Lawson’s Dry Hills 2015 Pinot Noir (mini review)

Posted on May 11, 2017 by John Galea

Garnet in color with a lovely varietal pinot nose, soft red fruits coming through. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with some lovely red fruit, strawberry and raspberries. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice acidity and rustic notes. It has a lovely mouth grip to it. A very nice spot on pinot. I would give it an 88+. One of my favs from the recent New Zealand wine fair held at the ROM 5/10/2017. It’s not in the LCBO right now but will be from what I understand. For now it’s $19.95 a bottle available by the case from Wine Guru.

From the winery’s web site:
LAWSON’S DRY HILLS PINOT NOIR 2015

Region: Marlborough
Winemaker: Marcus Wright/Rebecca Wiffen
Alcohol: 13.5% pH: 3.6 RS: nil
TA: 6.0g/L Brix: 24.1

Our Pinot Noir 2015 was produced from carefully nurtured vines on our Chaytors Road vineyard, where the combination of clone, climate and soil produce something special. Small batch fermentation, hand plunging and aging in French oak barriques has helped to produce an expressive wine with strong berry fruit notes, lovely texture, great concentration and gentle tannins

Cellaring: Two to three years
Food Match: Enjoy in moderation with lighter red meat dishes

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Remy Pannier Sauvigon Blanc Igp Val De Loire 2015

Posted on May 9, 2017 by John Galea

Pale in color with a mild citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some crisp citrus notes to match the nose. On the medium length finish the wine displays some crisp acidity and the citrus notes have some nice mouth feel. For a $12.95 a bottle this is not a bad wine at all. This is a Vin du pay not an AOC wine. There’a another one that is an AOC. I would give it an 88 or so. Not as vibrant as some on the mid palate but lots of complexity in the finish.

Remy Pannier Sauvigon Blanc Igp Val De Loire — LCBO#: 471318
STYLE – Light & Crisp $12.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Alcohol/Vol 11.5% Made in:Loire, France By: Remy-Pannier S.A.Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Light & Crisp Varietal

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2016 Riverlore Sauv Blanc

Posted on May 6, 2017 by John Galea

I last wrote up the 2015 vintage of this wine and enjoyed it. This has largely become one of my go to Sauv blancs. Inexpensive and tasty. It’s in the general list and of the ones I’ve tried it has been the best so far. I like Sauv blancs more edgey and sharp. This one is pale in color with a pink grapefruit nose that just jumps out at you. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with sharp, edgey pink grape fruit dominating the palate. If you like your wine smooth and refined, you will positively hate this wine, I on the other hand like it. The 2016 is even more boisterous than the 2015. I paired it with fettucine carbonara and it did a stellar job of powering it’s way through the fatty, rich saltiness. Yumm. A match made in heaven. I would give it an 88+. The LCBO describe it as aromatic and flavorful and I would whole heartedly agree! By the way if your looking for a good carbonara recipe check out this one on Delish.com. The secret in this recipe is finding the fonatana cheese and I substituted panchetta for bacon. I had a bit of hard time finding a panchetta I like. I started with a Maestro and it was as hard as a rock and too salty. In the end I eventually found a Casa Italia and it was perfect!

From the LCBO web site:
Riverlore Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough — LCBO#: 417600
STYLE – Aromatic & Flavourful
Pale yellow green colour; aromas of ripe pear, gooseberry and fresh cut grass with notes of tropical fruit and lime; dry, medium bodied, richly textured, with balanced fresh acidity, flavours of gooseberry, ripe apple, fresh herb and tropical fruit, with notes of passion fruit and asparagus.
$13.95WAS $15.95 SAVE $2.00 Limited Time Offer Until May 21, 2017
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:August 4, 2015
Alcohol/Vol 13.0% Made in: Marlborough, New Zealand By: Wairau River Wines Ltd.Sugar Content: 5 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry

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2015 Boschendal 1685 Chardonnay

Posted on May 4, 2017 by John Galea

Pale in color with a mild apple/pear nose. On the mid palate the wine displays varietal apple and pear notes to match the nose. On the medium length finish there’s some mild vanilla notes along with some nice acidity. This is a gently oaked wine. I would give it an 88 or so. It’s a nice chard for sure, and for the price not a bad deal. I’m not sure it’s about to displace the Sterling Vintners chard as one of my everyday gotos but variety is always a good thing.

