January 8, 2015 Newsletter

Julie Stock is an accomplished, respected, colleague and wine writer/reviewer whose reviews appear in this publication of winecurrent for the first time. We’re pleased and proud she consented to contribute with Susan while Vic takes a break in the sunny south. You can read Julie’s bio here and her tasting reviews below.

The California Wine Fair dates are always worth recording—it visits eight centres across Canada from coast to coast. Highly regarded as ‘the’ wine show of the year that one does not miss; it’s often sold out. Purchase tickets @ www.calwine.ca on January 15, 2015 and have questions answered now via the California Wine Fair Hotline (905) 336-8932 or 1-800-558-CORK (2675).

There are NO tickets sold at the door! 

The California Wine Fair Tour moves across Canada on the following dates:

• Tuesday, April 7th: Québec City, Espace Dalhousie
• Wednesday, April 8th: Montreal, Québec, Le Centre Sheraton
• Friday, April 10th: Ottawa, Ontario, Westin Ottawa
• Monday, April 13th: Toronto, Ontario, The Fairmont Royal York
• Wednesday, April 15th: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Halifax Convention Centre
• Wednesday, April 22nd: Edmonton, Alberta, Shaw Conference Centre
• Friday, April 24th: Calgary, Alberta, BMO Centre, Calgary Stampede, Palomino Room
• Monday, April 27th: Vancouver, British Columbia, Vancouver Convention Centre

Newsletter highlights include:

• Exceptional value wine    – the folks from Vintages certainly delivered on their ‘Smart Buys’ release with a fabulous 7 of 35 wines reviewed meeting the strict quality-price guidelines. In fact, there are 11 of exceptional value found throughout this newsletter of 72 wines; all are identified by the   icon while many more just missed by only one dollar. What strict guidelines?  Click here.
• 5-star Wine – two wines rang the 5-star bell – Tawse ‘Quarry Road Vineyard’ Gewürztraminer 2013 @ $24.95 under new in Ontario Wineries and; Gratiot Champagne ‘Maison’ Non-vintage @ $43.95 under new in Private Order.

Access the LCBO store nearest you with stock of any wine with an LCBO product number by clicking on the number shown in brackets in wine reviews then clicking on select stores and entering your postal code. The number of bottles available in each store near you is displayed. For Vintages Release wines, stock should be displayed the Friday before a Saturday release, some stores post earlier. For LCBO wines, it should closely reflect stock in stores, updated every 24 hours. Always best to phone first.

Using the winery or agent name link in the New in Ontario Wineries, Consignment Wine or Private Order wine sections, allows you to order for home, office or restaurant delivery subject to each winery’s, or agent’s, shipping procedure.

Feature: Smart Buys

Lamadrid Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Mendoza, Argentina $15.95 (234518) 14% alcohol
This is an enchanting deep ruby red with aromas of black currant, something vegetal and almost minty. It’s medium to full bodied, very smooth with delicious flavours, lots of dark ripe berries and soft tannin entwined with woodsy notes. A little tobacco mingles with the berries in the long finish. A rare roast beef with grilled veggies would make a fine dinner partner. (Julie Stock)

Heartland Stickleback Red 2012
South Australia $13.95 (116574) 14.5% alcohol
Another amazing value wine—sometime I have to re-check to make sure I did not mistake the price tag. It’s a delicious deep red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Dolcetto grapes. The latter offers a bit of sweet and bitter; it’s a wonderful varietal that contributes with the right partners. Dark ripe berries, white and black pepper and lots of Christmas spices sweep the palate with a dry, grippy, tannic finish. A great wine for a BBQ with a spit roast of pork or lamb. (Julie Stock)

Ventisquero Queulat ‘Gran Reserva Single Vineyard’ Carmenère 2011
Maipo Valley, Chile $15.95 (243386) 14.0% alcohol
This bold, full-bodied red combines aromas and flavours of ripe black berry and sweetly spiced vanilla with earthy herbal, vegetal notes. Firm yet subtle structure complements the lashings of ripe fruit while the well-integrated oak indicates a deftly balanced hand in the cellar. Enjoy this wine with a hearty roast vegetable or meat stew. (Susan Desjardins)

Château Hauchat 2011
AOC Fronsac, France $15.95 (123489) 13.0% alcohol
Year after year, the Saby family delivers complex, well-paced wine of great value. This vintage hints at the earth, with notes of cedar and dried herbs, while the lovely ripe fruit is garnished with fine notes of spice. Dry, medium-full bodied, the well-defined structure provides a fine frame for the tasty plum and black cherry fruit with notes of spice, herbs and a dash of white pepper lingering on through the extended dry finish. Drinking well now, you’ll enjoy this wine with roast beef. (Susan Desjardins)

12 E Mezzo Primitivo del Salento 2012
IGP Puglia, Italy $13.95 (395053) 12.5% alcohol
The name mirrors its modest alcohol content, but this gold medal winner is not shy when it comes to rich fruity aromas accented by exotic spice, vanilla and smoky toast. Dry, full, rich and round, this is nicely balanced, well structured to showcase the robust plum and cherry/berry fruit that caresses the palate and complements the pleasantly dry finish. Enjoy with antipasti or mushroom arrosto. (Susan Desjardins)

