The Event: Wines of Chile trade show

The Date and Time: Tuesday, October 27, 2015  11:30 AM to 5 PM

The Event: Wines of Chile trade show

The Venue: ROM

The Target Audience: wine trade (consumers in the evening)

The Availability/Catalogue: just about all wines are available, at the LCBO or through consignment/private orders.

The Quote/Background: I attended the seminar of 10 wines, and these have been folded into the ratings below. There were special tables for those in a hurry: high end Vintages offerings, top wines for licensees, sparkling wines, and innovative wines. I did all these first before roaming about. It was a good show.

The Wines:

 

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

-Cono Sur Ocio Pinot Noir 2012 $6995 +83378

-Santa Rita Casa Real Cabernet Sauvignon $59.95  +337246

-Morande Brut Nature Casablanca Valley, $48.75   Majestic

-Morande Brut K.O. Secano Interior  $23.95  [70% pais]  Majestic

-Montes Purple Angel Colchagua Valley 2012

-Veramonte Neyen 2010 Colchagua $59   Churchill

-Siegel Unique Selection Colchagua Valley 2012 $39.95  J Cipelli

-Santa Alicia Millantu Maipo 2012  $27.95    Eurovintage

-Morande Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo 2013 $22.80  +389254 

-Indomita Zardoz Maipo 2013 $27.95   Rare Earth

-Emiliana Coyam 2012 Colchagua $29.95  +63891

-Concha y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Pinot Noir Limari 2013 $19.95  +301424

 

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

-Perez Cruz Chaski Petit Verdot Maipo Andes 2012

-Tabali Reserva Especial Tinto Limari Valley $23.95  +107540

-In Situ Signature Syrah-Mouvedre-Viognier 2013 Aconcagua $17.95  +431098

-In Situ Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon Aconcagua 2013  $20.95  +76281

-In Situ Signature Chardonnay-Viognier Aconcagua 2015  $17.95   MCO

-Morande Gran Reserva Chardonnay Casablanca 2014 $22.80   Majestic

-Morande Gran Reserva Pinot Noir Casablanca 2014 $22.80   Majestic

-Morande Edicion Limitada Carignan Loncomilla 2011 $25.12   +427971

-Montgras Intriga Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo 2012 $22.95 Vint. March 2016

-Bisquertt Tralca Premium Blend Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenere Syrah 2010 Colchagua

-Koyle Royale Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Colchagua Andes $22.95

-Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Colchagua $19.95  +322586

-Montes Sparkling Angel NV  $20   Profile

-Leyda Single Vineyard Cahuil Pinot Noir Leyda Valley 2012 $19.95 Dionysus

-Casas del Toqui Gran Reserve Terroir Selection Pinot Noir Casablanca $19.95 Vintages

-Maycas de Limari Quebrada Seca Chardonnay Limari, $30 +331520

-Maquis Lien Colchagua Valley, $29 +403881

-Montes Spring Harvest Sauvignon Blanc 2015, $14.95

-Tabali Talinay Pinot Noir 2013

-Errazuriz Aconcagua Alto Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $19.95 +203364

-Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $19.95  +335174

-Anakena Tama Viognier Cachapoal Valley 2014 $16.95

-Casas del Toqui Leyenda del Toqui red Blend $49.95

-Arboleda Pinot Noir Aconcagua Valley $19.95

-Leyda Cahuil Pinot Noir Leyda Valley 2012 $19.95

-Morande Edicion Limitada Medieterraneo del Maule 2012  $41.25

-Santa Rita SR Secret Reserve Red Blend Maipo $14.95  +431080

-Montgras Antu Grenache Carignan Syrah Colchagua Valley 2012

-Via Wines Oveja Negra Lost Barrel Blend Maule Valley 2011, $22.95

-Emiliana Organic Sparkling Wine Casablanca Valley, $17.95

-Santa Ema Amplus Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo 2012  $19.95  +76307

 

 

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

-San Pedro 35 South Organic Maipo and Rapel 2014 $12.95

-Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Maipo

-Oveja Negra Reserva Sauvignon Blanc Carmenere Maule Valley $15

-Caliterra Tributo Carmenere 2013 $16.95  +56630

-Perez Cruz Limited Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2012  $19.95   +431015

-Koyle Don Cande Cinsault 2014  $14.75

-Ventisquero Kalfu Kuda Chardonnay Leyda Valley 2014, $17.95

 

 

 

 

The Food: both cheese and chicken empanadas with sauces, charcuterie platters, cheese platters, fresh veggies and dips, breads and toasts.

The Downside: I could not taste all the wines.

The Upside: I appreciated the focus tables.

The Contact Person: lisa@androscom.com

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

COB: refers to a 5PM deadline

 

Since we all want the "youngsters" involved in WWCC, we've  used the youngsters' lingo, as defined by the Urban Dictionary --

 

In use since at least 2005.

 

cob

 

Acronym for Close of Business. Usually referring to a 5:00PM deadline.

Middle manager: "umm, if you could just get that done by COB, that would be terrrrrrrific."
Programmer: "sure, I'll get to that right away" ::what the hell, I guess I better do that right away...I'll look up COB on Urban Dictionary::

 

by middle manager March 10, 2005

 

Dean's List 2015 Part 2 - Literary Food Books - Good Food RevolutionGood Food Revolution | A sort of Canadian food and wine website

http://www.goodfoodrevolution.com/deans-list-2015-part-2-literary-food-books/

 

My part two is now out on Good food Revolution website...

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR NOVEMBER 28, 2015

 

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR  NOVEMBER 28, 2015

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

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", a guide to thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, has been 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. It is getting more difficult to endorse wines under $20 for the simple reason that the LCBO does not release many of them into the Vintages program, ones that can be deemed to be worthy of your consideration. So I will now just ADD some "under $25" suggestions, along with point values.

