The Event: Austrian Tasting Toronto

The Date and Time: Thursday April 14, 2016  Noon - 4PM

The Event: Austrian Tasting Toronto

The Venue: St James Cathedral Centre

The Target Audience: wine trade

The Availability/Catalogue: as in previous years, most of the wines are private order, although some are available through the LCBO distribution channels.

The Quote/Background: It has been quite a few years since the last Austrian show (2012 in fact, since the opening of the Trump Hotel), so it was good to reconnect with these wines.

The Wines: I did not taste all the wines; there were 17 agencies involved plus a few tables of wineries seeking representation.

 

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

-Angerer Kurt Donatus Riesling 2015, $34.95  B & W

-Brundlmayer Klassik Zobinger Heiligenstein 1OTW Riesling 2013, $48  HHD Imports

-Loimer Reserve Langenlois Steinmassl 1OTW Riesling 2013, $62.95  Le Sommelier

-Sattlerhof Kranachberg GSTK Sauvignon Blanc 2013, $62.95 Le Sommelier

-Salomon Undhof Reserve Pfaffenberg Metternich & Salomon 1OTW Riesling 2011, $74 Lamprecht

-Zantho TBA Scheurbe 2013, $35 375mL  Noteworthy

-Nikolaihof Wachau Steinriesler Riesling 2002, $79.95  Living Vine

 

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

-R&A Pfaffl Reserve GV Hommage 2014, $75.44   AMV-Whiz Trading

-R&A Pfaffl Klassik Terrassen Sonnleiten Riesling 2015, $32.69   AMV-Whiz Trading

-Schloss Gobelsburg Klassik Domaene Gobelsburg Riesling 2015, $25.49  Artisanal

-Schloss Gobelsburg Reserve Gaisberg 1OTW Riesling 2014, $45.95  Artisanal

-Stadt Krems Klassik Steinterrassen Riesling 2015  B Cojocaru Agencies

-Stadt Krems Reserve Steiner Ried Grillenparz 1OTW Riesling 2014   B Cojocaru Agencies

-Rabl Klassik Langenlois Riesling 2015  David Thompson Vintage Trade

-Rabl Reserve Schenkenbicl Riesling 2014  David Thompson Vintage Trade

-Winzer Krems Reserve Kremser Pfaffenberg Riesling 2013, $25  Dionysus

-Szigeti Sekt Brut GV 2013, $19.95  HHD Imports

-Szigeti Sekt Blanc de Blancs Adele Brut Chardonnay NV, $24.95  HHD Imports

-Nigl Reserve Senftenberger Pellingen Privat 1OTW Riesling 2014, $78.95  Le Sommelier

-Sattlerhof Sudsteiermark Sauvignon Blanc 2015, $24.95 Le Sommelier

-Sattlerhof Gamlitzer Sauvignon Blanc 2015, $31.95 Le Sommelier

-Sattlerhof Gamlitzer Weissburgunder 2015, $25.95 Le Sommelier

-Nikolaihof Wachau Smaragd Vom Stein Riesling 2012, $69.95  Living Vine

-Nikolaihof Wachau Steiner Hund Riesling 2012, $79.95  Living Vine

 

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

-Stift Klosterneuburg Klassik GV 2015, $18.60  Rare Earth

-Stift Klosterneuburg Hengsberg GV 2015, $19.60  Rare Earth

-Brundlmayer Klassik Kamptal Terrassen GV 2015, $29.95  HHD Imports

-Brundlmayer Klassik Kamptal Terrassen Riesling 2015, $29.95  HHD Imports

-Lenz Moser Fete Rose Blauer Zweigelt 2015, $13.95  HHD Imports

-Leopold Gerichtsthal Riesling 2014, $20.50  Lamprecht

-Nikolaihof Wachau Federspiel Vom Stein Riesling 2008, $79.95  Living Vine

 

The Food: from enville.com caterers we were treated to veggie rolls, Cheese Boutique cheeses, cold cuts, breads, salads, beef open-faced sandwiches, and assorted garnishes such as ground cherries.

The Downside: there was another tasting going on at the same time.

The Upside: a chance to reconnect with Austrian wines.

The Contact Person: Birgitta.samavarchian@advantageaustria.org

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

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

SOME NEW BEVERAGES TASTED THIS MONTH OF APRIL 2016 --

1.Henry of Pelham Estate Chardonnay 2014 VQA Short Hills Bench Niagara, +268342 Vintages, $19.95: a really fresh tasting chardonnay, tempered by oak notes from barrel fermentation (90% French oak, one-quarter new) and some short aging in barrels for about 8 months. It typifies deftness at 13.5% ABV: ripeness, balance of oaking and fruit, integrated style in place, while wood integration produces creaminess in the finish. Cork closure. Quality/Price rating is 90 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

2.Henry of Pelham Estate Pinot Noir 2010 VQA Short Hills Bench Niagara, +268391 Vintages, $24.95: part of a burgundian-styled pair with the chardonnay at the April 16 release. Here is another deft wine, with cherry-berry tones, some toast, mildly opulent sty, not cool climate at all. Fermented in stainless and aged in "European" oak (30% new). Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

3.Miguel Torres Cordillera de los Andes Special Reserva Carmenere 2009 Curico Valley, +301432 Vintages, $21.95: a warmer climate wine, with 14.5% ABV reflected in the cherry-berry flavours with spices (including anise and some mint). Aged a year in French oak (30% new). Still needs time. Quality/Price rating is 87 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

4abc.I tasted some mid-weight mid-priced Italian chardonnays from north Italy, offered by Majestic Wine Cellars as part of their consignment stock, to compare and contrast in an evaluation. This is an area of intense competition, the mid-point of $15 a bottle. We make a nice chardonnay in Ontario at that price point, but so do others in the world. I started with Cantina Valpantena Veneto Chardonnay IGT 2015 ($10.60 Majestic private stock, plastic cork). It's a definite antipasto wine since it was light lemons with lively acidity, some tart apples, 12% ABV, and a longer finish than I was expecting (87 points). Quite pleasant. I moved on to Albino Armani Claps Chardonnay Friuli Grave Sequal 2014 ($14.15 Majestic private stock, composition cork) at 12.5% ABV, a more mellow, rounder wine with less acid (more sweet apples) by a longer finish in the mouth (88 points). I next tasted Albino Armani 1607 Chardonnay Trentino 2014 ($16.75 Majestic private stock, composition cork) which had sweet apples, limes and citrus, and a brightness from the stainless steel (89 points), a definite pre-prandial wine.