Hãhã Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealnd $17.95 (388363) 13.5% alcohol
You just have to love a wine called ‘Hãhã’ and I’m not sure if the winemaker was wanting to play a trick—in Maori it means delicious—but there’s nothing tricky about this fabulous Sauvignon Blanc. Very pale in colour, the usual culprits spring to life on the palate; some grapefruit and lime citrus, a little gooseberry. It’s lively with a little pithiness on the finish and lots of fresh pizzazz. Your taste buds burst with saliva which makes it a fabulous apertif. With some fig and hazelnut crisps and soft peppery cheese in an endive leaf it would be divine. A lovely new Sauvignon Blanc on our shelves at a nice price point. (Julie Stock)

  
Featherstone ‘Red Tail’ Merlot 2012

VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 (131540) 13.5% alcohol 

Hand picked and hand sorted, this value-packed beauty was fermented by indigenous yeast. It offers up aromas of black plum, baking spice and dark field berry fruit, bathing the palate with a silky smooth wave of ripe briary berry and black plum interweaving with sweet spice. Deftly balanced with purity of fruit, structure and oodles of style and charm, it finishes lengthy, fruit-forward and delicious. What’s not to like? (Vic Harradine) 

Lafage Côté Sud 2012
IGP Côtes Catalanes, France $14.95 (395236) 14.0% alcohol
This royal purple blend of Syrah and Grenache is an excellent value with peppery notes of the Shiraz to the fore, adding dash to the tasty ripe fruit. Dry, medium-full bodied, it’s nicely balanced and subtly structured, the aging in concrete tank ensuring the ripe fruit flavours shine through, garnished by notes of Mediterranean herbs and spice. Savour the long-lasting dry finish, and enjoy this wine with grilled sausage or lamb stew. (Susan Desjardins)

Piazzano Chianti 2012

DOCG Chianti, Italy $14.95 (393199) 13.5% alcohol
Lovely lifted aromas of ripe fruit, floral notes of rose, sweet spice, vanilla and earth entice you to take that first sip. Dry, medium bodied, this Sangiovese is blended with classic indigenous grapes such as Canaiolo and Colorino. It offers a lively yet smooth flow of flavours across the palate—cherry, berry, licorice, spice, hints of cocoa. Beautifully balanced, easy drinking, it showcases supple tannin, tasty fruit and a clean, fresh finish. An exceptional value and a great wine to serve with your favorite pasta, or sip with antipasti. (Susan Desjardins)

 

Castello di Bibbione ‘Riserva’ Chianti Classico 2009
DOCG Chianti Classico, Italy $22.95 (390377) 14.0% alcohol
Here’s a fine wine from the historic heart of Chianti, presenting lifted floral notes mingling with aromas of red fruits, vanilla and cigar box. Dry, medium bodied, the wine is supple yet the well-defined structure makes its presence felt. The fresh juicy texture highlights brightly flavoured cherry/berry fruit, while hints of dark chocolate and a whiff of pepper and spice whisper through the extended dry finish. It’s lovely, well balanced, and a fine choice to pair with porchetta. (Susan Desjardins)

San José de Aguarón ‘Monasterio de Las Viñas’ Reserva 2006

DO Cariñena, Spain $14.95 (166579) 13.0% alcohol

Floral notes, red cherry and incense herald a lively and lovely river of red currant mingling with kirsch liqueur and spice. Value-packed, balanced and charming, it’s mid weight, nicely textured and blessed with a lingering, smoke-infused, berry fruit aftertaste. Pour alongside chorizo and prawn paella. (Vic Harradine) 

Graffigna Grand Reserve Malbec 2011
San Juan, Argentina $17.00 (162149) 14.5% alcohol
This is deep ruby red in the glass with wonderful aromas of plums and smoke. There’s a little oakiness on the palate but it does not compete with the deep berry fruit, blackberries, even a pinch of tobacco leaf. It’s juicy but bone dry, has lots of structure and will match any grilled meat with panache. (Julie Stock)

Wakefield Chardonnay 2013
Clare Valley, Australia $14.95 (711556) 13% alcohol
Pale golden in colour, buttery aromas of toasted hazelnuts, rich tropical fruits and yellow apple come through on the palate. It’s medium to full bodied with a fruity finish of lingering pineapple. It would hold up nicely to a spicy chicken dish or blackened fish.
(Julie Stock)

Momo Pinot Noir
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $19.95 (163972) 13.5% alcohol
It has dusty, leathery aromas, often found in a Pinot Noir, with lots of sour and dried cherries on the palate. This is an organic product, fine to medium bodied, with some savoury herbs and minerality lingering about the cherries on the palate. It has nice depth, firm tannin and a kick of acidity with a red berry finish; a New Zealand style that will appeal to many Pinot lovers. (Julie Stock)

Rio Madre 2013
DOCa Rioja, Spain $14.95 (354753) 14.0% alcohol
With this introduction to the less-known indigenous grape, Graciano, you’ll want to learn more. Spicy floral aromas combine with hints of vanilla, licorice and sweet dark fruits. Dry, medium-full bodied, this is a robust red offering lashings of sweet, well-ripened fruit flavours framed by refined, perceptible tannin and lively texture that brings out the freshness of the fruit. Dry, tasty and savoury on the finish, you’ll enjoy it with grilled lamb or tapas. (Susan Desjardins

