WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES: under/over $20 for AUGUST 2, 2025

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES:  under/over $20 for  AUGUST 2, 2025 release.

By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. My "Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net", a guide to thousands of wine news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, has been at  https://pages.pathcom.com/~dtudor since 1994. These notes for top wines available through  LCBO Vintages New Releases (on a bi-weekly basis) can always be found at http://www.gothicepicures.blogspot.ca  or at https://pages.pathcom.com/~dtudor No winery can buy their way into – or out of – my publications. Evaluations are a combined MVC (Modal Varietal Character, e.g. a Rhone would taste like a Rhone) and QPR (Quality/Price Ratio value in the marketplace, above or below its price). 

MAJOR THEME:  Canadian wines, featuring Lake Eric North Shore (LENS)

Top Wines UNDER $20 
=================
FIZZ+42037 LA BAUME BRUT CRÉMANT DE LIMOUX NV $18.95 
FIZZ+21040 BRILLA! EXTRA DRY ROSÉ PROSECCO 2023  $19.95

W+34245 WALDSCHÜTZ RIED HASEL SINGLE VINEYARD GRÜNER VELTLINER 2023 AUSTRIA  $17.95
W+44278 SANTA CAROLINA EL PACTO CHARDONNAY 2022 CHILE  $18.95
W+42843 DOMAINE DE LA CHAISE TOURAINE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2023 LOIRE $19.95 W+40446 LYRARAKIS VOILA ASSYRTIKO 2023 GREECE  $19.95
W+24981 VILLA MARIA EARTH GARDEN SAUVIGNON BLANC 2024 NEW ZEALAND  $18.95
W+126847 MAN FREE-RUN STEEN CHENIN BLANC 2024 SOUTH AFRICA $14.95 

R+631820 DESQUICIADO MALBEC 2023 ARGENTINA  $15.95
R+10971 INFINITO WINEMAKER'S SELECTION MALBEC 2022  ARGENTINA $15.95
R+36387 STONEHAVEN STEPPING STONE SHIRAZ 2021 AUSTRALIA  $16.95
R+426247 CHÂTEAU LES TOURELLES 2020 BORDEAUX $17.95
R+43523 FABRE PIROUETTE MINERVOIS 2022  $13.95
R+43529 AMÉDÉE SANS SOUFRE AJOUTÉ LUBERON 2023 RHONE  $17.95
R+981399 TERRA D'ALIGI MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO 2023  $15.95
R+36810 ASKOS CANNONAU DI SARDEGNA 2023 SARDINIA $18.95
R+573501 VILLA CERNA PRIMOCOLLE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2021  $19.95
R+44950 FIUZA DUCADO DO INFANTE RESERVA RED 2022 PORTUGAL $13.95  
R+398925 ALCEÑO TWELVE 12 MESES MONASTRELL 2021 SPAIN  $17.95


Top Wines OVER $20 
================
W+ 46453 HESTER CREEK CHARDONNAY 2023 BC VQA  $35.95
W+381251 REDSTONE LIMESTONE VINEYARD SOUTH RIESLING VQA $22.95
W+43519 ROCHE DE BELLENE MÂCON-VILLAGES 2022 BURGUNDY  $20.95
W+44242 ALESSANDRO BERSELLI SIGNATURE COLLECTION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2023  ALTO ADIGE $21.95
W+35465 AVELEDA SOLOS DE XISTO ALVARINHO 2022 PORTUGAL  $24.95
ROSE+498535 MALIVOIRE VIVANT ROSÉ 2024 VQA  $21.95
ROSE+739474 DOMAINE DES CARTERESSES TAVEL 2024  $20.95

R+29048 ORGANIZED CRIME CABERNET FRANC 2019 VQA $24.95
R+418830 SOUTHBROOK TRIOMPHE ORGANIC MERLOT 2021 VQA  $27.95
R+40108 STRATUS ALTO 2023VQA  $28.95
R+42030 JAFFELIN BROUILLY 2023 BEAUJOLAIS $21.95
R+47118 CARPINETO RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2019 $31.95
R+16587 BERONIA VIÑAS VIEJAS 2020 SPAIN  $24.95
R+30222 PUELLES GRAN RESERVA 2015  SPAIN $27.95

LIMITED TIME OFFERS: Some Recommended Wines from the LCBO's Limited Time Offer selections...these  are "better" value wines...on sale  through Monday July 21 to August 17, 2025

W H I T E W I N ES

BOLLINI PINOT GRIGIO
DOC, Trentino, Italy
951319 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

CLOUDY BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
304469 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $42.95
NOW $38.95 Save $4.00

FEATHERSTONE FOUR FEATHERS VQA Niagara
341586 (D – 13 g/L) 750 mL $15.95
NOW $14.95 Save $1.00

KIM CRAWFORD ILLUMINATE SAUVIGNON BLANC
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
18947 (D – 16 g/L) 750 mL $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

OYSTER BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
316570 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $20.95
NOW $17.95 Save $3.00

