2015 Tawse Growers blend Cab Franc

Posted on February 9, 2019 by John Galea

This is the second time I’ve had this wine and been impressed. The first time we were out for dinner at the Ancaster old mill and I chose it, this time around we were having guests over and I love showcasing Niagara wines to my guests … Nice and dark in color with a varietal cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice traditional cab franc notes, cherries, some mocha and some wood notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice firm but smooth tannins and acidity. It’s nice and dry and has some lovely flavors that build in the mouth. The is a very typical cab franc, done well the way Niagara can do. Tawse achieved a very nice wine … it is a bit on the heartier side so careful what you pair it with. It’s approachable now as long as you want a bigger wine, otherwise it should easily age for a year or two which would soften the tannins some. I chose it as the wine to go with cheese before dinner, and the wine to go with chocolate brownies, it went well. I would give it an 88+. Quite nice!

From the LCBO web site (Check stock)
Tawse Grower’s Blend Cabernet Franc — LCBO#: 284570
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
The 2015 vintage is a meaty and smoky one for the Grower’s Blend, rife with currants, berries, liquorice and a whiff of BBQ smoker smoulder. Though the texture is a bit syrupy at present it’s really just a matter of youth as the wine will gain elasticity and lengthen over time. The ubiquitary cabernet franc blend from a handful of Niagara Peninsula vineyards is one of winemaker Paul Pender’s great specialties of the house, like a restaurant’s top notch hamburger on a menu with much more complex and higher priced items. This is the ticket that all who order will enjoy and feel satiated by. It will please lovers of the variety and convert those who think only the other cabernet can fulfil wishes and dreams. A tannic finish tells us a quality burger would elevate the game. Drink: 2018-2022. Score – 90. (Michael Godel, winealign.com, Nov. 15, 2017) $28.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:March 31, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 13.0% Made in: Ontario, Canada By: Tawse WinerySugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra Dry Style:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal: Cabernet Franc This is a VQA wine

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2015 Chateau Breillan mini review

Posted on February 6, 2019 by John Galea

This wine was one of my favorites of a recent Sichel tasting held by Vinexx. Inky dark in color with a mild black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine delivers beautiful dark fruit to match the nose. ON the medium length finish the wine displays some nice firm velvety tannins, some peppery notes, and is beautifully dry. This wine has some nice complexity, and beautiful mouth grip, building nicely in the mouth. For the price this is a lovely bold, complex wine. This is a wine from the left bank of Bordeaux.  I would give it an 88-89. Sadly not in the LCBO but available by the case of 12 for $23.95 from Vinexx.

From the winery’s web site:
BACKGROUND
Situated to the east of the village, the chateau is surrounded by woodland and vines. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages. Last century, the Breillan estate produced a very correct, carefully crafted, rather robust and deeply coloured wine called “Clos Montaigne”, and a white wine called “Clos du Cardinal”; its tiled-floor winery and its vats, all in varnished oak with their black-painted hoops, were the pride of its owners. The vines which surrounded Breillan at that time represented just one tiny part of the huge estate attached to the chateau.
From fortified residence to simple dwelling, from wine estate to specialised teaching establishment, Chateau Breillan has never ceased to adapt to the times and has succeeded in surviving down the centuries.

Blanquefort viticultural college now farms the vineyard, 42 hectares of which are contiguous to Château de Dillon.

SURFACE 5 ha
GRAPE VARIETIES Merlot – Cabernet Franc
TERROIR
Gravel and calcareous clay
WINEMAKING/MATURING
Throughout the seasons, from pruning to leaf-culling and green harvesting, every effort is made to obtain quality grapes. To ensure the highest possible quality and also to protect the environment, the vineyard is farmed using integrated farming methods: the soil is worked with the aid of efficient farm machinery to restrict the use of chemicals. Managed grass cover is also used. Machine harvesting. The wine is fermented using the traditional Médoc methods in combination with modern techniques for improved quality and greater environmental protection. Maceration prior to, during and after fermentation, 3-5 weeks. Controlled temperatures, 26°C-28°C. The wine is run off after 18-20 days. Malolactic fermentation at 20°C. Aged in stainless steel vats for 18 months.

