Litorale Val delle Rose Vermentino 2019

Posted on May 27, 2021 by John Galea

I love Vermentinos but sadly we don’t get a lot of them in Ontario. This one is pale to slightly golden in color with a nice crisp dry nose. On the mid palate the wine packs some lovely tart green apples along with some citrus notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice vibrant acidity and the citrus notes and acidity stick around nicely in the mouth. On the tongue there’s a hint of effervescence. This wine is quite tasty with enough oomph to hold it’s own with some lively food. I would give it an 88 or so. I can imagine this easily keeping a couple years. Yumm .. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Vermentino

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 17703$17.95JS90 (0)Write a Review

Cooked apples and pears with some lemon undertones. It’s medium-bodied with creamy texture and a long, flavorful finish. Drink now. Score – 90. (jamessuckling.com, July 14, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:May 15, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13%Made In:Tuscany, ItalyBy:Famiglia CecchiSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Aromatic & FlavourfulVarietal:Vermentino

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Private Reserve True North 100% Canadian 2017 750ml

Posted on May 14, 2021 by John Galea

As always the term reserve, in Canada, has no specific designation … This one is dark in color with a nice dark berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice dark berries, some mocha and the like. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice soft velvety tannins and some vibrant acidity. I struggle with this wine, it’s not a bad wine, in a lot ways a good wine, but for the price? Ya that’s where I have an issue. I would give it an 87-88 maybe even lifting to a level of an -88. We paired it one night with a strip long, and the second night with a bacon wrapped filet and it was fine. I guess your getting the overall impression … Would I buy another, well I guess you figured that out too … I can figure out better wines for $26.95, this was an impulse buy on the way out of the grocery store. From the winery’s sales shop:

Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot / Cabernet Franc from Canada

A medium to full bodied red blend with plenty of dark fruits, spice and oak aromas and flavours.$26.95

Private Reserve True North 100% Canadian 2017 750ml

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Sidewood Sauvignon Blanc 2020

Posted on May 5, 2021 by John Galea

Pale straw in color with a vibrant citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some vibrant citrus notes and zest. On the medium length finish the wine displays some vibrant acidity, some grapefruit and lemony notes. The acidity coats the palate quite strongly and there are some slightly metallic notes in the aftertaste. This is definitely more of an edgy sauv blanc. The back of the bottle says “Citrus and nettle aromas intertwined with delicate crisp flavors of gooseberry, lemon peel and grapefruit.” There’s a definite strong note of tartness and dryness to the wine. I would give it an -88, be sure and pair it with something lively. We paired it with pan fried pickerel and it was on the verge of overwhelming it. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 518357$18.95AWC95

A fragrant blossom-filled bouquet, with tropical notes feeding through to a lively, juicy palate that presents a dual stream of citrus and passionfruit flavours. Has the effortless charm that many sauvignon blancs lack. Ready now. Drink by: 2022. Special Value. 2020 Halliday Wine Companion Top 100. Score – 95. (James Halliday, winecompanion.com.au, Nov. 1, 2020)READ LESS

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:April 17, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12.8%Made In:South Australia, AustraliaBy:Ashwood Estate Pty Ltd Trading As SSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Aromatic & Flavourful

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Stefano Farina Barbera d’Alba 2018

Posted on May 3, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice dark berry nose. On the mid palate the wine has some vibrant dark berry notes to match the nose. On the medium length finish the wine displays some vibrant acidity, some mocha/dark chocolate, and firm tannins, I would give it an 88 or so. This wine is bigger than I would have expected, quite hardy and maybe even a little young. I like my wines with a bit of bite, so to my tastes, it’s ready to be enjoyed but ought to keep easily for another couple years. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Barbera

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 10601$17.95LM90

This wine is made from 100% Barbera grown on the slopes surrounding Alba and leading down to the Tanaro River. Expect bright red fruit wrapped in gentle tannins, and pair with pasta bolognese.[Luca Maroni tasting note not available.] Score – 90. (lucamaroni.com, 2021)READ MORE. SCREEN READERS, CONTENT WILL APPEAR ABOVE THIS CONTROL.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:April 17, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.8%Made In:Piedmont, ItalyBy:Tenute Stefano Farina SrlSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Barbera

