WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JULY 5, 2014

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JULY 5, 2014

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By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com.

Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium

"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1994. My LCBO 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. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

 

====?>>> ** BEST WINE VALUE OF THE RELEASE *UNDER* $20

 

Santa Ema Reserve Chardonnay 2012 Casablanca Valley, +369462, $15.95: if this price holds, then this is great value in a wooded chardonnay – toasty and warm, rich and ripe butter tones, tropicality too. But it may overwhelm subtle food. Long length lingers. 13.5% ABV. Snap it up, the deal of the summer, only 369 cases for the whole province...but leave some for me. QPR: 93.

 

====?>>> ** BEST WINE VALUE OF THE RELEASE *OVER* $20

 

Vina Olabarri Gran Reserva 2005 Rioja, +329102, $24.95

 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.

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1.Cave Spring Estate Chardonnay 2012 Cave Spring Vineyard VQA Beamsville Bench, +256552, $18.95: loaded with charm, 13% ABV, smoky and Ontario apple, some citrus, fruit on the mid-palate. QPR: 89.

2.Tawse Sketches of Niagara Riesling 2013 VQA Niagara Peninsula, +89029, $17.95: orchard fruit shines here (apples, pears, peaches) with off-dryness supported by a modest 10.5% ABV. Excellent sipper or with food, maybe a spritzer. QPR: 89.

3.Jean Bousquet Cameleon Torrontes/Chardonnay 2013 Tupungato Valley Mendoza, +375469, $13.95: a nifty torrontes, coupled with chardonnay (I suspect new vines, for more intense acid), to produce a dryish but highly fruity sipper or food wine. 13.5% ABV, twist top. QPR: 89.

4.San Pedro 1865 Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Leyda Valley, +375212, $18.95: an excellent savvy hit, 13.5% ABV, twist top, very fresh, very food oriented on the finish. QPR: 89.

5.Lawson's Dry Hills Gewurztraminer 2011 Marlborough, +60129, $19.95: good gewurz with typical refreshing bitterness on the finish, twist top, 14.5% ABV. QPR: 89.

6.Chateau Salmoniere Vieilles Vignes Muscat Sevre & Maine 2012 Sur Lie, +142380, $13.95: good depth from the vieilles vignes. The LCBO should be expanding this VV category of Loire wines. Twist top, 12% ABV, gold medalist. QPR: 89.

7.Alpha Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2012 PGI Florina Greece, +368464, $19.95: another excellent savvy, this time from Greece. Gold medalist, 13.5% ABV, cork finish. QPR: 89.

 

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.

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1.Vizcarra Senda del Oro Roble 2011 DO Ribera del Duero, +331249, $19.95: rare to find value from Ribera under twenty bucks. Here it is dense and chunky with North American jammy appeal, 14.5% ABV, organic tempranillo grapes. QPR: 89.

2.Muruve Roble 2011 DO Toro, +280404, $13.95: a fruity and juicy joy with nine months of oak, and a blast at 16% ABV. BBQ definitely. QPR: 89.

3.Peique Tinto Mencia 2012 DO Bierzo, +219204, $15.95: with no oak, the delicious fruit stands out with some licorice tones. 14% ABV, affordable. QPR: 89.

4.Trapiche Fincas Las Palmas Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Mendoza, +143206, $16.95: a delicious Euro-style fruity wine, with "gran reserva" on the label but not spelled out in the catalogue. 14.5% ABV, cork finish. QPR: 89.

5.Chateau Los Boldos Vieilles Vignes Syrah 2011 Single Vineyard Cachapoal Andes Chile: good Rhonish syrah hit from the older vines, 14.5% ABV, lovely finish for BBQ. QPR: 89.

6.De Martino Organic Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2011 Maipo, +371096, $14.95: an excellent blend for the BBQ with the cab sauv being filled out by the malbec. 13.5% ABV. QPR: 89.

7.Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Barossa, +203158, $16.95: tops out at 15%, good cabby from Australia, twist top. MVC all the way. QPR: 89.

8.D'Alfonso del Sordo Guado San Leo Uva di Troia 2006 IGT Daunia Puglia: tasty, off-dry with dissolving tannins, one year in barrel, 13.5% ABV. QPR: 89.

9.Coltibuono Cancelli Rosso 2011 IGT Toscana, +920173, $15.95: a good value quaffer to stock up with, 14% ABV. Sangiovese and syrah tones shine through. QPR: 89.

 

VALUE: "RESTAURANT READY" or "BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE" over $20

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Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

 

1.Faustino V Reserva 2008 Rioja, +22798, $22.95 retail.

2.Henry of Pelham Estate Pinot Noir 2010 VQA Short Hills Bench, +268391, $24.95

3.Red Rooster Reserve Meritage 2011 BC VQA Okanagan Valley, +366187, $24.95

4.Hidden Bench Terroir Cache Meritage 2010 VQA Beamsville Bench, +505610, $38.20

5.Barossa Valley Estate Ebenezer Shiraz 2007 Barossa Valley, +971705, $39.95

6.Hamilton Russell Chardonnay 2012 WO Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, +931006, $34.95

7.Cave des Vignerons de Buxy Montagny Les Chaniots 1er cru 2010, +159020, $24.95

8.Canonica a Cerreto Sandiavolo 2006 IGT Toscana, +270256, $27.95

9.Masi Grandarella 2010 Appassimento IGT Refosco dell Venezie, +606921, $25.95

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: a pre-launch promotion dinner at Pastizza, Esplanade and Market Street

The Date and Time: Monday, June 9, 2014   6PM to 9PM

The Event: a pre-launch promotion dinner at Pastizza, Esplanade and Market Street

The Target Audience: members of the Wine Writers' Circle of Canada

The Availability/Catalogue: all of the wines at this new restaurant are from Thomas George Estate Winery in Healdsburg, California with vineyards in the Russian River Valley.

The Quote/Background: This is an upscale casual dining establishment in the St. Lawrence district, emphasizing a variety of great pastas and pizzas (hence, its name). There are other mains as well, of course, including short ribs, branzino filet, duck, salmon, chicken and others. Paolo Paolini (of Centro, Splendido, Mistura, and Sopra), the COO, wants it to be a flagship operation with a few other places in the GTA, and then some nationally. It is a big restaurant, with a huge wine cellar rack floating in the air (or so it seems) over the bar. This location will supply the other GTA restaurants with housemade pasta and pizza dough. There will also be take away offerings. One of the owners is Thomas George Estate Winery in Sonoma – they will be supplying all of the wines through their Ontario agent B & W. Some of the wines for the "by the glass or bottle" program will feature the Pastizza name on the label, selling for around $40 or so at the restaurant, and then later to consumers via the agent. Paolo expects to have about 40 different wines, including a California Pinot Grigio, Dolcetto, Viognier, and Zinfandel (which may be rebranded as Pastizza Primitivo) – they are all in the California style, with lower acid levels. The restaurant is aiming for under $40 a head with wine, or about $100 a couple with taxes and gratuities.

