In response to our latest readership survey, we’re posting early reviews of wines coming out in the LCBO this fall.
You’ll find tasting notes and scores for New World wines coming out in the next Vintages Releases below. You’ll find all wines here.
To find a wine quickly, click on the “CRTL” and “F” buttons on your keyboard, then search by a simple keyword in the open blank that appears. One unique word is often best, for example: Homestead
Please note that prices are subject to change and will be updated when the LCBO publishes its final prices for each release. Please let us know if any vintages noted below are incorrect or there are any typos.
Cheers,
P.S. January reviews will be posted in mid-October.
Use these links to jump to reviews for:
December 10 Vintages Release
Note: This also contains some December 1 Classic Catalogue wines.
Related Articles and Media Clips
- Wine Book and Bottle Pairings for the Holidays (CTV)
- Food and Wine Books with Wines Matched for Gifts (CTV)
- Wine and Books: Holiday Gifts (Breakfast Television)
- Best Turkey Wine for Holiday Dinner? Not One But Many Wines
- How do You Pick a Great Gift Wine? 5 Tips for Festive Sips
- Pair Special Wines with the People on Your Holiday Gift List
- How to Sabre Champagne + Sparkling Wine Primer (CTV)
- Sparkling Wine from Cava to Cremant: Festive Fizz
- Sparkling Wine for New Year’s Eve versus Champagne
- Size Does Matter > Large Format Bottles For the Holidays
- 10 Best Sparkling Wines to Buy Now + 5 Surprising Facts about Bubbly
Note: You’re welcome to quote any of the tips and content
above as long as you cite the web site nataliemaclean.com.
December 10 Wine Reviews
White Wine
La Crema Chardonnay 2014, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: Sonoma Coast vineyards enjoy a long, cool growing season due to the moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean, and its fogs and winds that blow inland. This is perfect for slowly ripening grapes to develop complex flavours and nuances without lots of sugar that translates to heavy alcohol. Classic Californian Chardonnay with toast, oak and green apple on the nose. Full-bodied, and generously layered. Generous flavours of pear and peach on the palate with a long, dry finish and a hint of wild white flowers in a spring rain. Perfect for roast chicken or mild curries. Chardonnay food pairings: pasta, hodge podge, lobster with mayonnaise, roasted chicken. Drink: 2016 – 2020 962886 13.9% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. April 2016.
Far Niente Estate Chardonnay 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: Lovely balance in this classic Californian Chardonnay, with green apple and toasted almond aromas. Nice acidity and a mouth-filling richness on the mid-palate. Pair with roast turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: steamed mussels, lemon-herbed chicken, pan-fried trout. Drink: 2016 – 2021 539130 14% XD 750 mL $99.95 Score: 93/100. June 2015.
Wakefield Wines Chardonnay 2015, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: This Chardonnay over-delivers on the price-quality ratio. Full-bodied with green apple and toasty oak aromas. Perfect for roast chicken. Lovely melon and pear notes on the finish of this Australian Chardonnay. Chardonnay food pairings: turkey burgers, crab cakes, chicken breast, lobster in butter sauce, cheese. Drink: 2016 – 2018 711556 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. July 2016.
McManis Family Vineyards Chardonnay 2015, River Junction, California, United States: A medium-bodied, balanced California Chardonnay with soft acidity, and attractive flavours of peach and pear. Finishes with pineapple and buttered toast. This winery is Certified Sustainable, practising farming and winemaking methods that have a lower impact on the environment. Pair with salmon casserole. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2016 – 2018 265983 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. August 2016.
Villa Maria Estate Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A juicy, mouth-watering Sauvignon Blanc from Villa Maria. This is classic Marlborough SB, with aromas of chives, nettle, lemon and herbs. The 2015 was one of the strongest in history for the region and it shows in this wine. Pair pan-fried white fish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Thai green curry fish, shellfish, chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad. Drink: 2016 – 2018 974527 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Cathedral Cellar Kmv Chardonnay 2014, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: A full-bodied, generous round South African Chardonnay with aromas of butterscotch and smoke. Well-priced and delicious. Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: cranberry braised partridge, pork filet au gratin with green herbs, grilled chicken breast with cranberry and red currant sauce. Drink: 2016 – 2018 328559 14.7% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. September 2016.