 

 

5.Southbrook Vineyards Seriously Cool Red 2013 VQA Ontario, $15.95 Winery: an interesting blend of pinot noir (65%), gamay (25%), zweigelt (8%) and syrah (2%) from sustainable vineyards. The label is touted to be suitable for vegans. It is all stainless steel, with twist tops, at 12.5% ABV. Expect classic Ontario red fruit (cherry-berry) plus some tart cranberry for refreshment and finish. The back label has little description; it would have been nice to know the grape names and proportions. (Union does this on their front label). Quality/Price rating is 87 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

6.Southbrook Vineyards Serious Cool Chardonnay 2015 VQA Ontario, $15.95 Winery: a closely knitted blend of chardonnay musque (65%), chardonnay (26%), and riesling (9%). Yet residual sugar is 5 g/l, less than the comparable Seriously Cool Red. The winery notes that 80% of the grapes were harvested from vineyards transitioning to organic, so the source vineyards are at least "sustainable plus".A good quaffer or social wine or even a first course white wine, displaying Ontario orchard fruit (apple, peach, et al) and some vanilla tones from subtle oaking. The back label has little description; it would have been nice to know the grape names and proportions. (Union does this on their front label). Quality/Price rating is 88 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

 

7.Calamus Estate Steely Chardonnay 2013 VQA Niagara Peninsula, +210062 Vintages, $14.95: steely indeed, fresh and crisp still at this point. Twist top, 12.5% ABV, like a softer (it has some partial malo treatment) Chablis-style at a good price. My impression is that it has improved in the bottle. First course wine, especially good with a winter salad. Loaded with orchard fruit from start to finish. Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

8.Calamus Estate Riesling 2013 VQA Vinemount Ridge, +158642 LCBO, $14.20: from 13 year old vines, typical of Ontario riesling but more appley and citric, off-dry mode (some peaches), 11.6% ABV. Try as an aperitif social wine for its fruity finish, or spicy first course such as seafood. Quality/Price rating is 90 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

9.Calamus Estate Cosmic White 2013 VQA Niagara Peninsula, +255893 LCBO, $14.95: every Ontario winery by now has a white blend and a red blend, doubling as social drinking or as a house wine for restaurants. Most of these are sold on pricepoint alone. This one has 43% riesling, 43% chardonnay, and 14% gewurztraminer (although the proportions may vary from vintage to vintage, and some wineries even add or delete grape varieties). It is a very popular drink style and as an Ontario Wine Awards judge I have found it hard to blindly pick through the wines. Invariably, I always give the highest marks to what turns out to be the most expensive wine. But that is not the point of the winemaking. In all circumstances, while the winery wants to sell its wine, it has to have an appeal to the customer at a great price for retail or licensee. Here, we have a mix of value, from three highly regarded grapes (two very aromatic and one with structural backbone). Done up in stainless, coming in at 12.1% ABV, and showing multiple orchard fruits. It is a good social wine at a fair pricepoint. Quality/Price rating is 88 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

 

10.Calamus Estate Calvin's Cabernet 2012 VQA Niagara Peninsula, $17.50 Winery Only: Ontario needs a good Cabernet for under $20, and here is one candidate. It is a definite BBQ wine, with 83% cab sauvignon and 17% cab franc done up for 26 months in French and US oak. Twist top with 13.4% ABV, winner of a Best Value award from Intervin in 2015. Typical MVC of cassis, smoke and other wood tones and vanilla. Long finish. Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

11.Calamus Estate Meritage 2012 VQA Niagara Peninsula, $32.20 Winery Only: another Bordeaux-styled red from the glorious 2012 vintage, possibly the finest for Ontario, especially for cabernet family. And here we are with 58% cabernet sauvignon, 33% merlot, and 9% cabernet franc, making it a "Meritage" wine since it uses at least three of the Bordeaux varieties. Stored in French oak for 21 months, and 13.2% ABV. Wood tones are getting more pronounced (I tasted this wine over several days) so that means a certain leafiness augmented by light vanilla and cedar from the oak. Black cherry-berry fruit dominates, cassis, along with merlot plumminess. Long, long meaty finish from the integration and aging so far. With a twist top, the wine could age differently than Bordeaux. One to check in with later....save me a bottle. Quality/Price rating is 91 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

12.Cloudline Pinot Gris 2014 Willamette Valley Oregon, +159988, $24.95 Vintages: I've always preferred pinot gris over pinot grigio, and this is a classic gris from Domaine Drouhin Oregon. Its long dry finish is preceded by light floral and good aromatics of citric fruit, posed with a concentrated body of flavours with texture. Definite first course wine. One for the advanced pinot gris and grigio lover. 13.9% ABV with twist top. Quality/Price rating is 88 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

 

 

13. Fratelli Branca CARPANO ANTICA FORMULA VERMOUTH, $47.95 litre; $18.95 for 375 mL

Ontario by Majestic Wine Cellars: a revelation in the vermouth world, created in 1786. This is red vermouth, numbered in hand-blown glasses, emphasizing vanilla, dried fruit, dates and orange zest. Bitter-sweet, with some gentian root notes. 16.5% ABV, long persistent finish, best on the rocks as an aperitif or after a meal straight up. Many Toronto bars use it in their cocktails, such as Negroni or Manhattan. Quality/Price rating is 93 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

14.Morgan Bay Cellars Chardonnay 2013 California, $14.15 Majestic private stock, which had well-rounded texture meant to appeal to the US palate. There were lemons and green apples, but also the softness and taste of a creamy caramel. 13.5% ABV. The label says California (which to many means "off-dry" or a sweetness reminiscent of at least some sugar), but there is also enough finishing acid for a first course. Otherwise, sip away; I was expecting more food bite and stainless steel at this price level.

Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

15.Rutherford Ranch Lander-Jenkins Chardonnay California 2013, +162651 Vintages, $19.95: a typical mid-priced California chardonnay, just under $20 but sure to go up with the exchange rate (like all the other $19.95 American wines) to maintain that quality. Expect caramel and cream and citric tones on the finish, as well as a concentrated body. 13% ABV, well-made. Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

16.Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay 2014 Napa, (2013 was +136382, $22.95 Vintages): a soft wine full of orchard fruit, creamy, bright, some vanilla but modest oak. Aperitif or with seafood. 13.5% ABV. Quality/Price rating is 89 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

16.Puklus Pinceszet Sweet Tokaji Szamorodni 2009, +179374 Vintages, $18.95 for 500 mL:

a second-tier Tokay wine, usually medium-sweet and done naturally with no added puttonyos. Botrytised grapes would vary from vintage to vintage and from producer to producer. The last Puklus we had was 2006 vintage; this current version (2009) seems to also offer bitterish dried apricot flavours and oxidative notes. A good dessert wine, certainly affordable, and perhaps best with egg dishes such as custards. 13.5%

ABV. 100% Furmint. Quality/Price rating is 90 points by Dean Tudor of Gothic Epicures.

