Canadian Wine Guy

Château la Tour de l’Évêque Rosé 2020

Posted on February 1, 2022 by John Galea

Salmon in color with a mild nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some vibrant, tart, cranberry like flavors. On the mid palate the wine displays some bright vibrant acidity, quite refreshing and it lingers nicely on the palate. No my favorite Rose, but quite nice none the less. We paired it with a bacon quiche … I would give it an 87-88, from the LCBO web site, check stock;

Rosé

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 319392$19.95 (0)Write a Review

This intriguing Vintages customer favourite is a blend of red and white varieties; the 2019 vintage featured Cinsault, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Ugni Blanc and Rolle. It’s always a sunny, bright wine with a zesty, berry-and-citrus-driven character that works with a range of foods. Try it with a Sante Fe corn salad, grilled chicken kebabs or a grilled pizza.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:July 10, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Provence, FranceBy:Chateau La Tour De L’EvequeSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & DryVarietal:Rosé

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2019 Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay

Posted on January 30, 2022 by John Galea

This is a long running, outstanding oaked chard that from time to time goes on sale, when it does, grab it, my bet, it will easily keep for a couple years. This one is pale/golden in color with a nice vibrant nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some lovely buttery, rich, caramel flavors along with some apple and pear. On the medium length in finish the wine displays some nice crisp, dry, vibrant acidity and oak notes. This is a lovely, smooth, elegant oaked chard, not overdone, to my tastes … Yumm. I would give it an 88+. We paired it with pan friedn scallops and it was heavenly. From the LCBO web site, check stock;

750 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 fresh fig, nuts, floral lift, pear and vanilla. Try with char-grilled corn on the cob, or with grilled chicken.READ MORE. SCREEN READERS, CONTENT WILL APPEAR ABOVE THIS CONTROL.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:April 1, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:California, USABy:Jackson Family Wines IncSugar Content:7 g/LStyle:Full-bodied & Rich

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Château Bel Air Perponcher Réserve 2018

Posted on January 26, 2022 by John Galea

Inky dark in color with a nice black berry and cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine packs a punch with black berries and cherries to match the nose along with some strong spicy notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some peppery notes, and firm acidity, super dry. This wine is a bit young, I won’t say it’s harsh, but close. Some time in a decanter might help. I would give it an 87-88 … If you buy it, I would recommend waiting at least a year or more. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Cabernet Franc

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 21283$21.95 (0)Write a Review

Château Bel Air Perponcher Réserve 2018 from LCBO

The Despagne family has resided in Entre-Deux-Mers for over 200 years. Situated between Bordeaux’s famous waterways the Garonne and the Dordogne, the region is best known for its white wines, but it’s also home to excellent reds such as this Merlot-based blend. Look for dark cherry, blackcurrant and cedar notes and pair with herbed roast beef or lamb.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:December 11, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Bordeaux, FranceBy:DespagneSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Cabernet Franc

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Château Mirambeau Papin 2016

Posted on January 21, 2022 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with dark berries along with some noticeable oak nots, especially fresh out of the bottle. On the medium length finish the dark dark berries linger nicely along with some mocha notes and smooth, dusty tannins, and nice acidity that coat the mouth. This is a lovely entry level Bordeaux superiore for a reasonable price. I won’t rush out and grab a case but it’s nice none the less. We paired it with LCBO slow cooker lamb shanks and it went well! from the lcbo web site, check stock:

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 435651$22.95WE90 (0)Write a Review

In this ripe, spicy wine, solid tannins back up berry flavors. This wine is intended for aging, with its tannins and fruit density. Drink from 2022. Editors’ Choice. Score – 90. (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 31, 2018)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:December 11, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13%Made In:Bordeaux, FranceBy:Nath. Johnston & FilsSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & Fruity