Cloudy Bay Vineyards Chardonnay 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Toasted almond and hazelnut on the nose, with green apple vibrancy, gorgeous balance. I thought I loved this winery’s Sauvignon Blanc best but now it’s a toss up. Try this with pork tenderloin. Chardonnay food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast chicken, pan-fried trout with fresh lemon juice. Drink: 2016 – 2020 359513 14% XD 750 mL $36.95 Score: 93/100. September 2016.
Robert Mondavi Fume Blanc 2015, Napa Valley, California, United States: An attractive smoky nose with some lemon and lime vibrancy. Crisp and clean on the palate. Long finish. Medium-bodied. Perfect for halibut in a beure blanc sauce. Fume Blanc food pairings: chicken salad, pork tenderloin, seafood, barbecued lobster. Drink: 2016 – 2019 221887 13.9% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Santa Carolina Gran Reserva Chardonnay 2013, Casablanca Valley, Chile: This Chilean white wine punches well above its price point. Rich, toasted almonds wrap around a core of green apple vibrancy in this Chilean white wine made from Chardonnay grapes. Balanced and luscious, with loads of hedonistic happiness. This is an amazing party wine and it also works well for dinner parties. Finished with buttered toast and apple-nut aromas. A terrific and well-priced Chilean Chardonnay with toasty oak, tropical tree fruit and green apple aromas. Pair with veal. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, roast pork, prawn bisque, cheese fondue, stuffed chicken breast, roast turkey. Drink: 2016 – 2019 928580 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. September 2016.
Chateau Ste Michelle 14 Hands Chardonnay 2014, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Gorgeous vanilla spice florals on the nose of this Washington Chardonnay. Lots of freshness on the palate along with tropical fruit. This varietal tier (wines made from a single variety or grape) is the premium line for 14 Hands as compared to the blends like Hot to Trot. The horses on the label are a tribute to the wild horses that once roamed the Hose Heaven Hills wine region. They were approximately 14 hands tall: small but sturdy and strong, known for their unbridled strength and freedom. Chardonnay food pairings: steamed mussels, lemon-herbed chicken, pan-fried trout. Drink: 2016 – 2019 468546 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. September 2016.
Dirty Laundry Vineyards Not So Knotty Chardonnay 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: This fresh, crisp BC white wine made from Chardonnay grapes and is unoaked, thus the reference to “Not so knotty” (wood). Reminds me more of fresh linens on a spring day than Dirty Laundry with aromas of lime and lemon zest. Pair with crossing off the last item on your chores list and fresh seafood. Chardonnay food pairings: stuffed chicken roasted, beef bourguignon, pork tenderloin, ravioli served in an Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2016 – 2019 353144 13.9% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016.
Kim Crawford Favourite Homestead Pinot Gris 2014, Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A fresh and racy New Zealand white wine made from Pinot Gris grapes. Small Parcels refers to the hand selected small lots from the vineyards as chosen by winemaker Anthony Walkenhorst. Pair with fresh seafood. Pinot Gris food pairings: roasted veal, pork tenderloin, roast turkey , seafood, pasta with cream sauce. Drink: 2016 – 2019 415463 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Sterling Chardonnay 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: Big, bold, buttery Californian Chardonnay in all its glory. Layered and rich and offering so much pleasure. Aromas and flavours of tropical fruit and freshly baked bread. Try this with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: shellfish, seafood salads, baked brie and pear. Drink: 2016 – 2019 330233 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. August 2015.
Tahbilk Marsanne 2015, Nagambie Lakes, Central Victoria, Australia: Lemon-yellow essence with some dry honey and white peach on this Australian white wine made from the lesser-known Marsanne grape, traditional to the Rhone Valley. Wonderful white that will get you out of that Chardonnay rut you’ve been in. Rhone grapes do very well in Australia’s Victoria region due to the climate and soils there. Pair with veal. Marsanne food pairings: crab cakes, pork tenderloin, cheese. Drink: 2016 – 2019 117945 12.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. June 2016.
