blend of 71% grenache/11% cinsault/5% clairette blanche/5% grenache blanc/4% mourvèdre/4% vermentino from multiple AVAs in California's Central Coast. After fermentation, this wine was left on its lees to capture creamy texture on the palate.

90 ✅
Bonny Doon Vineyard 'Vin Gris de Cigare' 2020
Central Coast, California $19.95 (880501) 13.5% alcohol
This pale-salmon coloured rosé opens with an intriguing nose of ripe orchard fruit, orange blossom, rose hips and fennel with a suggestion of brioche. Dry, medium bodied and nicely textured, flavours of ripe peach, melon and rhubarb wash over the tasty palate and are carried by mouth-watering acidity through the persistent finish. Serve this versatile, well-priced rosé with a seared tuna appetizer. (Lisa Isabelle)

New in the LCBO (stock in LCBO retail stores now)

Fruit for the following wine was gently pressed and separated from skins preserving only the purest juice then cool fermented. The following Aria Wine Company 'Aria' Sparkling Rosé Non-Vintage was fashioned by the Charmat method with the second fermentation completed in a sealed tank before being bottled.

87 ✅
Aria Wine Company 'Aria' Sparkling Rosé Non-Vintage
VQA Ontario $14.95 (14981) 11.5% alcohol
Here's a pleasing sparkling to enjoy on the patio this summer. Aromas of strawberry-rhubarb jam, ripe peach and white flower aromas introduce a sweet wave of candy apple, lemon drops and mandarin orange flavours on the lively palate. Light bodied with a gentle mousse, it finishes mid-length with a hint of grapefruit pith on the aftertaste. (Lisa Isabelle)

The following 2018 Bicycle Thief 'Red Blend' was sourced from a variety of premium red grapes that are most often used in making Port wine—touriga franca/tinta roriz/touriga nacional/trincadeira. It's 1500 mL which is equal to two bottles of 750 mL glass bottles, It's in a tetra pack that chills in 65% less time than an ordinary bottle. It will stay fresh up to six weeks after opening. It's great for picnics, outdoor gatherings and sharing with friends, particularly the elderly. Before my mother passed, she had a dear friend who would go to the LCBO for her and bring back wine-in-a-box as she lacked the strength to remove a cork from a bottle.

89 ✅
Bicycle Thief 'Red Blend' 2018
Portugal $15.95 (18995) 1500 mL 13.0% alcohol
It takes a few seconds to open up and when it does, it delivers highly perfumed aromas of floral notes, baking spice and cherry/berry notes. It's smooth on entry with palate-flavours of red and black fruit, ripe and rarin' to go—black raspberry, pie cherry and plenty of tang and pizzazz. It's pleasing, balanced and bountiful on the palate. Pleasant on its own it will match anything the average red wine will pair with. Give it a try. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2020 Gérard Bertrand 'cote des roses' Rosé is a work of art. The base of the bottle has a rose carved out of the glass by a young designer from Ecole Boulle and the winery suggests you handle it as you would a bouquet of roses, especially when presenting to someone before pouring. This wine is also a Vintages Essentials wine, always seasonally available in select stores. This was fashioned by a traditional blend of the Languedoc—grenache/syrah/cinsault. These three grape varieties were harvested and sorted separately with each at the peak of ripeness. At the winery they were destemmed, cooled to 8 °C then transferred to the press where only the first high-quality juice is retained for this wine. It is then fermented over 15 to +30 days followed by a light fining then bottled.

90 ✅
Gérard Bertrand 'cote des roses' Rosé 2020
AOP Languedoc, France $18.95 (373985) 13.5% alcohol
Here's a fresh bouquet of peach, pink grapefruit, watermelon and floral aromas getting along perfectly. Round on the palate without being heavy, you'll find flavours of strawberry and fresh apricot, a touch of white pepper and orange peel leaving a refreshing aftertaste in the dry and slightly spicy finish. This is a great sipper on its own or try with a Cobb salad for a delicious pairing. (Louise Boutin)

87
Humante Red Garnacha 2019
DO Navarra, Spain $9.20 (11705) 13.5%
Aromas of red and dark fruit intertwine with savoury herbs and notions of tobacco leaf. It races across the palate on a line of nerve and verve expressed as bracing acidity on entry along with pie cherry and passionfruit and drying tannin on the back palate and finish. Pour with pastitsio, lasagna, or calzone. (Vic Harradine)

The following Gérard Bertrand Gris Blanc Rosé 2020 is based on fruit from grenache vines with fruit protected as handling is done in a carbon dioxide atmosphere until the low-temperature fermentation begins — 15 to 18 °C — then it is matured on the fine lees for several weeks before bottling.

