As with other wine regions, some years are better for Ontario than others.  Recent memorable Ontario vintages include 1998, 2002; 2005.  Hot and dry conditions produced small concentrated berries, wine with concentrated flavour and body.  Over the last few years I have been impressed with the Bordeaux style blends (Meritage) and whites, especially Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.  Why not try something local from a good vintage.

Ontario – Niagara

2007 Tawse Sketches of Niagara Merlot/Cabernet, VQA Niagara, $19.95

Drink now -2013
Grapes: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
The second label of Tawse gets the nod as a wine of the month from Vintages.  Wines of the month are generally a safe bet at the price point.  This should drink well now with some decanting time, or over the next few years.-RM
‘…appealing Bordeaux style…serious structure, remarkable purity of fruit and refreshing acidity…4/5 stars…’ – Christopher Waters (Vines) 130252

2007 Lailey Pinot Noir, VQA Niagara River, $24.95

Drink now – 2012
Grapes: Pinot Noir
Wines from Lailey seem to sell out at the winery so we don’t see them in stores too often.  They produce consistently good reds. -RM
‘…black cherry, spring flowers, cocoa and beetroot aromas.  Dry, round and textured…moderate tannins…medium bodied’ – Vintages 591404

2007 Malivoire Gamay, VQA Niagara Escarpment, $17.95

Drink now – 2011
Grapes: Gamay
Gold Medal at 2009 Ontario Wine Awards
91- Gordon Stimmell, Toronto Star
Ontario Gamay tends to be bigger and bolder than Gamay from the Beaujolais region in Burgundy.  This one got a gold medal at the recent Ontario Wine Awards.  -RM
‘…vanilla bean, sumptuous black cherry…hint of black currants in the aromas…cola, cassis and black cherry depth… – GS (TS) 591313

2007 Southbrook Triomphe Syrah, VQA Niagara Peninsula, $24.95

Drink now – 2013
Grapes: Syrah
90 – John Szabo (wineaccess.ca)
Syrah is another red variety that does well in Niagara.  John Szabo gives this one a 90. -RM
‘…medium deep ruby red with purple…fresh, juicy peppery black and red fruit…lots of varietal character…surprisingly soft and plush tannins…’ JS (WA) 129809

Australia – Shiraz

2006 Elderton Shiraz, Barossa Valley South Australia, $29.95

Drink now – 2016
Grapes: Shiraz
91 – Jay Miller (WA)
Here is another wine from Elderton, one of Barossa’s better producers.  From Jay Millers’ description this wine should be a classic example of Barossa Shiraz. -RM
‘…deep crimson…multifaceted perfume of smoke, black pepper, bacon, and blueberry…smooth textured, ripe Shiraz…layers of savory fruit, soft tannins…’ – JM (WA) 713024

France – Midi – Value Cellar Pick

2004 Chateau Pech-Redon L’Épervier, AC Coteaux du Languedoc, $19.95

Drink now – 2013
Grapes: 40% Grenache, 40%Syrah, 20% Carignan
90 – David Schildknecht (WA)

The Languedoc is a good source of value wines, especially those with Grenache/Syrah blends.  This one is blended with Carignan, another grape of Southern France.  Try one to see if it measures up to the review then put a few away for 3-5 years and try again.  Give it some decanting time for tannins to soften up if opening now. – RM

‘…nose of kirsch macerated dried cherries, black currants and walnuts…sweet black fruits…herbs…slight firmness of tannin not being at all obtrusive…’ – DS (WS) 129965

Italy – Veneto – Quintarelli

2000 Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC, $89.95

Drink now – 2015
Grapes: Valpolicella blend
4 1/5 of 5 stars – Vic Harradine (winecurrent.com)
Quintarelli is a legend of the Veneto region.  His Amarone goes for hundreds of dollars a bottle.  If you want to try the best of Valpolicella this is the one, and from a great vintage.  RM

‘…rich and well structured…aromas of dried spicy berry fruit…mulberry and red cherry…moderated by a stream of zest and tang… well balanced…’ – VH (WC) 986117

Italy – Veneto – Amarone

2004 Tenuta Sant’Antonio Selezione Antonio Castagnedi Amarone Della Valpolicella DOC, $44.95

Drink now – 2015
Grapes: Valpolicella blend
5 of 5 Stars – Tom Hyland (learnitalianwines.com)
This sounds like a modern styled (accessible young) Amarone that should drink well now and over the next few years.  Amarone, made with dried (concentrated) grapes by the appassimentto technique tends to be full bodied with big flavours.  Hyland’s description suggests a lighter than traditional Amarone, hence good early drinking but enough structure to cellar a few years.  RM

‘Light, bright ruby red with aromas of tobacco, coriander, and red cherry…medium-full…good to excellent concentration…long finish with excellent fruit persistence, lively acidity and polished tannins…’ – TH  685107

Spain – Rioja – Organic

2007 Navarrsotillo Noemus Joven DOC, $14.95

Drink now 2011
Grapes: 60% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 20% Mazuelo
Gold Medal at Millésime Bio 2009
Joven means short barrel ageing and wine suited to drinking young.  This Tempranillo Garnacha Mazuelo blend should be medium bodied and smooth with good fruit.  Wines like this one from Rioja tend to be nicely balanced with smooth tannins.  RM

‘Bursting with ripe berry fruit and a hint of raisin…round fleshy…fine balance and a bit of tannic grip…’ – Vintages  131839

Spain – Ribera del Duero

2004 Torrederos Tinto Crianza DO, Ribera del Duero, $24.95

Drink now 2015
91 Jay Miller (WA)
The Crianza designation means longer barrel and bottle ageing than Joven.  At 5 years this should be ready to drink, but some Crianza’s may develop in the cellar for a few years.  Wines from Ribera del Duero seem to have a bit more complexity and concentration compared to Rioja, but retain the smoothness and balance of Rioja wines.RM

‘…dark ruby…aromas of pencil lead, earth, mushroom, vanilla and blackberry…medium to full bodied…will evolve for several years…’ – JM (WA)  114314

Cheers,   Ross

The Rhone Valley is divided into North and South, with Syrah in the North, and Chateauneuf-du-Pape in the South. Exceptions are Condrieu in the North which is known for its high end Viognier, and Tavel in the South which is known for Rosé.  Watch for names of the various appellations on bottles, as each appellation usually has its own distinct style.

Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of up to 13 varieties, including some whites such as Viognier.  The main grapes are Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre.  The big 3 grapes show up in regional blends such as those of Vacqueyras and throughout southern France.  In the new world, especially Australia, one sees GSM on the label.  Wines based on this type of blend can range from well balanced medium bodied ‘drink and enjoy now’ wines to full bodied wines capable of decades of cellaring.  Price is often a good general indication of which category a wine falls into.

