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Thursday, March 29, 2018

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP 20/20 WINES: 20 under $20 and 20 over $20 for March 31, 2018 -- YES, IT IS THE BLUE MOON RELEASE!!!!

 
WORLD WINE WATCH TOP 20/20 WINES: 20 under $20 and 20 over $20 for March 31,  2018
 
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. My "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 http://www.deantudor.com since 1994.
These notes for wines available through the LCBO Vintages (on a bi-weekly basis)  can always be found at http://www.gothicepicures.blogspot.ca/ or at  http://www.deantudor.com
 
Scores are a combination of MVC (Modal Varietal Character, e.g. a Southern Rhone tastes like a Southern Rhone) and QPR (Quality/Price Ratio value in the marketplace above or below its price).
 
YES, IT IS THE BLUE MOON RELEASE!!!!
 
THIS MONTH'S SPECIAL FINDS --
W+129700    WILDASS RIESLING    VQA Niagara Peninsula    2016    $17.95     11% ABV, MVC/QPR: 91
R+161398    LANDER-JENKINS CABERNET SAUVIGNON    California    2015    $19.95     13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 92
R+286393    CHÂTEAU PAUL MAS CLOS DES MÛRES    AC Côteaux du Languedoc    2015   
$19.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 92
 
20 under $20
=========
W+552570    ROSEWOOD LOCKED & LOADED WHITE    VQA Niagara Peninsula    2016   
$16.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR:  88
W+119099    VIÑA COBOS FELINO CHARDONNAY    Mendoza    2016    $19.95    14.6% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
W+711556    WAKEFIELD CLARE VALLEY ESTATE CHARDONNAY    Clare Valley, South
Australia    2016    $15.95 13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
W+435412    ILOCKI PODRUMI TRAMINAC    Danube    2016    $16.95    12.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
W+906016    PIERRE SPARR ALTENBOURG RIESLING    AC Alsace    2015    $18.95   
13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
W+523928    SELBACH INCLINE RIESLING    Qualitätswein    2016    $17.95    11.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
W+477877 FEUDO MACCARI GRILLO IGP Terre Siciliane 2016 $14.95 13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
W+523621    CASAL DE VENTOZELA ALVARINHO    DOC Vinho Verde    2016    $19.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+261941    DON CRISTÓBAL 1492 BONARDA Ugarteche, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza    2016    $13.95    13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+169847    LUIS FELIPE EDWARDS GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON   
Colchagua Valley    2015    $15.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+542118    TERRA NOBLE GRAN RESERVA CARIGNAN    Maule Valley    2015    $18.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+546069    CHÂTEAU HAUT LALANDE    AC Côtes de Bordeaux - Blaye    2015    $19.95   
14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+245787    CAVINO NEMEA RESERVE PDO Nemea    2011    $15.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+541474    IL FEUDUCCIO FONTE VENNA MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO    DOC    2014   
$16.95 13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+538132    MESSER DEL FAUNO NERO D'AVOLA    IGT Terre Siciliane    2016    $13.95   
13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+282996    SAN FELICE CHIANTI CLASSICO    DOCG     2015    $19.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+471565    BORSAO BOLE    DO Campo de Borja    2014    $16.95 15% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+546085    CASTAÑO ECOLÓGICO BARRICA MONASTRELL    DO Yecla    2016    $13.95   
14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+546556    ROCKWAY BLOCK BLEND RED    VQA Niagara Peninsula    2015    $19.95   
13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
 
20 over $20
=========
W+541557    LAKE SONOMA CHARDONNAY    Russian River Valley, Sonoma County    2014   
$26.95            14.5 % ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
W+995746    ST. URBANS-HOF OLD VINES RIESLING    Qualitätswein    2016    $22.95    10% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+280578    QUINTA DO PORTAL RESERVA    DOC Douro    2014    $25.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+542191    GORETTI SAGRANTINO DI MONTEFALCO    DOCG    2009    $49.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+378885    OLARRA ERUDITO RESERVA ESPECIAL    DOCa Rioja    2009    $44.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+460642    DECOY MERLOT    Sonoma County    2015    $35.95    13.9% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+719435    LA CREMA SONOMA COAST PINOT NOIR    Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County   
2015    $34.95    13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+226944    RODNEY STRONG SONOMA COUNTY CABERNET SAUVIGNON    2014    $24.95 13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 92
R+209874    COLUMBIA CREST H3 MERLOT    Horse Heaven Hills, Columbia Valley    2015   
$21.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+534388    DOMAINE NINOT VIEILLES VIGNES MERCUREY    AC    2015    $38.95    13% R+549659    MADONNA DELL'UVA COLLINE NOVARESI NEBBIOLO    DOC  2010    $21.95    13%ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+261784    PAPALE LINEA ORO PRIMITIVO DI MANDURIA    DOP    2014    $23.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+643205    CASTELLI DEL GREVEPESA CLEMENTE VII RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO   
DOCG    2013    $23.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+192476    ALEJANDRO FERNÁNDEZ DEHESA LA GRANJA    Vino de la Tierra de
Castilla y León    2008    $20.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+85183    BALBÁS RESERVA    DO Ribera del Duero    2005    $22.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+656363    WEINERT CABERNET SAUVIGNON    Mendoza    2006    $25.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+960310    CHÂTEAU ST. GEORGES    AC Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion    2014    $43.95    13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+527101    CHÂTEAU VERDIGNAN    AC Haut-Médoc    2005    $49.95     13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+681262    BANFI ROSSO DI MONTALCINO    DOC    2015    $23.95    13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
 
Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

The Event: Tasting Menu at Globe Bistro March 14

The Date and Time: Wednesday March 14, 2018 5PM to 9:30PM
The Event: Tasting Menu at Globe Bistro
The Venue: Globe Bistro, Broadview and Danforth
The Target Audience: the four of us
The Quote/Background: We undertook to check out Chef Dan Sanders' tasting menu. WE ACTUALLY PAID OUR OWN WAY, but we did take advantage of two things. First, it was Happy Hour at 4 - 6PM, so we started at 5PM with 18 half-priced oysters (French Kiss aka Beau Soleil from Miramichi NB region) and half-priced draught beer. One of us tried a half-priced wine, the Melon from Malivoire figuring it was like Muscadet from the Loire, but to my taste it was too fragrant/aromatic with peach tones. Not with raw oysters, but better with cooked and sauced oysters (stew?). From Canada, I would prefer the Melon from Norman Hardie PEC with the raw oysters. Actually, I would have just preferred a Muscadet. Nevertheless, some of us had Hopping Mad for a bitter hop taste that went well with oysters. Second, Wednesdays are "corkage free" nights, so we brought a bottle of Alsatian Reserve Gewurztraminer 2015 and a Barbaresco 2006. Also, we decided to swap out the "dessert" part of the tasting menu for a cheese-based savoury dish at the end. You could of course skip the oysters and beers, and go on another night with its corkage of $20 a bottle, one per couple. We were just maximizing the value of the meal. We tried the five course tasting menu at $70 a head. Chef Dan offers three tasting menus daily (Tuesday – Sunday) – 4 courses for $60, 5 for $70, and 6 for $80, with matching wines for $30, $40, and $50. Quite a good deal, but you would be wise to email him at Globe a few days in advance to set it up. Especially if you have strong dislikes or allergies. Also – everyone at the table who orders the tasting menu must have this same menu.
The Wines: Our Alsatian Reserve Gewurztraminer was astoundingly brilliant with the "white wine match" part of the meal. The Barbaresco was also terrific; I use it as an all-purpose red since I find that nebbiolo goes with just about anything needing a red wine. Not too big, just enough fruit, loaded with structure that changes with age, etc.
The Food: Our menu tonight was also accompanied by lots of house-made Red Fife bread with housemade butter.
 
1)Amuse bouche of baby kale, caribou moss foam, and elk tartare [fabulous]
2)Roasted mushroom salad, tempura battered veggies, sun choke root veggies, celery, and a pouring of chasseur sauce (French hunter)
3)Duck foie gras with toasted brioche, spruce tip foam, cloudberry compote. [fabulous]
4)Pan seared large scallops, roasted butternut-hazelnut crumb, house honey from their local hives
5)Intermezzo palate refresher – Blueberry sorbet with lemon
6)Lamb loin, kale adobo sauce, wheat berries, red wine jus [fabulous]
7)Chevre from Quebec, bread chips, wild plums, walnuts [fabulous]
 
The whole menu was inspirational and to our liking. We were enthusiastic eaters. And the price was reasonable. Once you factor in the oysters, beers, and the LCBO cost of the good wine you brought in (plus tax and tip), it comes to around $250 a couple.
 
The Downside: we did not take any photos (should we have? That's a lot of light flashing with all those plates)
The Upside: good, controlled service, no rushing, no feel of waiting for the next course.
The Contact Person: adrian@globebistro.com
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 94.
 
Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Media Preview of Dig Our Roots, from Niagara-on-the-Lake “where it all began” March 5/18

The Date and Time: Monday March 5 2018 2PM to 4PM, and 5PM to 7PM
The Event: Media Preview of Dig Our Roots, from Niagara-on-the-Lake "where it all began"
The Venue: Thoroughbred Food & Drink, 304 Richmond St. W,
The Target Audience: wine media
The Availability/Catalogue: wines were available at the winery in most cases, others at the LCBO.
The Quote/Background: This was an intimate, invite-only Dig Our Roots Media Launch with
limited capacity of about 8, moderated by Master Sommelier Bruce Wallner who emphasized the nature of cool climate wines. Flights of Niagara-on-the-Lake Appellation wines were presented by the winemakers or wineries. It was in two sessions, afternoon and early evening. But I was at the Brunello tasting and missed the first session of different wines and speakers. This was an Inaugural Celebration of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Appellation, held over April 6-8, 2018 weekend. An opportunity for wine lovers to explore the NOTL appellation through a terroir showcase, history and culture, while immersing themselves in unique winery experiences, unearthing what makes this place and wines special. The 22 wineries will be leading seminars, planting seedlings, sampling wines blind, and eating four course meals. Ticket prices and guest capacity for each experience will vary. The best place to go for details is www.wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com/event/digourroots Sub-appellations to be covered include Four Mile Creek, Niagara Lakeshore, Niagara River, and St. David's Bench.
 
The Wines: I tried most of the wines, but some of them did not jibe with the list I was given, especially the ones from the 2PM session. Participating wineries in my session included (with presenter): Between the Lines (Greg Wertsch), Hare Wine Co. (Andrea Kaiser), Lakeview Wine Co (Thomas Green), Reif Estate (Roberto DiDomenico), Riverview Cellars (Alyssa Bator), and Stratus. Each commented on the particular wine, with Bruce's take augmenting the panel's. Earlier, there were Chateau des Charmes, Coyote's Run, Niagara College Teaching Winery, Pillitteri, Pondview, Strewn and Trius.  I tasted a few of their wines too, later at the buffet.
 
**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Trius Wild Fermented Chardonnay 2015
-Chateau des Charmes Equuleus 2014
-Hare Noble Cabernet Franc Appassimento 2013
-Reif Estate First Growth Cabernet Sauvignon 2001  [my fave]
 
***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Between the Lines Lemberger Reserve 2015
-Lakeview Cellars Viognier 2016
-Riverview Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Unoaked 2016
-Stratus Tannat 2013
 
The Food: a huge buffet spread of food which included various pizzas and flatbreads with (individually) smoked salmon, hen of woods mushroom bechamel pizza, rapini and sausage pizza, sausage platter, quinoa and beets salad, cheese platter, and more – I had to leave before they stopped putting out the food!
The Downside: I had been nicely satiated at the Brunello tasting, so this was an add-on that I could enjoy.
The Upside: great food accompaniment to a wide range of wines, including a rare 2001.
The Contact Person: evermeer@jankelley.com
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 93.
 
Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Thursday, March 22, 2018

The Event: Benvenuto Brunello Toronto March 5/18

The Date and Time: Monday March 5, 2018  11AM  to 4:30 PM
The Event: Benvenuto Brunello Toronto
The Venue: The Carlu
The Target Audience: wine trade. The main event was for consumers that evening – buying Brunellos. We were just tasting.
The Availability/Catalogue: the catalogue was the usual model of information arranged alphabetically by producer, and listing the wines (but not the Ontario prices). Labels were displayed as well as addresses of the principals and agents. Some producers were looking for agents. Some wines at the tasting were not listed; others were listed but not available to be tasted. Some agents (Le Sommelier, Lifford et al) had tasting and availability notes with prices. The group comes to Toronto and Montreal and the USA (which takes 25% of Brunello's production) every late winter, after the wines are released on January 1.There were 32 estates.
The Quote/Background: There was a seminar of some 10 wines, mostly Brunellos of the 2013 vintage, with technical sell sheets and presentations from the winery, all moderated by Michael Godel. Sixty people attended this seminar. There are 208 bottling wineries who are members of the sponsoring Consortium. Nine million bottles of Brunello are produced each year, along with 4.5 million of Rosso.
The Wines: I did not taste all the wines, preferring to concentrate on the Riservas and Single Vineyards. All these are DOCG. There were also Rossos, Sant'Antimo, and a few white wines.  The wines from the seminar are folded in.
 
**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-ALTESINO RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-ARGIANO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012 RISERVA
-BANFI POGGIO ALLE MURA RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-BARBI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2011 VIGNA DEL FIORE
-BELPOGGIO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-CAPARZO RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-CASISANO COLOMBAIOLO RESERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2011
-CASTELGIOCONDO RIPE AL CONVENTO RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2009
-CASTIGLION DEL BOSCO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012 RISERVA
-CASTIGLION DEL BOSCO MILLICENTO RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010
-COL D'ORCIA POGGIO AL VENTO RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2010
-CUPANO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-CUPANO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2009
-DONATELLA CINELLI COLOMBINI PRIME DONNE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-DONATELLA CINELLI COLOMBINI RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-FANTI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012 RISERVA VIGNA LE MACCHIARETTE
-IL GRAPPOLO SASSOCHETO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-IL POGGIONE VIGNA PAGANELLI RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-LA COLOMBINA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-LA MAGIA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO RISERVA 2012
-LE RAGNAIE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO "V.V." 2012
-LE RAGNAIE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO "FORNACE" 2013
-VILLA POGGIO SALVI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO RISERVA 2012
-SASSO DI SOLE RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-TENUTE SILVIO NARDI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO VIGNETO MANACHIARA 2012
-TALENTI PIAN DE CONTE RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-TENUTA CORTE PAVONE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-TENUTA CORTE PAVONE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2011
 
***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-ALTESINO MONTOSOLI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-BANFI CASTELLO BANFI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-CAPANNA RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-CASTELGIOCONDO RIPE AL CONVENTO RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-CORTONESI LA MANNELLA RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-DONATELLA CINELLI COLOMBINI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-FANTI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-VILLA POGGIO SALVI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
-VILLA POGGIO SALVI POMONA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
-TENUTA CORTE PAVONE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
 
The Food: O & B provided platters of smoked salmon, meats, sausages, cheeses, dips, breads, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, mushrooms, etc.
The Downside: smoked salmon?
The Upside: there seemed to be enough room to manoeuvre well.
The Contact Person: p.titone@ice.it
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89.
 
Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

The Event: Wine tasting dinner with Michelle Schromm, Global Brand Ambassador for Paul Hobbs and his Vina Cobos (Argentina) wines March 1, 2018

The Date and Time: March 1, 2018  6:30PM - 10PM
The Event: Wine tasting dinner with Michelle Schromm, Global Brand Ambassador for Paul Hobbs and his Vina Cobos (Argentina) wines. Vina Cobos is repped here in Ontario by Authentic Wine and Spirits Merchants.
The Venue: The ONE Restaurant, Neil Young Room
The Target Audience: wine writers
The Availability/Catalogue: the wines have been available from time to time in Ontario
The Quote/Background: The voluble Ms. Schromm spoke enthusiastically about Argentine wines in general, and, of course, Vina Cobos in particular. Cobos Malbec was first harvested in 1999; Paul Hobbs was a founding partner and winemaker. He now also consults globally at over 30 wineries including Canada. One of his new major projects is Crocus in Cahors where he has planted Malbec vines.
The Wines: Some of the wines were introduced as far back as 2014, and have managed to retain their CSPCs. And initial prices have held steady.
 
**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Vina Cobos Felino Chardonnay 2016 Mendoza +119099 $19.95 April 28 Vintages
-Vina Cobos Felino Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Mendoza +132365 $19.95 Vintages
-Vina Cobos Bramare Malbec Valle de Uco 2014 [4 different vyds] +123729 $44.95 Vintages
-Vina Cobos Bramare Zingaretti Vineyard Malbec 2013 $119.95 unavailable at LCBO now
 
***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Vina Cobos Felino Malbec 2016 Mendoza +118067 $19.95 Aug 18 Vintages
 
The Food: the menu included an amuse (chilled lobster salad) which went very well with the Chardonnay. The app was a grilled prawn and chorizo with black bean croquette, a good match for the Cabernet Sauvignon. The three Malbecs were tasted against the Wagyu sirloin cap, and then against the 12-layered dark chocolate cake. Everything was appropriate and well-chosen.
The Contact Person: mschromm@paulhobbs.com; rsalvino@awsm.ca
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Re: The Event: Green Living Show Food and Drink Pavilion media launch: “Taste Ontario, Taste the World” April 6 – 7 – 8 at Metro Convention Centre.

Great, thanks for this Dean!