 

 

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

 

Stefano Farina Le Brume Langhe Rosso 2010, +360073, $16.95: good dark tones, aging well, 14.5% ABV, concentrated and smoky, excellent price. QPR: 90.

 

 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $25:

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

1.Coyote's Run Rare Vintage Chardonnay 2013 VQA Four Mile Creek, +426437, $24.95. QPR: 89.

2.Featherstone Black Sheep Riesling 2014 VQA Niagara Peninsula, +80234, $26.95: lovely complex wine, crisp lemon acidity with body but off-dry on the finish, twist top, overwhelming but underpriced. QPR: 89.

3.Domaine Ehrhart Rosenberg Gewurztraminer 2014 Alsace, +315705, $21.95. QPR: 89.

4.Domaine des Malandes Chablis 2014, +111658, $24.95. QPR: 89.

5.Cruzados Titular Vinho Branco Coheita 2013 Dao, +429985, $13.95: a bit of Christmas here with some pine tones, but otherwise floral character in a useful wine at this pricepoint. 12.5% ABV, cork closure. QPR: 88.

6.Secreto Patagonico Chardonnay 2012 Patagonia Argentina, +380055, $18.95: with all the US oak here expect some CalArg yumminess. 14% ABV, cork closure. QPR: 88.

7.Casas del Bosque Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Casablanca Valley, +974717, $13.95: twist top, 13.5% ABV, citrus and grass, typical savvy herbaceousness for MVC quality. QPR: 88.

8.Delheim Family Chenin Blanc 2014 WO Stellenbosch, +429720, $17.95: off-dry orchard fruit and citric tones, good finish that's a bit off-dry at the end. QPR: 88.

 

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $25:

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

1.Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot 2012 Columbia Valley, +263418, $17.95: packs a merlot punch, everything you'd expect (mocha, cherry-berry, soft), but a longer and food-friendly finish. 13.5% ABV, well-priced juice. QPR: 89.

2.San Esteban In Situ Signature Wines Hillside Blend 2012 Aconcagua Valley, +431098, $19.95: lush and full with a tannic finish for food, 14.5% ABV. Concentrated Euro tones of garrigue. Syrah55/mourvedre40,viognier5 blend offers a kick. QPR: 88.

3.Robert Oatley Shiraz 2013 McLaren Vale, +327387, $19.95: 14.5% ABV kicks in with some sweet mid-palate tones of mocha and black fruit. Swings either way (sip or food). QPR: 88.

4.Nederburg Manor House Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 WO Western Cape, +68767, $16.95: a straight ahead and affordable MVC cab, now almost four years old and aging well. 14.5% ABV, cork closure, tight and could use more time in the bottle. QPR: 88.

5.M. Chapoutier Les Vignes de Bila-Haut Cotes du Roussillon Villages 2014, +168716, $15.95: a refreshingly disarming Midi blend of grenache-syrah-carignan, berries and garrigue. QPR: 88.

6.Castano Solanera Vinas Viejas 2013 Yecla, +276162, $16.95: 70% monastrell with equal cabernet and grenache filling the rest. Nice and juicy, lots of berries and great black fruit over a layer of oak vanilla. QPR: 89.

 

VALUE: "RESTAURANT READY" or "BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE" over $25 RETAIL

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

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.Spy Valley Envoy Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Waihopai Valley Marlborough, +429308, $29.95 retail.

2.Huchet & Mourat Gorges Muscadet Sevre & Maine 2009, +429084, $25.95.

3.Jean-Max Roger Cuvee G.C. Sancerre 2014, +189126, $28.95.

4.Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 Napa, +936039, $159.95.

5.Barossa Valley Estate E&E Black Pepper Shiraz 2008 Barossa Valley, +731620, $89.95.

6.Chateau Bernadotte 2005 Haut-Medoc, +431775, $32.95.

7.Chateau Clarke 2009 Listrac-Medoc, +503904, $39.95.

8.Chateau Maris Las Combes Minervois La Liviniere 2011, +341958, $25.95.

9.Masi Serego Alighieri Vaio Armaron Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2008, +462812,

$69.95.

10.Alto Moncayo Veraton Garnacha 2012 Campo de Borja, +173211, $33.95.

11.Faustino I Gran Reserva 2004 Rioja, +976662, $35.95.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Napa Valley Vintners Toronto 2015 tasting

 

The Date and Time: Monday, October 26, 2015  1:00PM to 4:30 PM

The Event: Napa Valley Vintners Toronto 2015 tasting

The Venue: Roy Thomson Hall

The Target Audience: wine writers and wine trade.

The Availability/Catalogue: all of the wines are available to licensees from the agents.

The Quote/Background: Vintages was putting on a show that evening; One Night in Napa Valley, with 29 wines for purchase. Only two of these wines were in the afternoon trade show.

The Wines: I did not try all the wines. There were five wines in the seminar moderated by John Szabo, and they were all cabernet sauvignon or cab blends. I continued this them by pursuing Napa cabs (with some chardonnays for relief). Prices are all licensee, but very few tables had price sheets.