SUSANA BALBO CRIOS TORRONTÉS Argentina
1834 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 mL $16.95
NOW $14.95 Save $2.00

WILLM RESERVE PINOT GRIS
AC Alsace, France
42495 (XD – 8 g/L) 750 mL $18.95
NOW $17.95 Save $1.00

FLAT ROCK RIESLING
VQA Niagara Peninsula,
43281 (D – 11 g/L)
750 mL REG. $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2


R E D W I N ES

CATHEDRAL CELLAR CABERNET SAUVIGNON
WO Western Cape, South Africa
328567 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $16.95 Save $3.00

DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS PÉTALOS
DO Bierzo, Spain
446484 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $29.95
NOW $26.95 Save $3.00

LA MASCOTA CABERNET SAUVIGNON Mendoza, Argentina
292110 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $16.95
NOW $14.95 Save $2.00

PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH
WO Swartland, South Africa
595280 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $16.95
NOW $13.95 Save $3.00

RICASOLI ROCCA GUICCIARDA
RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
943613 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $24.95
NOW $21.95 Save $3.00

THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER
South Australia
66738 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Valle del Maipo, Chile
18721 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $18.95
NOW $15.95 Save $3.00

WAKEFIELD ESTATE SHIRAZ
Clare Valley, South Australia
943787 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

TOMMASI RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA
CLASSICO SUPERIORE
DOC, Veneto, Italy
910430 (D – 7 g/L)
750 mL REG. $27.95
NOW $25.95

FOR MORE SELECTIONS, GO TO -- https://www.lcbo.com/en/products#t=clp-products&sort=relevancy&layout=card&f:@lcbo_current_offer=[On%20Sale]


 ** Some New Wines I Tasted Over the Past Season --- 

REPORT ON TASTIN' FRANCE July 2025, BUSINESS FRANCE...

These are top wines (as tasted by Mr. B), and may be accepted
 by the LCBO for LATER consumer purchase.....it's a long, involved process...

Sparkling wine
Cremant Brut Rose, Dames de Vignes

Whites
La Source, 2024, Domaine de Mourchon
Saumur Blanc, 2024, Dames de Vignes
Le Foret Enchantee, Saumur Blanc

Red wines
Seguret Grand Reserve, 2022, Domaine de Mourchon, Rhone Valley
Gigondas, 2023, Domaine de Paillere et Pied Gu, Rhone Valley
Gigondas, 2022, Domaine de Paillere et Pied Gu, Rhone Valley
Chateauneuf du Pape, 2023, Domaine Frederic Stehelin, Rhone Valley
Sablet Rouge, 2024, Domaine de Paillere et Pied Gu, Rhone Valley
Cuvee F, 2022, Dame de Vignes, Bordeaux
Chateau St. Ferdinand, Bordeaux Dames de Vignes
Chateau Tour St. Pierre, 2021, Bordeaux, Dames de Vignes

Dean Tudor,  Prof Emeritus T'karonto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) School of Journalism

Treasurer of Wine Writers' Circle of Canada http://www.deantudor.com
http://gothicepicures.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/gothicepicures

Virus-free.www.avg.com

Limited Time Offers via LCBO July 21 to August 17, 2025

LIMITED TIME OFFERS: Some Recommended Wines from the LCBO's Limited Time Offer selections...these are "better" value wines...on sale through Monday July 21 to August 17, 2025

W H I T E W I N ES

BOLLINI PINOT GRIGIO

DOC, Trentino, Italy

951319 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 mL $19.95

NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

CLOUDY BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC

Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand

304469 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $42.95

NOW $38.95 Save $4.00

FEATHERSTONE FOUR FEATHERS VQA Niagara

341586 (D – 13 g/L) 750 mL $15.95

NOW $14.95 Save $1.00

KIM CRAWFORD ILLUMINATE SAUVIGNON BLANC

Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand

18947 (D – 16 g/L) 750 mL $21.95

NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

OYSTER BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC

Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand

316570 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $20.95

NOW $17.95 Save $3.00

SUSANA BALBO CRIOS TORRONTÉS Argentina

1834 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 mL $16.95

NOW $14.95 Save $2.00

WILLM RESERVE PINOT GRIS

AC Alsace, France

42495 (XD – 8 g/L) 750 mL $18.95

NOW $17.95 Save $1.00

FLAT ROCK RIESLING

VQA Niagara Peninsula,

43281 (D – 11 g/L)

750 mL REG. $19.95

NOW $17.95 Save $2

R E D W I N ES

CATHEDRAL CELLAR CABERNET SAUVIGNON

WO Western Cape, South Africa

328567 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95

NOW $16.95 Save $3.00

DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS PÉTALOS

DO Bierzo, Spain

446484 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $29.95

NOW $26.95 Save $3.00

LA MASCOTA CABERNET SAUVIGNON Mendoza, Argentina

292110 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $16.95

NOW $14.95 Save $2.00

PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH

WO Swartland, South Africa

595280 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $16.95

NOW $13.95 Save $3.00

RICASOLI ROCCA GUICCIARDA

RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO

DOCG, Tuscany, Italy

943613 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $24.95

NOW $21.95 Save $3.00

THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER

South Australia

66738 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95

NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Valle del Maipo, Chile

18721 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $18.95

NOW $15.95 Save $3.00

WAKEFIELD ESTATE SHIRAZ

Clare Valley, South Australia

943787 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95

NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

TOMMASI RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA

CLASSICO SUPERIORE

DOC, Veneto, Italy

910430 (D – 7 g/L)