Keira

On Tue, Mar 13, 2018 at 8:22 PM, Dean Tudor <dtudor@pathcom.com> wrote:
The Date and Time: Tuesday March 6, 2018  6PM to 9PM
The Event: Green Living Show Food and Drink Pavilion media launch: "Taste Ontario, Taste the World" April 6 – 7 – 8 at Metro Convention Centre.
The Venue: Propeller Coffee and Co. Cafe
The Target Audience: wine and food media
The Availability/Catalogue: all the wines and beers are available, and so is the food both at the show itself and at the originating restaurant.
The Quote/Background: The emphasis in the Green Living Show is on health, wellness, and sustainability. This applies to food and alcohol as well. There was a separate room for displays and samples of pre-packaged health items. There were also vegan "leather" jackets and clothes.
The Wines: I tried most of the wines and some of the beers.
 
**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Closson Chase Chardonnay 2014 VQA PEC  $28.95
-Closson Chase Pinot Noir 2014 VQA PEC  $29.95
-Rosewood Locked and Loaded Chardonnay 2016 VQA Niagara $16.95
-Rosewood Suss Riesling 2016 VQA Niagara  $15.95
-Market Brewery Co. Bear Hug 7% ABV 55 IBU
-Farmhouse Cider Pommies 6%
 
***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Rosewood Pinot Noir 2016 VQA Niagara $24.95
-Beau's Lug Tread 5.2%
 
The Food: I started by trying to pair the wines with the food, but this proved impossible since I had to move around back and forth through the crowds. My wife helped me. What can I say? Everything was scrumptious. From Farm'r there was Montreal brisket slider. From Urban Acorn there was food from a Scottish-Haitian fusion (smoked salmon with potato scone and edamame, and black bean accra with red pepper sauce pikliz and parsnip chip). 6ix Triangle had a root veggie and chickpea dish with Indian flavours. Momos from Tibet included beef, veggie pasta, and vegan fillings. Santo Pecado (St. Clair) contributed some Central Mexican food such as chicken tinga taco, a pork taco, and veggie (mushrooms) al pastor taco. Cucinato Italian Culinary Studio made us zeppola with fresh ricotta and tomato sauce; Lion City Restaurants made Singaporean food such as salted Ontario egg potato chips. Dessert came from Wafelhuis – Belgian Liege style waffles with Ontario raspberry souffle. All great street food!!
The Downside: It was bitterly cold outside as I walked from the subway station.
The Upside: I still have memories of last year's event. Good food, good drinks, good company.
The Contact Person: keira@touchwoodpr.com
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade):  91.
 



--
Keira Hunt | Publicity Coordinator
416.593.0777 (ext. 210) | keira@touchwoodpr.com
Touchwood PR | 121 John Street, 2nd Floor | Toronto, ON M5V 2E2
touchwoodpr.com | Facebook |  Twitter |  Instagram

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP 20/20 WINES: 20 under $20 and 20 over $20 for March 17, 2018

 
WORLD WINE WATCH TOP 20/20 WINES: 20 under $20 and 20 over $20 for March 17,  2018
 
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. My "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 http://www.deantudor.com since 1994.
These notes for wines available through the LCBO Vintages (on a bi-weekly basis)  can always be found at http://www.gothicepicures.blogspot.ca/ or at  http://www.deantudor.com
 
Scores are a combination of MVC (Modal Varietal Character, e.g. a Southern Rhone tastes like a Southern Rhone) and QPR (Quality/Price Ratio value in the marketplace above or below its price).
 
THIS MONTH'S SPECIAL FINDS --
R+545772    BUENA VISTA THE LEGENDARY BADGE PETITE SIRAH    California    2016    $17.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 93
R+545913 TEMPERAMENTO BOBAL DO Utiel-Requena 2014    $17.95    13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 92
Rose+333260 CHATEAU DES CHARMES CUVEE D'ANDREE ROSE 2016 12.6% ABV, MVC/QPR: 91
 
20 under $20
=========
W+164491    FIELDING UNOAKED CHARDONNAY    VQA Niagara Peninsula    2016    $14.95        12.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
W+557165    HENRY OF PELHAM ESTATE RIESLING    VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Escarpment    2016    $17.95    11.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
W+287995    CONCHA Y TORO SERIE RIBERAS GRAN RESERVA CHARDONNAY    Colchagua Valley    2016    $18.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
W+350900    ROBERT OATLEY SIGNATURE SERIES CHARDONNAY    Margaret River, Western Australia    2016    $18.95    12.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
W+461004    MAN FAMILY WARRELWIND SAUVIGNON BLANC    WO Western Cape    2016    $14.95    12% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
W+469734    PFAFF SPECIAL    AC Alsace    2015    $13.95     MVC/QPR: 89
W+488734    CASTELO DO MAR ALBARIÑO    DO Rías Baixas    2016    $17.95 13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+376822    WILDASS MERLOT    VQA Niagara Peninsula    2016    $18.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 91
R+673897    JIP JIP ROCKS SHIRAZ    Padthaway, South Australia    2016    $16.95    14.1% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+548503    SUTHERLAND CABERNET SAUVIGNON    WO Elgin    2013    $19.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+40964    CHÂTEAU DE NAGES VIEILLES VIGNES COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES    AC    2015    $19.95 15% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+454041    FONTANAFREDDA EREMO LANGHE ROSSO    DOC    2014    $17.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 91
R+452789    CONFIDENCIAL RESERVA    Vinho Regional Lisboa    2014    $14.95 13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR:  90
W+485276    TZAFONA CELLARS COLD CLIMATE UNOAKED CHARDONNAY KP    VQA Niagara Peninsula    2015    $22.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+550608    VIENI PINOT NOIR    VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula    2015    $16.95    13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
W+707950    ATTEMS PINOT GRIGIO    IGT Venezia Giulia    2016    $19.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+13755    TOMMASI POGGIO AL TUFO ROMPICOLLO    IGT Toscana    2015    $17.95    13 % ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
 