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2017 Emiliana Adobe Organic Merlot

Posted on February 4, 2019 by John Galea

Ok I know this isn’t a popular sentiment, but I like a good fruit forward merlot … Movies like Sideways where the lead character screams I’m not drinking Merlot, along with changing consumer tastes have left Merlot, nowhere near as popular as it once was. Niagara do some great Merlots, but often they are more hearty rich flavorful wines. I do digress. I first tasted this wine at the Chilean wine fest this year and decided to give it a deeper dive … In spite of being in the general list, it’s not in a lot of the LCBOs. Dark in color with a nice plum nose … On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with nice plum notes. This is definitely a nice fruit forward merlot the way I like them. Not as bold as some I’ve had but good none the less. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice acidity and tanins. It’s a well balanced wine with the finish not overwhelming the fruit. It is a perfect companion for softer foods like poultry or pork … we paired it with BBQ salmon and it went well and even held up to chocolate brownies for dessert. I would give it an 88 or so …

From the LCBO web site Check LCBO stock:
Adobe Reserva Merlot Organic — LCBO#: 322024
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
Ruby coloured; moderate aromas of ripe blackberry, cedar and spice; dry and medium bodied; flavours of rich blackberry and a spicy, cedar finish. $13.15
PRODUCT DETAILS
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in: San Antonio Valley, Chile By: Vinedos Emiliana S.A.Sugar Content:4 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Medium-bodied & Fruity Varietal:Merlot

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Château Clos Mansio 2015

Posted on February 1, 2019 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice back plum nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some bold rich black plum notes, the merlot is quite dominant. On the medium length finish the wine is nice and dry with some nice tannins and mild acidity. This is an approachable food friendly wine. We paired it with a meat spaghetti and it worked well. I would give it an 88 which for the price is a good deal. It’s not as complex as some, quite good! The LCBO say full bodied and smooth, I agree! From the winery’s web site: this wine is 70% Merlot 30% Malbec. This is a wine from the Right bank of Bordeaux in the Blaye Cotes du Bordeux region.

from the LCBO web site Check LCBO stock:
Château Clos Mansio 2015 — VINTAGES#: 630095
STYLE – Full-bodied & Smooth
This is a blend of primarily Merlot with approximately 30% Malbec. The two are fermented and aged separately before blending. The Merlot is aged in vats, while the Malbec is aged in French oak barrels. The resulting wine has an engaging nose of toast and coffee and a rich, dense palate with more coffee and smoke tones, as well as ripe dark fruit and chocolate notes. The oak is nicely integrated and controlled. Try this with lamb chops or burgers. (Vintages panel, May 2018) $19.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:January 5, 2019
Alcohol/Vol 14.3% Made in: Bordeaux, France By: Sas Gonnet Gilson Sugar Content:4 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style: Full-bodied & Smooth

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Henry of Pelham Family Tree Red 2017

Posted on January 29, 2019 by John Galea

I’ve had this wine in past vintages and been impressed, so I looked forward to this one with expectations. And you know what happens when you have expectations … Inky dark in color with a nice black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine has some lovely rich black berries to match the nose, quite fruity. On the medium length finish the wine displays some mild tannins and some lively acidity. Frankly the bottle was better on day two than day one where I found it too fruity, maybe too young? Overall I would give it an -88. I bought a second bottle and will hold off and let it age a bit in the bottle to see if it lives up to past vintages status …

From the LCBO web site (check stock):
Henry of Pelham Family Tree Red 2017 — VINTAGES#: 247882
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
The Speck brothers at Henry of Pelham sourced this blend of 30% Syrah, 25% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Baco Noir from their own vineyards and those belonging to friends and family – hence the name Family Tree. It shows beautiful ripe blueberry, blackberry, raspberry and currants, with a touch of peppery spice, all wrapped in a silky texture. Pair with meat pie or wild game. (Vintages panel, Dec. 2018) $18.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:January 19, 2019
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in:Ontario, Canada By: Henry Of Pelham Family Est. Winery Sugar Content:6 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style: Medium-bodied & Fruity Varietal:Shiraz Blend This is a VQA wine