Southern Rhone – Chateauneuf

2007 Delas Haute Pierre Chateauneuf du Pape AC, $35.95    Great value

Drink now -2017
Grapes: 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah
94 – Robert Parker (WA)
91 – James Molesworth (WS)
The 2007 vintage is an exceptional for the Southern Rhone.  Delas is a good quality producer of wines from the Northern as well as Southern Rhone.  With the combination of producer and vintage it is no surprise that this wine scores well.  Drink it now (decant) or cellar to drink over the next several years.  At the price point this should be great value either way.-RM
‘…deep ruby/purple colour…gorgeous nose of black fruits, spring flowers, licorice, incense….dense, full bodied….chewy…’ – RP (WA) 074195

Southern Rhone – Vacqueyras

2005 Domaine Saint-Pierre Vacqueyras AC, $24.95

Drink now – 2012
Grapes: Southern Rhone Blend
91-93 – Robert Parker (WA)
Wines from Vacqueyras have been making more frequent appearances at Vintages over the last year or so.  Some have been excellent values, especially at the $20-25 level.  Here is one from the great 20-05 vintage that gets a good rating from Parker.  Although it may have the structure to age for a few years, it should be very enjoyable now with some decanter time.  If you do have room in your cellar it would be interesting to see how this wine is in a few years.-RM
‘…dense ruby/purple…full bodied…terrific ripeness…huge blackberry and cherry liqueur…licorice, garrique…espresso…’ – RP (WA) 130013

Tavel – Rosé

2008 Cuvee Tableau Tavel AC, $18.95

Drink now
Grapes: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre + (White) Clairette, Bourboulenc; Picpoul
There are rosé wines from just about everywhere nowadays.  Why not try one from the benchmark appellation for rosé.  This rosé is made with a real Chateauneuf blend. -RM
‘…Electric pink colour…aromas of strawberry/rhubarb, orange peel, citrus mineral and pear drops…dry….good crisp acidity…try with pan fried fresh water fish… – Vintages 117309

Northern Rhone – Syrah

2005 Caves Dumazet Cuvee Charlemagne Cornas AC, $44.95     Cellar Pick

Drink now – 2018
Grapes: Syrah
91 – James Molesworth (WS)
Cornas is known for big inky dark full bodied Syrah capable of substantial cellaring.  Here is one from the great 2005 vintage.  Give it considerable decant time if opening now (1-2 hours).  This should be at its best at about 8-10 years of ageing. -RM
‘Mouthfilling with solid grip…olive, aged tobacco, macerated black cherry and spice flavors…solid version of the traditional style…’ JM (WS) 130054

2006 Ferraton Pere et Fils La Matiniere Crozes-Hermitage AC, $21.95

Drink now -2012
Grapes: Syrah
91 James Molesworth (WS)
Crozes-Hermitage surrounds the more prestigious appellation of Hermitage.  You get some of the character at often a much better price.  This Syrah should be a great value from a good year that will drink well now and over the next year or so. RM
‘…juicy, structured style…iron, lavender…black cherry and currant fruit…herb note marks the finish’ JM (WS) 127712

California – Zin

2007 Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel, Sonoma County, $28.95

Drink now – 2012
Grapes: Zinfandel
93 Tim Smart (WS)    #10 on Wine Spectator Top 100 for 2008
If you like Zinfandel or would like to try one here is a chance to do so and enjoy a wine from the top 10 on the Spectators 2008 100 list for under $30.  -RM
‘…seductive and vigorous…smoky black cherry and blueberry aromas…wild berry, sage and cracked pepper…’ – Vintages 942151

France –Bordeaux

2005 Chateau St. Georges, AC St-George-St-Emilion, $34.95

Drink now – 2013
Grapes: Right Bank blend

This is from a Right Bank satellite appellation (surrounding St. Émilion and Pomerol).  This is of the variety that tends to drink well over the first 10 years.  Expect a medium to full bodied wine with lots of smooth fruit up front. – RM

‘…aromas such as cherry and plum with fine tannins…’ – Vintages 125666

Italy – Piedmont

2007 Paolo Manzone Magna Dolcetto D’Alba DOC, $16.95

Drink now
Grapes: Dolcetto
.
Dolcetto is a variety grown in Piedmont that is great for drinking young.  It is medium bodied, smooth, with good fruit.  RM

‘…raspberry and citrus aromas and flavours…medium bodied and freshly fruity…excellent aperitif red or enjoy it with grilled chicken breast or poached salmon…’ – Vintages 117176

Piedmont – Barolo Bargain

2004 Patrizi Barolo 2004 DOCG, $29.95        Exceptional value

Drink now
Grapes: Nebbiolo
.
The Patrizi is a modern styled early drinking Barolo that is a great value at the price.  The last time I saw this Barolo was the 2000 vintage (in 2004).  Decant it and let it open up.  This wine should be full flavoured and smooth.  This is a great Barolo to drink while waiting for some of the more expensive 2004s (e.g. Pio Cesare, Paolo Conterno, etc.) to age.  RM

‘…rich yet very crisp Nebbiolo…rose, plum, leather and a hint of barnyard……’ – Vintages 653527

Cheers,   Ross

Chile is divided by mountains into a number of valleys which generally run north-south.  Amongst the varied terrain and conditions, they grow a variety of both red and white varieties.  Although there are a handful of producers that command premium pricing, the bulk of wine produced seems to be economical ‘buy and drink’ wine or suitable for short term ageing.  They do make some nice full bodied Cabernet Sauvignon.  Carmenère which was once mistaken (or touted as) Merlot is another French grape that is no longer planted significantly in France but has done well in Chile.  Two things to look at when you find a bottle of Chilean wine that you like are 1) the valley, and 2) the producer.  This will help you find others that you may enjoy as well.

Chile – Chardonnay

2007 Montes Alpha Chardonnay, Casablanca Valley Special Cuvee, $22.95

Drink now
Grapes: Chardonnay
90 – Josh Raynolds (Int’l Wine Cellar)
4 things indicate that this could be a good pick: 1) Montes Alpha is a reliable producer in the price range, 2) Casablanca Valley is a good valley, 3)  Vintages has picked it as a cover item (part advertising, part should be good) and finally 4) Josh Raynolds, a reliable critic likes it.  -RM
‘…light gold…aromas of white peach, tarragon, floral honey and smoky lees…citrus and pit fruit flavors…buttered toast and baking spices…’ – JR (Int’l Wine Cellar) 390203

Chile – Cabernet

2006 Santa Rita Medalla Real Special Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley, $19.95

Drink now – 2012
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon
91 – James Molesworth (WS)
A Santa Rita was one of the first very enjoyable Chilean Cabs that I had, back in the early 1990’s.  Santa Rita continues to be a good name for Cabernet.   The Maipo Valley is one of the most successful. -RM
‘Ripe and concentrated…macerated current, fig paste, espresso, loam and black licorice notes…dense but integrated tannins…’ – JM (WS) 275594