750 mL REG. $27.95

NOW $25.95

FOR MORE SELECTIONS, GO TO -- https://www.lcbo.com/en/products#t=clp-products&sort=relevancy&layout=card&f:@lcbo_current_offer=[On%20Sale]

Dean Tudor,  Prof Emeritus T'karonto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) School of Journalism

Treasurer of Wine Writers' Circle of Canada http://www.deantudor.com
http://gothicepicures.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/gothicepicures

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES: under/over $20 for JULY 19, 2025 release.

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES:  under/over $20 for  JULY 19, 2025 release.

By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. My "Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net", a guide to thousands of wine news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, has been at  https://pages.pathcom.com/~dtudor since 1994. These notes for better or best wines available through  LCBO Vintages (on a bi-weekly basis) can always be found at http://www.gothicepicures.blogspot.ca  or at https://pages.pathcom.com/~dtudor No winery can buy their way into – or out of – my publications. Ratings are a combined MVC (Modal Varietal Character, e.g. a Rhone would taste like a Rhone) and QPR (Quality/Price Ratio value in the marketplace, above or below its price). Ratings are BETTER or BEST, which gives me some wiggle room. With the rigorous lab standards at the LCBO, I can safely say that every single wine at the LCBO is at least GOOD (75-85 points). I do not list the GOOD wines -- just the BETTER (86-89) and the BEST (90+ ) wines. This spread of points compares to SILVER and GOLD medals [with GOOD being BRONZE]. 

MVC/QPR=BETTER (86-89)=basic recommendation
MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)=superior wine

MAJOR THEME:  Best BBQ wines, and Nova Scotia discoveries

Recommended Wines UNDER $20 
=========================
ROSE+45885 REDTAIL ROSÉ 2023 VQA  $19
ROSE+44125 MIRADA ORGANIC ROSÉ 2024 SPAIN $15.95

W+42735 HUMBERTO CANALE ESTATE 1909 SAUVIGNON BLANC 2024 ARGENTINA  $17.95
W+41875 BIRD IN HAND SAUVIGNON BLANC 2024 AUSTRALIA  $17.95
W+25384 PFAFF CUVÉE JUPITER RIESLING 2023 ALSACE  $17.95
W+44464 ÉLISABETH COLOMBARD/SAUVIGNON 2023 FRANCE $13.95
W+25762 GUNDERLOCH RED STONE RIESLING 2023 RHEINHESSEN  $19.95
W+37070 PETRIESSA ASSYRTIKO 2024 GREECE $18.95
W+408146 MARIA PAPOILA LOUREIRO/ALVARINHO 2023 PORTUGAL $17.95

R+42115 FABRE MONTMAYOU BARREL SELECTION MALBEC 2022 ARGENTINA $19.95 
R+46055 FEATHERSTONE GEMSTONE 2023  VQA $17.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
R+320507 PIPOLI AGLIANICO DEL VULTURE 2021 BASILICATA $17.95
R+44954 TERRE DI FAIANO ORGANIC PRIMITIVO 2023 PUGLIA  $14.95
R+44856 LA CARUSA NERO D'AVOLA/SYRAH 2023 SICILY $17.95
R+121160 VILLA TRASQUA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2020 $19.95
R+168823 BURGO VIEJO RESERVA 2020 RIOJA $19.95        

Recommended Wines OVER $20 
========================
FIZZ+256289 BENJAMIN BRIDGE NOVA 7 SPARKLING NOVA SCOTIA  $24.95

W+ 238642 INNISKILLIN MONTAGUE VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2022 VQA  $32.95 
W+88955 HUFF CATHERINE'S CHARDONNAY 2022 VQA  $34
W+46054 KONZELMANN BARREL AGED RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2022 VQA $24.95 
W+46059 CHARLES BAKER LAUNDRY VINEYARD RIESLING 2023 VQA  $32.20
W+43522 VINCENT DE LA REMONDIÈRE CHABLIS 2023 $36.95

R+553321 MISSION HILL RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2022 BC VQA $37.95
R+45862 LIGHTFOOT & WOLFVILLE FAUNA RED 2022 NOVA SCOTIA  $26.95
R+997353 INNISKILLIN MONTAGUE VINEYARD PINOT NOIR 2022 VQA $35.95 
R+203364 ERRÁZURIZ ACONCAGUA ALTO CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 CHILE $22.95
R+43907 CHÂTEAU BEAU SITE HAUT VIGNOBLE 2016 BORDEAUX $54.95
R+44071 TORRE ZAMBRA COLLE MAGGIO RISERVA MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO $34.95
R+216309 CASTELLO DI GABBIANO RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2021 $24.95

LIMITED TIME OFFERS: Some Recommended Wines from the LCBO's Limited Time Offer selections...these  are "better or best" value...on sale to July 20...BETTER HURRY!!!