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McManis Pinot Noir 2019

Posted on May 2, 2021 by John Galea

Garnet in color with a nice rustic, red fruit nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice rustic raspberry notes. On the lighter side of medium in length the wine displays some nice vibrant acidity. This is a food friendly pinot about half way between a fruit forward and a more serious one. We paired it with rack of lamb and it was a nice pair. I would give it an 88, which for the price on a pinot is a good deal! This is more of a drink now wine IMHO so not really a long term keeper. From the LCBO web site: Check stock:

Pinot Noir

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 570739$22.95 (0)Write a Review

This will be a richly flavoured wine that offers up the telltale refinement and silky texture of Lodi. Fermented in stainless steel and aged for six months in French oak, this Pinot will have brightly framed cherry, strawberry and raspberry, with hints of vanilla and oak spice adding depth and character. Pair with cedar-planked salmon or a roast beef dinner.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:April 17, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.4%Made In:California, USABy:Mcmanis Family VineyardsSugar Content:6 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Pinot Noir

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2020 The Ned Sauvignon Blanc

Posted on April 18, 2021 by John Galea

Pale straw in color with a mild grapefruit nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some softer pink grapefruit notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice vibrant acidity and citrus notes. This is not as sharp as some, and not as elegant as others. I’d give it an 87-88. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Sauvignon Blanc

750 mL bottle | LCBO#: 470070$13.95~~$16.95~~ Save $3.00 Limited Time Offer
Until April 25, 20214.0 (2)Write a Review

The Ned is classic New Zealand-style sauvignon blanc. Clear pale lemon in colour; pronounced aromas of quince, citrus, herbs and spice; on the palate, extra-dry, with medium-minus acidity and medium-plus body; flavours of fresh quince, citrus and herbs with a mineral note.

PRODUCT DETAILS

750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13%Made In:Marlborough, New ZealandBy:Marisco VineyardsSugar Content:5 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Aromatic & FlavourfulVarietal:Sauvignon Blanc

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Mount Riley Sauvignon Blanc 2019

Posted on April 15, 2021 by John Galea

Pale straw in color with REALLY BIG nose of pink grapefruit, it jumps right out of the glass … On the mid palate the wine matches with a mouth full of pink grapefruit. On the medium length finish the wine displays some firm acidity where citrus notes live on. If there is any complaint about this wine is that it’s not complex with all flavors living on one level. It’s reasonably long so it comes down to if you like pink grapefruit or not. I would give the wine an -88, I won’t be racing out to grab more, but if I had more I wouldn’t return them either, so meh it’s ok. From the LCBO check stock

Sauvignon Blanc

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 981670$17.95WO93 (0)

The wine is fabulous fruited and lifted on the nose showing nectarine, grapefruit, feijoa and kaffir lime characters, leading to a vibrant palate that is intensely flavoured and lingering. The wine offers terrific fruit purity and lively mouthfeel. At its best: now to 2022. Score – 93. (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz, Sept. 2019)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:September 19, 2020750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13%Made In:Marlborough, New ZealandBy:Mount Riley Wines LimitedSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Aromatic & FlavourfulVarietal:Sauvignon Blanc

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Château Peyros Tannat/Cabernet Franc 2016

Posted on April 8, 2021 by John Galea

There was a hint that this was going to be a bigger wine, and that was that they added Cab Franc to soften the tannat … I think this might be my first tannat. Inky dark in color with a nice cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice rich vibrant cherry notes along with some dark chocolate. On the medium length finish the wine displays some vibrant acidity, rustic tartness and firm notes. It’s not to the point of green notes, more of an inelegant sharpness that you can either love of loath. If your looking for a smooth food friendly wine, ya this isn’t that. We paired it with a striploin and it went well. I did decant it for a bit and it softened a little … Interestingly enough, on the back of the bottle, they actually recommend decanting it. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 208249$18.95WE90 (0)Write a Review