Pillitteri ‘Protagonist’ 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (294025) 12.0% alcohol
This charming off-dry white blend offers a basket of delightful floral and fruit aromas—think tropical scents and fruits, and ripe Niagara orchard fruit. Light-medium bodied in style, the fruit is lush on the palate, a seam of acidity providing balance through the richly flavoured finish. Serve with lightly spiced foods. (Susan Desjardins)

Tommasi Poggio al Tufo Rompicollo 2011
IGT Maremma, Italy $17.00 (13755) 13.5% alcohol
This unique blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon spent a year in oak, notes of smoke and spice drifting over attractive aromas of cherry and black berry. Dry, medium-full bodied, there’s great depth of luscious fruit—lively raspberry and rich black cherry—framed by fine acidity and a firm structure. Tantalizing notes of dried herbs and smoky toast add interest through the lengthy, lively flavourful finish. Designed for cellaring, this wine will pair well now with robust meat dishes. (Susan Desjardins)

Redhawk Vineyard ‘Grateful Red’ Pinot Noir 2012
Willamette Valley, Oregon $21.95 (48710) 13.7% alcohol
Earthy, smoky notes mingle with notions of red fruit and replay as you taste this dry, medium-bodied Pinot Noir. On the palate, the earthy notes and red fruit are joined by a touch of exotic spice and vanilla, the fine flavours balanced by clean acidity. This approachable, tasty wine will marry well with coq au vin. (Susan Desjardins)

The Main Release

Sparkling Wine

Antech Réserve Brut Blanquette de Limoux 2012
AOC Limoux $17.95 (656470) 12.5% alcohol
You just can’t go wrong with Blanquette de Limoux, the original sparkling wine. This award-winning vintage Réserve Brut is no exception! Produced in the Traditional Method (as Champagne) from the Mauzac grape, it’s aromas of lees and white flowers, citrus and orchard fruit replay on the palate, lifted by a fine, long-lasting mousse and a mouth-watering texture. The lively flavours sing through the clean fresh finish. A great value to enjoy with anything! (Susan Desjardins)

Okanagan Valley: White Wine

See Ya Later Ranch Chardonnay 2012
VQA Okanagan Valley $17.95 (126912) 13.0% alcohol
Attractive aromas of pineapple, orchard fruit and citrus interweave with notes of vanilla and butterscotch. Dry, medium-full bodied, aged 9 months in French and American oak, this has a lovely creamy buttery texture, toasty oak, a hint of white pepper and ripe fruit flavours. It finishes with a flourish, rich and creamy. Enjoy with veal blanquette or crown roast of pork. (Susan Desjardins)

Okanagan Valley: Red Wine

Oak Bay Gamay Noir 2012
VQA Okanagan Valley $17.95 (392431) 12.5% alcohol
A gold medal winner at the National Wine Awards, this semi-transparent purple-hued wine shows complexity in aromas and flavours, earth and smoke harmonizing with floral notes, cherry/berry fruit and a whiff of spice. Dry, medium bodied, plum and red cherry are framed by soft tannins and lively acidity, notions of cocoa and a mineral undertone gracing the tangy finish. Enjoy with pork with a herbed mushroom sauce. (Susan Desjardins)

California: White Wine

Gnarly Head Viognier 2013
California $17.95 (396416) 13.5% alcohol
Unoaked, this stylish lively Viognier offers rich lifted aromas of apricot, ripe peach, white flowers and spice. Dry, medium-full bodied, it’s richly fruity on the palate, with a touch of spice and that characteristic note of attractive bitterness on the finish. Well crafted and nicely balanced, it’s a pleasing, approachable wine that will complement roast chicken or turkey casserole. (Susan Desjardins)

California: Red Wine

Grove Street Pinot Noir 2012
Sonoma County $19.95 (231613) 14.5% alcohol
Cherry and red berry aromas, notes of spice and vanilla bound to the fore of this bold, approachable Pinot Noir. Dry, on the big side of medium bodied, it’s balanced and well structured, loaded with rich ripe fruit and toasty oak, and pleasantly spicy through the flavourful finish. Enjoy before and with juicy beef burgers or meatballs in a mushroom sauce. (Susan Desjardins)

Incognito Red 2012
Lodi $19.95 (394890) 14.5% alcohol
Opaque purple, this blend of principally southern Rhône grape varieties showcases black fruit, smoky toast, earth, spice and vanilla. Dry, big, spicy and peppery, the black plum and berry dominates, a notion of smoked meat underlying the ripe fruit. It’s subtly structured, fruit to the fore, with loads of pepper and spice through the rich flavourful finish. Serve with lasagna. (Susan Desjardins)

Argentina: Red Wine

La Posta Estela Armando Vineyard Bonarda 2013
Mendoza $14.95 (261586) 13.5% alcohol
Sweet black fruits just ooze from the glass in this dark and inky wine. It’s heady and exotic with tastes of over-ripe berries. Bone dry, there’s a little green and black pepper on the palate with some dustiness in the finish, no doubt from the Argentine soil. I also enjoyed some chocolate and leather at the end and found it had lip-smacking yum at a good price point. A definite value-laden companion for fatty sausages on a crusty bun. (Julie Stock)