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Domaine du Bois-Malinge Sur Lie Muscadet Sèvre et Maine 2016

Posted on January 27, 2019 by John Galea

I had only seen Sur lie as a process on Chard/champagne. Seems this can also be done on some Muscadets, as is this one. Pale to golden in color with a nice mild nose of minerality. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with lovely rich minerality. There’s no citrus notes to my tastes. On the medium length finish the wine displays nice crisp, dry minerality. The wine has some lovely mouth grip that grows in the mouth. The minerality nicely coats the palate. The wine is super food friendly. While the wine is not watery, I would not consider it overly creamy either. I have no idea how long it was in contact with the lees. I quite enjoyed this wine, muscadet grape is a little new to me, recommend by a colleague, thanks Greg. I bought this particular wine on a flyer with no research. I would give it an 88+. The LCBO say light and crisp which to my tastes is a little under describing the amount of flavor in this wine.

From the LCBO web site (Check stock):
Domaine du Bois-Malinge Sur Lie Muscadet Sèvre et Maine 2016 — VINTAGES#: 224246
STYLE – Light & Crisp
Muscadet can sometimes be somewhat neutral, but this 2016 from Domaine du Bois-Malinge is no shrinking violet. It’s quite aromatic, with floral notes, pear fruit and a refreshing herbaceousness. The pairing of Muscadet Sèvre et Maine and oysters is a classic one for a reason. Consider this the excuse you’ve been waiting for to try fresh-shucked oysters for the first (or fiftieth) time. (Vintages panel, May 2017) $14.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:December 22, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 12.3% Made in: Loire, France By: Gilbert Chon & Fils Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Light & Crisp Varietal:Muscadet

From the back of the bottle:
The has created by the Chon Family at the beginning of the XXth century. It is mainly defined by the sand the silt composing the ground. The presence of the blue schist in the ground is really suitable to elegant wines. This Muscadet which matured on the lees has a pale golden color and is rich in almond and white citrus aromas. The smell is lasting and gives a great vivacity which is sustained by iodine notes. It finally ends in the mouth on a spicy note, which conforms a rich and balanced fruit along with a nice perlant. This Muscadet sur lie is perfect for seafood and fishes.

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13th Street Red Palette 2017

Posted on January 25, 2019 by John Galea

Wandering though the LCBO I saw this one at a price I couldn’t resist. Dark in color with a nice plummy nose, the merlot is definitely present. On the mid palate there’s some nice plum notes to match the nose. No the medium length finish the cab franc kicks in with some nice firm acidity, some tannins and some nice dryness. It’s not a bad wine for the price. I paired it with lamb chops and it held it’s own. I would give it an 87-88. Not a bad wine for the price.

From the LCBO web site Check stock
13th Street Red Palette 2017 — VINTAGES#: 249458
13th Street Red Palette 2017
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
Just about two-thirds Merlot and one-third Cabernet Franc, the 2017 vintage of this perennially popular bistro-style red offers ripe berry fruit, violets, black pepper and a touch of cedar. Not overly hefty, it’ll make a nice warm-weather sipping red and will suit herbed meaty pizza or barbecued chicken. (Vintages panel, March 2018)
$13.25
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:August 4, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 13.1% Made in:Ontario, Canada By: Thirteenth Street Wine Corp.Sugar Content:5 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style: Medium-bodied & Fruity Varietal:Red Blend This is a VQA wine

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Johnny Q Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

Posted on January 19, 2019 by John Galea

Inky dark in color with a dark berry nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with black cherries, a hint of blueberry, and some oaky notes, it’s definitely a fruit forward wine.. On the mid length finish the wine displays some smooth tannins and acidity. I would give it an 88 or so.

