Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Authentic Oz - June 7, 2014 VINTAGES release

 

June 7, 2014 VINTAGES release


This VINTAGES release features:

There are so many choices in every Vintages release.  How do I choose?  First I narrow it down by tasting notes that intrigue me the most (indicated by bolded text).  Next, my picks usually sway towards something I haven't tried before.  Having said that, I'm a complete sucker for a good sipper so I might return to a past favourite.  An → signifies the bottles that it is most likely going in my shopping bag.  I also list my wishlist (if budget was not part of the equation) and my "long list" (if I won the lottery).  Please follow along as I go page by page.


those most likely to make it into my bag ... 

→ "smoking value & straight up delicious" ~ E. GUIGAL CÔTES DU RHÔNE BLANC 2012 VINTAGES 290296 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 18.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Starting out the whites and a smoking value, the 2012 Cotes du Rhone Blanc is a blend of 65% Viognier, 15% Roussanne, 10% Marsanne, 5% Clairette, 3% Bourboulenc and 2% Grenache Blanc that's vinified and aged all in stainless steel. It offers beautiful white peach, flowers and hints of citrus in a clean, balanced and juicy style. Medium-bodied and straight up delicious, it sells for a song, and is a great intro into Rhone Valley whites. Score - 88. (Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, Dec. 2013)

→ "elegant but serious intensity" ~ KÖNIGSCHAFFHAUSER VULKANFELSEN PINOT NOIR ROSÉ TROCKEN 2013 VINTAGES 168237 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 13.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: So elegant, but shows serious intensity and flavour too. Rosehips, red cherry and strawberry-rhubarb pie delight the senses. Lightly chill and sip with turkey sandwiches or salmon burgers. (VINTAGES panel, April 2014)

→ classic Chianti grapes ~ CARPINETO DOGAJOLO ROSATO 2013 VINTAGES 699934 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 15.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Made with the classic Chianti grapes Sangiovese and Canaiolo, this dry-farmed Tuscan rosé is perfect for warm weather. Pretty aromas of raspberry, strawberry, savoury herbs and wild roses introduce a fresh, tangy wine with a brilliantly crisp finish. Match it to pasta salad with sun-dried tomatoes, a charcuterie platter or salmon burgers. (VINTAGES panel, April 2014)

→ "most amazing wine ... at this price" ~ BRECA OLD VINES GARNACHA 2010 VINTAGES 329086 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: The estate's oldest vines are utilized for the 2010 Breca, also 100% Garnacha from vines that were planted between 1925 and 1945 in decomposed slate and gravelly clay soils. Yields were less than one ton of fruit per acre, and the wine was aged in old large French oak foudres. This is an amazing terroir of steep hillsides and ancient head-pruned vines. Black raspberry, truffle, kirsch, lavender and liquid rock-like characteristics emerge from this astonishing wine. Frankly, I was at a loss for words when I tasted it. It may be the most amazing wine I have ever tasted at this price in over three decades. The wine world is changing, and Jorge Ordonez and his associates deserve a huge amount of credit for producing something this remarkable at this price point. Consumers should fill their trunks with these beauties. Score - 94. (Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, Oct. 2012)

 


my wish list of top picks ...

  •  I love bourbon. period. ~ 1792 RIDGEMONT RESERVE BARREL SELECT KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON VINTAGES 208918 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 49.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: In the spirits department in this Vintages offering, I was most impressed with the 1792 Ridgemont Reserve Barrel Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon...with its tangerine peel, butterscotch, caramel, oak stave and vanilla extract nuances. It is big, mellow, rich and spicy. Score - 93/94. (Gordon Stimmell, The Toronto Star, July, 6, 2013)
  • camomile grappa is an absolute favourite of mine ~ MAROLO MILLA LIQUORE ALLA CAMOMILLA CON GRAPPA VINTAGES 211433 | 700 mL bottle Price $ 69.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: This liquor shows an intense straw yellow color and brilliant green nuances, limpid and crystalline. The nose reveals intense, clean and pleasing aromas of chamomile, pear, hazelnut, walnut and plum, with almost imperceptible alcohol pungency. In the mouth has intense flavors, a pleasing sweet attack and perceptible alcohol pungency which tends to dissolve rapidly, good smoothness, good correspondence to the nose. The finish is persistent with intense flavors of chamomile and a sweet hint. This liquor is produced with chamomile flowers infused for 11 months in grappa of Nebbiolo grape distilled in bainmarie discontinuous alembic still. Score - 4 Stars (out of 5). (diwinetaste.com, Oct. 2005)
  • loyalty to my deep Hungarian roots ~ DOMINIUM CUVÉE LATE HARVEST TOKAJI 2006 VINTAGES 371617 | 500 mL bottle Price $ 28.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Here's a fine value, very nicely balanced late harvest wine from Tokaj, produced from botrytis affected grapes but without skin contact or barrel maturation as for more traditional style tokaji aszú. The nose is still relatively fresh, although I appreciate the developing quince and dried floral notes. Acids are lively and balanced, keeping this light on its toes, with fine and lingering finish. A fine way to spend the afternoon or wind up the evening with fruit-based desserts or soft cheeses. Score - 90. (John Szabo, M.S., winealign.com, Dec. 13, 2013)
  • "over-delivers" ~ QUINTA DO RONCÃO RESERVA 2011 VINTAGES 147942 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 15.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: This over-delivers now and will only improve in bottle over the next 2-7 years; you wouldn't go wrong in starting, or adding this to, a modest collection. Fashioned from premium Port grapes, this red blend sports alluring aromas and delicious flavours of sweet, ripe mulberry, dark, juicy cherry and tangy, black currant interwoven with good acidity and a solid tannin underpinning. A three-hour decant will soften the tannin, as will pouring with grilled, seasoned steak. Score - 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5 (Excellent)). (Vic Harradine, winecurrent.com, June 20, 2013)