Lamadrid ‘Single Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Mendoza $15.95 (234518) 14% alcohol
This is an enchanting deep ruby red with aromas of black currants and something vegetal and almost minty. Medium to full bodied, it’s very smooth with delicious tastes of pencil shavings—typical in a great Cabernet Sauvignon—lots of ripe berries and soft tannin. A little tobacco mingles with the berries in the long finish. A rare roast beef with grilled veggies would make a fine dinner partner. (Julie Stock)

Trivento Amado Sur Malbec/Bonarda/Syrah 2012
Mendoza (37036) $16.95 14% alcohol
You just cannot go wrong with this red blend—70% Malbec, 18% Bonarda, 12% Syrah it’s like all these grapes fell in love with each other. There are wonderful aromas of ripe red and black currants, a pinch of bitter chocolate, velvety-full mouth feel with soft tannin and one smooth fruity finish. It approaches Nirvana. (Julie Stock)

Australia: Red Wine

D’Arenberg ‘The Footbolt’ Shiraz 2011
McLaren Vale $21.95 (984021) 14.2% alcohol
A deep purpled garnet, almost inky in appearance, this beauty shines with aromas of blackberries, blueberries and a little pepper. The flavours carry through on the palate with a full-bodied mouth feel and structured tannin. It’s full-bodied and rich with just a hint of green pepper on the long finish. This longs for some high-end grilled lamb chops and fresh minted peas. (Julie Stock)

Devil’s Corner Pinot Noir 2013
Tasmania $23.95 (317966) 14% alcohol
On the east coast in Tasmania’s Tamar River Valley lies the Devil’s Corner Vineyard. No doubt named on account of a treacherous bend in the river the winery has become a sanctuary for growing several award-winning varietals entrenched deep with family history. Look for soft aromas of Queen Anne cherries with some herbs, a little forest floor then ripe plums on the palate to give this medium-bodied, silky gem a delicious mouth feel. Fine tannin and refreshing acidity make it an attractive companion with everything from charcuterie to rabbit. (Julie Stock)

Jim Jim ‘The Down-Underdog’ Shiraz 2013
McLaren Vale $15.95 (682005) 14.5% alcohol
Black fruit aromas combined with a little dustiness follow through on the full-bodied palate. There’s a little ground pepper, tobacco and mint underlying the blackberries but it all adds to the complexity of this lovely Shiraz and its medium finish with just the right touch of juiciness—another great value Shiraz. Pick up a couple of bottles for your next dinner party and serve with a Moroccan lamb tagine and couscous. (Julie Stock)

Rolf Binder ‘Hales’ Shiraz 2012
Barossa Valley $19.95 (054239) 13.5% alcohol
One easy sipper! Aromas of liquorice and blueberries, full bodied on the palate with a velvety texture and the rich dark fruits just swirl creating a delicious mouthfeel. There’s a little woodsiness in the wine with a slight taste of oak. Soft tannins prevail on the long finish, another lovely Shiraz to serve with some mustard crusted lamb chops.(Julie Stock)

South Africa: White Wine

Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc 2012
WO Western Cape $14.95 (675421) 13.5% alcohol
A fine Steen, this offers aromas and flavours of stone fruit, pit fruit, melon and a whiff of the lees. Dry, medium bodied, it’s soft and succulent on the palate, the luscious ripe stone fruit shines through framed by a fine seam of acidity. Garnished with a touch of spice—a portion was oak aged—it’s nicely balanced, warm and just plain delicious. You’ll enjoy the wine with blue cheese or a creamy chicken pot pie. (Susan Desjardins)

South Africa: Red Wine

Cathedral Cellars Merlot 2011

WO Western Cape $15.95 (522219) 14.3% alcohol

The fruit for this ruby-hued wine came mostly from the warm vineyards of Swartland, it was fermented at a low temperature to capture that ripe fruit then aged 16 months in a combination of new and seasoned oak. It offers complex aromas and flavours of black cherry, plum, roasted red pepper, spice and a touch of cedar. Dry, medium bodied, the ripe spicy fruit explodes on the palate framed by subtle tannins and well-integrated oak. Fine toasty notes carry through the remarkably fresh, fruity finish. A well-crafted, savoury wine. (Susan Desjardins)

France: White Wine

Stéphane Berg Riesling 2013
AOC Alsace $14.95 (390666) 12.0% alcohol
Riesling lovers take note and pick up a case of this high-value, beautifully balanced and appealing wine. Highly aromatic, displaying lovely floral notes and aromas of stone and orchard fruit, this wine is dry, medium bodied, bright and lively. Flavours of green apple and lemon-lime dance across the palate followed by mouth-watering acidity offering a superbly clean and lip-smacking finish. Simply enjoy. (Susan Desjardins)

France: Red Wine

Château Beauséjour Hostens 2010
AOC Haut Médoc $22.95 (388298) 14.0% alcohol
Inky, opaque, this award winning blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon combines complex, layered aromas of berries with dried herbs, grilled peppers, cedar and mineral. Dry, medium-full bodied, well-defined ripe tannin and fresh acidity frame the bright ripe fruit—raspberry, cassis and blackberry. There’s focus and balance to the wine. Touches of spice and toasty oak tantalize the palate through the dry, extended finish. Designed for cellaring but drinking well now, the wine’s a match for roast lamb. (Susan Desjardins)