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: A structured tasting with Suzanne Groth, one of the owners of Groth Vineyards & Winery “rooted in Oakville” Napa.

The Date and Time: Tuesday April 26, 2016 3PM to 4:30PM  

The Event: A structured tasting with Suzanne Groth, one of the owners of Groth Vineyards & Winery "rooted in Oakville" Napa.

The Venue: George Brown College Wine Lab at Chefs House

The Target Audience: wine writers and sommeliers.

The Availability/Catalogue: all the wines were available for ordering except the 1997.

The Quote/Background: In this sitdown tasting, Ms. Groth talked about her life in Napa and the terroir surrounding the Oakville area for her wines (137 net vineyard acres, planted in 1981/82. They produce cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc wines. More details are at www.grothwines.com.

The Wines: Suzanne Groth spoke about the eight wines at the tasting.

 

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

-Groth Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 Oakville Napa, N/A

-Groth Chardonnay 2014 Hillview Vineyard Napa, $56.95 (BF sur lie 8 months)

-Groth Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Oakville Napa, $112.95 (12% merlot, 65% new Fr oak, 22 months)

-Groth Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Reserve Oakville Napa, $196.95 (10% merlot, 100% new Fr oak, 22 months)

-Six pack with 2 bottles each at $174.95 each bottle (6 x $174.95) - Groth Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Oakville Napa;  -Groth Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Oakville Napa; -Groth Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Oakville Napa.

 

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

-Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Napa, $41.95 (9% semillon, 80% of total wine barrel fermented)

 

The Food: bread sticks and water.

The Downside: it was a short tasting

The Upside: a chance to engage with Suzanne Groth

The Contact Person: rob@thevineagency.ca

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP 20/20 WINES: 20 under $20 and 20 over $20 for April 30, 2016.

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP 20/20 WINES: 20 under $20 and 20 over $20 for April 30, 2016.

=======================================================================

By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. My Internet compendium "Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net", a guide to thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, has been at www.deantudor.com since 1994.

 

Hey – it's the Blue Moon release – three Vintages releases in April!  The next Blue Moon release will be in October...

 

The BAD NEWS: Five wines presented to the wine media were corked!!! And there were  not that many wines with a cork  closure since just about everything is screwcap or twist top these days. FIVE wines – a record!! (I've been keeping tabs since 1987).  Only the astute will go down to the Product Consultants tasting on Tuesdays to catch up with the "non-corked" wines.

 

So many people have asked me for wine recommendations, with numbers only. The readers' most common response is that while they like what I say, they only relate to the score. The score is a combination of MVC (Modal Varietal Character, where e.g. a Southern Rhone tastes like a Southern Rhone and not like a Northern Rhone) and Quality/Price Ratio. Let's take it for granted that, e.g., a Riesling tastes like a Riesling, and the wine has some value in the marketplace either above or below its selling price. This way too I can also cover more wines.

 

This restructured wine newsletter for the Ontario market, with wines available through the LCBO and Vintages on a bi-weekly basis can always be found at http://www.gothicepicures.blogspot.ca/ or at www.deantudor.com

 

20 under $20

=========

W- Columbia Crest Grand Estates Chardonnay 2013 Columbia Valley, +366542, $17.95,        MVC/QPR:  91.

R-Hogue Genesis Meritage 2012 Columbia Valley, +443135, $18.95, 13.5% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 90.

W-Puklus Pinceszet Szamorodni Sweet Tokaji 2009 Hungary, 500 mL, +179374, $18.95,  MVC/QPR: 89.

W-Featherstone Black Sheep Riesling 2015 VQA Niagara Peninsula, +80234, $16.95, 9.5% ABV,

MVC/QPR: 89.

W-Marisco Vineyards The King's Favour Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Waihopai Marlborough, +374165, $19.95, 12.5% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 90.

R-Chateau Les Tourelles 2011 Bordeaux, +426247, $16.95, 13% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Tommasi Poggio Al Tufo Rompicollo 2012 IGT Maremma Toscana, +13755, $17.95, 13% ABV,

MVC/QPR: 90.

R-Pata Negra Reserva 2010 Rioja, +443804, $17, 14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90.

W-Joel Gott Riesling 2012 Columbia Valley, +443143, $19.95, MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Seven Falls Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Wahluke Slope Columbia Valley, +360222, $19.95, 14.5% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Goose Ridge Estate Vineyards Stonecap Syrah 2013 Columbia Valley, +443150, $16.95, 13.9% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

W-Yalumba Organic Viognier 2015 South Australia, +288217, $17.95, 14.5% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Wildass Red 2012 VQA NOTL, +86363, $19.95, 13.1% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

W-Souverain Chardonnay 2013 North Coast, +158600, $19.95, 13.5% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Ryder Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Central Coast [Cal.], +450528, $19.95, 13.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89.

W-Montes Outer Limits Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Zapallar Aconcagua Valley, +389643, $19.95, 13# ABV, MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Juan Gil 4 Meses Monastrell 2014 Jumilla, +13656, $16.95, 14.5% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Errazuriz Aconcagua Alto Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, +203364, $19.95, 14% ABV,

MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Lamadrid Single Vineyard Reserva Malbec 2012 Agrelo Mendoza, +234492, $17, 14.5% ABV,

MVC/QPR: 88.

Rose – Gassier Sables d'Azur Rose 2015 Cotes de Provence, +33621, $15.95,  MVC/QPR: 88.

 

20 over $20

=========

W-Nk'mip Qwam Qwmt Chardonnay 2013 BC VQA Okanagan, 13.5 ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

W-Cloudline Pinot Gris 2014 Willamette Valley, +159988, $24.95,  MVC/QPR: 88.

R-Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Clare Valley/Coonawara, +142398, $24.95, 14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Chateau Rombeau Cuvee Elise 2011 Vieilles Vignes Cotes du Roussillon-Villages, +439695, $22.95, 14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Lornano Chianti Classico Riserva 2009, +208447, $26.95, 14% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Castelli del Grevepesa Panzano Gran Selezione Chianti Classico 2011, +972695, $37.95, 14% ABV,

MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Rendola Brunello de Montalcino 2004, +181412, $39.95, 14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 90.