Château Peyros Tannat/Cabernet Franc 2016 from LCBO

The Cabernet Franc softens the Tannat’s tannins in this full-bodied wine. There is a definite structure, but it fits snugly into the black fruits and ripe acidity. This rich wine is ready to drink. Best Buy. Score – 90. (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, April 1, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:March 20, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Southwest, FranceBy:Famille LesgourguesSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & Firm

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Château Teyssier Montagne-Saint-Émilion 2018

Posted on April 4, 2021 by John Galea

Inky dark in color with a black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays beautiful rich black fruits, blackberry, cherries and the like. On the medium length finish the wine displays lovely rich dry tannins, and the black fruits live on nicely. This is a bigger wine, so be sure and pair it with something bigger. I would give it an 88+ Yumm, not cheap but your worth it! In my opinion, and I like my wines bigger, this is a ready for drinking now, don’t wait (LCBO says best after 2024) , but it will easily hold for another 2-5 years. The LCBO web site says medium bodied and fruity, I think kind o undersells it. The From the LCBO web site, check stock:

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 226035$24.95JS934.5

Château Teyssier Montagne-Saint-Émilion 2018 from LCBO

So much fresh mushroom and bark with blue and black fruit in the nose. It’s full-bodied, turning tight and lightly chewy on the mid-palate. Long and racy. Drink after 2024. Score – 93. (jamessuckling.com, March 5, 2021)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:March 20, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Bordeaux, FranceBy:Champagne Et Chateaux ExportSugar Content:3 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & Fruity

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Buried Cane Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Posted on March 30, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice vibrant cherry fruit to match the nose, on the medium length finish the wine displays some nice smooth tannins and acidity, nice and dry! This is a spot on varietal smooth cab, about half way between a a fruity cab sauv and a hearty one. I would give it an -88 … From the LCBO web site:

Cabernet Sauvignon

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 402081$19.955.0 (1)Write a Review

The name Buried Cane refers to a technique, commonplace in cold wine-growing regions such as Ontario’s own Prince Edward County, parts of the Pacific Northwest and others, whereby vines are covered in earth and ‘hibernate’ through the winter to avoid freezing. Expect this Cab to deliver big, dark berry and currant fruit and plush tannins, and pair it with hearty beef stew.READ MORE. SCREEN READERS, CONTENT WILL APPEAR ABOVE THIS CONTROL.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:March 20, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.9%Made In:Washington, USABy:Vintage Wine EstatesSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & SmoothVarietal:Cabernet Sauvignon

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Weszeli Felix Grüner Veltliner 2019

Posted on March 28, 2021 by John Galea

Pale straw in color with a mild citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine has a strong effervescent note, one of the strongest effervescent notes to date, along with some zesty citrus notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice acidity that dance on the tongue. I would give this an -88. We paired it with pan fried haddock, and it went okay but not did not compliment it. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Grüner Veltliner

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 18385$17.95WE89 (0)Write a Review

Subtle lemon on the nose is amplified by gentle spritz on the palate. The body is light, fresh and easy and holds nuances of white pepper and the most subtle saltiness from the yeast. Refreshing and thirst-quenching. Score – 89. (Anne Krebiehl, MW, Wine Enthusiast, Sept. 1, 2020).

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:March 20, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:11.5%Made In:Niederösterreich, AustriaBy:Weingut Weszeli GmbhSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Aromatic & FlavourfulVarietal:Grüner Veltliner

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Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico 2016

Posted on March 26, 2021 by John Galea

Inky dark in color with a nice dark berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice rich black cherry notes along with some nice mocha. On the medium length in finish the wine displays some nice soft tannins and smooth acidity. This is a smooth, vibrant well made varietal chianti classico, nice and dry! For the money, it’s a good deal! I would give it an 88+. We paired it spaghetti and meat balls it was a heavenly match. From the LCBO web site, check stock;

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 421388$18.95WS91 (0)Write a Review

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico 2016 from LCBO

Black cherry and plum fruit figures prominently in this medium-bodied red, shaded by tar, tobacco and iron accents. Saturated and vibrant, with a complex, lingering aftertaste. Best from 2022 through 2033. Smart Buys. Score – 91. (Bruce Sanderson, winespectator.com, Feb. 29, 2020).