FIZZ

13TH STREET CUVÉE BRUT SPARKLING ROSÉ
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario,
traditional method, sustainable, vegan
147504 (XD – 9 g/L) 750 mL $29.95
NOW $26.95 Save $3.00

CAVE SPRING BLANC DE BLANCS BRUT SPARKLING
VQA Niagara Escarpment, Ontario,
traditional method, sustainable, vegan
213983 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $32.95
NOW $29.95 Save $3.00

CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES BRUT SPARKLING
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario,
traditional method
224766 (D – 12 g/L) 750 mL $30.95
NOW $27.95 Save $3.00

TAWSE SPARK LIMESTONE RIDGE ORGANIC BRUT SPARKLING RIESLING
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment,
Ontario, traditional method
370361 (M – 19 g/L) 750 mL $24.95
NOW $21.95 Save $3.00


W H I T E W I N ES

CLOSSON CHASE THE BROCK CHARDONNAY
VQA Niagara River,
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
20899 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $24.95
NOW $22.95 Save $2.00

FERZO ABRUZZO PECORINO SUPERIORE
DOP, Abruzzo, Italy
573683 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $17.95
NOW $15.95 Save $2.00

KIM CRAWFORD MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
35386 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $21.95
NOW $18.95 Save $3.00

FLAT ROCK TWISTED WHITE
VQA Niagara Peninsula,
Ontario, sustainable
1578 (D – 12 g/L)
750 mL REG. $17.95
NOW $15.95  Save $2

ZENATO SAN BENEDETTO LUGANA
DOC, Veneto, Italy
707158 (XD – 7 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00


R E D W I N ES

CAVE SPRING PINOT NOIR 
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario,
sustainable, vegan
417642 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 mL $21.95
NOW $18.95 Save $3.00

MALIVOIRE FARMSTEAD GAMAY
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario,
sustainable, vegan
591313 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

MONTE ZOVO SA' SOLIN VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO SUPERIORE
DOC, Veneto, Italy
650713 (D – 12 g/L) 750 mL $24.95
NOW $22.95 Save $2.00

MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Valle de Colchagua, Chile
322586 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $22.95
NOW $20.95 Save $2.00

PENFOLDS KOONUNGA HILL SHIRAZ/CABERNET
South Australia
285544 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $18.95
NOW $16.45 Save $2.50

SAN FELICE CHIANTI CLASSICO
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
282996 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $20.95
NOW $18.95 Save $2.00

SELLA & MOSCA RISERVA CANNONAU DI SARDEGNA
DOC, Sardinia, Italy
425488 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $16.95 Save $3.00


*********LIMITED-TIME OFFERS
Save on these popular wines from "July 21 to August 17, 2025"

W H I T E W I N ES

BOLLINI PINOT GRIGIO
DOC, Trentino, Italy
951319 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

CLOUDY BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
304469 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $42.95
NOW $38.95 Save $4.00

FEATHERSTONE FOUR FEATHERS VQA Niagara
341586 (D – 13 g/L) 750 mL $15.95
NOW $14.95 Save $1.00

KIM CRAWFORD ILLUMINATE SAUVIGNON BLANC
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
18947 (D – 16 g/L) 750 mL $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

OYSTER BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
316570 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $20.95
NOW $17.95 Save $3.00

SUSANA BALBO CRIOS TORRONTÉS Argentina
1834 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 mL $16.95
NOW $14.95 Save $2.00

WILLM RESERVE PINOT GRIS
AC Alsace, France
42495 (XD – 8 g/L) 750 mL $18.95
NOW $17.95 Save $1.00

FLAT ROCK RIESLING
VQA Niagara Peninsula,
43281 (D – 11 g/L)
750 mL REG. $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2


R E D W I N ES

CATHEDRAL CELLAR CABERNET SAUVIGNON
WO Western Cape, South Africa
328567 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $16.95 Save $3.00

DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS PÉTALOS
DO Bierzo, Spain
446484 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $29.95
NOW $26.95 Save $3.00

LA MASCOTA CABERNET SAUVIGNON Mendoza, Argentina
292110 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $16.95
NOW $14.95 Save $2.00

PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH
WO Swartland, South Africa
595280 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $16.95
NOW $13.95 Save $3.00

RICASOLI ROCCA GUICCIARDA
RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
943613 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $24.95
NOW $21.95 Save $3.00

THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER
South Australia
66738 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Valle del Maipo, Chile
18721 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $18.95
NOW $15.95 Save $3.00

WAKEFIELD ESTATE SHIRAZ
Clare Valley, South Australia
943787 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

TOMMASI RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA
CLASSICO SUPERIORE
DOC, Veneto, Italy
910430 (D – 7 g/L)
750 mL REG. $27.95
NOW $25.95