 

others that made the "long list" ...


There you have my lists.  Only bringing 2 rosés home with me this time around.  Bottoms up!

remember to ... sit. sip. savour.
Éva Nagy - accredited sommelier & yummy food enthusiast.
Posted by Unknown at 4:22 PM 0 comments

Saturday, May 24, 2014

Rhône Roundup - May 24, 2014 VINTAGES release

May 24, 2014 VINTAGES release


This VINTAGES release features:

There are so many choices in every Vintages release.  How do I choose?  First I narrow it down by tasting notes that intrigue me the most (indicated by bolded text).  Next, my picks usually sway towards something I haven't tried before.  Having said that, I'm a complete sucker for a good sipper so I might return to a past favourite.  An → signifies the bottles that it is most likely going in my shopping bag.  I also list my wishlist (if budget was not part of the equation) and my "long list" (if I won the lottery).  Please follow along as I go page by page.


those most likely to make it into my bag ... 

→ "smoking value & straight up delicious" ~ E. GUIGAL CÔTES DU RHÔNE BLANC 2012 VINTAGES 290296 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 18.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Starting out the whites and a smoking value, the 2012 Cotes du Rhone Blanc is a blend of 65% Viognier, 15% Roussanne, 10% Marsanne, 5% Clairette, 3% Bourboulenc and 2% Grenache Blanc that's vinified and aged all in stainless steel. It offers beautiful white peach, flowers and hints of citrus in a clean, balanced and juicy style. Medium-bodied and straight up delicious, it sells for a song, and is a great intro into Rhone Valley whites. Score - 88. (Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, Dec. 2013)

→ "elegant but serious intensity" ~ KÖNIGSCHAFFHAUSER VULKANFELSEN PINOT NOIR ROSÉ TROCKEN 2013 VINTAGES 168237 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 13.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: So elegant, but shows serious intensity and flavour too. Rosehips, red cherry and strawberry-rhubarb pie delight the senses. Lightly chill and sip with turkey sandwiches or salmon burgers. (VINTAGES panel, April 2014)

→ classic Chianti grapes ~ CARPINETO DOGAJOLO ROSATO 2013 VINTAGES 699934 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 15.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Made with the classic Chianti grapes Sangiovese and Canaiolo, this dry-farmed Tuscan rosé is perfect for warm weather. Pretty aromas of raspberry, strawberry, savoury herbs and wild roses introduce a fresh, tangy wine with a brilliantly crisp finish. Match it to pasta salad with sun-dried tomatoes, a charcuterie platter or salmon burgers. (VINTAGES panel, April 2014)

→ "most amazing wine ... at this price" ~ BRECA OLD VINES GARNACHA 2010 VINTAGES 329086 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: The estate's oldest vines are utilized for the 2010 Breca, also 100% Garnacha from vines that were planted between 1925 and 1945 in decomposed slate and gravelly clay soils. Yields were less than one ton of fruit per acre, and the wine was aged in old large French oak foudres. This is an amazing terroir of steep hillsides and ancient head-pruned vines. Black raspberry, truffle, kirsch, lavender and liquid rock-like characteristics emerge from this astonishing wine. Frankly, I was at a loss for words when I tasted it. It may be the most amazing wine I have ever tasted at this price in over three decades. The wine world is changing, and Jorge Ordonez and his associates deserve a huge amount of credit for producing something this remarkable at this price point. Consumers should fill their trunks with these beauties. Score - 94. (Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, Oct. 2012)

 


my wish list of top picks ...