90 ✅
Gérard Bertrand Gris Blanc Rosé 2020
IGT Pays d'Oc, France $15.95 (14673) 13.0% alcohol
Almost water white in color with a salmon tinged, this rosé offers nectarine aromas along with citrus pith, white flower and dusty stone notes. It fills the mouth with a nice round and softly-textured wash coating the palate with flavours of orchard fruit and orange flesh evolving to refreshing pithy citrus flair and a mouth-watering, mineral, dry finish. This is an exceptional-value rosé worth stocking up for the summer. Sip with salted nuts or pour alongside an appetizer of prosciutto and nectarine or fried calamari. (Louise Boutin)

88 ✅
Adesso Chardonnay 2019
Product of Italy $8.30 (572461) 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of green apple, spice and citrus notes precede a medium-bodied stream of flavours with ripe pear and lime cordial to the fore. It's nicely balanced with excellent tang and acidity, ripe fruit flavours and lingering finish and aftertaste. It's vegan-friendly and you can't beat the price; pick up a few for summer imbibing or pair with veggie burgers, fish, seafood, pork or chicken. (Vic Harradine)

87 ✅
Adesso Merlot 2019
Product of Italy $8.30 (572453) 12.0% alcohol
Floral notes and cherry/berry aromas dominate the nose on this medium-bodied tang-laden merlot. It delivers a river of crunchy red fruit flavours with passionfruit and hints of cranberry on the palate then persisting through the finish and aftertaste. It pours well with pasta in tomato sauce or red-sauce pizza topped with tomato slices and pepperoni. It's difficult to find a better red wine at this price. (Vic Harradine)

The following CVNE 'Cune' Rioja Crianza 2017 is from an iconic winery dating back to the late 1800s. This is primarily sourced from tempranillo (85%) plus garnacha tinta and mazuelo that was matured for 12 months in American oak barrels before bottling. The vineyards are mostly estate, but there is also fruit sourced from vineyards of local growers with generations of history between them. This wine is suitable for vegans.

91 ✅
CVNE 'Cune' Rioja Crianza 2017
DOCa Rioja, Spain $15.95 (39925) 13.5% alcohol
Respected wineries' entry level wines usually deliver above the price tag and this one is no exception. Starting with a complex nose of red cherry, tobacco leaf, fresh dill and a dusty stone note. This is a medium-bodied red gliding on the tongue like a silky blanket with a high dose of red fruit tanginess, earthy flavour and a delicious peppery finish. Tannins are ripe and slightly drying in the cheeks, adding just a nice touch of character in this very harmonious red Rioja. Enjoy with artisan sausages or stuffed Portobello mushroom. (Louise Boutin)

New in Ontario Wineries

Purchase the following wine online from Château des Charmes for daily home, restaurant or office delivery or visit their Ottawa retail store in Minto Place at Laurier and Lyon or buy at their winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake -1025 York Rd, St. David's Ontario L0S 1P0. Here's a map.

92
Château des Charmes 'Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard' Chardonnay 2017
VQA St. David's Bench $24.95 (287268) 12.5% alcohol
Fermentation and ageing in French oak barrels for twelve months with regular bâtonnage often leads to more colouration in the wine but the nose of this pale-yellow chardonnay doesn't lie—pear, citrus, melon, melted butter and a touch of nutmeg. It gets even better on the palate with a lovely ample mouthfeel offering ripe orchard fruit flavours, juicy pineapple, freshly baked bread, exotic spice and loads of slate minerality in the lengthy crisp and dry finish. This is totally enjoyable on its own but it will be at its best with, bacon-wrapped scallops on the grill or fresh lobster with clarified butter. There's very good value here. (Louise Boutin)