From the LCBO web site Check stock:
Johnny Q Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 — VINTAGES#: 530121
STYLE – Full-bodied & Firm
[The 2017 New Zealand International Wine Show did not include a tasting note.] Score – Gold. (New Zealand International Wine Show, 2017) $16.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:January 19, 2019
Alcohol/Vol 14.5% Made in: South Australia, Australia By: Quarisa Sugar Content: 6 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra Dry Style:Full-bodied & Firm Description: TASTING NOTE: The aromatic properties of this still-youthful wine come to life with some air. It’s densely structured with superb intensity, juicy ripe black fruit, cassis, smoke and spice in abundance. A big, burly wine with great balance and integration that punches well above its price point. Enjoy this with steak. (Vintages panel, May 2018)

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Domaine Jacky Marteau Sauvignon Touraine 2017

Posted on January 17, 2019 by John Galea

Very pale in color with a mild citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with some nice citrus notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice crispness, minerality acidity. It’s vivid and bright with some nice complexity that is best appreciated without food. It is very food friendly, we paired it with chicken schnitzel and it went well. The wine builds in the mouth … I would give this an 88+, which for the price is a good deal. Touraine is a region in the more well known Loire valley where Sancerre. My LCBO product specialist said, it you like Sancerres you will like Touraine’s and they tend to be cheaper! Deal! I’ll have to keep an eye open for more Touraines!

From the LCBO web site Check LCBO stock:
Domaine Jacky Marteau Sauvignon Touraine 2017 — VINTAGES#: 745349
STYLE – Aromatic & Flavourful
100% Sauvignon Blanc. Attractive and concentrated with grassy aromas and ripe fruit. Pear and minerals on the palate. Plush. Score – 88. (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2018)
$15.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:January 5, 2019
Alcohol/Vol 13.0% Made in: Loire, France By: Domaine Jacky Marteau Sugar Content: 4 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Aromatic & Flavourful Varietal:Sauvignon Blanc Description: Silver Medal winner at the 2018 Concours Général Agricole in Paris.

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2017 Thirty Bench winemakers blend Chard

Posted on January 15, 2019 by John Galea

I’ve been buying this for a couple of years now, and sadly it’s trending opposite to my tastes, becoming more fruit forward, less complex, less oaky. 2015 was the best of the years to date (to my tastes). Vinification notes say it’s changed only in going from 10 months of french oak to 9. Pale in color with a nice apple/pear nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice apple and pear to match the nose. The fruit is definitely the star. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice firm acidity and some pepper notes. Its slightly creamy, but very little vanilla or butterscotch. Trending more towards an unoaked chard. I would give it an -88 or so.

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Rock Point Pinot Noir 2015

Posted on January 13, 2019 by John Galea

The release before Christmas from the LCBO is always filled with lots of over priced wines they think you will buy to give as presents. The release just after Christmas (when everyone is broke) is always the bargain lists. Dark in color with a mild nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some mild cherry notes (reminded me at first of more like a cab) along with rustic notes that start to build. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice tannins, dryness and acidity. The rustic notes linger nicely. It’s definitely not your typical pinot noir, but then Oregon always brings something unique to the table I would give it an 88 or so.

From the LCBO web site check LCBO stock:
Rock Point Pinot Noir 2015 —VINTAGES#: 463018
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
$17.95
Release Date:January 5, 2019
Alcohol/Vol 13.0% Made in: Oregon, USA By: Del Rio Vineyards, Llc Sugar Content: 3 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Pinot NoirDescriptionRock Point makes their Pinot partly in oak and partly in stainless steel to emphasize the fruit character. Expect ripe strawberry, red cherry and raspberry and pair with duck, roast beef or tourtière.

