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Tastings: June 2014
30 June 2014
86PTS
Ique Malbec 2013
Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaSavoury, spicy, peppery, black cherry, cola, rooty, floral, tobacco aromas. Ripe, round, supple palate with smoky, savoury, celery salt, black cherry, tobacco leaf, rooty flavours. A bit warm and herbal on the finish but solid effort for the price. Flank steak would a fine match. Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Destinea Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Loire, FranceFloral, gooseberry, passion fruit, jalapeno nose with bits of nettle. Fresh, juicy and creamy on the palate if slightly austere with lemon grass, grapefruit, passion fruit and floral flavours. Good intensity but youthful. Serve with a creamy chicken dish.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Régis Boucabeille Les Terrasses 2012
Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Roussillon, Sud de France, FranceSmoky, licorice root, spicy, meaty, black berry, tobacco, balsamic, floral, plum and garrigues aromas. Ripe, round, fresh, juicy palate that is smooth and a bit warm. Gamey, black raspberry jam, plum, licorice, coffee, peppery, savoury, dried thyme flavours. Good overall fruit and intensity here and ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Terravista Fandango Albariño Verdejo 2013
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIt is year three for this one of kind Canadian blend made by co-owner, winemaker Senka Tennant and it's the best yet. The blend albariño/verdejo in a 68/32 mix all grown on the Naramata bench is refreshing, electric, fun, juicy and just plain delicious to drink. A subtle blend of juicy citrus, minerality with floral, fresh dried herbs supported by pear and white peach flavours. So well-balanced you don't notice the alcohol is 14 percent. Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Church & State Wines Trebella 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMarsanne, roussanne and viognier is a blend that works in BC. Trebella has been nailing it for a while and the 2012 maybe the best yet. A little less exotic and little more fresh it is a juicy mix of nectarine fruit and skin with peachy, succulent apricot flavours and textures. The grapes for this wine were picked from the Bella and Second Chapter vineyards in the Okanagan Valley in late October. Aged in French oak and acacia barrels and lees stirred regularly for 6 months. Impressive.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Clos du Soleil Signature 2011
British Columbia, CanadaAn amazing effort in 2011 and frankly a terrific bottle of red wine that is all British Columbia. It is the balance that really sets this apart from the field. Fresh spicy, ripe black olive notes mark the nose with bits of black fruit and dark chocolate. The attack is full and round but with smooth fine-grained tannin. The textures are deep and rich with smoky, vanilla, black cherry, peppery, pipe tobacco flavours with a twist of savoury dried herbs. Impressive now but will improve in bottle through 2020. Try this with wild boar, roast beef or grilled steaks.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Stag's Hollow Heritage Block 2011
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHeritage Block is a Bordeaux-style red where merlot and cabernet franc dominate with just seven percent cabernet sauvignon added for structure. A mix of French and American oak used for 18 months gives it a more easy-sipping textures. Look for impressive dark cherry fruit flavours and friendly soft tannins. Bits of spice and milk chocolate mark the finish. Just about any grilled meats will work here. Good value in a solid red blend.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Stag's Hollow Cabernet Franc 2011
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNot unlike the 2010 with its roasted tomato paste and leafy black fruit aromas. The palate is soft the attack smooth with smoky cherry, tobacco oaky notes that finish short. The fruit was hand harvested, bunch sorted, de-stemmed fermented in one ton fermenters where 50% of the berries were left whole and uncrushed. It was aged for 18 months before being blended and bottled without fining or filtration. The fruit is both Oliver and Osoyoos based. Another cool year that yielded not quite ripe enough fruit that really sings. Try this with grilled sausages.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Les Halos de Jupiter Côtes du Rhône 2011
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceThe vineyard at Les Halos is at elevation lending the fruit more finesse and balance then you might expect. The blend is 2011 is 85/10/5 grenache (described as very old) with syrah and mourvèdre. They always pick late at heightened ripeness and double sort the fruit - in the vineyard and at the winery. The grenache and mourvèdre are blended after malolactic fermentation and it's all aged in concrete to preserve the fruit. The attack is spicy with bright floral, ripe black raspberry fruit flecked with liquorice and notes of garrigue. Cambie suggests it could live 20 years in the bottle but for now grilled lamb or beef would be the just the thing to tame this rich red. Not your average Côtes Du Rhône.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.65 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Baillie-Grohman Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
