January 12, 2019 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights Include:

• Exceptional-value wine  – 22 wines in this newsletter that are available in the LCBO now, meet strict quality-price guidelines. The wines range from $13.95 to $18.95 and are found throughout the newsletter identified via the value checkmark above. Strict guidelines? Click here.
• Louise loves – 2014 Zaha ‘El Corte - Toko Vineyard’ earned 89 points at $24.95 found under Argentina: Red Wine; 2015 Bleasdale Mulberry Tree Cabernet Sauvignon earned 90 points @ $19.95 found under Australia: Red Wine and, of course, all her exceptional-value wine reviews.
• Lisa likes – 2017 Domaine Millet Chablis earned 89 points @ $27.95 found under France: White Wine and, of course, all her exceptional-value wine reviews.
• Dave’s delights – 2017 Jost Vineyards Tidal Bay earned 89 points @ $20.95 found under Nova Scotia: White Wine: 2016 Tom Gore Chardonnay earned 90 points @ $19.95 found under California: White Wine and, of course, all his exceptional-value wine reviews.

January 05, 2018 Vintages Release

Greece: Specialty Wine

• Retsina—a style of wine that gets part of its flavour from exposure to tree resins—has been made for thousands of years. Folklore says the style was discovered by chance, when pine resin was used to help seal the porous amphorae used to ferment and store wine. This retsina is produced from roditis grapes using modern, white-wine vinification techniques.

87 
Kechris ‘Kechribari’ Retsina (500 mL)
Greece $7.95 (581942) 11.5% alcohol
This is fermented in stainless steel tanks with high-quality resin infused during the fermentation process. The result is a wine that‘s light golden-yellow in appearance with a nose of pine, eucalyptus and roses. It’s medium-to-full bodied on the palate with flavours of lemon and pine that linger through the finish. This is well paired with olives and anchovies. (Dave Isaacs)

Fortified Wine: Portugal

89  
Delaforce ‘Fine Ruby’ Port Non-Vintage
DOP Douro, Portugal $14.95 (164608) 20.0% alcohol
This wine exhibits all the freshness one would expect from a Ruby Port, and it’s at an attractive price. Look for cherry, raisin, dried prune and date aromas on the nose and smooth, full bodied sensations on the palate. Flavours of cough-drop cherry and hot chocolate abound. Ruby Ports are generally made for immediate consumption and pour nicely with rich chocolate desserts such as flourless chocolate cake. (Dave Isaacs)

Fortified Wine: Greece

89
Commandaria St. Nicholas 2013 

Cyprus $25.95 (692491) 15.0% alcohol

This was fashioned from indigenous grape varieties on the Greece-controlled southern portion of the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. It’s a lovely, amber-hued, sweet wine with a mélange of flavours including candied and honeyed fruit, marmalade and sweet caramel. It's creamy in texture with warm alcohol on the sweet lingering finish. Pair this with crème caramel or a fig bar or simply sip and savour on its own; either way, it’s delicious. (Vic Harradine) 

Nova Scotia: White wine

• Tidal Bay is the official wine appellation that encompasses the whole of Nova Scotia. For a wine to obtain the Tidal Bay designation it must be made from 100% Nova Scotia grown grapes following strict standards. No more than 11% alcohol is allowed. Tidal Bay wines are approved every year by a blind tasting panel of judges.

89
Jost Vineyards Tidal Bay 2017
Nova Scotia $20.95 (431783) 11.0% alcohol
This Tidal Bay wine from Jost Vineyards is a blend of 73.5% l’acadie blanc, 15% ortega and 11.5% muscat. It’s pale gold, almost clear in appearance, with a lovely nose of lemon, grapefruit, green apples and just a hint of rosewater. It’s medium bodied on the palate with good balance of acidity. The flavours of white grapefruit linger pleasantly in the finish punctuated by a tangy bite. This will be a delightful wine to have alongside a plate of sautéed sea scallops. (Dave Isaacs)

Ontario: White Wine

87 
The Foreign Affair ‘Enchanted’ 2017
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (389767) 11.9% alcohol
The Foreign Affair winery was founded with the idea of creating wines using the appassimento process, in which harvested grapes, usually red, are dried on racks for up to six months before being crushed and fermented. This blends 69% sauvignon blanc and 31% riesling in a “ripasso” style: freshly harvested sauvignon blanc grapes have been crushed and mixed with the leftover skins of their appassimento sauvignon blanc. The result is a wine that’s bright golden yellow in appearance, a nose of grapefruit, clover and tinned pears aroma. This is medium bodied on the palate with flavours of gala apples and lemon. The finish is crisp and refreshing. Try this along with baked pork chops with aside of apple sauce. (Dave Isaacs)