W-Quinta de Couselo O Rosal 2014 Rias Baixas, +440362, $23.95, 13% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

W-Norman Hardie Unfiltered Chardonnay 2014 VQA Niagara Peninsula, +184432, $39, 12.2% ABV,

MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Sugar Loaf Pinot Noir 2014 Marlborough, +447359, $24.95, 13.5% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Grillesino Ceccante Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Maremma Toscana, +440768, $24.95, 13.5% ABV,

MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Italo Cescon Pinot Noir 2014 Veneto, +439737, $21.95, 12% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 88.

R-Chateau de Gaudou Renaissance Cahors 2012 Cuvee Boisee, +364786, $25.95, 14% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88.

R-Brumont Chateau Bouscasse Vieilles Vignes Madiran 2006, +132415, $38.95, 14.5% ABV, MVC/QPR: 88.

R-Domaine Michel Caillot Beaune Les Avaux 1er Cru 2012, +446344, $49.95, 13% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 88.

R-Chateau Cap Leon Veyrin 2010 Listrac-Medoc, +351957, $31.95, 14% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 88.

W-Fielding Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2014 VQA Beamsville Bench, +355842, $21.95,  MVC/QPR:88.

R-Coyote's Run Black Paw Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013 VQA Four Mile Creek, +116442, $32.95, 12.5% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 88.

W-Meiomi Chardonnay 2014 Monterey/Sonoma/Santa Barbara, +410712, $26.95,  MVC/QPR: 88.

W-Vignerons de Buxy Les Chaniots Montagny 1er Cru 2013, +159020, $24.95, 13% ABV,  MVC/QPR: 88.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Spring Portfolio tasting of 30.50 Imports April 19

The Date and Time: Tuesday April 19, 2016  Noon – 2 PM

The Event: Spring Portfolio tasting of 30.50 Imports

The Venue: Frank (AGO)

The Target Audience: wine media, sommeliers, consumers (later)

The Availability/Catalogue: most items were available by consignment, although some were still coming into the country and others were private stock.

The Quote/Background: It is quite a diversified catalogue, with most countries repped, lacking Latin America and Australia. The sherries and madeiras were phenomenal: Bodegas Tradicion Fino VOS ($55), 20 Year Old Pedro Ximenez ($110), 30 Year Old Amontillado ($105) and Belem's 10 Year Old Sercial ($55.95).

The Wines: I did not try all the wines. Prices are licensee.

 

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

-Chiusa Grande Pecorino Terre Casale Abruzzo, $13.95

-Azienda Agricola 499 Moscato d'Asti 2015 Piedmont, $19.95

-Musella Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva 2009 Veneto, 375 mL $40.95  biodynamic

-Finca La Emperatriz Reserva 2010 Rioja, $31.95

-Cellier Cesca Vicent Red 2013 Priorat, $21.95

-Emilio Valerio Amburza 2011 Navarra, $24.95

-Chateau Musar Red 2004 Bekaa Valley, $64.95

-Pearl Morissette Chardonnay Cuvee Dix-Neuvieme 2013 Niagara, $32.08

-Pearl Morissette Chardonnay Cuvee Metis 2013 Niagara, $25.33

-Huff Estates Chardonnay South Bay 2014 PEC, $23.90

-Huff Estates Cuvee Janine Rose 2013 MC PEC, $23.90

-Huff Estates Cuvee Peter F. Huff 2011 MC PEC, $29.50

 

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

-Huff Estates Pinot Gris 2015 PEC, $15.25

-Huff Estates Cabernet Franc Rose 2015 PEC, $14.55

-Chateau Musar Hachar Pere et Fils Red 2011 Bekaa Valley, $29.95

-Castello di Verduno Barbaresco Faset 2009 Piedmont, $59.95

-Castello di Verduno Barolo Massara 2009 Piedmont, $69.95

-Azienda Agricola 499 Langhe Freisa Selection Coste dei Fre 2012 Piedmont, $32.95

-Castello La Leccia Chianti Classico Bruciagna Gran Selezione Tuscany, $49.95

-Il Paradiso di Frassina Gea Rosso di Montalcino 2012 Tuscany, $34.95

-Il Paradiso di Frassina Brunello di Montalcino 2010 Tuscany, $69.95

-Daniele Pintus Vermentino 2014 Sardinia, $21.95   biodynamic

-ATTIS Bodegas Y Vinedos Albarino Xion 2015 Rias Baixas, $19.95

-ATTIS Bodegas Y Vinedos Albarino Laranxa 2014 Rias Baixas, $27.50

-Finca La Emperatriz Viura 2015 Rioja, $13.95

-Finca La Emperatriz Crianza 2012 Rioja, $19.95

-Bodegas Requiem Tinto 2012 Ribera del Duero, $34.95

-Quinta de la Quietud Corral de Campanas 2014 Toro, $20.95

-Quinta de la Quietud Quinta Quietud 2012 Toro, $32.95

-Valle de Junco Lapa dos Gaivoes Escolha 2011 Alenejo, $32.95

-Douro Prime Inquieto Reserva 2010 Douro, $34.95

-Porta da Teira Ninfa Tinto 2012 Tejo, $20.95

-Prieler Pinot Blanc Leithaberg 2015 Burgenland, $49.95

-Prieler Pinot Blanc Haidsatz 2015 Burgenland, $64.95

 

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

-Emilio Valerio San Martin 2012 Navarra, $59.95

-Bodegas Medrano Irazu Tempranillo Joven Rioja, 2014 $13.95

-Bodegas Briego Gran Reserva 2005 Ribera del Duero, $55.95

-Chateau Musar Jeune Rose 2014 Bekaa Valley, $23.50

-Stephen Vincent Chardonnay 2013 Sonoma, $20.95

-Azienda Agricola 499 Langhe Freisa 2012 Piedmont, $24.95

-Chiusa Grande Trebbiano d'Abruzzo Terre Casale Abruzzo, $13.95

-Peter Zemmer Chardonnay 2014 Alto Adige, $17.95

-Peter Zemmer Muller Thurgau 2015 Alto Adige, $19.95

-Castello di Verduno Bellis Perennis Bianco 2014 Piedmont, $22.95

-Castello di Verduno Basadone 2014 Piedmont, $28.95

-Morgassi Superiore Gavi di Gavi Tuffo 2014 Piedmont

-Fattoria di San Quintino Sangiovese La Fagiana 2013 Tuscany, $27.95

-Pearl Morissette Riesling Redfoot 2014 Niagara, $23.64

 

The Food: terrines, charcuterie platters, cheeses, crostini (grilled sliced bread).