Chile – Carmenère Vintages Wine of the Month

2007 Concha y Toro Winemakers Lot 148 Carmenere, Rapel Valley, Las Ptatuas Vineyard $16.95

Drink now – 2012
Grapes: Carmenère
This Carmenère gets the nod from Vintages as a wine of the month, and won the Grand Trophy at Chile’s 2nd annual Carmenère Competition in 2009; that makes it worth a try. -RM
‘…deep ruby purple…nose of ripe cassis, dark chocolate, sage, cedar… – Vintages 146258

Chile – Syrah

2007 Montes Alpha Syrah, Colchagua Valley, Apalta Vineyard, $22.95

Drink now – 2010
Grapes: Syrah
90 – James Molesworth (WS)
He I’m looking at 3 things: 1) Montes Alpha is a good producer, 2) The Colchagua is a good valley, and 3) Syrah might do well in a climate that produces good Cabernet and Chardonnay.  I would expect more of a cool climate Northern Rhone style vs. a hot climate Barossa Valley Shiraz.  For $22.95 it could be interesting to try if you enjoy a good Syrah. -RM
‘Alluring with roasted coffee and vanilla bean note…rich palate of dark cherry, mulled currant and blackberry fruit…’ JM (WS) 000612

Australia – Shiraz Cabernet Blend

2006 Elderton E Series Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon, South Australia, $14.95

Drink now -2010
Grapes: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon
88 Harvey Steiman (WS)
This is a lower end wine from the very good producer – Elderton.  At $15 this could be a very good quaffer and great with bbq fare or spicy chicken.  Just last night I shared a bottle of Elderton’s 2001 CSM (Cabernet/Shiraz/Merlot) which was outstanding.  The CSM was great with a chicken baked and seasoned with a bbq sauce/allspice combo – very good.- RM
‘Smooth and round…peppery note riding over the dark berry and licorice flavours…mild grip of tannins.’ HS (WS) 108043

France – Midi – Viognier

2008 Domaine des Aspes Viognier, Vin de Pays d’Oc, $14.95

Drink now
Grapes: Viognier
Viognier is one of the grapes that goes into Chateauneuf du Pape (red) even though it is a white.  It is rich with floral aromatics.  Viognier does well on its own across southern France.  -RM
‘one of the most consistent Viogniers of the Languedoc…pit fruits, garrique, melon and pear…enjoy with spiced seafood dishes’ – Vintages 712638

France – Bargain Bordeaux

2005 Chateau Roquetaillade la Grange Vieilles Vignes, AC Graves, $21.95

Drink 2010 – 2012
Grapes: Left bank blend
90 James Suckling (WS)

We are still seeing wines from the big 2005 vintage, and prices are starting to improve due to the recession.  This moderately priced wine from Graves (for Gravel – a good thing) is only $22 and gets a 90 from Suckling of the Spectator.  He says best after 2010; it probably will be at its best from then to 2012 but can be enjoyed now with some decanting time. – RM

‘…aromas of crushed blackberry and light spices.  Full bodied with just a hint of new wood.  Needs time…’ – JS (WS) 125666

France – Southwest – Malbec

2005 Clos du Chene 100% Malbec, AC Cahors, $15.95

Drink now – 2012
Grapes: Malbec.
Malbec used to be a French grape before becoming renowned as an Argentinean grape.  Cahors is the region for Malbec and they are starting to grow it again.  Why not try one from a great vintage like 2005 that was great for all of France.  RM

‘Opulent damson, vanilla, licorice aroma.  Vibrant fruit on mid palate. Elegant, long…’ – Vintages 129064

Australia – Duo from a good Barossa producer

Barossa Valley is a good producer, and Ebenezer is a small village in the Barossa Valley.  Here are a couple of good single vineyard examples worthy of cellaring 3-5 years.

2004 Barossa Valley Estate Ebenezer Cabernet Sauvignon, $39.95

Drink now – 2014
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon.
94 James Halliday (Aussie wine critic)
‘…complex cabernet, dark chocolate and mocha…luscious black currant fruit…even better than the 05.  Drink until 2014’ – James Halliday 039537

2004 Barossa Valley Estate Ebenezer Shiraz, $39.95

Drink 2011 – 2014
Grapes: Shiraz
93 Harvey Steiman (WS)
‘…firm in texture, aromatically dramatic…smoky roasted coffee…blackberry, black cherry….just needs time…’ – Vintages 650713

Cheers,   Ross

Oregon Pinot Noir dates back to the 1960s. Over the years, Oregon has developed a reputation for Pinot Noir, with some touting it as producing wines on par with Burgundy. Nature has helped out, giving Oregon a cool climate similar to that of Burgundy. Oregon has used some savvy self promotion by holding the annual ‘International Pinot Noir Celebration’, now in its 23rd year. Unfortunately, not too many Oregon Pinots seem to make it into our market. Vintages has brought in a few for this release. If you like Pinot, and Pinot from Burgundy, it is worth giving Oregon Pinot a try. The Willamette Valley is the top area for Pinot, but you may also find some good ones elsewhere. As with Burgundy, Oregon is susceptible to vintage variance. Delicate Pinot, the ‘Heartbreak grape’ is known for susceptibility to weather influences from vintage to vintage. 2006 is rated as a good vintage, with 2007 being weak.

Oregon Pinot

2006 Andrew Rich Cuvee B Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $33.95

Drink now – 2013
Grapes: Pinot Noir
92 Wine & Spirits
Light ruby colour, earthy nose with red berries and white/green peppercorns. Medium bodied and very smooth on the palate – comparable to a lighter Burgundy ¬Village¬ wine. Nice light acidity and very soft tannins on the finish. Delightful now or over next couple of years. 90 -RM
‘…fresh woodland berry scent…spice mix, sassafras, and pink pepper….ripe fruit pulled into line by fine acidity and the clean grip of fruit tannin. For roast chicken’ – Wine & Spirit 127043

Ontario – Chardonnay

2006 Le Clos Jordanne Le Grand Clos Chardonnay. VQA Niagara Peninsula, $65

Drink now – 2014
Grapes: Chardonnay
Clos Jordanne has modeled its wine nomenclature somewhat after that of Burgundy: Village (Village Reserve), Single Vineyard (Clos), and Grand Cru (Grand Clos). Now in their only their 3rd vintage, they are recognized as producing Burgundy quality and styled Pinot and Chardonnay, and have raised the bar for other Ontario wineries. We tasted the Village Reserve and Claystone Terrace Chardonnay at the recent Ontario Tasting:big Chards with nicely balanced oak. Both were very good. The Grand Clos is Jordannes’ take on a Grand Cru Chardonnay, expensive but tasty, barrel aged and good for a bit of bottle ageing. -RM
‘…Pale lemon gold colour…aromas of white flowers and apricots…Flavours of apricots and ripe citrus…hint of peach…silky textured..lively tangy acidity…’’ – Vintages 662601