Ontario: Red Wine

88 
Vieni ‘Red Trillium’ Ripasso 2013
VQA Vinemount Ridge $16.95 (495523) 13.5% alcohol
This “ripasso” style wine is a blend of pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon made by ‘re-passing’ or pouring wine over freshly dried grape skins of their appassimento wine in order to produce a second fermentation. The wine is brick red in appearance, with a slight brown cast that shows its age. There are aromas of dried cherries and raisins with a juicy smoothness and a nice balance of acidity. Firm tannins are present, but very approachable. The blackberry and smoky flavours carry nicely through a lingering finish. This is a nice match for slow-cooked pulled pork with spicy barbecue sauce. (Dave Isaacs)

California: White Wine

89
Ironstone Chardonnay 2017
Lodi $17.95 (355776) 13.5% alcohol
Light gold, almost clear in appearance, this good-value wine has a big nose made up of a medley of clover, pear and mineral aromas. It has a creamy mouth-feel with medium-to-full body and flavours of pear and tropical fruits. The finish lingers nicely on the tongue with flavour reminiscent of cantaloupe. This will develop nicely in the cellar through 2020 and can be enjoyed now and then with a plate of seafood alfredo. (Dave Isaacs)

90
Tom Gore Chardonnay 2016
California $19.95 (458810) 13.5% alcohol
Made from grapes sourced from vineyards in the Central Coast and North Coast regions of California, this wine is 98% chardonnay with a dash of sauvignon blanc. There are up front aromas of pear and honeysuckle. Barrel fermentation, used for 60% of the wine, provides underlying aromas of butter and oak. The wine is medium-bodied on the palate with a delightful balance of acidity and flavours of apple and pear. A long mouth-watering finish simply begs you to take another sip. Enjoy with a big serving of apple stuffed pork tenderloin. There’s very good value here. (Dave Isaacs)

California: Red Wine

90
J. Lohr Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Paso Robles $14.95 375 mL (313817) 13.5% alcohol
This half bottle is 80% cabernet sauvignon, 7% petite sirah, 6% petit verdot, 3% merlot and 4% ‘other red’ varieties. It’s dark cherry, almost opaque, with a nose that exhibits traces of dry moss, smoke and blackberries. It feels juicy on the palate with a medium-to-full body and strong, but approachable tannins. The excellent acidity enhances flavours of cherry, raspberry and vanilla persisting through a tart and tannic finish. This wine will keep in the cellar for another three years and can also be enjoyed today with medium-rare steak and mushrooms. (Dave Isaacs)

90
Joel Gott Zinfandel 2016
California $24.95 (244139) 14.4% alcohol
The majority of grapes in this 100% zinfandel were sourced from decades-old, head-trained vines in the Amador and Lodi regions. The nose may greet you with a slight whiff of sulphur: it quickly dissipates leaving pleasant notes of smoked meat, cloves and nutmeg aromas. It’s full bodied and smooth on the palate with good acidity and finely integrated tannins. Flavours of cherry and vanilla linger in a long and tart finish. Hang on until summer and wow your friends by serving this at a barbecue alongside slow-grilled ribs slathered with spicy hot sauce. (Dave Isaacs)

88
Simi Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Alexander Valley $22.95 (25221) 13.5% alcohol
This is dark, reddish brick in appearance. There are prominent aromas of dried cherries as well as hints of smoke and vanilla—courtesy the 14 months spent ageing in small French and American oak barrels. It’s light-to-medium bodied with a refreshing juiciness. The tannins are still holding on strong, sitting atop flavours of tart raspberry and blueberry. This is a good candidate to lay in the cellar for another 3 years, and then enjoy with grilled, medium-rare steak. (Dave Isaacs)

Washington State: White Wine

• The following 2015 Hogue Chardonnay is absolutely delicious, dishing up a price-quality proposition you just can’t ignore.