The Wines:

 

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

-Pastizza North Coast Brut Sparkling Wine NV

-Thomas George Estates Zinfandel 2011 Russi Vineyard Russian River Valley

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Pastizza North Coast Viognier 2012

-Thomas George Estates Chardonnay 2010 Russian River Valley

-Thomas George Estates Pinot Noir 2011 Russian River Valley

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Pastizza North Coast Pinot Grigio 2012

-Pastizza North Coast Tempranillo 2010

 

The Food: we started with many different thin crusted pizzas, beginning with the classic margherita, followed by pizzas with Kobe pastrami, cheeses, giardiniera, wild mushrooms, roasted garlic, and more. With these we had the sparkler which was much in the prosecco vein. This was followed by a communal sitdown dinner beginning with all semolina casarece pasta and clams in a yellow tomato sauce (Viognier and Pinot Grigio for this: good matches). Next up was a beef raviolone (large ravioli) with a wild mushroom sauce and the intriguing Tempranillo and Zinfandel wines. A more classic pairing came with the main, an Irish organic pistachio encrusted salmon filet, with asparagus, bitters salad, organic chicken, scalloped potatoes, and boneless short ribs: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Russian River estates. There was something for everyone as we all picked and chose what we wanted to eat off platters. The culmination was an excellent housemade sticky pudding (made with date sugar) and espresso. No dessert wine, but who had room anyway? Certainly the kitchen was accomplished.

The Contact Person: spuritt@sympatico.ca and/or paolo@pastizza.ca

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Fer Vermut! Tasting of Buil & Gine Priorat, Rueda and Montsant wines

The Date and Time: Thursday, June 12, 2014  2PM to 5PM

The Event: Fer Vermut! Tasting of Buil & Gine Priorat, Rueda and Montsant wines (missing only one from Toro).

The Venue: Patria Restaurant

The Target Audience: sommeliers, clients, media

The Availability/Catalogue: wines are by the case as licensee purchases.

The Quote/Background: Winemaker Xavier Buil I Gine flew in from Barcelona for the occasion, to talk about his wines and foods, both available through the agency The Case for Wine. In addition, he presented his Vermut Priorat Natur NV, from organically farmed white grapes (macabeo, pedro ximenez, and white garnacha) vinified with skin contact to extract aromas and flavours. Some of the spices/herbs include rosemary, fennel, cumin and vanilla. There is some sugar added and some neutral grain spirit. Then the mixture is aged using the solera method of blending young and old wines. Absolutely phenomenal, 16% ABV, and highly rated by me at **** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms, $29.95 per bottle in six bottle cases (private order, licensee price)

 

The Wines:

 

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

-Buil & Gine Gine Gine DOQ Priorat 2011, $22.95 licensee [unoaked, 60% old vine carignan, rest grenache]

-Buil & Gine Pleret DOQ Priorat 2006, $56.50 [old vine carignan, grenache, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah]

 

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Buil & Gine Nosis DO Rueda 2012, $19.50 [verdejo]

-Buil & Gine 17-X1 DO Montsant 2011, $21 [carignan, grenache, tempranillo aged six months in US and French oak]

-Buil & Gine Joan Gine DOQ Priorat 2009, $32.95 [90% old vine carignan plus grenache and 10% cabernet sauvignon]

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Buil & Gine Baboix Blanc DO Montsant 2012, $23.75 [grenache blanc, macabeo, chardonnay]

 

 

The Food: From the winery in Priorat, there was Neus especial olive oil, Arbequena olives, olivadas, sauces (romesco, tapenade, tomato jam), and the lovely Marcona almonds. Also quince paste. Breads and spicy Marcona almonds from Patria.

The Downside: I had raced in after attending to my wife in hospital.

The Upside: it was a great hot day for a sunny Spanish tasting!

The Contact Person: elayne@thecaseforwine.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: an all-day trip to Southbrook Vineyards to explore their current wines and some tank samples.

The Date and Time: Thursday, June 19, 2014  8:20 AM to 6PM

The Event: an all-day trip to Southbrook Vineyards to explore their current wines and some tank samples.

The Venue: Southbrook Winery

The Target Audience: 12 or so wine writers and bloggers

The Availability/Catalogue: all wines, save the tank samples, are available for sale via the winery. Some are at the LCBO.

The Quote/Background: We left later than expected and got into some traffic, but Bill Redelmeier, founder of Southbrook, settled us down on arrival by telling stories about the biodynamic nature of the winery. He was accompanied by Ann Sperling, director if winemaking and viticulture, Brian Hamilton, winemaker, and Scott Jones, vineyard manager (Scott had worked these vineyards for long before Bill actually bought the land). Bill's history of Southbrook included his philosophy that control of product quality was most important, regardless of price concerns. His family are strong believers in environment protection. He spoke about how, in biodynamics, everything is related and used to the maximum. Fir example, pests can be controlled by building up grape immune systems naturally. They reuse the water on the vineyards, recycled through filters of 40 feet of material. Their main problems revolve around humidity which creates unwanted fungus. Later, after the tour of the premises, we were refreshed with Pluck Tea Southbrook Berry Blend, a tea made and sold by Pluck, from dried red grapeskins, berries and hibiscus. And caffeine-free, enjoyed hot or iced. Later, with lunch, we had sparkling apple juice from Norfolk apples. And after the tasting we were exposed to the benefits of Bill's latest project, the bioflavia of organic grape skin powder (I already had a few litres of it back home).

The Wines: Southbrook is the first Canadian certified organic and biodynamic Niagara-based winery. It produces some four levels of wines (Connect, Triomphe, Whimsy! And Poetica) plus fruit wines and biodynamic ice wines. Some of the Triomphe wines we had only with lunch. 18 wines were poured.

 

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

-Southbrook Triomphe Chardonnay 2012, $22.95 retail.

-Southbrook Whimsy! "Richness" Chardonnay 2012, $34.95

-Southbrook Whimsy! "Renewed Vows" Cabernet Franc 2009, $34.95

-Southbrook Whimsy! Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, $34.95

-Southbrook Poetica Chardonnay 2011, $49.95

-Southbrook Poetica Red 2010, $54.95  [bordeaux-style blend]

-Southbrook Icewine 2010, $26.95 200 mL [biodynamic, wild yeast]

-Southbrook Whimsy! Semillon 2013, not yet released

-Southbrook Petit Verdot 2013, not yet released

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Southbrook Triomphe Cabernet Franc 2012, $21.95 retail.

-Southbrook Triomphe Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, $22.95 retail.

-Southbrook Whimsy! Winemakers' White 2012, $34.95 [chardonnay/semillon/muscat]

-Southbrook Whimsy! "Married Young" 2009, $34.95 [cab sauv/cab franc]

-Southbrook Connect White 2012, $14.95 LCBO [vidal/gewurztraminer]

-Southbrook Connect Red 2012, $15.95 LCBO [6 grape varietals]

-Southbrook Whimsy! Syrah 2013, not yet released

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Southbrook Triomphe Cabernet Franc Rose 2012, $19.95 retail.