Chateau De Sancerre Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Loire A.C., France: This Sauvignon Blanc from the Old World has some lemon and smoke notes. Pair with fresh seafood. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: pan-fried fish in lemon beurre, poached white fish in white wine sauce, oysters Rockefeller. Drink: 2016 – 2018 340893 12.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. September 2016.
Vina Montgras Amaral Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Leyda Valley, Chile: A terrific, delicious Chilean white wine for the money. Clean notes of lime and lemon, with a citrus lift on the finish. The Sauvignon Blanc grapes from the cool-climate Chilean region of the Leyda Valley that borders and is moderated by the Pacific Ocean. Pair with shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: steamed mussels, lemon-herbed chicken. Drink: 2016 – 2017 367292 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. September 2016.
Wynns Coonawarra Estate Chardonnay 2015, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied Australian Chardonnay with lovely replays of green apple, smoke and butter across the palate. Terrific stonefruit on the finish along with some toasty oak in this cool-climate wine. Terrific minerality and racy acidity for food. Pair with seared tuna or scallops. Chardonnay food pairings: basil pesto, prawn bisque, cheese fondue, stuffed chicken breast. Drink: 2016 – 2020 468728 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
J Lohr Winery October Night Chardonnay 2014, Monterey County, California, United States: A buttery, full-bodied Californian Chardonnay with aromas of tangerine spice. Mouth-watering acidity with a good finish. The grapes are picked at night-time, to preserve their freshness and acidity, thus the name. The Californian Chardonnay grapes for this wine are grown on cobble-laden soils in the Arroyo Seco region of Monterey County, a cool climate coastal district. Perfect to pair with roasted turkey or chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: marinated lemon herb chicken breast grilled on the barbie. Drink: 2016 – 2020 225375 14.9% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016.
Red Wine
Los Maquis Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley, Chile: Black fruit, tar and lots of toasty oak on this Chilean red wine. Full-bodied and smooth with more black fruit and oak on the palate. The 2013 vintage of the Maquis Cabernet Sauvignon was matured in oak barrels for 10 months. Decant for 1 hour and enjoy with prime rib. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: braised beef short ribs, barbeque venison long ribs, meat salad. Drink: 2016 – 2019 311720 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. September 2016.
Rodney Strong Wine Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, California, United States: Flavours of blackberry, cedar brush, blackcurrant, and vanilla oak on the nose of this classic Californian red wine, with a full-bodied weight on the palate. Firm tannins. A balanced cool-climate Californian Cabernet, with aromas of cassis and blackcurrant. Nicely integrated oak. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a pepper steak or gourmet hamburgers. Finishes with notes of cocoa and wood spice. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pulled pork, burgers, hard cheese, grilled rare steak, smoked beef ribs. Drink: 2016 – 2021 226944 13.8% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Goats do Roam Goatfather 2014, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: Juicy purple and black plum aromas with dark spice. Happy, straight-up pleasure in a glass. Full-bodied, but not heavy. This wine is a non-traditional blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Barbera and Nebbiolo grapes. Some terrific notes of cherry and blackberry on the finish. I love this producer’s sense of humour as evident by the name of this wine and others. Pair with roast goat. Food pairings: meat lovers’ pizza, chicken wings, grilled burgers, sausages. Drink: 2016 – 2019 11072 14.6% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. September 2016.
Cloudy Bay Vineyards Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: This medium-bodied New Zealand red wine is satin smooth and tickles the senses. Juicy, fleshy bright cherries and dark chocolate dance across your senses with this pinot noir. Ultra-supple and sensuous. Amazingly great price for a flagship wine. Cloudy Bay put New Zealand on the wine map for its Sauvignon Blanc, but this Pinot Noir holds its own and deserves its own shining place in the wine world. Please make me some seared tuna and top up my glass. Pinot noir is New Zealand’s benchmark red wine and it shows why in this wine. Highly recommended. Pinot Noir food pairings: planked salmon, roast beef, turkey, pork tenderloin, coq au. Drink: 2016 – 2021 598813 13% D 750 mL $46.95 Score: 94/100. August 2016.