Order the following wine by the bottle(s) or case(s) for daily delivery to home, office or restaurant online from this link to Henry of Pelham — There is free delivery on 12 or more bottles in Ontario. Select '12 Bottles+' at check out and allow up to 10 days for delivery or, order online then pick up bottle(s) or case(s) from the winery at 1469 Pelham Rd, St. Catharines ON. Here's a map.
The following 2019 Henry of Pelham 'Speck Family Reserve' Baco Noir is quite special. Baco Noir is an especially successful hybrid grape amongst a small number that could be called 'highly successful' and possibly stands alone when referred to as 'elegant, stylish or distinguished'. However, I believe this wine flirts with all three descriptors. It's sourced from a single vineyard 'Block 106' that the Speck brothers planted manually by shovel in a somewhat less than perfect pattern as it meanders somewhat rather than the usual row after row after row of perfectly aligned vines, posts and trellis wire. The first vines were planted in 1984, making them 35-years-old when harvested for this wine. This matured in a combination of new, second-fill and third-fill American oak barriques then partially finished in 5000L oak foudres for a combined 12 months.

94
Henry of Pelham 'Speck Family Reserve' Baco Noir 2019
VQA Ontario $24.95 (461699) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of bramble berry, mixed piquant spice and black cherry abound on the nose of this dazzling baco noir. It envelops the palate with a surge of fruit flavours—ripe black currant and juicy Bing cherry intertwined with wisps of black plum compote and a glorious balancing streak of excellent tang and acidity mirrored by a streak of minerality. This showcases deft balance, persistent purity of fruit and excellent smooth and mellow taste, mouthfeel and a monumentally lengthy finish and aftertaste. Pour on its own or alongside grilled striploin or prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)

Order the following two wines online from this Kin Vineyard link and have delivered to your door in the Ottawa region. At the present time, due to COVID restrictions, their tasting room is closed. Thank you for supporting a local business.
Five months of fermentation with indigenous yeast in French oak, 19% new, and the rest in neutral oak and stainless steel combined with weekly bâtonnage and minimal filtration before bottling leads to this Carp Ridge signature cold climate chardonnay below.

91
KIN Vineyard Carp Ridge Chardonnay 2019
VQA Ontario $39.95 12.5% Alcohol
You'll be greeted with a pretty nose of pear and apple flavour combined with roasted nuts and crushed fennel seed. This medium-bodied round-textured white treats the palate with a nice citrus medley of flavours mingling with peach and lemon curd character finishing on a delicious and satisfying buttered toast note with chalky minerality. I can't wait to pair this with steamed mussels with cream sauce and leeks, crispy fish cakes or to simply enjoy on its own. (Louise Boutin)

This Carp Ridge pinot noir blend of six different clones is KIN's second vintage of this wine. It's fermented with indigenous yeast and matured nine months in a combination of French oak, 25% new, with the balance neutral oak and stainless steel.

92
KIN Vineyard Carp Ridge Pinot Noir 2019
VQA Ontario $44.95 11.5% alcohol
Sourced from 100% hand-harvested and sorted fruit from Carp Ridge Vineyard, this pinot is pale-garnet with a beautiful delicate nose of crunchy red fruit, cinnamon bark and dry rose petal aromas. This is light-medium bodied and full of delicious tart flavours—red cherry, pomegranate, cranberry—delivered in a silky-textured fashion until soft chalky tannin meet dry thyme and a spiced note persisting in the surprisingly lengthy and very harmonious dry finish. This vintage gained in ripeness and complexity and will be a perfect match with pan-seared rainbow trout, charcuterie board or red tuna tartare. (Louise Boutin)

The following 13 wines do not yet have a set date for their Vintages Release.

The following 2019 Carmim Terra Lenta 'Premium' is sourced from a red blend of manually harvested 40% alicante bouschet/ 30% trincadeira (a.k.a. tinta amarela)/30% arogonez grapes that are immediately destemmed and crushed at the winery with selected yeasts added. It's then fermentation starts at a controlled 26 °C and using a pump-over system while maceration extends to approximately two weeks. It is filtered before bottling.

89 ✅
Carmim Reduengos 'Terra Lenta - Premium' 2019
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $13.95 (646083) 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of kirsch liqueur, plum compote, a bit of earthiness and a whiff of alcohol introduce a purple-shaded wash of juicy ripe fruit—dark plum, blackberry and cherry. While slightly hot on the palate, this wine has a nice soft fruit texture with chalky tannin showing up midway through, along with peppery notes and tangy raspberry persisting in the finish and aftertaste. This full-bodied red is delicious with Toulouse sausages on the grill or a mild tomato sauce pasta dish. Aerate/decant one hour before service. (Louise Boutin)

The following 2020 Domaine le Champ des Murailles 'Cuvée Classique' was sourced from a classic regional blend of 40% carignan/30% grenache/30% syrah from vines 25 to 60 years old and hand harvested. After carbonic maceration, or destalking—depending on the particular grape variety—it was then aged for a few months in stainless steel tank.