Perrin ‘Nature’ Côtes du Rhône 2013
AOC Côtes du Rhône $16.95 (948059) 13.5% alcohol
This perennially reliable Rhône blend offers alluring aromas of black fruit, spiced rose, cedar and vanilla. Dry, medium-full bodied, it showcases a refined structure, good balance, bright, tangy berry fruit and pleasing notes of spice and toasty oak through the finish. Serve it with a veal, mushroom and tomato casserole. (Susan Desjardins)

Italy: Red Wine

Cantina del Nebbiolo Barbera d’Alba Superiore 2011
DOC Barbera d’Alba $15.95 (363002) 14.0% alcohol
This Barbera has a lovely subtle nose—cedar, herbs, ripe fruit and light spice. Dry, medium bodied, it offers a juicy fresh texture, good balance and structure, tasty plum and berry fruit and a hint of mint. A very approachable, versatile wine, offering a fresh, tasty finish, you’ll enjoy it with mushroom risotto or lighter meat pasta dishes. (Susan Desjardins)

Quercecchio Rosso di Montalcino 2012
DOC Montalcino $16.95 (394973) 14.0% alcohol
A semi-transparent ruby, this delightful Sangiovese offers floral aromas, cedar, red fruit and sweet spice. Dry, medium bodied, featuring lively acidity, supple tannin and fresh juicy texture, it’s tangy with red fruit—cherry, raspberry and currant—the notes of spice lingering through the dry, lively finish. Here’s yet another versatile food wine complementing all manner of pasta, pork or chicken dishes. (Susan Desjardins)

Upstream in winecurrent

LCBO Release: February 2015

Über Riesling Kabinett 2013
Prädikatswein, Pfalz, Germany $13.95 (395517) 11.0% alcohol
This is a lovely Riesling that won’t disappoint. Aromas of tropical fruit and floral notes are precursors to a balanced and fruit-filled wash of melon, white peach and tangy lemon-lime. It’s light-medium bodied with good mouth feel and a lingering lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. This goes well with roasted rotisserie chicken or a deli plate of cold cuts and condiments. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: TBA 2015

  
Tawse Vineyard ‘Limestone Ridge - Spark’ Riesling 2013 

VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 (370361) 11.5% alcohol 
This single-vineyard gem bristles with nerve and verve showcasing a solid line of bright acidity. Aromas of flinty/minerality and green apple give way to myriad, small bubbles carrying lemon-lime tang and notions of passion fruit. Clean, dry and vibrant throughout, you won’t go wrong pouring with freshly shucked, briny oysters with condiments—fresh lemon, hot sauce, horseradish. (Vic Harradine)

New in Vintages

Sparkling Wine

The following Santa Margherita Prosecco is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select stores

Santa Margherita ‘Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Brut’ Sparkling Wine Non-Vintage

DOC Prosecco di Valdobbiadene, Italy $17.95 (687582) 11.5% alcohol 

Citrus, toasty, and floral on the nose this dishes out a creamy smooth texture and delicious flavour—it’s also good value. There are oodles of bubbles with a river white peach, lemon sherbet and mouth-watering tang on the palate and lip-smacking finish. Wonderful as a welcoming wine and can be poured with stand-around appetizers. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wine

Chakana ‘Maipe’ Malbec 2013
Maipe, Chile $14.95 (93823) 14.0% alcohol
Lovely aromas of luscious dark fruit mingle with notes of spice and pepper. Dry, medium-full bodied, this wine is loaded with lush fruit—blackberry, blueberry and raspberry jam—framed by ripe tannin and fresh acidity. Toasty notes and notions of dark chocolate linger on the savoury, tangy finish. Enjoy with grilled meats. (Susan Desjardins)

The following 2011 Martini Cabernet is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select stores

Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 

Napa Valley, California $29.95 (232371) 14.6% alcohol 

Rich aromas of black currant and espresso roast mingle with earthy notes on the nose of this wondrously structured, complex gem. A gusher of luscious ripe mulberry and black berry interwoven with mixed spice and dark chocolate floods the palate. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a long finish that’s dry, mouth watering and delicious. (Vic Harradine)

Teleki ‘Villányi’ Kékfrankos 2012
Hungary $13.95 (142133) 14.0% alcohol
The original Csányi Winery was founded in 1881 by Zsigmond Teleki, who became famous for identifying grape varieties resistant to the phylloxera epidemic sweeping European vineyards at that time. Deep ruby, this young yet approachable wine offers very attractive aromas of sweet ripe fruits, dried herbs, spice and vanilla. Dry, medium bodied, it delivers on the promise with intensely flavourful fruit—cherry, berry and plum—offering spicy notes, a peppery mouth-coating texture, well-defined structure and a savoury, warming finish. A good value and a match for a hearty serving of roast vegetables or meat stew. (Susan Desjardins)

New in the LCBO

Spirits

Meukow VS Cognac
Product of France $58.95 (382580) 750 mL 40.0% alcohol
You’ll be attracted to the black panther motif, then captivated tasting what’s inside—it punches well above the VS category. Aromas of currants, sweet vanilla and orange peel introduce a creamy-smooth mouthful of apricot preserve and baking spice interlaced with vanilla and notions of buckwheat honey. There are hints of toasty oak and licorice on the fade. (Vic Harradine)