  •  I love bourbon. period. ~ 1792 RIDGEMONT RESERVE BARREL SELECT KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON VINTAGES 208918 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 49.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: In the spirits department in this Vintages offering, I was most impressed with the 1792 Ridgemont Reserve Barrel Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon...with its tangerine peel, butterscotch, caramel, oak stave and vanilla extract nuances. It is big, mellow, rich and spicy. Score - 93/94. (Gordon Stimmell, The Toronto Star, July, 6, 2013)
  • camomile grappa is an absolute favourite of mine ~ MAROLO MILLA LIQUORE ALLA CAMOMILLA CON GRAPPA VINTAGES 211433 | 700 mL bottle Price $ 69.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: This liquor shows an intense straw yellow color and brilliant green nuances, limpid and crystalline. The nose reveals intense, clean and pleasing aromas of chamomile, pear, hazelnut, walnut and plum, with almost imperceptible alcohol pungency. In the mouth has intense flavors, a pleasing sweet attack and perceptible alcohol pungency which tends to dissolve rapidly, good smoothness, good correspondence to the nose. The finish is persistent with intense flavors of chamomile and a sweet hint. This liquor is produced with chamomile flowers infused for 11 months in grappa of Nebbiolo grape distilled in bainmarie discontinuous alembic still. Score - 4 Stars (out of 5). (diwinetaste.com, Oct. 2005)
  • loyalty to my deep Hungarian roots ~ DOMINIUM CUVÉE LATE HARVEST TOKAJI 2006 VINTAGES 371617 | 500 mL bottle Price $ 28.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Here's a fine value, very nicely balanced late harvest wine from Tokaj, produced from botrytis affected grapes but without skin contact or barrel maturation as for more traditional style tokaji aszú. The nose is still relatively fresh, although I appreciate the developing quince and dried floral notes. Acids are lively and balanced, keeping this light on its toes, with fine and lingering finish. A fine way to spend the afternoon or wind up the evening with fruit-based desserts or soft cheeses. Score - 90. (John Szabo, M.S., winealign.com, Dec. 13, 2013)
  • "over-delivers" ~ QUINTA DO RONCÃO RESERVA 2011 VINTAGES 147942 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 15.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: This over-delivers now and will only improve in bottle over the next 2-7 years; you wouldn't go wrong in starting, or adding this to, a modest collection. Fashioned from premium Port grapes, this red blend sports alluring aromas and delicious flavours of sweet, ripe mulberry, dark, juicy cherry and tangy, black currant interwoven with good acidity and a solid tannin underpinning. A three-hour decant will soften the tannin, as will pouring with grilled, seasoned steak. Score - 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5 (Excellent)). (Vic Harradine, winecurrent.com, June 20, 2013)

 

others that made the "long list" ...


There you have my lists.  Only bringing 2 rosés home with me this time around.  Bottoms up!

remember to ... sit. sip. savour.
Éva Nagy - accredited sommelier & yummy food enthusiast.
Posted by Unknown at 11:11 AM 0 comments

Friday, May 9, 2014

Twin Peaks ~ May 10 VINTAGES release

May 10, 2014 VINTAGES release



In this release, May 10, 2014, VINTAGES release features:


There are so many choices in every Vintages release.  How do I choose?  First I narrow it down by tasting notes that intrigue me the most (indicated by bolded text).  Next, my picks usually sway towards something I haven't tried before.  Having said that, I'm a complete sucker for a good sipper so I might return to a past favourite.  An → signifies the bottles that it is most likely going in my shopping bag.  I also list my wishlist (if budget was not part of the equation) and my "long list" (if I won the lottery).  Please follow along as I go page by page.

 

those most likely to make it into my bag ...

→ superb value for rosé ~ MULDERBOSCH CABERNET SAUVIGNON ROSÉ 2013 VINTAGES 999821 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 12.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Lots of red fruit, redcurrant, red pepper jelly, apple and watermelon aromas here. Bright and flavourful red-tinged fruit on the palate. Tangy and easy-drinking. A good match for pork kebabs or stuffed peppers. (VINTAGES panel, March 2014) 

→ this bottle is gorgeous inside & out! ~ GÉRARD BERTRAND CÔTE DES ROSES ROSÉ 2013 VINTAGES 373985 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: This eye-catching bottle with its glass stopper has great keepsake potential, and there's certainly a lot to want to remember here. The nose is richly layered with aromas of garrigue, wild strawberry, apricot and rhubarb jelly. Juicy, bright and pretty, this will make a mouth-watering companion to turkey sandwiches or to gently spiced dishes. (VINTAGES panel, March 2014)

→ a perennial favourite ~ MUGA ROSÉ 2013 VINTAGES 603795 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 12.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Nice depth on the nose with aromas of strawberry, peach, clementine and rhubarb. Bright, racy and crisp with oodles of tangy red fruit. A touch of pink grapefruit emerges alongside the rhubarb on the finish. The acidity makes this a great match for a range of foods - try it with fish, seafood, turkey sandwiches or summer salads. (VINTAGES panel, March 2014)


my wish list of top picks ...