89
Domaine le Champ des Murailles 'Cuvée Classique' 2020
AOP Corbiéres, France $18.95 14.5% alcohol
Aromas of blackberry, dark plum, cedar and a hint of mint precede a smooth flow of ripe berry fruit supported by savoury herbs and a hint of baking spice. Dry, medium-full bodied with a silky texture, dark berry fruit flavours are enjoyed on the warming, mid-length finish. Enjoy with an array of grilled meats. (Lisa Isabelle)

The following 2017 Carmim Reduengos 'Seleção Reserva' Tinto is a red blend of 40% alicante bouschet/20% aragonez/20% trincadeira (a.k.a. tinta amarela)/20% syrah hand-harvested fruit. Grapes are destemmed and pressed with fermentation carried out at a controlled 28 °C and maceration lasting 15 days. The wine is then partially aged in vats for one year while the balance is matured in Portuguese and French oak barrels.

90 ✅
Carmim Reduengos 'Seleção Reserva' Tinto 2017
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $16.95 15.0% alcohol
Expect an expressive nose of dark cherry, purple plum, tobacco leaf and a distant note of baking spice in this full-bodied red. Charming on the palate with a silky textured flow of mixed berry, dark plum, and piquant cinnamon flavour, it then lets its chalky tannins come out morphing into an astringent liquid carrying black olive and peppery character in the warm finish and aftertaste. Plan ahead and aerate/decant two hours to get the best out of this 'tinto', alongside grilled-rare flank steak or with a charcuterie board. (Louise Boutin)

91
J. de Villebois Sauvignon Blanc 2020
AOP Touraine, Loire Valley, France $17.95 13.0% alcohol
Lifted aromas of ripe tropical fruit, floral and notions of flinty notes. It bathes the palate with a lovely wash of ripe, juicy flavours of lemon-lime cordial underpinned, balanced and decorated with racy tang and acidity. It's mellow and smooth, stylish and delicious from cork pop to last drop. Crisp and refreshing on its own, it also shines with chèvre crumbled over olive-oiled arugula or steamed mussels or crab cakes. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2020 Artisans Partisans 'Cuvée Alice' was sourced from vineyards from 20 to 40 years of age froman eclectic blend of regional red grapes—50% carignan/30% grenache noir/10% cinsault/10% mourvèdre that express themselves as emblematic of the region.

89
Artisans Partisans 'Cuvée Alice' 2020
AOP Corbières, France $15.95 12.5% alcohol
This opens the door with youthful aromas of dark fruits—blackberry, cassis and plum—complemented with a hint of dry bush and black tea. This is an easy drinking medium-bodied red full of juicy fruit flavours similar to those of the aromas, plus tangy raspberry, a peppery note and mixed dry herb in the finish. This is lighter in alcohol and perfect for the hot summer days alongside grilled lamb burger. (Louise Boutin)

The following 2020 Artisans Partisans Cuve No. 102 is an accredited organic wine sourced from 50% carignan/40% grenache noir/10% syrah vines from 30 - 70 years of age with an approximate yield of 40 hl/ha.

90 ✅
Artisans Partisans 'Cuve No. 102' 2020
AOP Languedoc, France $19.95 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of ripe dark fruit and dry strawberry mingle with cured meat and a ferrous note in this southern France red blend. It's medium-bodied and flows nicely with flavours of ripe cherry, red berry, orange peel and dry herbs completing the picture. Tannins are powdery and add fine texture to the savoury finish. This versatile crowd pleaser will be a hit at your next barbecue party. (Louise Boutin)

90
Damilano 'barbera d'asti' 2019
DOCG Barbera D'Asti, Italy $18.95 (541771) 15.0% alcohol
Piquant spice, floral notes and red cherry/berry fruit provides segue to a tangy river of palate flavours with passionfruit, mixed spice and juicy black cherry to the fore. It's light-medium bodied with plenty of flavour, tangy acidity, ripe cherry fruit, and a boatload of pizzazz. Give it a go with charcuterie, a deli platter or spaghetti Bolognese. (Vic Harradine)

The following 2020 Domaine Jaume Côtes du Rhône was sourced from hand- and machine-harvested—70% grenache/20% syrah/10% mourvèdre fruit—from vines with an average age of twenty years. All fruit was destemmed and pressed gently with 8 to 10 days spent in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats then bottled the following spring.