20 over $20
=========
W+377770    QUAILS' GATE CHARDONNAY    BC VQA Okanagan Valley    2015    $23.95 14 % ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
W+119073    PAUL HOBBS RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY CHARDONNAY    Russian River Valley, Sonoma County    2015    $67.95    14.1% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
W+424903 DOMAINE DE ROTISSON LES CHERES BOURGOGNE 2016 12.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
W+928218    SERGIO ZENATO RISERVA LUGANA    DOC    2015    $39.95    13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+546473    REDSTONE LIMESTONE VINEYARD PINOT NOIR    VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment    2012    $21.95    12.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+542647    LUIGI BOSCA GALA 2    Mendoza    2014    $36.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+123729    VIÑA COBOS BRAMARE MALBEC    Unfined and Unfiltered, Uco Valley, Mendoza    2014    $44.95    15% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+545954    CALITERRA EDICIÓN LIMITADA M    Colchagua Valley    2015    $21.95 14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 91
R+731620    BAROSSA VALLEY ESTATE E&E BLACK PEPPER SHIRAZ    Limited release, Barossa Valley, South Australia    2014    $89.95    15.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+469783    CHÂTEAU GRIVIÈRE    Cru Bourgeois, AC Médoc    2011    $24.95    13% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+129965    CHÂTEAU PECH REDON L'ÉPERVIER LA CLAPE    AC Coteaux du Languedoc    2014    $22.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90
R+67918    MARZIANO ABBONA TERLO RAVERA BAROLO    DOCG    2011    $59.95    15% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+922054    SILVIO NARDI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO    DOCG    2012    $44.95    15% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89
R+73072    BURROWING OWL SYRAH    BC VQA Okanagan Valley    2015    $44.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+544940    OBSIDIAN RIDGE ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON    Obsidian Ridge Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County    2014    $49.95    14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+529107    DOMAINE DROUHIN ROSEROCK PINOT NOIR    Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley    2014    $40.95    14.1% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+433045    XANADU CABERNET SAUVIGNON    Margaret River, Western Australia    2013    $39.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+414151    RUSTENBERG BUZZARD KLOOF SYRAH    WO Simonsberg-Stellenbosch    2014    $24.95    14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+285601    MARCHAND-TAWSE BOURGOGNE PINOT NOIR    AC    2014    $30.95 12.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
R+75127    MICHELE CASTELLANI CINQUE STELLE AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO    Collezione Ca' del Pipa, DOCG    2013    $55.95    15.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88
W+237933    WAKEFIELD ST. ANDREWS CHARDONNAY    Single Vineyard Release, Clare Valley, South Australia    2015    $34.95    13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 91

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

The Event: Green Living Show Food and Drink Pavilion media launch: “Taste Ontario, Taste the World” April 6 – 7 – 8 at Metro Convention Centre.

The Date and Time: Tuesday March 6, 2018  6PM to 9PM
The Event: Green Living Show Food and Drink Pavilion media launch: "Taste Ontario, Taste the World" April 6 – 7 – 8 at Metro Convention Centre.
The Venue: Propeller Coffee and Co. Cafe
The Target Audience: wine and food media
The Availability/Catalogue: all the wines and beers are available, and so is the food both at the show itself and at the originating restaurant.
The Quote/Background: The emphasis in the Green Living Show is on health, wellness, and sustainability. This applies to food and alcohol as well. There was a separate room for displays and samples of pre-packaged health items. There were also vegan "leather" jackets and clothes.
The Wines: I tried most of the wines and some of the beers.
 
**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Closson Chase Chardonnay 2014 VQA PEC  $28.95
-Closson Chase Pinot Noir 2014 VQA PEC  $29.95
-Rosewood Locked and Loaded Chardonnay 2016 VQA Niagara $16.95
-Rosewood Suss Riesling 2016 VQA Niagara  $15.95
-Market Brewery Co. Bear Hug 7% ABV 55 IBU
-Farmhouse Cider Pommies 6%
 
***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Rosewood Pinot Noir 2016 VQA Niagara $24.95
-Beau's Lug Tread 5.2%
 
The Food: I started by trying to pair the wines with the food, but this proved impossible since I had to move around back and forth through the crowds. My wife helped me. What can I say? Everything was scrumptious. From Farm'r there was Montreal brisket slider. From Urban Acorn there was food from a Scottish-Haitian fusion (smoked salmon with potato scone and edamame, and black bean accra with red pepper sauce pikliz and parsnip chip). 6ix Triangle had a root veggie and chickpea dish with Indian flavours. Momos from Tibet included beef, veggie pasta, and vegan fillings. Santo Pecado (St. Clair) contributed some Central Mexican food such as chicken tinga taco, a pork taco, and veggie (mushrooms) al pastor taco. Cucinato Italian Culinary Studio made us zeppola with fresh ricotta and tomato sauce; Lion City Restaurants made Singaporean food such as salted Ontario egg potato chips. Dessert came from Wafelhuis – Belgian Liege style waffles with Ontario raspberry souffle. All great street food!!
The Downside: It was bitterly cold outside as I walked from the subway station.
The Upside: I still have memories of last year's event. Good food, good drinks, good company.
The Contact Person: keira@touchwoodpr.com
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade):  91.
 
Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Monday, March 12, 2018

The Event: Taste Ontario – Toronto trade show Feb 26, 2018

The Date and Time: Monday February 26 2018  11AM to 4PM
The Event: Taste Ontario – Toronto trade show
The Venue: ROM
The Target Audience: wine trade
The Availability/Catalogue: the catalogue was a model – wines and license contacts were listed by region, moving from east to west, with full data (vintage year, licensee and retail prices), with enough space for tasting notes.
The Quote/Background: the media writers were in the Glass Room on the 4th floor where we had advance time and some sit-down table space to write up our scores.
The Wines: About 175 wines were available; I did not taste them all. ABVs are used. The first price is licensee. CSPCs are listed when the wine is available through the LCBO.
 