Creston, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2011 is an 85/15 merlot/cabernet sauvignon mix with acidity and coolness you would expect in a cool tear. Black cherry flavours sit among a somewhat skinny frame flecked with cedar, spice and a touch of green tannins none of which is showing much integration at this point. The fruit is picked over a series of week from Harmony One Vineyards near Cawston in the south Similkameen Valley and aged in both seasoned and 30 percent new French oak barriques. Serve now with grilled steak or let it mature another year or two in bottle. Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Bartier-Scholefield B-S Red Table Wine 2011
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCan a wine be a window into its terroir if it takes winemaking to reveal it? No doubt a question the BS boys ask each other deep into the night. This is a better red than its previous edition, with more pure red fruit on the nose and palate. A blend of merlot sets the soft round textures while the rest of the fruit: pinot noir and gamay noir add the juice factor and syrah the spic and a bit of weight. Perfect with a meat-based pasta dish.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
C.C. Jentsch Syrah 2012
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe syrah is crushed to tank and co-fermented with 6 per cent viognier followed by a 7 day cold soak. The style is light and floral with the characteristic meaty/animal syrah grape character. The attack is juicy and supple with a peppery palate marked by floral undertones and some tomato leaf, vanilla and elevated acidity pushing through the finish. Balanced and well made. Retasted twice since and it is progressing well in bottle and weight and style.Prices:| BC | $29.90 | 750ml |
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22 June 2014
86PTS
Nederburg Cabernet Sauvignon Winemaster's Reserve 2012
Western Cape, South AfricaOne of the best we have tasted in years with well-defined aromas and flavours blackcurrants, black cherries with spicy vanilla undertones. The attack is smooth and balanced with more dark fruit and spice. Clean well-made and would be perfect with grilled meat dishes, beef stroganoff and stews. So much cleaner and brighter than previous versions. The fruit is all Western Cape and is now 15 to 22 years old. Good value.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.86 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.45 | 750ml |
| NS | $13.85 | 750ml |
| NF | $14.38 | 750ml |
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19 June 2014
87PTS
Hester Creek Block 2 Reserve Merlot 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh candied, cola nose with roasted coffee bean and vanilla aromas. The attack is lean with sweet candied fruit, Christmas cake flavours with a rich vanilla, toffee caramel finish. Still needs time to settle down in the bottle and pull itself together but its putting on weight. Try this with roast beef.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
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17 June 2014
87PTS
Stag's Hollow Con-Fusion 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaClassic BC aromatic white with plenty of baked apple and pear aromas with floral honey and light lees notes. Cleaner than previous versions but soft in comparison to the electric riesling made here. Look for oily litchi fruit flavours with bits of apricot and melon. The fruit comes off Balwant Vineyard in Osoyoos and Lost Creek Vineyard in Oliver.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Stag's Hollow Riesling Amalia Vineyard 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWow. Just off dry but extremely crisp and fresh this riesling hits all the right notes from its enticing floral, subtly botrytised, tea rose nose to its citrus, peachy/strawberry, orange peel crunchy fruit. The fruit is sourced from Amalia Vineyard located on the west bench of Osoyoos. Any wine that makes you salivate is high on minerality and at 11.5 percent alcohol I'm high on this label. Well done. Try this with your favourite curry dish. BravoPrices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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15 June 2014
92PTS
Domaine de Longue Toque Gigondas 2012
Gigondas, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceDomaine de Longue Toque was founded in 1918 and takes its name from the long lines of trees (toque in local Provencal language) used in earlier times to identify property lines. The vines at Toque cover 4 of the 5 recognized appellation terroirs at 200 to 400 metres and they span three geological eras. The colour is deep and impressive followed by a melange of red fruit, spice and minerals. It's the balance and complexity that really impresses here letting the true spicy, fruity nature of Gigondas shine through. The grenache is aged in tank; the syrah in one year old wood.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Domaine de Longue Toque Vacqueyras 2012
Vacqueyras, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceThe blend is 80/20 grenache/syrah grown on calcium rich soils in a warm environment in the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail Mountains. A small portion of the syrah is aged in new wood the rest in older oak that is aged 12 months before bottling. The style is spicy and rich with soft red fruit flavours, liquorice with a hint of toasted, garam masala. Plenty of finesse and length thanks to well-managed tannins. This will keep easily through 2022. Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Gabriel Meffre Gigondas Sainte Catherine 2012