91 ✅
Domaine Jaume Côtes du Rhône 2020
AOC Côtes du Rhône, France $16.95 14.0% alcohol
There's terrific value in this charming red blend. It displays aromas of plums and cherries mingling in harmony with anise, black pepper and violets before dark fruit and spice notes cascade over the tangy palate. Dry, medium-full bodied, it's well balanced with supple tannins and bright acidity and exhibits an appealing freshness on the medium-long, flavourful finish. Serve with grilled pork and vegetable brochettes. (Lisa Isabelle)

The following 2020 Le Champ des Murailles 'la Petite Muraille' is a blend of 50% carignan/30% grenache/20% syrah sourced from vines 25 to 50 years old with soils of sandstone and clay-limestone. Fruit was destemmed and crushed and was macerated between 12 and 14 days with simple wetting of the marc the cool-fermented between 20 and 25 °C.

89
Le Champ des Murailles 'la Petite Muraille' 2020
AOP Corbiéres, France $16.95 14.0% alcohol
This red blend presents with aromas of black plum, blackberry, cherry, tobacco leaf and earthy notes before introducing a soft and juicy stream of black fruit flavour, joined with tangy raspberry and mixed dry herb profile. This is medium-bodied with a good integration of alcohol and offers a fruit-forward dry finish with chalky textured tannins. Slide the gourmet burgers off the barbecue and pop the cork! (Louise Boutin)

The following 2020 Château Ollieux Romanis 'Grand Vin Du Languedoc — Cuvée Classique' was manually harvested from a classic blend of 40% carignan/30% grenache/30% syrah sourced from vines ten to fifteen years old with soils of red Mediterranean stone on sandstone. A portion of the carignan underwent carbonic maceration while the grenache and syrah were destemmed then fermented for 15 days under controlled temperature then aged in stainless steel tanks.

92 ✅
Château Ollieux Romanis 'Grand Vin Du Languedoc — Cuvée Classique' 2020
AOP Corbières, France $18.95 14.5% alcohol
Carbonic maceration sometimes leads to over-the-top bubble gum aromas but not here. Instead, crushed mixed berry, black cherry and fresh rose aromas please the nose. This organic, medium-full bodied red blend has a very pleasant juicy mouthfeel with an impressive alcohol and fine-sand tannin integration leaving all the room for the fruit flavours to shine—ripe black plum, cherry, blackberry. The finish carries the dark fruit qualities with a peppery and savoury delicious aftertaste. Totally worth discovering with duck confit on braised red cabbage. (Louise Boutin)

92
Damilano 'Marghe Nebbiolo 2018
DOC Langhe, Italy $22.95 (576793) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of exotic spice, floral and earthy notes abound on the nose. It envelops the palate with a well-balanced stream of crunchy red fruit—currant, cherry and cranberry—riding a wave of tangy acidity—and joined by ripe fruit flavours by mid-palate—black raspberry and black currant preserves adorned with savoury herbs. It's medium-full bodied with good mouthfeel and a lingering finish and aftertaste. Pour with coq au vin or osso buco. (Vic Harradine)

LCBO 'Limited Time Offers' — May 24 to June 20, 2021

Regardless of the vintage you purchase from the LCBO, you'll receive the discount shown for each bottle of wine reviewed below that's purchased May 24 to June 20, 2021.

White Wine

The following winereceives a $1.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below that's purchased between May 24 and June 20, 2021.

88 ✅
Fielding 'Unoaked' Chardonnay
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (164491) 12.5% alcohol
Appealing aromas of green apple, pear, peach and citrus notes with notions of honeysuckle and spice precede nicely-textured palate-bathing flavours of red apple, lemon peel and beeswax. Dry and medium bodied, it's creamy smooth and nicely textured due to time spent on its lees. Well balanced with refreshing acidity, it finishes mid-plus length with a pleasant mineral aftertaste. Pair this mouth-watering, exceptional-value chardonnay with chicken breast in a Dijon-tarragon cream sauce. (Lisa Isabelle)

The following seven white wines receive a $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below May 24 to June 2, 2021.

