2024 Marsovin 1919

Posted on November 11, 2025 by John Galea

We had the pleasure of spending two weeks in Malta recently and we got a chance to sample through a number of their wines … If your interested I did a write up on our trip, planning, etc … Malta if you don’t know is a small series of islands off the boot of Italy. They do not make a lot wine here, and little is exported, and definitely not into the North American market, so it was a treat to explore what they had to offer. Like a number of places wines break down into a number of categories … Non DOK (Malta’s DOC) in which case the grapes can come from anywhere, and are then vinified in Malta. This is not an uncommon practice and happens often when there isn’t enough production to keep all the equipment/people busy. It happens in Prince Edward county here in Ontario.

These non DOK wines are by no means bad, some of them are ok, and we had a number of them. For the most part they are simple easy drinking table wine, keeping in mind the price your paying for them. All of the Delicata Classic Collection , and MDINA wines fall into this category, varietals such as Cab Sauv, Chard, Sauv Blac, Rose etc, we had a number of them and they were ok, not amazing, but very drinkable.

The DOK wines are grown, and vinified in Malta. There are only two indigenous grapes in Malta, the red Ġellewża and the white Girgentina. Ġellewża produces light to medium-bodied red or rosé wines with fruity notes, while Girgentina yields crisp, delicate white wines with citrus and floral aromas”. According to a wine guru I spoke with they have done genetic testing and these are indeed unique to Malta grapes. A number of non indigenous grapes grown in Malta are still DOK wines …

Ok, TLDR onto this wine … dark red in color with a nice red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays lovely rich red fruits, some nice chocolate, firm tannins and acidity. This really is a very nice wine, probably an 88 or so … We brought back 3 of them with us and have enjoyed sharing them with family. Honestly, I would buy this wine if I could get it. From the winery’s web site:

1919 Red 75cl

1919 Red is made using Gellewza and Merlot display a complex, full bodied red wine with intense ripe fruit aromas of forest berries, amarena cherries and figs underlined by distinct notes of peppery, sweet spice and a hint of fresh tobacco. On the palate it is very smooth with plenty of ripe, velvety tannins and a very pleasant, long lingering finish.  Ideal with game, red meat and mature cheeses.

€14.65 Incl. Vat ~$25CDN

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Family Tree ‘The Boxer’s Ghost’ Pinot Noir VQA

Posted on August 19, 2025 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some rich dark cherry notes … On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice pepper, firm acidity and tannins along with some earthy notes . Quite an interesting pinot. I would give it an 87-88 … Not bad for the price. Check stock, this is a general list product.

$18.95 LCBO#: 30622

Product Details

A dazzling display of the quality that can be achieved in the Niagara Peninsula, this wine was made from sustainably grown grapes sourced from numerous farms across the region. Simultaneously ethereal and muscular, this elegant, spicy Pinot Noir shows notes of cherry, cinnamon, oak spice and rosemary.

More Details

  • Alcohol/Vol 13.3%
  • Made In Ontario, Canada
  • Sugar Content 8 g/L
  • Varietal Pinot Noir
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Invivo Taylor’s Rosé 2023

Posted on August 15, 2025 by John Galea

This wine was on sale at the LCBO so grabbed it … Pale salmon in color with a mild nose. on the mid palate the wine is quite tart, almost bitter, with hints of cranberry, and some effervescence on the mouth. On the medium length finish the bitter and tart notes hang around. If I had more I would return them … I’ve give it maybe an 86, and that’s being nice. Yuk. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$16.75Original Price$19.95 Save $3.20 VINTAGES#: 37486

Product Details

Named after co-founder Tim Lightbourne’s son, the 2023 Invivo Taylor’s Rosé is the second vintage of this wine and is a blend of equal parts Pinot Noir and Merlot with Sauvignon Blanc rounding out the mix. Sourced from prime sites in Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne, the wine is elegant and floral, with a zippy, food-friendly acidity and tangy watermelon, blueberry, and Asian pear.

