World Wine Watch Jan 31, 2009

WORLD WINE WATCH (VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR  JANUARY 31, 2009
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing <deantudor@deantudor.com>
Always at www.deantudor.com since 1995. Also visit my "Wines, Beers and
Spirits of the Net Compendium", a guide to thousands of news items and
RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits.
My tastings are based on MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are
QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated
wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the
release for wine writers or product consultants. Also, some defective
or corked wines are not available for re-tasting.

 

WHITE WINES
^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Inniskillin Winemaker's Series Three Vineyards Chardonnay 2007
Niagara: balanced already, vanilla, apple, long finish. +105379,
$17.95, QPR: 89.
2. Hess Chardonnay 2006 Monterey: typical restaurant wine, nicely
compact with all you'd expect from Cal Chard. +986778, $19.95, QPR: 90
3. William Cole Mirador Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Casablanca:
excellent acidity and crisp finish for the price. +93948, $13.95, QPR:
91.
4. Kumkani Sauvignon Blanc 2007 Coastal South Africa: stressed out
sauvignon blanc, unbelievably herby and grassy. 14.5% ABV. +57539,
$14.95, QPR: 90.
5. Jean Geiler Gewurztraminer Reserve Particuliere 2007 Alsace:
finishes dry, very good MVC for Gewurz lovers. +106864, $17.95, QPR:
92.
6. Eugenio Collavini Sauvignon Blanc Fumat 2006 Collio Italy: body and
concentrated flavours. +93575, $16.95, QPR: 90.
 
RED WINES
^^^^^^^^^
1. Inniskillin Reserve Series Cabernet Franc 2006 Niagara: smoke and
herbs throughout, great finish. +91140, $18.75, QPR: 89.
2. Chakana Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Mendoza: soft North American style.
+663161, $13.95, QPR: 90
3. Canepa Reserva Privada Carmenere 2006 Rapel: wow factor is high at
this price. Full of juicy ripeness, black fruits. +82586, $13.95, QPR:
91.
4. Celestial Bay Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Margaret River: MVC typicity
for the region, Euro style, some dust. +77669, $19.95, QPR: 90.
5. Hungerford Hill Fishcage Shiraz/Viognier 2006 SEAustralia: twist
top, with syrah intensity and viognier floral. 14% ABV. +77958, $13.95,
QPR: 90.
6. Chateau La Gorce 2005 Medoc: nice juicy bottle for the cellar.
+91397, $19.94, QPR: 89.
7. Enzo de Sette Rue Nero d'Avola 2006 Sicilia: full and ripe, fleshy,
nice value. +101436, $12.95, QPR: 90.
8. Trecciano Chianti Colli Senesi Riserva 2005: volumes of sangiovese
flavours, some wood, fullish body. +86314, $19.95, QPR: 90.
9. Gamba Gnirega Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso Le Quare 2006:
intense dried fruit character. +94979, $17.95, QPR: 90.
10. Bodegas Juan Gil Monastrell 2007 Jumilla: very North American in
style. +94888, $14.95, QPR: 89.

 

VALUE: "RESTAURANT READY" or "BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE"
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10
markup over retail; the wines are ready to enjoy right now. Consumers
could buy and bring to those restaurants with corkage programs.
1. Gloria Ferrer Chardonnay 2005 Carneros, +83345, $26.95 retail.
2. Heggies Vineyard Chardonnay 2006 Eden Valley, +903559, $23.95.
3. Kim Crawford Kim's Favourite SP Chardonnay 2006 Gisborne, +90126,
$24.95.
4. Maison Champy Bourgogne Signature Chardonnay 2006, +43455, $22.95.
5. Saltram of Barossa Mamre Brook Shiraz 2005, +32227, $21.95.
6. Couly-Dutheil La Baronne Madeleine Chinon 2005, +57059, $21.95.
7. Delas Domaine des Grands Chemins Crozes-Hermitage 2006, +101105,
$28.95.
8. Montecillo Rioja Gran Reserva 2001, +239277, $31.95.

 

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

Ontario Vintages Releases for January 17, 2009

WORLD WINE WATCH (VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR  JANUARY 17, 2009
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing <deantudor@deantudor.com>
Always at www.deantudor.com since 1995. Also visit my "Wines, Beers and
Spirits of the Net Compendium", a guide to thousands of news items and
RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits.
My tastings are based on MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are
QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated
wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the
release for wine writers or product consultants. Also, some defective
or corked wines are not available for re-tasting.

 

WHITE WINES
^^^^^^^^^^^
1.Bonterra Sauvignon Blanc 2007 Lake & Mendocino Counties: typical MVC
of California SB, with fruit on mid-palate. Organic.  +86249, $17.95,
QPR: 90.
2.Bodega Lurton Reserva Chardonnay 2008 Argentina: light, 12.5% ABV,
twist top, French style. +591743, $14.95, QPR: 90.
3.J & F Lurton Flor de Torrontes 2007 Mendoza: good fruit, top notes
quickly get to you. +55475, $13.95, QPR: 90.
4.Parri Estate Viognier/Chardonnay 2007 Southern Fleurie Australia:
typically rich, with a citric finish from the Chardonnay (45%). 13%
ABV. +17319, $17.95, QPR: 90.
5.X & Y Chardonnay 2006 Margaret River: yummy, full body, still good
for food, racy finish and spices. +48561, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6.Kuhlmann-Platz Riesling 2006 Alsace: MVC for style, dry mode.
+106724, $16.95, QPR: 90.
 