FOR MORE SELECTIONS, GO TO -- https://www.lcbo.com/en/products#t=clp-products&sort=relevancy&layout=card&f:@lcbo_current_offer=[On%20Sale]

** Some New Wines I Tasted Over the Past Season --- 

REPORT ON THE ACID TRIP OF THE LIVING VINE May 2025

The Date and Time: May 5, 2025, 1PM-5PM
The Event: A curated collection of biodynamic, organic, and natural wines from around the world
The Venue: Society Clubhouse, College Street
The Target Audience: today it was the Licensees; yesterday (May 4) it was the Living Vine clients.
The Availability/Catalogue: everything was available by the LCBO Consignment ordering system, by the case.
The Quote/Background: there were ten tables with pourers and information. Overall, there were 85 or so regular wines with alcohol, a few apple ciders, and some proxies with all the complexities of wine and none of the alcohol. Proxies are a new form of wine alternative—not dealcoholized wine, but layered blends of fruit, teas, spices, and bitters, designed to pair with food. I did not taste any of these..indeed, I did not even taste all the 85 regular wines....

The Wines:  prices are for Licensees....

**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Recaredo Intens Rosat 2020 [fizz] Penedes $65.95 (in six pack)

-Viberti Moscato d'Asti 2024 Piedmont $20.66
-Viberti Pubblicano Doglia Dolcetto 2023 Piedmont $24.26
-Viberti Nebbiolo Langhe 2023 Pidmont $33.26
-Viberti Buon Padre Barolo 2021 $62.06 (in six pack)
-Viberti San Pedro Barolo Riserva 2019 $144.86 (in six pack)
-Viberti Bricco delle Viole Nebbiolo Piedmont 2019 $167.36 (in six pack)
-Berlioz Les Christine 2022 Savoie $134.96 (in six pack)
-Battenfeld Spanier Riesling Trocken Rheinhessen 2023 $24.95
-Camas Chardonnay 2023 Languedoc $17.95 
-Antica Enotria Rosso IGT Puglia $21.95
-Lobetia Tempranillo La Mancha Spain $16.95
-COS Rami 2022 Sicily $37.95
-Occhipinti SP68 Rosso Sicily $36.95
-Masseria Cuturi Tuma Primitivo 2022 Puglia $23.95
-Filippi Vindagoti Garganega IGT NV Veneto $39.56 (one litre in six pack)
-Le Piane Nebbiolo 2023 Piedmont $30.95
-Famille Fabre Pirouette White Languedoc $20.95
-David Reynaud Crozes "Georges" Rhone 2022 (in six pack)
-Patrick Sullivan Chardonnay Victoria Australia 2023 $29.66
-Ant Moore Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough New Zealand $22.95

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (87 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Partida Creus NV 9% [fizz] Penedes $39.95
-Viberti Derthona Timorasso 2023 Piedmont $45.86 (in six pack)
-Viberti Rinato Chardonnay 2023 Piedmont $62.05 (in six pack)
-Viberti La Volta Barolo Riserva 2019 $144.86 (in six pack)
-Therianthropy Bonni Vivant Sous Voile Chardonnay VQA Ontario $26.79
-Madame Flock Class A Riesling 2023 Mosel $27.95
-Massimago Gastone Amarones 2020 $74.95 (in six pack)

The Food: none
The Downside: I came early because of the TTC service which sometimes never exists. The tasting was also congested.
The Upside: A chance to taste many natural wines on a global basis.
The Contact Person: mark@thelivingvine.ca
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 89

Dean Tudor,  Prof Emeritus T'karonto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) School of Journalism

Treasurer of Wine Writers' Circle of Canada http://www.deantudor.com
http://gothicepicures.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/gothicepicures

Virus-free.www.avg.com

Wine Reviews of Featherstone Estate Winery releases...

1.Featherstone Estate Winery Four Feathers 2024 VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 +341586 continuously available at LCBO: a summer social sipper or, combining Riesling (60.1%), pinot grigio (18.2%), chardonnay (12.6%), and gewurztraminer (9.1%) – all highly aromatic grapes. The percentages of the grape varieties change from vintage to vintage depending on vineyard conditions. Stainless steel fermentation. Typical fruit flavours to be found include pineapple, melon, lemon, some mango, and some sweet parts of citric tones near the finish. A popular seller, about 1068 cases. Incredibly fresh with juicy-fruity tones for summer picnics. Vegan friendly. 14.3 g/L residual sugar. 12.5% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 90 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.


2.Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc 2022 VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 +64618 Vintages Essential: a consistent blend  of 95% cabernet franc and 5% merlot. US oak was used. Full malolactic fermentation. Medium-bodied with an assortment of tastes of dark cherry-berry and plums, some leafy herby qualities. Black pepper shows on palate. Long, long finish showing tart-ish food-loving ripe acid balances. Should go well with BBQ veggies. Could keep for another few years (I tasted one bottle over a week) but ready now. Vegan friendly. 3 g/L residual sugar. 12.5% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 92 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.