More Details

  • Release Date May 11, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 12.5%
  • Made In New Zealand
  • Sugar Content 3 g/L
  • Varietal Rosé

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Cooper’s Hawk Talon Red 2021

Posted on August 12, 2025 by John Galea

Nice dark berry nose, on the mid palate the wine packs a punch firm firm black cherries, along with some earthy notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some black peppery notes that stick to the tongue along with some lively acidity, and tannins … nice and dry. This is definitely not a wimpy wine. I would give it an 87-88. It might soften a bit with time, right now, definitely edgy. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$17.95 VINTAGES#: 426916

Product Details

A ripe, fun Bordeaux blend featuring 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot. The complex, layered notes of raspberry, dark berry, cherry, cassis, nutmeg, black licorice, cinnamon, cocoa and cigar make for a real treat. Lithe and fresh with grippy tannins, the 2021 is a wine that really overdelivers. There really is a lot to like here. Drink through 2027+.

  • Made In OntarioMade In Ontario

More Details

  • Release DateAugust 2, 2025
  • Alcohol/Vol 13%
  • Made InOntario, Canada
  • Sugar Content 3 g/L
  • Varietal Cabernet Franc Blend
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Zaccagnini Tralcetto Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2021

Posted on August 7, 2025 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some strong tomato notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays strong acidity and tannins. I would give it an 87-88. From the LCBO check stock:

$16.50 VINTAGES#: 396382

Product Details

Cardamom, black fruit and olive tapenade on the nose. It’s savory and medium- to full-bodied with medium-firm tannins. Wet earth undertones. Drink now. Score – 90. (jamessuckling.com, May 3, 2024)

More Details

  • Release Date December 14, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 12.5%
  • Made In Abruzzo, Italy
  • By Vintages Front Line Release
  • Sugar Content 9 g/L
  • Varietal Montepulciano
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Ducks Crossing sauv Blanc

Posted on July 18, 2025 by John Galea

This is another of the wines from Nova Scotia, I bought this one with no research … Pale straw in color with a mild citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice smooth citrus notes, lemon/lime. On the medium length finish the vibrant acidity and dominant citrus notes linger nicely in the mouth … This is a smoother more elegant sauv blanc quite impressive for the price … I would give it an 87-88, quite a nice wine. From the winery’s web site:

Ducks Crossing Sauvignon Blanc

Fresh and aromatic, this classic Sauvignon Blanc is brimming with notes of citrus and tropical fruit. Ducks Crossing Sauvignon Blanc is crisp with a refreshing finish.

  • Ducks Crossing
  • White
  • Curico Valley
  • 750 mL
  • 13% Alc./Vol.
  • $13.87

Nose

Fresh and aromatic, this classic Sauvignon Blanc is brimming with notes of citrus and tropical fruit.

Palate: Ducks Crossing Sauvignon Blanc is crisp with a refreshing finish.

Pairings: Pair with sushi, salads, and ceviche dishes.

Varietals: Sauvignon Blanc

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Skouras Cuvée Prestige Agiorgitiko/Moschofilero Rosé 2024

Posted on July 1, 2025 by John Galea

The Agiorgitiko grape can make some good hearty reds with lots of bite. So when I saw this wine recently at the LCBO I decided to give it a try, and was not disappointed. Salmon in color with a floral and citrus nose. On the mid palate this wine displays some lovely red wine, and red fruit notes, strawberry and raspberry and the like. It’s quite a boisterous wine. On the medium length finish the wine displays citrus and lime notes along with some vibrant acidity that stick to the tongue nicely and linger. This a beautiful, perfect summer sipper for the patio, but if your use to more refined Provence Roses, ya this is so not that. I would give it an -88 or so. I will go back and get more. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$16.95 VINTAGES#: 25745

Product Details

This blend of 70% Agiorgitiko and 30% Moschofilero is sourced from high-altitude vines aged 20+ years. It’s bright and zingy, with cherry, raspberry and floral notes.[Mundus Vini did not include a tasting note.] Score – Gold. (Mundus Vini, 2025)

More Details

  • Release Date July 5, 2025
  • Alcohol/Vol 12.5%
  • Made In Peloponnese, Greece
  • Sugar Content 4 g/L
  • Varietal Rosé
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2024 Ducks Crossing Pinot Grigo