90

Hogue Chardonnay 2015

Columbia Valley $15.95 (402172) 13.5% alcohol

The striking golden-hued liquid billows aromas of ripe apple, lemony citrus and baking spice. It’s medium-bodied and nicely textured enveloping the palate with flavourful fruit—apple, pear and yellow plum—framed by tangy, lip-smacking acidity on the back palate and finish adding a wisp of caramel on the aftertaste. Roast chicken, pork or veal cutlets all pair nicely. Stock up at this price. (Vic Harradine)

Argentina: Red Wine

87
Susana Balbo ‘Crios’ Malbec 2017
Mendoza $15.95 (162529) 14.0% alcohol
Crios is Susana Balbo’s ‘young wines’ line. This 100% malbec is a ripe fruit bomb on the nose—raspberry, blackberry and blueberry aromas with a suggestion of violets introduce a round and silky wash of juicy berries and tart black plum skin on the palate. This is medium bodied with young tannin and tangy flavours trailing into the fruit-forward finish. It’s a good companion to gourmet burgers or red-sauce pasta. (Louise Boutin)

89
Zaha ‘El Corte - Toko Vineyard’ 2014
Parade Altamira, Mendoza $24.95 (629972) 13.5% alcohol
This blend—80% malbec/20% cabernet sauvignon--was fermented together to add interest to the nose of this aromatic red with its alluring aromas of fresh dark plum jam, blackberry, blueberry, floral and vanilla. It’s medium bodied with firm tannin and is quite tangy on the palate with tart cherry and raspberry complemented with cassis and baking spice 0n the fruity dry spicy finish. This will evolve further with additional cellaring. Aerate /decant a couple of hours and enjoy with a charcuterie board including fine mustards. (Louise Boutin)

90
Graffigna ‘Vesparo’ Malbec 2017
Calchaqui Valley, Salta $18.95 (629790) 14.0% alcohol
Graffigna winery are known to produce bold wines and this is no exception. It’s fleshy and concentrated both on the nose and palate. Aromas of blueberry/raspberry compote, dark cherry, dry savoury herb and black pepper are replayed on the palate in a velvety textured flavourful stream of tangy juicy fruits. Full of character with a fruity and spicy finish, this is the perfect mate to cherry-glazed magret de canard. Aerate/decant two hours before serving. (Louise Boutin)

Chile: White Wine

88
Montes ‘Limited Selection’ Sauvignon Blanc 2017
DO Léyna Valley $14.95 (032060) 13.5% alcohol
Classic new-world sauvignon blanc aromas—lime zest, green apple, sweet grass with an extra layer of pineapple and honeydew melon—fill the air. A juicy flow of white grape, ripe kiwi and pink grapefruit coat the palate followed by a kick of zesty lime waking-up the laziest taste bud. This excellent-value, medium-bodied white offers and interesting dry, zesty finish with a clover-honey note in the aftertaste. Pour with goat cheese crostini or pesto pasta. (Louise Boutin)

Chile: Red Wine

88
Viña Tarapacá ‘Gran Reserva’ Carmenère 2015

Maipo Valley $17.75 (57513) 14.5% alcohol

This is dense, fruit-laden and ready to drink. Black currant, dark Bing cherry and black plum flavours coat the palate adorned with excellent tangy acidity and savoury herbs. Espresso roast, bittersweet chocolate and replays of palate flavours dominate the lingering, balanced finish and aftertaste. Pour with grilled hangar steak and oven-roasted fries. (Vic Harradine)

Australia: Red Wine

90
Bleasdale ‘Mulberry Tree’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Langhorne Creek, South Australia $19.95 (661892) 14.0% alcohol
This 100% cabernet sauvignon saw 12 months of maturation in French oak barrels, 15% new. It shows a pungent nose of peppery spice and green bell pepper shielding aromas of dark cherry, cassis, bitter chocolate, vanilla and wood notes. It greets the palate with a combination of juicy black and red cherry and sweet blackberry before chalky tannins make their presence known. There’s a delicious medium-length, fresh peppery finish. While perfectly enjoyable now, it will drink well until 2025. Pour alongside a juicy rack of lamb sprinkled with fresh mint. (Louise Boutin)

88
Kilikanoon ‘The Lackey’ Shiraz 2017
Australia $17.95 (005199) 14.5% alcohol
This smooth full-bodied 100% shiraz from Kilikanoon is a perennial favourite. It opens up with a funky nose that quickly dissipates with a vigorous swirl to leave the stage to dark cherry, blackberry, toasty oak and tobacco aromas. It flows easily on the palate with melted tannin carrying flavours of sweet dark cherry, blackberry jam, vanilla and a hint of eucalyptus. This is a crowd pleaser and will shine with baby, back ribs generously mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Louise Boutin)