RED WINES
^^^^^^^^^
1.Angels Gate Pinot Noir 2006 Niagara: MVC, some barnyard, longer
finish, no Ontario cranberry tones. +90779, $18.95, QPR: 90.
2.Bonterra Merlot 2006 Mendocino County: best with food. Organic.
+984724, $19.95, QPR: 90.
3.Chalone Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Monterey: fruity, all round
California pleaser. +104190, $18.95, QPR: 90.
4.Don Eugenio Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Mendoza: bargain, snap it
all up. +32094, $13.95, QPR: 93.
5.Santa Ana La Mascota Malbec 2006 Mendoza: great finish, depth and
fruit. +93880, $15.95, QPR: 90.
6.Baron Philippe de Rothschild Reserva Carmenere 2007 Rapel: 14.5% ABV
packs a wallop, with mocha tones and gaminess. +37945, $14.95, QPR: 90.
7.Santa Carolina Barrica Selection Syrah 2006 Maipo: full and lush,
14.5% ABV, fair price. +34959, $14.95, QPR: 90.
8.Bremerton Selkirk Shiraz 2006 Langhorne Creek: full, rich, peppery,
14.5% ABV. +90266, $18.95, QPR: 90.
9.Parri Estate Shiraz/Viognier 2006 Southern Fleurie Australia: best
wine tasted like a Cote Rotie at one-quarter the price. +48488, $18.95,
QPR: 94.
10.Bergwater Vineyards Reserve Merlot 2005 South Africa: dynamite on
mid-palate (i.e., just explodes), bursts with fruit on to the finish.
+79475, $16.95, QPR: 91.
11.Winery of Good Hope Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2007 Stellenbosch: 14%
ABV, basic cab-merlot blend at a great price. +8748, $12.95, QPR: 90.
12.Perrin & Fils Vinsobres Les Cornuds 2006 Rhone: 14%, one-third aged
in French oak, 50/50 syrah and Grenache. +56684, $18.95, QPR: 90.
13.Angio Archeo Primitivo 2006 Salento: value and depth are here.
+101410, $12.95, QPR: 90.
14.Donna Giovanna Rosso del Salento 2005: North American style and
fruit, with syrah tones. +106369, $16.95, QPR: 90.
15.Bodegas Victoria Pardina 2005 Carinena Spain: smoke and black fruit
dominate. +82453, $17.95, QPR: 90.
16.Bod. Franco-Espanolas Rioja Bordon Crianza 2004: MVC is very good,
long development, spicy, dried black fruit. +103531, $16.95, QPR: 91.

 

VALUE: "RESTAURANT READY" or "BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE"
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10
markup over retail; the wines are ready to enjoy right now. Consumers
could buy and bring to those restaurants with corkage programs.
1.Mitchell Peppertree Vineyard Shiraz 2005 Clare Valley, +57257,
$27.95.
2.L'Enclos du Chateau Lezongars 2005 Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux,
+729145, $25.95.
3.Domaine Latour-Giraud Marangues La Fussiere 2005 1er Cru, +86967,
$30.95.
4.Cantina Terre del Barolo Vinum Vitae Est Barolo 2004, +101246,
$29.95.
5.Castello di Neive Barbaresco 2005, +674044, $23.95.
6.Frescobaldi Castiglioni Cabernet Sauvignon/Sangiovese 2006 Toscana,
+974394, $23.95.
7.R.Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Crianza 2002 Rioja, +692780, $26.95.

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

BOOK REVIEW: AMERICA EATS! (Bloomsbury, 2008; distr. Raincoast, 207 pages

* FOOD BOOK OF THE MONTH! *
  ++++++++++++++++++++++

 

AMERICA EATS! (Bloomsbury, 2008; distr. Raincoast, 207 pages, ISBN
978-1-59691-362-2, $25.99 US hard covers) is by Pat Willard, a food
book writer ("Pie Every Day", "A Soothing Broth", and "Secrets of
Saffron"). The WPA (Works Progress Administration) had a project for
unemployed writers during the Depression -- the Federal Writers'
Project. The FWP produced local histories, nature guides, state
travelogues, and oral histories. Nelson Algren, Eudora Welty, and Saul
Bellow were all thus employed.  In one sub-project, writers and
photographers were asked to find out how America ate. They were told to
produce "an account of group eating as an important American social
institution; its part in development of American cookery as an
authentic art and in the preservation of that art in the face of mass
production of foodstuff and partly cooked foods and introduction of
numerous technological devices that lessen labor of preparation but
lower quality of the product." The project was "America Eats!", and
there were to be NO recipes. The vision was for stories about local
events where food was to be served: fund-raisers, religious gatherings,
dinners at Elks Lodges, tea socials, church suppers, family reunions,
rodeos, state agricultural fairs, harvest festivals, hobo camps, et al.
This was all about the "importance of social gatherings that glorify
the non-professional cook and keep traditional cookery alive." Willard
pulls it all together with transcripts, commentaries and personal re-
visits. She does contribute 25 recipes, some from her own family and
some from named sources such as Eudora Welty's Beaten Biscuits. The
project ceased in 1943, especially because the war effort reduced
community gatherings and the feel of celebration. The material was
boxed up and shipped to the Library of Congress, but not all was
completed or available. Some manuscripts are in state archives or
private hands, or even destroyed. Material was scattered over the five
regions that were covered. The stories were never published – until
now. A fascinating read. 
Audience and level of use: culinary historians.
Some interesting or unusual facts: Most of the historical photos are
from the Library of Congress, although there are two from the original
mss. in the archives.
The upside to this book: there is an index, plus a separate listing of
the recipes. A fascinating read.
Quality/Price Rating: 90.