  •  I love bourbon.  JEFFERSON'S RESERVE VERY OLD VERY SMALL BATCH KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY VINTAGES 367649 | 750 mL bottle Price $67.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Amber color. Aromas of buttery caramel and kettlecorn and grain cereal with a silky dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and a cherry cola, brown spice, honeyed nut and mossy limestone finish. A very nice sipper. Score - 94. (tastings.com, Feb. 8, 2012) 
  • FAIRVIEW PETITE SIRAH 2011 VINTAGES 366252 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 23.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: 2011 packs quite a punch of black fruit - plums & plumcake - with charry, oaky spice. Upfront tannins need time to integrate but concentrated flavours should ensure happy ending. Score - 4 Stars (out of 5 (Excellent)). (Cathy Marston, Platter's South African Wine Guide, 2014)
  • "serious intensity" - FONTANAFREDDA SERRALUNGA D'ALBA BAROLO 2008 VINTAGES 943290 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 39.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Fontanafredda's 2008 Barolo Serralunga wraps around the palate with serious intensity and muscle. This is pure Serralunga in its dark fruit, iron, tar and scorched earth. Powerful tannins frame the incisive, long finish. I see Fontanafredda's straight Barolo as an excellent restaurant wine, despite its considerable power and sheer exuberance. Overall, this is an impressive showing from Fontanafredda. I look forward to seeing what winemaker Danilo Drocco and his team did with the single-vineyard Baroli at Fontanafredda and their sister property, Mirafiore. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Score - 90. (Antonio Galloni, erobertparker.com, Oct. 2012) 
  • REMO FARINA LE PEZZE AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 2011 VINTAGES 171587 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 37.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: A concentrated, powerhouse Amarone with luxurious layers of black fruit, anise, mocha and vanilla smoke. This DOC wine offers extraordinary value for the price. It's a cellar keeper but why wait? Highly recommended. Pair with: grilled meats, rich stews, blue cheese, polenta dishes, venison. Drink: 2014-2022. Score - 93. (Natalie MacLean, nataliemaclean.com, Nov. 17, 2013)   

 

others that made the "long list" ...


There you have my lists.  Apparently, I'm only bringing rosé home with me.  Bottoms up!

remember to ... sit. sip. savour.
Éva Nagy - accredited sommelier & yummy food enthusiast.
Posted by Unknown at 1:55 PM 0 comments

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

New Zealand in a Glass 2014

You know me ... I simply cannot resist a wine tasting.  Especially when it is in the name of practice for my WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) diploma "Light Wines of the World" exam coming up March 2015.  I hear it's a doozy so much practice is in order.  nota bene - that's my excuse & I'm sticking to it!
 
I jumped at the opportunity when New Zealand Winegrowers presented New Zealand in a Glass to trade (afternoon) and consumers (evening) on Monday May 5th.  To be completely honest, I am not a big fan of Sauvignon Blanc but I will always sample it to check my palate - after all, tastes do change.  I found almost all were not the over-the-top-cat's-pee version but crisp, fresh, elegant & well-balanced.  Nary a complaint will be heard over featured New Zealand blends & dessert wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir & Syrah.  Oh, and, don't forget the sparkling - added bonus for me is rosé sparkling!

The wineries featured were as follows ...

Astrolabe Wines

  • Astrolabe Province Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Astrolabe Province Pinot Gris Marlborough 2013
  • Astrolabe Valleys Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2012
  • Astrolabe Valleys Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012



Babich Wines

  • Babich Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Babich Pinot Noir Marlborough 2013
  • Babich Black Label Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Babich Winemaker's Reserve Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012
  • Babich The Patriarch Cabernet Sauvignon Hawke's Bay 2011
 


Elephant Hill

  • Elephant Hill Le Phant Blanc Hawke's Bay 2013 (Viognier, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer)
  • Elephant Hill Syrah Hawke's Bay 2013
  • Elephant Hill Sauvignon Blanc Hawke's Bay 2013 (upcoming ~ August 1st Vintages release)
  • Elephant Hill Le Phant Hawke's Bay 2012



Huia Vineyards

  • Huia Sparkling Marlborough 2009
  • Huia Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Huia Pinto Gris Marlborough 2012
  • Huia Pinot Noir Marlborough 2011
  • Hunky Dory Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Hunky Dory Tangle White Blend Marlborough 2013
  • Hunky Dory Pinot Noir Marlborough 2013


Hunter's Wines 

  • Hunter's Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012
  • Hunter's Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Hunter's MiruMiru Sparkling Marlborough NV
  • Hunter's Chardonnay Marlborough 2012

              


Loveblock Vintners 

  • Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Loveblock Pinot Noir Central Otago 2012
 


Marisco Vineyards

  • Marisco Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Marisco Vineyards Pinot Noir Marlborough 2011
  • The Ned Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • The Ned Pinot Gris Marlborough 2013
  • The Ned Pinot Noir Marlborough 2013
  • The Ned Noble Sauvignon Blanc Dessert Wine Marlborough 2012
  • The Kings Favour Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • The Kings Thorn Pinot Gris Marlborough 2013
  • The Kings Legacy Chardonnay Marlborough 2012
  • The Kings Wrath Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012
  • The King's A Sticky End Noble Sauvignon Blanc Dessert Wine Marlborough 2011