88
Kreglinger ‘Norfolk Rise Vineyard’ Shiraz 2017
South Australia $14.95 (632117) 14.0% alcohol
This is a recent addition to the Kreglinger portfolio better known for its fine sparkling wine produced in Tasmania. This is deep ruby all the way through with mostly black pepper and green bell pepper on the nose shadowing ripe black fruit and vanilla aromas. Matured 14 months in French oak barriques, it’s supple on the palate with sweet ripe fruit—dark cherry, blackberry and plum—balanced by sharp, tart red cherry and red currant flavours. This is an easy-to-drink, medium-bodied red with a sweet cherry and vanilla finish. Try with burgers topped with blue-veined cheese and a side of fries. (Louise Boutin)

• A warm start to spring and early bud break plus warm temperatures during growing season provided an early harvest of organoleptically ripe fruit and smooth, polished tannin for the following 2016 Jim Barry ‘The Barry Bros’ Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon. Fermented in stainless steel tank for seven to ten days, it was pumped over twice daily with rack and return once a day then pressed. It underwent malolactic conversion in tank then racked to French oak for maturation before bottling.

91  

Jim Barry ‘The Barry Bros’ Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon 2016

Clare Valley, Australia $19.95 (632059) 14.0% alcohol

This value-packed, 60% shiraz/40% cabernet sauvignon blend hails from Clare Valley, a small, über-premium, cool-climate region in Australia. Lively, lifted aromas of red berry fruit, piquant spice, and floral notes abound on the nose of this medium-weight, nicely textured red. It rolls over the palate showcasing flavours of spice-infused, crunchy red fruit—currant, cherry and plum—robed in mouth-watering tang and supported by ripe, polished tannin. The finish is lengthy and balanced with ripe, juicy mulberry flavour and is lip-smacking good. It’s drinking well now, enhanced by a brief two-hour aeration/decant, and pairs well with grilled gourmet sausage, rich stew, steak and burgers. (Vic Harradine)

New Zealand: White Wine

90
Waimea ‘Spinyback’ Sauvignon Blanc 2017
Nelson, South Island $16.95 (694737) 13.0% alcohol
Think all NZ sauvignon blanc tastes similar? Try this one. It’s got a beautiful nose—freshly cut grass, lime zest, golden kiwi and white flower notes. It flows over the palate with elegance and offers delicious bright flavours of lime juice, pink grapefruit, white grape and balancing minerality. This vibrant medium-bodied white is delicious with scallop ceviche or fried calamari. (Louise Boutin)

87
Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2017
Marlborough, South Island $9.95 375ml (160085) 12.0% alcohol
This crowd favourite also comes in a half-size bottle with its staple straight-forward citrus and sweet grass aromas. Lime zest and white grape lead the flavour trail followed with freshly cut celery, fennel and mineral notes on the tangy finish and aftertaste. This medium-light bodied new-world style sauvignon blanc is easy to sip on its own or pairs well with salty appetizers. (Louise Boutin)

France: White Wine

87
Château Tertre de Launay 2017
AOC Entre-Deux-Mers $15.95 (633909) 12.0% alcohol
Aromas of citrus, stone fruit and tropical notes mingle with notions of spring greens and acacia flower on the nose of this white Bordeaux blend—sémillon, sauvignon blanc and muscadelle. Lemon, peach and star fruit flavours dominate the fresh-tasting palate. Dry and medium-light bodied, it finishes with a medium-length citrus tang. Enjoy this versatile white with sautéed shrimp. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Domaine Millet Chablis 2017
AOC Chablis $27.95 (447193) 12.5 % alcohol
Appealing notes of yellow apple, pear and lemon, joined by hints of orchard blossoms and a slight mineral undertone, open this 100% chardonnay. Dry, medium-light bodied and nicely balanced with mouth-watering acidity, ripe orchard fruit flavours wash over the palate and persist into the medium-long, flavourful finish. Serve this easy-drinking gem with seafood appetizers. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Domaine Jacky Marteau Sauvignon Touraine 2017
AOC Touraine $15.95 (745349) 13.5 % alcohol
This sauvignon blanc from the Loire Valley offers an intense nose of apple, pear, gooseberry and asparagus aromas with a subdued mineral note. Dry, medium bodied with a round mouth-feel, vivid apple and peach flavours layered with fresh herbs last into the juicy, mid-length finish. Pour alongside a mesclun and goat cheese salad. (Lisa Isabelle)