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Ardal Crianza 2014

Posted on January 13, 2022 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays black cherries, firm oak notes along with some mocha. On the medium length finish the wine displays some with some strong peppery notes, dusty tannins and firm acidity … super dry. This is more of an edgy wine, not subtle. We paired it with a filet mignon and it was a little large for it. I would give it an -88 … Classic Crianza. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Tempranillo/Cabernet Sauvignon

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 167601$23.95WE915.0 (1)Write a Review

This black-colored crianza delivers big, toasty aromas of charred oak, setting the stage for a massive palate, the equivalent of an 18-wheeler. Blackened flavors of burnt wood, coffee and berry fruit lead to a smacking tannic finish. Drink date: 2020-2025. Score – 91. (Michael Schachner, Wine Enthusiast, Sept. 1, 2017)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:December 11, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:14%Made In:Ribera del Duero, SpainBy:Bodegas BalbásSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & FirmVarietal:Tempranillo/Cabernet Sauvignon

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Lundy Manor Lundy Red 2016

Posted on January 10, 2022 by John Galea

I’ve seen this winery mentioned a number of times in LCBO releases and wondered, well this time my curiosity got the better of me. The blend looks good, g/l look inviting to so I jumped … Spoiler alert … DON’T … Dark in color with a sweet dried cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine matches the nose with kit wine level refinement and sweetness that at a $12 price point would be expected, but at this price point … Wines that I feel are very notable earn a yum rating, ya this is so isn’t that and this would earn a YUCK rating. I had filet mignon on the menu for dinner and when I opened this, ya that wasn’t happening, I put the cork back on and opened a different bottle. And to add insult to injury I had a sneezing fit, a statement of high sulphite levels in the wine. If I had more I would return EVERY ONE of them. From the LCBO web site, ya not even going to give you the link it’s that bad.

Red Blend

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 21656$21.95 (0)Write a Review

This is a Cabernet Franc-led wine, with Merlot, Syrah and Petit Verdot rounding out the blend. It was aged in a combination of French and American oak and is an aromatic, fruity wine, with cherry, plum, vanilla, and a dash of baking spice.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:November 13, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Ontario, CanadaBy:Lundy Manor Wine CellarSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & SmoothVarietal:Red Blend

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Murphy-Goode Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Posted on January 5, 2022 by John Galea

This wine has long been a fav of mine since first encountering it at Reds … Ruby in color with a nice inviting red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice crisp dry dark cherry notes, definitely more of a fruit forward style, but not a fruit bomb. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice crisp acidity and soft tannins. Definitely more of drink now style of wine that can easily be paired with softer flavored foods. We paired it with quiche and it went well. There isn’t even a hint of herbal, or minty notes that I don’t care for in some cabs. I would give it an -88, yum. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Cabernet Sauvignon Blend

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 427542$24.955.0 (2)Write a Review

This juicy, fresh wine reflects an easygoing, ripe, approachable style that has wide popular appeal. The dark fruit, cassis and herbs are framed by vanilla, spice, and moderately employed oak that adds some toast but keeps the fruit at the fore. The balance and juicy character will make it a fine option for stews or roasted meats.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:December 11, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:California, USABy:Jackson Family Wines IncSugar Content:6 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & SmoothVarietal:Cabernet Sauvignon Blend

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Zenato San Benedetto Lugana 2020

Posted on January 3, 2022 by John Galea

Pale straw in color with a minerally nose … On the mid palate the wine delivers beautifully crisp minerally and citrus notes that gently coat the palate. On the medium length finish the vibrant acidity lives on nicely. This wine does not taste anywhere near as sweet as the 7g/l would imply. Super food friendly, a delicous wine, yum, I would give it an -88. Quite nice. from the LCBO web site, check stock: This wine is 100% Trebbiano di Lugana. Winery’s information …

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 707158$19.95JS924.0 (1)Write a Review