Penfolds Bin 138 Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A structured and balanced blend of dark fruit, smoke and a touch of spice on the finish. Elegant and full-bodied, but not heavy. This is a classic Australian GSM blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre grape, each bringing their own structural component and complexity to the final wine. Some dark spice on the finish. Pair with rare meats. Highly recommended. Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre food pairings: roast beef, brisket, pulled pork sammies. Drink: 2016 – 2018 468637 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 93/100. November 2015.
Stags’ Leap Winery Ne Cede Malis Petite Sirah 2012, Stags’ Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United States: A gloriously well-crafted Californian red wine with seductive aromas of black fruit on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, rich, deep and concentrated red wine blend of 85% Petite Sirah and 15% of a mixed, “field” blend of Carignan, Mourvèdre, Muscat, Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache, Syrah and Peloursin. Pair with game dishes. Petite Sirah food pairings: rib roast, pork long ribs on the barbeque, stuffed veal breast roast. Drink: 2016 – 2019 589572 14.2% D 750 mL $89.95 Score: 95/100. November 2015.
Austin Hope Winery Hope Family Vineyard Syrah 2013, Paso Robles, California, United States: A beautifully balanced Californian Syrah that offers seductive aromas of black fleshy plums and pepper. Nicely balanced acidity and tannins for structure. Gorgeous depth and concentration of fleshy black berries and fruit. This is so darn tasty, just try it with a rare steak. Syrah food pairings: spicy gourmet sausages, roast beef with roast potatoes. Drink: 2016 – 2020 686121 15.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. March 2016.
Primus The Blend 2014, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Chocolate and mocha from oak aging with some sweet blackberry flavours. Pair with hamburgers and relish. This full-bodied Chilean red wine is just dripping with fleshy berry flavor and plums with some real vibrancy and lift on the mid-palate. This wine is a blend of about a third cabernet sauvignon, a third syrah, and the balance split between merlot and carmenere grapes. Superb craftsmanship; great value. Judicious use of oak has a toasty weave throughout the wine. Balanced acidity and polished tannins, but the dark fruit power and energy leads in the glass. Pair with prime rib. Food pairings: rib roast, pork long ribs on the barbeque, stuffed veal breast roast. Drink: 2016 – 2019 712463 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. September 2016.
Joel Gott Wines 815 Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: Juicy and savoury with enticing herbs and meaty notes mid-palate. Very intriguing. Full-bodied and smooth with some dark spices on the finish along with cedar brush. Highly recommended. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: chicken cacciatore, beef stew, strong cheeses, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2016 – 2020 444059 13.9% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. March 2016.
Francis Ford Coppola Director’s Cut Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A well-made robust red with black fruit and mocha notes. Yes, this is from the producer of The Godfather and other box office hits. The winery is well worth a visit when you’re in Napa next time. Pair with ghoulash and the movie Dracula. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork tenderloin, spaghetti with meatballs and sausage, roast lamb, game meats, slow-roasted beef. Drink: 2016 – 2020 61002 14% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. August 2016.
J Lohr Winery Falcon’s Perch Pinot Noir 2014, Monterey County, California, United States: Sweet chocolate on the nose and palate with fleshy blackberries and lots of toasty oak. Full-bodied and supple. The Valdiguié grape adds plushness to this blend. Pair this wine with grilled pork chops. Pinot Noir food pairings: coffee-rubbed steak, duck, veal. Drink: 2016 – 2020 361717 13.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. September 2016.
Zonte’s Footstep Baron Von Nemesis Shiraz 2015, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Fantastic for the price! Full-bodied and juicy with layers of mouth-watering flavours: blackberry pie and black plums. Smooth and terrific. Loaded with toasty oak. Dark purple hue with accented highlights of lavender around the edges. Aromas of black cherry, cassis and dried herbs on the finish. Great party wine. Decant 2 hours. Pair with grilled meats. Shiraz food pairings: grilled meats, vegetables, fajitas. Drink: 2016 – 2020 212936 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. June 2016.
Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz 2015, Australia: A hefty Australian red wine with a great right hook on the palate! Despite high alcohol it still comes together and tastes balanced within the context with this towering wine. Black fruit, smoke and rich fruitcake aromas on the nose. Full-bodied and supple with generous layers of flavour. Loaded with black fruit, the 2015 vintage of The Boxer Shiraz offers blackberry jam and dark spice on the finish. Shiraz food pairings: steak enchilada casserole, deep dish pizza and cheese pie, pan-fried goose breast with watercress. Drink: 2016 – 2020 246595 16% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 93/100. September 2016.
Domaine Consta Lazaridi Amethystos Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Agiorgitiko 2012, Drama P.G.I., Greece: A juicy, full-bodied Greek red wine with purple and black plums notes on the notes and palate. Firm tannins. This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes with the traditional local Agiorgitiko grape which adds vibrancy and lift to the wine. Pair with wild boar. Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Agiorgitiko food pairings: gourmet hamburger, braised short ribs, vegetable stew. Drink: 2016 – 2018 724831 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. November 2015.
Chateau Ste Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: This terrific Washington Cabernet blends French sensibilities with New World energy and vigour. Classic Cabernet with blackberry and cassis, mocha-espresso aromas from the oak and very balanced. Full-bodied and smooth. This Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet also includes small amount of Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Syrah in the blend. Pair with a pepper steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: lamb Bolognese, grilled New York strip loin, barbecued ribs in sauce, hard cheese, hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2016 – 2019 269357 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Chateau Ste Michelle 14 Hands Merlot 2014, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: The vines for this terrific Merlot are planted at the southern limit of the Yakima Valley in the foothills of Washington state’s Horse Heaven Hills wine region. This wine is bursting with fleshy ripe black plums, cherry and mocha. The horses on the label are a tribute to the wild horses that once roamed the Hose Heaven Hills. They were approximately 14 hands tall: small but sturdy and strong, known for their unbridled strength and freedom. Pair with grilled pork chops. Merlot food pairings: grilled pork chops, Margherita pizza, roast chicken. Drink: 2016 – 2018 463000 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016.
Seresin Estates Ltd Momo Pinot Noir 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A juicy, smooth New Zealand red wine, with pleasingly tart and vibrant cherry aromas and flavours in this pinot noir. Supple and medium- to almost full-bodied. Very tasty. Mouth-watering acidity is fantastic for a range of dishes, from planked salmon to roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: beet and goat cheese salad, mushroom risotto, planked salmon, frittata, coq au vin. Drink: 2016 – 2020 163972 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. June 2016.
Tarapaca Gran Reserva Pinot Noir 2013, Leyda Valley, Chile: Cherry-berry fleshy ripe sweetness o the nose and palate. Round, supple and almost full-bodied. Pair with grilled seafood. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal chops, grilled duck sausages, pork tenderloin, barbecued lamb sirloin, grilled carrot mash and spring greens purée. Drink: 2016 – 2019 404210 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. September 2016.
Wakefield Wines Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Juicy, full-bodied, rich and delicious on the palate. This robust red wine at a great price offers tremendous value and bang for your buck. Attractive aromas of mint and blackberry on the nose. It finishes nicely with black plum, espresso and cloves. Black in hue with aromas to match of dark fruit, tar and smoky oak. Pair with juicy hamburgers. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, juicy rare steak, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger. Drink: 2016 – 2020 744235 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Small Gully Mr. Blacks Concoction Shiraz Viognier 2013, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Juicy, full-bodied and satisfying with black fruit, smoke and toasty oak. Supple with lots of layers of pleasure. Pair with grilled meats. Shiraz Viognier food pairings: lamb burgers topped with cheddar, pepper steak topped with sautéed mushrooms. Drink: 2016 – 2018 222059 15.9% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016.
La Posta Angel Paulucci Malbec 2015, Ugarteche, Mendoza, Argentina: Loaded with toasty oak and black, tarry fruit. Mocha and coffee on the nose of this full-bodied red wine, followed by black plums on the palate and a tannic grip. Decant 1-2 hours. Try it with hamburgers. Malbec food pairings: pepperoni pizza, beef, turkey, hamburgers, cheddar. Drink: 2016 – 2019 75515 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. September 2016.