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Trius Brut

Posted on January 8, 2019 by John Galea

I was walking out of Longos just before New Years eve and they were sampling this bubbly. And one must have a bubbly to bring in the new year. Pale in color with a nice apple/pear nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice crisp apple/pear to match the nose along with some nice fine bubbles. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice dry crisp minerality. It went very nicely on it’s own for the start of what’s shaping up to be an awesome wine. I would give it an 88 or so …

From the LCBO web site Check stock:
Trius Brut VQA Sparkling — LCBO#: 284539
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Flavourful
Pale yellow gold colour; floral, brioche, citrus and green apple fruit aromas and some light toasty notes; dry, light-medium bodied, crisp balanced acidity, with tart apple, honey, lemon/citrus flavours and a long refreshing finish. $29.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Alcohol/Vol 12.5% Made in: Ontario, Canada By:Andrew Peller Limited Sugar Content:10 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:D – Dry Style:Medium-bodied & Flavourful Varietal:Sparkling This is a VQA wine

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Monte del Frà Lena di Mezzo Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2015

Posted on January 4, 2019 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice juicy red berries. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice firm tannins and acidity. Quite a nice, varietal ripasso, I would give it an 88-89. We paired it with a steak and it went really well and held it’s own well! Sorry to be a little slow on posts, busy holiday period!

From the LCBO web site Check LCBO stock:
Monte del Frà Lena di Mezzo Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2015
Corvina/Rondinella
—VINTAGES#: 165662 | 750 mL bottle
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Monte del Frà Lena di Mezzo Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2015
STYLE – Full-bodied & Smooth
A very pretty nose of dried lavender, rose petals and sweet morello cherries. Medium to full body, lots of tension, fine acidity and a minerally, driven finish. Drink now. Score – 92. (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Oct. 20, 2017) $22.95

PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:December 8, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 14.0% Made in: Veneto, Italy By: Monte Del Fra Sugar Content:7 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:D – Dry Style: Full-bodied & Smooth

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2017 G. Marquis Chard

Posted on December 22, 2018 by John Galea

I’ve previously reviewed both the 2014 and 2016 vintages of this wine and been impressed. I was grabbing the pinot so grabbed the chard at the same time. Slightly golden in color with a nice apple/pear nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with rich apple and pear notes along with some nice vanilla and butterscotch. On the medium length finish the wine is nice and dry and the apple and pear linger nicely. The LCBO say full bodied and rich, I whole heartedly agree. I would give it an 88+. Very nice deal for the price. I paired it with pan fried cod and it was a lovely compliment to the subtle flavors of cod. Act now … limited time off $2 off!

G. Marquis The Silver Line Chardonnay — VINTAGES#: 258681
STYLE – Full-bodied & Rich
The Stone Road Vineyard’s soil warms quickly and holds heat during the day, yet cools just as quickly at night. This assists in ripening the grapes while maintaining freshness and preventing the development of unbalanced flavours making this wine possible. A wealth of buttered toast, pineapple, peach, toast and oak spice. Perfect for grilled pork or chicken.
$15.95 WAS $17.95 SAVE $2.00 Limited Time Offer Until January 6, 2019
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:April 3, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 12.3% Made in: Ontario, Canada By: Magnotta Winery Sugar Content:5 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style: Full-bodied & Rich Varietal:Chardonnay Description: The Stone Road Vineyard’s soil warms quickly and holds heat during the day, yet cools just as quickly at night. This assists in ripening the grapes while maintaining freshness and preventing the development of unbalanced flavours, making this wine possible. A wealth of buttered toast, pineapple, peach, toast and oak spice. Perfect for grilled pork or chicken.This is a VQA wine

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2015 Buried Hope Cabernet Sauvignon

Posted on December 20, 2018 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some vibrant cherries to match the nose along with some mocha. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice smooth tannins and acidity and a hint of pepper. This is definitely a fruit forward wine, the LCBO say full bodied and smooth, I’d agree. I would give it an 88+. Quite nice and quite food friendly.