87
Bollino Pinot Grigio
DOC Trentino, Italy $18.95 951319) 14.0% alcohol
Delicate aromas of straw and floral notes open the door to a medium-bodied, nicely textured wash of crisp refreshing white grapefruit intertwining with Granny Smith apple and mineral notes bathing the palate infusing the clean, zippy-dry finish and aftertaste. Pour this clean, mouth-watering pinot grigio with grilled fish or seafood under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

The following winery, Colombia Crest, is owned by Chateau Ste Michelle. Twenty-two percent of the fruit was pressed and settled in stainless steel, the balance was aged and hand-stirred, once-a-week in one- to three-year-old French and American oak barrel for nine months. The following is a fabulous wine at a deep discount. Pick up a few.

92 ✅
Columbia Crest Chardonnay
Columbia Valley, Washington State $17.95 (462846) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of spiced apple, pear and apricot introduce a gorgeous mouthful of ginger-infused tropical fruit and lemon pie filling. This is mid-plus weight with generous mouthfeel and oodles of charm. It finishes lengthy and luxurious with loads of fruit crowned with excellent moderating acidity. Pour with roast bird, pan-seared, firm fish or crown roast pork. (Vic Harradine)

The following 'Flat Rock Cellars 'Twisted' is the #1 selling white wine in LCBO's 'Vintages Essentials' category. This vintage, the grape blend is 69% riesling/17% gewürztraminer/14% chardonnay.

91 ✅
Flat Rock Cellars 'Twisted — White'
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (1578) 11.0% alcohol
There are aromas of green apple, ripe pear with wisps of lychee fruit and minerality on the nose of this lovely white blend. On the palate it's medium bodied and generously textured with flavours galore—lime cordial, ripe pineapple, apple and scads of tangy pizzazz. It's a tad off-dry and quite nicely balanced with complexity and persistent purity of fruit. The finish is crisp and refreshing with each sip bringing you back for more. There's enough interest here to drink on its own, but a pairing with spicy chicken masala or General Tso's chicken are inspired choices. (Vic Harradine)

The following Kim Crawford Chardonnay is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

90 ✅
Kim Crawford Chardonnay
Marlborough/Hawke's Bay $19.95 (991950) 13.5% alcohol
This popular and well-priced chardonnay is clean and fresh on the nose with lots of mineral, peach, and floral aromas. It's medium-full bodied on the palate with juicy acidity and flavours of apple and peach that fade in a luxuriously refreshing finish. Enjoy with Camembert cheese. (Dave Isaacs)

90 ✅
Malivoire 'Estate Grown' Chardonnay
VQA Beamsville Bench $19.95 (573147) 12.5% alcohol
A shy nose of Granny Smith apple and hints of baking spice aromas provide segue to a delightful array of deftly balanced palate flavours with honey-drizzled apple interwoven with lemon curd and sweet Bosc pear that persists throughout. This is medium weight, nicely textured and well balanced with a good seam of tang, persistent purity of fruit, plenty of charm and a delightfully lingering finish. It also offers a price-quality ratio tipped well in your favour - stock up. (Vic Harradine)

87
Mer Soleil 'Reserve' Chardonnay
Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County $34.95 (958975) 14.9% alcohol
Baking spice, caramel and toasty, buttery aromas unleash a huge gusher of flavour that will leave few imbibers without a strong opinion. If you're looking for a full-bodied, fully textured, high-octane, tsunami wave of rich, luscious, sweet flavours—grilled pineapple, oak-inspired vanillin and caramel apple—then you should love this. There are tropical fruit notes along with ripe pear, a bit of citrus pith and wisps of oak on the sweet-tinged finish and aftertaste—not for the faint of palate. (Vic Harradine)

93 ✅
Vineland Estates 'Elevation - St. Urban Vineyard' Riesling
VQA Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (38117) 9.5% alcohol
Lifted aromas of lemony citrus, buckwheat honey and notions of petrol precede a dazzling off-dry surge of lemon-lime cordial, a bowl of tropical fruit—pineapple, mango, rambutan—along with oodles of tangy pizzazz persisting from the first drop through the palate to the delicious, balanced and beautiful finish and aftertaste. This is quite special. Pour on its own or with spicy Asian dishes—General Tso's chicken, moo shu pork or tikka masala. Drink now to 2028. (Vic Harradine)

The following Sella and Mosca red wine receives a $2.50 discount on the price shown below on each bottle purchased May 24 to June 20, 2021.