Dandelion Vineyards Lionheart Of The Barossa Shiraz 2014, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: This full-bodied red wine has lip-smacking delicious aromas and flavours of black and purple fruit. Smooth and supple. Love the fact that this big shiraz is not filtered, giving us the full-on flavour experience. Try is with lamb and rosemary. Shiraz food pairings: potato, chickpea and lentil green curry, saffron potato cakes, roast rosemary lamb. Drink: 2016 – 2022 167189 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. September 2016.
Henschke Mount Edelstone Vineyard Shiraz 2012, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: I closed my eyes when I breathed in this wine’s aromas. I love that. Gorgeous lifted aromas of blackberries and some spritely voice singing in the middle of a dark forest… a shaft of sunlight cuts through the trees. Rise up on the notes, turn your face to the sun. Full-bodied and richly layered. Perfect for forgiveness. Shiraz food pairings: rosemary leg of lamb roast, lamb shanks in red wine sauce, rare rib steak. Drink: 2018 – 2023 718601 14% XD 750 mL $215.00 Score: 97/100. August 2015.
Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel 2014, Lodi, California, United States: A gorgeously rich and full-bodied Californian Zinfandel from one of the state’s top producers. Aromas of black plums, smoke and dark spice. The old vines on which the grapes grow are low yielding and as a result concentrate the flavours in these tiny berries to create a flavoured-packed wine. Smooth and perfect for barbecued meats. Zinfandel food pairings: wild boar roast, grilled venison steak, roast pheasant. Drink: 2016 – 2021 942599 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. September 2016.
Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon Grenache Cinsault Viognier 2014, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: I recommend the Chocolate Block every vintage as it’s a consistently great wine! This full-bodied red wine is a blend of mostly shiraz grapes and some grenache, cabernet sauvignon, cinsault and a splash of viognier grapes. It’s savoury, complex and delicious: wow! Cassis, blackberry and cedar forest. Meaty and enticing, full-bodied wonderful with a concentrated weave of anise, cigar box, pepper and meaty notes. Extremely juicy and mouthwatering in a food-happy kind of way. Balanced and delicious: this is a terrific red to red if you’re not familiar with South African wines, or even if you are. Highly recommended. Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon Grenache Cinsault Viognier food pairings: roast chicken Marbella, western bbq chicken, vegetable chili. Drink: 2016 – 2019 129353 14.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Cathedral Cellar Triptych Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: This WO-designated wine is smooth, smoky and delicious with full-bodied layers of fleshy black plums. Amazingly great price for the quality. This wine is a blend that leads with cabernet sauvignon, but also includes shiraz and merlot grapes. Just enough toasty oak aging to bring this whole delicious package together. Good finish. Try it tonight with meat lovers pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast beef, porchetta, slow-cooked venison ribs. Drink: 2016 – 2019 53124 14.4% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. September 2016.
Stonestreet Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A full-bodied and complex Californian red wine with aromas of wild tart blackberry and cedar brush. Finishes with a lick of dark spice. Pair with rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops. Drink: 2016 – 2021 435099 14.5% XD 750 mL $52.95 Score: 92/100. March 2016.
Thorn Clarke Shotfire Quartage Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Love this robust Australian red wine! Gorgeously rich and full-bodied with layers of voluptuous black fruit flavours and mint. Velvet caress on the tongue. Top me up! Try it tonight with a juicy, rare steak. Pair this robust red wine with a New York strip loin steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled sirloin steak with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, vine leaves stuffed with minced sirloin and baked in tomato sauce. Drink: 2016 – 2020 24091 14% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016.
San Pedro 1865 Single Vineyard Carmenere 2014, Maule Valley, Chile: Wow, this single vineyard Carmenere rocks! Carmenere is arguably the flagship red wine of Chile. It has it all: concentrated, rich black fruit flavours and depth, yet it’s supple and smooth with a long finish. Velvet on the palate, lingering in the mind. The wines from San Pedro’s 1865 line come from its own vineyard planted with a specific variety. The Carmenere comes from the winery’s property in the Maule Valley, with rolling hillside vineyards averaging 20 years of age and planted in alluvial soil with angular stones to control plant vigour. This robust red wine finishes with notes of cassis and dried tobacco. Great balance and depth. Try it with a rack of lamb tonight. Highly recommended. Carmenere food pairings: venison, ratatouille, rabbit stew, bison steaks. Drink: 2016 – 2019 249201 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. June 2016.