-Southbrook Triomphe Sauvignon Blanc 2013, $21.95 retail.

 

The Food: sandwiches and salads, cakes and bars for dessert.

The Downside: the QEW gets worse every week...

The Upside: I had not been since the 2008 opening, and it was great to re-connect with the changes in the winery.

The Contact Person: bill@southbrook.com; susan@thesirengroup.com; laurie@thesirengroup.com.

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 91.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: a retrospective vertical tasting of Kacaba syrahs, VQA produced in Vineland Niagara.

The Date and Time: Friday, June 20, 2014  10:30 AM to 1:30 PM

The Event: a retrospective vertical tasting of Kacaba syrahs, VQA produced in Vineland Niagara.

The Venue: LCBO Scrivener Square

The Target Audience: members of the Wine Writers Circle of Canada.

The Availability/Catalogue: some of these wines are still available at the winery, and some prices have been given below. We also tasted some tank samples from the 2013 vintage, from three different vineyards.

The Quote/Background: Kacaba has been renowned for its syrahs, so the WWCC prevailed upon their winemaker, John Tummon (who was responsible for more than half of the vintages), to lead us in a seminar-tasting with Q & A about every one of the 17 wines. It was instructive and informative. The winery began in 1996, and soon made its first syrahs. The original winemaker was Sue Ann Staff, followed by Jim Warren, and eventually in 2005 John Tummon came aboard.

The Wines: In 2005, no syrah was harvested. The 2001 showed ladybug and is not rated, but it was discussed.

 

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

-Kacaba Syrah 2000, harv. Oct 26

-Kacaba Syrah 2006, harv. Sep 30, 12.2% ABV

-Kacaba Syrah 2007 Proprietor's Reserve, harv. Oct 3, 12.8% ABV

-Kacaba Syrah 2010 Reserve Main Vineyard, harv. Sept 27, 13.1% ABV, co-fermented (as are all below) 5% Viognier $69.95

-Kacaba Syrah 2010 Single Vineyard, harv. Sept 29, 13.9% ABV, 5% Viognier $39.95

-Kacaba Syrah 2012, harv. Oct 2, 13.7% ABV, 5% Viognier $39.95

-Kacaba Syrah 2013 Terrace Vineyard, harv. Oct 26, 7% Viognier [barrel sample]

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Kacaba Syrah 2002, harv. Oct 7, 14.3% ABV

-Kacaba Syrah 2004 Reserve, harv. Oct 25, 13.8% ABV

-Kacaba Syrah 2009 Single Vineyard, harv. Oct 30, 12.9% ABV, $29.99

-Kacaba Syrah 2011 PS Flats Vineyard, harv. Oct 4, 12.9% ABV, 5% Viognier $29.95

-Kacaba Syrah 2011 Ravine/Main Vineyards, harv. Oct 8, 13.3% ABV, 5% Viognier $29.95

-Kacaba Syrah 2013 Main Vineyard, harv. Oct 26, 7% Viognier [barrel sample]

-Kacaba Syrah 2013 Flats Vineyard, harv. Oct 26, 7% Viognier [barrel sample]

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Kacaba Syrah 2003, harv. Nov 4, 12% ABV

-Kacaba Syrah 2008, harv. Oct 23, 12.4% ABV

 

The Contact Person: winemaker@kacaba.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 90.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: The 12th Annual Churchill Cellars Portfolio Tasting

 

The Date and Time: Monday, May 12, 2014  3Pm to 7PM

The Event: The 12th Annual Churchill Cellars Portfolio Tasting

The Venue: Ed Mirvish Theatre

The Target Audience: clients, subscribers to the Imbibers' Report, wine writers.

The Availability/Catalogue: just about everything is at the LCBO via the general list or Vintages. There is direct delivery for Sue-Ann State Estate Winery.

The Quote/Background: It was a garish location, but then that's the wine business – very elegant and stylish, very old style too.

The Wines: I did not taste all the wines, nor the mixed drinks.

 

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

-C.H. Berres Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese 2011 Mosel

-First Press Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Napa

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Willm Riesling Reserve 2012 Alsace

-Willm Gewurztraminer Reserve 2012 Alsace

-Fresita Sparkling Wine NV Chile

-Guy Saget Sancerre 2012

-Sue-Ann Staff Estate Sassy and Sparkling Riesling 2011

-Sue-Ann Staff Estate Sparkling & Icy 2011

-Sue-Ann Staff Estate Viognier Riesling 2011

-Marques de Riscal Reserva 2008 Rioja

-Chivite Gran Feudo Reserva 2007 Navarra

-Fog Head Highlands Chardonnay 2011 Monterey

-Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay 2012 Livermore Valley

-Wente Southern Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Livermore Valley

-Alpine Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Marlborough

-Deakin Estate Shiraz 2013 Victoria

-Chapel Hill Bush Vine Grenache 2011 McLaren Vale

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Weinhaus Ress Riesling Trocken 2012 Rheingau

-Caliterra Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Valle Central Chile

-Veramonte Chardonnay 2013 Casablanca Valley Chile

-Sue-Ann Staff Estate Pinot Grigio 2012

-Sue-Ann Staff Estate Merlot 2010

-Sue-Ann Staff Estate Cabernet Franc 2010

 

The Food: hey – it seemed to be the same food platter from the Greek show (Cheese Boutique), plus some buns with meat.

The Downside: I had just come from the Greek show, so I was selective in tasting here.

The Upside: a good chance to taste the Ontario wines.

The Contact Person: mark@churchillcellars.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Lifford's Grand Tasting 2014

The Date and Time: Tuesday, May 6, 2PM to 5 PM

The Event: Lifford's Grand Tasting 2014

The Venue: Roy Thomson Hall

The Target Audience: restaurants/sommeliers

The Availability/Catalogue: all of the wines are in consignment, or private orders, or at Vintages. The catalogue had all the wines in retail prices.