From the LCBO web site:
Boschendal 1685 Chardonnay — LCBO#: 367698
STYLE – Full-bodied & Rich
Pale lemon; intense aromas of ripe stone fruit, apple, peach, citrus and spice; the palate is extra-dry and full body; well-balanced flavours with a creamy, buttery mouth feel and refreshing acidity with a long finish. $14.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:October 27, 2014
Alcohol/Vol 14.0% Made in: Wellington, South Africa By:Dgb (Pty) Ltd. Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Full-bodied & Rich

from the winery’s web site:
VINIFICATION
All the Chardonnay grapes were whole-bunch pressed and the juice cold settled for two days. Thereafter the clear juice
was racked and some of the pure fluffy solids were added to result in an unclear high-quality juice. Natural fermentation
started in stainless steel tanks. After about 2°B was fermented naturally, selected yeast strains were added, and some of the
juice was then transferred into French oak barrels for the remainder of the fermentation. Still on its primary lees, the
wine matured for a further 10 months in barrel: 12% in firstfill and the balance in second-, third- and fourth-fill barrels.
During this time, the barrels underwent monthly bâtonnage (stirring of the lees) to enhance the mouthfeel of the wine.
The final blend consisted of 70% oak-fermented and matured and 30% stainless steel fermented Chardonnay. The latter
component was also left on the primary lees for the full 10-month period.

TASTING NOTES
On the nose: This bold statement wine, which is big onaromas and flavours, has a lemony, cinnamon and nutmeg
nose.

VINEYARDS
Chardonnay for this wine was selected from three areas:
Stellenbosch, Elgin Valley and Boschendal farm, from vineyards planted on well-drained soils. The variety of clones
within the selected vineyards gave complexity and character to the wine. Vines were spur pruned at the end of July, with
excess shoots removed shortly after budding in September. This was followed up in November, leaving only two to three
of the best-developed shoots per spur.

To ensure optimum ripeness, all grapes were hand-picked on taste and came in at an average sugar content of 22.5–24°B.
Harvest took place during mid to end February 2015, after a drier than normal winter. This was a challenging vintage,
where winemakers and viticulturist had to change strategies in the vineyard and cellar to adapt to the vintage to ensure
good quality wine.

AGEING POTENTIAL
Enjoy now but will age with much complexity for the next five to eight years

Palate: Zesty citrus and ripe tropical fruit flavours. Well balanced with a soft, buttery character from barrel fermentation and maturation add to the complexity and roundness of the wine.

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Gray Monk Cabernet/Merlot 2013

Posted on May 1, 2017 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nose of dark berries. On the mid palate the wine displays some mild black berries to match the nose. On the medium length finish the wine displays some firm tannins and some nice dryness. The fruit on this wine is quite subdued and it lives primarily in the finish. It’s not a great wine, but not an aweful wine. I would give it an 87-88. A little disappointing. The Pinot Noir I last tasted from this winery was much better. If I had others I would return them.

From the LCBO web site:
Gray Monk Cabernet/Merlot 2013 — VINTAGES#: 464123
STYLE – Full-bodied & Smooth
Founded in 1972, Gray Monk is one of the pioneering estates of BC winemaking. Among other accomplishments, they are credited with planting the very first Pinot Gris vines in Canada. Their 2013 Cabernet/Merlot is floral and ripe, with an impressive depth of black fruit with cedar, herbs and chocolate tones in support. It will be excellent with lamb kebabs or burgers. (VINTAGES panel, Feb. 2016) $20.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:August 20, 2016
Alcohol/Vol 13.4% Made in: British Columbia, Canada By: Gray Monk Cellars Ltd.Sugar Content: 6 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Full-bodied & Smooth

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2014 Fielding Sauv Blanc

Posted on April 28, 2017 by John Galea

I love my sauv blancs, food friendly and versatile. This one is pale in color with a nice albeit mild nose with some nice citrus notes. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice citrus notes and some nice pink grapefuit. This is a more subtle sauv blanc but the flavors build nicely in the mouth and linger on the medium length finish. Theres some nice acidity too. I would give it an 88 or so … $18.95 at the winery.