 

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

-Atalon Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012, $37.95 cons B & W Wines

-Black Stallion Chardonnay Napa Valley 2014, $29 Select

-Beringer Chardonnay PR Napa Valley 2013, Treasury Wine Estates

-Cain Red Blend 2007 Cain Concept The Benchland Napa Valley

-Cain Red Blend 2010 Cain Five Spring Mountain  Rogers

-Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 SLD Stag's Leap District, The Vine

-Clos Pegase Chardonnay 2012 Los Carneros, Azureau

-Grgich Hills Chardonnay 2012 Napa Valley   Rogers

-Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select Spring Mountain District 2011, $362  Rogers

-Signorello Estate Chardonnay 2014 Hope's Cuvee Napa, $134.95 Profile

-Silenus Chardonnay 2014 Oak Knoll District

-Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2006 Halpern

-Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2010 Halpern

-Spottswoode Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon St Helena Napa 2012

-Spottswoode Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon St Helena Napa 2012 $200

-Spottswoode Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Lyndenhurst Napa 2012 $100

 

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

-Silverado Cabernet Sauvignon SOLO Stags Leap District Napa Valley 2012

-Frank Family Chardonnay Napa Valley 2013, Da Capo

-Freemark Abbey Chardonnay Napa Valley 2014, $37.95 B&W

-Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2011, $39.95 B&W

-Silenus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012

-Somerston Cabernet Sauvignon Priest Ranch Napa Valley 2012

-Stag's Leap Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012 Treasury Wine

-Bouchaine Chardonnay Carneros Napa Valley 2011 $35

-Acumen Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2011, $90  Vinexx

-Cuvaison Chardonnay Estate 2013 Los Carneros, Lifford

-Faust Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012, $57  Rogers

-B Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Syn3rgy Napa Valley 2011, $69.75 Da Capo Wines 

-B Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Ehrlich Vineyard Napa Valley 2012, $119.75 Da Capo Wines 

-B Cellars Chardonnay Maldonaldo Vineyard Napa Valley 2013, $45.75 Da Capo Wines 

-Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Napa Valley 2012, $61 +29207 

-Round Pond Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford 2012, $93 +440230 Rogers

-Napa Cellars Chardonnay Napa Valley 2013 Dandurand

-Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012, The Vine

-Havens Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Spring Mountain District $62, Profile

-La Jota Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain 2011, $95 Classics +659755

-Mt. Brave Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder 2011, $96.95 Vintages +411579

 

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

-Black Stallion Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012, $32.95 Select

-Gallica Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Napa Valley 2012, BND wines 

-Girard Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012 Azureau

 

The Food: Daniel et Daniel catered with charcuterie platters, cheese platters, and breads.

The Contact Person: bhawley@napavintners.com

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Lunch and Tasting with Eduardo Chadwick from Errazuriz, handled here in Ontario by Philippe Dandurand Wines.

 

The Date and Time: Tuesday, October 20, 2015,  1:00 Pm to 3:30 PM

The Event: Lunch and Tasting with Eduardo Chadwick from Errazuriz, handled here in Ontario by Philippe Dandurand Wines.

The Venue: TOCA in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

The Target Audience: wine writers and sommeliers

The Availability/Catalogue: all wines are, or will be, at the LCBO (see below).

The Quote/Background: Eduardo gave us a short history of the winery and its place in Chilean winemaking, as well as the terroir of his regions. We tasted 10 of his wines, which he commented on and we notated, but we did not taste Sena because it is repped by a different agency.

The Wines:

 

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

-Errazuriz La Cumbre 2013 Aconcagua Valley, $90 [syrah]

-Errazuriz Don Maximiano 2013 Aconcagua Valley, $256 [bord.-style blend]

-Errazuriz Vinedo Chadwick 2013 Maipo, $256  [cabernet sauvignon]

-Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Chardonnay Wild Ferment 2014, $24.95

-Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Syrah 2014, $24.95

-Errazuriz Aconcagua Alto Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, $19.95

 

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

-Errazuriz KAI Aconcagua Valley 2013, $90  [carmenere]

-Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Sauvignon Blanc 2014, $21.95

-Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Pinot Noir 2014, $24.95

 

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

-Errazuriz The Blend 2011 Aconcagua Valley, $34.95 [G/S/M]

 

 

The Food: off the menu – I had the tuna carpaccio with the first three wines, and cornish hen for the balance.

The Contact Person: rconvery@pdandurand.com

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Gourmet Food & Wine Expo – VIP night

The Date and Time: Thursday, November 19, 2015    6Pm to 10PM

The Event: Gourmet Food & Wine Expo – VIP night

The Venue: Metro Toronto Convention Centre

The Target Audience: VIPs, trade, wine writers

The Availability/Catalogue: each booth, of course, was different, with country themes, product themes, entertainment, All You need is Cheese, chef stage, entertainment, LCBO store (many wines were available here). I use the show to visit suppliers I do not normally get to.

The Quote/Background: the crowded entrance situation of last year was made better by splitting the VIPs away from the trade, with a separate escalator entrance.

The Wines:

 

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

-Garamvari Estate Winery Hungary Tokaji Szamorodni 2009, $18.95  Kovacs Agency

-Garamvari Estate Winery Hungary Optimum Brut 2011 [pinot noir, chardonnay, pinot blanc], $19.95  Kovacs Agency

-Matawhero Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2014, $21.95 +422428

-Duval-Leroy Champagne Brut Reserve NV, +661264, $55.95

-Atamisque Serbal Assemblage Tupungato Mendoza 2012, +415331, $19.95

 

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

-Garamvari Estate Winery Hungary Balatonlellei Merlot 2012, $15.95  Kovacs Agency

-Peter Yealands Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2014, $15.60 GL +277731

-Saint Clair Family Estate Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2015, GL $16.95  +237255

-Thornbury Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2014, V $1895 +734798

-Thierry Delaunay Sauvignon Blanc Touraine 2014, +391847, $14.95

-5 Stones Sauvignon Blanc-Semillon Margaret River 2014, +108001, $18.25

-Bonnard Pouilly-Fume Loire 2014, +65987, $23.95

-La Madone Beaujolais-Villages Le Perreon 2014, +981175, $14.95

-Laurent Mablieau St. Nicolas de Bourgeuil Loire 2013, +61192, $19.95

-Clarendelle Bordeaux 2010, +28837, $23.95

 

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

-Garamvari Estate Winery Hungary Balatonlellei Delidolo Southern Slope 2013, $14.95  Kovacs Agency

-Ara Pathway Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2014, GL $14.95  +416222

-Babich Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2014, GL $15.95, +620054

-Nobilo Regional Collection Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2014, GL $16.95 +415745

-L'Orangerie Entre deux Mers Bordeaux Blanc 2013, +425520, $14.95

-Orsat Fendant 13 Etoiles Valais Switzerland 2014, +425405, $19.95

-Chateau Suau Cotes de Bordeaux 2010, +437889, $20.95

-Bonnard Sancerre Rouge Loire 2013, +65995, $23.95

 

The Food: bread at booths, water.