89 ✅
Sella and Mosca Cannoneau Di Sardegna 'Riserva'
DOC Cannoneau Di Sardegna, Italy $17.95 (425488) 13.5% alcohol
This Cannoneau, a.k.a. grenache or garnacha, showers ripe fruit throughout along with good structure, intensity and balance. Aromas of anise, red berry fruit and wood smoke presage a steady wash of racy fruit flavour with red currant and pomegranate to the fore. It's nicely balanced with a lengthy, dry finish layering on notions of dark coffee and spice. (Vic Harradine)

The following three white wines receive a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased May 24 to June 20, 2021.

92
Seven Falls Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Washington State $21.95 (360222) 14.5% alcohol
This matured 15 to 18 months in seasoned and new oak barrel, mostly American with the balance French. There are aromas of dark berry fruit, mixed spice and espresso roast galore. This is ready to drink and oozing flavour with palate-coating flavours of dried currant and black, juicy Bing cherry interwoven with mint leaf, spice and vanilla. It finishes as it started—deftly balanced, fruit-forward, good depth and plenty of charm from cork pop to last drop. (Vic Harradine)

90 ✅
Stoneleigh 'Latitude' Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (324228) $21.95 13.0% alcohol
The fruit for this gem was sourced from the 'Golden Mile' in Marlborough, it's blessed with extra warmth relayed by the stones covering the soil that allow the grapes to fully mature. Partially hand-harvested and aged six months in French oak, this delicious white offers citrus aromas along with lactic, cedar, grassy and mineral notes. Deliciously tart and crisp on the palate, this is medium bodied with flavours of grapefruit, honeydew melon and lime zest finished with beautiful minerality. Try alongside scallop ceviche for a mouth-watering pairing. (Louise Boutin)

89 ✅
Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $19.95 (316570) 13.0% alcohol
Lemon-lime citrus, grassy and pit fruit on the nose, this washes across the palate at full sail with tangy, juicy flavours of lemon drop candy, herbaceous notes and lip-smacking key lime pie flavours. Medium bodied with a silky mouth feel and consistently one of the most popular white wines in the Vintages Essentials line up. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wines

The following two red wines receive a $1.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below May 24 to June 2, 2021.

85
El Gorú Monastrell/Syrah/Petit Verdot
DOP Jumilla $13.95 (443945) 14.0% alcohol
This red blend is dominated by tart acidity, piquant spice and crunchy red fruit—currant, cranberry, pie cherry. It's medium weight with good texture and a lengthy, tart and racy finish and aftertaste underpinned by drying tannin. Aerate/decant for two hours before serving—give it a go with pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)

91 ✅
Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc
VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 (64618) 12.9% alcohol
The price-quality balance tips well in your favour here. Floral notes, graphite and hints of incense mingle with bramble berry on the nose of this medium-bodied, silky-smooth textured, delightful cab franc. It caresses the palate with a deftly balanced and immensely flavourful stream showcasing balance of tang and acidity, soft ripe tannin and delectable flavour with ripe red plum and cherry playing off good tang and a lengthy crisp and mouth-watering finish. Give this a go with comfort food off the grill—gourmet sausage, burgers, beer-can chicken. (Vic Harradine)

The following five red wines receive a $2.00 discount on each bottle purchased from the regular price shown below May 24 to June 2, 2021.
The following Catena Cabernet Sauvignon is a Vintages Essential wine always available in select LCBO stores. This 100% cabernet sauvignon is sourced across Catena's high-mountain vines located in Primera Zona, Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco.

91 ✅
Catena 'High Mountain Vines' Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (985002) 13.5% alcohol
The price-quality ratio swings wildly in your favour here. Tobacco, dark cherry/berry fruit and grilled savoury herb aromas abound. This gorgeous cab envelops the palate with a plush, full-bodied swath of ripe black plum, juicy black cherry and hints of cassis and mocha. It's complex, deftly balanced and dense with a lengthy finish enhanced by lip-smacking tang and acidity. Give this a go with grilled gourmet sausage, steak or backyard burgers. (Vic Harradine)