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Henry of Pelham Family Tree Red 2014

Posted on April 26, 2017 by John Galea

I’ve had this one in past years and enjoyed it so I grabbed one and was rewarded. Dark in color with an interesting nose with the blend of varietals all coming through, super hard to pin point. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice rich fruit, some dark berries, some cab and maybe even a little shiraz. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice dry notes, tannins and acidity. The complexity of the wine is really quite notable. This is a very nice wine. Like listening to a symphony you can focus and pick out the individual instruments or enjoy the melody they make together! I would give it an 88+. I paired it with a smoked trout and it went beautifully. Red fish red wine. I have to believe this has a good 5 years of cellaring potential too.

From the LCBO web site:
Henry of Pelham Family Tree Red 2014 — VINTAGES#: 247882
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
This blend of syrah (33%), merlot (29%), cabernet franc (19%), cabernet sauvignon (14%), and baco noir (5%) was barrel-aged for 17 months in French (65%) and American (35%) oak. The syrah stakes its claim on the flavours at the outset, but the other varietal components make their mark as the palate evolves. This complexity is underwritten by a very good acidity that’s clean and fresh and adds some attractive juiciness to the texture. The texture itself verges on generous, while the moderate tannins tighten it up slightly. The overall effect is attractive, serious, and very drinkable. Drink now through to 2020 to enjoy its freshness. Score – 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5). (Rod Phillips, rodphillipsonwine.com, Jan. 8, 2017)
$18.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:April 15, 2017
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in: Ontario, Canada By: Henry Of Pelham Family Est. Winery Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Medium-bodied & Fruity Varietal:Shiraz Blend This is a VQA wine

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Terroir La Baume Saint-Paul Fitou 2014

Posted on April 24, 2017 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nose of black berries and some oaky notes. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice black berries to match the nose along with some velvety smooth tannins and some acidity. I would give it an 88-. Not a bad wine, but not fantastic either. I only bought the one and won’t be rushing back to get more.

From the LCBO web site:
Terroir La Baume Saint-Paul Fitou 2014 — VINTAGES#: 480970
STYLE – Full-bodied & Smooth
Deep and youthful, note of oak. Flavoursome and complex, the wines’ defining note is the fragrance and freshness on the finish. Score – Silver Medal. (International Wine Challenge, 2016)
$23.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:April 15, 2017
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in: Midi, France By: Les Grands Chais De France Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:D – Dry Style: Full-bodied & Smooth Varietal: Red Blend
Description This wine is a blend of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah that will pair nicely with peppercorn-crusted sirloin burgers or steaks.

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Clos du Bois 2015 Chard

Posted on April 22, 2017 by John Galea

Slightly golden in color with a nice apple/pear nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice softer varietal apple/pear to match the nose. On the medium length finish the wine displays some mild oak/vanilla notes. This is a more gently oaked chard and quite food friendly. I would give it an 88 or so. The LCBO have it defined as full bodied and rich, this seems a little generous.

From the LCBO web site:
Clos Du Bois Chardonnay — LCBO#: 400549
STYLE – Full-bodied & Rich
Pale straw colour; lifted aromas of golden apple, citrus, butter and toast; dry, medium to full-bodied, creamy in texture with rich flavours of ripe apple, pear, butter, vanilla and toasty oak, followed by a medium length finish.
$15.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:June 7, 2016
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in: California, USA By: Constellation Brands Inc. (Us)Sugar Content: 6 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:D – Dry Style: Full-bodied & Rich

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2013 Kew Soldiers Grant

Posted on April 18, 2017 by John Galea

When I go down to Niagara, I have my favs (like Kacaba, Fielding, and lately Two Sisters) but I try and add in one wild card. In this case not only a winery I have not visited before, but a winery I’ve never had a wine from. This wine is 85% cab sauv and 15% cab franc. The somewhat unique thing here is that the cab franc was appassimento’d. If you have ever had an Amarone from Italy that wine is Appasimento. They basically dry the grape before crushing it. Not to the point of making raisins out of it, but close. Kew has pioneered a mobile appasimento rack. Inky dark in color with a nice black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some lovely bold rich black berries to match the nose backed almost immediately by some nice dry notes and mocha. There’s some dried fruit notes too. On the medium length finish the wine displays some lovely acidity and tannins. This is a surprisingly complex wine for the price. The fact they can do a complex process and resulting wine for such a reasonable price is impressive. The LCBO describe it as medium bodied and fruity. Wouldn’t be my choice, I think it’s full bodied and firm!