France: Red Wine

87
Château Les Petits Arnauds ‘Tradition’ 2015
AOC Côtes de Bordeaux - Blaye $16.95 (630103) 14.0% alcohol
This merlot-dominant blend from the right bank of Bordeaux offers aromas of red and dark cherries and plums underscored with hints of graphite, coffee, baking spice and green pepper. Ripe red fruit flavours and spice notes bathe the palate. Dry, medium-full bodied with firm tannins, an herbal note appears on the medium long, drying finish. Decant before serving with rare-grilled beef. (Lisa Isabelle)

90
M. Chapoutier ‘Les Vignes de Bila-Haut’ Côtes du Roussillon-Villages 2017
AOC Côtes du Roussillon-Villages $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)

88
Domaine Autrand Côtes du Rhone 2016
AOC Côtes du Rhone $14.95 (380675) 14.0 % alcohol
Pronounced aromas of red fruit—cherry, plum and red currant—adorned with spice, thyme and earth introduce this 80% grenache/20% syrah southern-Rhône blend. Red fruit flavours are joined with baking spice and dried herbs on the palate. Dry, medium bodied with well-integrated alcohol, juicy plum and spice flavours extend into the mid-length finish. Pour this budget-priced red with a week-night beef stew. (Lisa Isabelle)

88
Château Bellevue La Forêt 2016
AOP Fronton $14.95 (345134) 13.0% alcohol
Negrette, a principle grape of this region, joins syrah, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc in this interesting offering from southwestern France. Aromas of cherry compote, plum jam and black currant are layered with earth and black pepper on the nose. Dry, medium bodied with well-defined tannins, the palate offers more nuanced flavours led by tart cherry and red plum with hints of green pepper and spice. Decant before serving with herb-encrusted lamb chops. (Lisa Isabelle)

• Fruit for the following 2015 Vaucher Père et Fils Fleurie was sourced from 100% gamay in Fleurie—one of the 10 Beaujolais Crus—hand-harvested and underwent whole-bunch, carbonic maceration then maturation in stainless steel tank, no oak.

88  

Vaucher Père et Fils Fleurie 2015

AOC Fleurie, France $16.95 (534339) 12.5% alcohol

With aromas of floral notes and whiffs of berry fruit on the nose, this rolls over the palate with red currant and passionfruit flavours interwoven with ripe juicy plum, peppery spice and hints of black currant jam. It’s medium weight with good mouthfeel and plenty of oomph. There’s very good value, excellent tang and a lengthy, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Pour with baked, stuffed green peppers or charcuterie board. (Vic Harradine)

90
Château Hauchat 2015

AOC Fronsac $17.95 (123489) 14.0% alcohol

This value-packed, merlot-dominant red coats the palate with ripe fruit, complexity, good structure and allure. Aromas of incense, toasty notes and dark berry fruit abound. It rolls over the palate with waves of black currant, piquant spice and mocha. It’s medium-weight with an easy-drinking personality, creamy smooth and fruity on the palate and finish garnished with mixed spice and savory herbs. This is enhanced with a two-hour aeration decant. (Vic Harradine)

Austria: White Wine

90  
Weingut Rabl ‘Langenlois’ Grüner Veltliner 2017
DAC Kamptal $16.95 (377457) 12.5% alcohol
Dave Isaacs and I both loved this. It’s from a respected, well-known Austrian producer and it displays typical varietal aromas—yellow apple, pear, honeysuckle and mineral notes. It’s light and round on the palate with orchard fruit flavours, lemon custard and mild almond bitterness. The lower acidity level magnifies the sweet-fruity flavours in this otherwise medium-bodied, dry Grüner. Give it a go with pad Thai. (Louise Boutin)

Italy: White Wine

88
San Raffaele Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie 2017

DOC Pinot Grigio della Venezie $14.95 (204768) 14.5% alcohol

This is exceptional value from this newly minted DOC (2017). It was sourced from organically-grown grapes in northeastern Italy. Aromas of red apple, pear, peach and lemon dominate the nose. This is dry and medium-light bodied with a fruit-driven wash bathing the palate in flavours of juicy nectarine, blood orange and lemon zest persisting through the finish of refreshing citrus tang. Enjoy as an aperitif or paired with skillet-seared shrimp and orzo. (Lisa Isabelle)