From the LCBO web site http://www.lcbo.com/lcbo/product/sku/356113.html:
Buried Hope Cabernet Sauvignon — LCBO#: 356113
STYLE – Full-bodied & Smooth
Deep garnet colour; intense aromas and flavours of cassis, blackberry fruit, oak, chocolate and vanilla; ripe, soft and juicy on the palate. $19.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Alcohol/Vol 14.5% Made in: California, USA By: Pernod Ricard Winemakers Pty Ltd Sugar Content:4 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra Dry

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Stadt Krems Grüner Veltliner 2016

Posted on December 17, 2018 by John Galea

Pale in color with a nice crisp minerally nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice crisp dry honeysuckle notes. This reminds me a lot of a crisp dry Riesling. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice crisp dry minerality along with some nice acidity. This is a super food friendly wine with the acidity to cut through cheesy dishes. We paired it with Fettucine carbonara and it went well. Held it’s own without overpowering the meal. I would give it an -88.

From the LCBO web site Check stock.:
Stadt Krems Grüner Veltliner 2016 — VINTAGES#: 295626
STYLE – Aromatic & Flavourful
A touch of yeast and sage emerges amidst lime peel scents on the nose of this wine. The palate reinforces those flavors, while white pepper and lime notes tingle around the edges. It’s lean but concentrated and finishes with such a clean and refreshing zip that you just want to sip more. Score – 91. (Anne Krebiehl, MW, Wine Enthusiast, July 1, 2017) $18.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:November 24, 2018
Alcohol/Vol12.5% Made in: Kremstal, Austria By:Sc Dulon Sugar Content:4 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Aromatic & Flavourful Varietal: Grüner Veltliner

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Feudo Montoni Lagnusa Nero D’Avola 2015

Posted on December 11, 2018 by John Galea

I had this one recommended to me by a colleague … Thanks Semion! I don’t know the Nero D’Avola grape well so had no idea what to expect. Inky dark in color with a mild black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose in spades with big bold rich black berries, almost blueberries. Immediately there’s noticable silky/velvety tannins and some nice mocha notes shining through. This is a mouthful of yummy in a glass. On the medium length finish the wine displays some lovely tannins and acidity, nice and dry. The complexity of the wine in the mouth is impressive. Lots of layers of flavors. Oh my is this a big bold beautiful wine. I would give it a 89-90. Very nice. I paired it with a striploin steak and it held it’s own without a problem, but paired even better with the chocolate chip cookie I finished the meal with. Every decent meal ends with some form of chocolate does it? 🙂

From the LCBO web site Check LCBO stock:
Feudo Montoni Lagnusa Nero D’Avola 2015 — VINTAGES#: 523738
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
Bright red-ruby. Perfumed nose of violets and plum. Then silky tannins nicely frame the ripe, suave red and blue fruit flavors which showcase lovely inner-mouth perfume. Closes very long with outstanding delineation, delightful acid-fruit-tannin balance, and penetrating violet nuances. A knockout Vigna Lagnusa, one of the best vintages of this wine ever. Drinking window: 2017-2024. Score – 94. (Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, June 2017) $23.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:November 10, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 13.2%Made in: Sicily, Italy By: Feudo Montoni Sugar Content:3 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle: Medium-bodied & Fruity Varietal:Nero d’Avola

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2016 G. Marquis Pinot Noir

Posted on December 8, 2018 by John Galea

I’ve had this wine for a couple of vintages now and been impressed with it, quite good, I last wrote up the 2014 vintage. It’s made by Magnotta and G. Marquis is a premium label for them. Garnet in color with a nice strawberry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays nice firm strawberry and red berries notes to match the nose. On the medium length finish the wine has some firm tannins, nice acidity and nice dryness. This is quite a good pinot, a perfect pairing for any poultry. I would give it an 88 or so.

From the LCBO web site.
G. Marquis The Silver Line Pinot Noir — VINTAGES#: 258673
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity $19.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:April 3, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 12.5% Made in: Ontario, Canada By: Magnotta Winery Sugar Content:7 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style: Medium-bodied & Fruity Varietal: Pinot Noir Description: The G. Marquis vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to carefully tended 25-year-old Pinot vines. This wine offers complex notes of red cherry, raspberry, mineral and smoke. Elegant and structured, it’s a good match for mushroom risotto.This is a VQA wine.