From the winery’s web site:
WINEMAKER’S NOTES
Our 2013 Soldier’s Grant is a medium bodied, Cabernet blend, consisting of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. For this particular vintage, and in its entirety, the Cabernet Franc is dried out in the Appassimento style, crushed and then back-blended into the Cabernet Sauvignon. Maturing in oak for eighteen months, this blend is a wine that is strong in character and a fitting way for us to pay homage to the Kew family.

After the War of 1812, the Canadian government awarded Richard Kew the plot of land on which the vineyard sits today. His brother William maintained ownership of the land and ran a successful carriage making business out of the very house in which our retail space is located.

VARIETAL COMPOSITION:
85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc BARREL FERMENTATION: 18 months, French Oak
ALCOHOL: 13.7%, Residual Sugars: 5.2 g/L
RELEASE DATE: July 16, 2016

From the LCBO web site:
Kew Soldier’s Grant 2013 — VINTAGES#: 367318
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity $18.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:December 10, 2016
Alcohol/Vol 13.5%Made in: Ontario, Canada By: Kew Vineyard Est. Ltd Sugar Content:5 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra Dry Style:Medium-bodied & Fruity Varietal:Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc
Description This unique wine takes 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and blends it with 15% Cabernet Franc that has been dried in the appassimento style. Expect an elegant yet richly flavoured and textured wine with blackcurrant, red pepper jelly and spice notes.

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2014 Cannonball cab sauv

Posted on April 14, 2017 by John Galea

I’ve had this wine over a number of vintages and sadly it has been inconsistent. Inky dark in color with a nice fruity red cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with lovely red cherry notes. At first there was a hint of herbaceous notes but this passed super quickly. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice acidity and mild tannins. Not a bad cab at all. I would give it an 88 or so. It has some nice mouth grip best experienced without food.

From the LCBO web site:
Cannonball Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 — VINTAGES#: 291666
STYLE – Full-bodied & Smooth
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:March 18, 2017
750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol13.8%Made in:California, USABy:Cannonball Wine And Spirits, Llc.Sugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & SmoothVarietal:Cabernet Sauvignon BlendDescriptionThis is a wine that always makes a splash! Okay, we know you’ve heard that one before – but it’s true. Typically concentrated and round with dark fruit, cassis, smoke, spice and touches of chocolate, this balanced and well-made, value-priced Cali-Cab will be a massive hit alongside spicy ribs or grilled steak. This is truly a fun wine. $24.95

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Flor de Vetus Verdejo 2015

Posted on April 12, 2017 by John Galea

I like my whites dry and crisp. This one is pale in color with a mild slightly minerally, citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays lovely crisp dry notes to match the nose with minerality and some citrus notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice mild acidity and slight grapefruit notes. This is a lovely dry, food friendly wine. At 2g/l it’s about as dry as it gets, but still not overwhelming. I enjoyed it and would give it an 88 or so. Anywhere you would pair a sauv blanc this would also go well.

From the LCBO web site:
Flor de Vetus Verdejo 2015 — VINTAGES#: 320259
STYLE – Light & Crisp
For those who already like sauvignon blanc but want to explore beyond its limits, this verdejo from Rueda is very much worth a look. It has a lifted, fragrant and unusual nose of lemongrass, mustard flower, vague pineapple and fresh herbs. It’s mid-weight, quite delicate with medium acidity and some wamth. Yet intensely flavoured and focused, with excellent length. A real bargain that should tempt the reticent. Score – 89. (David Lawrason, winealign.com, Sept. 15, 2016)
$14.95WAS $15.95 SAVE $1.00 Limited Time Offer Until April 23, 2017
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:December 10, 2016 Alcohol/Vol 12.5% Made in: Rueda, Spain By:Bodegas Vetus Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Light & Crisp

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2015 Chateau St. Jean Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

Posted on April 10, 2017 by John Galea

I’ve had this wine over the years. This one is mild on the nose with some apple/pear coming through. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice apple and pear to match the nose. On the medium length finish the wine displays some mild vanilla notes. This is a subtly oaked chard. Pretty close to an unoaked. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice dryness and some acidity. I would give it an -88. Not a great chard to my tastes. If I had others I would return them, I’m quite disappointed.