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:March 6, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:14%Made In:Tuscany, ItalyBy:Castelli Del GrevepesaSugar Content:5 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & Fruity

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2019 Matua Hawke’s Bay Sauvignon Blanc

Posted on March 11, 2021 by John Galea

Pale straw in color with a mild pink grapefruit nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some spot on grapefruit notes, not as edgy or sharp as some … On the medium length finish the crisp citrus notes and vibrant acidity cling to the tongue. I would give this wine an -88 and it’s on sale right now. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

750 mL bottle | LCBO#: 619452$14.95~~$16.95~~ Save $2.00 Limited Time Offer
Until March 28, 2021 (0)Write a Review

Matua Hawke's Bay Sauvignon Blanc from LCBO

Award-winning wine, crafted off the beaten path in Hawke’s Bay. Brimming with lifted aromas and flavours of spice, grapefruit, smoke and herbs. The palate is fresh and clean with balanced acidity and notes of citrus and herbs on the finish. Try with light seafood and herbed fish dishes.

PRODUCT DETAILS

750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12%Made In:New ZealandBy:Matua Valley Wines LtdSugar Content:3 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Aromatic & Flavourful

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Ponte Pellegrino Aglianico 2018

Posted on March 8, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a soft red berry and woody nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice soft red berry notes to match the nose, maybe some tomato notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice vibrant acidity and soft approachable tannins that coat the palate gingerly. This is not as edgy as some Aglianicos, and is quite food friendly. A perfect pizza wine for a perfect price. I’d give it an -88 or so. From the LCBO web site, check stock;

Aglianico

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 18611$14.95GR2 / 3 (0)Write a Review

The Aglianico variety reaches its zenith in the southern Italian region of Campania, where the warm, dry conditions coax out plenty of spicy dark fruit wrapped in structured tannins. Pour this stunningly affordable wine alongside sausages and sautéed mushrooms.[Gambero Rosso did not include a tasting note.] Score – 2 Glasses (out of 3). (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:March 6, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13%Made In:Campania, ItalyBy:Fattoria AloisSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Aglianico

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2018 Crew Cab Franc

Posted on March 6, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice black cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice vibrant black cherry notes to match the nose, some spot on varietal cab franc flavors. On the medium length finish the wine displays some vibrant acidity, nice dryness and some good structured tannins, along with some mocha and dark chocolate. For the money, this is a lovely wine from the Erie VQA. There is some sweetness but it is offset by the tannins and acidity. To my tastes, this is an approachable ready to drink now wine, Yumm. I would give this an 88 or so, which for the price is a great deal! from the LCBO web site, check stock:

Cabernet Franc

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 315945$22.95

Cabernet Franc is considered to be a bit of an Ontario specialty, and recent vintages in particular have seen Mother Nature and winemaking skill fit together hand-in-glove to create some of the finest examples ever. This one from 2018 is filled with generous plum, cassis and dark fruit, with a superb structural underpinning. Pair this gem with barbecued ribs, roasted turkey, and roasted veggies. (Vintages panel, Sept. 2019)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:March 6, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.8%Made In:Ontario, CanadaBy:Colchester Ridge Estate Winery Inc.Sugar Content:8 g/LSweetness Descriptor:D – DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Cabernet Franc

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2018 Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay

Posted on March 4, 2021 by John Galea

Slightly golden in color with a mild nice apple/pear nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with nice apple and pear along with some oaking notes like vanilla. This is not a super oaked wine, but more of a subtle gently oaked wine. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice soft acidity, nice and dry, beyond what the g/l would imply. We paired it with grilled scallops and it was perfect. I would give it an -88. Not bad at all. From the LCBO web site, check stock;

