By Jane Staples
The October 31 release from Vintages features sophisticated Tuscan wines. A food lover’s paradise with centuries of winemaking tradition, Tuscany is a favourite travel destination and the darling of the wine lover’s world. Tuscan wines are diverse, from the well-known Chianti to Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Sassicaia.
Tuscany is blessed with a temperate warm Mediterranean climate that provides ideal growing conditions for a wide range of varietals. The signature grape is Sangiovese, but Cabernet Sauvignon has been grown there since the 18th century.
Super Tuscans such as the Sangiovese and Cabernet-based Tignanello celebrate this delicious blend. Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah are now also grown with great success. Consistent quality and craftsmanship are the hallmarks of Tuscan wines.
This release also features several exciting offerings from Chile. Well-known for their Carmenère, Chile has proven itself as an excellent producer of a diverse range of wines from Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, to Pinot Noir, Carignan and Syrah. Chile is also a world leader in making organic wines.
Now that autumn has settled in, it’s time for whiskey lovers to build a fire in the fireplace and indulge with a glass of rare single malt. You’ll find a selection of premium gems in this release.
October 31st is a great day for kids – and a great day for adults to visit Vintages for their treats, too!
Ruffino Lodola Nuova 2011 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Tuscany DOCG, Italy
A delicious Sangiovese blend with a little Cab Sauv and Merlot. Aromatic with inviting dark fruit and floral notes, hints of chocolate, leather and baking spices, unfolding into a full-bodied palate and elegant finish. Smooth, well-integrated, velvety and totally satisfying.
Alcohol: 14%
Sweetness: Extra-dry
750 ml
Drink: 2015-2019
Price: $24.95
Score: 91
Verbena Brunello Di Montalcino 2009
Tuscany DOCG, Italy
Made from 100% Sangiovese grapes. Dark garnet red with ripe cherries and dark chocolate on nose. On the rich palate, cherries, spice, leather, mocha and earthy notes lead to an elegant layered finish.
Alcohol: 15%
Sweetness: Dry
750 ml
Drink: 2015-2020
Price: $39.95
Score: 91
Toro de Piedra Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2014
Maule Valley, Chile
This full-bodied Chilean Chard tastes just right! Delicious buttered toast, pineapple and slight citrus on the nose, repeated on a rich, creamy palate with vanilla and a butterscotch/ lemon finish.
Alcohol: 14%
Sweetness: Dry
750ml
Drink: 2014-2017
Price: $17.95
Score: 92
The Balvenie Doublewood 17-Year-Old Single Malt
Scotland
Rich amber colour. Aged 17 years in two distinct casks, Bourbon and Sherry, which added unique flavours, thus the name “Doublewood”. Aromatic peaty, vanilla nose and a palate with lots of smoke, peat, honey, sweet spices and toffee. Satiny smooth, long rich toffee finish. Wonderful for those stormy winter nights and better than any cough medicine!
Alcohol: 43%
750 ml
Drink: Now
Price: $200.95
Posted with permission of the LCBO.
