WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES: under/over $20 for SEPTEMBER 27, 2025 release.

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES:  under/over $20 for  SEPTEMBER 27, 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:  Mature Wines

Top Wines UNDER $20 
=================
       
ROSE+43531 RAYMOND LES HAUTES DE LAGARDE BORDEAUX ROSÉ 2024 $18.95 
ROSE+32422 LYV ROSÉ LANGUEDOC NV $19.95
FIZZ+29948 FAUSTINO BRUT CAVA NV $16.95

W+540823 SECRETO DE VIU MANENT GRAN RESERVA SAUVIGNON BLANC 2023 CHILE $16.95
W+734798 THORNBURY SAUVIGNON BLANC 2024 NEW ZEALAND $18.95
W+43360 TE PA MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2024 NEW ZEALAND $18.95
W+44952 LAVRADORES DE FEITORIA WHITE 2023 PORTUGAL $15.95
W+18687 ALVI'S DRIFT PRIVATE CELLAR SIGNATURE RANGE VIOGNIER 2024 SOUTH AFRICA $14.95
W+146423 SUTHERLAND CHARDONNAY 2021 SOUTH AFRICA $19.95
W+437707 ONTAÑÓN VIURA 2021 SPAIN $17.95

R+36238 THOMAS GOSS MCLAREN VALE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2022 $16.95
R+30994 CONCHA Y TORO CASILLERO DEL DIABLO RESERVA ESPECIAL CABERNET CHILE $17.95
R+44199 CHATEAU DE LYDE CADILLAC CÔTES DE BORDEAUX 2021 $16.95
R+540831 CHÂTEAU DU GRAND CAUMONT CUVÉE TRADITION CORBIÈRES 2023  $13.95 
R+380675 DOMAINE AUTRAND CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2023 $16.95
R+729962 DELAS SAINT-ESPRIT CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2022 $19.95
R+13034 IUZZOLINI CIRÒ ROSSO CLASSICO 2023 CALABRIA $18.95
R+642421 VALPANTENA TORRE DEL FALASCO VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO 2022 $19.95
R+50930 QUINTA DAS SETENCOSTAS ALENQUER RED 2020 PORTUGAL $13.95
R+166579 MONASTERIO DE LAS VIÑAS RESERVA 2020 SPAIN $16.95
R+295618 CAVINO NEMEA GRANDE RESERVE 2018 GREECE  $19.95

Top Wines OVER $20 
================
FIZZ+42057 ACKERMAN BULLE ROYALE CRÉMANT DE LOIRE BRUT SPARKLING  $20.95

W+25235 CAVE SPRING ESTATE PINOT GRIS 2022 VQA $27.95 
W+747600 PIERRE SPARR GRANDE RÉSERVE GEWURZTRAMINER 2023 $20.95
W+26431 BLASON DE BOURGOGNE BOURGOGNE CHARDONNAY 2022  $22.95 
W+ 23988 TERRES SECRÈTES LES PRÉLUDES MÂCON-VILLAGES 2023 $23.95
W+36446 PANIZZI VERNACCIA DI SAN GIMIGNANO 2023 $24.95

R+142398 WAKEFIELD JARAMAN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2022  AUSTRALIA $24.95
R+47390 RAVINE GAMAY NOIR 2022 VQA $22.95
R+355008 PELLER PRIVATE RESERVE PINOT NOIR 2022 VQA $29.95
R+594002 JACKSON-TRIGGS GRAND RESERVE MERITAGE 2022 VQA  $29.95
R+45086 MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 CHILE  $32.95
R+637835 CHÂTEAU DES TOURS BROUILLY 2023 BEAULOLAIS $22.95
R+44663 AGRAMONT GRAN RESERVA 2015 SPAIN $22.95
R+573485 CASTELLI DEL GREVEPESA CASTELGREVE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2021  $22.95

LIMITED TIME OFFERS: Some Recommended Wines from the LCBO's Limited Time Offer selections...these  are "better" value...on sale  through Sunday October 12, 2025....