The Contact Person: info@3050imports.com

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Mellecey Wine Group Rose Tasting

The Date and Time: Wednesday April 20, 2016   3PM to 4PM

The Event: Mellecey Wine Group Rose Tasting

The Venue: Fine Wine Reserve

The Target Audience: wine trade and consumers.

The Availability/Catalogue: everything tasted was available, or will be.

The Wines: Two wines were not available for tasting (SI IGP Costa Toscano Rosato Syrah 2015, $55.96, and Txakoli Rosado, $22.95).

 

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

Domaine Pre Semele Sancerre Rosé 2015, $36.95

Champagne Legras et Haas Rosé NV $74.95

 

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

Lucien Jacob Bourgogne Rosé 2014, $24.95

Domaine La Ligiere Sud Absolu Rosé 2014, $15.95

Domaine Deliance Cremant Ruban Rosé NV $32.95

 

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

Valenciso Rosado Rioja 2014, $35.95

Domaine Tix AOC Cotes du Ventoux Rosé 2015, $23.95

 

The Food: charcuterie, cheese, wafers.

The Contact Person: Cyndi Grossman cyndi@melleceywinegroup.com

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

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Third annual ROSE wine tasting by Wine Writers' Circle of Canada

The Date and Time: Sunday April 17, 2016  11AM to 4PM

The Event: Third annual ROSE wine tasting by Wine Writers' Circle of Canada.

The Venue: Wine Writers' Circle of Canada clubhouse

The Target Audience: WWCC writers

The Availability/Catalogue: wines were generally available either at the relevant Ontario winery or LCBO distribution channels (especially the seasonal release program for rose). Some were private order only.

The Quote/Background: 11 writers had sent in their RSVPs. This was not a competition nor a judging – it was exposure to most of the Roses available in the marketplace in Ontario at this time of year (graduation, Mothers' Day, summer, etc.)

The Wines:  There were some 54 wines sampled, based on an all-call from Drinks Ontario and WMAO. We were disappointed that there were few wines from the rest of Ontario.

 

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

-Taittinger    Brut Prestige Rose    NV    $73.25    993113    France 12.50%

-Cono Sur    Sparkling Pinot Noir Rose    NV    $13.95    365205    Chile  13%

-Henry of Pelham    Cuvee Catharine Rose Brut    NV    $29.95 217505 Niagara 12%

-Louis Bernard    Tavel    2015    $21.95    450833    France    Rhone Valley 13.5%

-Chateau des Bertrands    Rose Cotes de Provence AOP    2015     $24.95     451229 13.5%

-Les Cercle des Vignerons de Provence - Estandon Vignerons    Terres de Saint Louis Rose AOC Coteaux Varois en Provence    2015    $11.95 Cad    234575 Provence     12.5%

-Malivoire Wine Co. Rosé Moira 2015    24.95     Beamsville Bench    Pinot Noir    13%       

-Tawse Winery    Sketches of Niagara Rose    2015    $16.95     172643 12.5%

-Peninsula Ridge    Cabernet Rose    2015    13.75    177840 Vintages    Beal Vyd

-Peri Bigogno    Peri Talento Rose    2011    $50.00        Italy    Castenedolo    Pinot Nero, Chardonnay    12.5        Private Order    Now & June    Apparition Wines & Spirits www.apparitionwines.com                       

 

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

-Featherstone Winery Cuveé Joy Sparkling Rosé 2014 $29.95  450700    20 Mile Bench 12.5%

-Cattin Freres Crémant d'Alsace Rosé    N/V     $18.95     264572    12.0%       

-Rotari Brut Rose    N/V $17.95     362566 DOC Trento    75% Pinot Noir 25% Chardonnay    12.5%   

-Vitcoltori Acquesi    Brachetto D'Acqui    na    12.95    375667    Piedmont 6.5%

-Chateau Gassier    Pas du Moines    2015    21.95    450874    France    Provence 13%

-Ogier    Ventoux Rose    2015    13.95    134916    France    Rhone    13.5%   

-Bacalhoa     JP Azeitao Rosé Syrah     N/A    $8.75     404566 Setubal Peninsula 12%

-Cono Sur    Bicicleta Pinot Noir Rose    2015    $9.95    318014    Chile    San Antonio 13% -Nugan Estate    Third Generation Shiraz Rosé    2015    $10.95     445841    SEA 13% -Jacob's Creek    Moscato Rose    2015    11.9    367276    SEA 7.50%               

-Karlo Estates Inc.    Maddison    2014    $18.00     N/A    Canada    Niagara 11.5%

-Malivoire Wine Co.    Vivant Rosé    2015    21.95     Beamsville Bench    Pinot Noir    12.5   

-Speck Brothers    Pink House Wine Co.     2015    $12.95 324558 Niagara    Chardonnay & Merlot    12.00%               

-Henry of Pelham    Classic Rose    2015    $14.95    613471 Niagara    Pinot Noir & Cab Sauv    11.50%               

-Redstone Winery    Rose    2015    $15.95  Niagara Cab Franc(87%), Pinot Gris (9%) 12.00%

-Featherstone Winery    Rose    2015    $15.95     117861    Canada    Niagara 13.1%

-Gran Feudo    Rosado    2015                Navarra           

-Creekside    Cabernet Rose    2015                                       

-The Foreign Affair Winery    Amarosé    2015    18.95    388702  Niagara Peninsula 12.4%

-Benazzoli Fulvio    Benazzoli Chiaretto Spumante    2014    $27.00        Italy    Bardolino

Corvina, Rondinella    11.5    Private Order    Now & June    Apparition Wines & Spirits                               

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

-Ruffino    Sparkling Rose    NV    $15.95 Friuli Venezia Giulia, Glera, Pinot Noir    11%

-Jacob's Creek    Sparkling Moscato Rose    N/A    13.95    445825 SEA    Moscato    8.40%   

-Gerard Bertrand    Gris Blanc    2015    $16.95    409870 Pays D'Oc    Grenache Gris & Grenache Noir 12.50%               

-Gerard Bertrand    Cote de Roses    2015    $18.95    373985 Languedoc    12.50%

-Chateau de Berne    Terres de Berne Rose    2015    17.95    515894 Provence        12.5%

-Chateau Gassier    Sables d'Azur    2014    15.95    33621    Provence Cinsault, Grenache 13%

-Marqués de Cáceres Rosé    2015     $13.95     622142 Rioja 96% Tempranillo 4%Garnacha -Simi    Dry Rose 2014 $17.95 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec,Syrah 13.5%