50 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 369686$21.95

Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay from LCBO

One hundred percent barrel-fermented Chardonnay with the richness one wants from California. Plenty of sunny fruit and lively freshness. Creamy and round with notes of buttered toast and tropical fruits. Try with char-grilled corn on the cob, or with grilled chicken.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:April 1, 2020750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:California, USABy:Jackson Family Wines IncSugar Content:9 g/LSweetness Descriptor:D – DryStyle:Full-bodied & Rich

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Borgo Salcetino Chianti Classico 2017

Posted on March 1, 2021 by John Galea

In a wine class, the instructor used the phrase “if it grows together … it goes together” so tonight was pasta night, so a Chianti Classico was on the preferred list … I’ve really come to appreciate them. This one is dark in color with a mild cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays nice cherry notes along with some tangy tomatoes … On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice tannins and vibrant acidity. It’s a Chianti Classico with a bit of a bite to it. It went well with a red sauce spaghetti, on it’s own the vibrant acidity dominates the tongue. I would give it an -88. It might benefit from a bit of aging or breathing (or decanting). None the less, we enjoyed it. From the LCBO web site, check stock: By the way, you may have noticed Vintages have removed the PDF version of the bi-weekly release, as it is not in compliance with AODA standards, so don’t go looking for it. I don’t quite get how the printed version which you can’t zoom in etc is AODA compliant but the PDF isn’t?

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 17399$21.95VIN89

Borgo Salcetino Chianti Classico 2017 from LCBO

The 2017 Chianti Classico is a very pretty, fragrant wine with bright red berry fruit, mid-weight structure and fine overall persistence. The translucent side of Sangiovese comes through nicely in a classy, polished Chianti Classico that really pulses with energy and vibrancy. Drinking window: 2019-2029. Score – 89. (Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, Aug. 2019)READ LESS

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:February 6, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13%Made In:Tuscany, ItalyBy:Societa Agricola Livon S.S.Sugar Content:6 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Sangiovese/Canaiolo

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2018 Cave Spring Cabernet Franc

Posted on February 25, 2021 by John Galea

Cab Franc is a grape that grows well in Niagara, and Cave Springs are a benchmark for entry level Cab Francs that punch above their price point. This one is dark in color with a nice albeit mild black fruit nose. On the mid palate the wine delivers some nice solid black cherries that coat the mouth beautifully. On the medium length finish the wine delivers some nice vibrant acidity, some mocha, some noticeable alcohol and some edgy tannins, nice and dry. It’s a bit young, but if you like your wines bigger in flavor like I do, it’s a drink now, but it easily could keep a couple years and soften, as well the alcohol would integrate. There are no green notes, and no green pepper. I would this wine a solid 88+. Yum. Grab it at the LCBO, check stock: Perfect steak wine!

50 mL bottle | LCBO#: 523001$17.95

Sourced from vines planted in limestone-rich clay, sandstone and shale, this wine was fermented using indigenous yeast and aged for 14 months in predominantly older French, Hungarian and American oak barriques. Cave Spring calls it ‘… firm [with] sour cherry fruit … ripe cassis … dark berry, black pepper, and coffee …’ A wine that will cellar to 2025+, but you can enjoy it tonight with shepherd’s pie or steak.READ LESS

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:February 6, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:14%Made In:Ontario, CanadaBy:Cave Spring Cellars LtdSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityThis is a VQA wine

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Gassier Sables d’Azur Rosé 2019

Posted on February 23, 2021 by John Galea

A beautiful salmon color in the glass, this wine displays some mild citrus notes. On the mid palate the wine is vibrant and vivid with bold strawberries being dominant, some mild hints of pink grapefruit as well, but overall the flavors are tart, crisp and minerally. On the medium length finish the wine displays some vibrant acidity that dance on the tongue and linger beautifully, SUPER DRY! In some ways, this reminds me of a vibrant sauv blanc, and one must be careful what you pair it with. We had it with bacon quiche, and while I can’t say it fought with it, and actually held it’s own, I’m also not sure I can say if complimented the meal. This is a BIG rose. I would give it a solid 88, but be careful what you serve it with. From the LCBO web site, check stock;