W H I T E W I N ES

ANSELMI SAN VINCENZO
IGT Veneto, Italy
948158 (XD – 6 g/L) 750 ml $18.95
NOW $16.95 Save $2.00

CLOSSON CHASE THE BROCK CHARDONNAY 
VQA Niagara River, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
20899 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 ml $24.95
NOW $22.95 Save $2.00

FIELDING UNOAKED CHARDONNAY 
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
164491 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $16.95
NOW $15.45 Save $1.50

FLAT ROCK CELLARS CHARDONNAY
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
286278 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 ml $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

OYSTER BAY CHARDONNAY
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
326728 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 ml $20.95
NOW $17.95 Save $3.00

THIRTY BENCH WINEMAKER'S BLEND RIESLING 
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario
24133 (D – 16 g/L) 750 ml $22.95
NOW $21.95 Save $1.00

VINELAND ESTATES ELEVATION ST.URBAN VINEYARD RIESLING
VQA Niagara Escarpment, Ontario
38117 (M – 33 g/L) 750 ml $22.95
NOW $19.95 Save $3.00

R E D W I N ES

13TH STREET GAMAY  VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
177824 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 ml $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

FEATHERSTONE CABERNET FRANC
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
64618 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

LOUIS JADOT BEAUJOLAIS-VILLAGES
AC, Beaujolais, France
365924 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $25.95
NOW $23.95 Save $2.00

OYSTER BAY PINOT NOIR
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand,
590414 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 ml $21.95
NOW $18.95 Save $3.00

CHÂTEAU TEYSSIER
AC Montagne-Saint-Émilion,
Bordeaux, France
226035 (XD – 2 g/L)
750 ml REG. $27.95
NOW $24.95 Save $3

THE FOREIGN AFFAIR THE CONSPIRACY
VQA Niagara Peninsula,
149237 (XD – 3 g/L)
750 ml REG. $19.95
NOW $16.95 Save $3

TAWSE GROWERS BLEND PINOT NOIR
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
130989 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 ml $29.95
NOW $26.95 Save $3.00


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 LIFFORD CELLARS GRAND TASTING GUIDE MAY 2025

The Date and Time: May 14, 2025  1:30PM - 4:30PM
The Event: Lifford Grand Tasting
The Venue: The Carlu
The Target Audience: wine media and sommeliers, private clients
The Availability/Catalogue: A nice solid booklet of some 64 pages, spiral bound with all the details of producer, name, vintage, price, availability (con or pvt or winery direct or LCBO) -- some wines were only available to taste.
The Quote/Background: 12 countries and 56 producers were involved --     
    Argentina: Finca Decero, Grupo Colomé, Humberto Canale Winery.
    Australia: Endeavour Group, Shaw + Smith.
    Canada: Bachelder, Poplar Grove, Tawse Winery. 
    Chile: Santa Rita Estates, Viña Echeverria.
    France: Champagne Billecart Salmon, Champagne Bruno Paillard, Château Gassier, Château Capet Guillier, Château de Pommard, Château de Sancerre, Domaine Cazes, Domaine Gueneau, Domaine Laroche, Domaine Laura Bourdy, Domaine Zinck, Famille Quiot, L'Oratoire Des Papes, Maison Champy, Ogier, TWINS Bordeaux, Vignobles Jean-Jean.
    Germany: Dr. Loosen.
    Italy: Allegrini Wines, Cabert, Cotarella Family, Dal Cero Family, Ethica Wines, Gigi Rosso, Il Poggione, Marchesi di Grésy, Paolo Scavino, Poggio al Tesoro, Rivera, Sebastian Van de Sype / Frank Cornelissen, Speri, Travaglini.
    New Zealand: Allan Scott Family Winemakers, Staete Landt Wine Company. 
    Portugal: Ramos Pinto (including ports).
    South Africa: B Vintners | Raats, Boschendal, Bruce Jack Wines, 
    Spain: Altolandon, Familia Martinez Zabala (Faustino), Giro Ribot.
    USA: Delicato Family Wines, Masut Vineyard & Winery.

The Wines: Again, I could not taste all of them, just the ones below...Prices are for licensees.