From the LCBO web site:
Chateau St. Jean Chardonnay Sonoma Coast —LCBO#: 269738
STYLE – Full-bodied & Rich
Bright straw yellow colour, vanilla, apple, pear and toasty oak aromas; full bodied with ripe apple and fruit flavours and buttery notes; well balanced with a touch of oak spice to finish. $18.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:July 17, 2012
Alcohol/Vol 13.6% Made in: California, USA By: Chateau St. Jean Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Full-bodied & Rich

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2013 Rocca delle Macìe Chianti Classico

Posted on April 8, 2017 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild lovely red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice mild red fruits, cherries and the like along with some nice dried fruit notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice acidity firm tannins and dryness that builds nicely in the mouth. This is a varietal well made Chianti classico. I would give it a solid 88. It will pair well with any red sauce or red meat. Yumm.

From the LCBO web site:
Rocca delle Macìe Chianti Classico — VINTAGES#: 741769
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity $18.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:April 1, 2016
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in:Tuscany, Italy By:Rocca Delle Macie S.P.A.Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Medium-bodied & Fruity
Description Young by Italian standards, this winery was founded in 1973 – so it’s no wonder their take on Chianti Classico is modern. Food-friendly with cherry notes and hints of grilled herbs. It sings with fine fare like meat lasagna, antipasti or veal scaloppini.

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2013 Murphy Goode Cab sauv

Posted on April 6, 2017 by John Galea

Some wineries struggle with consistency year over year while others like Murphy Goode quietly go about their business making consistently Goode wines, pun intended 🙂 I last reviewed the 2012 Vintage of this wine and enjoyed it. It’s a by the glass wine at Earls. Dark in color with nice nice cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with a lovely fruit forward dark cherries. This is not a fruit bomb but it’s definitely to my mind a drink now style of wine. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice smooth tnnins nice dryness and some acidity. It’s a well made food friendly cab sauv that will go with lots of different foods. I paired it with lamb and it went well. I would give it an 88+. The LCBO say full bodied and smooth and I’d whole heartedly agree!

From the LCBO web site:
Murphy-Goode Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 — VINTAGES#: 427542
STYLE – Full-bodied & Smooth
The year 2013 was brilliant for red varieties in California, as exhibited by this solid blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot. Deep and structured with impressive ripe black fruit that infuses an almost-sweet taste profile, this is long, fresh and balanced. A great value wine from a much-loved producer and a great vintage. (VINTAGES panel, May 2016) $19.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:February 4, 2017
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in: California, USA By:Jackson Wine Estates International Sugar Content:8 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: D – Dry Style:Full-bodied & Smooth

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Carobbio 2013 Chianti Classico (mini review)

Posted on April 4, 2017 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice red berries to match the nose along with some slight dried berry notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice smooth tannins and acidity. This is a smooth elegant Chianti Classico. Perfect for pairing with red sauces and the like. I would give it an 88+. Not in the LCBO but available in cases of 6 for $34 a bottle from Apparition Wines.

From the winery’s web site:
CHIANTI CLASSICO
DENOMINAZIONE DI ORIGINE CONTROLLATA E GARANTITA
A wine of great elegance and finesse, the Chianti Classico Carobbio was born from the union of two great varieties: Sangiovese and Merlot. Its colour is deep red ruby and enhanced by a complex aroma of red fruits and a final pleasant hint of liquorice. Full-bodied and rich on the palate, the Chianti Classico has an intense structure that maintains its balanced taste and a velvety texture, without losing any of its pleasant drinkability. CHIANTI CLASSICO: Controlled and guaranteed designation of origin.
Year: 2013
Grape varieties: Sangiovese 95% Merlot 5%
Harvest: by hand, I-II week of October
Aging: large barrels, 12-14 months
Alcohol content: 13% vol.