Zuccardi Serie A Malbec 2014, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A full-bodied, rich red Argentine wine with aromas and flavours black plum, pepper and dark spices on the finish. This muscular wine will elbow its way in beside a rare steak or prime rib. It’s strong, but not overpowering like the ideal dinner companion conversation. Malbec is Argentina’s flagship red wine grape, and this producer excels at the style of wine. Pair with grilled meats. Malbec food pairings: pepperoni pizza, radicchio, lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2016 – 2019 167619 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. September 2016.
J Lohr Winery Los Osos Merlot 2014, Paso Robles, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian red wine made from Merlot grapes offering aromas of black fruit, dark chocolate and lots of toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Merlot food pairings: veal Porterhouse, grilled lamb, grilled pork chops, Tandoori-flavored dishes. Drink: 2016 – 2019 27516 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. September 2016.
L.A. Cetto Petite Sirah 2013, Baja, California, Mexico: Black plum and prunes on the nose, full-bodied with some fleshy black plum on the palate. Great price for this robust Mexican wine. Pair with hamburgers. Petite Sirah food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak, black bean soup, cheese. Drink: 2016 – 2017 983742 14% D 750 mL $12.25 Score: 87/100. September 2016.
Saved 2013, California, United States: This robust, smooth, supple Californian red wine is a blend of about one quarter Merlot, then descending amount of Malbec, Syrah, Zinfandel, Sauzao, Petit Verdot, Petite Sirah, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for the 2013 vintage. Select parcels from vineyards in Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara County and Dry Creek were picked blended separately to preserve their unique character. The wine was aged in 30% new French oak barrels for 16 months before blending. It offers enticing aromas of fleshy blackberries and plums, cedar forest and black cherry. This is a collaboration between one of the world’s most famous tattoo artists, Scott Campbell, and winemaker, Clay Brock, who grew up in Napa Valley and is also Director of Winemaking at Wild Horse Winery & Vineyards. This particular wine is named after Scott’s famous SAVED tattoo studio in Brooklyn New York and his work is etched on the bottle’s front label. This wine finishes with luscious berry flavour. Pair with a pepper steak or roast beef. Food pairings: pepper steak, roast beef, sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2017 – 2021 417378 15% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Belle Glos Las Alturas Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California, United States: Sweet cherry-berry aromas and flavours on the palate. Vanilla oak spice, smoke and raspberry compote and preserves on the finish. Full-bodied Californian Pinot Noir. This is one of four single vineyard wines from this winery and considered the most robust of all four. Gotta love that red melted wax seal: makes a great gift package. Pair with grilled chicken. Lots of mocha and dark chocolate and caramel on the finish from oak aging. Pinot Noir food pairings: pork, beef carpaccio, mushroom and leek risotto. Drink: 2016 – 2019 212076 14.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Two Hands Wines Bella’s Garden Shiraz 2014, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied, deeply concentrated Australian Shiraz with attractive aromas of black plum and blackberry. Mouth-filling and delicious. Pair with roast beef. Shiraz food pairings: marinated pepper steaks, burgers with blue cheese, grilled pork chops, Muscovy duck. Drink: 2016 – 2020 636407 15.8% D 750 mL $63.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Vinedos Emiliana Coyam Carmenere Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Mourvèdre Malbec 2012, Colchagua Valley, Chile: This beautifully structured, full-bodied Chilean red wine offers complex aromas of pencil led, smoke, cassis, wild blackberry and wild violets. Superbly balanced with great structure. Pair with rare filet mignon. Carmenere Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Mourvèdre Malbec food pairings: roast leg of venison with sautéed mushrooms and sweet onions, roast pheasant, fried wild rabbit on toast. Drink: 2016 – 2018 63891 14.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. November 2015.