-First Cape Winery    Cape Bay Shiraz Rose # 445866    2015    $10.95     512626 12.5%

-Campo Viejo    Tempranillo Rose    2015    11.95    175620    Spain    Rioja    Tempranillo    14%

-PIERA MARTELLOZZO S.P.A.    Giovello Rose    2015    11.95    445627     Friuli    12

-Bodegas Piqueras    Castillo de Almansa Rosado 2015 $11.95 445635 Almansa    Syrah    13.0%   

-Saint Clair Family Estate Pinot Gris Rosé 2014    $16.95 451740 Marlborough 13%       

-Kim Crawford Pansy Rose 2015    $17.95 650325 New Zealand Huapai    Merlot, Syrah    13%

-Nugan Estate     Uprising  Shiraz Rosé    2015    $13.95     445858 SEA    13%       

-Malivoire Wine Co.    Ladybug Rosé    2015    15.95    559088 Cab Franc, Pinot Noir, Gamay, Cab Sauvignon    12.5%               

-Speck Brothers Sibling Rivalry Pink 2015 $13.95 171033 Niagara Cab Sauv&Franc 12%   

-Southbrook    Cabernet Rose    2015    Niagara Org & Biodynamic               

-Southbrook Triomphe    Cabernet Franc Rose    2015    Organic                   

-Calamus    Rose    2011    $10.75                                   

-Fielding    Rose    2015                                       

-Andrew Peller Trius Rose 2015 $15.75 341743 Niagara Gamay Noir and Syrah    12%   

-Benazzoli Fulvio    Benazzoli Chiaretto    2014    $20.00        Italy    Bardolino    Corvina, Rondinella    12.0    Private Order June Apparition Wines & Spirits   

-Rapscallion Wine Co.    Frisky Beaver Blushing Beaver    2013    $14.95 Ontario - Port Dover    Cabernet, Chambourcin, Viognier, Baco, Riesling    12.9%   

 

The Food: bread, water, olives, bits and bites.

The Contact Person:  deantudor@deantudor.com

The Event's Marketing Effectiveness and Execution (numerical grade): 94.

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: California Wine Fair – 2016 Tour in Toronto

The Date and Time: Monday April 11, 2016  1PM to 5PM

The Event: California Wine Fair – 2016 Tour in Toronto

The Venue: Fairmont Royal York

The Target Audience: wine trade

The Availability/Catalogue: wines were variable, but all would be available through LCBO, consignment or private order.

The Quote/Background: The press got a break with its media room – about 60 wines were available for sampling, including my fave red of the event – Heitz Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Martha's Vineyard. Other wines I sampled were in the main room, beginning at 2:30 before the crowd was large. Good thing too....

The Wines: I concentrated on Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, two of California's top varietals. But I did wander off course...

 

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

-Bogle Vineyards Phantom 2012 California   Abcon

-Ca'Momi Wines Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Napa   Kylix

-Cline Cellars Big Break Zinfandel 2012 Contra Costa County  Vinexx

-Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Oakville Napa    Noble Estates

-Grigich Hills Estate Chardonnay 2012 Napa   Rogers

-Heitz Cabernet Sauvignon Martha's Vineyard 2005 Napa    Lifford

-Peju Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Napa, $84.95 consignment Le Sommelier

-Miner Family Winery Wild Yeast Chardonnay 2012 Napa  Profile

-Paul Hobbs Chardonnay 2013 Sonoma County RRV    Authentic

-Schramsberg Vineyards Blanc de Noirs 2012 North Coast    The Vine Agency

-Trinchero Family Estates Joel Gott Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 California   P Dandurand

-Signorello Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Padrone 2012 Napa   Profile Wine Group

-Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Alexander Valley    Halpern

-Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon SLV 2013 Napa    P Dandurand

 

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

-Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay 2014 Livermore Valley    Churchill Cellars

-White Hall Lane Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Napa   The Vine Agency

-Clos du Bois Calcaire Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2013

-Davis Bynum Russian River Valley Jane's Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014 Mark Anthony

-Rodney Strong Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2013 Mark Anthony

-Scott Family Estate Arroyo Seco Chardonnay Dijon Clone 2013  Majestic

-Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay 2014 Napa  Majestic

-Girasole Vineyards Chardonnay 2014 Mendocino   Hobbs & Co

-District 7 Chardonnay 2013 Monterey  Case for Wine

-Mumm Napa Brut Prestige Chardonnay/Pinot Noir Carneros    Corby

-Dierberg Chardonnay 2013 Santa Maria Valley   Kylix

-Ca'Momi Wines Chardonnay 2014 Napa   Kylix

-Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Chardonnay KARIA 2014 Napa,  P Dandurand

-Miner Family Winery Chardonnay 2013 Napa  Profile

-Grgich Hills Estate Merlot 2012 Napa     Rogers & Co

-Grgich Hills Estate Zinfandel 2012 Napa     Rogers & Co

-Davis Bynum River West Chardonnay 2013 Russian River Valley    Mark Anthony

-Far Niente Chardonnay 2014 Napa     Noble

-Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve 2012 Napa  Treasury Wine Estates

-Stag's Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Napa  Treasury Wine Estates

-Waterstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Napa    Small Winemakers Collection

-Artesa Chardonnay 2014 Carneros   A Peller

-Raymond Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 North Coast    Charton-Hobbs

-DAOU Mayote 2013  Paso Robles   The Vine Agency

-Black Stallion Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Napa   Select Wines

-Esser Chardonnay 2014 Monterey  Dionysus

-Sebastiani Chardonnay 2013 Sonoma County   Select

-Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut NV  Airen

-Hess Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Mt Veeder  Lifford

-Flowers Chardonnay 2014 Sonoma Coast   Rogers

-Huneeus Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2013  Napa   Rogers

-Long Meadow Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Napa  Profile Wine Group

-Pedroncelli Zinfandel Mother Clone 2013 Dry Creek Valley  Kylix

-Rutherford Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Napa Majestic

-Schramsberg J Davies Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Napa  The Vine Agency

-Twomey Cellars Merlot 2011 Napa  Halpern

-Silverado Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Stags Leap District    Kylix

 

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

-Chateau St. Jean Chardonnay Robert Young 2012 Alexander Valley Treasury Wine Estates

-Hahn Family Chardonnay 2014 Santa Lucia Highlands   A Peller

-Duckhorn Chardonnay 2013 Napa     Rogers & Co

-Clos du Bois North Coast Chardonnay 2014

-Lander-Jenkins Chardonnay 2013 California   Majestic

-Eos Estate Chardonnay Central Coast 2011, 23.95 Lic  Le Sommelier

-Chloe Chardonnay 2013 Sonoma   Corby

-DeLoach Vineyards Chardonnay 2014 Russian River Valley   Lifford

-Signorello Hope's Cuvee Estate Chardonnay 2014 Napa    Profile

-Benovia Chardonnay 2013 Fort Ross-Seaview Sonoma Coast   Univins

-Buena Vista Winery Chardonnay 2014 Carneros    Univins

-Austerity Chardonnay 2014 Arroyo Seco    Airen

 

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

The Downside: it is always crowded after 3PM, so I was grateful for the media room which allowed me to get ahead.