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2014 Cathedral cellars Cab sauv

Posted on April 2, 2017 by John Galea

I was over at Prohibition the other day and they had this wine on for $5 a glass as part of their hooch hour. So WTF … why not. Dark in color with a nice fruity cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some fruit forward dark cherry notes to match the nose along with some mocha. On the medium length finish the wine displays some smooth tannins and nice dryness. This is a surprisingly not bad wine. I would give it an 88 or so. Quite food friendly. I paired it with lamb at Prohibition and it went well! Full bodied and firm is how the LCBO describe it, for me that would be embellishing a bit.

From the LCBO web site:
Cathedral Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon — VINTAGES#: 328567
STYLE – Full-bodied & Firm $15.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:April 1, 2016
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in: Western Cape, South Africa By: KWV Sugar Content:6 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Full-bodied & Firm
Description: Offering super value, this Cabernet comes from South Africa’s cool Cape. It displays blackcurrant, dark cherry, spice and savoury herbs supported by bright acidity. Pair with gourmet burgers or steak-and-kidney pie.

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Peacock Sky 2010 Cab Sauv (mini review)

Posted on March 31, 2017 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays deep rich black berries to match the nose along with some mocha. On the medium length finish the wine displays some lovely smooth tannins and dryness. This is a beautiful rich cab sauv. I would consider this one of the best New Zealand red wines I’ve tasted in a bit. I would give it a solid 90. Not in the LCBO but available in a case of 12 for $45 a bottle from Apparition Wines.

From the winery’s web site (for a different year)
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon STOCK UPDATE 20-4-2016: Only about 100 bottles remaining.

Chocolate notes mingle with cherries, brambles and ripe plums, supported by well developed oak. Delicate texture with a round, full initial mouthfeel, and a rich satisfying finish. Made from 100% estate grown fruit.

Our final blend: Cabernet Sauvignon (90%) Merlot (10%)
Alcohol by volume: 13.3%

Detailed Tasting Notes
A refined, elegant wine from a cooler growing season. Chocolate notes mingle with cherries, brambles and ripe plums, enveloped with well balanced oak. Delicate texture with a round, full initial mouthfeel, and a pleasant, long finish.

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Loire region tasting

Posted on March 29, 2017 by John Galea

I recently got invited to a Loire based tasting and lunch at Cafe Nicole in the Novotel. There were a number of interesting wines and great food at the event. But what I found particularly interesting was that the winemaker for Ackerman/Remy Pannier Pierre Charon is doing some interesting things one would not expect from the French. He is intentionally stepping outside the rigidity of the Appellation system and innovating. This includes Blanc du Noir, a white wine made from a Cab Franc (usually a red wine).

Bubblies made outside the Champagne region of France can not legally be called Champagne. In the Loire region (as well as others) they are called Cremant and are made from Chennin blanc, chardonnay and cab franc, local grapes to the Loire Valley appellation. Two of the Cremants were lovely. The first an Ackerman Cremant du Loire priced around $18 was crisp, dry and very food friendly with some nice acidity on the finish. The second Cuvee Ambrose was also nice and crisp and dry but had a higher amount of chardonnay, saw some oak and was longer on the lees so for me was much more reminiscent of a Champagne style bubbly. They expect this one to come in around $22.95. Sadly at this time neither are available in Ontario (not even by the case). Like champagne the Cremants are non-vintage meaning they blend grapes from different years to make a consistent product.

They also brought an oak aged (aged for a year) Chennin blanc they called Samur blanc 2015. With an expected price of $19.95 that had some almost chard like flavors. Some apple/pear notes along with some vanilla. On the medium length finish the wine displays some lovely food friendly acidity. It was nice and dry and would pair perfectly with scallops. I would give it an 88 or so. Sadly, again, at this time it is not available in Ontario (not even by the case). This was my favorite white of the event.

There was a nice Cab Franc 2014 Secret des Vignes Chino 2014. A lovely red berry varietal cab franc nose, smooth mid palate to match along with some nice tannins, acidity and dryness. There was a hint of peppery/spicy notes on the medium length finish. I would give the wine an 88+. A very approachable cab franc that would be food friendly and pair well with red meats. Sadly, again, at this time it is not available in Ontario (not even by the case). This was my favorite white of the event.