3.Featherstone Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2024 VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 +89011 available at LCBO August 30th: 20% of this wine went into neutral Canadian oak barrels for fermentation, leaving 80% for stainless steel. That contributed to the softness and to the muted tones of grassiness. Tropical flowers are accented rather than tropical fruit, and this too adds to its dryness culminating with ending lime citrus notes for a long finish. It's a great wine for savvy lovers who go for complexity rather than just herbs. At the same time, this allows for more food choices. Vegan friendly. 9.5 g/L residual sugar, 12.5% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 92 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.



4.Featherstone Estate Winery Black Sheep Riesling 2023 VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 +80234 Vintages Essential: more in the off-dry Mosel mode than Rhine wine, this delicious all riesling sipper is loaded with a nose of citrus highlights (lemon, plentiful lime, grapefruit) evolving to Ontario orchard fruit (green apples, peaches, pears) on the mid-palate with some minerality and a long finish which also makes it nifty food wine for many Asiatic dishes. Medium body, off-dry. Suitable for aging to get that "petrol" character. Consistent vintage. 9.01% ABV.  RS 20.45 g/L. Vegan friendly. Quality/Price rating is 91 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.


5.Featherstone Estate Winery Rose 2024 VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 +117861 Vintages available June 7 AND again on September 27: over the years, this rose has had varying amounts of grape varieties – all dependent on what wily winemaker David Johnson sees as the best possible blend. In the past it has had pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon, as well as gamay noir, merlot, chardonnay, gewurztraminer and cabernet franc. It's an extremely useful wine for any event, any occasion, with any food, or just alone as a sipper on the beach/patio/deck/terrace/backyard/porch/balcony – even in front of a roaring fireplace (as I did just this week when the temperature unexpectedly dropped). Expect plenty of red fruit tones (strawberry, cranberry, cherry and raspberry) in its deliciousness. Great price. Vegan friendly. 9g/L residual sugar, 13% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 90 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.



6.Featherstone Estate Winery Gemstone 2023 VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 available July 19 Vintages LCBO +46055, currently for sale ONLINE and at the winery: Gemstone is a light red wine, with cabernet franc (57.1%) and merlot (42.9%) suggesting an ease of palate delivery and sipping. After developing in stainless steel and with full malolactic, the wine is aged in 2 months of oak. On the nose you can expect plums and raspberry tones, followed by dark cherries and oak. The cabernet franc contributes some dried herb savouriness, making it an ideal wine for pairing with appropriate appetizers or first courses. The merlot completes the picture with soft velvet mouthfeel. Ready now but can keep for a few years. 2g/L RS. 11.6% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.

Dean Tudor,  Prof Emeritus T'karonto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) School of Journalism

Treasurer of Wine Writers' Circle of Canada http://www.deantudor.com
http://gothicepicures.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/gothicepicures

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES: under/over $20 for JULY 5, 2025 release.

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES:  under/over $20 for JULY 5, 2025 release.

By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. My "Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net", a guide to thousands of wine news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, has been at  https://pages.pathcom.com/~dtudor since 1994. These notes for better or best wines available through  LCBO Vintages (on a bi-weekly basis)  can always be found at http://www.gothicepicures.blogspot.ca  or at https://pages.pathcom.com/~dtudor No winery can buy their way into – or out of – my publication.
Scores are a combination of MVC (Modal Varietal Character, e.g. a Southern Rhone would taste like a Southern Rhone) and QPR (Quality/Price Ratio value in the marketplace, above or below its price).
I was one of the first to jump on the Robert Parker bandwagon, using numerical indications for my scores in the early 1980s. Why? Because with a database I could rate, rank and order wines in any fashion. It was just so convenient using databases. Unfortunately, the numerical system has been shown to be disgraced by overuse and "inflated numbers"; thus I have quit any ranking by number. From now on, it will just be GOOD, BETTER and BEST, which will give me some wiggle room (e.g. is this wine an 87, 88, 89, or 90? Or all of them...depends on my mood and time of day). With the rigorous standards and lab testing by the LCBO, I can safely say that every single wine at the LCBO is at least GOOD, which I would numerically rank at 75-85 points. For reasons of time and space, I will NOT be listing the GOOD wines. Just the BETTER (86-89) and the BEST (90+ ) wines. This spread of points will relate to SILVER and GOLD medals, with GOOD being BRONZE.  This also fits into my scheme for trade tastings.
MVC/QPR=BETTER (86-89)=basic recommendation
MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)=superior wine

MAJOR THEME:  Sunny Mediterranean Wines -- Sipping Summer

**ROSE under $20 --- 

+53421 FIELDING ROSÉ VQA 2024  $17.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
CHILE +43407 MONTES LIMITED SELECTION ROSE 2024 $16.95
FRANCE +37678 C'EST TROP ROSÉ 2024 $16.95
PROVENCE +319392 CHÂTEAU LA TOUR DE L'ÉVÊQUE ROSÉ 2024 $20.95
+43568 CHÂTEAU DE L'AUMÉRADE AUMÉRADE STYLE ROSÉ 2024 $19.95  
TUSCANY +556266 RICASOLI ALBIA ROSÉ 2024 $18.95
VENEZIE +25752 SANTA MARGHERITA ROSÉ 2024 $18.95
NEW ZEALAND +43353 ERADUS SADIE ROSÉ 2024 $19.95