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 33621$18.95WAL90 (0)Write a Review

Gassier Sables d'Azur Rosé 2019 from LCBO

An impressive degree of texture and flavour has been coaxed out of the grapes that produce this characteristically pale Provençal rosé. Notes of strawberry, pomegranate, thyme and rose petal persist from the nose to the finish. The saltiness complements the sweetness of fruit on the palate and the length is excellent. Score – 90. (Sara d’Amato, winealign.com, Aug. 1, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:November 28, 2020750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12.5%Made In:Provence, FranceBy:AdviniSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & Dry

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Mon Frère Vintner’s Selection California Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

Posted on February 20, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice mild cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine is a lovely, varietal spot on cab with lots of fruit forward cherry notes coming through. On the lighter side of medium in length the wine has some nice soft acidity and tannins. Definitely more of a drink now style of wine. We had it with Pizza and it went perfectly. I would give it an -88. from the LCBO web site, check stock;

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 16463$22.955.0 (1)Write a Review

Mon Frère Vintner's Selection California Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 from LCBO

This wine comprises grapes sourced from prime sites in Napa, Sonoma, Lake County, Mendocino, Lodi and Paso Robles. The result is a wine of excellent depth and concentration, with a soft mouthfeel, refined balance, and tasty notes of blackberry, tea, and oak spice. Pair this crowd-pleaser with lamb burgers or grilled pork chops. (Vintages panel, Nov. 2019)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:January 9, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.9%Made In:California, USABy:Palm Bay InternationalSugar Content:6 g/LSweetness Descriptor:D – DryStyle:Full-bodied & Smooth

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Antoine Simoneau Touraine Sauvignon Blanc 2019

Posted on February 17, 2021 by John Galea

If your looking for value out of France, look no further than Touraine which is the little brother of better know Sancerre’s, and come at a much reduced price. Pale straw in color with a nice citrus and minerally nose. On the mid palate the wine is spot on varietal sauv blanc with nice crisp dry citrus notes, where the minerality dances nicely on the tongue. On the medium length finish the wine’s minerality, citrus notes, and dryness live on in the mouth. A lovely, varietal softer sauv blanc. I would give it an 88 or so, well worth the money. Spot on, food friendly! From the LCBO web site, check stock;

Sauvignon Blanc

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 15755$16.95 (0)Write a Review

This fresh, lively wine was sourced from flinty clay soils and matured on the lees. It’s crafted in an easy-to-enjoy style that offers great value. There’s lots of lime, guava, quince and apple notes. Try it with Vietnamese spring rolls. (Vintages panel, Nov. 2019)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:January 23, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12%Made In:Loire, FranceBy:Earl Paris SimmoneauSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Aromatic & FlavourfulVarietal:Sauvignon Blanc

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2016 Two Sisters Cab Franc

Posted on February 14, 2021 by John Galea

I wanted something special for Valentines day, so I splurged and order three different wines from Two Sisters to make the day! This one is dark in color with a nice cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some lovely vibrant edhe dark cherry notes along with some dark chocolate … On the medium length finish the wine displays some firm acidity, lovely dryness and nice tannins. The rich fruits linger beautifully in the mouth, coating the palate. Even though this is already a 5 year old bottle of wine it’s showing well and will for quite some time. I chose to let it breath in the bottle a bit to slightly dial down the acidity. I would give this wine an 89, yum. From the Winery’s web site: $54.80 from the winery.

The 2016 vintage was sunny and warm, with a long, ideal fall for ripening. Lots of sunshine allowed the fruit to ripen slowly and gain flavor and concentration. Only 1.58 tons per acre were harvested, adding to the concentration of the wine.