California – Sauvignon Blanc

2008 Clos du Bois Sauvignon Blanc, North Coast, $16.95

Drink now
Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc
Clos du Bois is a reliable mid range California producer. At $17, this Sauvignon Blanc could be a good value. -RM
‘…easy drinking…grapefruit, lemon-lime, and sweet herb aromas and flavours. Lighter bodied and quaffable…great match for pan-fried fish (shore lunch?) and steamed asparagus’ – Vintages 146258

California Fumé Blanc

2007 Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc, Napa Valley, $22.95

Drink now
Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc
Robert Mondavi coined the term Fumé Blanc for his lightly oaked Sauvignon Blanc from California. It is a bit fuller bodied and flavoured that its unoaked counterpart. -RM
‘…aromas of kiwi, dried grasses and hay, plus a nice layer of oak…refreshing core of acidity…plush mouthfeel…long crisp finish…grilled salmon… Vintages 221887

Chile – Cabernet Sauvignon

2006 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon, Colchagua Valley, Apalta Vineyard

1500 ml $43.95
750 ml $20.05
Drink now -2013
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon
90+ Gordon Stimmell, Toronto Star
90 Jay Miller (WA)
This is big and dark with a big ripe nose of dark berries, cassis, and blackberry, typical of Chilean Cabernet. Very smooth with good mouthfeel. Could age short term but good now. 88 – RM
‘Purple coloured…aromas of cedar, spice box, tobacco, black currant and blackberry. Layered but elegant… enough structure to age 2-3 years.’ JM (WA) 670539

Bordeaux – Left Bank 2005 Cru Bourgeois

2005 Chateau Clarke AC Listrac, $39 Value cellar pick

Drink now – 2020
Grapes: 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot
89 James Suckling (WS)
90-92 Robert Parker (WA)
In 2006 we had the 2001 Clarke at a backyard tasting and it did quite well – soft and smooth with good fruit. Now the 2005 is here and it is worth a try if you like Left Bank Bordeaux. Try a bottle now and put a few away (I have a few in the cellar now) if you like it. It will probably be at its best from about 2012 – 2018. -RM
‘Dark ruby in colour, with licorice, black coffee and ripe berry. Full bodied, with velvety tannins and mineral and berry flavours….lovely texture…bright acidity…’ – JS (WS) 503904

France – Vin de Pays – Viognier

2008 Beauvignac Viognier, AC Vins de Pay d’Oc, Sud de France, $14.95

Drink now – 2010
Grapes: Viognier

Viognier is a wine of Southern France, from the Rhone right through the Languedoc. It is a rich and aromatic white. Pan seared scallops would be a good match. – RM

‘…pretty aromas…apricots, pear, peach and lime…pleasantly round and fruity. Incredible versatile, it can stand on its own or with…grilled cod with lemon and garlic, to seared scallops, to a selection of fine cheeses. – Vintages 525295

Spain – Rioja

2004 LAN Reserva DOC Rioja, $23.95 Great value

Drink now – 2012
Grapes: 80% Tempranillo, 10% Mazuelo, 10% Garnacha.
90 – Tomas Matthews (WS)
#52 on Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines or 2008

The wines of Rioja are typically aged longer than other regions. You can get a good, smooth, medium bodied red that is ready to drink at a reasonable price. As a Reserva, this LAN gets 12 months in oak, then 2 years in bottle before release. Now at 5 years it should be drinking very nicely. – RM

‘A silky texture…flavours of black plum, violet, licorice and smoke…focused, balanced red. Good intensity yet remains vibrant and accessible. – TM (WS) 042929

Cheers, Ross

To order the wines of this vertical and tasting dinner go to: http://www.vintages.com/vmail/bertani.html

Wine tastings generally fall within two categories: vertical and horizontal.  Horizontal tastings are most common with wines of a similar vintage but from different wineries, vineyards, regions, etc.  A vertical tasting consists of several different vintages of the same wine.  Although there may be a small vertical opportunity (2 or 3 vintages) at many tastings, extensive vertical tastings are rare.  When they do take place, a vertical tasting can provide great insight into the difference between individual vintages and how a given wine develops as it ages over time.

Amarone is a big, full bodied wine that is typically capable of significant aging.  Even though some modern styled Amarone may drink well young, many really start to shine after about 10 years.

On May 25 I attended the Bertani structured tasting and dinner with some friends at Mitsura.  The central focus was a tasting of a 14 vintages of the Bertani Amarone della Valpolicella Classico dating from 1962 to 2001 prior to dinner.  There was not enough time to taste, compare, and make notes for all of the wines in the vertical.  However some years stood out, and we were able to get a good sense of how this great wine ages over time.

Unfortunately, we did not have time to taste all the wines in the vertical as thoroughly as we would have preferred.  A couple did stand out, especially the 1962.  At close to 50 years old, one could be skeptical as to how much fruit and flavour would be left.  We did not have the 62 until dinner after the vertical tasting.  We started the vertical with the 1964 and 1967.  The 64 was softer on the nose, with the 1967 jumping out on the nose:

1964: Soft on the nose, more elegant than the 1967.  Licorice, tar, smooth, light on palate, plum.

1967: Jumps out on the nose.  Go with this if you like a bigger wine.  Does taste old – madeirized, oxidized.  More powerful than the 64.  Bitter orange peel –Seville orange, plume and prune.

I preferred the 64 while a good friend who was with us preferred the 67.

Due to time limitations we raced through the rest of the vertical.  The limited notes are due to time, not to anything lacking in the wines. By now we were just picking out highlights or how they differed from one year to the next.

1972: Bitter orange – the better of the two from the 70s.

1975: More bitter

1980: More balanced and smooth – very good.

1981: Bill’s mid age favorite.  Very good.

1986: Bitter with green herb

1998: More fruit, less dark ageing character.

1998 seemed to be the turning point for ageing.  1998 and younger had more young fruit while wines older than this showed less of the youthful fruit character and more darker signs of ageing (and smoothened out).  This fits with my other experiences with Amarone and a general conclusion that most really start to hit their stride at about 10 years.  After that a combination of style (modern vs. traditional), length of barrel ageing, and vintage will determine how well and how long they will age.

Dinner:

We were served several wines throughout the dinner:

2006 Bertani Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC: Very good, light and bright, sharper than the Rosso but more structure.  Great with the gnocchi.

Bertani Catullo Rosso 2006 IGT: Smoother than the Ripasso, but less structure.  More of an easy drinker, a high quality easy drinker.  Smooth and elegant.  Drink now.  This red blend is a step up from $15 quaffers

2005 Amarone Villa Arvedi della Valpolicella DOC:  This is Bertani’s modern styled Amarone, getting about 3 years barrel ageing vs. the 6 years that the Classico gets.  This is an excellent modern styled Amarone and will benefit from short term cellaring (another 3-5 years or more).