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Sutherland Pinot Noir 2015

Posted on December 6, 2018 by John Galea

Garnet in color with a strawberry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays strawberries to match the nose. On the lighter side of medium length in finish the wine displays some gentle tannins and acidity along with some mocha notes. This is a slightly lighter pinot but still spot on varietal. Very nice. This was number two we paired with the cornish hen. I would give it an 88 or so.

From the LCBO web site:
Sutherland Pinot Noir 2015 — VINTAGES#: 624924
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity
Healthy medium cherry-red. Cranberry, raspberry, herbs and earth on the nose; aeration brought some darker cherry and forest floor notes. A juicy, leanish midweight, with good penetration to its red berry, herb and spice flavors. More about aromatics than weight -which is no complaint! Nicely delineated, fresh Pinot with brisk acidity and a light touch. Finishes with a fine dusting of dryish tannins and subtle length. Drinking window: 2017-2021. Score – 88. (Stephen Tanzer, vinous.com, May 2017) $19.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:October 27, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 13.8% Made in: Elgin, South Africa By: Thelema Mountain Vineyards (Pty) Lt Sugar Content:3 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Medium-bodied & Fruity

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Pazo das Bruxas Albariño 2016

Posted on December 1, 2018 by John Galea

Pale in color with a nice crisp nose with some nice citrus coming through. On the mid palate it matches the nose with nice crisp dry minerality along with some nice lime notes. On the medium length in finish the wine displays some lively acidity. A super food friendly well made Albarino that would hold up well to fatty or even spicy foods. We paired it with a seafood stir fry with hoisen sauce and it went well having no issues cutting through sauce without issue but still not overwhelming the food. I would give it an 88 or so.

From the LCBO web site:
Pazo das Bruxas Albariño 2016 — VINTAGES#: 417667
STYLE – Aromatic & Flavourful
Pazo das Bruxas takes its name from Galician folklore. It is said that in the vast forests of Galicia witches lived in old country houses (pazos) where they would connect with nature to obtain the best fruits from it…Look for a fresh, almost skinny white, with an aromatic (think sauvignon) bent. Bitter melon, green and yellow apples and Asian pears mark the palate along with crunchy acidity, lees and grass. The finish is fresh and clean with almonds and mineral notes. Best with shellfish, especially west coast oysters. Score – 88. (Anthony Gismondi, gismondionwine.com, Nov. 27, 2017)
$16.75
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:August 4, 2018
Alcohol/Vol12.5% Made in: Rias Baixas, Spain By: Familia Torres Sugar Content: 2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Aromatic & Flavourful Varietal:White Blend

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Cloudline Pinot Noir 2017

Posted on November 29, 2018 by John Galea

Garnet in color with a nice red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with nice strawberry and raspberry notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice soft tannins and lively acidity. This is definitely more of a fruit forward robust pinot. It’s nice and dry. I would give it an 88+. We paired it with cornish hen and it went very well.

From the LCBO web site Check LCBO stock:
Cloudline Pinot Noir 2017 — VINTAGES#: 159970
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Fruity $25.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:October 27, 2018
Alcohol/Vol13.5% Made in: Oregon, USA By: Domaine Drouhin Oregon Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Medium-bodied & Fruity Varietal: Pinot Noir Description: The Drouhin family of Burgundy fame know a thing or two about great Pinot Noir. So impressed were they by the Willamette Valley’s potential for Pinot that they started this winery there. Expect a sleek, elegant wine showing bright red berry fruit and earthy shading, and pour it alongside roasted beetroot salad with goat cheese.