Liqueur

Luxardo Amaretto di Saschira
Product of Italy $22.95 (215988) 28.0% alcohol
This is premium, almond liqueur with premium, natural ingredients—sip neat or on ice, mix in tea, coffee or orange juice, or in sparkling wine or mixed drinks. Marzipan, vanilla and orange marmalade on the nose, this is flavourful and fully textured, but far from heavy or cloying. It delivers a balanced, persistent stream of sweet marzipan with a dried almond bite—a delightful combination persisting throughout. (Vic Harradine)

Champagne

Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Réserve Champagne Non-Vintage

AOC Champagne, France $47.95 (537605) 12% alcohol

A perennial favourite and value-packed, this has style and charm with enough structure and flavour to pour with appetizers or light mains. There’s a profusion of fine-bead bubbles along with aromas of toasty notes and orchard fruit. It bathes the palate with baked apple and yellow peach flavours beautifully balanced with lemon acidity. (Vic Harradine) 

Sparkling Wine

  
Tawse ‘Spark’ Sparkling Wine Brut 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (384966) 12.5% alcohol
This was made in the traditional method, similar to Champagne. Plenty here to spark your interest—an alluring nose of delicate floral and mineral notes, a profusion of small-bead bubbles and delightful mouthful of soft, lime cordial, white peach and tangy lemon. A luscious blend—59% Chardonnay, 28% Pinot Noir, 13% Pinot Gris—bathes the palate and lingers on the finish, crisp, lively and refreshing. Pour solo or with seafood; it’s quite good value. (Vic Harradine)


Red Wine

McWilliam’s ‘J.J. McWilliam’ Cabernet-Merlot 2013
South Eastern Australia, $9.95 (621599) 13.5% alcohol
This is terrific value. Heady aromas of dark berry fruit and spice are precursor to a medium-bodied, nicely textured river of red and dark berry fruit interweaving with sour cherry and black berry. It’s nicely balanced with a mid-lengthy fruity finish and aftertaste. Pleasant sipped on its own it has the balance and oomph to pair well with comfort food—pizza, burgers, wings or mac n’ cheese. (Vic Harradine)

McWilliam’s ‘J.J. McWilliam’ Shiraz-Cabernet 2013
South Eastern Australia, $9.95 (16741) 13.5% alcohol
McWilliam’s was named Winery of the Year in 2014. Quiet aromas of campfire smoke and red berry fruit dominate the nose on this mid-bodied, tang-laden, popular red blend. Sour cherry and red currant race across the palate robed in tangy acidity and wisps of grainy tannin. Flavours and textures persist through the aftertaste. Pour alongside spaghetti with meat sauce or lasagna. (Vic Harradine)

McWilliam’s ‘Hanwood Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
New South Wales, Australia, $14.95 (214577) 13.5% alcohol
Roasted herbs and dark berry fruit aromas open up a racy river of red and dark fruit infused with good acidity and underpinned with still-evolving tannin—aerate/decant for a couple of hours. This is mid weight with decent texture and fruit, acidity and tannin all present throughout. (Vic Harradine)

McWilliam’s ‘Hanwood Estate’ Shiraz 2013
New South Wales, Australia, $14.95 (610683) 13.5% alcohol
McWilliams is a member of the exclusive Australia’s First Families of Wine. Smoke, pipe tobacco and cedar aromas open the door to a balanced flow of ripe red and dark berry fruit, moderate, balancing acidity and a soft tannin underpinning. Sour cherry and tangy black currant dominate the finish and aftertaste, balanced and beautiful. There’s very good value here with lots of choice at the table; try burgers, beefsteak or grilled lamb. (Vic Harradine)

Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 

Sonoma County, California $18.95 (292151) 14.0% alcohol 

A subtle attractive nose of dark berry fruit, sandalwood and spice sets the table for a tangy, mid-weight flow of red currant, blueberry and spice-infused red cherry over the palate, replaying on the fruit-filled, savory-tinged finish. There’s good mouth feel and plenty of charm. Give this a go with veal marsala or roast chicken. (Vic Harradine)

Shingleback ‘Red Knot’ Shiraz 2013 

McLaren Vale, Australia $17.95 (619395) 14.0% alcohol 

Rich, dark aromas of espresso roast, dark berry fruit and spice introduce a balanced, creamy wash of red cherry and black currant garnished with red currant tang and kirsch liqueur. It’s balanced, mid weight and fruit forward with a dry, lingering finish. This pours well on its own or with grilled rack of lamb or strip loin. (Vic Harradine)

White Wine

McWilliam’s ‘J.J. McWilliam’ Pinot Grigio 2013
South Eastern Australia, $9.95 (291765) 12.0% alcohol
Floral notes and honeyed fruit aromas introduce a lively surge of lemon-lime and grapefruit mingling with lip-smacking grapefruit and pineapple. It’s mid weight and light on its feet with a crisp refreshing finish and aftertaste. Give it a go with pan-seared fish or seafood. (Vic Harradine)