Pleasant aromas and flavors of apples and pears with some fresh herbs, flowers and minerals. A full-bodied white with a rich vein of ripe fruit all the way through to the end. Delicious. Drink now. Score – 92. (jamessuckling.com, June 2, 2021)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:December 11, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13%Made In:Veneto, ItalyBy:Azienda Vinicola ZenatoSugar Content:7 g/LSweetness Descriptor:D – DryStyle:Aromatic & Flavourful

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Lily Sparkling Rosé VQA

Posted on January 1, 2022 by John Galea

Slightly pale salmon in color a nice minerally nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice crisp minerality along with some light citrus notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice vibrant acidity, crisp dryness, some creaminess and citrus. This is a nice simple bubbly for a reasonable price. I would give it an -88 which for the price is good … This is a Colio Estates wine from the Lake Erie region. In spite of this being 15g/l in residual sugar, you don’t get a lot of sweetness, and in spite of this being a Riesling blend, I don’t get any honeysuckle. From the LCBO web site, check stock.

750 mL bottle | LCBO#: 536565$16.95~~$17.95~~ Save $1.00 Limited Time Offer
Until January 2, 2022 (0)Write a Review

Lily Sparkling Rosé is pale pink, with a bead of fine bubbles. Delightful floral, grapefruit, brioche and fresh berry and red fruit aromas and flavours are wrapped in an elegant, creamy texture. Subtle toasty and freshly-baked bread notes round out the finish. Superb with savoury crepes, salads or freshly picked berries.

PRODUCT DETAILS

750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12%Made In:Ontario, CanadaBy:Colio Wines Of Canada Ltd.Sugar Content:16 g/LSweetness Descriptor:D – DryStyle:Light & Fruity

from the Winery’s web site:

Sparkling Rosé VQA

Fresh, elegant and balanced

Expressive flavours reminiscent of whipped cream on top of fresh strawberries and raspberries. Fresh, elegant and balanced.

PAIRINGS

Pair with smoked salmon filled crepes, strawberry and spinach salad with goat cheese or a bowl of freshly-picked berries.

DETAILS

VQA Designation: Ontario
Blend: Riesling, Cabernet Franc
Alcohol Content: 12.0%
Fermentation: Charmat Method
Aging: Stainless steel
Residual Sugar: 15g/L
Sugar Code: 2
Size: 750mL

AVAILABLE AT

Colio Retail Boutiques, LCBO, Metro and Loblaws.

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Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir 2018

Posted on December 30, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a beautiful soft red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some lovely elegant raspberries and strawberries, along with some oak notes, spot on varietal. On the medium length finish the wine follows the fruit up immediately with some big bold spicy notes, pepper and the like. There’s noticeably hot alcohol and acidity, this wine might still be a little young … decanting softened it noticeably. I would give it an 88+, from the LCBO web site, check stock:

Pinot Noir

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 652883$59.95WE945.0 (2)Write a Review

Plush aromas of black cherry, baked strawberry, caramel and vanilla make for a rich, inviting nose. There’s a hearty texture to the palate, yet freshness remains intact, with a ripe boysenberry flavor that’s accented by licorice and fennel pollen. Score – 94. (Matt Kettman, Wine Enthusiast, Oct. 1, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:October 2, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:14.5%Made In:California, USABy:Joseph J. WagnerSugar Content:9 g/LSweetness Descriptor:D – DryStyle:Full-bodied & SmoothVarietal:Pinot Noir

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Stefano Farina Le Bocce Chianti Classico 2016

Posted on December 24, 2021 by John Galea

On behalf of Brett and myself, I would like to say Merry Christmas, and Seasons greetings to all!