Italy: Red Wine

89
La Pieve Barolo 2014
DOCG Barolo $39.95 (213132) 14.5 % alcohol
Pale garnet in colour, an abundance of aromas waft from the glass—cherry, red currant and prune interweaving with tobacco, smoke, floral and mineral notes. The subtle palate offers flavours of plum and dried cherries with delicate floral and smoky notes. It’s dry, medium-full bodied, well-structured and finishes with a pleasing mid-length tang. Enjoy with braised veal stew. (Lisa Isabelle)

90
Michele Chiarlo ‘Le Orme - 16 Months’ Barbera D’Asti 2016
DOCG Barbera D’Asti $15.95 (265413) 13.5 % alcohol
There’s exceptional value in this food-friendly wine from northwest Italy. Ripe red fruit aromas interweave with violet, dry leaves and a mineral note on the nose and these don’t fade on the pleasing, concentrated palate. Dry, medium bodied with soft tannins and mouth-watering acidity, it finishes with an extended, tasty fruit-driven finish with notes of earth and smoke pleasantly appearing on the aftertaste. Serve with tomato-based pastas and pizzas. (Lisa Isabelle)

86
Varvaglione ‘12 E Mezzo’ Primitivo Del Salento 2016
IGP Primitivo del Salento $14.95 (395053) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of red cherry, dark plum and raspberry jam are garnished with sweet vanilla, mocha and spice notes on the nose of this primitivo from southern Italy. It saw approximately 3 months in American oak barrel following temperature-controlled maceration. Medium bodied, hinting at off-dry with supple tannins, the palate oozes with cherry jam, vanilla bean and baking spice flavours enduring through the mid-length, fruity finish. Serve with sticky barbecued ribs. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Geografico Ferrante ‘Governo All’Uso’ 2016
IGT Toscana $14.95 (575720) 13.0 % alcohol
‘Governo all’uso’ is a winemaking technique whereby a small amount of partially dried grapes are added to the wine to start a second fermentation. Intriguing aromas of red fruit paired with fig, chilli pepper and vanilla open this dry, medium-full bodied red. The supple palate features concentrated red cherry and plum flavours with notions of sweet spice and vanilla. An uplifting menthol note appears on the lengthy, mouth-watering finish. Pair this easy-drinking red with a spicy chilli con carne. (Lisa Isabelle)

87
Le Calvane ‘Quercione’ Chianti 2015
DOCG Chianti $14.95 (454934) 13.5 % alcohol
Fragrant notes of red fruit adorned with spice, floral and mineral notes appear on the nose. Dry, medium-full bodied and well-structured, the palate tempts with sweet cherry, spice and steeped tea flavours lasting into the mid-length, mineral-laden finish. Serve this exceptionally well-priced Chianti with spaghetti Bolognese. (Lisa Isabelle)

88
Cecchi ‘La Campana’ Montefalco Rosso 2014
DOC Montefalco Rosso $14.95 (577726) 13.0 % alcohol
Aromas of sour cherry and dark fruit with hints of coffee, spice and red licorice open this harmonious blend of 70% sangiovese/15% sagrantino/15% merlot from Umbria. It matured 14 months in barrique and a further 4 months in bottle before release. It’s dry and medium bodied with crunchy red fruit, notes of baking spice and an iron note engulfing the palate then persisting through the mid-length, lively finish. Serve with a cheese and charcuterie platter. (Lisa Isabelle)

88
Casa Vinicola Natale Verga ‘I Balzi’ Rosso 2016
IGT Veneto $15.95 (477075) 14.0 % alcohol
Opaque ruby in colour, aromas of dark plum, blackberry and blueberry jam are joined by espresso bean and cinnamon on the nose of this corvina/merlot blend. Dry, full bodied with discernible tannin, succulent waves of sweet, ripe dark fruit flow over the palate. On the lingering finish there’s a hit of warm, spiced fruit. Pair this well-priced red with richly braised meats. (Lisa Isabelle)

89
Cecchi ‘Storia Di Famiglia’ Chianti Classico 2015

DOCG Chianti Classico $17.95 (540922) 13.5% alcohol

This very good-value, red blend—90% sangiovese, 5% colorino, 5% cabernet sauvignon—offers up an aromatic nose of peppery spice, wisps of herbs and red berry fruit. The palate’s treated to a racy, laser-like line of spirited tang from red currant, cranberry and pie cherry flavours decorated with baking spice and espresso roast. It’s medium bodied with good mouthfeel and ripe tannin for structure. The finish and aftertaste linger. Aerate/decant a couple of hours before service. (Vic Harradine)