Posted on June 29, 2025 by John Galea

While in Nova Scotia I had a chance to try one of their local wines at a restaurant and was impressed. Pale straw in color with a nice citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some vibrant green apple tartness. On the medium length finish the wine displays lovely vibrant acidity that dances nicely on the tongue and lingers leaving some nice lime notes. This was surprisingly good for the price which is $13.87. We get little if any Nova Scotia wines in Ontario (to the best of my knowledge). I would give it an -88. It is available at NSLC …

From the winery’s web site:

Rich notes of fresh pear and spring blossoms are expressed on this classic example of Pinot Grigio. This wine has a concentrated mouth feel and a long refreshing finish. 

Ducks Crossing White Breede River Valley 750 mL 12% Alc./Vol. $13.87

Nose

Rich notes of fresh pear and spring blossoms are expressed on this classic example of Pinot Grigio.

Palate

This wine has a concentrated mouth feel and a long refreshing finish. 

Pairings

Pair with seafood chowder, aged hard cheeses, potato chips, and edamame.

Varietals

Pinot Grigio

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Corte Medicea Cletus 2021

Posted on June 25, 2025 by John Galea

This is another Super Tuscan, or IGT that get’s to skirt the laws on min Sangiovese percentages and is in fact 50% sangiovese and 50% merlot. Dark in color with a mild nose. On the mid palate the wine delivers some beautiful rich tomato notes, in line with it’s Sangiovese backbone along with some nice red fruits. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice velvety smooth tannins, nice dryness and nice acidity. It’s a lovely well balanced, softer wine. We paired it with venison and it was delicious. I would easily give it an 88, which for the price is a bargain. I actually went back and got more, it’s that good. Yumm … From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$20.95 VINTAGES#: 574137

Product Details

This blend of Sangiovese and Merlot offers a rich, ripe array of dark fruit, herbs, spice, chocolate and vanilla. It will drink through 2026+.[Luca Maroni tasting note not available.] Score – 98. (lucamaroni.com, Oct. 25, 2023)

More Details

  • Release Date February 15, 2025
  • Alcohol/Vol 13.9%
  • Made InTuscany, Italy
  • By Vintages Front Line Release
  • Sugar Content 6 g/L
  • Varietal Sangiovese/Merlot
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2022 Cabernet Franc Tradition

Posted on June 7, 2025 by John Galea

We had this one at the Keg. Since the ban on the Californian wines started the Keg seems to have been very slow to expand their selection of wines. Luckily this one was on the list, $33.50 at the winery, or $56 at the Keg, so not a horrible markup. Dark in color with nice rich black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice rich black cherry notes along with some dark chocolate and oaky notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice smooth tannins and acidity. This is a well made, very approachable cab franc, I can totally see why it’s on the Keg’s list. I would give it a solid 88. From the winery’s web site:

Product Info:

Our Tradition Cabernet Franc shows black cherry complemented with a hint of smoke, dried herbs, and fresh earth on the nose with undertones of graphite minerality. The mineral element of this wine continues onto the palate where field berry and pomegranate balanced with tobacco leaf round out the mid-palate. The lake effect on this Lincoln Lakeshore appellation wine allows for a rich, later-ripening example of Niagara Cabernet Franc from the Bench. 

This wine is solidly structured, with medium tannins and an enjoyable finish. The perfect accompaniment to a meal or great for a glass on its own. Aged 16-18 months in French oak. 100% Wild Fermentation 
Vegan

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2023 Henry of Pelham Three Hills Estate Chardonnay

Posted on June 5, 2025 by John Galea

I use to love the Henry of Pelham Short Hills Bench chard, and then it disappeared. Speaking at the Ontario Wine Show to the Pelham rep there she explained to me they have renamed the wine and reduced the price. I like my Chards oaky, where they pair beautifully, to my tastes, with scallops and seafood. So I bought one to see if it still fits the bill … Pale golden in color with mild apple and pear nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some lovely vibrant fruit notes, apple and pear to match the nose. On the medium length finish the wine displays some softer vanilla notes, nice acidity and some creaminess. It’s a rich lovely dry wine, BUT I have to say, to my tastes it seems less oaked than it was. On the Henry of Pelham web site for the 2024 they describe it as “round and generous wine, perfectly framed by a delicate veil of oak. Rich but at the same time, mouth-wateringly fresh.” I would give it an -88. Quite nice for the price … from the LCBO web site, check stock:

$19.95 VINTAGES#: 268342

Product Details

Henry of Pelham is one of Ontario’s most trusted and beloved of producers. This Chardonnay is always an elegant wine crafted to emphasize focus and precision. It features bold, ripe fruit with pear, quince, vanilla, nuts and toast and a creamy, long mouthfeel. A refined example of Ontario’s prowess with Chardonnay. Try this with grilled pork ribs or grilled lobster.

  • VQA WinesVQA Wines
  • Essentials CollectionEssentials Collection
  • Made In OntarioMade In Ontario

Taste Profile

  • Flavours Pear, White Fruit, Vanilla
  • Sweetness
  • Body
  • Flavour Intensity
  • Acidity

More Details

  • Release Date April 2, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 13.5%
  • Made In Ontario, Canada
  • By Henry of Pelham
  • Sugar Content 4 g/L
  • Varietal Chardonnay
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2024 Botter Oggi Pinot Grigio Rosato Doc Delle Venez

Posted on June 3, 2025 by John Galea

A lovely pink salmon color with a mild citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some lovely strawberry notes … On the lighter side of medium length in finish the wine displays some nice tongue sticking acidity minerality and citrus notes. This is a lovely, soft summer sipper perfect for the patio, nice and refreshing. It’s milder so be careful on the food you serve it with, but for the price, this is a bargoon! I’ll be going back to get more, I’d give it an -88 or so , nice and dry … From the LCBO web site, check stock, this is a general list product.

$11.05 LCBO#: 17901

Product Details

The vibrant pink colour of this rosé is achieved through gentle pressing and soaking of the blush-hued pinot grigio grape skins with the juice. The elegant bouquet has citrus zest and hibiscus notes with flavours of red apple and a dry finish. Serve chilled as an aperitif or with grilled fish filets.

More Details

  • Alcohol/Vol 12%
  • Made In Veneto, Italy
  • By Oggi
  • Sugar Content 4 g/L
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Ermes No Compromise Nero d’Avola 2022

Posted on April 18, 2025 by John Galea

Nero D’Avola can be a rustic, wine with lots of character and this one is spot on … Mild red berries on the nose, about all that is mild about this wine. On the mid palate the wine displays some strong sharp red fruits, bright vibrant acidity and firm tannins. On the medium length finish the tannins and acidity stick to the tongue along with some dark chocolate notes, nice and dry! If your looking for a smoother refined wine this is not it. If you like a wine with attitude, maybe. I would give it an 87-88 and a perfect example of a D’Avola … from the LCBO web site check stock:

$16.95 VINTAGES#: 39679

Product Details

‘No compromise’ refers to Ermes’s determined commitment to sustainability, which is one of their founding principles. This wine is sourced from iron-rich calcareous clay and offers intense red fruit with underlying clove tones and a bold, refined structure. Quite lively, it will drink through 2026+.

More Details

  • Release DateJanuary 18, 2025
  • Alcohol/Vol13%
  • Made InSicily, Italy
  • Sugar Content3 g/L
  • VarietalNero d’Avola
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Molino a Vento Nero d’Avola Sicilia DOC

Posted on March 18, 2025 by John Galea

If you’ve never had the pleasure of trying a Nero d’Avola it’s worth a try. It’s a bit of a more rustic grape, less refined or elegant than some. This wine is dark in color with a mild red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays firm black cherries along with some mild dark chocolate. On the medium length finish the wine packs a good punch with strong black pepper, firm palate coating tannins and acidity, nice and dry. This wine definitely lives in the finish and is edgy, but honestly, this is a softer Nero d’Avola than some. I would consider this a drink now wine, it may soften some, but honestly I like the unique character of the wine. We paired it with lasagna and it went well, but be careful what you serve it with. Red sauce based pasta, pizza are good choices. Steak would also be good. This wine is a general list product and is a bargain … Oddly I could not find the year of the wine on the bottle. I would give it a solid -88 or so … from the LCBO web site, check stock:

$12.70 LCBO#: 31797

Product Details

An elegant organic wine produced in the sunny hills of Sicily, it is matured in stainless steel tanks with minimal oak, preserving its fruit freshness. Intriguing aromas of currant, pomegranate and cherry lead to rich and soft flavours on the palate with fresh fruit and velvety tannins. Pair with pizza and pasta.