Montes Limited Selection Carmenere 2014, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Rich, black cherry liqueur aromas and flavours made this full-bodied Chilean red wine so seductive. Ultra-plush and voluptuous. Smooth and satisfying sensual pleasure. There’s a terrific spice-infused finish wrapped in cedar smoke. Try this with pork tenderloin. Carmenere food pairings: hamburger, ribs in a rich sauce, spicy dishes, tomato-based dishes, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2016 – 2019 256685 14.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. September 2016.
Cliff Lede Cliff Lede Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied and complex with classic aromas of cassis, blackberry and smoke. Although this wine is primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, there are also the traditional Meritage grapes in the blend, including Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Great cellar potential. There’s a terrific concentration of black fruit flavour through the heart of this wine, yet it’s superbly balanced and complex. Give it some cellar time, but when you do open it, decant for 1-2 hours. Perfect for when you cash in your Google stock. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: chicken, pork tenderloin, pasta, soup, beet salad. Drink: 2017 – 2022 14217 14.9% XD 750 mL $99.75 Score: 94/100. June 2016.
Peter Lehmann Wines Layers Shiraz Tempranillo Mourvèdre Grenache 2014, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A spectacular, robust Australian red wine at a terrific price! The Shiraz in the blend (thus the name layers), provides the muscular structure and tannin plus black plum, while Tempranillo adds some tarry character. Grenache adds dark floral and a racy exotic texture. This wine is aged for 12 months in 10-year oak barrels. Pair with rare steak. Shiraz Tempranillo Mourvèdre Grenache food pairings: rare steak, rib roast, barbequed pork long ribs. Drink: 2016 – 2021 138883 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. March 2016.
St. Francis Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Sonoma County, California, United States: A full-bodied, savoury Californian Cabernet with aromas of campfire and smoke from toasty oak aging. Juicy and delicious. Pair with barbecued meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled meats, wild mushroom and onion risotto, meat salad. Drink: 2016 – 2021 671164 14.6% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. September 2016.
Trapiche Terroir Series Ambrosia Vineyard Malbec 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: The grapes for this magnificent Argentine red wine are sourced from vineyards in Gualtallary, Tupungato and Mendoza planted at an altitude of 1307 metres above sea level in mostly sandy soil and 30% calcaire gravel. The grapes are carefully hand harvested, with bunch and berry selection and de-stemming. Fermentation is done with wild native yeast and maceration takes place in small concrete vats over 25 days, at 26-28ºC with a natural malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged for 18 months in new French oak barrels with bottle aging of another 12 months. This Malbec offers classic aromas of black fruit, thyme, rosemary, and anise. Great mineral depth with firm tannins and a long finish. Pair with game meats and hard cheeses. Highly recommended. Malbec food pairings: hard cheeses, grilled game meats, roast pheasant. Drink: 2016 – 2021 402941 15.5% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 94/100. March 2015.
Dessert Wine
Benjamin Bridge Vineyards Nova 7 Sparkling Dessert 2014, Nova Scotia, Canada: This is such a gorgeous wine! Every time I taste it, it’s like coming back to an old friend whose intelligence and wit I admire, but more importantly, just feels so comfortable. Honeysuckle, honey dew and melon yet not cloyingly sweet. This lovely wine is actually refreshing with its slight effervescence. I’m selfishly not wanting to this with anything and just drink it on it’s own before or after a meal (or instead of one). But if you insist: berry cobbler or a fruit flan. Happy? I am Sparkling Dessert food pairings: fruit dishes, sushi, custard dishes. Drink: 2016 – 2018 256289 6.5% S 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. June 2016.
Other Wines/Drinks
Mrs. Beachley’s Mulled Wine, California, United States: A lovely, festive dessert wine that’s not cloyingly sweet. The cinnamon spice gives it a zesty kick and the wine flavours come through naturally: think red plum and dark cherry. Simmer this on the stove to make the whole house smell like Christmas, but don’t forget to drink it. Pair with shortbread cookies and a blazing fire. Mulled Wine food pairings: apple dumplings, custard pie, almond cake. Drink: 2016 – 2017 295386 13% S 750 mL $12.95 Score: 89/100. September 2015.
Posted with permission of the LCBO.