The Quote/Background: Lifford has had its Grand Tasting for almost a decade, each May. They skipped Toronto last year, but have branched out to Ottawa and other places. Here it was a fundraiser for a charity at night, and the trade attendees were also asked to contribute $20 each. It was a good chance to catch up with their wines, even though many were showcased at other trade shows. I was on a hunt for Hispanic wines on behalf of Bloom Restaurant (although I paid my own way), so took better notes of the offerings [see below] and dabbled about with the rest of the wines. There were almost 300 wines, along with some spirits and liqueurs. Here were the wines I really enjoyed – from Australia, the Kiss Me Kate Chardonnay 2013 from Shingleback ($29.95 retail) and the Hollick Ravenswood Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 ($79.95). From Canada, I had had Bachelder Chardonnays through a number of venues (LCBO labs, Somewhereness) but thought I would try the Chardonnay Willamette Valley 2011 from Oregon ($29.95 and delicious). It had been awhile since I last tried the glorious Benjamin Bridge Brut 2009 from Nova Scotia ($47.95)and I was not disappointed. Domaine Queylus from Ontario showed off nicely with  Cabernet Franc Merlot Reserve 2011 and the Merlot Cabernet Franc Reserve 2010 (both $45). Painted Rock Syrah 2011 excelled ($56.95) as did Redstone Vineyards excellent Meritage 2010 (rated 91+ by me, $39.95). The range of Sancerres from Alain Gueneau was terrific: La Guiberte 2013 ($28.99) and Les Griottes 2013 ($39.99) led the range, but were excelled by the Sancerre Blanc Cuvee Eloi 2012 ($56.99). Domaine Duclaux Chateauneuf du Pape 2007 probably took the best red wine of the show award (if there was one), a mere $53.99 in price. Argentiera Bolgheri led off the international style of Italian wines with their Superiore DOC 2010 ($89.99), challenged by Castiglion del Bosco's Brunello di Montalcino 2009 ($62.50), Felsina's Colonia 2007 ($208.99!!), Pio Cesare's Barolo Ornato 2009 ($134.99), and Speri's Amarone Classico Monte Sant'Urbano 2009 ($74.99). As for Italian sweeties, I enjoyed Donnafugata's Ben Rye 2011 ($47.99) and Marchesi di Gresy's L'Altro Moscato 2007 ($59.99). Some of the US wines I had at the California show. Here, I enjoyed very much K Vintners Viognier 2012 (barrel fermented, $51.99) and Honig's Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 ($61.99). Pine Ridge's Dijon Clones Chardonnay 2012 was terrific in its complexity ($46.99), Of note were two "licensee only" wines, available via the LCBO: Quinta do Portal Peccatore Douro 2009 +361980 ($10.59) and Zinck Eichberg Gewurztraminer 2010 +373522 ($33.88).

 

The Wines: I did not try all the wines, nor did I try any spirits and liqueurs.

 

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

-Humberto Canale Winery Estate Malbec 2013 Argentina, $16.99 retail

-Vina Sena 2010 Chile, $119.99 retail

-Vina Echeverria Limited Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Chile, $36.99 retail

-Quinta do Portal Frontaria Douro Red, $14.95 retail Vintages

-Quinta do Portal Portal Reserva Douro Red, $21.95 retail Vintages

-Bodegas Pinord Clos Torribas Crianza 2010 Spain, $15.99

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Finca Decero Syrah 2011 Argentina, $24.99 retail

-Finca Decero Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Argentina, $24.99 retail

-Finca Decero Mini Ediciones Petit Verdot 2011 Argentina, $44.99 retail

-Finca Decero Amano 2010 Argentina, $79.99 retail

-Humberto Canale Winery Black River Malbec 2013 Argentina, $12.99 retail

-Humberto Canale Winery Estate Pinot Noir 2012 Argentina, $15.99 retail

-Humberto Canale Winery Merlot Gran Reserva 2011 Argentina, $33.99 retail

-Humberto Canale Winery Malbec Denario Reserva 2012 Argentina, $16.99 retail

-Vina Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Chile, $22.99 retail

-Vina Echeverria Syrah Reserva 2011 Chile, $17.99 retail

-Vina La Rosa La Capitana Carmenere 2012 Chile, $17.99 retail

-Bodegas Pinord +Nature White Organic Penedes 2013, $29.99 retail

-Bodegas Pinord +Nature Red Organic Penedes 2013, $32.99 retail

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Finca Decero Malbec 2011 Argentina, $23.99 retail

-Vina Arboleda Chardonnay 2012 Chile, $19.99 retail

-Vina Echeverria Classic Carmenere 2012 Chile, $14.99 retail

-Vina Echeverria Pinot Noir Reserva 2012 Chile, $17.99 retail

-Vina Echeverria Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2011 Chile, $17.99 retail

-Vina La Rosa La Palma Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Chile, $11.99 retail

 

The Food: mostly international cheeses (Stilton, Manchego) with Canadian cheeses, crackers, nuts, and two relish sweet dips (apple and rhubarb?).

The Downside: there were too many wines to grapple with, and it was hard to focus on quality wines-by-the-glass labels. Maybe they could all be on the same tables?

The Upside: there was room to manoeuvre.

The Contact Person: www.lifford.com or steve@liffordwine.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89.

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JUNE 21, 2014

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JUNE 21, 2014

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By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com.

Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium

"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1994. My LCBO 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. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

 

 

====?>>> ** BEST WINE VALUE OF THE RELEASE *UNDER* $20

 

Dr.Hermann Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese 2007 Pradikatswein Moselle, +313528, $18.95: a bargain at this price, twist top, 8% ABV, perfectly Mosel and perfect for summer, mid-weight off-sweet. Framed best with cheese and fruit desserts, or as a sipper. It has aged very well with intense Riesling tones. QPR: 91.

 

====?>>> ** BEST WINE VALUE OF THE RELEASE *OVER* $20

 

Schloss Schonborn Marcobrunn Riesling Kabinett 2008 Rheingau, +928861, $21.95 9.5%ABV

 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

1.Eau Vivre Chardonnay 2010 VQA Similkameen Valley BC, +367656, $18.95: good integration of woody toast and fruit, this bottle also shows aging patterns. Ready now. 12.7% ABV. QPR: 89.

2.Angels Gate Mountainview Riesling 2009 VQA Beamsville Bench, +373175, $16.95: dry mode for the most part, aged well since the Star tasting note. Twist top. QPR: 89.

3.Peninsula Ridge Beal Vineyards Inox Reserve Chardonnay 2010 VQA Beamsville Bench, +7328, $18.95: a nifty stainless steel aged chardonnay from a single vineyard, purity of expression with no oak. 13.4% ABV. QPR: 89.

4.Tar & Roses Pinot Grigio 2013 Central Victoria, +282723, $19.95: pinot grigio shows its true colours here (as in pink-Gris), lots of orchard fruit and body. Twist top, 14% ABV. QPR: 89.

5.Yalumba Organic Viognier 2012 South Australia, +288217, $18.95: affordable flowers and concentrated fruit, organic, twist top, 14.5% ABV. QPR: 89.

6.Cape Point Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2012 WO Cape Point South Africa, +285221, $15.95: done up mostly in Cali style with tamed citric and herb tones. Cork finish, 13.5% ABV. QPR: 89.

 

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

1.Pondview Cabernet/Merlot Reserve 2011 VQA Niagara, +307561, $18.95: quality toast notes and smoke, BBQ wine, depth at 14.3% ABV, twist top. QPR: 89.

2.Chateau Ste. Michelle Syrah 2011 Columbia Valley, +949651, $17: plenty of black fruit showing in this restaurant-wine, 13.5% ABV, smooth quality. QPR: 89.