The following wine is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

91
Kim Crawford Pinot Noir
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $22.95 (626390) 13.0% alcohol
A portion of this elegant and easy-drinking pinot noir has been aged in French oak barrels, 10% new. This has resulted in a complex nose with aromas of musty wood, dried red fruit, fresh cherries and spice. It's medium bodied with good acidity and tannins that start gentle then slowly grow, but never become overwhelming. Red berry flavours linger nicely on the finish. It can be cellared another three years and enjoyed with a beef and mushroom stew. (Dave Isaacs)

89
Louis Jadot 'Combe Aux Jacques' Beaujolais-Villages 2008
AOC Beaujolais-Villages $18.95 (365924) 12.5% alcohol
Racy and full of verve, this opens with aromas of mixed spice, red berry fruit and red cherry. The flavours—red pie cherry, cranberry and ripe pomegranate are carried along on an assertive spine of acidity. It's light to mid weight and well textured with a racy and lip-smacking finish. This is looking to partner with tomato-based food like a grilled chicken breast smothered in tomato mushroom sauce or lasagna. This is a Vintages Essentials product, always available in select stores. (Vic Harradine)

The following Luigi Bosca Malbec was sourced from estate vineyards with vines 35-years-old at an altitude of 900 to 1100 metres above sea level located in the prestigious wine areas of Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco, Mendoza. Fruit was hand harvested with careful selection of clusters and destemming. It was cold macerated at 8 °C then fermented in stainless steel tanks at 28 °C with commercial yeasts. The wine was then transferred to French oak barrels where it matured for 12 months before a light fining and bottling. It's also a Vintages Essentials wine always found in select LCBO retail wine stores.

92
Luigi Bosca Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina (452672) $18.95 14.5% alcohol
The nose is laden with red currant and dark cherry mingling with sweet tobacco and a dusty mineral note. Rich, ripe fruit flavours coat the palate while mouth-watering freshness and pleasantly chewy tannins create balance. Dry, medium-full bodied, dark fruit and spice flavours linger on the warm, lengthy finish. This would pair well with grilled lamb or Portobello mushroom burgers. (Lisa Isabelle)

The following Tawse 'Sketches' Rosé is an eclectic blend—58% pinot noir/20% cabernet franc/9% gamay noir/8% merlot/5% cabernet sauvignon—sourced from various select vineyards, including estate, in the VQA appellation of Niagara Peninsula. This is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

90 ✅
Tawse 'Sketches' Rosé
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (172643) 12.0% alcohol
Aromas leap from the glass of this unique red blend blend—58% pinot noir/20% cabernet franc/9% gamay noir/8% merlot/5% cabernet sauvignon—with watermelon, strawberry and raspberry to the fore. It captures the palate with a surge of blood orange and ruby red grapefruit nicely juxtaposed with notions of ripe juicy black cherry. It's deftly balanced, medium bodied with silky smooth mouthfeel and plenty of tang and excellent acidity providing plenty of pizzazz on the palate and lip-smacking finish. Pour with a baguette and charcuterie board or east coast Canadian salmon pan-seared in butter. (Vic Harradine)

The following four red wines receive a $3.00 discount on each bottle purchased May 24 to June 20, 2021.

90 ✅
Marchesi de' Frescobaldi 'Tenuta di Castiglioni'
IGT Toscana, Italy $21.95 (145920) 13.0% alcohol
This red blend—cabernet sauvignon/merlot/cabernet franc/sangiovese—matured 12 months in French oak barriques and a further two months in bottle before release. Alluring aromas of red and black berry fruit mingle with mocha on the nose of this medium-bodied, nicely textured gem. It bathes the palate with a round, smooth stream of red currant and pie cherry interlaced with mixed spice and grilled savory herbs. It finishes dry, lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)

90
Zenato 'Ripasso — Superiore'
DOC Superiore Ripasso, Italy $27.95 (479766) 14.0% alcohol
Leftover grape skins and seeds (pomace) from Amarone and Recioto wine are added to the crushed and fermenting grapes of this wine, with the potential of adding colour, tannin, alcohol, texture, flavour and complexity. This is medium-full bodied, overflowing with rich flavour—sweet dried currant, spiced pie cherry, fig and mocha—sporting a well-balanced long succulent aftertaste. This has the oomph and structure to pair well with grilled steak or the heartiest of stews, like osso buco. It's a step up in price and quality; you might give it a try. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers and stay safe, Louise, Lisa, Dave, Vic