1962 Amarone Classico:  BEST OF THE NIGHT! The 62 has the darker older tones of age but also has retained some of its original fruit and character.  This is a beautiful old wine that still shows some of what it had in youth.  It was delightful with our main entrée.  If you are looking for a very old bottle and only want to buy one vintage – buy this one.  This still has a few years to go.  I would love to open a bottle in 2012 when it is 50 years old!

2001 Amarone Classico:  With 6 years of barrel ageing and 1 year of bottle ageing this is the youngest of the Classico Amarone that is available.  It was very good but we could tell that it needs time.  While this could start drinking well at 10-12 years, the evening’s tasting demonstrated that this can be cellared much longer.

2006 Recioto Della Valpolicella Valpantena DOC:  Valpantena is the area, Recioto is the style.  Recioto is the sweet dessert wine from Valpolicella.  The grapes are dried on mats for about 3 months as with Amarone to concentrate the flavour and sugar.  Fermentation is stopped before all the sugar is converted into alcohol.  The result is a wine that is sweeter with less alcohol than Amarone, but with the big fruit flavours.  Not as sweet as Icewine, Recioto is great with berry or chocolate desserts.  We had it with an Italian biscuit that was like an almond shortbread.  The combination was simple but wonderful.  The biscuit/cookie complimented the Recioto beautifully.  The 2006 was great.  I don’t see the need to age Recioto.  It drinks well young and there will be more produced next year.  Order some and enjoy!

CONCLUSIONS:  My thoughts of Amarone hitting its stride at about 10 years were confirmed.  The difference between modern and traditional Amarone is that the modern ones may be at their best from 10-15 years or 10-20 years while the traditional ones may cellar much longer depending on the vintage. I found that once the Classico got to be about 20 years old, the difference seemed to be more due to vintage influences than age.  This wine evolves slowly.  With the very old wines, it was vintage influence plus age to create 3 quite different wines all from the 1960’s and all good.

Bittersweet: Lorenzo Boscaini, Export Manager for Bertani, was on hand to talk about Bertani and its wines.  He described Amarone as both bitter and sweet.  Amarone starts of a very big and intense wine then softens and mellows with age.  The sweetness is an implied sweetness, not from actual sugar content.  The 1962 was the best example of this with hints of sweetness similar to dried fruit or candied fruit.  As the big fruit of youth diminished with age the bitter flavours, like the Seville orange peel of the 1967, show on the palate first.  Then they may be followed with a subtle sweet tone, depending on the age and vintage.

If you are looking for an anniversary bottle for someone’s birth year, this is your best shot at getting something good.  On the other hand, if you would simply like to try something much older – here is your chance.  Pick a year that fits your budget and go for it!

Cheers,   Ross

On Tuesday June 16, the Sip and Savour Ontario tasting was held at the Distillery.  About 30 Ontario wineries showcased their wines including many of this year’s award winners.  The evening is a fun night out for most and an opportunity to sample the very wide range of wines and styles available from Ontario producers.

Every few tables there would be food stations set up by local restaurants to showcase their culinary talents and present some Ontario food/wine pairings.  Many of the pairings were very good.  The food offerings were tiny but tasty.  One memorable pairing was a smoked Georgian Bay whitefish with a Gewurztraminer, mmmm.  Another was an upside down apricot cake with a Sparkling Vidal Icewine (any dessert with apricot, peaches, or mango is likely to be a good match for Vidal).

Here are some highlights and themes I discovered at the tasting:

Whites:     With limited time to cover the large number of wineries and wines, I focused mainly on the reds, and sweet wines.  I tried a few of the whites and listened to the comments of the friends I was with and others at the tasting.  Ontario continues to be good for white wine.  ‘Riesling’ was on the lips of many – both figuratively and literally.  The 2006 Le Clos Jordanne Reserve Chardonnay ($30) was very good.  Unfortunately Peninsula Ridge, which won the gold medal for Chardonnay, was not there.  The best Ontario Chardonnay I recall tasting was an earlier vintage from Peninsula Ridge.  Call Peninsula Ridge sales manager Jonathon Kuhling at 905-563-0900 x 22 or email at jkuhling@peninsularidge.com to see about ordering straight from the winery.

Pinot Noir:    The biggest change I have noticed since going to this tasting starting in 2006 is the improvement in the Pinot Noir.  First of all, I should state my point of reference for Pinot Noir: Burgundy.  In my view, Burgundy produces the best Pinot in the world and is the benchmark against which all others should be measured.  Unfortunately Burgundy is very difficult to navigate as the ownership is so fractionalized, terroir changes from village to village.  Pinot Noir is susceptible to vintage variation.  In Burgundy, terroir can be different in different parts of a single vineyard.  So, if we can find a few good Pinots closer to home, and support local wineries too, that is a good thing.

Many new world Pinots, including those from New Zealand, tend to be bigger and fuller than what I would expect from Pinot but lack the elegance, and smoothness of a very good Burgundy.  Many just come off as big and rough FrankenPinot (wines that have been manipulated to target some new world vision of what the universal palate demands – bad and boring).  Even last year and the year before, I found this with some of the Ontario Pinots, and Gamay Noir.

The good news is that this year the Pinots were much more varietally correct in character:  bright cherry and strawberry with earthy undertones, medium bodied, and smooth.  This was true even for Pinots under $20.  Perhaps we can thank Le Clos Jordanne who actually teamed up with the French to produce Pinot Noir (and Chardonnay) here in Ontario that shows what one would expect from the French counterparts.  The 2004 Claystone Terrace showed signs of this character but was a bit thin (vines were very young).  It is now developing into a very good Pinot Noir.  Other winemakers seem to have followed suit and let the grape show what it can do.

If you have not tried an Ontario Pinot Noir recently, try one at the price level you are used to spending for other wines.

Sweet Wines:    Sweet wines remain the category that Ontario really excels at.  The hidden gems here are the Late Harvest, and a few Icewines.
Late Harvest wine is made by leaving the grapes on the vine past the regular harvest, but not as long as Icewine.  The grapes lose moisture and concentrate but to a lesser degree.  The result are wines with concentrated fruit that can jump out of the glass on the nose, but are not as sweet as Icewine and 1/3 or ¼ the price!  The big discovery here was the 2007 Caroline Cellars Momentum Series Late Harvest Vidal at $18.95 500ml. (See below for notes).

In the Icewine category there are many that are good but do come across as overly sweet or syrupy.  A really great Icewine has an abundance of fruit flavour balanced with acidity that creates intense aromas and flavour without tasting overly sweet.  Royal de Maria, the Icewine specialist www.royaldemaria.com , does this the best.  Others hit the mark from time to time.  The 2007 Riverview Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Icewine was one such wine (see below for notes).  It won the gold medal, deservedly.  Dan Ackroyd had a very good Gewurztraminer Icewine but at $65 for 200ml it was too pricey for what it was.