McWilliam’s ‘Hanwood Estate’ Chardonnay 2013
New South Wales, Australia, $13.95 (557934) 13.5% alcohol
Hanwood Estate wines have won 22 trophies and close to one thousand medals. Delicate aromas of pit fruit and citrus interlace with wisps of oak on the nose of this mid-weight, tang-laden Chardonnay. It streaks over the palate with zesty, racy lemon and white grapefruit and hints of minerality and oak. The aftertaste is racy and tangy with notions of grapefruit pith on the finish. (Vic Harradine)

McWilliam’s ‘Hanwood Estate’ Moscato 2013
New South Wales, Australia, $13.95 (212696) 7.5% alcohol
Aromas of rosewater, exotic incense and spice herald a marvelously textured, sweet and tang wash of orange and lemon cordial decorated with grilled pineapple. It coats the palate and persists on the lingering, sweet finish. It’s a dazzling aperitif or welcoming wine and versatile at the table pouring well with spicy Asian dishes, fruit flan or soft cheese like Brie or Sauvagine. (Vic Harradine)

New in Ontario Wineries

Order the following wines for daily delivery by the case to your home, office or restaurant from Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery.

  
Sue-Ann Staff Cabernet Franc 2011
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 12.0% alcohol
Beet red, the wine offers an ethereal nose of earthy, smoky notes mingling with red cherry/berry fruit, vanilla and cocoa. Dry, medium bodied, round and savoury, the palate is awash with tasty berry fruit accented by spiced vanilla, smoky toast and a whiff of dark chocolate. Displaying supple tannin and fresh acidity, this is a well-paced wine offering a flavourful finish. It pairs with grilled vegetables, smoked cheese or lighter winter stews. (Susan Desjardins)

  
Sue-Ann Staff Pinot Grigio 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.00 11.8% alcohol
Pale-straw hued, this well-crafted wine offers attractive and complex aromas—floral notes, melon, orchard fruit and a whiff of almond skin. It tantalizes the palate with a lively, dry, medium-bodied, silky texture. Bright flavours of pear, apricot and lemon-lime are framed by well-defined acidity and subtle mineral note. Pair this nicely balanced, versatile wine with light appetizers, pan-fried fish or roast pork. (Susan Desjardins)

Order the following Tawse wines by the case or mixed case (free delivery over $100) for Monday to Thursday home, restaurant or office delivery from Tawse. 

  
Tawse ‘Quarry Road Vineyard’ Gewürztraminer 2013
VQA Vinemount Ridge $24.95 12.0% alcohol
Farmed organically and biodynamically, it’s aromatically intense with rich flavours showcased throughout—balanced and beautiful. Aromas of rosewater, exotic spice and heavenly floral notes herald a wash of medium-weight, gorgeously textured tropical fruit dripping in rosewater and ginger coating the palate in waves. The balanced aftertaste layers on lime, minerality and the tell-tale Gewürztraminer bite; simply outstanding. (Vic Harradine)

  
Tawse ‘Quarry Road Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2011
VQA Vinemount Ridge $35.95 (307686) 13.0% alcohol
Certified organic and biodynamic, Floral notes—lilac and rose petal—mingle with sandalwood and savory notes on the nose of this mid-weight, tangy Pinot. It streaks across the palate with structure, nerve and verve showcasing red berry fruit and red cherry flavours adorned with minerality and a slight tinge of kirsch liqueur, especially on the lengthy finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

  
Tawse Vineyard ‘Limestone Ridge Vineyard - Spark’ Riesling 2013 

VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 (370361) 11.5% alcohol 
This single-vineyard gem bristles with nerve and verve showcasing a solid line of bright acidity. Aromas of flinty/minerality and green apple give way to myriad, small bubbles carrying lemon-lime tang and notions of passion fruit. Clean, dry and vibrant throughout, you won’t go wrong pouring with freshly shucked, briny oysters alongside fresh lemon, hot sauce, horseradish. (Vic Harradine)

  
Tawse ‘Spark’ Sparkling Wine Brut 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (384966) 12.5% alcohol
This was made in the traditional method, similar to Champagne. Plenty here to spark your interest—an alluring nose of delicate floral and mineral notes, a profusion of small-bead bubbles and delightful mouthful of soft, lime cordial, white peach and tangy lemon. A luscious blend—59% Chardonnay, 28% Pinot Noir, 13% Pinot Gris—bathes the palate and lingers on the finish, crisp, lively and refreshing. Pour solo or with seafood; it’s quite good value. (Vic Harradine)



New in Private Order

Order the following wine by the case for home, restaurant or office delivery (in Ontario) from Nokhrin Wines or email, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; if in the GTA phone (416) 704-8617.

Port Wine: Red

Quinta Casa Amarela ‘Reserve’ Ruby Port Non-vintage
DOC Douro, Portugal $26.95 19.5% alcohol
A lava flow of sweet flavour and spice coats the palate. Aromas of piquant spice and cedar interweave with mocha and briary berry preceding a lively flow of spice-laden sweet kirsch liqueur, ripe mulberry and maraschino cherry. It’s fruit forward and finishes with good tang and wisps of tannin on the aftertaste. Pour with blue-veined cheese, dark chocolate dessert or shards of very old cheddar or Parmigiano Reggiano. (Vic Harradine)