3.Laura Catena La Posta Angel Paulucci Vineyard Malbec 2011 Ugarteche Mendoza, +75515, $15.95: hard to beat this quality for the price. Very ripe and delicious, intense flavours. Twist top, 13.5% ABV. QPR: 89.

4.Brampton Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 WO Coastal Region, +315903, $15.95: another nifty little pocket wine that is soft and fruity in the Cali style, 14% ABV, twist top. QPR: 89.

5.Chateau de Gaudou Grand Lignee Malbec/Merlot 2010 Cahors, +370239, $18.95: 85% malbec, 14% ABV, 14 months in oak. Needs time, but affordable now. Dark tones. QPR: 89.

6.La Guardiense Santramondi Janare Guardiolo Rosso Riserva 2008 Campania, +375501, $16.95: good value for an aged wine, but it still needs time. Smokey, dark fruit, will come around in a couple more years. 13% ABV. QPR: 89.

7.Bodegas Muriel Reserva 2008 Rioja, +276030, $19.95: another nicely aged wine, all tempranillo, 13.5% ABV, well-priced. QPR: 89.

8.Mas Que Vinos Ercavio Tempranillo Roble 2011 Vino de La Tierra de Castillia, +67504, $16.95: uses both French and US oak barrels, 14.5%. Dark fruit shows, plummy, long finish, all tempranillo. Value. QPR: 89.

 

 

VALUE: "RESTAURANT READY" or "BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE" over $20

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

 

1.Bachelder Saunders Vineyard Chardonnay 2011 VQA Beamsville Bench, +324103, $44.95 retail.

2.Nobilo Icon Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Marlborough, +912337, $25.95.

3.Eric Forest L'Ame Forest Pouilly-Fuisse 2011, +301911, $31.95.

4.La Grille Pouilly-Fume 2012, +374470, $24.95

5.Tamaya Gran Reserva Syrah 2011 Limari Valley, +374306, $21.95.

6.Dog Point Pinot Noir 2011 Marlborough, +329672, $49.95.

7.Chateau Boutisse 2010 Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, +368175, $39.95.

8.Pascal Marchand Gevrey-Chambertin 2010, +286450, $67.95.

9.Paolo Conterno Riva del Bric Barolo 2009, +172783, $42.95.

10.Scacciadiavoli Montefalco Rosso 2009 Umbria, +372458, $21.95.

11.Muga Seleccion Especial Reserva 2009 Rioja, +921536, $39.95.

12.Vina Herminia Excelsus 2009 Rioja, +50567, $21.95.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: New Wines of Greece: eternally modern May 2014

The Date and Time: Monday, May 12, 2014   11:30 AM to 3:30 PM

The Event: New Wines of Greece: eternally modern

The Venue: Sudbury-Glass Factory

The Target Audience: wine trade

The Availability/Catalogue: once again, it was the Groupe Kolonaki agency with the most labels and wines. There were 10 agents, some with only one label, and 8 wineries looking for agents. The catalogue had no table numbers, nor page numbers, or prices. By and large, the wines were on the tables in listed order.

The Quote/Background: There was excellent food and a great crowd. The buzz was loud.

The Wines: I focused on older reds.

 

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

-Boutari Santorini 2013

-Ktima Papaioannou Estate Nemea 2007

-Ktima Papaioannou Old Vines 2006

-Katsaros Estate Red 2006

-Domaine Sigalas Santorini Barrel 2013

-Domaine Mercouri Foloi 2013

-Domaine Spiropoulos Nemea 2009

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Dom. Costa Lazaridi Amethystos White 2012

-Dom. Costa Lazaridi Oenodea Red 2010

-Alpha Estate Red 2009

-Alpha Estate Xinomavro Reserve Old Vignes 2009

-Argyros Estate Santorini Assyrtiko 2013

-Estate Argyros 2011

-Boutari Naoussa 2009

-Boutari Grande Reserve 2008

-Douloufakis Femina White 2013

-Kir Yianni Estate 2010 Red

-Mediterra Xerolithia 2013

-Amalia Sparkling Brut

-Biblio Chora Estate White 2013

-Katsaros Estate Merlot 2008

-Parparoussis Nemea Reserve 2005

-Domaine Sigalas Santorini 2013

-Semeli Wines Feast Moschofilero 2013

-Semeli Nemea Reserve 2010

-Domaine Mercouri Red 2010

-Domaine Spiropoulos Mantinia 2013

-Gaia Thalassitis 2013

-Gaia Agiorgitiko by Gaia 2012

-Chateau Porto Carras2005

-Ktima Pavlidis Drama Red Agiorgitiko 2010

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Dom. Costa Lazaridi Amethystos Red 2010

-Apelia Moscofilero 2013

-Santo Santorini Assyrtiko 2013

-Santo Santorini Nykteri 2013

-Biblia Chora Areti Red 2009

-Domaine Gerovassiliou Estate White 2013

-Katsaros Estate White 2012

-Lyrarakis Winery Kotsifali-Syrah 2011

-Domaine Sigalas Assyrtiko-Athiri 2013

-Tsililis Theopetra Estate Limniona Syrah 2013

-Tsililis Theopetra Estate Syrah Limniona Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

 

The Food: dim sum (BBQ pork, beef ribs, octopus, pork dumplings), oysters, all from Cool City Oysters and Chef Michael Pataran. Platters from the Cheese Boutique (sausage, charcuterie, salamis, international cheeses, rusks.

The Downside: it got hot really fast, with all the crowds and no air circulating. One fan turned around very lazily.

The Upside: good to stay in touch with the evolving freshness of Greek wines.

The Contact Person: gathanas@allaboutgreekwine.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 88.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Tasting Rapeneau Family Champagnes at Reds in May

The Date and Time: Wednesday, May 21, 2014   Cinq a Sept

The Event: Tasting Rapeneau Family Champagnes

The Venue: Reds Midtown

The Target Audience: invitees (media, clients)

The Availability/Catalogue: both wines are at the LCBO, the rose is at Vintages

The Quote/Background: The Rapeneau family is France's largest independent vineyard-order and producer of Champagne. Up until 5 years ago, all of the company's growth had come from the French domestic market. Now, because of exports to the UK, the US, Canada and Asia, Rapeneau family Champagnes are ranked #6 in sales world wide. Jean-Remy Rapeneau, who is in Canada for a week, dropped in to talk about his wines and the future of Champagnes.

The Wines:

 

-Champagne Charles de Cazanove Rose Brut Tradition NV, +369108 Vintages, $54.95: rated four stars (91 points plus), 50% pinot noir, 20% pinot meunier, 15% coteaux champenois rouge, and 15% chardonnay. Orchard fruit.

 

-Champagne Victoire Brut Prestige NV, +190025 LCBO, $39.95: rated three and a half stars (89 – 90), 65% pinot noir, 20% chardonnay, 15% pinot meunier. Floral and delicate.

 

The Food: a wide range of charcuterie (salamis, sausage, prosciutto, pate), toast points, candied pecans, chutneys, cheeses, olives, cornichons, lobster and guacamole on tortillas, focaccia salad. There may have been more, but I had to leave.