Dark in color with a nice cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice bright cherry notes along with some tomato … On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice dry tannins, mocha and nice acidity. I would give it an 88 or so, quite a nice chianti classico, yum. I went back and grabbed more, a lovely Chianti classico. From the LCBO web site, check stock;

Sangiovese/Canaiolo

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 279745$22.95DWWA95 (0)Write a Review

Stefano Farina Le Bocce Chianti Classico 2016 from LCBO

95% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo. Pure, crunchy, rich and developed, imbued with fleshy, ripe cherries and dried red currant, bolstered by alluring, savoury tones of balsamic vinegar, dry forest floor and herb-coated cured meats. Score – 95. (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:August 21, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Tuscany, ItalyBy:Tenute Stefano Farina SrlSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Sangiovese/Canaiolo

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Pighin Pinot Grigio 2020

Posted on December 20, 2021 by John Galea

Terroni’s restaurant in Toronto introduced me to Friuli wines, crisp dry, food friendly wines, so when ones come on the vintages list I give them a look. This one is 100% Pinot Grigio, which in general, I am not a fan … pale straw in color with a mild citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some citrus and minerally notes best appreciated without food, this is definitely a milder wine, so you will need to be careful what you serve it with to appreciate the subtle flavors. On the medium length finish the wine is nice and dry with the minerality and citrus sticking to the tongue, again more noticeably without food. I would give this wine an -88. Not bad at all … From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Pinot Grigio

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 987545$18.95JS905.0 (2)Write a Review

Lightly honeyed floral notes follow through to a medium body with spicy pear-drop flavors and a touch of salt in the aftertaste. Plenty of flavor and interest. Drink now. Score – 90. (jamessuckling.com, April 6, 2021)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:December 11, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12.5%Made In:Friuli, ItalyBy:Fratelli PighinSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Aromatic & FlavourfulVarietal:Pinot Grigio

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Mazzei Ser Lapo Riserva Chianti Classico 2018

Posted on December 17, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays rich vibrant cherry notes along with some beautiful mocha and chocolate notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice peppery notes and some oak along with cherry lingering and coating the palate. This is a beautiful Chianti Classic Reserva, and unlike some, is NOT over oaked. I would give this an 88 or so … Yumm! Probably go back and get more, it’s work the price. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Sangiovese Blend

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 288530$23.95GN96+3.5 (2)Write a Review

Mazzei Ser Lapo Riserva Chianti Classico 2018 from LCBO

An intense, touching and firm Riserva, a milestone for the DOCG. Sangiovese ‘with a little help’ of Merlot, the nose reveals a velvety texture of small red fruits, currant, then cinnamon and a touch of Mediterranean scrub. The mouthfeel is thick, full-bodied, with iodized tannins and a small red fruitsweet spice aftertaste. [Will drink into the 2030s.] Score – 96+. (gardininotes.com, June 2021)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:December 11, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Tuscany, ItalyBy:Marchesi Mazzei S.R.L.Sugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & FirmVarietal:Sangiovese Blend

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Jean-Ernest Descombes Morgon 2018

Posted on December 15, 2021 by John Galea

Biases up front, I’m really not a fan of most Niagara, and even Ontario gamay noirs, they are too much more of a noveau style with fruit forward, and sweetness being dominant. I’ve been schooled before about some serious Gamays from France so when this popped on the vintages list I gave it a try. Dark in color with a mild black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice black fruits. On the medium length in finish the wine displays some vibrant peppery notes, acidity and softer tannins, nice and dry almost dusty … This is definitely not the fruit bomb some Gamays are and is more of a serious wine. We paired it with meat spaghetti and I can’t say it was a match made in heaven but it went ok. I would give it an -88 or so, not a bad wine, and I always enjoy variety but not an amazing wine for my palate, I might have had a different opinion with a different food pairing. from the LCBO web site, check stock:

Gamay

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 946186$23.95JS94 (0)Write a Review

Jean-Ernest Descombes Morgon 2018 from LCBO

Pretty aromas of strawberries, flowers and hints of dust follow through to a full body that is compact and tight with very vibrant acidity. Flavorful finish. One of the best ever. Drink now [through 2025+]. Score – 94. (jamessuckling.com, Feb. 20, 2020).