The Contact Person: vin@vaxxine.com

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Port and Douro Wines; a taste of origin.

 

The Date and Time: Monday, October 19, 2015  3PM to 6PM

The Event: Port and Douro Wines; a taste of origin.

The Venue: Ritz-Carlton Hotel

The Target Audience: wine writers and sommeliers

The Availability/Catalogue:

The Quote/Background: This is an annual wine tasting that started out as just a port tasting but expanded to include table wines as well. Over the years the catalogue has been erratic. This time they delivered a huge book, with one page per wine plus some notes. Very valuable, except there was nothing about availability and price. You had to ask, and many on the other side of the table did not know. I could get a few FOB prices in Euros. This can be frustrating after awhile for the serious wine writer who needs to inform his audience.

The Wines: I did not try the table wines, unfortunately. But then over the years in the past, I have rarely tried the table wines. There were over 125 wines listed in the book.

 

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

-Ramos Pinto RP20 Tawny 20 years

-Ramos Pinto Vintage 1983

-C. Da Silva Dalva Porto 20 Years Old, $46.95

-C. Da Silva Dalva Porto Colheita 1985

-Sogevinus Burmester Porto 40 Years Old

-Sogevinus Calem Porto 20 Years Old

-Kopke Porto 30 Years Old White

-Kopke Porto Colheita 1941

-Kopke Porto Colheita 1965

-Sandeman Porto Tawny 20 Years Old

 

 

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

-Ramos Pinto RP10 Tawny 10 years

-Pocas Porto Colheita 1992

-Sogevinus Burmester Porto Colheita 1989

-Sogevinus Barros Porto Colheita 1974

-Niepoort Porto Colheita 1999

-Sogevinus Calem Porto Colheita 2000

-Sandeman Porto Tawny 10 Years Old

-Sandeman Porto Vintage 2000

-Dona Matilde Porto Colheita 2008

 

 

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

-Pocas 10 Years Old Tawny

-Dalva Douro Colheita 2012

-Dalva Porto Vintage 2012

-Bulas Porto 20 Years Old Tawny

 

The Food: breads and cheeses. And for dinner that night we sat with winery principals as they poured their wines. 80 people sat down to a complex salad of fava beans, tomatoes, pickled fennel, shallots, black olive soil with (for my table) a delicious Dina Matilde Douro 2014 white (88, 4E FOB). The grilled swordfish and veggies came with the CARM Maria de Lourdes Douro 2011 White (89, $35 FWP). The braised beef cheek (there was so much I had to take it home) had the Dina Matilde Douro Red Reserva 2011 (89, 9E FOB) and the CARM Maria de Lourdes Douro 2011 Red (89, $40 FWP). I did not stay for dessert nor the various ports that came out: I was beat and there were both a Blue Jay game and an election that night. I heard later that our table had a Dona Matilde Colheita 2008 Port.

The Downside: too many activities this day made me selective in my tastings.

The Upside: I was invited to dinner a few weeks back, and decided to come despite the election.

The Contact Person: Daniel St. Germaine <dstgermaine@artscom.ca>

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 86.

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Portfolio tasting of Rogers & Company

The Date and Time: Monday, October 19, 2015  1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

The Event: Portfolio tasting of Rogers & Company

The Venue: George Restaurant

The Target Audience: sommeliers, private clients.

The Availability/Catalogue: everything is available by the case.

The Quote/Background: There was a one-hour seminar by Eric Baugher, Director of Winemaking for Ridge Vineyards; he discussed viti- and vinicultural processes at Ridge, along with a brief tasting. Other principals were there in support of the tasting for Pio Cesare, Domaine Serenes, Continuum, Duckhorn, Astrolabe, and Ehlers Estate.

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

 

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

-Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2012 $41.10

-Altesino Brunello di Montalcino 2010 $54.95

-Falchini Paretalo 2010  $27.95  my FAVE of the tasting

-Pio Cesare Ornato Barolo 2011, $112.95

-Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 2013, $36.95

-Chateau Fortia Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee du Baron 2012, $38.95

-Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir 2012, $112.95

-Dominus Estate Napanook 2011, $79.95

-Grgich Hills Napa Valley Chardonnay 2012, $60.95

-Shafer Napa Valley Merlot 2012, $77.95

-Cain Five 2010, $156.95

-Ovid Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, $414.95

-Ridge Vineyards Estate Chardonnay 2013, $77.40

-Mer Soleil Santa Barbara County Chardonnay 2012, $32.95

-Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, $88.95

-Maison Alex Gambal Chassagne-Montrachet 2013, $79.95

 

 

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

-Lis Neris Pinot Grigio Isonzo 2014, $26.95

-Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva Coltassala 2011 $58.95

-Giovanni Rosso Barolo Serralunga 2011, $49.95

-Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve IGT 2011, $105.95

-Fontodi Chianti Classico Riserva Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo 2011, $69.95