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

BOOK REVIEW: Investing in Liquid Assets (by D. Sokolin)

INVESTING IN LIQUID ASSETS; uncorking profits in today's global wine
market (Simon & Schuster, 2008, 288 pages, ISBN 978-1-4165-5017-4, $26
US hard covers) is by David Sokolin, a top US wine broker. He took his
family's small Madison Avenue liquor store and turned it into the USA's
largest wine brokerage house. According to the author, the upscale wine
market in the USA is increasing. There are handsome profits to be made,
although ugly profits are also appreciated. Sokolin only deals in IGWs
(Investment Grade Wine), which have outperformed blue chip stocks for
the past century. His book deals with how to make money by trading in
fine wines. Part One identifies the key players and the principles
governing the IGWs in play (in other words, the principals and the
principles).There is basic data about what the futures markets are all
about. Part Two identifies the best wine regions, styles, and vintages
of the past century. This book, of course, is not meant for the average
wine drinker, but for the investor or collector. Even the novitiate
would know that the best regions are in France (Bordeaux, Burgundy,
Rhone, Sauternes, and Champagne), northern Italy (Tuscany, Piedmont),
Port, and Rioja. California and Australia wines are okay, but you won't
make much appreciation. Between 1986 and 2007 – 20 years – Sokolin's
Bordeaux portfolio went from $327,400 to $3,273,280. Impressive indeed.
To do anything in this business, though, he says that you should buy at
least 10 cases minimum for each brand. And there are problems of re-
selling and storage if you have the actual physical product near at
hand.
Audience and level of use: wine readers and wine investors, collectors.
Some interesting or unusual facts: "For all the great wines California
has to offer, I've never made much money in this sector."
The downside to this book: no mention of Hardy Rodenstock, or even of
frauds.
The upside to this book: the book is useful to us in Canada since wine
need never enter nor leave this country. As an investor, you'd simply
buy and sell wine as you would with any commodity.
Quality/Price Rating: 90.

 

 

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

TRADE TASTING Best wines for November 2008

These are the best wines I tasted at November 2008 trade tastings in Toronto:

 

**** Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Banfi Toscana IGT Centine 2006  -- $17.95 Charton Hobbs
-Fatt. Dei Barbi Brunello di Montalcino 2003 -- $49.95 Noble Estates
-Biondi Santi Brunello di Montalcino 2003 Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo --
$150  Symposium Imports
-Castello di Neve Barbaresco Riserva Santo Stefano 2003 - $59 Brunello
Imports
-Feudi di San Marzano Primitivo di Manduria Sessantanni 2005 - $35
Barrique Wine Imports
-Marchesi Antinori Bolgheri Il Bruciato 2006 - $27.95 Halpern
-Santa Barbara Salento IGT Barbaglio 2002 Puglia - $16.95 Vergina
-Villa Calcinaia Chianti Classico Villa Calcinaia Riserva 2005 - $33
Frati Estates
-Masi Amarone Riserva di Costasera 2003, $59.95 private order
-Poderi Colla Barolo Brolo Bussia 2004, $57.95, Vintages  +596890
-J&F Lurton Chacayes Mendoza 2004 - $77.95, Vintages pending
-J&F Lurton Rueda Cuesta de Oro 2006 Rueda Spain - $26.95, private
order
-KWV Paarl Mentors Chenin Blanc 2006 - $24.95, private order
-Louis Latour Corton Charlemagne 2005 - $179.95, Vintages Classics May
26, 2009 (2006)
-Sileni Estate The Lodge Chardonnay 2007 New Zealand - $16.95, private
order
-Simonnet-Febvre Chablis 1er Cru Mont de Milieu 2005 – $35.95 Vintages
Classics Jan 7 2009
-Simonnet-Febvre Cremont de Bourgogne Rose NV - $19.95 private order
-Vina Sena Arboleda Carmenere 2007 - $16.95 private order
-A. Lurton Divinus de Chateau Bonnet Blanc 2007 - $34.95 private order
-A. Lurton Divinus de Chateau Bonnet Rouge 2003 - $34.95 private order
-Bodega Del Fin Del Mondo Pinot Noir Reserva 2007 Patagonia - $19.95
Calibrium
-Luigi Bosca Gala 2 2006 Mendoza [Bordeaux-style blend] – Pacific Wines
and Spirits
-Familia Schroeder Pinot Noir Malbec 2004 Patagonia - $39 Connexion
Oenophilia
-Catena Zapata Chardonnay 2006 Mendoza - Calibrium
-Pascual Toso Pedregal Single Vineyard 2006 - $39 - Eurovintage
-Las Moras Reserve Chardonnay 2007 San Juan - $11.99 – Diamond Estates
-Trivento Golden Reserve Syrah 2006 Mendoza - $24.95 – Select Wines
-Trivento Golden Reserve Chardonnay 2007 Mendoza - $23.95 – Select
Wines
-Ogier Ted Red +665463, $9.95, 14.5% ABV

-Duca di Casalanza "Duchea" Pinot Grigio 2005 Veneto, $24.94
consignment
-Nichols Edna Ranch Pinot Noir 2001, $49.88
-DogRidge Cadenzia Grenache 2005 McLaren Vale, $29.93
-Senorio de P. Pecina Tinto Reserva 1999 Rioja, $31.45
-Ardent Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 McLaren Vale, $25.51
-Fanti San Filippo Brunello di Montalcino 2005 Tuscany, $22.95.
-Poetica Cabernet Merlot "P.K. Page" 1998, magnum, $168
-Poetica Cabernet Merlot "Gwendolyn MacEwan" 2002, $72 750 mL
-Poetica Chardonnay "Sarah Slean" 2005, $53 (also in magnum at $106)
-Poetica Chardonnay "Martin Tielli" 2004, $56
-Poetica Chardonnay "bpNichol" 2003, $59 – my fave
-Poetica Chardonnay "Steve Venright" 2000, $136 magnum – also a fave
-Poetica Chardonnay "Charles G.D. Roberts" 1998, $148 magnum
-Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut
-Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque 1999
-13th Street  Premier Cuvee  Traditional Method  Brut
-13th Street  2004 Cuvee  Traditional Method  Brut
-Taittinger  Brut Reserve   12.5% alc  Vintages   +814723   $63.95
-Henry of Pelham  Cuvee Catharine  Rose Brut  VQA  Traditional Method 
12% alc Vintages +83139  $34.95
-Chateau des Charmes  Brut  Methode Traditionelle  VQA    Vintages 
+207944  $22.95 
-Graham's  20 Years Old Tawny
-Taylor Fladgate  20 Year Old Tawny  20%  alc   Vintages Essentials
+149047  $68.95
-CORE Winery Hard Core 2006 $40 (Cynthia)
-White Rock Vineyards Laureate Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 $65 (C) –
organic, good value.
-Cedarville Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 $38 (Cynthia)
-Wedgetail Estate The North Face 2005 $27 (C) – Bordeaux blend
-Wedgetail Estate Pinot Noir 2004 $35 (C)
-Domaine des Quarres Anjou Blanc Sec Les Pierres Noires 2005 $23 (Ex)
-Domaine d'Orfeuilles Vouvray Les Coudraies 2005 Medium-Dry $22 (Ex)
-Chateau Sainte Eulalie Minervois La Liviniere La Cantilene 2005 $23
(Ex)
-O.Fournier Alfa Crux Tempranillo-Malbec-Merlot 2002 $38 (Ex)