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceAn old vine blend of 55/35/10 grenache, syrah and mourvèdre grown on high ph alkaline calcareous soils. Post fermentation the wine is aged 18 months in barrique of which one third is new. The nose is highly aromatic with lifted fruit and spice notes. The attack is dense with a long, spicy, garrigue undercurrent. This will be best with roasted meats but I would give it seven to 10 years more ageing in bottle for maximum enjoyment. Excellent value. Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Gabriel Meffre Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint Mapalis 2012
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceThis Plan de Dieu Saint-Mapalis is a 50/30/20 blend of grenache, mourvèdre and syrah from Cairanne, Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Sablet that opens up with a fresh savoury garrigue liquorice nose. The entry round and in this case showing a bit more finesse than the regular CdRs. The palate is awash in rich, red soft fruits with bits of blackberry, blueberry, cherry fruit and curry flavours. Impressive dry red that would be excellent with stuffed turkey.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
GM Côtes de Provence Rosé 2013
Côtes de Provence, Provence, Sud de France, FranceGrenache and syrah are behind this delicious rosé with its aromatic red cherry aromas. The juice goes through a short pre-fermentation maceration before it's racked off, fermented and aged in vats. Expect a delicate, lightly coloured rosé with a savoury mix of red fruits, oranges and citrus. Serve all summer on the patio or with classic summer salads or grilled chicken dishes.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge 2013
Côtes du Rhône Villages, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceYou can expect a slightly more complex structure and bouquet from a Villages versus the Cotes du Rhone and in 2013 lower yield as well. The blend is 70/20/10 black grenache/syrah and mourvèdre. A three week maceration contributes to a deeper, richer "Villages" style. Look for ripe black fruit flavours with a touch of red plum for freshness and that characteristic liquorice and spice finish. Grilled flank steak or hard cheeses are an excellent pairing. Maison Louis Bernard works with over 20 vineyard owners in the Côtes-du-Rhône Villages appellation which spreads across some 4000 ha and 95 villages in Ardèche, Vaucluse, Drôme and Gard.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.40 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge 2012
Côtes du Rhône Villages, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceMaison Louis Bernard works with over 20 vineyard owners in the Côtes-du-Rhône Villages appellation which spreads across some 4000 ha and 95 villages in Ardèche, Vaucluse, Drôme and Gard. You can expect a slightly more complex structure and bouquet from a 'Villages' versus the Cotes du Rhone. The blend is black grenache, syrah and mourvèdre. The attack is fresh with warm spicy fruit flecked with dried herbs black fruits and liquorice. A solid weekend red for the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.40 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2012
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceAfter a recent tour through the southern Rhone and the Languedoc it's clear that the white wines of the Rhone are as interesting as ever. In this mix grenache blanc/bourboulenc/clairette and as fresh and as lively as you could want for the price. The mix of floral scents and tropical fruits flecked with citrus and stony, mineral notes. The finish is crisp and dry allowing for countless seafood matches or pasta dishes in a cream sauce.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.45 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Gabriel Meffre Côtes-du-Rhône Blanc Cuvée Saint-Vincent 2013
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceSo impressed with the latest white wines of the Rhone. The nose is an enticing mix of white flowers and aromatic peachy notes with spicy, nectarine, apricot and honey flavours. The finish is dry and elegant making this a perfect wine for scallops, sole or simply prepared halibut. The blend is a mix of 50-60 percent white grenache with bourboulenc, clairette blanc, roussanne and viognier from the north of Vaucluse and Gard. The grapes are vinified separately and fermented at very low temperatures before spending 6 months in vats prior to bottling. Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Fat Bastard Chardonnay 2008
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThe not so Fat Bastard is down to 40 percent French oak and the style is a fresh as ever. Look for bright floral, lemon aromas and a similar light, fresh palate that is now almost dry. Green apple flavours with light lees, a twist of lemon and a slightly bitter finish mark its modern style. Perfect for crab salads or seafood pasta fishes.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Louis Bernard Crozes Hermitage 2012
Rhone Valley, FranceLovely signature peppery nose with flecks of smoked meat, black cherry and earthy, leather aromas. The attack is slippery with round, elegant tannins, and juicy mineral black cherry fruit mixed with a savoury finish. Love the finish and the bright acidity here. Drink now with roasted meats or cellar for three to five years. Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Teusner Avatar Grenache Mataro Shiraz 2013