  • OrganicOrganic

More Details

  • Alcohol/Vol 13.5%
  • Made In Sicily, Italy
  • Sugar Content 4 g/L
  • Varietal Nero d’Avola
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Philippe le Hardi Vieilles Vignes Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2022

Posted on March 18, 2025 by John Galea

We had venison on the menu so I thought a pinot noir was a good choice, and normally it would be … The LCBO describe this wine as medium bodied and fruity … well they got one half of it right, it sure is a fruit bomb. If someone poured this into my glass and said I made this myself, I would be thinking, hmm not a bad home made kit wine. Not exactly a glowing recommendation for a $29.95 AOP bottle of wine … Garnet in color with a mild red berry nose. On the mid palate soft red berries, red cherry and the like. On the lighter side of medium in length this is most definitely a fruit forward wine with little to no tannins and lighter acidity. Not if you like your wines with not a lot going on, this might be just the wine for you … Not s surprise I am sure, but if I had more (I’d find the receipt, since you now need it) and return the wine. I’ll be generous and give it an 86-87. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$29.95 VINTAGES#: 38096

Product Details

The fruit for this wine was harvested from specially selected south-facing and mid-slope climats across the Côte Chalonnaise. It has good depth, excellent character, a mix of red and dark fruit, and a touch of spice. Quite elegant, long and balanced, it will drink well through 2027+.

More Details

  • Release Date January 18, 2025
  • Alcohol/Vol 13%
  • Made In Burgundy, France
  • Sugar Content 3 g/L
  • Varietal Pinot Noir
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Karl’s Scepter Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Posted on March 15, 2025 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild red berry nose … On the mid palate the wine displays lovely red cherry notes along with some mild chocolate notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some vibrant acidity, and nice tannins … nice and dry. This is a pretty good cab sauv, I would give it an 87-88 which for the price is a good deal … From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$15.95 VINTAGES#: 33732

Product Details

Beautifully composed and splendidly expressed, the bouquet shows dark berry, thyme, game, rich floral and cedar characters. The palate displays excellent weight and fine flow, wonderfully supported by fleshy texture and chalky tannins, making it structured and sturdy with a lengthy, harmonious finish. At its best: now to 2034. Score – 93. (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz, Oct. 2024)

More Details

  • Release DateJanuary 4, 2025
  • Alcohol/Vol 14.5%
  • Made In South Australia, Australia
  • Sugar Content 2 g/L
  • Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon
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Chombart & Speck Cave Mystère Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Posted on February 15, 2025 by John Galea

I last reviewed the Mystere Metlot so when I saw a cab with the same winery’s name on it I grabbed it. What could possibly go wrong 😉 Dark in color with a black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some subtle black cherries almost immediately by some sour firm tannins alogn with earthy notes, leather and dark chocolate. This really was a harsh wine, especially out of the bottle, and while the harsh edges eased a bit as it breathed, it’s really just not an elegant wine at all. If I had more I’d take them back (with the receipt of course). I would give it maybe an 87. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$16.50 VINTAGES#: 39096

Product Details

This wine is ripe, rich and composed, with plentiful dark fruit and plum alongside some earth, nut and leather notes. It shows good length. A nice option for roast meats or mushroom burgers.