Oyster Bay New Zealand 

  • Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Brut Hawke's Bay NV
  • Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé NV
  • Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Oyster Bay Pinot Grigio Hawke's Bay 2013
  • Oyster Bay Chardonnay Marlborough 2013
  • Oyster Bay Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012
  • Oyster Bay Merlot Hawke's Bay 2013



Pask Winery 

  • Pask Roy's Hill Merlot Hawke's Bay 2011
  • Pask Gimblett Road Cabernet Merlot Malbec Hawke's Bay 2010
  • Kate Radburnd Vine Velvet Pinot Noir Martinborough 2012
  • Kate Radburnd Sun Kissed Pinot Gris Hawke's Bay 2012



Pernod Ricard Winemakers 

  • Stoneleigh Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Stoneleigh Latitude Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Stoneleigh Vineyards Chardonnay Marlborough 2013
  • Stoneleigh Vineyards Pinot Noir Rosé Marlborough 2013
  • Stoneleigh Vineyards Pinot Noir Marlborough 2013
  • Stoneleigh Latitude Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012 (upcoming ~ June 1st Vintages release)
  • Brancott Estate Letter Series "B" Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2012



Saint Clair Family Estate

  • Saint Clair Pioneer Block 24 Arthur Block Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Saint Clair Pioneer Block 18 Snap Block Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Saint Clair Pioneer Block 15 Strip Block Pinot Noir Marlborough 2010
  • Saint Clair Pioneer Block 23 Master Block Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012
  • Saint Clair Family Estate Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Saint Clair Vicar's Choice Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013



Villa Maria Estate 

  • Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Villa Maria Private Bin Rosé Hawke's Bay 2013
  • Villa Maria Private Bin Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012
  • Villa Maria Private Bin Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Hawke's Bay 2012
  • Villa Maria Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Villa Maria Cellar Selection Pinot Noir Marlborough 2010

 


Whitehaven Wine Company

  • Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013
  • Whitehaven Pinot Noir Marlborough 2012



Chardonnay Regional Counter

  • Hunter's Chardonnay Marlborough 2012
  • Marisco The Kings Legacy Chardonnay Marlborough 2012
  • Oyster Bay Chardonnay Marlborough 2013
  • Stoneleigh Vineyards Chardonnay Marlborough 2013
  • Villa Maria Reserve Barrel Fermented Chardonnay Gisborne 2012



The Village Press - Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Avocado Oil

  • Varietal Olive Oil:
    • Barnea Olive Oil
    • Manzanillo Olive Oil
    • Frantoio Olive Oil
    • Picual Olive Oil
  • Avocado Oil
  • Infused Olive Oil:
    • Lemon-infused Olive Oil
    • Fennel-infused Olive Oil
    • Rosemary & Garlic-infused Olive Oil
    • Lime-infused Olive Oil 


I hope you have enjoyed my tour of New Zealand in a Glass.  Bottoms up!

sit. sip. savour.
Éva Nagy - accredited sommelier & yummy food enthusiast
Posted by Unknown at 12:32 PM 1 comments

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Bordeaux that won't break the bank - April 26, 2014 VINTAGES release

April 26, 2014 VINTAGES release


In this release, April 26, 2014, VINTAGES release features:
The price point of new releases is somewhat higher so I'm changing my focus for my selections.  In the past, I made a list of those most likely to make it into my bag but that leaves many intriguing choices out.  As always, my picks usually sway towards something I haven't tried before - I always like to expand my horizons.  Having said that I'm a sucker for a good wine for sipping so I might go back to a past favourite.  Bolded text continues to indicate what caught my eye. An → signifies that it is most likely going in my shopping bag.  Please follow along as I go page by page.

My picks include ...

7 year old 100% rye whisky + maple syprup = yummy ... SORTILÈGE PRESTIGE VINTAGES 317206 | 750 mL bottle Price $49.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: The coming of spring brings in the year's first harvest: maple syrup. Sugar shacks will be opening and the sap running this March. Bring the fun home with a bottle of Sortilege Prestige, a uniquely Canadian blend of 100 per cent rye whisky aged seven years in white oak barrels mixed with first run Quebec maple syrup (category one, extra clear, considered the finest). From Maison des Futailles, it's sweet, but not too, with true maple syrup flavours balanced by good whisky power throughout. Score - 91. (Margaret Swaine, winealign.com, March 11, 2013)

FLEURY BLANC DE NOIRS BRUT CHAMPAGNE VINTAGES 368761 | 750 mL bottle Price $54.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: This has a notably deep golden colour and even lightly pinkish-grey tinge, displaying considerable evolution. The nose is likewise intensely rich and toasty and wonderfully mature, fully focused on toasted almonds and hazelnuts, dried fruit -apples, pears and nectarines - [and] dried cherries, alongside plenty of toasted wheat bread with honey and apple turnover-type aromatics. The palate is linear and firm, very dry, braced by riveting acids and very good to excellent length. This is a champagne for fans of a mature and toasty style, suitable for sipping but even better for the table, and, say, a hazelnut-encrusted sea bass. Score - 92. (John Szabo, M.S., winealign.com, Dec. 13, 2013)