I can only hope that in the near future Eurovintage are able to bring some of these lovely wines into Ontario!

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Gray Monk Pinot Noir 2014

Posted on March 27, 2017 by John Galea

Garnet in color with a mild soft red berry nose. On the mid palate this is a varietal spot on Pinot Noir. Lovely soft red berries to match the nose, strawberries and the like along with some nice rustic notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some lovely dryness and nice tannins. The wine has some nice mouth grip with the rustic notes lingering nicely. This is quite a complex wine, for the price it’s a great deal. A perfect pinot. I would give it an 88-89. Yumm.

From the LCBO web site:
Gray Monk Pinot Noir 2014 — VINTAGES#: 251835
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:March 4, 2017
750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol12.1%Made in:British Columbia, CanadaBy:Gray Monk Cellars Ltd.Sugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Pinot NoirDescriptionGray Monk began operations in 1972 and it’s one of Canada’s most well-known producers, let alone BC. You can expect this 2014 Pinot Noir to be earthy and floral with a lovely texture. Look for notes of sandalwood, cherry, smoke and peppery spice. Enjoy with grilled salmon or herb-dressed grilled pork.This is a VQA wine. $19.95

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Marangona 2015 Lugana Turbiana (mini review)

Posted on March 25, 2017 by John Galea

The Italian wine scene can be overwhelming to some. There are so many unique varietals that are unique not just to Italy but to specific regions of Italy. You could spend a lifetime learning them all. But not a bad way to spend some time don’t you think? This particular wine is made from a Turbiana grape in the Lugana region. Pale in color with a nice crisp nose with lots of minerality coming through. On the mid palate the wine displays some lovely crisp minerality to match the nose along with some citrus notes. On the medium to long length finish the wine displays some lovely tart notes that build in the mouth. The wine has some very nice mouth grip with the acidity lingering nicely in the mouth. This is definitely on the bigger side. It’s a food friendly wine that could easily hold it’s own against some spicy foods and the like. I really enjoyed it. I would give it an 88+ Not in the LCBO but available in cases of 6 for $28 a bottle from Apparition Wines. Yumm.

From the winery’s web site:
MARANGONA LUGANA
100% ‘Turbiana,’ or Trebbiano di Lugana, grown using a ‘double arc’ cordon in calcareous, mineral-rich clay soil. The grapes are picked by hand into small boxes, pressed as whole clusters, and fermented at low temperature. Once fermentation is complete the wine is aged on its fine lees for about 4 months, then bottled early in the following year. No oak or malolactic fermentation. The vines are around 20 years old.

Pale straw color; aroma of almonds, herbs, citrus and a touch of apricot; flavors completely consistent, with excellent acidity, fresh and long. I love this as an aperitif, or as a broadly useful table wine (roast chicken, fish…).

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2015 Root 1 Sauv blanc

Posted on March 23, 2017 by John Galea

Every now and then I grab a wine from the general list on flyer. No research … This is one of those. It caught my eye. Chile is one of the rare regions not affected by phyloxera a pest that loves eating grape roots. The result is that Chile, and this wine, have vineyards still growing on their original, sometimes very old vines/root stock. That is this wines claim to fame. Pale in color with an odd nose, some almost solvent notes. On the mid palate the wine displays some mild citrus notes and some odd solvent like notes. It’s not horrible, but not awesome either. I have no idea how to describe the flavor or where it might be coming from or if this might be a bad bottle of some kind. On the medium length finish the wine has some nice acidity and the solvent notes are mildly noticeable. A day later did not help it. I would give this an 87-88. In spite of the super low price this is not a great wine and there are much better Sauv blancs out there.