More Details

  • Release Date November 16, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 13%
  • Made In Bordeaux, France
  • Sugar Content 3 g/L
  • Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon
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Orestiadi Molino a Vento Syrah 2022

Posted on February 10, 2025 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice soft black fruits, blueberries and the like. On the medium length finish, especially straight out of the bottle, there are some strong peppery notes along with some smoother tannins and acidity. This is more of an elegant syrah vs an edgy shiraz, not in the least bit jammy or sweet, nice and dry. Quite food friendly. I would give it an -88, which for the price is a good deal. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$13.00 VINTAGES#: 39441

Product Details

Sourced from vines grown in the dark soils of the Gibellina Hills, this wine offers up a lifted floral tone followed by flavours of cassis, dark berry, licorice, and pepper spice. Drink through 2026.[Luca Maroni tasting note not available.] Score – 93. (lucamaroni.com, Aug. 28, 2023)

More Details

  • Release Date January 4, 2025
  • Alcohol/Vol 13.5%
  • Made In Sicily, Italy
  • Sugar Content 3 g/L
  • Varietal Shiraz/Syrah
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Marynissen Heritage Collection Pinot Noir 2021

Posted on February 2, 2025 by John Galea

Garnet in color with a nice red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine packs a punch with some vibrant sour cherry notes … On the medium length finish the wine has some strong white peppery notes, along with some nice acidity and tannins. Nice and dry. As pinots go, this is a flavourful, bold one. I would give it a -88 or so. For the price, especially with the tax break still on, it’s a good deal and ought to keep a while, I’d buy more if I could … From the LCBO web site, check stock.

$21.70 VINTAGES#: 41092

Product Details

A smooth, voluptuous Pinot Noir with seductive aromas of ripe cherry and berries. Mouth-watering and juicy. Pinot Noir food pairings: lamb chops from the grill, gourmet burgers, pork roast. Drink: 2024-2028. Score – 91. (nataliemaclean.com, April 27, 2024)

  • Made In OntarioMade In Ontario

More Details

  • Release Date October 19, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 13%
  • Made In Ontario, Canada
  • Sugar Content 2 g/L
  • Varietal Pinot Noir
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2022 Vignerons de Buxy Buissonnier Côte Chalonnaise Pinot Noir

Posted on January 25, 2025 by John Galea

Garnet in color with mild rustic nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice vibrant rustic notes, dried raspberries and the like, all red fruits. On the medium length finish the wine is nice and dry with smooth tannins that coat the palate nicely. The wine really punches above it’s price point. It’s not as long in the finish or as much bite as some but for the price this is a really good wine, yumm. I would give it an -88 or so … Check stock, from the LCBO web site:

$20.80 VINTAGES#: 28284

Product Details

Founded in 1931, Vignerons de Buxy is a collective focused on producing top-flight Côte Chalonnaise wines. Their Buissonnier line comes from select vineyards. This Pinot is sourced from vines grown in pebbly, limestone-rich, calcareous soils and offers red fruit, forest floor, smoke, and a generous, food-friendly texture. It will cellar for 5-7 years from vintage and pair well with lamb or duck.

  • Essentials CollectionEssentials Collection

More Details

  • Release Date April 2, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 13%
  • Made In Burgundy, France
  • Sugar Content 3 g/L
  • Varietal Pinot Noir
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Fattoria Le Pupille Morellino di Scansano 2022

Posted on January 22, 2025 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice red berry nose … On the mid palate the wine smacks with loads of firm tomato notes, they ease a bit as it breathes. On the mid palate the wine is nice and dry with red fruits and tomato like acidity coating the palate. On the medium length finish the dusty tannins and vibrant acidity live on with some nice mocha and dark chocolate … nice and dry! A classic Sangiovese, perfect for pairing with spaghetti, or pizza. Definitely a yum and bargain for the price … From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$16.50 VINTAGES#: 455659

Product Details

Aromas of roses, crushed stones, and light cherries. Medium body. Crunchy. So delicious. Crisp finish. Drink now. Score – 93. (jamessuckling.com, Aug. 7, 2023)

More Details

  • Release Date October 19, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 13.5%
  • Made In Tuscany, Italy
  • By Vintages Front Line Release
  • Sugar Content 3 g/L
  • Varietal Sangiovese Blend
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The Tragically Hip Flamenco Rosé 2023

Posted on January 18, 2025 by John Galea

$17.40 VINTAGES#: 16250

Right out of the bottle this wine has some very interesting colors, it’s just so red, vs more rose … On the nose the wine displays some candied fruits … On the mid palate the wine displays some ripe strawberry (my GF got some cranberry) notes along with some sweetness, not over the top or anything but noticeable. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice vibrant acidity. This is made by Stoney Ridge Winery in Vineland. I would give this an 87-88. If you have an open mind on what a rose ought to be, it would be a good choice, food friendly, and refreshing for a patio sipper. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$17.40 VINTAGES#: 16250

Product Details

Made in a dry, crisp, bold, refreshing, elegant style perfect for sipping on a hot afternoon. Look for notes of strawberry, dark cherry, guava and rose petal. A wine for charcuterie, soft cheeses, or light salmon dishes.