Recommended Wines UNDER $20 
=========================
W+AUSTRALIA +41892 DELINQUENTE SCREAMING BETTY VERMENTINO 2024 $19.95  
W+41435 EVANS & TATE WILD CAPE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022 AUSTRALIA $19.95 
W+LANGUEDOC +40434 LAURENT MIQUEL ALAINA BLANC 2022 $18.95
W+RHÔNE +18600 LES DAUPHINS RESERVE CÔTES DU RHÔNE BLANC 2023 $14.95
W+11670 GORGHI TONDI COSTE A PREOLA GRILLO 2023 $18.95
W+646067 AVELEDA LOUREIRO 2023 PORTUGAL $14.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
SOUTH AFRICA +439554 AVONDALE JONTY'S DUCKS PEKIN WHITE 2021 $18.95
SPAIN +461327 BERONIA RUEDA VERDEJO 2024 $15.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)

R+CHILE +542183 RAVANAL GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 $16.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
R+178657 NIETO SENETINER DON NICANOR MALBEC 2022 $17.95
R+41787 THE LANE ADELAIDE HILLS LDR 2022 AUSTRALIA $19.95
BORDEAUX +123489 CHÂTEAU HAUCHAT 2022 $19.95
+224915 DOMAINES ANDRÉ AUBERT VISAN CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2023 $17.95
ABRUZZO +396382 ZACCAGNINI TRALCETTO MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO 2022 $18.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
PORTUGAL +43854 MARQUÊS DE BORBA COLHEITA RED 2022 $15.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+
SOUTH AFRICA +41452 SPIER SEAWARD SHIRAZ 2022 $19.95
SPAIN +13632 PALACIO DE PRIMAVERA VENDIMIA SELECCIONADA RESERVA 2020 $19.95 


Recommended Wines OVER $20 
========================
Fizz - NEW ZEALAND+280172 OYSTER BAY ROSÉ SPARKLING CUVÉE $23.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
W+36806 LE CLOS JORDANNE CLAYSTONE TERRACE CHARDONNAY 2022 VQA $42 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
W+45618 HIDDEN BENCH BÉTON CHARDONNAY 2023 VQA $29.95
W+112227 DOMAINE CHEVALLIER CHABLIS 2023 $37.95
W+SICILY 577676 TORNATORE ETNA BIANCO 2024 $24.95

TUSCANY +344416 CASTELGREVE RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2020 $23.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
+438580 QUERCECCHIO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2020 $38.95
R+PIEDMONT 638338 MARZIANO ABBONA I DUE RICU 2021 $21.95 MVC/QPR=BEST (90+)
RHÔNE +981787 DOMAINE DU GRAPILLON D'OR 1806 GIGONDAS 2021 $39.95

LIMITED TIME OFFERS: Some Recommended Wines from the LCBO's Limited Time Offer selections...these  are "better or best" value...on sale  June 23 to July 20...

FIZZ

13TH STREET CUVÉE BRUT SPARKLING ROSÉ
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario,
traditional method, sustainable, vegan
147504 (XD – 9 g/L) 750 mL $29.95
NOW $26.95 Save $3.00

CAVE SPRING BLANC DE BLANCS BRUT SPARKLING
VQA Niagara Escarpment, Ontario,
traditional method, sustainable, vegan
213983 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $32.95
NOW $29.95 Save $3.00

CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES BRUT SPARKLING
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario,
traditional method
224766 (D – 12 g/L) 750 mL $30.95
NOW $27.95 Save $3.00

TAWSE SPARK LIMESTONE RIDGE ORGANIC BRUT SPARKLING RIESLING
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment,
Ontario, traditional method
370361 (M – 19 g/L) 750 mL $24.95
NOW $21.95 Save $3.00


W H I T E W I N ES

CLOSSON CHASE THE BROCK CHARDONNAY
VQA Niagara River,
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
20899 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $24.95
NOW $22.95 Save $2.00

FERZO ABRUZZO PECORINO SUPERIORE
DOP, Abruzzo, Italy
573683 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $17.95
NOW $15.95 Save $2.00

KIM CRAWFORD MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
35386 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $21.95
NOW $18.95 Save $3.00

FLAT ROCK TWISTED WHITE
VQA Niagara Peninsula,
Ontario, sustainable
1578 (D – 12 g/L)
750 mL REG. $17.95
NOW $15.95  Save $2

ZENATO SAN BENEDETTO LUGANA
DOC, Veneto, Italy
707158 (XD – 7 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00


R E D W I N ES

CAVE SPRING PINOT NOIR 
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario,
sustainable, vegan
417642 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 mL $21.95
NOW $18.95 Save $3.00