Portugal: White Wine

88
Curvos Loureiro 2017 

DOC Vinho Verde, Portugal $12.95 (471284)

Lifted aromas of floral notes, melon and citrus open this lively, fully flavoured gem. It dazzles the palate with a burst of lemon curd and racy grapefruit tang. It’s light on its feet with a mouth-watering, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Give this a go with pan-seared or grilled seafood, sushi or ceviche. (Vic Harradine)

Portugal: Red Wine

88 
Barco Negro 2015
DOC Douro $13.95 (452979) 13.5% alcohol
This exceptionally well-priced crowd pleaser is dark red in colour with purple highlights around the rim. It has an enticing nose of dried red fruit, smoke and spice aromas. It’s full-bodied and smooth with tannins that start easy and strengthen on the finish. There are palate flavours of dried cherry with hints of black pepper and enough tannins to sustain this for a few years in the cellar, but it’s really meant to be enjoyed today. Pour at a party along with hors d'oeuvres of beef satay after a two-hour aeration/decant. (Dave Isaacs)

Spain: Red Wine

88
Solà Fred 2017
DO Montsant $17.00 (636258) 14.0% alcohol
This unoaked, stainless-steel fermented carignan bursts with fruit aromas—fresh berry, plum compote and a whiff of kirsch liqueur. Sweet fruit flavours—despite low residual sugar—is balanced by tartness on the palate with delicious blueberry, raspberry and cranberry flavours complemented with a hint of cinnamon on the finish and aftertaste. This is medium-bodied with nicely integrated alcohol and young tannin. It’s a great partner to roasted turkey with cranberry sauce. (Louise Boutin)

90
Tarima Monastrell 2016
DO Alicante $14.95 (310151) 14.5% alcohol
There’s unbelievable value in this traditional 100% monastrell, aka mourvèdre. It’s crafted with minimal intervention using indigenous yeasts and aged six months in one year-old French oak barrels. Camp fire is the leading aroma followed with dark cherry, blackberry, freshly cracked black peppercorn and earthy notes. The palate’s treated to an ample and cool stream of ripe blackberry, black and red plum with a hint of thyme and piquant pepper persisting in a long and delicious finish. This is beautifully bold and generous with excellent tannin structure and well-integrated alcohol. Aerate/decant two hours and pour alongside your favourite cut of grilled beef or lamb. (Louise Boutin)

90
Heredad de Urueña ‘Santo Terroir' Tempranillo 2012
Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León $16.95 (629832) 14.5% alcohol
A complex nose of dried fruit, cedar, sun-dried tomato, licorice and gamy notes—along with a garnet rim—suggest maturity in this 100% tempranillo. It flows on the palate with rich, dried fruit flavours—prune, fig and dry cherry—wrapped in noticeable fine-grained tannin. It evolves into a vanilla and balsamic-reduction flavoured beauty on the medium-long finish. This brawny, medium-full bodied red is a hit with slow-cooked meat in a rich tomato sauce. Aerate/decant for an hour or two and pour now to 2022. (Louise Boutin)

Upstream in winecurrent

Vintages Release date: January 19, 2019

• The following 2015 Henry of Pelham ‘Family Tree’ Red was 100% barrel matured for 17 months in 65% French and 35% American oak.

89
Henry of Pelham ‘Family Tree’ Red 2015
VQA Ontario $18.95 (247882) 13.5% alcohol
This very good-value, racy red blend—40% merlot/35% syrah/15% cabernet franc/5% cabernet sauvignon/5% baco noir—leaps from the glass with aromas of rich dark cherry/berry fruit, peppery spice, smoke and tarry notes. It blankets the palate with lip-smacking tang carried on fruit flavours of racy pie cherry and passion fruit decorated with espresso roast and black licorice. It’s medium bodied with good mouthfeel and a lasting dry, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste laced with dark bittersweet chocolate. Pour with meat lasagna or spaghetti Bolognese. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release date: February 2, 2019

• The following 2017 Château Lamothe de Haux Blanc is a white blend of 40% sémillon/40% sauvignon blanc/20% muscadelle fashioned by 4th generation owners and winemakers. The foundations of Château Lamothe date back to the 16th century.