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaThe locals call Avatar the big brother to Joshua although in 2012 it has a slightly elevated amount of shiraz (30 percent) versus previous years but the grenache at 40 percent still dominates the blend bringing bright red fruit and lift to the spice and earth of the mataro (30 percent). The blend spends year in used French and American oak that support the wine but does not dominate the dense, complex Christmas cake fruit that speaks to 90 year old vines. The finish is juicy and long suggesting it will age well through 2020. Lamb chops would be a perfect match.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $36.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Teusner Joshua Grenache Mataro Shiraz 2013
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaJoshua was the first wine made at Teusner back in 2002. The recipe is unoaked, juicy, spicy, Barossa grenache, mataro and shiraz blended into a 63/23/14 mix. Teusner says the grapes were the best they have harvested since they winery launch in 2002 and we believe him. The 70 year old grenache grown in the sandy soils of the Riebke Vineyard in the northern Barossa is the star of the show. Soft, bright youthful and brimming with spicy plummy/black raspberry fruit and a spicy twist this is fun easy sipping from an amazing vintage.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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14 June 2014
87PTS
Meyer Pinot Noir 2012
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Meyer style is all gentle with minimal intervention. The 'Okanagan' pinot is de-stemmed with 10% whole clusters going into the ferment. The result spends ten months in 100% old seasoned French oak to reduce any influence on the fruit - a mix of Kelowna, Oliver and Okanagan Falls grapes - including some off the property purchases. The nose is spicy with some herbaceous notes mixed with sweet raspberry fruit. The balance is fine in what is more of a rounder California style pinot. Best with salmon or mushrooms dishes.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Delaporte a Chavignol Sancerre Rouge 2012
Sancerre, Upper Loire, Loire, FranceSancerre pinot noir is predictably delicate with emphasis juicy, fruity pinot noir. Expect a mix of red and black fruits with dried herbs and cinnamon spice poking through the back end. Expect some youthful tannin and more smoky fruit in the finish. Swordfish would be a fine match or try it with some goat cheese. The vines range in age from 21 to 40 years and some 70 percent are planted in clay mixed with flint the remainder is on limestone. Prices:| Bc | $30.00 | 750ml |
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10 June 2014
88PTS
Mission Hill Reserve Pinot Gris 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight yellow colour with pear, green apple, canned grapefruit, light lanolin, lees, vanilla and butter aromas. Dry, fresh, juicy, slightly austere, food-friendly, palate with melon rind, lime, green apple, spicy lees, grassy/grapefruit flavours with a bit of vanilla and citrus rind. Fine length and intensity but could another year in the bottle to gather itself. Try this with creamy pasta dishes or seafood tacos.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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09 June 2014
89PTS
Château d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé 2012
Côtes de Provence, Provence, Sud de France, FranceSascha Lichine, son of the legendary Alexis and Patrick Leon, former winemaker at Chateau Mouton are the forces behind this high-end Provence project. Whispering Angel is the introductory label made to be consumed quickly. It is a delicate, delicious drinking style of rosé with a strawberry/watermelon aroma with light juicy citrus red fruit flavours on the palate. It's the delicate, airy style that makes this almost colourless wine so delicious but hardly cheap. Any number of summer style pâtés would make a fine match.Prices:| BC | $34.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
CedarCreek Riesling 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWinemaker Darryl Brooker suggest "riesling often defies logic in that more sugar doesn't always equal more flavour. In 2012 the riesling was fermented cold (8-9 degrees Celsius) and slow (77 days) to retain the aromatics. Citrus remains the theme although there is a touch of richness and sweet riesling on the mid-palate. Love the fresh limey notes mixed with green apples and more citrus in the back end. Straightforward, fresh, affordable riesling that will work with everything from fish to grilled pork.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
CedarCreek Rosé Pinot Noir 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNo big change here from year to year. The colour is pale pink after a seven day cold soak. The nose a slightly candied strawberry nose. The attack is soft and just off -dry at 9 grams per litre of sugar but with freshness and purity. The winery call it pinot unplugged and it's getting lighter and brighter every year. Like last year the food pairing is a big summer charcuterie platter.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bench 1775 Glow 2013