-Pio Cesare Il Bricco Barbaresco 2011, $112.95

-Pio Cesare Barolo 2011, $69.95

-Domaine Roger Luquet Pouilly-Fuisse 2013, $29.95

-Maison Alex Gambal Vosne-Romanee Vieilles Vignes 2013, $107.95

-Chateau La Mission Lalande de Pomerol 2010, $38.95

-Martin Ray Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, $28.95

-Astrolabe Valleys Awatere Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2014, $22.95

-Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Chardonnay 2013, $85.95

-Continuum 2012 Napa Valley Red, $277.85

-Ehlers Estate St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, $68.95

-Ehlers Estate "1886" St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, $160.95

-Faust Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, $56.95

-Duckhorn Three Palms Napa Valley Merlot 2012, $99.95

-Schafer Napa Valley Relentless 2012, $131.95

-Forman Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, $139.95

-Chateau Montelena Estate Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, $129.95

-Altamura Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, $137.95

-Shafer Hillside Select Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, $361.95

-Ridge Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, $68.95

-Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello 2012, $184.20

-Emmolo Napa Valley Merlot 2012, $63.95

 

 

 

The Food: cheeses and breads, goat cheese with roasted vegetables on platters, hot arancini, deep fried zucchini flowers, and may be more!

The Downside: I had another Port tasting after this, so my time here was short but sweet.

The Upside: a chance to taste some really high calibre wines, with Dr. Joseph Rogers himself.

The Contact Person: c.mclean@rogcowines.com; s.stoddart@rogcowines.com

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

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Re: The Event: Book launch of Goodness: recipes and stories by the Neal Brothers.

Pompous Ass English Ale

Audrey Hopburn Belgian IPA

Canuck Pale Ale

Pumpkin Ale 

On Wednesday, 18 November 2015, Dean Tudor <dtudor@pathcom.com> wrote:

The Date and Time: Thursday, October 15, 2015  6PM to 9PM

The Event: Book launch of Goodness: recipes and stories by the Neal Brothers.

The Venue: All the Best Foods

The Target Audience: food and wine writers

The Availability/Catalogue: the book was available for sale at the event.

The Quote/Background: GOODNESS; recipes and stories (Blakeman Books, 2015, 328 pages, ISBN 978-0-99480150-0  $29.95 paper covers) is from the Neal Brothers, Peter and Chris, who have expanded from their processed-naturally food company (organic foods such as salsas, potato chips, tortilla chips, coffees, chocolate)  to wines (Neal Hanna) and to support of Community Food Centres Canada.  This work celebrates 37 chefs, entrepreneurs, growers and food activists who believe that good, healthy food should be accessible to all. Each has a story top tell, supporting sustainability, promoting access, outreach and education. Each sends along a dish or two that can be made at home (recipe provided, of course, like the crispy egg and pork belly salad). Half of the profits  from the sale of GOODNESS will be donated to to the CFCC. Another perfect gift volume.

 

The Wines: Neal Hanna supplied the wines – Hecula Yecla 2013 Monatrell red from Spain (89), Union White (Riesling/Chardonnay/3 others) VQA 2013 (88), and Fielding Long Weekend Chardonnnay/Pinot Grigio 2014 (86).

Beer was provided by Great Lakes Brewery – Pompass Ass Ale Best Bitter (91), Andy Hopburn (89), and Canuck Pale Ale (88).

 

The Food: the highlight of course, like being at a catered party. Apart from the cheeses hidden away in the cellar area (cave-aged gruyere, epoisses) we had passed around platters of arancini, crostini, crab tortillas, hemp hummus, salmon rillettes, butter chicken, and more that I did not catch up on. Cheese straws were on every table. And all done in-house at All the Best Food. Kudos to the lovely staff, and the beers went well.

The Downside: it was windy and rainy outside, possible keeping down attendance so that the launch was not jammed. But that meant fewer people to buy or engage with the book.

The Upside: My wife was allowed in as +1. Thanks!

The Contact Person: troy.b@greatlakesbeer.com; andrewhanna@winetrader.ca; emma@thesirengroup.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 92.

 

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Book launch of Goodness: recipes and stories by the Neal Brothers.

The Date and Time: Thursday, October 15, 2015  6PM to 9PM

The Event: Book launch of Goodness: recipes and stories by the Neal Brothers.

The Venue: All the Best Foods

The Target Audience: food and wine writers

The Availability/Catalogue: the book was available for sale at the event.

The Quote/Background: GOODNESS; recipes and stories (Blakeman Books, 2015, 328 pages, ISBN 978-0-99480150-0  $29.95 paper covers) is from the Neal Brothers, Peter and Chris, who have expanded from their processed-naturally food company (organic foods such as salsas, potato chips, tortilla chips, coffees, chocolate)  to wines (Neal Hanna) and to support of Community Food Centres Canada.  This work celebrates 37 chefs, entrepreneurs, growers and food activists who believe that good, healthy food should be accessible to all. Each has a story top tell, supporting sustainability, promoting access, outreach and education. Each sends along a dish or two that can be made at home (recipe provided, of course, like the crispy egg and pork belly salad). Half of the profits  from the sale of GOODNESS will be donated to to the CFCC. Another perfect gift volume.

 

The Wines: Neal Hanna supplied the wines – Hecula Yecla 2013 Monatrell red from Spain (89), Union White (Riesling/Chardonnay/3 others) VQA 2013 (88), and Fielding Long Weekend Chardonnnay/Pinot Grigio 2014 (86).

Beer was provided by Great Lakes Brewery – Pompass Ass Ale Best Bitter (91), Andy Hopburn (89), and Canuck Pale Ale (88).