90
Château Lamothe de Haux Blanc 2017
AOC Bordeaux, France $16.95 (635698) 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of honey, floral and grassy notes dominate the nose on this medium bodied, well-textured, value-packed gem. It spreads over the palate in balanced waves with flavours of pineapple, yellow peach and ripe apple to the fore. It finishes clean and crisp riding on a wash of lemon curd with a lip-smacking aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared fish, grilled or skillet-seared pork chops or lemon chicken. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release date: February 16, 2019

• The following 2017 Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Riesling was sustainably grown from 100% estate, Weiss 21b riesling clone.

90
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Riesling 2017
VQA Short Hills Bench $19.95 (557165) 11.5% alcohol
Aromas of lime zest and notions of petrol dominate the nose of this value-packed, oily textured, mouth-watering riesling. It races over the palate with flavours of lime cordial, lemon pie filling adorned with peach skin. This is clean, crisp and refreshing with a finish and aftertaste filled with racy, mouth-watering oomph and pizzazz. Pour with salads tossed with verjus or your favourite fish or seafood under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release date: March 2, 2019

• The following 2015 Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Cabernet/Merlot is a red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot sourced from several of the oldest sections of estate vine. Low yields were 2 to 3 tonnes/acre, fermented in stainless steel with extended maceration then matured 18 months in French and American oak barrel, 40% new.

92
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Cabernet/Merlot 2015

VQA Short Hills Bench $24.95 (395855) 13.5% alcohol
Lifted, lively aromas of cedar, piquant spice and juicy black plum introduce a spirited wash of pie cherry and passionfruit juxtaposed nicely with cassis and dark berry fruit adorned with sharp spice, dark bittersweet chocolate and wisps of ripe, fine-grained tannin. This is structured and balanced with purity of fruit and lots of pizzazz. It’s medium-plus weight with good mouthfeel and a long finish showcasing palate replays. Aerate/decant for a couple of hours pouring with a thick cut of prime beef grilled rare to medium rare. (Vic Harradine)

89
Baron de Hoen Gewürztraminer ‘Réserve’ 2017

AOC Alsace, France $16.95 (377721) 12.5% alcohol
Rosewater, floral notes and exotic spice aromas leap from the glass. Off-dry, sensuously textured mouthfuls of apricot, spice-laden yellow plum, red licorice and lemon pie filling coat the palate persisting through the lingering and luxurious finish and aftertaste. Give it a go with spicy Asian cuisine like tandoori chicken or spicy vegan potato curry, or baked ham dotted with cloves and basted with maple syrup. (Vic Harradine)

New in the LCBO

• The following 2018 Sacred Hill Sauvignon Blanc has a splashy new label on the bottle as well as exceptional-value wine inside.

90
Sacred Hill Sauvignon Blanc 2018
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $18.95 (489112) 12.5% alcohol
Lifted, lively aromas of gooseberry, piquant spice and hints of flinty/mineral notes abound on the nose of this lovely, well-balanced, rich-in-flavour Kiwi. It captures the palate with a dry, tingling stream of medium-weight, nicely textured lime zest, minerality, yellow plum and peach. It finishes in a crescendo of racy tang and ripe pit fruit forming a lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Remove from refrigeration 15 minutes before serving. Pour with chèvre crumbled over olive-oil dressed arugula or skillet-seared white fish with a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

New in Private Order

• Order the following wine by the case for home, restaurant or office delivery. Free delivery in the GTA or delivered to your local LCBO for pick up. Order from VIP Wine and Spirits via email to Dave Coutts This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

• The following 2017 SonVida Malbec was sourced from 100%, hand-picked, single-vineyard, high-altitude Malbec and matured 12 months in French and American oak. This winery has developed a burgeoning cult following by delivering exceptional quality at a favourable price.

94
SonVida Malbec 2017
Paraje Altamira, Mendoza Argentina $24.95 (458240) 14.0% alcohol
Lifted alluring aromas of tarry notes and wood smoke mingle with dark juicy plum on the nose. A medium-plus bodied surge of spice-laden ambrosia blankets the palate carried on a creamy-smooth bed of flavour with dark cherry and black currant framed by lip-smacking tang and acidity, and decorated by dark bittersweet chocolate and cassis. Absolutely delicious now, this will be enhanced over the short and medium term by a bit more time in bottle. There’s soft ripe tannin showing on the lingering, luscious and balanced finish; aerate/decant for a couple of hours. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, Lisa, Louise, Dave, Vic