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLove the pale, copper/bronze St. Tropez colour. Traditional wine making has yielded an impressive 11 percent rosé that is fun to drink. Look for a zesty palate with strawberries, watermelon, pink grapefruit flecked with dried herbs and touch of resiny bitterness in the finish. Pasta, chicken and seafood salads all work here.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tinhorn Creek 2Bench Oldfield Series Rosé 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaYear five and Tinhorn has gone back to 100 percent cabernet franc presumably from the Diamondback Vineyard on Black Sage Bench. The colour is perfection, the style is bone dry and food friendly. If you want a sweet rose this is not it. Expect a savoury mix of rhubarb, cranberry, and raspberry on the nose and similar flavours with flecks of dried herbs in the finish. Try this with summer pasta dishes or your favourite grilled salmon dish.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Mission Hill Rosé Five Vineyards 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRosé is a technical wine as oppose to something you make with leftover grapes. That's why Mission Hill seems to nail it every year. Love the pale colour, it could be even paler for my eye, the attack is suitably juicy and fresh with watermelon, floral, strawberries aromas and flavours with just a hint of sweetness. Seriously fun to sip which is more than I can say for its black capsule and packaging. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $15.50 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc 2012
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThis wine has always been a treat to drink and as fine as the 2011 is the 2012 may be even better. The nose is fabulous mix of tropical fruit and stony minerality notes with flecks of nettle, dried herbs and lemon curd. The blend is 87/13 sauvignon blanc/sémillon the latter bringing mouthfeel and figgy/orange rind notes. The balance and texture is near perfect in a wine that is faintly sweet on entry but beautifully dry in the finish. Complex and food friendly it is a marvel for the price. The majority of grapes come from Stags Leap and Oakville districts, and approximately two thirds of the wine is barrel fermented and it's all aged in 60-gallon French oak barrels, sûr lie for some nine months.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
St. Hubertus Frizzante Rosé 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight pink/cherry with struck match, cherry, citrus minty, savoury aromas. The attack is fresh with a touch of spritz and more cherry, citrus, rhubarb flavours flecked with dried herbs. A fun, juicy style that is dry enough to work with a lot summer dishes.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Hester Creek Rosé Cabernet Franc 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHester Creek has gone for the sweet, hedonistic rosé style with sweet, almost syrupy cherry aromas and flavours with a dash of orange. The finish is long soft and sweet with some pepper notes. Chill this baby down and serve it on a hot patio or go with your favourite hot curries, or Thai dishes.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Meyer Rose 2012
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Meyer Rosé is 100 percent merlot that is de-stemmed, crushed and cold soaked for 72 hours and barrel fermented in neutral oak adding texture and weight before ageing on its lees in stainless steel for another 4 months. Just off-dry this weighty, strawberry/raspberry candied apple pink has enough sweetness to work with a variety of spicy dishes be it Thai, Chinese, Indian or barbecue ribs.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
LaStella Lastellina Rosato 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSlightly off-dry but fresh and aromatic this merlot/cabernet franc Rosé will appeal to those who like a swoosh of sugar in their pink. The flavours are mix of candied dark fruits with dried herbs and spice. You can easily enjoy this solo on a hot summer afternoon or evening (serve well-chilled to managed the cloying finish) or try it with some spicy spareribs on the patio. Fun.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
50th Parallel Estate Pinot Noir Rosé 2013
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaClassic cool-climate pinot noir rosé with a pale eye of the partridge colour. The nose is a mix of red berries, cran-cherries and wild dried herbs. The attack is dry with pink grapefruit and cranberry flavours with touch of citrus rind in the back end. Fresh and dry with a touch of bitterness that make sit food friendly. Try with pasta and white meats or salmon/chicken salads.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Haywire Pinot Gris Switchback Vineyard Raised in Concrete 2012
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWaxy, lime, pea shoot, grassy, light honey and slate aromas with a whiff of matchstick. Fresh, round, creamy palate with lees, slate, floral, lime, grassy, green apple skin flavours and a light nutty, leesy finish. Good texture and delicacy if a bit tart at the end. Needs a year to integrate the wild ferment and lees characters with the acidity. This wine is on a different tract where site will soon overtake the grape. Try this with simply-prepared, fresh-grilled fish. Fermented in egg-shaped concrete tanks.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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08 June 2014
89PTS