The Contact Person: elayne@thecaseforwine.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: New Zealand in a Glass, Toronto May 2014.

The Date and Time: Thursday, May 8, 2014  1:30 PM to 5 PM

The Event: New Zealand in a Glass, Toronto 2014.

The Venue: St. James Cathedral Centre

The Target Audience: wine trade

The Availability/Catalogue: all wines are available in Ontario, but through different distribution channels.

The Quote/Background: There was a regional tour of New Zealand pinot noir wines, a self-pour experience of some 16 wines from 7 regions, along with a teaching booklet. I have folded my tastings into the list below, but I should point out that Coal Pit was way above the others in my scoring.

The Wines: There were about two dozen wineries pouring over 100 wines. I did not taste them all.

 

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

-Ostler Vineyard Caroline's Pinot Noir 2001 Waitaki Valley

-Waimea Estate Pinot Noir 2012 Nelson

-Saint Clair Pioneer Block Awatere Valley Pinot Noir 2012 Marlborough

-Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir Waipara Valley 2011

-Coal Pit Tiwha Pinot Noir 2011 Central Otago  [my fave]

-Akarua Brut Sparkling Central Otago NV

-Akarua Rose Brut Sparkling Central Otago NV

-Hunter's Wines Miru Miru Sparkling Marlborough NV

-Lawson's Dry Hills Reserve Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013

-Marisco The Kings Legacy Chardonnay Marlborough 2012

-Mud House The Woolshed Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2011

-Te Pa Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013

-Te Pa Oke Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2012

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Felton Road Block 3 Pinot Noir 2011 Central Otago

-Akura Pinot Noir 2011 Central Otago

-Villa Maria Cellar Selection Pinot Noir 2010 Marlborough

-Whitehaven Pinot Noir 2012 Marlborough

-Astrolabe Valleys Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013

-Babich The Patriarch Cabernet Sauvignon Hawke's Bay 2011

-Nobilo Icon Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013

-Craggy Range Te Kahu Gimblett Gravels Merlot/Cabernet Franc Hawke's Bay 2010

-Craggy Range Te Muna Road Sauvignon Blanc Martinborough 2012

-Elephant Hill Syrah Hawke's Bay 2013

-Forrest Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012

-Hunter's Chardonnay Marlborough 2012

-Lawson's Dry Hills Gewurztraminer Marlborough 2011

-Loveblock Pinot Noir Central Otago 2012

-Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvee Brut Hawke's Bay NV

-Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvee Rose NV

-Sileni Estates Cellar Selection Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc NV

-Te Pa Pinot Gris Marlborough 2013

-Te Pa Pinot Noir Rose Marlborough 2013

-Te Pa Pinot Noir Marlborough 2011

-Marisco The Kings Wrath Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012

-Matua Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Astrolabe Province Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013

-Elephant Hill Le Phant Red Hawke's Bay 2012

-Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013

 

The Food: catered by Daniel et Daniel with an assortment of cold cuts and cold pizzas, breads. The Dairy Farmers of Canada contributed Le Riopelle de l'Isle (PQ), Five Brothers (ON), and Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar (PEI).

The Downside: hot pizza food smells in the self-pour area took some getting use to.

The Upside: there was a small, but brief, food pairing seminar with Chef Matthew Sullivan, formerly of Skin & Bones. There was lamb shank and lamb filet. The two regional blends from Marlborough went with both; the other two single vineyards were debatable (the Akarua went better with the lamb shank, the Marisco went better with the filet)

The Contact Person: nzwine@ketchin.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 88.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Montefalco Sagrantino: Umbria's Jewel, wine tasting in Toronto June

The Date and Time: Wednesday June 4, 2014   noon to 4 Pm

The Event: Montefalco Sagrantino: Umbria's Jewel wine tasting

The Venue: Gardiner Museum

The Target Audience: members of the Wine Writers' Circle of Canada for the first hour

The Availability/Catalogue: there were six wineries, three had agents. Each winery showed a Ross and a Sagrantino. Some had other wines as well (see below).

The Quote/Background: Sagrantino wines are noted for their heavy but polished tannins. The event was sponsored by the Italian Chamber of Commerce (Ontario) and Consorzio Tutela Vini Montefalco, a 53 member group.

The Wines:

 

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

-Colle Ciocco Montefalco Sagrantino 2007 Umbria

-Fattoria Colsanto Montefalco Sagrantino 2008 Umbria

-Perticaia Montefalco Sagrantino 2009 Umbria

-Scacciadiavoli Montefalco Sagrantino 2007 Umbria – Vintages $36.95

-Arnaldo Caprai Montefalco Sagrantino Collepiano 2008 Umbria

-Antonelli San Marco Montefalco Sagrantino 2007 Umbria

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Colle Ciocco Montefalco Clargnamo Bianco Umbria 2013

-Colle Ciocco Montefalco Sagrantino Passito 2007 Umbria

-Fattoria Colsanto Montefalco Rosso 2010 Umbria

-Perticaia Montefalco Rosso Riserva 2009 Umbria

-Scacciadiavoli Montefalco Rosso 2009 Umbria – Vintages $19.95

-Arnaldo Caprai Montefalco Rosso 2010 Umbria

-Antonelli San Marco Montefalco Rosso 20010 Umbria

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

--Colle Ciocco La Cantina Montefalco Rosso 2009 Umbria

 

The Food: international cheeses, crackers, breads, veggies and dips.

The Downside: it was too good a summery day to stay indoors, but a job is a job...

The Upside: great event space, with room, and a select group of wines to allow for more time.

The Contact Person: tinelli@italchambers.ca

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Toronto Hunt presents an Evening in Argentina, with Rutini wines.

The Date and Time: Wednesday, May 7, 2014  6Pm to 10PM

The Event: Toronto Hunt presents an Evening in Argentina, with Rutini wines.

The Venue: Toronto Hunt

The Target Audience: members and their guests, invited media.

The Availability/Catalogue: all wines are available through the agency, The Case for Wine.

The Quote/Background: there were a few dances by Tango Soul performers Bryant Lopez and Faye Lavin that scored very highly with the audience. Chef Natalia Machado, from Buenos Aires, is currently executive chef at L'Atelier d'Argentina in Montreal. She did the meals for here and for another club in Hamilton on the weekend – all in celebration of Argentine food and Rutini Argentine wines.

The Wines: We had a reception wine (Trumpeter Sauvignon Blanc 2013) plus four other wines with the meal. Wines are available for purchase through www.thecaseforwine.com

 

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

-Cruz Alta Gran Reserva Chardonnay 2012, $21 13.8% ABV

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Trumpeter Sauvignon Blanc 2013, $20  13.5%

-Cruz Alta Gran Reserva Malbec 2011, $21 14.2%

-Cruz Alta Chairman's Blend 2011, $24 13.5%

-Rutini Encuentro Barrel Blend 2009, $39 14.5%

 

The Food: Here's the menu -

Reception – empanaditas de mar, with Trumpeter Sauvignon Blanc 2013 (balanced flavours)

First course – mini crab cakes, grilled lemon and fennel, with Cruz Alta GR Chardonnay (ripe and full, lots of engaging French oak).