6 varietals ... MOUTARD PÈRE & FILS CUVÉE DES 6 CÉPAGES BRUT CHAMPAGNE LCBO 185595 | 750 mL bottle Price $87.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: A rich and expressive style, offering ripe peach and currant fruit, with notes of toasted brioche, honey, lemon curd, ground anise and espresso and a hint of toasted almond. Fine-grained, creamy and mouthwatering, this displays focus and integration throughout. Chardonnay, Arbanne, Petit Meslier, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Disgorged October 2012. Drink now through 2028. Score - 93. (Alison Napjus, winespectator.com, July 31, 2013)

TAWSE SPARK LIMESTONE RIDGE RIESLING SPARKLING WINE 2012 VINTAGES 370361 | 750 mL bottle Price $19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: ... when you taste a riesling sparkling wine like this one, you'd like to see more. The acidity is terrific: bright, zesty, vibrant, but also manageable, not hard-edged or tart. It carries the well-defined and nuanced fruit effectively, and is punctuated by a very good volume of small bubbles. Score - 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5). (Rod Phillips, winealign.com, Oct. 10, 2013)

DOMAINE J. LAURENS LE MOULIN BRUT BLANQUETTE DE LIMOUX VINTAGES 180323 | 750 mL bottle Price $17.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Nice bit of development. Very fresh and really quite special for the money. Quite delicate on the palate. Good Value. Drink: 2013-2015. Score - 16 (out of 20 (Distinguished)). (Jancis Robinson, MW, jancisrobinson.com, Nov. 19, 2013)

LA MARCA PROSECCO VINTAGES 287987 | 750 mL bottle Price $17.95 - LCBO
Description: Ranked #75 in Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2007, with a score of 90. (Jo Cooke, winespectator.com, April 30, 2007); LCBO Tasting Note: La Marca offers a bit of citrus and is - somewhat surprisingly - slightly tart with a nice light and dry finish. The easy-drinking crowd-pleaser can be a wonderful option for friends who aren't into higher-priced bottles that impart a yeasty, bone-dry flavor that many sparklers or Champagne often have ... It's made from glera grapes. (Marc Bona, cleveland.com, Dec. 23, 2013)

→ MALIVOIRE MUSQUÉ SPRITZ 2013 VINTAGES 189670 | 750 mL bottle Price $19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Like a Moscato d'Asti with a bit of extra zip, this lovely take on Chardonnay Musqué opens with bountiful aromas of honeysuckle, citrus zest and angel food cake. The eponymous spritz is quite delicate and, along with brilliantly fresh acidity, adds dimension to the sweet citrus fruit. Crisp, tangy finish. Pair with spicy foods, soft blue cheeses or fresh fruit. (VINTAGES panel, Feb. 2014)

MALIVOIRE RIESLING 2012 VINTAGES 277483 | 750 mL bottle Price $15.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Sweet-kissed Riesling gushing with lemon, lime, grapefruit, pear and mineral oil with a suggestion of wet stones. A great choice for sushi or spicy pad Thai. (VINTAGES panel, March 2014)

→ KEINT-HE VOYAGEUR PINOT NOIR 2012 VINTAGES 373407 | 750 mL bottle Price $17.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: An absolute steal at this price -- your palate will be convinced your pocketbook is playing a late April Fool's joke. Opens with classic Pinot Noir aromas of plum, cherry stone, red beets, earth and a pretty notion of rose petal. Elegant and expressive in the mouth with good complexity and a long finish. Bravo. Enjoy with roast beef, mushroom kebabs or steak sliders. (VINTAGES panel, March 2014)

BERINGER CHARDONNAY 2012 VINTAGES 84988 | 750 mL bottle Price $19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Fans of this wine will recognize the value here, and that is something for everyone to be excited about. Big, full throttle aromas of buttered toast, grilled pineapple, peach and firewood all getting a look-in. Round, juicy and packed with fruit flavours. Smoky and toasty on the finish. Pair with roast chicken or grilled pork. (VINTAGES panel, March 2014)

ATREA OLD SOUL RED 2009 VINTAGES 214825 | 750 mL bottle Price $33.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Jammy and appealingly briary, with raspberry and fresh sassafras aromas, offering zesty black cherry jam and spice notes that finish with ripe tannins. Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Malbec. Drink now through 2018. Score - 91. (Tim Fish, winespectator.com, April 30, 2013)

CAYMUS SPECIAL SELECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2011 VINTAGES 711663 | 750 mL bottle Price $138.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: A brilliant wine, and one of the stars of the vintage, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection boasts aromas of blueberry pie, blackberries, cassis and white flowers. This full-bodied, velvety textured, delicious 2011 is already drinking well, and should continue to do so for 10-12 years. It is a terrific success for the vintage. Score - 95. (Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, Oct. 2013)