The Upside: the media room.

The Contact Person: paula@praxispr.ca

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

The Event: Dinner with California wines from Gnarly Head, Aquinas, Pepperwood Grove, and Sebastiani, all from the Select Wines agency.

The Date and Time: Tuesday April 12, 2016, 6:30 - 9PM

The Event: Dinner with California wines from Gnarly Head, Aquinas, Pepperwood Grove, and Sebastiani, all from the Select Wines agency.

The Venue: Carbon Bar

The Target Audience: wine writers

The Availability/Catalogue: all wines are in the system

The Quote/Background: Reps from each of the wineries spoke on the tasting nuances with each dish, and there was spirited discussion.

The Wines:

 

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

-Sebastiani Chardonnay Sonoma County 2013, $19.80 LCBO

-Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County 2013, $37.95  Private Order

 

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

-Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel Lodi 2013, $17.95 Vintages

 

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

-Pepperwood Grove Old Vine Zinfandel California 2013, $13.95  LCBO

-Aquinas Pinot Noir North Coast 2013, $18.95  LCBO

-Gnarly Head Cabernet Sauvignon California 2013, $14.95 LCBO

 

The Food: we had six plates, six wines, plus a dessert of rhubarb sorbet. The first plate was hamachi ceviche, very appropriate with the Sebastiani Chardonnay. Their Cab was remarkable, and still had many years to go, but surprised me with the goat cheese and beet flavours. The Pepperwood was too entry-level for the awesome duck taco, the Pinot Noir was too Californian (off-dry) for the octopus. The Gnarly Heads were excellent with the aged hanger steak and the ribs-brisket-fried chicken!!

The Downside: I was still recovering my palate from the California show of Monday.

The Upside: great chard, cabs and zinfs.

The Contact Person: delucia@selectwines.ca

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

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP 20/20 WINES: 20 under $20 and 20 over $20 for April 16, 2016.

WORLD WINE WATCH TOP 20/20 WINES: 20 under $20 and 20 over $20 for April 16, 2016.

=======================================================================

By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. My Internet compendium "Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net", a guide to thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, has been at www.deantudor.com since 1994. This wine newsletter for the Ontario market, with wines available through the LCBO and Vintages on a bi-weekly basis, can always be found at http://www.gothicepicures.blogspot.ca/ or at www.deantudor.com

 

So many people have asked me for wine recommendations, with numbers only. The readers' most common response is that while they like what I say, they only relate to the score. The score is a combination of MVC (Modal Varietal Character, where e.g. a Southern Rhone tastes like a Southern Rhone and not like a Northern Rhone) and Quality/Price Ratio. Let's take it for granted that, e.g., a Riesling tastes like a Riesling, and the wine has some value in the marketplace either above or below its selling price. This way too I can also cover more wines.

 

 

20 under $20

=========

W-Henry of Pelham Estate Chardonnay 2014 VQA Short Hills Bench Niagara, +268342, $19.95. 13.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 90

R-Ironstone Petite Sirah 2014 Lodi, +361915, $17.95. 14.5% ABV.  MVC/QPR: 88.

W-Chateau des Charmes Old Vines Riesling 2013 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, +277228, $16.95. 12% ABV. MVC/QPR: 91.

W-Flat Rock Chardonnay 2013 VQA Twenty Mile Bench, +286278, $18.95. 13% ABV. MVC/QPR: 91

R-Alamos Syrah 2014 Mendoza, +183848, $14.95. 13.5% ABV.  MVC/QPR: 88.

R-Vinalba Reserva Malbec/Touriga Nacional 2013 Uco Valley Mendoza, +442459, $18.95. 14.5% ABV.  MVC/QPR: 89.

R-L F Edwards Claro Magnolio Reserve Malbec 2014 Colchagua, +365932, $13.95. 14% ABV MVC/QPR: 88.

W-Highfield Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Marlborough NZ, +444380, $19.95. 13% ABV.  MVC/QPR: 90.

W-Chateau Sainte-Marie Vieilles Vignes Entre-Deux-Mers 2014, +447565, $14.95. 12.5%. ABV

MVC/QPR: 90.

W-Cuvee Joseph Talmard Macon Chardonnay 2014, +392712, $16.95. 13% ABV  MVC/QPR: 89

W-J Perrier & Fils Apremont Cuvee Gastronomie Savoie 2014, +320093, $18.95. 11.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 88.

R-Chateau La Rose Vieilles Vignes 2010 Cotes de Bordeaux – Castillon, +444349, $16.95. 13% ABV.

MVC/QPR: 90

R-Couly-Dutheil Les Gravieres d'Amador Abbe de Turpenay Chinon 2014, +446328, $19.95. MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Carpineto Chianti Classico 2013, +356048, $19.95. 13% ABV. MVC/QPR: 91.

R-Rede Reserva 2010 Douro, +431262, $14.95. 13.5% ABV.  MVC/QPR: 88.

R-CUNE Vina Real Crianza 2012 Rioja, +657411, $18.95. 13.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Bodega del Abad Gotin del Risc Mencia 2010 Bierzo, +391581, $15.95. 14% ABV.  MVC/QPR: 90.

W-Concha y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Chardonnay 2013 Limari, +342857, $19.95. 13.5% ABV.

MVC/QPR: 88.

R-William Fevre Chile Espino Gran Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Maipo Valley, +444430, $19.95. 13.8%  ABV, MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Chateau Nozieres Cuvee Ambroise de L'Her Malbec Cahors 2012, +276055, $17.95. 13.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

 

 

20 over $20

=========

R-Edmeades Zinfandel 2013 Mendocino County, +105924, $23.95. 15% ABV. MVC/QPR: 88.

W-J.Lohr October Night Chardonnay 2014 Arroyo Seco Monterey, +225375, $34.95.  MVC/QPR: 88

R-Henry of Pelham Estate Pinot Noir 2010 VQA Short Hills Bench Niagara, +268391 $24.95. 13.5%  ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Kacaba Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 VQA Niagara Escarpment, +326496, $24.95. 13.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 90.