From the LCBO web site:
Root 1 Sauvignon Blanc — LCBO#: 445882
STYLE – Aromatic & Flavourful
Pale straw colour; the nose opens with a bright citrus bouquet, lime, grapefruit and fresh cut grass; the palate is extra-dry, light to medium-bodied with more crisp, fresh flavours of citrus, mineral and fresh herb notes; the finish is short and elegant. $12.95

Release Date:October 5, 2016
Alcohol/Vol 12.5% Made in: Casablanca Valley, Chile By: Vina Ventisquero Ltda. Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Aromatic & Flavourful

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2014 Cupcake Black Forest Decadent Red

Posted on March 20, 2017 by John Galea

Dark in color with a black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some rich black berries to match the nose, black cherries and the like along with some mocha. Straight out of the bottle the alcohol was quite noticeable but that died down a little. On the medium length finish the wine displays some firm tannins, sharp dryness and acidity along with some peppery notes. This is a surprisingly complex wine for the price, indicative of it being a heavily blended wine. It actually reminds me a lot of an aussie shiraz. I would give it an 88 or so.

From the LCBO web site:
Cupcake Black Forest Decadent Red— LCBO#: 470088
STYLE – Full-bodied & Smooth
Deep ruby red colour; aromas of sweet black fruit, chocolate cake and vanilla with notes of dark fruit, cherry and spice; dryish, medium to full-bodied, soft, rounded, moderately structured palate, supporting flavours of dark fruit, cherry, blueberry, spice, vanilla and dark chocolate, notes of cinnamon and sweet fruit. $14.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:February 7, 2017
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in:California, USA By: Cupcake Vineyards Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Full-bodied & Smooth

From the winery’s web site:
A dark, decadent red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Petite Verdot and Petite Sirah. The barrel aged Cabernet Sauvignon provides the powerful but elegant backbone and structure while the Merlot adds the dark berry nose and luscious mouthfeel. The Zinfandel adds a particular spiciness that you can only grow in California. PetiteVerdot, a winemaker’s best friend, always makes a blend taste better and adds a pretty floral aroma and purple hue while the Petite Sirah seals thedeal with its inky color and round tannins.

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2015 Lacey Pinot Noir (mini review)

Posted on March 17, 2017 by John Galea

When tasting wines from Prince Edward county one has to be careful. There are a number of the wines that are made from Niagara grapes. Now while I have no objection to this practice I prefer when the winery is up front about it and I can make a choice. This particular Pinot is PEC fruit! Garnet in color with a nice light red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with some nice soft raspberry/strawberry notes along with some nice varietal rustic notes. It’s smooth on the finish. I would give it an 88 or so. A nice pinot and a great example of what PEC can deliver! Not in the LCBO so you will have to take a trip out to the county $22 a bottle or grab it from Apparition wines.

In case you’re not aware. there’s a wine event coming up that will feature wines from Prince Edward County called County in the City. I’ve gone since they started this event. And it’s a great opportunity to sample some of the county’s wine and meet some of the wine makers.

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2016 Azul Sauv Blanc (mini review)

Posted on March 15, 2017 by John Galea

I had the pleasure of being invited to the first portfolio tasting of Apparition Wines held at the yet to be open Birch Bistro. Laurie Hillesheim has created a beautiful space on Mount Pleasant. She chose some lovely meats that paired perfectly with the wines. I am looking forward to the opening of this new French style restaurant! Be sure and checkout this 1901 Heinzman bar piano. One of the keys is actually signed by Heinzman!

When one thinks of great white wines out of Argentina, a Sauv blanc does not jump to the forefront. This one is capable of changing that. I have no idea why there aren’t more sauv blancs in Argentina. This one is pale in color with a lovely citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays lovely crisp citrus notes along with some nice grassyness. On the medium length finish the wine displays some lovely citrus notes that build in the mouth. It has some nice mouth grip. This is a lovely boisterous sauv blanc. Just how I like them. I would give this an 88+. It’s not in the LCBO, so you will have to buy it by the case from Apparition Wines in a case of 12 for $24 a bottle. Yumm … This is one of a number of outstanding wines I tasted from Apparition’s portfolio, I was thoroughly impressed. More reviews to come …

From the winery’s web site:
AZUL
SAUVIGNON BLANC
This beautiful Sauvignon Blanc has aromas of citrus, pink grapefruit, lime, with a whiff of green grass. On the palate, an explosion of intense citrus flavour swith along, crisp finish. Ideal to accompany salads, shellfish and other light seafood dishes. Serve well-chilled.

Vineyards Location: Agua Amarga Tupungato/ Tunuyán
Altitude: 1200
Plantation year: 2003/2005
Irrigation system: drip

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