 

The Food: the highlight of course, like being at a catered party. Apart from the cheeses hidden away in the cellar area (cave-aged gruyere, epoisses) we had passed around platters of arancini, crostini, crab tortillas, hemp hummus, salmon rillettes, butter chicken, and more that I did not catch up on. Cheese straws were on every table. And all done in-house at All the Best Food. Kudos to the lovely staff, and the beers went well.

The Downside: it was windy and rainy outside, possible keeping down attendance so that the launch was not jammed. But that meant fewer people to buy or engage with the book.

The Upside: My wife was allowed in as +1. Thanks!

The Contact Person: troy.b@greatlakesbeer.com; andrewhanna@winetrader.ca; emma@thesirengroup.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 92.

 

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Douro Boys tasting of current wines

The Date and Time:  Tuesday, October 13, 2015  2:30 PM to 5PM

The Event: Douro Boys tasting of current wines

The Venue: University Club

The Target Audience: wine writers and sommeliers

The Availability/Catalogue: prices were very spotty and availability was uncertain in some cases. Food Wines of Portugal with three tables had an order form, and most wines were available by consignment.

The Quote/Background: I did not taste all of the wines.

The Wines: Prices are usually Licensee

 

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

-Quinta do Vale Meão Red Douro 2012 $110

-Quinta do Vallado Reserva Branca 2014 [Gouveio, Rabigato, Arinto, Viosinho grapes]

-Quinta Vale D. Maria Rufo White 2014 $17.70 lic FWP

-Quinta do Crasto Superior White 2014 [Verdelho, Codega de Lourinha, Viosinho and Rabigato] $26.50 FWP

-Quinta do Crasto Vinha da Ponte Red Douro 2012 $185.84  FWP

-Niepoort Coche White 2013 [Rabigato, Códega do Larinho, Arinto and others] $109.74 FWP

-Niepoort Redoma 2014 [Rabigato, Códega, Viosinho, Arinto and others] $31.42 FWP

-Quinta do Vallado 20 Year Tawny

-Quinta do Vale Meão Vintage Port 2013

 

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

-Quinta do Vale Meão Meandro 2014 [Rabigato and Arinto]

-Quinta Vale D. Maria Red Douro 2012

-Niepoort Charme Red Douro 2013 $104.43  FWP

-Quinta do Vallado Reserva Field Blend Red Douro 2012

-Quinta do Crasto Vintage Port 1999 $105.31  FWP

 

The Food: cheeses and breads

The Downside: there was some vagueness about prices at some tables.

The Upside: there was lots of room and time for tasting and evaluating.

The Contact Person: <b.baeck@wine-partners.at>

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Tasting Rioja Bordon Gran Reserva – 7 vintages vertical

The Date and Time:  Tuesday, October 13, 2015   11AM to 1PM

The Event: Tasting Rioja Bordon Gran Reserva – 7 vintages vertical

The Venue: National Club

The Target Audience: wine writers and sommeliers

The Availability/Catalogue: in Ontario, only the 2005 GR is available through the LCBO's new Signature collection ($22.95). The agent is Eurovintage.

The Quote/Background: Juan Carlos Llopart, export director of Bodegas Bordon, led the tasting. The winery was founded in 1890 as Bodegas Franco-Espanolas, and since 1984 has concentrated on making old-style Rioja. In addition to the seven GR, we had a variety of other wines that will be making their appearance in the LCBO system.

The Wines:

 

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

-Bordon Gran Reserva Rioja 1985 [80% tempranillo]

-Bordon Gran Reserva Rioja 1994 [80% tempranillo] – my fave

-Bordon Gran Reserva Rioja 2001 [80% campanile]

 

 

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

-Bordon Gran Reserva Rioja 1982 [80% campanile]

-Bordon Gran Reserva Rioja 1995 [80% campanile]

-Bordon Gran Reserva Rioja 2005 [80% campanile] $22.95 +428060 Signature

 

 

 

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

-Bordon Gran Reserva Rioja 2006 [80% campanile]

 

In the side table, for those who wanted to sample new releases, there were three Bordon Reserva Rioja (2007, 2008, and 2009). 2009 is coming, to be priced at $18.95. We also tried a Bordon Seleccion Historica 2012 Rioja Crianza (100% tempranillo), a young and fruity wine TBD at LCBO, probably $17.95.

 

The Food: for lunch we had a variety of dishes including fried calamari, serrano ham, olives, paella, pepper salads, and potato croquettes.

The Contact Person: sales@eurovintage.com

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

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR NOVEMBER 14, 2015

 

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR  NOVEMBER 14, 2015

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

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", a guide to thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, has been 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. It is getting more difficult to endorse wines under $20 for the simple reason that the LCBO does not release many of them into the Vintages program, ones that can be deemed to be worthy of your consideration. So I will now just ADD some "under $25" suggestions, along with point values.

 

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

 

Gerard Bertrand Fitou 2011, +403683, $16.95: a nice chewy wine, made all the more enjoyable by the lack of grenach paper-y taste. Juicy and dense. 14% ABV, cork closure. QPR: 89.

 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $25:

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

1.Dog point Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Marlborough, +677450, $24.95. QPR: 91.

2.Reif Estate Reserve Gewurztraminer 2013 VQA Niagara River, +360255, $18.95: lovely gewurztraminer nose and flavours, longer finish, 13.5% ABV. QPR: 89.

3.Thierry Delaunay Sauvignon Blanc Touraine 2014, +391847, $14.95: the savvy of the month, they keep coming from the Touraine at this price level. QPR: 89.

4.Terredora Falanghina 2014 IGT Campania, +642074, $16.95: good fruit tones, dense concentration of flavours, try with petites fritures. 12.5% ABV, cork closure. QPR: 88.