MALIVOIRE FARMSTEAD GAMAY
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario,
sustainable, vegan
591313 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

MONTE ZOVO SA' SOLIN VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO SUPERIORE
DOC, Veneto, Italy
650713 (D – 12 g/L) 750 mL $24.95
NOW $22.95 Save $2.00

MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Valle de Colchagua, Chile
322586 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 mL $22.95
NOW $20.95 Save $2.00

PENFOLDS KOONUNGA HILL SHIRAZ/CABERNET
South Australia
285544 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $18.95
NOW $16.45 Save $2.50

SAN FELICE CHIANTI CLASSICO
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
282996 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $20.95
NOW $18.95 Save $2.00

SELLA & MOSCA RISERVA CANNONAU DI SARDEGNA
DOC, Sardinia, Italy
425488 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 mL $19.95
NOW $16.95 Save $3.00


** Some New Wines I Tasted Over the Past Season --- 

From Featherstone VQA Niagara  May 2025

1.Featherstone Estate Winery Four Feathers 2024 VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 +341586 continuously available at LCBO: a summer social sipper or, combining Riesling (60.1%), pinot grigio (18.2%), chardonnay (12.6%), and gewurztraminer (9.1%) – all highly aromatic grapes. The percentages of the grape varieties change from vintage to vintage depending on vineyard conditions. Stainless steel fermentation. Typical fruit flavours to be found include pineapple, melon, lemon, some mango, and some sweet parts of citric tones near the finish. A popular seller, about 1068 cases. Incredibly fresh with juicy-fruity tones for summer picnics. Vegan friendly. 14.3 g/L residual sugar. 12.5% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 90 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.


2.Featherstone Estate Winery Cabernet Franc 2022 VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 +64618 Vintages Essential: a consistent blend  of 95% cabernet franc and 5% merlot. US oak was used. Full malolactic fermentation. Medium-bodied with an assortment of tastes of dark cherry-berry and plums, some leafy herby qualities. Black pepper shows on palate. Long, long finish showing tart-ish food-loving ripe acid balances. Should go well with BBQ veggies. Could keep for another few years (I tasted one bottle over a week) but ready now. Vegan friendly. 3 g/L residual sugar. 12.5% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 92 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.


3.Featherstone Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2024 VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 +89011 available at LCBO August 30th: 20% of this wine went into neutral Canadian oak barrels for fermentation, leaving 80% for stainless steel. That contributed to the softness and to the muted tones of grassiness. Tropical flowers are accented rather than tropical fruit, and this too adds to its dryness culminating with ending lime citrus notes for a long finish. It's a great wine for savvy lovers who go for complexity rather than just herbs. At the same time, this allows for more food choices. Vegan friendly. 9.5 g/L residual sugar, 12.5% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 92 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.


4.Featherstone Estate Winery Black Sheep Riesling 2023 VQA Niagara Peninsula $19.95 +80234 Vintages Essential: more in the off-dry Mosel mode than Rhine wine, this delicious all riesling sipper is loaded with a nose of citrus highlights (lemon, plentiful lime, grapefruit) evolving to Ontario orchard fruit (green apples, peaches, pears) on the mid-palate with some minerality and a long finish which also makes it nifty food wine for many Asiatic dishes. Medium body, off-dry. Suitable for aging to get that "petrol" character. Consistent vintage. 9.01% ABV.  RS 20.45 g/L. Vegan friendly. Quality/Price rating is 91 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.


5.Featherstone Estate Winery Rose 2024 VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 +117861 Vintages available June 7 AND again on September 27: over the years, this rose has had varying amounts of grape varieties – all dependent on what wily winemaker David Johnson sees as the best possible blend. In the past it has had pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon, as well as gamay noir, merlot, chardonnay, gewurztraminer and cabernet franc. It's an extremely useful wine for any event, any occasion, with any food, or just alone as a sipper on the beach/patio/deck/terrace/backyard/porch/balcony – even in front of a roaring fireplace (as I did just this week when the temperature unexpectedly dropped). Expect plenty of red fruit tones (strawberry, cranberry, cherry and raspberry) in its deliciousness. Great price. Vegan friendly. 9g/L residual sugar, 13% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 90 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.



6.Featherstone Estate Winery Gemstone 2023 VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 available July 19 Vintages LCBO +46055, currently for sale ONLINE and at the winery: Gemstone is a light red wine, with cabernet franc (57.1%) and merlot (42.9%) suggesting an ease of palate delivery and sipping. After developing in stainless steel and with full malolactic, the wine is aged in 2 months of oak. On the nose you can expect plums and raspberry tones, followed by dark cherries and oak. The cabernet franc contributes some dried herb savouriness, making it an ideal wine for pairing with appropriate appetizers or first courses. The merlot completes the picture with soft velvet mouthfeel. Ready now but can keep for a few years. 2g/L RS. 11.6% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures Writing.

Dean Tudor,  Prof Emeritus T'karonto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) School of Journalism

Treasurer of Wine Writers' Circle of Canada http://www.deantudor.com
http://gothicepicures.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/gothicepicures