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:December 11, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Beaujolais, FranceBy:Georges DuboeufSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Light-bodied & FruityVarietal:Gamay

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Longford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Posted on December 13, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a nice black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some vibrant black fruits, black cherry, blackberry and the like. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice spicy, peppery notes along with some edgy tannins. There’s some tobacco and mocha notes as well. The wine is a bit young, some breathing wouldn’t hurt. It’s quite dry, but not as dry as I would expect with 3g/l … Not a bad cab for the money, but not one of my favs either. I won’t be running back for more, but enjoyed it anyway … I would give it an -88 or so … from the LCBO web site, check stock:

Cabernet Sauvignon

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 20725$18.95 (0)Write a Review

In Monterey County, foggy mornings, plentiful sunshine and a long growing season allow for the development of fruit with great ripeness and intensity. This Cabernet gracefully shows off the elegance and generous, bright fruit tones for which the area is so loved. A wine that will enhance mid-week dining but has the substance and character for a more formal evening featuring grilled lamb.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:October 16, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:California, USABy:Scheid Vineyards California IncSugar Content:3 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & FirmVarietal:Cabernet Sauvignon

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Lornano Chianti Classico 2016

Posted on December 7, 2021 by John Galea

Inky dark in color with a strong dominant woody nose. On the mid palate there are some nice black cherry notes backed up almost immediately by oak notes along with some mocha/coffee. On the medium length finish the wine displays some strong peppery notes along with some black berries, nice and dry with some firm tannins. There’s noticeable alcohol heat to the wine. I would give this an 87-88, not a bad Chianti classico, but not one of my favs. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 211599$19.95JS925.0 (1)Write a Review

A fresh, fruity red with aromas and flavors of dark berries and cherries. Medium to full body, firm, silky tannins and a bright, beautiful finish. Drink or hold. Score – 92. (jamessuckling.com, Nov. 7, 2019)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:September 18, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:14%Made In:Tuscany, ItalyBy:Riolite Vin S.R.L.Sugar Content:3 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Sangiovese

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Curvos Loureiro 2020

Posted on December 5, 2021 by John Galea

I’ve previously had a Alveleda that was a blend of Loureiro and Alvarinho so I was curious who brought what to the table so decided to try this one … It’s 100% Louriero. On the nose there are some mild flinty notes along with some distinct minerality. On the mid palate the wine displays some vibrant green apple notes along with a hint of almost honey suckle. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice vibrant acidity and citrus notes that coat the palate. For the price this is not a bad wine, but I think the Alvarinho adds a nice degree of complexity and think I prefer it. I would give this an -88 … From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Loureiro

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 471284$13.95 (0)Write a Review

‘Loureiro’ is Portuguese for ‘laurel’ and is a nod to the grape’s evergreen and floral aromas. An ensemble player in Vinho Verde, it’s seldom seen as a single varietal. This crisp, lively wine has deftly expressed white flower notes, plus snappy citrus that makes it ideal for appetizers of all sorts and a gem for a chilled plate of oysters.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:November 13, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12%Made In:Vinho Verde, PortugalBy:Quinta De Curvos – Sociedade AgricoSugar Content:5 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Light & CrispVarietal:Loureiro

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2020 Quinta da Aveleda Vinho Verde

Posted on December 2, 2021 by John Galea

Pale straw in color with a crisp dry minerally nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice lime notes along with some crisp dry minerality to match the nose. On the medium length finish the citrus/lime notes and acidity linger nicely. This is a super food friendly wine. I would give it an -88 which for the price is a bargain, it’s in the general list and is a similar blend of grapes seen on the Maria Papoila I previously reviewed but at a lower price point, Loureiro/Alvarinho. It’s worth noting they changed the bottle, I thought they had stopped carrying this wine, I guess not. From the LCBO web site, check stock.

750 mL bottle | LCBO#: 89995$13.00 (0)Write a Review

Pale lemon yellow with green highlights; aromas of nuts, grapefruit and herbs; extra dry, fresh and lively, with a slight spritz, steely mineral notes as well as flavours of lime, herbs and a cleansing touch of yeast on the finish.