Black Hills Nota Bene 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2012 Nota Bene blend is 57/35/8 merlot/cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc. It is the first time in more than a decade merlot has taken the lead in the blend. It explains the softer textures and rounder mouthfeel. The attack is juicy with smoky, cran-cherry, spicy dill dried herb aromas, fine grained tannins with a bit of heat in the back end. This wine is but a pup and underneath it remains firm and dry with those familiar, youthful, roasted tomato and graphite/resin notes. Give this five years to pull it all together. The wine is aged in an 80/20 mix of French and American oak. Sold out online, as usual.Prices:| BC | $53.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Pierre Amadieu Gigondas Romane-Machotte Rouge 2011
Gigondas, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceRomane-Machotte is a classic blend of grenache and syrah fermented on the skins for some thirty days. This cuvée is aged partly in two year-old barrels and partly in oak casks, during 12 to 15 months to protect the fruit. Grown closed the forest you pick up the garrigue threads inside the red fruits and its round silky palate. A mix of plums and berries with a pleasant peppery undertone. Grilled beef with vegetables is the match. Drink now or cellar through 2020 for even better results.Prices:| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Pierre Amadieu Gigondas Romane-Machotte Rosé 2013
Gigondas, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceThe pale pink colour stems from a mix of mix grenache, syrah and cinsault all grown on rocky hillsides over clay-limestone soils. The nose is highly expressive with fresh crushed raspberries and peach notes. The grapes are 50/50 grenache and syrah, direct pressed and bled off a few short hours after. The mouth is round and smooth with lively cherry flavours and freshness throughout. A revelation; Gigondas in a Provencal cloak. Would be fun with salmon or shellfish and equally at home with Thai or Indian dishes.Prices:| CDN | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Pierre Amadieu Domaine Grand Romane Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2012
Gigondas, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceMade from 60-year old, 100 percent clairette vines grown at 400m above sea level. The wine is age in new French oak barrels and left on its lies for 6 months. Expect a fresh style white with a cool green apple skin nose with floral undertones and complex nutty pear fruit flavours. The wine is not overly expressive but well crafted and built to spend extra time in the bottle. The combination of freshness and balance makes it very attractive. Grilled white fish or young goat cheese would be a fine match. Prices:| US | $15.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Church & State Wines Quintessential 2011
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIt's been a while since I've tasted Quintessential in fact the last time was the 2005 vintage when it was put together by Napa Valley legend Bill Dyer. Clearly he made a lasting impression with his blend. The 2011 is very hedonistic in style and well, more California than Okanagan at this point. There is a ripeness you don't often see in BC Bordeaux blends; this red has all five grapes: cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, malbec and petit verdot. All grown on the Black Sage Bench. The nose is more South Okanagan, fragrant, savoury, dried herbs mixed with ripe cassis. The attack is skinny and warm with more dark fruits, tobacco, cedar and a hint of dried tomatoes. This needs another three years to put some fat on to balance off the fruit and spice. Not expected to be release until 2015 but you can grab some now off the website.Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Champagne Taittinger Nocturne Rose NV
Champagne, FranceA 30/70 mix of chardonnay and pinot noir/meunier fruit that fills the glass with a light raspberry colour and a fresh brioche, cherry/strawberry aroma with a hint of citrus. The attack is Taittinger elegant and creamy an off dry mixed of baked apple, honey, spicy, strawberry, citrus flavours. You don't really feel the 17.5 percent residual sugar given the acidity and fruit balance. Try this with foie gras or spicy appetizers or chill well and serve post dinner with alight fruit dessert. A blend of more than 30 sites and several vintages completes its complex styling.Prices:| QC | $77.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $100.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $90.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Ironstone Vineyards Obsession Symphony 2012
California, United StatesOrange creamsicles likely dates this reviewer but that and lime rind, mint, ginger and a vague resemblance to muscat all conjure up a fresh-flavoured wine. The attack is medium sweet, think spicy food, but with enough acidity and lightness to remain fresh and persistent. Cool it down and throw a spicy Indian curry at this and you will be happy.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Baillie-Grohman Récolte Blanc 2013
Creston, British Columbia, CanadaThe Récolte Blanc is a 60/25/15/ mix of pinot gris, schönburger and kerner a sort of Edelzwicker without the riesling. Look for a bright fresh, off-dry white with gobs of pear and melon fruit. The palate is all tropical with a twist of bitter lime rind in the finish. The fruit is a mix of estate (Creston) and in Keremeos BC. The weight and structure and residual sugar 14.6 cries out for spicy Thai or Indian food. Tasty.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Baillie-Grohman Pinot Gris 2013