The very deep ruby, almost opaque, colour is an indication of the concentration and complexity of the wine. The intense nose is wonderfully Cabernet Franc, with a unique combination of fruits, herbs, and spices. This combination gives the wine a subtly savory character. Aromatics of ripe black cherries and blackberries, cassis, dried tea leaves, sweet basil, tomato leaf and red peppercorns entice the nose. The exceptional structure of this wine really becomes evident, as the supple tannins and pronounced acidity balance the flavor profile. There is a pleasing spiciness that arises on the palate, and especially during the finish, that makes this Cabernet Franc especially enjoyable.

Posted in Canadian, JG Review | Leave a comment

2018 Tawse Growers Blend Pinot Noir

Posted on February 13, 2021 by John Galea

I last wrote up the 2016 vintage of this wine which I grabbed at the winery. This one I grabbed at the LCBO. Deep garnet in color with a mild cherry/raspberry nose. On the mid palate the wine is a spot on, varietal pinot noir with nice sour cherry, raspberry notes coming through, nice and vibrant. On the medium length the finish displays lovely rustic notes, vibrant acidity and smooth tannins, nice and dry. If you were looking for a wine that typifies pinot in Niagara, ya this is it. Yumm, I would give it an 88. From the LCBO web site, check stock;

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 130989$25.95

Tawse Growers Blend Pinot Noir from LCBO

A polished, refined Pinot, with upfront cherry and strawberry notes. Successfully delivers both a pretty and a substantial feel. Pair with cedar-planked salmon or a charcuterie platter.READ MORE. SCREEN READERS, CONTENT WILL APPEAR ABOVE THIS CONTROL.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:April 4, 2020750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12.5%Made In:Ontario, CanadaBy:Tawse WinerySugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Pinot NoirThis is a VQA wine

Posted in Canadian, JG Review | Leave a comment

Feudo Arancio Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Posted on February 12, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice dark cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some lovely vibrant dark cherry notes, spot on varietal cab sauv, along with some nice dark chocolate and mocha notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice vibrant acidity and nice dry tannins. Quite a nice, spot on varietal cab with no errant herbal notes. We paired it with BBQ salmon and it went well. I would give it an 88 or so, which for the price is a great deal, yum! I will go back and grab more. The wine is 8g/l in residual sugar, but you wouldn’t know it. This would be perfect with red meats and not too overwhelming for salmon. From the LCBO web site, check stock: FYI … this is a Sicilian wine!

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 10359$15.95MVGold (0)Write a Review

Feudo Arancio Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 from LCBO

Cabernet Sauvignon is a famously consistent traveller in that it retains its hallmark structure and core blackcurrant character pretty much anywhere it’s grown. This Sicilian take was matured 12 months in French barriques, promising rounded edges and a subtle smokiness.[Mundus Vini did not include a tasting note.] Score – Gold. (Mundus Vini, Summer Tasting 2019)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:February 6, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Sicily, ItalyBy:Nosio SpaSugar Content:8 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & FirmVarietal:Cabernet Sauvignon

Posted in Italian, JG Review, Wine | Leave a comment

Franschhoek Cellar The Churchyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Posted on February 9, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice dark cherry nose along with a hint of match stick. On the mid palate the wine displays nice dark cherries, and dark chocolate notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some edgy tannins and vibrant acidity, nice and dry. For this price this is not a bad cab sauv at all. I would give it an 88, not as elegant as some, but nice in it’s own right. From the LCBO web site, check stock: Now as it happens this is back to back on the Pomar Junction so how do these compare? The Pomar is a richer mid palate, softer more refined, but heh this is cheaper 😉

Cabernet Sauvignon

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 634667$14.95 (0)Write a Review

Matured for 8-12 months in French oak, this wine is known for evocative blackcurrant, blackberry and violet notes along with spicy and smoky shading, while its structured tannins make it a divinely inspired choice for roast beef cooked rare. The producer suggests it’ll show best through 2023.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:January 23, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:14.3%Made In:Western Cape, South AfricaBy:Dgb (Pty ) Ltd.Sugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & SmoothVarietal:Cabernet Sauvignon

Posted in JG Review, South Africa, Wine | Leave a comment

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