**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Champagne Billecart Salmon Le Reserve NV $94.99
-Champagne Billecart Salmon Nicolas Francois 2012 $314.99
-Champagne Bruno Paillard Premiere Cuvee Extra Brut $104.99
-Champagne Bruno Paillard Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Extra Brut $156.99
-Champagne Bruno Paillard Rose Extra Brut NV $142.99
-Allan Scott Cecilia Brut NV Marlborough New Zealand $29.99
-Leonie de la Chateau la Tour Blanche 2023 Bordeaux $61.99
-Chateau Brane Cantenac Blanc 2021 Bordeaux $149.99
-Dr.Loosen Urziger Wurzgarten 2021 Mosel $59.99
-Domaine Laroche Chablis Les Vaudevey 2022  $61.99
-Staete Landt State of Grace Pinot Noir 2019 New Zealand $36.99
-Staete Landt State of Liberation Pinot Noir Otago New Zealand $69.99
-Finca Decero Amano Blen Remolinos Mendoza 2020 $66.99
-ll  Poggione Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli $142.99
-Chateau de Trignon Gigondas 2019 Rhone $46.99
-Bachelder Ivy & Warren Saunders Haut Chardonnay 2022 VQA $38.87
-Bachelder Wismer Wingfield Chardonnay 2022 VQA $47.63
-Tawse Robyn's Block Chardonnay 2022 VQA $37.29
-Tawse David's Block Blanc de Blancs 2011 VQA Fizz $42
-Domaine Zinck Riesling Grand Cru Eichberg 2019 Alsace $66.99
-Domaine Zinck Riesling Grand Cru Goldert 2019 Alsace $66.99
-Bruce Jack Reserve Chardonnay 2023 South Africa   ????
-Chateau du Trignon Cotes du Rhone White Marsanne 2022 $23.99
-Domaine Duclaux Chateauneuf-du-Pape White 2023 $63.99

***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (87 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Sancerre Blanc La Guiberte, 2024, Domaine Alain Gueneau, Loire Valley $42.99
-Tenuta Il Poggione Vermentino/Chardonnay 2024 Tuscany $20.99
-Black Stallion Heritage Chardonnay Carneros California 2022 $34.99
-Allegrini Amarone 2020 Veneto $119.99
-Familia Martinez Zaballa Gran Reserva Faustino 2004  $119.99
-Shaw + Smith M3 Chardonnay 2023 Adelaide Hills $43.99
-Laurent Miquel Nord Sud Viognier 2023 $16.99
-Boschendal Cap Classique Brut Rose NV South Africa $29.99

The Food: there were two charcuterie tables, with cured and smoked meats (Italianate), smoked salmon, Canadian cheese, marinated mushrooms, artichokes, pickled giardiniera, cured tomatoes, mixed olives, Oliver and Bonacini artisan breads, biscuits, crostini, grissini.
The Downside: nothing beyond a slight confusion over the booklet's page numbers and table numbers - but I needed the walk around exercise!!
The Upside: it was good for Lifford to be back at the grand tasting events -- it has been a long time, six years.
The Contact Person: grandtasting@lifford.com
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 92+

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

REPORT ON TRE BICCHIERI 2025 WINE TASTING EVENT TORONTO

REPORT ON TRE BICCHIERI 2025 WINE TASTING EVENT TORONTO

The Date and Time: May 12, 2025  12:30 PM - 4:30PM
The Event: Tre Bicchieri tasting in Toronto
The Venue: Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex
The Target Audience: wine trade and wine media
The Availability/Catalogue: QR codes were used.
The Quote/Background: this was a smaller assortment of wines than usual. The crowd remained the same size as always. The masterclass was on Abruzzo wines. Here are the participating wineries:

ANDREOLA ARILLO IN TERRABIANCA BERSANO
BERTANI CASALE DEL GIGLIO
CASTELLO DI GABBIANO
CASTELLO DI QUERCETO COLOGNOLE
CORTONESI CUSUMANO FAMIGLIA CECCHI
FRANCESCO TORNATORE GIODO IL BORRO
ISTINE LE MICCINE MARCHESI FRESCOBALDI
MARIA CATERINA DEI MARILISA ALLEGRINI
MASCIARELLI MENHIR MARANGELLI
MEZZACORONA OTTELLA PANIZZI
PASINI SAN GIOVANNI PASQUA
ROCCA DELLE MACÌE - FAMIGLIA ZINGARELLI
SORELLE BRONCA TENUTA BORGO CONVENTI
TENUTA CASADEI TENUTA DI ARCENO
TENUTA STELLA TORRE A CONA
UMANI RONCHI VILLA SANDI VINICOLA ARNO
ZENATO

The Wines: [I did not notice any Franciacorta, and please excuse any typos, thx]