Second course – smoked lamb chop, paprika, sweet corn, fava beans, with Cruz Alta GR Malbec (juicy and succulent)

Third course – seared rib eye steak with Brussels sprouts, bacon, spiced polenta, with Cruz Alta Chairman's Blend (mostly malbec, a big wine) and Encuentro Barrel Blend (bordeaux-styled blend with 40% malbec, all new French oak – mounds of flavours).

Fourth course – ricotta and lemon cream almond crumble

Coffees

The Downside: why the dessert? There was no sweetie with it, and we could have had some cheeses for the wines. Just wondering.

The Upside: a chance to uncover Chef Natalia's cooking, beyond her appearances on Chopped TV show.

The Contact Person: elayne@thecaseforwine.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 87.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Schuchmann Wines Georgia Tsinandali 2013 - review

Schuchmann Wines Georgia Tsinandali 2013 Georgia (AMZ-Whiz Trading), about $16.95: Tsinandali is a wine region in Georgia; it is the home of Rkatsiteli (possibly once the world's most

widely planted white wine grape variety) and Mtsvane, both white wines that are used in this blend. The former, also made into wine in New York's Finger Lakes, is highly acidic,

lending citric and apple tones. The latter is fairly fruity and aromatic. The blend is complementary: the green attack of the Rkatsiteli seems to be perfectly balanced by the

orange stone fruit (peaches, apricots) of the Mtsvane. The upfront fruit and flowers on the nose and entry is mellowed by the stoney character on the mid-palate, and it finishes

refreshingly citrus. A pretty good sipper and even better with seafood as a first course. This particular wine has a pale clear colour emphasizing its fresh nature; it is only

six months old, from the 2013 vintage. It should be served chilled. It reminds me of a new style Ontario Vidal or a Vermentino from Italy. 13% ABV, with a cork closure. Stainless fermentation and storage at the winery, which is a tourist destination with name recognition; it appears to be worth a visit. Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JUNE 7, 2014

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR  JUNE 7, 2014

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com.

Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium

"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1994. My LCBO 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. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

 

 

====?>>> ** BEST WINE VALUE OF THE RELEASE *UNDER* $20

 

Lanzerac Chardonnay 2011 WO Stellenbosch, +971929, $16.95: yummy BF chardonnay with 11 months French oak BA, cork finish, 14% ABV. Butterscotch and wood tones, naturally. QPT: 91+.

 

====?>>> ** BEST WINE VALUE OF THE RELEASE *OVER* $20

 

Chateau Roc St-Michel 2009 Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classe, +366639, $28.95

 

 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

1.Torino Estate Don David Reserve Torrontes 2012 Cafayate, +727677, $13.95: good depth and long finish, 14% ABV, firm and fruity, the wine of Toronto! Gold Medalist, cork finish. QPR: 89.

2.Nugan King Valley Frasca's Lane Chardonnay 2012 Victoria, +288191, $19.95: personable wooded chardonnay for those who like concentrated flavours. Twist top. QPR: 89.

3.Pierre Lieubeau La Grille Single Estate Muscadet 2012, +377051, $15.95: good bracing acidity, try with oysters. 12% ABV, twist top. From a delimited area. QPR: 89.

4.E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2012, +290296, $18.95: people have lined up for this modestly-priced wine. 13.5%, cork finish, good value. 65% viognier, lotsa peaches and flowers, and succulence. QPR: 89.

5.La Cappuccina Soave 2013, +81489, $15.95: while some have said "you don't go to Italy for white wine", this one is surprisingly fresh with melons and citric tones. First course wine. 12% ABV, cork finish. QPR: 89.

 

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

1.Creekside Laura's Red 2010 VQA Niagara, +117960, $19.95: over the years, people have beaten a path to Creekside for this wine: a cab sauv/merlot/syrah/malbec blend. It is over-the-top dense, with concentrated jammy black fruit, mocha and toast (hmmm, sounds like breakfast). Twist top, 13.5% ABV. QPR: 90.

2.Palo Alto Winemaker's Selection 2010 Maule, +376236, $18.95: this tight tasting Chilean expression of wine is a good price for something to lay down a bit. Components are shiraz/cabsauv/carmenere/merlot/petite sirah, wrapped in 14.5% ABV with a cork finish. Good price. QPR: 89.

3.Chapoutier Domaine Tournon Mathilda Shiraz 2011 Victoria, +327395, $19.95: very syrah-like, Northern Rhone-ish, 13% ABV, and value-driven. Twist top. QPR: 90.

4.The Winner's Tank Shiraz 2012 Langhorne Creek, +374348, $17.95: another very intense syrah wine with MVC flavours of black fruit and spices. 14.8% ABV, twist top. QPR: 89.

5.Zonte's Footstep Lake Doctor Shiraz 2012 Langhorne Creek, +72975, $16.95: highly acclaimed medal winner, affordable value, some viognier added (small print on back label), twist top, 14.5% ABV. Ripe, rich, red juiciness. QPR: 89.

6.Boyer Domergue Carignanissime de Centeilles 2010 Minervois, +41913, $18.95: concentrated garrigue on the nose and palate, resolving on finish with toast. Very good wine with length, substance for sipping. 14.5% ABV. QPR: 89.

7.Feudi San Pio Valpolicella Classico Ripasso Superiore 2012, +181446, $17.95: the LCBO "ripasso of the month". QPR: 89.

8.Maria Manuela Quinta do Roncao Reserva 2011 Douro, +147942, $15.95: with soft and fruity tones, this high performance wine has strong North American appeal. Made from the Port grapes of T.franca, T.roriz and T.nacional, 14% ABV. QPR: 89.

9.Breca Old Vines Garnacha 2010 Catalayud, +329086, $19.95: vines are almost 90 years old. The LCBO "garnacha of the month". QPR: 89.

 

VALUE: "RESTAURANT READY" or "BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE" over $20

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

 

1.Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2012 Marlborough, +366310, $29.95 retail.

2.Domaine Chenevieres Chablis 2012, +365031, $22.95.

3.Terredora di Paola Loggia della Serra Greco di Tufo 2012, +983197, $20.95.

4.Thirty Bench Red 2011 VQA Beamsville Bench, +320986, $24.

5.I Latina Syrah 2010 Cachapoal Valley Chile, +371120, $22.95.

6.Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier Lieu di Malakoff Shiraz 2011 Pyrennes Victoria, +290874,$55.95.

7.Grant Burge The Holy Trinity Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvedre 2010 Barossa, +236257, $29.95.

8.Wynns Coonawarra Estate Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, +84996, $27.95.