Wines of Note:

2007 Black Prince Winery Cabernet Franc, Prince Edward County, $15.75

www.blackprincewinery.com Good Value
Soft and good with dark berry fruit.  Easy drinking.  Would pair well with a chocolate dessert as well as usual Cab Franc pairings.

2006 Caroline Cellars Winery Baco Noir, Niagara on the Lake, $10.20

Silver Medal www.carolinecellars.com Excellent Value Direct order only
Deep dark colour, smooth and medium bodied – good easy drinker.

2006 Caroline Cellars Winery Momentum Series Late Harvest Vidal, $18 500ml

www.carolinecellars.com Best Value
Excellent for $18.  Peach and apricot aromas jump out of the glass.  People who didn’t like Icewine liked this wine.  Friends who had just tried the Ackroyd Gewürztraminer Icewine which, was no doubt a great wine, tried this Late Harvest.  They were amazed.  This won out though for value for the money.  Pair with apple pie, or crisp, peach cobbler, or apple/mango crisp with some ginger, lemon, coconut, mmmm.

2007 Inniskillin Wines Sparkling Vidal Icewine, Niagara on the Lake, $59.75

www.inniskillin.com Good Value
Had this with the upside down apricot cake.  It was a great match.  The sparkling Vidal was a nice change.  It is pricey, but not compared to a good Vidal Icewine.

2008 Jackson Triggs Estate Winery Proprietors Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, $13.95

Niagara on the Lake         Excellent Value
www.jacksontriggswinery.com
This was one of the few whites I tried and I was glad that I did.  This was a very aromatic Sauvignon Blanc with peach notes on the nose, smooth on the palate, balanced with good acidity.

2007 Mike Weir Cabernet Merlot, Niagara Peninsula, $18.95

Niagara on the Lake         Good Value
www.mikeweirwine.com
Very good with nice tannic grip.  Flavours of dark berries.  Lived up to expectation after very good 2006.

2009 Pelee Island Winery Pinot Noir Reserve, $14.95

Bronze Medal         Good Value
www.peleeisland.com
Good, light and smooth.  Cherries on the nose.

2009 Pelee Island Winery Monarch Red, $14.95

Silver Medal         Excellent Value
www.peleeisland.com
Marchel Foch, Baco Noir, and Zweigelt…what a combo!  This doesn’t have the tannic structure to age, but for $10 this is a great value and one that should be tried.  Look for the big Monarch butterfly on the label and try some.  Should be a great BBQ wine.

2007 Riverview Cellars Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Icewine, Niagara, $59.95

Gold Medal         Excellent Value    Special order from winery (min 3 bottles)
www.riverviewcellars.com
This Cabernet Sauvignon Icewine stood out from the rest.  The big strawberry nose was followed by strawberry and honey on the palate.  Nice big bright fruit without tasting too sweet.  Pair with cranberry biscotti, or chocolate and berry desserts.  This came at the end of the evening and was a great way to finish. winery@riverviewcellars.com  to order.  This drinks great now and will probably be at its best over the next 3-4 years.  Riverview Cellars is owned by Sam Pillitteri (brother of Gary Pillitteri of Pillitteri Estates Winery) and his wife Lina.   .  As Pillitteri has produced some very good Vidal Icewine and Cab Franc Late Harvest, it is not surprising that Riverview is excelling at the production of dessert wines.  Good dessert wines must run in this family!

Cheers,   Ross

Historically, Malbec is one of the 6 grape varieties used in the blends of Bordeaux. It is also grown in Cahors in South West France, and a few other places. In Bordeaux it is a minor grape, and more prominent in the lesser known wines of Cahors (blended with the Tannat grape). Argentina, particularly in the Mendoza Valley, is where Malbec has gained popularity in recent years. It is a tannic grape yielding deep purple colour, and big dark plumy or red berry fruit flavors. As a single varietal it tends to be tannic but smooth; sometimes with chewy tannins, always deep colour with big fruit- red fruit, plum, or spice. It can range from jammy quaffers to big full bodied and complex wines. Vintages presents Malbec as a good barbeque wine. I agree. It is big enough to stand up to the big flavours of barbequed fare and many fit a barbeque budget.

Argentina – Malbec

2008 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec 2008, Mendoza, $13.95

Drink now
Grapes: Malbec
87 James Molesworth – WS
Mendoza Malbec can be a source of value wines well under the $20 mark.  This one gets a good review from James Molesworth of the Wine Spectator. -RM
‘Ripe, with raspberry and boysenberry fruit laced with mocha and fruitcake…fleshy and round…’ – JM (WS) 640490

2007 Domino del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Malbec, Mendoza, $27.95

Drink now
Grapes: Malbec
90 James Molesworth – WS
Here is a wine that should be a step up the quality ladder from the Altos Las Hormigas.  It gets a similar taste profile in Molesworth’s review.  The difference should be in evident in additional complexity and length.-RM
‘…mocha and spice filled nose, along with creamy raspberry and boysenberry fruit…lengthy pure finish…’ – JM (WS) 079798

Ontario – Viognier    Excellent Value

2007 Peninsula Ridge Viognier, VQA Niagara Peninsula, $14.95

Drink now
Grapes: Viognier
Peninsula Ridge has great whites.  Their wine maker is from Chablis; perhaps this is a factor. I tasted the 2006 Peninsula Ridge Viognier in 2007 and was very impressed: The Viognier was light with crisp acidity and floral notes on the nose.  This would be a good summer sipper.  Very nicely balanced, this stood up to what I would expect from a more expensive Viognier from Southern France (Midi) or Australia, a very good value. -RM
‘…Pale lemon gold colour…aromas of white flowers and apricots…Flavours of apricots and ripe citrus…hint of peach…silky textured..lively tangy acidity…’’ – Vintages 662601

Ontario – Cab/Merlot

2007 Mike Weir Estate Cabernet Merlot, VQA Niagara Peninsula, $18.95

Drink now
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
The Mike Weir Estate wines tend to be good values for ‘buy and drink wines’.  This is a ‘Vintages Essentials’ item so if you enjoy it you can go back for more. -RM
‘…aromas of blackberries, black cherry, roasted bell pepper, Portobello mushrooms, vanilla…medium bodied…velvety smooth black fruit flavors’ – Vintages 000109

Ontario Dessert Wine – Cab Franc Icewine

Lakeview Cellars Cabernet Franc Icewine, VQA Niagara Peninsula, $29.95 200ml

Drink now -2012
Grapes: Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc, a Bordeaux varietal, is typically used in blends.  It is rather rare to see really good Cab Franc as a single varietal – except when it comes to Late Harvest or Icewine.  Then Cab Franc seems to shine with bright strawberry/raspberry flavours, great with berry or chocolate desserts.  Aromas explode from a good one but they can be expensive.  Try this with a special dinner. -RM
‘…aromas of strawberry and ripe cherry leap from the glass…nicely in balance by a seam of bright acidity.  Sip this Icewine well chilled with fresh fruit tarts, strawberry rhubarb pie… Vintages 053397