**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
Pelee Island Winery    Vinedresser Meritage    South Islands    2016    13.5    317933    $24.75    $24.95
Cave Spring Cellars    Riesling CSV    VQA Beamsville Bench    2015    11.5    566026    $25.12    $29.95
Cave Spring Cellars    Chardonnay CSV    VQA Beamsville Bench    2016    13.5    529941    $25.12    $29.95
Charles Baker Wines    Charles Baker Riesling Picone Vineyard    VQA Vinemount Ridge     2014            $29.55    $35.00
Domaine Queylus    Chardonnay Tradition    Niagara Region    2015    13%    489591    $20.90    $24.95
Fielding Estate Winery    Brut (Traditional Method)    Niagara Peninsula    NV    12        $31.20    $37.15
Hidden Bench Estate Winery    Bistro Chardonnay    Beamsville Bench    2013    13%    N/A    $17.95    N/A
Magnotta Winery     Chardonnay VQA - The Silver Line Single Vineyard Niagara Stone Road    Niagara-on-the-Lake    2015    13.6%    258681    $15.19    $17.95
Nyarai Cellars    Veritas    Niagara Peninsula    2012    13        $22.58    $26.95
Redstone Winery    Chardonnay    Niagara Peninsula    2013    12.5    NA    $16.00    $19.15
Tawse Winery    Limestone Ridge Spark Riesling    Twenty Mile Bench    2015    12    370361    $17.69    $21.15
Chateau des Charmes    Brut sparkling wine Méthode Traditionnelle    Niagara-on-the-Lake    n/v    13    1454091    $12.54 half-bottle    $14.95
Chateau des Charmes    Equuleus, Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard    St. David's Bench    2014    13    319525    $36.14    $43.00
Icellars Estate Winery    Arinna    Niagara-on-the-Lake    2015    13.5        $32.76    $39.00
Icellars Estate Winery    Cabernet Sauvignon    Niagara-on-the-Lake    2016    14.7        $50.49    $60.00
Inniskillin Niagara Estate Winery    Reserve Merlot        2014            $20.90    $24.95
Southbrook Vineyards    Triomphe Organic Merlot    Niagara Peninsula    2016    12.5    n/a    $25.12    $29.95
Stratus    Stratus White    Niagara-on-the-Lake    2014    12.9        $32.08    $38.00
Stratus    Stratus Red    Niagara-on-the-Lake    2014    13        $40.52    $48.20
Norman Hardie Winery & Vineyard    Chardonnay    VQA Niagara Peninsula VQA    2015    11.9%    184432    $32.93    $39.20
 
***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
Colio Estate Wines    Lily Sparkling VQA    Ontario    N/A    12%    418657    $14.99    $17.95
Colio Estate Wines    Lily Rosé Sparkling VQA    Ontario    N/V    12%    536565    $14.14    $16.95
Cooper's Hawk Vineyards    Cabernet Merlot Reserve    Lake Erie North Shore    2016    13%    328013    $16.00    $18.95
Cooper's Hawk Vineyards    Gewurztraminer    Lake Erie North Shore    2016    11%    N/A    $18.53    $21.95
Charles Baker Wines    Charles Baker Riesling B-Side    VQA Niagara Peninsula     2016    11        $18.57    $22.00
Creekside Estate Winery    Iconoclast Syrah    St. David's Bench    2015    13.6    471797    $20.94    $25.00
Creekside Estate Winery    Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon    St. David's Bench    2013    13.5        $37.82    $45.00
Fielding Estate Winery    Unoaked Chardonnay    Niagara Peninsula    2016    12.5    Vintages 164491    $12.62    $14.95
Flat Rock Cellars    Chardonnay    Twenty Mile Bench    2016    13.5%    286278    $16.68    $19.95
Flat Rock Cellars    Riesling    Twenty Mile Bench    2016    11%    43281    $14.99    $17.95
Malivoire Wine     Mottiar Chardonnay    Beamsville Bench    2013    13        $22.58    $29.95
Megalomaniac    My Way Chardonnay    Niagara Peninsula    2016    12.5 %    N/A    $20.90 $24.95
Meldville Wines     Chardonnay     Lincoln Lakeshore    2016    13%        $16.89    $20.20
Tawse Winery    Chardonnay    Niagara Peninsula    2015    12.5    N/A    $16.84    $20.15
The Good Earth Food And Wine Co.     2015 Chardonnay    Beamsville Bench VQA    2015    13.0 %        $20.90    $24.95
The Good Earth Food And Wine Co.     2016 Viogner     Niagara Peninsula VQA    2015    13.5 %        $20.90    $24.95
Vineland Estates Winery    Elevation Cabernet    Niagara Escarpment    2015    13    173609    $23.47    $28.00
Westcott Vineyards    Violette Sparkling Brut    Vinemount Ridge    2016    12.4        $21.74    $25.95
Westcott Vineyards    Estate Chardonnay     Vinemount Ridge    2016    14        $21.74    $25.95
13th Street Winery    Premier Cuvée    Niagara Peninsula    2012    12.5        $29.34    $34.95
2027 Cellars    Wismer Vineyard - Fox Croft Block Chardonnay    Twenty Mile Bench    2016    12.8%    n/a    $19.19    $22.95
Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Winery    Grand Reserve Shiraz        2015            $20.90    $24.95
Reif Estate Winery    Chardonnay Reserve    Niagara River    2014    13.5%        $19.40    $22.15
Southbrook Vineyards    Triomphe Organic Riesling    Niagara Peninsula    2016    11    n/a    $20.90    $24.95
Southbrook Vineyards    Triomphe Organic Cabernet Franc Rosé    Niagara Peninsula    2017    11.4    n/a    $16.67    $19.95
Stratus    Tollgate Chardonnay    Niagara-on-the-Lake    2016    13.1        $18.53    $22.20
Two Sisters Vineyards    Estate Red Reserve    Niagara River    2012    13.5    $21.01    n/a
Two Sisters Vineyards    Unoaked Chardonnay    Niagara Peninsula    2016    13.5        $32.76    $39.00
Norman Hardie Winery & Vineyard    Calcaire    VQA Ontario VQA    2016    11.7%        $19.42    $23.20
 