-Lailey Sauvignon Blanc 2007 $20 (under priced) – some oak treatment.
140 cases.
-Lailey Chardonnay Old Vines $35 – 1200 bottles – best wine here, 35
year old vines
-Lailey Pinot Noir Old Vines $40 – 100 cases, extended toasted oak.

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

MEDIA DINNER: Fortress of Louisbourg 18th Century dinner at Fort York, Nov. 29, 2008

The Time and Date: Saturday, November 29, 2008  6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
The Event: an evening of 18th century food, wine and history at Fort
York, inspired by the wine inventories of the residents of Louisbourg.
The Venue: Fort York
The Target Audience: food historians and wine writers, and their
guests.
The Availability/Catalogue: Parks Canada was the major sponsor, and
they did their best to get appropriate wines, bearing in mind that
wines had to be available in the province of Ontario for consumption.
The wines are available through the LCBO. There was one Nova Scotia
wine, Jost Framboise Raspberry Dessert Wine with dessert.
The Quote/Background: Anne Marie Lane Jonah (historian at Fortress of
Louisbourg), her sister Susan Lane (sommelier and Manager of Lane's
Privateer Inn) and Ann Marie Pitcher (restaurant manager of Fortress
Louisbourg Association) had been putting together wine and food nights
at Louisbourg. They had offered several four-course meals with wine
plus tours of the Fortress at night, at an amazing price of $65 a head.
They had just completed their third season, with the dates for the
fourth in 2009 to be announced shortly. They had been researching for
quite a while, and now it was time to take the show on the road – to
show the rest of Canada what awaits them at the Fortress. Their 300th
anniversary is coming up in 1713, and they'd like lots of tourists to
eat there. The meals are set in 1744, based on the wine inventory at
the time. Each course is described by the team, and so is the
accompanying wine. Reproductions of plates and serving dishes are used,
as well as fully costumed interpreters. "We're trying to encourage
people to spend a little more time thinking about the people who lived
in colonial Louisbourg; they came from many regions and had a wide
experience of the world they lived in", said Anne Marie Lane Jonah.
"There was a lot about life in 18th-century Louisbourg that was harsh,
but people have always tried to find pleasures to make life more
bearable. Food is one of those sources of pleasure, as well as
sustenance, and it's also one of the main ways that people define their
culture". Just before we ate, there was a sabre demo on opening wine
bottles, performed by Doris Miculan Bradley…we gave her lots of room.
The Wines and Food: we were given a printed menu with sources for the
preps, and the type of wines that would have been served. Strewn
throughout each course were edible flowers as garnishes. Two musicians
with a harpsichord and a flute provided consummate music. Here's the
menu (with some comments). Sources are listed after each dish – no
source means it is a "traditional" dish with accepted local provenance:

 

Huitres, Merigomish et Trumpcap de Nouvelle Ecosse – with gougeres and
sauce, lemons. We drank Louise Brison Brut Champagne 2002 (50/50 pinot
noir and chardonnay, a traditional accompaniment to oysters)

 

Soup - Potage de poisson (La Varenne, 1651) – coarse chopped diverse
fish, such as cod and salmon, served family style. With a "vin de
Nante": Domain les Haute Noelles Muscadet Cotes de Grandlieu 2006
(refreshing acidity)

 

Entremets – gougeres bourguignonnes, pate (after Menon, 1755). With
"vin claret de Provence" Carte Noire Rose Cotes de Provence 2007
(extremely light in colour, useful pairing with the entremets and/or
the soup and salmon below).

 

Premier service – Saumon aux fines herbes, sauce petite italienne
(Menon, 1755), with rice and salad (mushroom, carrots, cucumber,
lettuces, shirred eggs). With "vin de Florence" Frescobaldi Chianti
Rufina Nippozano Reserva 2005 (long and balanced, paired with salmon
but also useful with the ragout below and the pate).

 

Entrée – Ragout de boeuf (Massialot, 1691) with carrots, turnips,
potatoes. "Vin de Navarre" Julian Chivite Gran Feudo Reserve 2003
Navarra (lots of wood tones that melded with the beefy complexity of
the ragout).

 

Dessert – Gateau fin au chocolat avec crème anglaise (LaVarenne,
ca1650). "Liqueur de framboises" Jost Framboise Raspberry Dessert Wine.

 

The Contact Person: mark.sajatovich@pc.gc.ca or
Annemarie.jonah@pc.gc.ca
The Marketing Effectiveness (numerical grade): 95

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

TRADE TASTING: French Wine Connection...wines from France at ARTCORE Galley Nov 24/08

 The Time and Date:  Monday, November 24, 2008  1:30 PM to 5 PM
The Event: The French wine connection…wines from France.
The Venue: ARTCORE Gallery, Distillery District
The Target Audience: wine trade.
The Availability/Catalogue: ostensibly, all of the principals were
seeking agents. Somehow, except for one, they already had signed on.
The Quote/Background: "Good food to go with the wines."
The Wines:

 

**** Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Louise Brison Champagne Brut 2003 (Eurovintage)
-Domaine de la Saveuse Cuvee Carolle Rouge 2007 Cotes de Provence
(Rouge et Blanc)
-Domaine de la Saveuse Cuvee Philippine Rouge 2006 Cotes de Provence
(Rouge et Blanc)
-Domaines Piron Morgon Cote de Py 2006 (Wine Guy)
-La Passion des Terroirs Relais de Durfort-Vivens 2005 Margaux ($55,
Connoisseur)
-Schoenheitz Gewurztraminer Linsenberg 2007 ($31.50, Lamprecht)