R-Culmina R&D Red Blend 2014 BC VQA Golden Mile Bench Okanagan, +445494, $25.95. 14% ABV  MVC/QPR: 88.

R-Barossa Valley Estate Ebenezer Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 Barossa Valley, +39537, $39.95. 14.5% MVC/QPR: 90.

R-Dandelion Vineyards Lionheart of the Barossa Shiraz 2014 Barossa, +167189, $21.95. 14.5% ABV.

MVC/QPR:  90.

R-Shingleback Davey Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 McLaren Vale, +444455, $23.95. 14.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 90.

R-Miguel Torres Cordillera de los Andes Special Reserva Carmenere 2009 Curico Valley, +301432, $21.95. 14.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 87.

W-Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay 2014 Margaret River, +416511, $24.95. 12.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Pirathon by Kalleske Shiraz 2012 Barossa Valley, +130278, $29.95. 14.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 88.

W-Two Rivers Convergence Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Marlborough, +277707, $23.95.  13% ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

W-F.Tinel-Blondelet L'Arret Buffatte Pouilly-Fume 2014, +169730, $24.95.  MVC/QPR: 90.

R-Chateau Clarke 2009 Listrac Medoc, +503904, $42.95. 14% ABV. MVC/QPR: 91.

W-Darting Durkheimer Nonnengarten Gewurztraminer Kabinett 2013 Pfalz, +944181, $20.95. 10% ABV. MVC/QPR: 92.

R-Patrizi Barolo 2011, +653527, $34.95. 14% ABV. MVC/QPR: 92.

R-Antinori Guado Al Tasso Il Bruciato 2013 Bolgheri, +674135, $25.95. 14% ABV.  MVC/QPR: 90.

R-Cune Reserva 2011 Rioja, +417659, $24.95. 13.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

R-La Lecciaia Brunello di Montalcino 2010, +121905, $57.95. 14.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

R-San Felice Il Grigio Gran Selezione Chianti Classico 2011, +403477, $46.95. 14.5% ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

R-Domaine de Viaud 2004 Lalande-de-Pomerol, +282475, $31.95. 13% ABV. MVC/QPR: 89.

 

Chimo! www.deantudor.com

* THE REISSUES, THE REPRINTS, AND THE NEWER EDITIONS...

 

...all reflect a boom in the cookbook publishing business. A paperback reprint will lower the cost to the purchaser, and also give a publisher a chance to correct egregious errors or add a postscript. Some will reissue a book in paper covers with a new layout or photos. Others will rearrange existing material to present it as more informative text while keeping the focus tight. Some magazines will reissue popular or classic recipes in an "easy" format. Here are some recent "re-editions"...

 

 

 

21.FROM INDIA (Thunder Bay Press, 2013, 2015, 232 pages, ISBN 978-1-62686-523-5, $29.95 US,  blue padded fabric bound) is by Kumar and Suba Mahadevan, both from India and relocated to Australia. In 1987 Kumar opened Abhi's in Sydney Australia. The book was originally published in 2013 by Murdoch Books in Australia; this is the North American release. It opens with a chapter ("Vannakkam") that's a Tamil saying meaning "welcome"; the Madadevans are from that state. The 100 recipes are complemented by a memoir tale of his family's journey from India to Australia. The book is a blend of contemporary food and classic cooking, covering rava methi machi (seafood), gutti venkai koora (vegetarian), and many traditional curries (akoori scrambled eggs, madras prawn vendaki, lamb kozhamdu curry), organized in chapters according to the tastes: salt, bitter, sour, spice, and sweet. Their journey, with roots in Ayurvedic principles, takes the reader from the regional fare of India to the streets of Australia. Preparations have their ingredients listed in mostly avoirdupois measurements with some metric, but there is no table of equivalents. Quality/price rating: 87.

 

 

 

22.MAPLE SYRUP COOKBOOK 3rd ed. (Storey Publishing, 1989, 2001, 2015, 178 pages, ISBN 978-1-61212-664-7, $14.95 US paper covers) is by Ken Haedrich, a Child Cookbook Award winner and author of a dozen cookbooks. This is the 3rd edition of a book originally published in 1989. It has been revised to be up-to-date in nutritional coverage plus a dozen more recipes and full-colour photos. There are more than 100 preps, covering such as maple sticky buns, buttermilk-maple spice cake, crispy maple spareribs, and French Canadian maple syrup pie. There's a primer on history and culture and techniques of "sugaring off", plus profiles of leading personnel in the field. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are covered. Preparations have their ingredients listed in avoirdupois measurements, but there is a table of metric equivalents. Quality/price rating: 88.

 

 

23.A TURKISH COOKBOOK (Grub Street, 2015, 144 pages, ISBN 978-1-909808-24-9, $29.95 CAN hard covers) is by the late Arto der Haroutunian who opened several Armenian restaurants in the UK. He had written many cookbooks for Ebury Press, and these are now being re-released by Grub Street in the UK. This current book is full of stories and anecdotes, memoirs, and such devoted to Turkish food. It was one of the first in English. Haroutunian had written cookbooks on Middle East and North African food, so it was logical to maintain the connection to Turkish food which is, of course, related, and forms a bridge to Greek food and onwards through the upper side of the Mediterranean. It is arranged by course (hors d'oeuvre, pilaus, salads, veggies, kebabs, stews, boregs, mains, breads, pickles, desserts and drinks). He's also got a glossary with recipes and a bibliography, sadly not updated after 1976. Try parcelled boregs (small pies), stuffed mint veggies, Topkapi palace-style chicken, bread topped with meat and cheese, or the ever popular shredded pastry with nuts. Preparations have their ingredients listed in both metric and avoirdupois measurements, but there is no table of equivalents. It is good to have this book back in print once again. Quality/price rating: 88.

 

 

 

24.THE APPRENTICE; my life in the kitchen (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Mariner, 2003, 2015, 319 pages, ISBN 978-0-544-65749-6, $17.95 US paper covers) is by Jacques Pepin. It was originally published in 2003, and has now been reissued in paper covers twelve years later. It is a straight reprint of the original edition. There are 40 of his recipes here, all indexed along with the text which recounts his career through 2003 or so. It is a masterful read if you haven't already done so. The long index is easy to us, especially with its large print. Preparations have their ingredients listed in avoirdupois measurements, but there is no table of metric equivalents. Quality/price rating: 88.

 

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