CATENA CHARDONNAY 2012 VINTAGES 918805 | 750 mL bottle Price $19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: The 2012 Catena Chardonnay brings aromas and flavors of ripe melon, pears and tropical fruits along with vanilla and warm toasty notes. On the palate this is fresh and crisp leaving behind notes of mineral and spicy pears. The fruit was aged for 10 months, sur lies, prior to spending 12 month in bottle. Drink: 2013-2017. Score - 90. (Joe D'Angelo, internationalwinereport.com, June 2013)

→ ALAMOS SYRAH 2012 VINTAGES 183848 | 750 mL bottle Price $13.95 - LCBO Description:
Best known for deep and spicy Malbec, Mendoza also produces deep and spicy Syrah, such as this astoundingly well-priced version from leading producer Catena. Look for ripe, dark berry fruit and peppercorn notions. A winner with pepper steaks or grilled burgers.

CASARENA RAMANEGRA RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2011 VINTAGES 366138 | 750 mL bottle Price $18.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: (all from 82-year-old vines): Bright medium ruby. Restrained but pure aromas of blackcurrant, bitter chocolate, mocha and peppery herbs. Dense, sappy and deep, boasting a seamlessness in spite of its musky dark berry flavors accented by pepper and herbs. Classic, satisfying and complete cabernet, with a lush, round texture, excellent breadth and length, and very suave, fine-grained tannins. This could do some damage in a blind flight of top Napa cabernets. Score - 92. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, March/April 2013)

YALUMBA VIOGNIER 2012 VINTAGES 954644 | 750 mL bottle Price $24.95 - LCBO Description: Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2013 International Wine Challenge; LCBO Tasting Note: (made entirely with indigenous yeasts): Light, bright yellow. Sexy, energetic aromas and flavors of white peach, pear, melon and tangerine, with an intense floral overtone. Juicy, focused and palate-staining, with a suave interplay of richness and vivacity. Shows excellent power and depth on the chewy finish, which is firm and sharply focused but not at all hard. It's my contention that Louisa Rose, the person behind this and all of Yalumba's viogniers for over two decades now, handles viognier with as much skill as any winemaker in the New World and more than most in the Rhone Valley. She's also responsible for a boatload of it every year, which makes the wines, most of which are ridiculously underpriced, all the more impressive. Rose is the chief winemaker for all of Yalumba's production now, by the way, and I hope they don't forget that it's viognier that brought her to the dance. Score - 91. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 2013)

MOMO PINOT NOIR 2011 VINTAGES 163972 | 750 mL bottle Price $19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Big and juicy, with pleasingly tart and vibrant cherry aromas and flavours in this kiwi pinot noir. Mouth-watering acidity is fantastic for a range of dishes, from planked salmon to roast chicken. Smooth and medium- to full-bodied. Very tasty. Made by the film director of many famous movies, including several of the Harry Potter series. This red wine is bio-gro certified and the grapes came from three vineyard sites. The wine was fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged 11 months in old French barrels. Pair with: salad, mushroom risotto, planked salmon, frittata, coq au vin. Drink: 2013-2018. Score - 92. (Natalie MacLean, nataliemaclean.com, Dec. 26, 2013)

DOMAINE DU TREMBLAY VIN NOBLE QUINCY 2012 VINTAGES 375659 | 750 mL bottle Price $20.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Fragrant, with a fresh, lemony and grassy nose, loads of chalky and stony minerality, and lovely complexity on the palate. Subtle Loire gooseberry juciness, fresh kiwi and elderflower notes. Quincy doesn't get better than this. Score - 5 Stars (out of 5). (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2013)

→ CHÂTEAU PUECH-HAUT PRESTIGE SAINT-DRÉZÉRY 2011 VINTAGES 237289 | 750 mL bottle Price $29.95 - LCBO Description: In The Oxford Companion to Wine, Jancis Robinson, MW, indicates that Saint-Drézéry is the smallest named terroir in the Coteaux du Languedoc; LCBO Tasting Note: A sensational offering from proprietor Gerard Bru, the 2011 Prestige is the estate's least expensive wine. Readers may remember the fabulous review the 2010 Prestige received, and the 2011 is just as special. With Bru's top Reserve wine selling for nearly $100 a bottle, the Prestige cuvee is an outstanding value. Interestingly, Bru has had three of the greatest winemaking consultants on Planet Earth working for him, first Michel Rolland, followed by Claude Gros and now Philippe Cambie. A blend of 60-75-year-old vine Grenache (55%) and 40-year old Syrah (45%), all grown on limestone soils dominated by the famous large rocks (galets roules) also found in parts of Chateauneuf du Pape. The wine is aged in concrete tanks prior to being bottled unfiltered. Some of the vineyards are farmed organically and others biodynamically. The wine exhibits a tremendous perfume of sweet raspberries, spring flowers, forest floor, truffles and lavender as well as a beautiful texture, a full-bodied mouthfeel, stunning velvety tannins and purity, and a long finish. This is the 'real deal.' Drink it over the next 4-6 years. Score - 91. (Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, Dec. 2012)