 

***1/2 Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Louise Brison Champagne Cuvee Tendresse Blancs de Blanc 2001
(Eurovintage)
-Domaines Piron Moulin a Vent 2007 (Wine Guy)
-Domaines Piron Chenas 2007 (Wine Guy)
-Domaines Piron Brouilly 2007 (Wine Guy)
-La Passion des Terroirs Chateau de Camarsac 2005 Bordeaux Superieur
($17.50, Connoisseur)
-La Passion des Terroirs Chateau de Villegeorge 2005 Haut Medoc
($46.55, Connoisseur)
-Schoenheitz Riesling Linsenberg 2007 ($25, Lamprecht)

 

*** Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-La Passion des Terroirs Saint Jacques de Siran 2005 Bordeaux ($19.13,
Connoisseur)
-La Passion des Terroirs Chateau Duplessis 2005 Moulis en Medoc($31.70,
Connoisseur)
-La Passion des Terroirs Chateau de Domeyne 2005 Saint Estephe ($50,
Connoisseur)
-Schoenheitz Riesling 2007 ($20, Lamprecht)
-Schoenheitz Pinot Gris Holder 2007 ($29.50, Lamprecht)

 

The Food: charcuterie, cheeses. Artisanal breads, etc.
The Downside: there were a number of agents who wanted to sign up with
wineries, but the wines were already repped. Some agents felt that
their time was wasted.
The Upside: a chance to see a small selection of French wines from most
of the big regions of France.
The Contact Person: emmanuelle.dubout@missioneco.org
The Marketing Effectiveness (numerical grade): 82.

 

 

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

TRADE TASTING: Gourmet Food & Wine Expo, November 20/08 VIP Night

The Time and Date: Thursday, November 20, 2008 6PM to 9PM
The Event: the Gourmet Food & Wine Expo, VIP night
The Venue: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
The Target Audience: wine press, wine trade, private insiders.
The Availability/Catalogue: everything is available, especially with an
onsite LCBO store which carried most of the offerings.
The Quote/Background: I use the show to catch up with New York wines,
and some select suppliers who do not have a portfolio tasting, and the
theme country (this year, France). I find that I can just barely get
though the evening…there are so many wines, and so little time.
The Wines:

 

**** Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Domaine de la Paulette Cote de Nuits-Villages Blanc 2007, $33.50
(Nokhrin Wines)
-Domaine de la Paulette Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru Les Vaucrains 2005,
$74 (Nokhrin Wines)
-La Maison Pierrel Champagne Tradition Brut Rose, $55 (Nokhrin Wines)
-Peninsula Ridge Cabernet Franc Reserve 2002, $24.95 Vintages
-Peninsula Ridge Sauvignon Blanc A.J. Lepp Vineyard, $18.95 Vintages
-Domaine Herve Seguin Pouilly Fume 2007, +81414 $25.95 (MCO)
-Domaine Sorin Rose 2007 Provence, +71191, $16.95 (MCO)
-Rene Mure Gewurztraminer 2006 Alsace, +61218, $16.95 (MCO)
-Beckett's Flat Shiraz 2004 Margaret River, +585869, $23.95 (MCO)
-Dornier Wines Donatus Red 2004, +606020, $26.95 (MCO)
-d'Arenberg The Laughing Magpie Shiraz Viognier, +936971, $27.75
Vintages
-Robert Mondavi Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, +255513, $37.75
-Casa Silva Los Lingues Gran Reserva Carmenere Chile, +59477, $17.75
-Franciscan Estates Napa Valley Chardonnay California, +496125 $24.75
Vintages
-Simi Landslide Cabernet Sauvignon California, +67744, $44.75 Vintages
-Heron Hill Chardonnay 2005 Finger Lakes NY, $17.15 (Robert Ketchin)
-Wolffer Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2005 Long Island $31.05 (Robert
Ketchin)
-Osprey Dominion Vineyards Meritage 2005 Long Island $49.95 (Robert
Ketchin)
-Wolffer Estate Reserve Merlot 2004 Long Island $36.20 (Robert Ketchin)

 

***1/2 Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Chateau de Grand Moueys Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux Rouge 1999, $21
(Nokhrin Wines)
-Chivite Gran Feudo Reserva Navarra 2003, +479014, $15.75 Vintages 
Essentials
-Willm Riesling Reserve Alsace, +11452, $16.75 Vintages Essentials
-Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Urziger Goldwingert Riesling Spatlese 2006,
+71142, Vintages $32.75
-Meursault de Chateau Meursault 2005, +520213, $56.75 Vintages
-Banrock Station Sparkling Chardonnay Australia, +534974, $12.60 LCBO
-Casa Silva Reserve Carmenere 2006 Chile, +24679, $14.75 Vintages
-Dr.Konstantin Frank Dry Riesling 2007 Finger Lakes NY, $21.50 (Hobbs &
Co)
-Peconic Bay Riesling 2006, $25.45  (Robert Ketchin)
-Brotherhood Pinot Noir 2006 Hudson River NY $18.95 +79939 Vintages

 

*** Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-La Maison Pierrel Les Oressences Brut Chardonnay, $70 (Nokhrin Wines)
-Pagani de Marchi Principe Guerriero 2004 Tuscany, $45 (Nokhrin Wines)
-Peninsula Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2007, $14.75 LCBO
-Peninsula Ridge Merlot, $14.75 LCBO
-Chateau Pineraie 2005 Cahors, +78725, $15.95 (MCO)
-Tapestry Wines Merlot 2005 McLaren Vale, +64063, $26.95 (MCO)
-Domaine Doudet Les Guerets Aloxe Corton 2005, +66530, $44.95 (MCO)
-d'Arenberg The Football Shiraz, +984021, $21.75 Vintages
-Blackstone Cabernet Sauvignon California, +714816, $14.80 Vintages
-Castello di Borghese Chardonnay 2006 Long Island, $24.15 (Robert
Ketchin)
-Lamoreaux Landing Gewurztraminer 2006, $16.85 (MCO)
-Castello di Borghese Cabernet Franc 2004 Long Island, $31.90 (Robert
Ketchin)

 

The Food: mostly cheeses and breads and crackers from Churchill Cellars
which had a private showing of their wines. Most of the food vendors
are too busy selling their products.
The Downside: it got crowded really fast, people know what to do now.
The Upside: a good event to catch up with country wines such as New
York State.
The Contact Person: kdobrucki@townmedia.ca
The Marketing Effectiveness (numerical grade): 90.