*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
Cooper's Hawk Vineyards    Unoaked Chardonnay    Ontario    2016    12.5    453167    $12.62    $14.95
Cave Spring Cellars    Riesling Adam Steps    VQA Beamsville Bench    2016    10.5%    901211    $20.90    $24.95
Rosewood Estates Winery    Locked & Loaded White    Niagara Peninsula    2016    13.00%        $14.31    $16.95
Vieni Estates Wine and Spirits    Momenti Sparkling        N/V            $13.32    $13.95
Vineland Estates Winery    Chardonnay unoaked    Niagara Peninsula    2017    12.5    307751    $11.60    $13.95
13th Street Winery    Chardonnay    Creek Shores    2016    13        $14.99    NA
Inniskillin Niagara Estate Winery    Montague Vineyard Chardonnay        2016            $20.90    $24.95
Pondview Estate Winery    Lot 74 Sparkling    Ontario    2016    12        $20.90    $24.95
Reif Estate Winery    Chenin Blanc    Niagara River    2016    13%        $16.75    $19.15
Reif Estate Winery    Shiraz Reserve    Niagara Peninsula    2016    13%        $23.85    $27.15
Two Sisters Vineyards    Riesling    Niagara Escarpment    2016    10.7    LCBO # 2017.1801    $29.38    $35.00
Grange of Prince Edward Winery    'Estate Grown' Chardonnay    VQA Prince Edward County VQA    2013    12    n/a    $16.67    $19.95
Lacey Estates Winery    INOX Chardonnay    VQA Twenty Mile Bench    2017    12.5        $20.09    $24.00
Rosehall Run Vineyards    Indigo Sparkling White        2016            $20.90    $24.95
Frisky Beaver | Smoke&Gamble     Frisky Beaver Shades of Grey Chardonnay    VQA Ontario    2015    12.8%    490383    $12.45    $14.95
 
The Food: enormous sandwiches were provided to the media, along with quinoa salad and a green salad plus cookies for dessert, and coffee.
The Downside: overall, I found some of the wines very inviting, but most were too young. Restaurants and private clients may want to store them awhile.
The Upside: the media room...THANK YOU WMAO!!
The Contact Person: info@wmao.ca
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 93
 
Chimo! www.deantudor.com

Sunday, March 11, 2018

The Event: Wine Australia Winter Trade Tasting Toronto PLUS seminar Feb 27, 2018 George Brown College

 
The Date and Time: Tuesday February 27 2018  11AM to 4PM
The Event: Wine Australia Winter Trade Tasting Toronto PLUS seminar
The Venue: George Brown College, Chef's House
The Target Audience: wine trade
The Availability/Catalogue: all wines are available through the agents and/or LCBO distribution system
The Quote/Background: we had a really cool seminar on sustainability, green, organic and biodynamic wines coming out of Australia, led by the irrepressible Mark Davidson. ENTWINE is the major association for an environmentally green wine industry, especially with water management. They represent over 500 vineyards and wineries, with 30% of the national crush. We were also exposed to some rare new varieties such as Dolcetto and Vermentino, Graciano and Nero D'Avola. The seminar was full with about 50 attendees. There were 12 wines at the seminar, folded into the listing below. 5 of them were not in the trade show but are available.
The Wines: There were 180 wines from 75 wineries; I did not taste them all. Prices are licensee.
 
**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Wakefield St.Andrews Clare Valley Chardonnay 2015 $30.96 Profile
-Brash Higgins CHN McLaren Vale Chenin Blanc 2016 $42.95 Living Vine
-Pewsey Vale Vineyard The Contours Eden Valley Riesling 2012 $45.95 Negociants Int.
-Deliquente Wine Co Screaming Betty Riverland Vermentino 2017 $17.50 [11% ABV]
-Jansz Tasmania Premium Cuvee NV $28 Negociants Int
-Vasse Felix Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 $50 Negociants Int
-Dalrymple Pipers River Pinot Noir 2015 $42.95 Negociants Int
-Wynns Coonawarra Estate Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon $28.95 +84996
-Voyager Estate Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $64.95 Rogers
-Schild Estate Limited Release Moorooroo Vineyard Barossa Valley Shiraz 2013 $78.63  Nicholas Pearce
-Glaetzer Amon Ra Barossa Valley Shiraz 2015 $72.95 The Vine
-Torbreck Vintners The Struie Barossa Valley Shiraz 2015 $62.16 Noble
-Bindi Block 5 Barossa Valley Pinot Noir 2015 $155 Alto Vino
-By Farr Three Oaks Geelong Chardonnay 2016 $85.80 Alto Vino
-Chapoutier & Laughton La Pleiade Heathcote Shiraz 2013 $90.95 +95570
-Clonakilla Canberra Shiraz Viognier 2015 $104 +27367
-Epsilon Barossa Valley Shiraz 2015 $23.95 Alto Vino [best value of the day!]
-Kay Bros Block 6 McLaren Vale Shiraz 2014 $92.95 +598870
-Massena Eleventh Hour Barossa Valley Shiraz 2012 $49.60 Alto Vino
 