 

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $25:

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

1.Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Clare Valley/Coonawarra, +142398, $24.95. QPR: 92.

2.Il Molino di Grace Riserva Chianti Classico 2008, +382945, $23.95. QPR: 90.

3.Castello d'Alba Vinhas Velhas Grande Reserva 2012 Douro, +427880, $22.95. QPR: 89.

4.Alejandro Fernandez Dehesa La Granja 2008 Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y Leon, +192476, $21.95. QPR: 89.

5.Concha y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Pinot Noir 2013 Limari, +301424, $19.95: very Burgundian in style, with toasty oak tones, a lively finish, very food oriented. Cork closure. 13.5% ABV.  QPR: 88.

6.Koyle Royale Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Los Lingues Vineyard Colchagua, +255760, $24.95. QPR: 91.

7.Grand Vin de Glenelly Red 2009 WO Stellenbosch, +360339, $19.95: good syrah hit but blended well with the international bordeaux varieties, good depth, great as sipper or with food. 14.5% ABV, cork closure. QPR: 88.

8.Chateau Hauchat 2011 Fronsac, +123489, $15.95: well-made entry level Bordeaux, with some oak tones and some tannic finish over the fruit. 13$ ABV. QPR: 88.

9.Torres Altos Ibericos Crianza 2012 Rioja, +381046, $16.95: a better than expected Rioja venture for Torres, with sandal accents and spices from the tempranillo. Aged a year in oak. QPR: 88.

10.Chateau de Nages Vieilles Vignes Costieres de Nimes 2012, +40964, $19.95: good syrah component, and none of that grenache paper. Dark fruit, garrigue, 15% ABV. QPR: 89.

11.Boutari Grande Reserve Xinomavro 2008 PDO Naoussa, +140111, $18.95: good aging, slightly dried out fruit but nice oak component. 13.%% ABV, cork closure. QPR: 89.

 

VALUE: "RESTAURANT READY" or "BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE" over $25 RETAIL

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

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 2012 VQA Beamsville Bench, +324103, $44.95 retail.

2.Closson Chase CC Vineyard Chardonnay 2013 VQA Prince Edward County, +148866, $27.95.

3.Stratus White 2012 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, +660704, $44.20.

4.Versado Reserva Ancient Malbec 2011 Mendoza, +316984, $59.95.

5.Emiliana Coyam 2011 Colchagua Valley, +63891, $29.95.

6.Santa Carolina Reserva de Familia Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Maipo Valley, +430728, $37.95 magnum 1500mL.

7.Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 2013 Marlborough, +598813, $44.95.

8.Chateau Haut Corbin 2000 Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, +425439, $58.95.

9.B & G Chateau Magnol 2010 Haut Medoc, +424598, $47.95 magnum 1500mL

10.Poggio Verrano Dromos 2005 IGT Maremma Toscana, +107383, $39.95.

11.Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2011, +356220, $49.95.

12.Bodegas LAN Crianza 2011 Rioja, +424531, $29.95 magnum 1500mL

13.Marques de Caceres Gran Reserva 2008 Rioja, +976670, $29.95.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: A tasting of Nugan Estate wines of Australia with Matthew Nugan, 2015 Riedel Winemaker Award winner.

The Date and Time: Monday, October 26, 2015   11 AM to 12:30 PM

The Event: A tasting of Nugan Estate wines of Australia with Matthew Nugan, 2015 Riedel Winemaker Award winner.

The Venue: George Brown College, Chef's House.

The Target Audience: wine writers and students

The Availability/Catalogue: PMA is the agent, and the wines are available on many levels (LCBO, consignment, PO).

The Quote/Background: Matthew spoke about his holdings in Riverina, King Valley and McLaren Vale (terroir, grapes, etc.).

The Wines:

 

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

-Nugan Estates Matriarch 2006, $100

 

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

-Nugan Estate Frasca's Lane King Valley Victoria Chardonnay 2013

-Nugan Estates McLaren Parish Shiraz 2012, ~$25

-Nugan Estates Alfredo Dried Grape 2012, Vintages ~$25  [amarone-style]

 

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

-Nugan Estates 3rd Generation Chardonnay 2014, LCBO General

-Nugan Estates Alfredo 2d Pass Shiraz 2014, LCBO General

 

The Food: we were served a plate of small bites, with PR cheese, roaring forties cheese, crab salad, peach and apricot preserves on toast, and pickled cascade hops – all meant to go with the wines.

The Downside: we didn't get started until 11:30

The Upside: a chance to speak with Matthew Nugan himself.

The Contact Person: spuritt@sympatico.ca

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

 

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Annual tasting of Fortified Wines for Christmas, plus 18 or so Domestic Ontario Sparkling Wines (plus a few Champagnes and other stragglers).

The Date and Time: Monday, October 5, 2015   10:30 AM to 2 PM

The Event: Annual tasting of Fortified Wines for Christmas, plus 18 or so Domestic Ontario Sparkling Wines (plus a few Champagnes and other stragglers).

The Venue: Quebec Avenue Meeting Place

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

The Availability/Catalogue: all wines are available through the LCBO or by private order, as specified.

The Quote/Background: Once again we had a lot of wine but we all took our time. Our thanks to the agents and wineries for supplying us, and for filling in the spreadsheets. It gets better and better every year, although the listing of prices tended to be variable.

The Wines: What follows are my ratings; the wines are NOT ranked. While I organized the tasting for the Wine Writers' Circle of Canada, it was NOT a competition and my ratings are my own and form my own writings. Members write as they wish. and where they wish.