 

 

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

TRADE TASTING: Lailey Vineyards Futures, Nov. 27, 2008

The Time and Date: Thursday, November 27, 2008  3PM to 7 PM
The Event: a 2007 Futures offering from Lailey Vineyard in Niagara on
the Lake. Derek Barnett is the winemaker, Ed Haddon is the sommelier.
The Venue: Fine Wine Reserve, King Street
The Target Audience: private clients.
The Availability/Catalogue: Three of the 2007 vintage wines are already
in bottle (Counterpoint, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay), the remaining 7
are barrel samples. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay will be out in February,
the balance in April. Futures orders were taken on site.
The Quote: Derek has had a long association with Lailey, buying fruit
from them when he was winemaker at Southbrook, In the fall of 2001, he
moved to NOTL and joined Lailey as a winemaker and business partner.
The Wines: it was hard to taste the reds since they were barrel
samples. The pinot was the most advanced.

 

**** Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Lailey Sauvignon Blanc 2007 $20 (under priced) – some oak treatment.
140 cases.
-Lailey Chardonnay Old Vines $35 – 1200 bottles – best wine here, 35
year old vines
-Lailey Pinot Noir Old Vines $40 – 100 cases, extended toasted oak.

 

***1/2 Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Lailey Counterpoint 2007 $25 (white blend, 58% gewürztraminer,
sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay in equal proportions of 14% each)
140 cases
-Lailey Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $25 – 200 cases
-Lailey Meritage Canadian Oak 2007 $35 – nice integration already.

 

*** Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Lailey Chardonnay 2007 Niagara River $25 – 1 year oak
-Lailey Syrah Canadian Oak 2007 $35 – like a young St. Joseph
-Lailey Cabernet Franc 2007 $35
-Lailey Impromptu 2007 $40 – 200 cases, blend of 60% syrah, 20%
cabernet sauvignon, 10% Malbec, 10% petit Verdot. Should be
approachable 3 – 5 years. Second vintage for this wine.

 

The Food: charcuterie and cheeses.
The Downside: it was at the end of a long tasting day.
The Upside: good wines and company
The Contact Person: www.laileyvineyard.com
The Marketing Effectiveness (numerical grade): 89.

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

PORTFOLIO TASTING: Cynthia's Selections and Ex-Cellars Wine Services, Nov. 27, 2008

The Time and Date: Thursday, November 27, 2008  2PM to 5 PM
The Event: A joint portfolio tasting of Cynthia's Selections (Cynthia
Moore) and Ex-cellars Wine Services (Nuray Ali)
The Venue: Flatiron Building, 5th floor.
The Target Audience: wine trade in the afternoon, private clients in
the evening.
The Availability/Catalogue: everything is in stock
The Quote: "These boutique wineries specialize in sustainable or
organic or biodynamic wines, traditionally made with attention to
detail"
The Wines: Ex-cellars showed 13 wines (Ex); Cynthia showed 21 wines
(C).

 

**** Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-CORE Winery Hard Core 2006 $40 (Cynthia)
-White Rock Vineyards Laureate Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 $65 (C) –
organic, good value.
-Cedarville Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 $38 (Cynthia)
-Wedgetail Estate The North Face 2005 $27 (C) – Bordeaux blend
-Wedgetail Estate Pinot Noir 2004 $35 (C)
-Domaine des Quarres Anjou Blanc Sec Les Pierres Noires 2005 $23 (Ex)
-Domaine d'Orfeuilles Vouvray Les Coudraies 2005 Medium-Dry $22 (Ex)
-Chateau Sainte Eulalie Minervois La Liviniere La Cantilene 2005 $23
(Ex)
-O.Fournier Alfa Crux Tempranillo-Malbec-Merlot 2002 $38 (Ex)

 

***1/2 Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Handley Cellars Pinot Gris 2006 California $26 (Cynthia)
-Domaine De LaGasqui Vallat des Taches 2005 Rhone Vauclause (C)
-Cedarville Vineyard Zinfandel 2003 $25 (Cynthia)
-Champagne Delamotte Blanc de Blanc 1999 $88 (Ex)
-Latour-Giraud Meursault Perrieres 2006 $88 (Ex)
-Domaine Tollot-Beaut Savigny 1er Cru Lavieres 2005 $55 (Ex)
-Domaine Dubreuil-Fontaine Pommard 1er Cru Epenots 2006 $75 (Ex)
-Dom de la Charbonniere Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hautes Brusquieres 2003
$59 (Ex)

 

*** Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Handley Cellars Gewurztraminer 2007 California $28 (Cynthia)
-Poppy Hill Cabernet California 2004 $20 (C)
-CORE Winery Elevation 2006 Santa Barbara $54 (C)
-Twenty Rows The Grappler Zinfandel Blend 2006 $35 (C)
-Field Stone Winery Convivio Red 2005 Alexander Valley $26 (C)
-Field Stone Winery Old Vine Petit Syrah 2006 $40 (C)
-Cedarville Vineyard Zinfandel 2005 $25 (Cynthia)
-Andrew Pirie Estate Pinot Noir 2005 $39 (Ex)
-Montevetrano Colli de Salerno IGT Rosso $99 (Ex)
-Valenciso Rioja Reserva 2002 $40 (Ex)

 

The Food: Saucier Foods (www.saucierfoods.com) provided the duck
rilettes, the smoked salmon dip, the pate, and diverse artisanal
cheeses. As well, there was a giant frittata.
The Downside: it came just after a heavy bout of port and champagne
tasting (see above). Also, the quarters were small.
The Upside: great wines and food, good "close" company.
The Contact Person: nuray@ex-cellars.ca and Cynthia.moore@rogers.com
The Marketing Effectiveness (numerical grade): 91.