 
***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Fishbone Black Label Margaret River Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2012 $29.85 +261247
-Paxton McLaren Vale Graciano 2016 $31 Noble
-Alpha Box & Dice Dead Winemakers Society Adelaide Hills Dolcetto 2016 $26.95 Authentic
-Rockford Local Growers Barossa Valley Semillon 2015 $55 Negociants Int
-Coldstream Hills Yarra Valley Chardonnay 2016 $26.51 Mark Anthony
-Pepper Tree Elderslee Road Wrattonbully Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $39.95 Azureau
-Pepper Tree The Gravels Wrattonbully Shiraz Viognier 2013 $39.95 Azureau
-Alpha Box & Dice Golden Mullet Fury McLaren Vale Semillon Viognier 2016 $26.95 Authentic
-The Lane 19th Meeting Adelaide Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 $37.25  Epic Wines
-Wakefield Estate Clare Valley Chardonnay 2016 $14.03 Profile
-Gentle Folk Blossoms Adelaide Hills Merlot Pinot Noir Petit Verdot 2016 $42.95 Living Vine 
-Ochota Barrels The Slint Vineyard Adelaide Hills Chardonnay 2016 $57.95 Living Vine
-Angove Family Winemakers Warboys Vineyard McLaren Vale Shiraz Grenache 2013 $46  Churchill Cellars
-Henschke Henry's Seven Barossa Shiraz Grenache Mataro Viognier 2015  $55 Negociants Int
-d'Arenberg The Derelict Vineyard McLaren Vale Grenache 2013 $29.95 Churchill Cellars
-John Duval Wines Plexus Barossa Shiraz Grenache Mataro 2014 $57  Negociants Int
-Vasse Felix Filius Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 $27.95 Negociants Int
-Voyager Estate Margaret River Chardonnay 2015 $34.95 Rogers
-Voyager Estate Margaret River Shiraz 2013 $30.95 +713115
-Barossa Valley Estate E&E Black Pepper Barossa Valley Shiraz 2014 $89.95 +731620
-Paxton Wines Jones Block McLaren Vale Shiraz 2014 $34.53 Noble
-Torbreck Vintners The Steading Barossa Valley Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre 2015 $50.62 Noble
-Torbreck Vintners The Factor Barossa Valley Shiraz 2014 $146.86 Noble
-Torbreck Vintners RunRig Barossa Valley Shiraz Viognier 2014 $267.17 Noble
-Turkey Flat Barossa Valley Shiraz 2015  $58.59 Noble
-By Farr Farrside Geelong Pinot Noir 2015 $85.80 +392829
-By Farr Geelong Shiraz 2014 $69.95 Alto Vino
-Jasper Hill Georgia's Paddock Heathcote Shiraz 2013 $98.5 +294751
-Kalleske Pirathon Barossa Valley Shiraz 2013 $29.95 +130278
 
*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Brash Higgins NDV McLaren Vale Nero D'Avola 2016 $45.95 Living Vine
-Murdoch Hill Sulky Blanc Adelaide Hills Riesling Sauvignon Blanc Pinot Gris 2016 $65.95 Living Vine
-Grosset Polish Hill Vineyard Clare Valley Riesling 2007 $54.75 Alto Vino
-John Duval Wines Annexus Barossa Grenache 2016 $82.95  Negociants Int
-Voyager Estate Margaret River Girt by Sea Chardonnay 2016 $24.95 Rogers
 
The Food: platters of arancini and dumpling pot stickers plus cheese boards and charcuterie boards, dried fruit, etc.
The Downside: it got really crowded really fast – and hot.
The Upside: I managed to taste all thre wines I wanted to.
The Contact Person:  annie.dingwall@wineaustralia.com
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 91.
 
Chimo! www.deantudor.com
 

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

The Event: Simply Italian Great Wines Americas Tour in Toronto February 5/18

1. The Date and Time: Monday February 5, 2018  11AM to 1PM
The Event: Simply Italian Great Wines Americas Tour in Toronto
The Venue: St. James Cathedral Centre
The Target Audience: wine trade
The Availability/Catalogue: the wines in the Franciacorta/Curtefranca seminar are available through www.winemoves.com
The Quote/Background: Riccardo Ricci Curbastro, President of Federdoc, explained the traceability and regulation of Italian DOC wines. He used his own Franciacorta Ricci Curbastro as examples of one territory but with three denominations. Six wines were presented, three of them sparklers. He carefully explained the new role of CETA for wine protection to DOP, DOC and DOCG, plus IGT.
The Wines: We had six wines in the seminar and a variety (maybe 36) outside with a stand-up lunch. Prices and availability were vague at best, but the Curbastro wines were quoted as US retail. There was no catalogue of wines. I did not try all the wines.
 
**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Ricci Curbastro Franciacorta Saten Brut 2013 [chardonnay] $46.95
-Ricci Curbastro Franciacorta Rose Brut NV [pinot nero/20% chardonnay] $48.50
-Roberto Sarotto Barolo 2014 Piedmont
-Roberto Sarotto Barbaresco 2013 Piedmont
-Menicucci Chianti Classico Riserva 2014 Tuscany
-Menicucci Governo all' Uso IGT 2014 Tuscany
 
***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (88 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Ricci Curbastro Franciacorta Brut NV $40
-Ricci Curbastro Curtefranca Rosso Vigna Santella del Grom 2013 $25.95
-Ricci Curbastro IGT Sebrino Pinot Nero 2010  $38.50
-Matteo Soria Bolla Bea Blanc de Noir Spumante Brut MC [pinot nero]
-Matteo Soria Bolla Bea Asti Secco DOP
-Roberto Sarotti Asti Secco DOP
-Duchessalia Astri Secco DOP
-Bera Barbaresco 2013 Piedmont
-Bera Barolo 2013 Piedmont
-Menicucci Chianti Classico 2015 Tuscany
-Menicucci Il Principie della Faggeta IGT 2014 Tuscany
 
*** GOOD -- Three Stars (85 – 87 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Ricci Curbastro Curtefranca Bianco 2016 $17.25
-Menicucci Solo IGT 2014 Tuscany
-I Feudi di Romans Venezia Giulla Ribolla Gialla 2017
 
The Food: we had a light lunch of sandwiches, cheeses, and pastries.
The Downside: it was a snowy-blowy day outside...
The Upside:...but the seminar was very well attended (about 66 people).
The Contact Person: simplyitalianwines@gmail.com and winemoves@gmail.com
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 85