→ CASCINA DEL POZZO ROERO ARNEIS 2012 VINTAGES 368506 | 750 mL bottle Price $18.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Lively aromas of honeysuckle, key lime and mineral/slate notes open this beautifully balanced mouthful of flavour and charm. A stylish wash of grilled pineapple, white peach and crisp Granny Smith apple ripple over the palate persisting through the lengthy lip-smacking finish. It's mid weight with considerable texture and notions of honeyed fruit peeking through on the aftertaste. Pour alongside roast pork and veggie risotto. Special designation: Exceptional Value. Score - 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5 (Excellent)). (Vic Harradine, winecurrent.com, Aug. 28, 2013)

ASCHERI PISAPOLA BAROLO 2010 VINTAGES 739920 | 750 mL bottle Price $44.95 - LCBO Description: The Ascheri Family has owned the Rivalta vineyard, where the Nebbiolo for this wine is sourced, since 1700.; LCBO Tasting Note: Some cellar time and decanting will help this full-bodied D.O.C.G. red wine. Black as night with tarry, dark fruit, smoke aromas. The grapes for this wine come from two of Ascheri's best vineyards: Pisapola and Verduno. Some leather and violets on the finish. Pair with: anchovy pizza, porcini mushrooms, prime rib beef. Drink: 2015-2020. Score - 91. (Natalie MacLean, nataliemaclean.com, Dec. 26, 2013)

VILLA CAFAGGIO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2010 VINTAGES 176776 | 750 mL bottle Price $19.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: This is a beautiful wine from a great vintage. It has a rich fragrance of underbrush, mushroom and truffle, with ripe black-cherry, mint and rosemary accents. It's still young with exuberant but supple tannins and racy acidity. Drink 2016-2025. Score - 92. (Kerin O'Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Oct. 2013)

VALPANTENA TORRE DEL FALASCO RIPASSO VALPOLICELLA 2011 VINTAGES 642421 | 750 mL bottle Price $17.95 - LCBO Description: Fans of Amarone often look to Ripasso wines for a lighter take on the signature wine styles of Veneto. Valpantena's Torre del Falasco makes a great introduction to Ripasso - but really, at this price, even seasoned Veneto lovers shouldn't miss this one. Look for dark cherry fruit framed by silky tannins, milk chocolate and baking spices. A natural with meaty pasta, grilled beef or flavourful cheeses.

MURALHAS DE MONÇÃO VINHO VERDE 2012 VINTAGES 80374 | 750 mL bottle Price $14.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: Piercing and expressive aromatics with impressive citrus, melon and crisp apple notes. Tangy grapefruit shines on the palate along with a tasty mineral streak. A crisp, satisfying finish. Enjoy this with grilled calamari or steamed mussels. (VINTAGES panel, March 2014)

from DOCa Priorat ... ALVARO PALACIOS VELLES VINYES LES TERRASSES 2011 VINTAGES 977843 | 750 mL bottle Price $46.95 - LCBO Description: Ranked #26 in Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2013.; Tasting Note: A light texture carries racy, intense flavors in this expressive red, with bright cherry, licorice, mineral, garrigue and spice notes mingling over light tannins and buoyed by lively acidity. Balanced, focused and elegant, with a lingering finish. Drink now through 2021. Special designation: Highly Recommended. Score - 93. (Thomas Matthews, winespectator.com, Sept. 2013)

FAUSTINO I GRAN RESERVA 2001 VINTAGES 976662 | 750 mL bottle Price $32.95 - LCBO Description: After tasting more than 3,200 wines from all over the world, the judging panel of Decanter magazine proclaimed the Faustino I Gran Reserva 2001 their Top Wine of the Year for 2013.; LCBO Tasting Note: Deliciously decadent, with extraordinary vitality on the palate and a long, unique finish. A jewel at this price. Score - 100. (Pedro Ballesteros Torres, MW, decanter.com, May 23, 2013)

MAETIERRA DOMINUM QP 2006 VINTAGES 246660 | 750 mL bottle Price $22.95 - LCBO Tasting Note: The 2006 Maetierra Dominum QP is a blend of four estates (QP standing for 'Quatro Pagos') whose fruit complements each other. It is a blend of 93% Tempranillo, 4% Graciano and 3% Garnacha from 50- to 105-year-old vines and matured in French oak for 16 months. It has a lifted bouquet of red currant and fresh strawberry with a veneer of creamy oak that is in synch with the fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a supple entry, soft tannins and a pure, rounded, sensual Morello and lemon peel finish. This is very seductive! Drink now-2018. Score - 90. (Neal Martin, erobertparker.com, Aug. 2012)

So there you have my very long list of VINTAGES releases that caught my eye.  It really is tough to choose which ones will come home with me.  Decisions, decisions, decisions, ...

Bottoms up!
Éva Nagy - accredited sommelier & yummy food enthusiast
sit. sip. savour.
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