**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Villa Della Torre [Valpolicella, Amarone & Lugana]
-Poggio al Tesoro Bolgheri Allegrini
-San Polo Montalcino Allegrini
-Tenuta della Famiglia Cecchi Villa Rosa Gran Selezione Chianti Classico 2020
-Famigilia Cecchi Villa Cerna Primocolle 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva
-Cecchi Chianti Classico 2021
-Castello di Roncade Treviso Cabernet Piave Veneto 2022 $19.95 Tifa
-Poggio tonde Chianti Il Presone 2017 $26.95 Tifa
-Giuliana Vicini Pescura Trebbiano d'Abrusso 2023 $19.95 Tifa
-Jasci & Marchesani Nerube Pecorino Superiore 2024 organic
-Jasci & Marchesani Nerube Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo  2024 organic
-Jasci & Marchesani Trebbiano d'Abruzzo  2024 organic
-Tornatore Etna Rosso 2023 Sicily 
-Tornatore Etna Rosso  Pietrarizzo 2022 Sicily
-Tornatore Etna Rosso  Riserva 2020 Sicily
-Tornatore Etna Bianco 2023
-Tornatore Etna Rosato 2024 Sicily
-Torre A Cona Rosso dell' anno single vineyard
-Torre A Cona Molino degli Innocenti Chianti Colli Fiorentini Riserva
-Torre A Cona  Badia a Corte Chianti Colli Fiorentini Riserva
-Torre A Cona Terre di Cino Chianti Colli Fiorentini Riserva
-Torre A Cona Vermentino Maremma Toscana 2024
-Stephania Pepe Trebbiano d'Abruzzo Cuore di Vino 2006
-Stephania Pepe Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo Pepe Rosa 2005


***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (87 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Frescobaldi Chianti Rufina Nipozanno Riserva 2021
-Zenato Lugana Riserva 2021
-Cantina Tollo Pecorino Orapiena 2024
-Cantina Tollo  Orapiena Riserva 2024
-Montepulciano d'Abrusso Pierame 2022
-Torre A Cona Fontesanta Toscana Rosato IGT 2024
-Ciavolich IGT Terre d'Abruzzo Pecorino Aries 2024
-Ciavolich Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Divus 2020
-Cirelli Pecorino Abruzzo 2022 organic
-Valori Colline Teramane Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo Superiore organic
-Valori Abruzzo Pecorino Chiamami Quando Piove 2024 organic

The Food: there were cheese boards, meat boards, marinated roasted bell peppers, salads, breads, sun dried tomatoes, and some cooked orecchiette from Puro Artignale, and espresso coffees roasted in Rome from Alunni. 
The Downside: a smaller show than in the past
The Upside: a chance to taste some really impressive Italian wines
The Contact Person: gamberorossocanada@sogood.it
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 88.

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

Eating Well 19 One-Pot Dinners That Aren’t Soup or Stew

-01 of 19 One-Pot White Bean, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo
This creamy orzo with white beans and sun-dried tomatoes is the ultimate weeknight winner, ready in just 30 minutes! This comforting dish combines tender orzo, protein-packed white beans and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy garlic-and-herb cheese sauce. 

-02 of 19 Cheesy One-Pot Chicken-Broccoli Orzo
This cheesy chicken-broccoli orzo is the ultimate weeknight game-changer. This dish brings crowd-pleasing flavors together in one pan for easy cleanup. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying, comforting and delicious. Sharp Cheddar cheese adds savory flavor, but another easy-melting cheese like Gruyère or Swiss would work well too.

-03 of 19 One-Pot Potato Curry
This potato curry recipe takes inspiration from both north and south Indian dishes, blending the aromatic spices common in the north, with a nod to thoran in the south with the addition of coconut milk. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pot adds to its appeal, allowing the flavors to meld together 

-04 of 19 One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli & Red Peppers
Shrimp and broccoli cook quickly in this easy one-pot recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. Serve this healthy shrimp recipe over whole-grains or rice.

-05 of 19 Creamy Pesto Beans
These creamy pesto beans come together in just 30 minutes. The sauce clings to tender white beans, and whatever is left is perfect for sopping up with a warm, crusty baguette. For a heartier meal, serve the beans over whole-grain pasta, letting the sauce coat every bite.

-06 of 19 Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet
In this healthy one-pan meal, ground beef and potatoes team up with colorful veggies, including kale, tomato and peppers. Everything is cooked in one skillet, which builds layers of flavor while also cutting back on the number of dishes.

-07 of 19 One-Pot Pasta With Spinach & Tomatoes
This one-pot pasta dinner is simple, fresh and healthy—what's not to love? Cooking the pasta right in the sauce saves time and cleanup while infusing the noodles with more flavor. This speedy recipe is also endlessly adaptable and lends itself to plenty of easy ingredient swaps.