PRODUCT DETAILS

750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:11%Made In:PortugalBy:Sociedade Agricola E. ComercialSugar Content:5 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Light & Crisp

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Marcel Cabelier Vieilles Vignes Chardonnay 2015

Posted on November 30, 2021 by John Galea

Slightly golden in color with a smokey/flinty nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some mild apple notes along with smokey/flinty notes to match the nose. There’s also some noticeable woody notes, oak etc. On the medium length finish the wine is dominated by flinty notes and vibrant acidity. I would give it an 87-88, not a terrible wine, but it won’t be replacing ANY of my favs, especially at this price … From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Chardonnay

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 485839$21.95WAL89 (0)Write a Review

This is a seldom seen chardonnay from Jura, a sub-alpine region known for firm traditional, somewhat oxidative wines from chardonnay and other white varieties. Fans of fino sherry will approve of this mature example. It pours medium gold. The nose is very nutty, toasty, cedary and vaguely musty, with some baked apple and lemon tucked below the surface. It is medium weight, firm with riveting yet balanced acidity at its core. Impressive structure and excellent length. I would try this as an aperitif white accompanying strong washed rind cheeses, nuts and olives. Score – 89. (David Lawrason, winealign.com, Dec. 29, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:August 21, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12.5%Made In:Jura, FranceBy:Les Grands Chais De FranceSugar Content:2 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Light & CrispVarietal:Chardonnay

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2020 Winzer Krems Gruner Veltliner 13

Posted on November 27, 2021 by John Galea

I love Gruners and pounce on them anytime I get a chance (insuring that they are low in sugar content which most are). I was walking through the LCBO and this one leapt out into my pocket and I had no choice but to take it home with me (after paying for it of course:) ). Pale straw in color with a nice crisp minerally/citrus nose. On the mid palate the wine has a hint of effervescence along some lovely minerality and zesty citrus notes to match the nose, nice and dry just the way I like them. On the medium length finish the vibrant acidity and citrus notes dance on the tongue. This is a lovely, food friendly, varietal gruner, I would give it an -88 which for the price is a bargain. Grab more while you can, a definite yum! From the LCBO web site, check stock:

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 375022$13.955.0 (2)Write a Review

>(V) Winzer Krems Gruner Veltliner 13 from LCBO

PRODUCT DETAILS

750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12%Made In:Kremstal, AustriaBy:Winzer Krems EgSugar Content:3 g/LStyle:Light & Crisp

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Niro di Citra Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2017

Posted on November 25, 2021 by John Galea

Dark in color with a mild cherry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice varietal black cherry notes along with some nice mocha and coffee. On the medium length finish the wine displays some vibrant acidity along with some nice smooth velvety tannins, nice and dry. We paired this with a red sauce pasta and it went well, but without food the palate coating richness of this wine is even more prominent. This wine definitely punches above it’s price point, it’s a bargain and yum to boot. I’ve give it an 88 or so. From the LCBO web site, check stock, I’ll definitely go back and grab more!:

Montepulciano

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 278150$16.954.7 (3)Write a Review

Made from 100% Montepulciano, this is a dense, concentrated wine, with juicy cherry and plum fruit, vanilla, anise and coffee notes along with brilliant, food-friendly acidity. Perfect for smoked sausages or a meaty pizza or pasta dish.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:November 13, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.5%Made In:Abruzzo, ItalyBy:CitraSugar Content:7 g/LSweetness Descriptor:D – DryStyle:Medium-bodied & FruityVarietal:Montepulciano

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Quails’ Gate Rosé 2020

Posted on November 22, 2021 by John Galea

Pale salmon in color with a mild nose. On the mid palate the wine displays crisp dry minerality, some red fruits, mild strawberry and the like. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice crisp citrus and minerality along with a hint of tartness, like cranberry. Not a bad Rose, -88 or so. Won’t be displacing my favs, but nice anyway. From the LCBO website, check stock:

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 275842$19.95

Based in the Okanagan Valley, Quails’ Gate is owned by the Stewart family and has been family farmed for three generations. The 2020 vintage of their pink wine is based on Gamay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and was given four hours of skin-contact time after harvest. Expect easygoing red fruit with hints of herbs and flowers, and pair with grilled chicken and beet greens.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:July 10, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13%Made In:British Columbia, CanadaBy:Quails’ Gate Vyds. Estate WinerySugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Easygoing & Fruity

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FRIND Big Red 2018

Posted on November 19, 2021 by John Galea

Inky dark in color with a smooth black berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some rich elegant black cherry notes along with some nice mocha and oak notes. On the medium length finish the wine displays some nice smooth well balanced acidity and tannins, nice and dry. This is a well made, elegant wine perfect for steak or other red meats. We had it with filet mignon and it was delicious. I would give this wine an 88+, definitely earns my yum factor! This is definitely more of a drink now style of wine. From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 19931$24.95JSC90 (0)Write a Review

This is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 12 months in French and American oak. The wine begins with aromas of black currant and blackberry. On the palate, flavours of black cherry and black currant mingle with a hint of vanilla. Score – 90. (johnschreiner.blogspot.com, Aug. 6, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:October 30, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:13.2%Made In:British Columbia, CanadaBy:Frind Winery LtdSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Full-bodied & SmoothVarietal:Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc

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Underwood Rosé 2020

Posted on November 14, 2021 by John Galea

Pale salmon in color with a nice soft red berry nose. On the mid palate the wine displays some nice strawberry notes along with some nice crisp tartness/acidity. On the medium length finish the wine displays some citrus based acidity that dances on the tongue. This is a nice smooth rose, there’s a hint of effervescence on the tongue. Try as I may I can’t find the grape used on this Rose, but it’s a nice wine. I would give it an -88 or so. We paired it with a bacon and cheddar gourmet burger and it went well, nicely cutting through the fat. from the LCBO web site, check stock.

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 19531$18.25 (0)Write a Review

This rosé comes from sites in the Willamette and Umpqua valleys and offers up great balance and a food-friendly, crisp character. There is considerable elegance here, along with floral, juicy citrus and tropical tones. A lip-smacking delight as a sipper, it will also be a fine match for summer salads or grilled seafood.READ MORE. SCREEN READERS, CONTENT WILL APPEAR ABOVE THIS CONTROL.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:July 24, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12%Made In:Oregon, USABy:Union Wine CompanySugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Easygoing & Fruity

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Orestiadi Grillo 2019

Posted on November 10, 2021 by John Galea

I first got introduced to this Sicilian grape at an Italian tasting and was intrigued, we don’t get a lot into the Ontario market so when I saw one, I grabbed it. Pale straw in color with a mild minerally nose. On the mid palate wine packs a flavorful punch with loads of citrus, floral notes, and palate coating minerality. On the medium length finish the wine’s minerality and acidity linger beautifully in the mouth especially without food, nice and dry! Wow this wine is delicous, I would give it an 88 which for the price is a great deal, yum. The LCBO say it’s Light and crisp, well they got one of two right, light? On what planet? From the LCBO web site, check stock:

Grillo

750 mL bottle | VINTAGES#: 348698$17.95LM91 (0)Write a Review

This Grillo opens with a white flower note accented by grapefruit citrus tones. It’s racy and lean, with zesty acidity, pear, citrus, and a delicate saline touch to the minerality. A great sipping wine, this will also be perfect for brunch or fish dinners.[Luca Maroni did not include a tasting note.] Score – 91. (lucamaroni.com, June 24, 2020)

PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date:October 30, 2021750 mL bottleAlcohol/Vol:12.5%Made In:Sicily, ItalyBy:Orestiadi SrlSugar Content:4 g/LSweetness Descriptor:XD – Extra DryStyle:Light & Crisp

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