Quinta Casa Amarela 10-Year-Old ‘Tawny’ Port
DOC Douro, Portugal $43.95 19.5% alcohol
Rich, amber-hued ambrosia spills from this stylish Tawny. Warm spice and caramel aromas introduce a luscious, palate-bathing wash of crème caramel, toffee and warm Christmas cake spice along with hints of almond. This is nicely balanced, smooth and mellow throughout with persistent flavours replayed through the lingering finish and aftertaste. Pours well with consommé, crème brulée, spice cake, warmed nuts or aged hard cheese. (Vic Harradine)

Port Wine: White

Quinta Casa Amarela ‘Porto Branco’ Non-vintage
DOC Douro, Portugal $23.95 500 mL 20.0% alcohol
Fashioned in the traditional manner—a variety of mostly indigenous grapes, foot trodden in granite lagars with fermentation interrupted with the addition of brandy—this is certainly special. Flavours range from mango to orange marmalade and white peach with hints of banana. It’s incredibly smooth and mellow throughout. Pour with a couple of ounces of soda and lemon or lime wedge. (Vic Harradine)

Champagne

Gratiot Champagne ‘Prélude’ Non-vintage
Champagne, France $46.95 12.5% alcohol
This opens with a profusion of bubbles releasing aromas of citrus and yeasty notes. It streaks across the palate, mid weight and sleek, showcasing lip-smacking white grapefruit acidity mingling with crisp green apple and minerality. It finishes with flavours and tang persisting through the aftertaste. A beautiful aperitif, it’s a match made in heaven with oysters in pernod-cream sauce. (Vic Harradine)

Gratiot Champagne ‘Maison’ Non-vintage
Champagne, France $43.95 12.5% alcohol
This stunning gem showcases structured and flavourful Champagne that’s stylish, charming and value-packed. The blend—70% Pinot Meunier, 25% Chardonnay, 5% Pinot Noir—spent 5 years on lees, disgorged on July 2013. Floral notes mingle with leesy, lemony aromas preceding a mousse of small-bead bubbles and waves of flavour—ripe apple, lemon pie filling and hints of marzipan. It finishes clean and crisp with oodles of charm and the price-quality balance tips well in your favour. (Vic Harradine)

White Wine

Cantina Colle di San Domenico 2013
DOCG Fiano di Avellino, Italy $26.95 13.0% alcohol
Structure, texture, purity of fruit, balance and the promise of more to come are encapsulated here. Floral and honey notes mingle on the nose before dazzling the palate with a surge of textured ambrosia—hazelnut and almond interweaving with orange-peel marmalade and notions of lemon pie filling. The finish lingers, lip-smacking good. Outstanding now, it will develop further, now to 2020—it was tough to spit. (Vic Harradine)

Casa Amarela ‘Selection’ 2012
DOC Douro, Portugal $23.95 13.5% alcohol
Lively aromas of pineapple and lemon-lime introduce a sweet and tang-laden rush of Key lime and green apple interlaced with Meyer lemon on the palate, persisting through the crisp, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. It’s mid weight with good mouth feel and a lengthy, crisp and refreshing aftertaste. Pour with pan-seared fish or lemon chicken. (Vic Harradine)

Red Wine

Casa Amarela ‘Reserva’ 2012
DOC Douro, Portugal $39.95 13.5% alcohol
Using only premium Port grapes—Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz—from +60-year-old vines and aged nine to twelve months in new French oak barrels, it was bottled unfiltered. It has structure, deft balance, purity of fruit and time on its side. Cassis, toasty oak and hints of vanilla introduce a full-bodied, fully textured surge of ripe mulberry and bramble berry pie garnished with excellent acidity underpinned by a solid lick of tannin. It finishes in a blaze fiery spice, good acidity, perceptible tannin—a three-hour aeration/decant will ameliorate—and plenty of delicious fruit. Will handsomely reward careful cellaring—pop corks 2016 to 2024. (Vic Harradine)

Casa Amarela ‘Tinto’ 2012
DOC Douro, Portugal $20.95 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of cedar, pipe tobacco and earthy notes stream from this smooth, mellow, red blend—Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Baroca, Tinta Amerela and others. Mid-full weight with good mouth feel, a gusher of dark berry fruit, piquant spice and notions of cassis coat the palate infusing the lengthy, luscious and nicely balanced finish. Pour alongside red meat—steak, roast or gourmet burger. (Vic Harradine)

Don Michelangelo ‘Rosso’ 2012
IGT Sicilia, Italy $22.95 14.0% alcohol
This red blend of indigenous grape varieties dishes up aromas of ripe dark fruit, black plum and berry pie. A lively wash of spiced red berry and sweet ripe mulberry bathe the palate interwoven with red licorice. It lingers on the finish with good balance and oodles of charm. You wouldn’t go wrong pouring with grilled rack of lamb or beef and veggie kebabs. (Vic Harradine)

Tenuta Santa Giuliana ‘Piu Rosso’ 2011
IGT Veneto, Italy $49.95 13.5% alcohol
Aromas of rich, dark berry fruit and dark chocolate herald a balanced and beautiful river of sweet ripe mulberry, cassis and mocha from this gorgeous red blend—50% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Refosco. It’s structured, über-smooth and mellow throughout with mid-full weight and textured mouth feel. It finishes lengthy and luscious in a blaze of lip-smacking red cherry and dark berry fruit. (Vic Harradine)

Cheers, Vic, Susan and Julie