-08 of 19 One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta
This one-pot pasta with tangy tomato-basil sauce is a simple, fast and easy weeknight dinner. All of your ingredients go into one pot, and with a bit of stirring and about 25 minutes of cook time, you'll have a healthy dinner the whole family will enjoy.

-09 of 19 American Goulash
Known as old-fashioned goulash, perfect economical family meal. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, so this satisfying dish can be made in just one pot.

-10 of 19 Eggs in Tomato Sauce with Chickpeas & Spinach
Simmer eggs in a rich tomatoey cream sauce studded with chickpeas and silky spinach for a super-fast vegetarian dinner. Serve with a piece of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Be sure to use heavy cream; a lower-fat option might curdle when mixed with acidic tomatoes.

-11 of 19 One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta
-This chicken Parmesan pasta uses the one-pot pasta method to cook your noodles, chicken and sauce all in one skillet for a fast and easy dinner.

-12 of 19 One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
Make this cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe for a busy weeknight dinner. Serve with a simple side salad and a glass of red wine.

-13 of 19 Baked Feta, Tomato & White Bean Skillet
This Baked Feta, Tomato & White Bean Skillet is the perfect dish for scooping up with your favorite toasted whole-grain bread. Juicy cherry tomatoes burst as they roast, mingling with creamy white beans to create a flavorful base. Chunky pieces of feta cheese are nestled into the skillet and baked until warm and soft. The result is a savory, creamy mix with tangy bites of feta in every bite.

-14 of 19 Baked Tomato & Feta Rice
Juicy roasted tomatoes and creamy melted feta are the stars in this flavorful casserole. Made in just one baking dish, this hearty dinner is the perfect choice for weeknights. If you want to amp up the tomato flavor, try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the casserole.

-15 of 19 Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Skillet
This creamy spinach-and-artichoke chicken skillet serves up the classic combo often reserved for dips, elevating it to main-dish status with the addition of quick-cooking chicken cutlets. It's a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, perfect for those busy nights when you crave something comforting yet sophisticated without spending hours in the kitchen. We prefer tender canned artichokes here, but be sure to give them a good rinse to wash away some of the sodium. Add some crushed red pepper to give this dish a little kick.

-16 of 19 Honey-Garlic Chicken Casserole Skillet
This honey-garlic chicken casserole is the perfect option for when you want a stir-fry with less mess to clean up. To keep prep to a minimum, we use precooked brown rice.

-17 of 19 Chickpeas alla Vodka
This Chickpeas alla Vodka is the ultra-quick, fiber-packed dinner you've been waiting for! Chickpeas are swimming in a creamy vodka sauce that gets enhancements from sautéed garlic, onion and vibrant green baby kale. Crispy, toasted whole-wheat bread is perfect for dipping. You can customize this dish easily by using spinach in place of kale.

-18 of 19 Skillet Spinach, Mushroom & Wild Rice Casserole
This wild rice and mushroom casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty, wholesome ingredients with rich, savory flavors all in one skillet. The earthiness of the wild rice pairs beautifully with the meaty mushrooms, while fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients. It's the perfect balance of texture and taste—a cozy, one-pan meal that's easy to make, which makes it even more comforting.

-19 of 19 Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Butter Beans
These creamy garlic-Parmesan butter beans are a quick and comforting plant-based dinner. Velvety butter beans are simmered in broth with plenty of garlic and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and flavorful stew-like dinner. Served with crusty bread for dipping.

Our 15 Most Popular One-Pot Dinners for Winter
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Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet
22 High-Protein Dinners You Can Make in One Skillet

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP WINES AT VINTAGES: under/over $20 for SEPTEMBER 13, 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:  Ontario Wines

Top Wines UNDER $20 
=================

FIZZ+42128 JULIEN BARTHAZAC BRUT CREMANT DE BORDEAUX  $19.95

W+37559 ESTERHÁZY KLIMT GRÜNER VELTLINER 2024 AUSTRIA $15.95
W+89029 TAWSE SKETCHES RIESLING 2022 VQA $19.95
W+303628 SANTA RITA MEDALLA REAL GRAN RESERVA CHARDONNAY 2023 CHILE $17.95 W+269852 WILLM GEWURZTRAMINER RESERVE 2022 ALSACE $19.95
W+44218 KTIMA KISSA PENTANEMI 2024 GREECE $18.95
W+17561 ORCHARD LANE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2024 NEW ZEALAND $19.95
W+610295 AVELEDA ALVARINHO 2024 PORTUGAL $15.95
W+45168 SIMONSIG STARTING BLOCKS CHENIN BLANC 2024 SOUTH AFRICA  $15.95  W+113696 VIÑA ESMERALDA 2024 SPAIN $14.95