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Annual Toronto Portfolio tasting of Tawse wines

The Date and Time: Monday, May 5, 2014  3Pm to 7PM

The Event: Annual Toronto Portfolio tasting of Tawse wines

The Venue: Spoke Club

The Target Audience: wine trade and media

The Availability/Catalogue: all wines are in stock

The Quote/Background: the tasting was just ahead of a dinner showcasing the various wines.

The Wines: I did not try every wine. Prices are licensee.

 

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

-Tawse Limestone Ridge Spark Riesling 2012, $16.84

-Tawse Riesling Carly's Block 2012, $26.97

-Tawse Pinot Noir Lauritizen Vineyard 2010, $37.95

-Tawse Cabernet Franc Van Bers Vineyard 2009, $42.17

-Tawse Meritage 2010, $50.61

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Tawse Spark [blend] 2011 sparkling, $21.06 [chard & riesling]

-Tawse Riesling Limestone Ridge 2012, $26.97

-Tawse Chardonnay Quarry Road 2011, $30.35 [organic]

-Tawse Chardonnay Robyn's Block 2011, $38.79 [organic]

-Tawse Cabernet Merlot 2011, $17.69

-Tawse Pinot Noir Grower's Blend, $22.75

-Tawse Merlot David's Block 2010, $42.17 [organic]

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Tawse Gewurztraminer Frost Vineyard 2012, $16.84

-Tawse Chardonnay 2011, $21.06

-Tawse Pinot Noir Quarry Road Vineyard 2010, $29.51 [organic]

-Tawse Cabernet Franc Grower's Blend 2011, $22.75

 

The Food: charcuterie, sausages, cheese, biscuits, nuts.

The Downside: My palate had just come from another portfolio tasting.

The Upside: a chance to taste two dozen Tawse wines in Toronto

The Contact Person: d.lafleur@tawsewinery.ca

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 87.

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Tasting of wines from the South Coast portion of Lake Erie (Ontario South Coast Wineries and Growers Association and WCO)

The Date and Time: Tuesday, May 27, 2014  8AM to 6PM

The Event: A tasting of wines from the South Coast portion of Lake Erie, centered around Port Dover, sponsored by Ontario South Coast Wineries and Growers Association and Wine Country Ontario plus local suppliers.

The Venue: Aboard the Kayloe

The Target Audience: select wine media from Toronto and Niagara

The Availability/Catalogue: wines are at the winery, most are for sale or will be soon (we tasted some tank samples).

The Quote/Background: There were welcoming words from Mike McArthur, President of OSCWGA, Magdalena Kaiser-Smit from OWC, Doug Beatty from Burning Kiln, and the Mayor of Port Dover (thankfully, not yet in re-election speechifying mode). Judy Buck, the administrator of the Ontario South Coast Wineries and Growers Association, said: "Magdalena Kaiser-Smit was a huge help, we appreciated her advice and the funding from WCO. We also want to thank our other sponsors who helped us, Ontario Southwest Tourism, Norfolk County, and the County of Haldimand. In addition to this each winery also contributed financially, as well as Doug Beatty from Burning Kiln Winery. Here are some facts about our area:

* We have 11 wineries in total (2 in Elgin, 1 Haldimand, 8 in Norfolk)

of these 8 are open, the other 3 are in various stages of "opening" but all

are in production.)

* We are both grape and fruit wineries, with 3 wineries that are

exclusively fruit wine including ciders.

* We have about 130 acres of grapes, these are located in both Elgin

and Norfolk counties with the majority being in Norfolk counties."

 

The Wines:

 

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

-Burning Kiln Stick Shaker Savagnin 2012, $24.95

-Burning Kiln Stick Shaker Savagnin 2013, $24.95

-Burning Kiln Kiln Hanger – The Sequel 2010, $59.95, also $119.95 magnum

-Wooden Bear Bear Claw Hard Cider, $3

-Dover Vineyards Smoke & Gamble Gewurztraminer Sussreserve 2011, $24.95

-Quai du Vin Red Signature Series 2012, $12.50

-Quai du Vin Chardonnay 2012, $13.50

-Burning Kiln Chardonnay 2013, $19.95

 

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price

Rating terms):

-Burning Kiln Kiln Hanger 2011, $50

-Burning Kiln Harvest Party Red 2013, $15.95

-Burning Kiln Harvest Party White 2013, $15.95

-Burning Kiln Horse & Boat Riesling 2013, $19.95

-Burning Kiln Cab Frank 2012, $24.95

-Burning Kiln Strip Room 2012, $24.95

-Burning Kiln Chenin Blanc 2010, $24.95 500 mL sweet

-Dover Vineyards Frisky Beaver White 2012, $13.95

-Dover Vineyards Smoke & Gamble Merlot Reserve 2011, $22.75

-Dover Vineyards Smoke & Gamble Cabernet Franc Apassimento 2012, $39.95

-Bonnieheath Estate Don't Count Your Chickens [frontenac gris]2013, $18

-Quai du Vin Merlot 2012, $16

-Quai du Vin Aurore-Muscat Petillants 2013, $12.50

-Blueberry Hill Estate Blueberry 2011, $14.95

 

*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):

-Burning Kiln Riesling 2013, $19.95

-Wooden Bear Gala, $14.95 [apple]

-Golden Leaf Pinot Noir 2012, $14.80

-Golden Leaf Merlot 2012

-Golden Leaf Chambourcin 2011, $18.20

-Golden Leaf Baco Noir 2011, $18.20

-Bonnieheath Estate Seyval Blanc 2012, $16-17

-Bonnieheath Estate Off-Dry White Blend 2013, $16-18

-Bonnieheath Estate Marquette 2012, $17-19

-Bonnieheath Estate Rose 2013,

-Villa Nova Estate Trout Fly Riesling 2012, $13.95

-Villa Nova Estate Pinot Noir 2012, $15.95  

-Villa Nova Estate Norfolk Red 2013, $11.95 

-Villa Nova Estate Mystery of HRIO 2013, $11.95 [new grapes from Vineland Station]

-Blueberry Hill Estate Vidal 2012

-Wooden Bear Marechal Foch 2011

 

The Food: Caterer Liz from F.W. Knechtel flipped her lid into the water, her chafing dish lid was blown away (by the wind)! As were we by the battered perch and pan-fried perch, the local lake-fish. Other great treats included local (Norfolk) asparagus with meaty bacon, shaved roast beef, antipasto skewers, local cheeses, French stick, focaccia, wild mushroom cheese log with local mushrooms, and a knockout dessert of rhubarb and strawbs from Urban Parisian. I accompanied my food with Quai du Vin Chardonnay and Wooden Bear Gala and Bear Claw Hard Cider. Good pairings they were with the perch!

The Downside: it was a long drive down and back, about 6 hours total.

The Upside: the cruise was great, the weather co-operated (thunderstorms were called for, but never appeared), and Transport Canada exempted us from the glassware restrictions.

The Contact Person: judy.buck@ontariosouthcoastwine.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 88.

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com