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13th Street Cuvée Brut Rosé

Posted on November 26, 2018 by John Galea

I have to admit, I’m not a fan of Rosé … and even less of a fan of a sparkling Rosé but I had this one at a wine tasting and was impressed. Recently I had a little dinner party, ya I know your invite got lost in the mail 🙂 and decided to choose this wine to kick off the the evening … so I guess … spoiler alert … I liked it. Typical Rosé in color with a nice crisp dry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice crisp dry notes to match the nose along with some nice red berry notes. The wine is a blend of pinot noir and chardonnay. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice smooth tannins and acidity. This is a super food friendly wine with a nice bite capable of holding up to the appetizers I was serving including even blue cheeses. I would give the wine an 88 or so. Quite nice, but not cheap …

From the LCBO web site Check stock.:
13th Street Cuvée Brut Rosé — VINTAGES#: 147504
STYLE – Medium-bodied & Flavourful $27.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:April 3, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 12.5% Made in:Ontario, Canada By: Thirteenth Street Wine Corp.Sugar Content:12 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:D – DryStyle:Medium-bodied & Flavourful Varietal:Sparkling – Dry Description Since creating their first in 1998, 13th Street’s sparkling wines have been one of their great strengths. Dry with a bright acidity and a creamy mousse, the Brut Rosé offers red fruit and mineral tones. Perfect as an aperitif or with smoked salmon.

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2016 Sargent Canyon Cab sauv (mini review)

Posted on November 23, 2018 by John Galea

Dark in color with a lovely rich fruit forward nose of cherries. On the mid palate it spot on matches the nose with nice rich cherry notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice smooth tannins. This is quite a nice, food friendly, fruit forward Cali cab. I would give it an 88 or so. Sadly, not in the LCBO but available from TheCaseforWine for $18.95 in cases of 12.

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2017 Novas Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc Organic

Posted on November 21, 2018 by John Galea

Pale in color with a crisp nice citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice citrus, and pink grapefruit notes to match the nose. On the medium length finish the wine display lovely dryness, and acidity. Without food the wine’s lively acidity dances on the tongue building nicely. With food it is less pronounced. This is a beautiful food friendly wine. Nice crisp, dry and bold just how I like them. I would give it an -88 or so. It was one of the standouts from the recent Chilean wine fest held at the ROM, so I searched around and found a bottle to do a deeper dive. We paired it with pan fried steak, kidney and mushroom, and it held up well. Lots of depth. Very nice indeed. The LCBO say Aromatic and Falvorful … I agree totally.

From the LCBO web site Check stock:
Novas Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc Organic — LCBO#: 553800
STYLE – Aromatic & Flavourful
Award winning, organic wine from Chile. In the glass it’s a pale lemon in colour and exhibits aromas and flavours of lemon, grapefruit and stone fruit with herbal tones. The palate is dry and medium-bodied with active acidity leading to a crisp, clean finish. Enjoy with lightly herbed chicken alongside ripe mango salad. $15.90
PRODUCT DETAILS
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in: San Antonio Valley, Chile By: Vinedos Emiliana S.A.Sugar Content:2 g/L Sweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra Dry

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José Pariente Verdejo 2016

Posted on November 19, 2018 by John Galea

Pale in color with a nose with lots of minerality coming through. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with some nice crisp dry citrus, maybe even grapfruit coming through and lots of minerality. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice vibrant and acidity and the citrus notes linger a bit. This is a lovely dry food friendly wine, a really lovely example of a Verdejo. I would give it an 88 or so … The LCBO say Full bodied and rich … huh, odd description.

From the LCBO web site Check LCBO stock:
José Pariente Verdejo 2016 — VINTAGES#: 345058
José Pariente Verdejo 2016
STYLE – Full-bodied & Rich
Pungent aromas of lime skin, ruby red grapefruit, nectarine, and a pleasant touch of celery seed combine to create a complex nose to this zippy wine. The palate is rich and contains more citrus flavors with ample acidity for a bright finish. Excellent. Highly Recommended. Score – 90. (Ultimate Wine Challenge, 2017) $19.95
PRODUCT DETAILS
Release Date:October 27, 2018
Alcohol/Vol 13.5% Made in: Rueda, Spain By: Bodegas Jose Pariente Sugar Content:5 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: XD – Extra Dry Style:Full-bodied & Rich

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