R+28085 SOPHENIA KARMA MALBEC 2023 ARGENTINA $19.95
R+23905 KNAPPSTEIN CLARE VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 AUSTRALIA $19.95 
R+494690 DEMAZET ARMOIRIES TRADITION CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2023  $15.95
R+44211 OLIVIER COSTE OLD STAR CARIGNAN NOIR 2022 LANGUEDOC $19.95
R+17403 TORRE ZAMBRA MADIA MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO 2021 $16.95
R+10605 UGGIANO ROCCIALTA CHIANTI RISERVA 2021 $18.95

Top Wines OVER $20 
================

FIZZ+380030 KEW BLANC DE NOIRS 2020 VQA $32.95
FIZZ+130047 KRONE CUVÉE CAP CLASSIQUE BRUT ROSÉ CUVÉE SPARKLING 2022 SOUTH AFRICA $21.95

W+256552 CAVE SPRING ESTATE GROWN CHARDONNAY 2023 VQA $21.95
W+319640 THIRTY BENCH STEEL POST VINEYARD SMALLLOT RIESLING 2021 VQA $28.95
W+184549 LE CLOS JORDANNE LE GRAND CLOS CHARDONNAY 2021 VQA $55.00 
W+20455 LE CLOS JORDANNE JORDAN VILLAGE CHARDONNAY 2022 VQA $30.00
W+45172 PASCAL BOUCHARD BLANCS CAILLOUX PETIT CHABLIS 2023 $28.95
W+42445 DOMAINE FLEURIET TRADITION SANCERRE 2023 LOIRE $36.85
W+36445 FANTINI CALALENTA PECORINO 2024 ABRUZZI $20.95
W+17364 ELENA WALCH PINOT GRIGIO 2024 ALTO ADIGE $26.95
W+45453 DOMAINE CATHERINE & PIERRE BRETON CUVÉE TRINCH! ÉPAULÉ JETÉ LOIRE  $25.95
 
R+333229 WYNNS COONAWARRA ESTATE THE SIDING CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 AUSTRALIA $24.95
R+11582 BACHELDER LES VILLAGES BENCH PINOT NOIR 2023 VQA $34.95
R+427500 WESTCOTT ESTATE PINOT NOIR 2021 VQA $31.95
R+284570 TAWSE GROWERS BLEND CABERNET FRANC 2020 VQA $29.95
R+184564 LE CLOS JORDANNE LE GRAND CLOS PINOT NOIR 2021 VQA $55.00
R+42029 CELLIER DES SAINT-ETIENNE MOULIN-A-VENT 2022 BEAUJOLAIS  $24.95 
R+512111 CHÂTEAU BEL ORME TRONQUOY-DE-LALANDE 2019 BORDEAUX $34.95
R+40445 TSIMBIDI LA-LU-DI AGIORGITIKO 2022 GREECE $21.95
R+44670 ASCHERI S. GIACOMO NEBBIOLO 2023 PIEDMONT $29.95
R+276030 MURIEL RESERVA 2019 SPAIN $21.95

LIMITED TIME OFFERS: Some Recommended Wines from the LCBO's Limited Time Offer selections...these  are "better" value wines...on sale  to Sept. 14, 2025....better hurry!!!

W H I T E W I N ES & ROSE

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 $22.95 Save $2.00

MALIVOIRE LADYBUG ROSÉ
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario,
sustainable, vegan
559088 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 ml $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

BANFI PRINCIPESSA GAVIA GAVI
DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
250696 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $21.95
NOW $19.95 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

FLAT ROCK TWISTED WHITE
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, sustainable
1578 (D – 15 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

OYSTER BAY PINOT GRIGIO
Hawke's Bay, North Island, New Zealand
326090 (XD – 5 g/L) 750 ml $20.95
NOW $17.95 Save $3.00

PACO & LOLA ALBARIÑO
DO Rías Baixas, Spain
350041 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $23.95
NOW $21.95 Save $2.00