Chile – Carmenère

2007 Perez Cruz Reserva Limited Edition Carmenère, Maipo Valley, $24.95

Drink now -2013
Grapes: Carmenère
Carmenère is yet another ex-pat wine of Bordeaux that has done well elsewhere.  It is widely planted in Chile but tends to be young drinking (quaffers) generally.  Perez Cruz makes some very good value wines at the $15 level.  They also have a premium line of single varietals at the $25 level.  Try this for an example of a better Carmenère.  -RM
‘Deep purple colour…intensely concentrated…aromas of plum, leather, smoke, rhubarb, and mineral notes.  Dry and full bodied…plush black fruit…grippy tannins…’ Vintages 670539

Australia – Shiraz

2004 Evans & Tate Shiraz, Margaret River, Western Australia, $19.95

Drink now – 2014
Grapes: Shiraz
88 Harvey Steiman (WS)
Margaret River Shiraz tends to be a bit smoother and more elegant compared to the big Shiraz of Southern Australia.  At 5 years, this should be drinking nicely now.  Harvey Steiman suggests that it has the structure to last a few more years in your cellar.  -RM
‘Velvety in texture…mint tinged blackberry and roasted meat flavours…mildly chewy tannins on the long finish…’ – HS (WS) 606905

South Africa

2008 Porcupine Ridge Syrah, WO Coastal Region, $15.00

Drink now
Grapes: Syrah

If you like the smooth, big fruit Shiraz of hot climates this popular South African one could be for you. Previous vintages have been big and spicy with blueberry and notes of black pepper and spice. – RM 595280

Value Bordeaux

This release contains no less than 8 Bordeaux from the stellar 2005 vintage.  Of the 8 offered this time 6 are from lesser prominent AOCs such as Haut Medoc, Cotes de Bourg, Montagne St. Émilion and Cotes de Blaye.  These less prominent AOCs can be the source of good value as they don’t command the premium pricing of the top AOCs such as Pomerol and St. Émilion on the Right Bank and St. Julien, Margaux, Pauillac, and Ste. Estephe on the Left.  Also, many of these wines drink well when young.  Most will be good now or suitable for short term cellaring (another 3-5 years).  Although these are probably save bets, try one bottle and go back for more if you like it.  Here are a couple of Merlot’s.

2005 Chateau Faizeau Vieilles Vignes, AC Montagne St-Emilion, $19.95

Drink now – 2012
Grapes: 100% Merlot
90 Robert Parker (Wine Advocate)

While most Bordeaux wine is blended, there are a few Right Bank wines that are 100% Merlot.  Some of the most expensive, like Petrus, are all Merlot.  At $19.95 this is worth a try for anyone who likes Merlot. – RM
‘…deep ruby/purple…lovely nose of kirsch, licorice, and pain grille.  Full bodied, ripe…….’ RP (WA) 501882

2005 Chateau Gigault Cuvée Viva, AC Premières Cotes de Blaye, $30.00

Drink now – 2015
Grapes: 95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
91 James Suckling (Wine Spectator)

Here is another from the Right Bank that is nearly all Merlot.  James Suckling, who is very reliable on Bordeaux, has rated this Chateau most years since 1998.  It would be very interesting to taste these two side by side and compare. – RM
‘Ripe cherry and berry…fresh herbs, olive, and a hint of coffee and chocolate on the nose… Medium to full-bodied, intense and silky, with loads of fruit pushing through the long finish.’ JS (WS) 500819

Burgundy – 2006

There is no doubt that 2005 is the biggest and most consistent vintage we have seen for Burgundy for some time.  Even moderately priced Bourgogne and Village wines in the $20-25 range from 2005 have been great.  It is a tough act to follow.  For my own cellar, most of those low end 2005s are gone, and I now wait for the better examples to age.  So, while the 2006s may not have the depth and concentration of the 2005s, many will be approachable young, providing some good drinking while waiting for the better 2005s to be ready.  This is the scenario for many regions when a big vintage is followed by a lighter one.  In the case of 2006 I suggest sampling before loading up.  2006 has some good lighter but very elegant and tasty wines with good character, but also some that may be simply a bit thin. Try one bottle first!

2006 Domaine Pouleau Pere & Fils Bourgogne Pinot Noir, AC, $21.95

Drink now – 2010
Grapes: Pinot Noir

Bourgogne is made from grapes from around the region.  In great vintages they present an opportunity to enjoy the vintage at a lower cost.  In vintages that are a bit more variable they reduce the risk of getting a single vineyard or village that didn’t do as well.  At $21 this is a good opportunity to get an impression of the moderately priced 2006 Burgundies that will be suitable for drinking now and over the next year or two.
‘…lovely red fruit, floral nettle and leesy aromas that carry over beautifully onto the palate…’ – Vintages 110270

Italy -Veneto – Ripasso

2006 Terre di Verona Ripasso Valpolicella DOC, $17.95

Drink now – 2011
Grapes: Valpolicella blend

If you are looking for a wine with big flavour, complexity and depth at a moderate price try Ripasso.  Valpolicella is passed over the left over grapes after the making of Amarone.  This one got a Silver Medal from the Decanter World Wine Awards.  Dark fruit and cherry are typical flavour components. – RM
‘Nose open, chocolate, quite rich, dark dried fruits. Balanced, very nice tannins, elegant, good fruits and length’ Silver Medal – Decanter World Wine Awards, 2008 117127

Switzerland – Gamay/Pinot/local varietal blend

2007 Cave de la Cote Morges AOC Grand Viin de la Cotes Vaudoise, $18.95

Drink now – 2011
Grapes: Gamay, Pinot Noir, Gamaret, Garanoir (Gamay and Reichensteiner crosses)

The cool climate and vineyards on hillsides facing the sun produces some very good light and elegant Pinots.  Most stay in Switzerland.  This blend is a rare chance to try what could be very enjoyable.  Vintages recommends it with Salmon.  Chicken dishes would match well too. – RM
‘A sweet-centered wine featuring aromas of red berries, plum, black cherry and citrus.  Dry, fruity, lightly spicy with a good refreshing core of acidity’ – Vintages 123414
Cheers,   Ross

The Great

(good just doesn’t cut it)