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

Ontario Vintages Releases January 10, 2009

WORLD WINE WATCH (VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JANUARY 10, 2009
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing <deantudor@deantudor.com>
Always at www.deantudor.com since 1995. Also visit my "Wines, Beers and
Spirits of the Net Compendium", a guide to thousands of news items and
RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits.
My tastings are based on MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are
QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated
wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the
release for wine writers or product consultants. Also, some defective
or corked wines are not available for re-tasting.

 

WHITE WINES
^^^^^^^^^^^
1.Lockwood Vineyard Chardonnay 2006 Monterey: bright sunshine from
California, longer finish. +673731, $18.95, QPR: 90.
2.Catena Alamos Chardonnay 2007 Mendoza: good blend of flavours, ripe
and full, modest vanilla and toast, some cream. +801571, $13.95, QPR:
90.
3.D'Arenberg The Stump Jump White 2007 McLaren Vale/Adelaide Hills:
twist top, excellent blend for aperitif or party or first course.
+922203, $14.95, QPR: 90.
4.Sileni Cellar Selection Pinot Gris 2008 Hawke's Bay: juicy, great for
Asiatic food, 14% ABV, hot finish. Twist top. +32292, $15.95, QPR: 90.
5.Henri de Villamont Bourgogne Chardonnay 2006: some creaminess, good
texture at this price level. +525121, $19.95, QPR: 90.
6.Villa Tonino Inzolia 2007 Sicilia: great finish to upfront fruit, can
compete with food. +100552, $13.95, QPR: 90.

 

RED WINES
^^^^^^^^^
1.Konzelmann Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2006 Niagara: good Euro-based
style, aged ok. +112946, $13.70, QPR: 90.
2.Malivoire Gamay 2006 Niagara: highly evolved aromatics of black
fruit. +591313, $17, QPR: 90.
3.Clos de Bois Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 North Coast: always a good buy,
balance is here, all purpose red. +181685, $18.95, QPR: 90.
4.Santa Julia Malbec Reserva 2005 Mendoza: very Euro, good background
and breeding, food needed. +665026, $13.95, QPR: 90.
5.Baron Philippe de Rothschild Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Maipo:
very well concentrated flavours, but still Euro in style. +32151,
$14.95, QPR: 90.
6.Chilensis Reserva Carmenere 2006 Maule: 14%ABV, some herbs dominate,
lovely mouthfeel and texture. +657981, $11.95, QPR: 92.
7.Sandalford Protégé Shiraz 2005 Margaret River: good wood and aging,
but it all up. Barrel fermentation, twist top. Classic. +80671, $17.95,
QPR: 93.
8.Viljoensdrift River Grandeur Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Robertson: soft
but good Euro style backbone from South Africa. +79483, $15.95, QPR:
90.
9.Chateau Larroque 2005 Bordeaux: almost ready, classic MVC. +92536,
$17.95, QPR: 90.
10.Terre Domini Valpolicella Ripasso La Vigilia 2006: good depth and
mouth-filling berry tones. +103606, $18.95, QPR: 90.
11.Albada Vinas Viejas Garnacha Tinto 2005 Catatayud Spain: low
yielding old vines, powerful aromas and flavours. +93005, $15.95, QPR:
90.
12.Salinas Mo Monastrell 2006 Alicante: with some cabernet, syrah, and
Grenache, full and ripe. +95133, $16.95, QPR: 90.

 

VALUE: "RESTAURANT READY" or "BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE"
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10
markup over retail; the wines are ready to enjoy right now. Consumers
could buy and bring to those restaurants with corkage programs.
1.Merryvale Chardonnay 2005 Carneros, +76026, $47.95.
2.Domiane Patrick Miolane Chassagne-Montrachet La Caniere 2006, +91199,
$46.95.
3.Mark West Pinot Noir 2005 California, +83329, $23.95.
4.Dornier Donatus 2004 Stellenbosch, +606020, $24.95.
5.Chateau L'Escart Cuvee Prestige 2001 Bordeaux Superieur, +91363,
$22.95.
6.Due Torri Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2005, +724740, $36.95.
7.N Sentido 2005 Ribera del Duero, +82081, $25.95.

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

TRADE TASTING: Launch of Southbrook Vineyard's Poetica wines, Nov. 19, 2008

The Time and Date: Wednesday November 19, 2008  3 PM – 4:30 PM
The Event: the press launch of Southbrook Vineyards' POETICA series of
fine wines.
The Venue: The Richmond
The Target Audience: wine press
The Availability/Catalogue: Winemaker Anne Sperling spoke to the wines,
although both Bill and Marilyn Redelmeier did also.
The Quote: "The wines' labels display the art of words with lines of
poetry by 11 of Canada's celebrated poets from all time periods.
Bottles will be limited editions and numbered." Instead of critters or
fantasy names, Southbrook opted for support for Canadian poetry. Each
label has the lines of poetry in a graphic re-design on the label.
Poets included Gwendolyn MacEwan, Wendy Morton, bpNichol, Charles G.D.
Roberts, P.K. Page, Christopher Dewdney, and Lesley Choyce. There will
be new poets each year, one for each new vintage and varietal.
The Wines: most of these wines were in the former Triomphus series, the
high end wines of Southbrook. Wines are available at the winery, but
are in limited supply.