PIERRE SPARR GEWURZTRAMINER
AC Alsace, France
373373 (D – 16 g/L) 750 ml $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

WAKEFIELD ESTATE LABEL
CHARDONNAY
Clare Valley/Limestone Coast,
South Australia
711556 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $17.95
NOW $15.95 Save $2.00

R E D W I N ES

CONCHA Y TORO MARQUES DE CASA
CONCHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Puente Alto, Chile
337238 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $22.95
NOW $19.95 Save $3.00

KAIKEN ESTATE MALBEC
Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
58339 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $18.95
NOW $17.95 Save $1.00

LAN CRIANZA
DOCa Rioja, Spain
166538 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $18.95
NOW $16.95 Save $2.00

MONASTERIO DE LAS VIÑAS
GRAN RESERVA
DOP Cariñena, Spain
82024 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

MONASTERIO DE LAS VIÑAS RESERVA
DO Cariñena, Spain
166579 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $16.95
NOW $15.45 Save $1.50

ROCCA DELLE MACÌE RISERVA CHIANTI
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
111641 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $16.95
NOW $14.95 Save $2.00

UMBERTO CESARI LIANO
SANGIOVESE/CABERNET SAUVIGNON
IGT Rubicone, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
225086 (D – 11 g/L) 750 ml $29.95
NOW $24.95 Save $5.00

VIGNERONS DE BUXY BUISSONNIER
CÔTE CHALONNAISE PINOT NOIR
AC, Burgundy, France
28284 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $23.95
NOW $21.95 Save $2.00

ZONTE'S FOOTSTEP
CHOCOLATE FACTORY SHIRAZ
Vegan, McLaren Vale, South Australia
396481 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 ml $19.95
NOW $18.95 Save $1.00


LIMITED TIME OFFERS: Some Recommended Wines from the LCBO's Limited Time Offer selections...these  are "better" value...on sale  Mon Sept 15 through Sunday October 12, 2025....

W H I T E W I N ES

ANSELMI SAN VINCENZO
IGT Veneto, Italy
948158 (XD – 6 g/L) 750 ml $18.95
NOW $16.95 Save $2.00

CLOSSON CHASE THE BROCK CHARDONNAY 
VQA Niagara River,
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
20899 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 ml $24.95
NOW $22.95 Save $2.00

FIELDING UNOAKED CHARDONNAY
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
164491 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $16.95
NOW $15.45 Save $1.50

FLAT ROCK CELLARS CHARDONNAY 
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
286278 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 ml $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

OYSTER BAY CHARDONNAY
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
326728 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 ml $20.95
NOW $17.95 Save $3.00

THIRTY BENCH WINEMAKER'S BLEND RIESLING 
VQA Beamsville Bench,
Niagara Escarpment, Ontario
24133 (D – 16 g/L) 750 ml $22.95
NOW $21.95 Save $1.00

VINELAND ESTATES ELEVATION ST.
URBAN VINEYARD RIESLING 6
VQA Niagara Escarpment, Ontario
38117 (M – 33 g/L) 750 ml $22.95
NOW $19.95 Save $3.00

R E D W I N ES

13TH STREET GAMAY 
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, sustainable
177824 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 ml $19.95
NOW $17.95 Save $2.00

RED WINES

FEATHERSTONE CABERNET FRANC
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, vegan
64618 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $21.95
NOW $19.95 Save $2.00

LOUIS JADOT BEAUJOLAIS-VILLAGES
AC, Beaujolais, France
365924 (XD – 3 g/L) 750 ml $25.95
NOW $23.95 Save $2.00

OYSTER BAY PINOT NOIR
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand,
sustainable
590414 (XD – 4 g/L) 750 ml $21.95
NOW $18.95 Save $3.00

CHÂTEAU TEYSSIER AC Montagne-Saint-Émilion,
Bordeaux, France
226035 (XD – 2 g/L)
750 ml REG. $27.95
NOW $24.95 Save $3

THE FOREIGN AFFAIR THE CONSPIRACY
VQA Niagara Peninsula
149237 (XD – 3 g/L)
750 ml REG. $19.95
NOW $16.95 Save $3

TAWSE GROWERS BLEND PINOT NOIR
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
130989 (XD – 2 g/L) 750 ml $29.95
NOW $26.95 Save $3.00



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 Recent Wines that  I have tasted....