  • Release Date July 6, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 12%
  • Made In Ontario, Canada
  • By The Tragically Hip
  • Sugar Content 11 g/L
  • Varietal Rose
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2021 Mitolo Jester Shiraz

Posted on January 1, 2025 by John Galea

As you may have noticed, I don’t buy a lot of Shirazs … A lot of them are just too jammy … I’ve had this one, a long time ago, and liked it, so I went off my usual script and bought this one … Inky dark in color with a nice mild black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice soft, subtle black berries, blueberries and the like along with some dark chocolate. On the mid palate there’s some typical peppery notes along with some nice smooth tannins and acidity. This wine is not sweet, and not jammy at all, nice and dry. This is most definitely a drink now wine, with very muted fruit. Quite elegant … On the lighter side of medium in length on the finish. I would give it a -88 or so … From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$18.95Original Price$20.95 Save $2.00Sale Ends: January 5th VINTAGES#: 659607

Product Details

Superstar winemaker Ben Glaetzer isn’t clowning around with this opulent Shiraz, a blockbuster with notes of chocolate, fresh rye bread, prune, toast and vanilla. Enjoy with spicy mushroom pasta, chicken wings, ribs or rare roast beef.

More Details

  • Release Date April 2, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 14.9%
  • Made In South Australia, Australia
  • By Mitolo
  • Sugar Content 3 g/L
  • Varietal Shiraz/Syrah
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Pétalos de Aresan Rosé 2023

Posted on December 25, 2024 by John Galea

Pale salmon in color with a nice citrus and minerally nose. On the mid palate the wine displays lively red wine notes, firm ripe strawberries and the like. On the medium length finish the wine packs a nice punch with the vibrant acidity sticking nicely to the tongue, nice and dry. This is made from the tempranillo grape and it shows well … I would give this a solid 88 or so, which for the price is bargain! Not as soft or elegant as say a Provence Rose but nice in it’s own right …

$13.95 VINTAGES#: 37864

Product Details

This 100% Tempranillo rosé was fermented and matured on the lees in stainless steel and reveals brightly defined red fruit, apple, pear and citrus notes. It’s sleek and refreshing, with crisp, food-friendly acidity. It will be ideal with seasonal salads, pasta dishes, or simply as a sipper on a warm day.

  • OrganicOrganic

More Details

  • Release Date June 8, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 12.5%
  • Made In La Mancha, Spain
  • Sugar Content 6 g/L
  • Varietal Rosé
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Schroeder Saurus Select Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc 2021

Posted on December 4, 2024 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some vibrant, fruit forward red and black cherry notes along with some nice mocha. On the medium length finish the wine display some vibrant acidity, firm tannins and bold peppery notes. It’s quite complex, and nice and dry. I quite enjoyed it, I would give it an -88, yumm … From the LCBO web site, check stock:

$22.95 VINTAGES#: 36314

Product Details

Equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from San Patricio del Chañar in Northern Patagonia, the 2021 Cabernet-Cabernet Saurus Select aged 12 months in French and American oak. Notes of candied black fruit, marmalade and cassis unfurl over a toasty, ashen layer of oak. Dry and rich on the palate, well-calibrated acidity provides lift to the fine-grained tannins, leading to a flavorful mouthfeel. This tasty Patagonian red lingers on its fruit notes. Drinking window: 2023-2031. Score – 91. (Joaquín Hidalgo, vinous.com, Feb. 20, 2024)

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More Details

  • Release Date October 19, 2024
  • Alcohol/Vol 14%
  • Made In Patagonia, Argentina
  • Sugar Content 4 g/L
  • Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc
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