 

**** Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Poetica Cabernet Merlot "P.K. Page" 1998, magnum, $168
-Poetica Cabernet Merlot "Gwendolyn MacEwan" 2002, $72 750 mL
-Poetica Chardonnay "Sarah Slean" 2005, $53 (also in magnum at $106)
-Poetica Chardonnay "Martin Tielli" 2004, $56
-Poetica Chardonnay "bpNichol" 2003, $59 – my fave
-Poetica Chardonnay "Steve Venright" 2000, $136 magnum – also a fave
-Poetica Chardonnay "Charles G.D. Roberts" 1998, $148 magnum

 

***1/2 Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Poetica Cabernet Merlot "Wendy Morton" 2006, $60
-Poetica Chardonnay "Lesley Choyce" 2006, $50

 

The Food: an artisanal cheese platter from PQ and Ontario for each of
us, with pear and apple and breads.
The Downside: I had to run by 4 PM. Some writers were late, which
postponed the tasting. As it was, I left at 4:12. I felt I did not have
enough time to do justice to the reds.
The Upside: a great occasion to listen to a poetry reading.
The Contact Person: jburkhard@sympatico.ca
The Marketing Effectiveness (numerical grade): 90.

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

TRADE LUNCH: Launch of cookbook "West", Nov 13, 2008

The Time and Date: Thursday, November 13, 2008  12:30 to 3 PM
The Event: the cookbook launch of "West", by Warren Geraghty, published
by Douglas and McIntyre in Vancouver.
The Venue: The Fifth.
The Target Audience: wine and food writers of the GTA.
The Availability/Catalogue: There were introductions by James Chatto
(Toronto Life) and Jamie Maw (Vancouver Magazine). Did you know that
there are 82 species of seafood off BC coastline? At the end, the chef
came out and described the food.
The Quote: "Everything at lunch can be prepared from the book at home".
West is one of several restaurants run by Toptable (www.toptable.ca)
The Food and Wines: we also had 10,000 BC water from the west coast.
All the food and wine came from British Columbia. Here was the menu –

 

* Canapes – BC mushroom arancini [top notch]
            Vancouver Island octopus with Pemberton beets (yellow)
            Ballotine of foie gras and Salt Spring Island goat cheese
            Galantine of Thiessen Farm quail and jasmine poached
raisins [top notch again] …and accompanied by Sumac Ridge Steller's Jay
2004 Okanagan Valley (MC Brut, biscuity, 91+, $26)

 

* Tian of Dungeness crab and saffron cous cous, smoked tomato gazpacho
-- accompanied by Blackwood Lane Riesling 2007 Okanagan Valley (85-87,
$35)

 

* Seared Qualicum Bay scallops with butternut squash – accompanied by
Sandhill Small Lots Osprey Ridge Vineyard Viognier 2007 Okanagan Valley
(88-90, $23)

 

* Supreme of sockeye salmon with sesame scented white cabbage, smoked
salmon gnocchi, raisin puree – accompanied by Quails' Gate Family
Reserve Pinot Noir 2006 Okanagan Valley (88-90, $35) [needed time to
open, best with gnocchi]

 

* Loin of dry aged [48 days] Pemberton Meadows beef, oxtail and foie
gras cromesquis [egg shaped rolls], confit Portobello and roasted red
onion – accompanied by Mission Hill Oculus 2005 Okanagan Valley (88-90,
deeply extractive and overpowered the dish)

 

* Saffron spiced pumpkin panna cotta with ginger cake and orange
saffron syrup – with Gehringer Brothers Riesling Ice wine 2007 Okanagan
Valley, 88-90, good food match here)

 

The Downside: I wanted to taste the wines against the variety of food,
but the wait staff wanted to clear my places. Also, I felt that the
chef – or someone -- could have come out and describe the dishes as we
ate them.
The Upside: a chance at Vancouver cuisine, plus a signed copy of the
book. See my book review in the December edition of "Food and Wine
Books In Review"
The Contact Person: shelley@toptable.ca
The Marketing Effectiveness (numerical grade): 92.

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com

 

 

TRADE TASTING: Le Sommelier Portfolio, Nov. 12, 2008

The Time and Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2008  2 PM to 4 PM
The Event: Portfolio tasting of Le Sommelier, trade portion. The client
tasting came in the evening.
The Venue: Niagara Street Cafe
The Target Audience: wine trade, wine press
The Availability/Catalogue: everything is here, either by consignment
or by Vintages. 21 wines were offered.
The Quote: "Most of the wines are listed as sustainable."
The Wines:

 

**** Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Duca di Casalanza "Duchea" Pinot Grigio 2005 Veneto, $24.94
consignment
-Nichols Edna Ranch Pinot Noir 2001, $49.88
-DogRidge Cadenzia Grenache 2005 McLaren Vale, $29.93
-Senorio de P. Pecina Tinto Reserva 1999 Rioja, $31.45
-Ardent Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 McLaren Vale, $25.51
-Fanti San Filippo Brunello di Montalcino 2005 Tuscany, $22.95.

 

***1/2 Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-J.M. Sohler Grand Cru Winzenberg Pinot Gris 2006 Alsace, $28.94
-DogRidge The Pup Chardonnay 2006 McLaren Vale, $20.95
-Nichols Meritage Vinas del Sol 2000 San Luis Obispo, $49.80
-DogRidge The Pup Shiraz 2005 McLaren Vale, $19.90
-DogRidge MVP Shiraz 2004 McLaren Vale, $79.80

 

*** Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Nigl Gruner Veltliner Gartling 2007 Austria, $20.95 retail
-Quinta de Sanjoanne Vinho Verde 2007 Portugal, $14.92
-Ciu Ciu Oris Falerio 2007 Marche Italy, $13.92 organic
-Nichols Edna Ranch Pinot Noir Clone 777 2001, $49.88
-Antiquarian Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 McLaren Vale, $49.80

 

The Food: appetizers such as artisanal cheeses, terrines, candied
walnuts.
The Downside: we arrived later than we should have.
The Upside: the quality of the wines.
The Contact Person: bernard@lesommelier.com
The Marketing Effectiveness (numerical grade): 92.

 

 

Chimo!  www.deantudor.com