REPORT ON TRE BICCHIERI 2025 WINE TASTING EVENT TORONTO

The Date and Time: May 12, 2025  12:30 PM - 4:30PM
The Event: Tre Bicchieri tasting in Toronto
The Venue: Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex
The Target Audience: wine trade and wine media
The Availability/Catalogue: QR codes were used.
The Quote/Background: this was a smaller assortment of wines than usual. The crowd remained the same size as always. The masterclass was on Abruzzo wines. Here are the participating wineries:

ANDREOLA ARILLO IN TERRABIANCA BERSANO
BERTANI CASALE DEL GIGLIO
CASTELLO DI GABBIANO
CASTELLO DI QUERCETO COLOGNOLE
CORTONESI CUSUMANO FAMIGLIA CECCHI
FRANCESCO TORNATORE GIODO IL BORRO
ISTINE LE MICCINE MARCHESI FRESCOBALDI
MARIA CATERINA DEI MARILISA ALLEGRINI
MASCIARELLI MENHIR MARANGELLI
MEZZACORONA OTTELLA PANIZZI
PASINI SAN GIOVANNI PASQUA
ROCCA DELLE MACÌE - FAMIGLIA ZINGARELLI
SORELLE BRONCA TENUTA BORGO CONVENTI
TENUTA CASADEI TENUTA DI ARCENO
TENUTA STELLA TORRE A CONA
UMANI RONCHI VILLA SANDI VINICOLA ARNO
ZENATO

The Wines: [I did not notice any Franciacorta, and please excuse any typos, thx]

**** BEST -- Four Stars (91+ in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Villa Della Torre [Valpolicella, Amarone & Lugana]
-Poggio al Tesoro Bolgheri Allegrini
-San Polo Montalcino Allegrini
-Tenuta della Famiglia Cecchi Villa Rosa Gran Selezione Chianti Classico 2020
-Famigilia Cecchi Villa Cerna Primocolle 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva
-Cecchi Chianti Classico 2021
-Castello di Roncade Treviso Cabernet Piave Veneto 2022 $19.95 Tifa
-Poggio tonde Chianti Il Presone 2017 $26.95 Tifa
-Giuliana Vicini Pescura Trebbiano d'Abrusso 2023 $19.95 Tifa
-Jasci & Marchesani Nerube Pecorino Superiore 2024 organic
-Jasci & Marchesani Nerube Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo  2024 organic
-Jasci & Marchesani Trebbiano d'Abruzzo  2024 organic
-Tornatore Etna Rosso 2023 Sicily 
-Tornatore Etna Rosso  Pietrarizzo 2022 Sicily
-Tornatore Etna Rosso  Riserva 2020 Sicily
-Tornatore Etna Bianco 2023
-Tornatore Etna Rosato 2024 Sicily
-Torre A Cona Rosso dell' anno single vineyard
-Torre A Cona Molino degli Innocenti Chianti Colli Fiorentini Riserva
-Torre A Cona  Badia a Corte Chianti Colli Fiorentini Riserva
-Torre A Cona Terre di Cino Chianti Colli Fiorentini Riserva
-Torre A Cona Vermentino Maremma Toscana 2024
-Stephania Pepe Trebbiano d'Abruzzo Cuore di Vino 2006
-Stephania Pepe Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo Pepe Rosa 2005


***1/2 BETTER -- Three and a Half Stars (87 – 90 in Quality/Price Rating terms):
-Frescobaldi Chianti Rufina Nipozanno Riserva 2021
-Zenato Lugana Riserva 2021
-Cantina Tollo Pecorino Orapiena 2024
-Cantina Tollo  Orapiena Riserva 2024
-Montepulciano d'Abrusso Pierame 2022
-Torre A Cona Fontesanta Toscana Rosato IGT 2024
-Ciavolich IGT Terre d'Abruzzo Pecorino Aries 2024
-Ciavolich Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Divus 2020
-Cirelli Pecorino Abruzzo 2022 organic
-Valori Colline Teramane Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo Superiore organic
-Valori Abruzzo Pecorino Chiamami Quando Piove 2024 organic

The Food: there were cheese boards, meat boards, marinated roasted bell peppers, salads, breads, sun dried tomatoes, and some cooked orecchiette from Puro Artignale, and espresso coffees roasted in Rome from Alunni. 
The Downside: a smaller show than in the past
The Upside: a chance to taste some really impressive Italian wines
The Contact Person: gamberorossocanada@sogood.it
The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 88.

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