• The weather – Saturday was great, wish I could have made it that day too – Sunday the rain held off, and the sky was clear – good view of Toronto from Thirty Bench.
• The Wine – Lovely whites, roses, and even reds that impressed me.
  • Peninsula Ridge – I enjoyed and bought the 2006 McNally Vineyards Syrah Rose, and 2007 Wismer Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc(very smooth, nice citrus flavors), tried the Chardonnay but wasn’t quite buttery enough for my tastes.
  • Thirty Bench – Walked out of there with 2007 Thirty Bench Red, and 2008 Riesling(really could see myself drinking this one weekly), and many reasons to go back.
  • Angel’s Gate – I probably would have bought their Riesling if I hadn’t discovered the one at Thirty, and there were too many wines, and too little time, that I didn’t want to rush through them, will have to return to this one later this summer.
• The Food – Great selection, very tasty, would have loved to have a little from each winery – perhaps a day tasters pass next year.
• The Music – Nice variety
• The Crowds – every winery I went to, people were asking about the graze the bench event, seems like it was a success
• The Audis – R8 and A5…

The Bad

• The hours – it was so much fun, wish it would have started earlier, and ended later.. only had time to enjoy 3 wineries – was hoping to do at least five and ideally all 8. And with some of the wineries shutting down the food/music at 4, left me with no choice other then to go to Copcabana, near the falls.
• The lack of kid friendly food, saw quite a few children running around, and wasted a good half hour making a wendy’s run for some chicken nuggets, would have been nice to have some hotdogs, or corn on the cob, or chicken and fruit…
• Probably would have been a good idea to receive a tasting sheet when you received your glass at the start of the day, to see what each winery was offering and base your day off the type of wines you mind find interesting.

The Ugly

• Wineries charging 8$/glass – 5$ would have been more reasonable.
  You could go inside and taste for free or pretty close to it…
  Or you could buy a glass for 10$ which included a Riedel glass.
  Didn’t seem to make any sense to pay 8$ for just the wine.
  The way we go through wine glasses – it made more sense to just get a new Riedel glass each time, and start a collection.

All in all, looking forward to next year.

Thanks Beamsville!

I’ll list them – promote them, and try to attend them..

May 23 – New Zealand

More and more grape varieties are being produced in New Zealand.  Traditionally, it has been known for Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.  You can sample the expanded selection at the Design Exchange on Thursday May 21.  Go to http://www.nzwine-events.ca/nzwines_content.htm for tickets ($60).  My choice among the New Zealand wines is Pinot Noir.  The NZ Pinots I have tasted seem to combine some good varietal character with new world fruitiness.

New Zealand

2006 Carrick Pinot Noir, Central Otago, South Island, $39.95

Drink now- 2013
Grapes: Pinot Noir
92 Stephen Tanzer (Int’l Wine Cellar)
This pinot gets a very good review from Tanzer, including a couple of comparisons to sites in Burgundy (a good thing).  Try the Carrick for a good New Zealand example, and go back for more if it measures up. -RM
‘Medium red, fresh complex nose offers spicy red fruits, fresh rose and a meaty nuance…Intensely flavored and serious but at the same time lush and sexy…’ – ST (IWC) 919837

2007 Oyster Bay Pinot Noir, Marlborough, South Island, $19.95

Drink now- 2012
Grapes: Pinot Noir
92 Stephen Tanzer (Int’l Wine Cellar)
Oyster Bay makes regular appearances at Vintages.  This one gets wine of the month status, often an indication of a good buy. -RM
‘…ripe and ready to drink…medium ruby colour and a delightful nose displaying aromas of raspberry, strawberry, and cinnamon…excellent value from Marlborough’ – Vintages 590414

Italy – Pinot Grigio

Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio, DOC Valdadige, $16.95        Always available

Drink now
Grapes: Pinot Grigio
This is a good, easy drinking, fresh tasting Pinot Grigio that is a regular item.  It is Vintages #1 seller.  Great on its own, in Risotto, or with chicken dishes.-RM
‘…aromas of fresh green apple, lime and peach that replay on a cleansing finish’ – Vintages 106450

Spain – Rioja

2005 Muga Reserva, DOC Rioja, $24.95    Always available

Drink now -2015
Grapes: 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 10% Mazuelo and Graciano
Muga is popular with lovers of the Spanish wines of Rioja.  Once only available as a limited release item, it is now a ‘Vintages Essential’ and regularly stocked.  This is a good pick for an easy drinking, medium bodied red. -RM
‘…big yet supple fruit flavours, as well as notes of cedar, spice, vanilla, and coconut…’ Vintages 177345

Quebec – Cider

2007 Clos Saint-Denis Bourg Saint-Denis Cider, $15.95

Drink now
Grapes: Apple
Quebec has long been the grower of good apples, and producer of juice and cider (non alcoholic).  In recent years, quality ciders have been brought to market. -RM
‘…cherry, spice, plum and florals.  Round yet balanced…’ Vintages 070599

Oregon – Pinot

2006 Next Pinot Noir, King Estate Winery, $29.95

Drink now -2015
Grapes: Pinot Noir
Oregon is known for its Pinot Noir.  Unfortunately, we do not see many of them here.  This is a chance to try an Oregon Pinot at a reasonable price. -RM
‘Full blown, ripe and rich, with intense and sharply focused dried currant, wild berry and blackberry fruit that’s still fairly tannic at this stage…’ JL (WS) 222877

Bordeaux

1998 Chateau Le Caillou, AC Pomerol, $49.95    Value pick

Drink now
Grapes: Right bank blend
1998 was a good year for the right bank.  This is a lesser known chateau from a top Right Bank appellation in a good year.  At $49, this is very good value given the age and vintage. -RM
‘…aromas of ripe plum, fruitcake, and black cherries complimented by notes of cedar and spice…enjoy with veal tenderloin’ – Vintages 045682

2005 Chateau Grand Mayne, AC Saint-Émillion, $79.00

Drink 2010 – 2017
Grapes: 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
90 James Suckling (WS)
93 Robert Parker, (WA)
Grand Mayne is a mid level St. Émilion that has been getting good reviews, in good vintages, since the mid to late 1990s.  The 2005 will make a good addition to the cellar of Right Bank fans. –RM
‘Classic aromas of blueberries, cedar, vanillin, black currants…Broad, rich, jammy fruit flavours…full bodied, highly extracted style…moderate tannin…’ RP (WA) 501981

Italy – Veneto – Ripasso

2006 Monte Zovo Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso DOC, $19.95    EXCEPTIONAL VALUE!

Drink now – 2014
Grapes: Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara

Monte Zovo has only been in the Ontario market for a few years but is rapidly gaining popularity.  Their Amarone Riserva is the best value for Amarone in its price range ($54).  The Ripasso is made by re-passing Valpolicella over the left over grape pomace that was used for making the Amarone.  The Ripasso has shown bigger flavour and intensity consistently when tasted alongside other Ripasso wines.  Decant an hour or more if drinking now.  It will mellow and improve over the next 4 or so years.  If you like Ripasso’s, load up while it is available! – RM
‘…attractive nose displays rich floral and smoky aromas. Dry, full flavoured with opulent dark fruit…excellent candidate for rich beef or lamb dishes.’ – Vintages 023523

Cheers,   Ross