 

A: SPARKLING WINES (not in ranked order)

 

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

-Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery,2013,Fancy Farm Girl-Flirty Bubbles,$27.95 winery

-Colio Estate Wines,n/v,Lily Sparkling,$16.95,+418657 LCBO [riesling]

-Tawse Winery,2013,Spark Riesling,$19.95,+370361 Niagara,LCBO Vintages

-Compagnie Champenoise Ph-Ch,Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne NV $69.95 +36962

-Compagnie Champenoise Ph-Ch,Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne NV $54.95 +462432

-Comp Ph-Ch,Piper Heidsieck Rose Brut Champagne NV  Vintages

-Henry of Pelham ,Cuvee Catharine Brut,NV $29.95 +217521 Niagara -

 

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

-Arione,NV,Moscato Spumante,16.45,,Italy,Piedmonte PO w5vino.com

-Fresita,NV,,$13.95,+383901 LCBO Chile

-Featherstone,JOY,2011,$34.95,+310334 Vintages,

-Tawse Winery,2013,Spark (Blend),$24.95,+384966 Niagara,LCBO Vintages

-13th Street Winery,Cuvée Rosé Brut,NV,$24.95,+147504 Niagara Peninsula

-Konzelmann Cuve Close Rose,nv,,+184176 LCBO,

 

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

-John Howard Megalomaniac,Bubblehead Brut Rose $28.95 Niagara

-Konzelmann ,Cuve Close,nv

-Caldirola,NV,Pinot Nero Frizzante,$13.95,+931633,Italy,Pavia PO w5vino.com

-Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery,2013,Sparkling & SASSY Riesling,$27.95,+344622

-Pelee Island Winery 2013,SECCO,$13.75,+225948 Lake Erie North Shore LCBO

-Henry of Pelham Cuvee Catharine Blanc de Blanc,2010,$44.95,+315200 Short Hills Bench

-Henry of Pelham Cuvee Catharine Rose Brut,NV,$29.95,+217505 Niagara

-Jackson Triggs,Entourage GR Brut,2011 $22.95

-Niagara College Teaching Winery,Balance Brut

 

FORTIFIED WINES (these wines are not ranked)

 

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

-Fratelli Branca Antica Formula Vermouth,$47.95 Italy Consignment Majestic

-Graham,20 yr tawny 500 ml,$37.45,+620641

-Fonseca 2012,Guimaraens Vintage Port $81.95,+123695 Porto LCBO Vintages

 

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

-Monenvasia Winery,Velies Malvasia Laconia,2010,375mL   $80

-Graham,LBV,2009,$16.95,+191239

-Graham,10 yr Tawny,$28.95,+404012

-Taylor Fladgate 10 Year Old Tawny,NV,$34.95,+121749,Duoro Sylvestre Wines & Spirits

-Taylor Fladgate 20 Year Old Tawny,NV,$68.95,+149047 Duoro Sylvestre Wines & Spirits

-Generations Wine Co,Union Forte,2007,$16.95,+361758 Niagara Von Terra  Vintages

-Gonzalez Byass,NV,Tio Pepe Fino, $16.95 +231829 Jerez,LCBO,

-Bodegas Williams & Humbert,n/v,Williams & Humbert Dry Sack Sherry $13.35 +13565 -Gonzalez Byass,NV,Nutty Solera Oloroso, $15.25 +35204,Spain,Jerez,Vintages,31-Oct-15

-CAVINO S. A.,0,"DEUS Mavrodafne AOC Patras, Aigio, Peloponnese" $13.95 Greece,Aigio Peloponnese,LCBO,2016

-Fratelli Branca Carpano Classico Vermouth,$23.95,,Italy Consignment Majestic

-Carlo Pellegrino & C. Spa,2013,Moscato Di Panteleria,$21.45 Sicily Consignment

-Carlo Pellegrino & C. Spa,2014,Passito Di Panteleria $21.45 Sicily,Consignment

 

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

-Fratelli Branca Punt E Mes,$21.95 Italy,,Consignment Majestic

-Karlo Estate,Van Alstine Red  "port",2012, $29

-Black Prince,Solera's Cask Apera,"sherry"

-Karlo Estate,Van Alstine White  "port",2013,$29

-Gonzalez Byass,NV,Croft Original Pale Fine Cream, $15.95 +73452,Spain,Jerez,LCBO,

-Fonseca ,NV ,White Port $16.95,,Portugal ,Porto ,LCBO General List,

-Taylor Fladgate ,Fine White Port,NV,$15.95,+69856,Portugal,Duoro Vintages

-Kwv Sa (Pty) Ltd,n/v,Paarl Cape Ruby,$9.95,+28951,South Africa,Western Cape,LCBO

-De Sousa Wine Cellars Seasons Reserve Port,$39.95,LCBO VINTAGES +347302 Niagara -Senhora de Convento,Ruby Port,NV,$16.95,+398230,Portugal,Douro

-Manoel Pocas S.A.Pocas Ruby Port,$15.95,,Portugal,,LCBO Vintages

-Manoel Pocas S.A. Special Reserve Ruby,$19.95,,Portugal,,LCBO Vintages

-Senhora de Convento,Tawny Port,NV,$16.95,+398248,Portugal,Douro

-Fonseca Bin 27 $16.95,+325506,Portugal ,Porto ,LCBO General List,

-Ferreira,NV,Dona Antonia Reserve Port,$18.95,+157586,Portugal,Duoro,General List

-Croft,Late Bottled Vintage,2010,$18.95,+87601,Portugal,Duoro, Jan 23rd, 2016

-Taylor Fladgate Late Bottled Vintage,2010,$17.95,+46946,Portugal,Duoro

-Southbrook Vineyards Whimsy Anniversary NV $19.95 VQA Niagara [fortified chardonnay]

 

The Food: bread and water

The Contact Person: deantudor@deantudor.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 92.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com