Creston, British Columbia, CanadaAnother year and this wine has really started to sing. We love the freshness here and its ability to make one salivate. The attack is both fresh and ripe with beautiful textures, baked apple, melons and a lovely current of citrus, orange and minerality in the back end. The finish is clean with just ahint of sweetness and dried herbs. Well done and a statement for Creston and Erickson Bench. Well made. Half the wine is fermented in 6 year or older Burgundian barriques used to impart texture and it works.Prices:| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Domaine Piaugier Sablet Côtes de Rhône Villages 2011
Sablet, Côtes du Rhône Villages, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceOpen, lifted, floral peppery nose with black cherry, liquorice, garrigue and orange peel aromas. Fresh, full, round and warm on attack with meaty raspberry flavours and somewhat tart acidity in the back end. The finish is long, sweet, warm and peppery packing a warm, alcoholic punch. Try this with a T-bone steak or a pork roast.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Pierre Amadieu Domaine Grand Romane Gigondas 2011
Gigondas, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceThe Grand Romane is made with 60 year old vines including mourvèdre that is fermented in a whole cluster carbonic maceration. The wine is aged in a mix of small French oak barriques and 100 hl oak casks to soften the structure and the tannins. Look for smoky, earthy, peppery nose with bright floral/black fruit and dried herbs aromas. The attack is full and somewhat tannic but with fine acidity. Meaty, gamey, black cherry jam, black plum, clove, vanilla, peppery, tobacco flavours. Good fruit and concentration in a young red that needs three to four more years in bottle to fully mature. Very good value for Gigondas and well worth cellaring.Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
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07 June 2014
89PTS
CedarCreek Chardonnay 2012
British Columbia, CanadaIt's been a while since we have seen a new chardonnay release from CedarCreek. The 2012 has about six percent pinot gris in the blend. It ferments for two months in a mix of steel, foudre & oak and then spends eleven months on its lees. The oak is subtle and supports the texture without killing the ripe, tropical fruit notes that gush from the glass mixed with grass and citrus notes. Refreshing stylish, light, bright and mineral. The new Okanagan. A perfect chardonnay for BC seafood. Some 80 percent of the wine is now wild fermented tying it much closer to the site and its northern Okanagan home. A winner. Back up the truck. Great value.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
CedarCreek Pinot Gris 2013
British Columbia, CanadaThe CC gris comes off the Upper CedarCreek Vineyard where s left to hang to full ripeness often ending up in a face-off with the local bears. Winemaker Darryl Brooker does apportion of wild ferment which appears gives the wine a super juicy orange and mineral undertone to support its fresh peachy/honey fruit flavours. A stylish gris that would be comfortable with a variety of seafood and poultry. Drink now.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
CedarCreek Gewürztraminer 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWinemaker Darryl Brooker takes his time (12 hours plus) pressing his gewürztraminer's hoping to capture the entire spectrum of aromas and flavours. The style is rich and full, the polar opposite of his delicate riesling style. In fact the style is more Alsace with big, fat, oily, rich, floral notes and exotic spice. The palate is broad with less acidity and notes of litchi, honey, lychees, orange/peach flavours. Try this with a favourite curry or spicy Thai dish. Impressive.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bodega Atamisque Serbal Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Tupungato, Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaA pleasant surprise, high altitude (3,600') sauvignon that arrives with understatement. The attack is quiet preferring subtle citrus, grapefruit, grass and aromatic notes that draw you into the glass. Bits of lime and dried herbs with just a touch of citrus mark the palate of what could be mistaken for a mini Sancerre. Complexity and balance make this very food-friendly. The wine is stainless steel ferments and goes through 100 percent malolactic Fermentation: 100% in stainless steel tanks.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Miopasso Primitivo 2012
Puglia, ItalyFresh earthy, meaty, grapey nose with savoury plum aromas. The attack is similar with juicy fruity cherry black liquorice fruit with spicy tobacco notes. Rustic, easy-sipping red for that would be best with grilled meats. Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
M. Chapoutier Marius Terret Vermentino 2011
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceMichel Chapoutier loves the Languedoc and believes in time it will divided a la Burgundy to best recognise its great sites. Marius, named after his grandfather, is great example how simplicity can be beguiling. The blend is a mix of terret and vermentino or rolle. The result is a stony, floral, yellow fruit aromas with bits of lemon. The palate is fresh boasting just enough acidity to make you think its origin may be further north. Shellfish, asparagus risotto, young hard cheese will all work here. Solid.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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04 June 2014
91PTS
Champagne Taittinger Brut Reserve NV
Champagne, FranceTaittinger has 288 hectares of vineyards across Champagne making it one of the largest owners of vines in the region always handy when the vintage goes sideways. In the case of the NV blend the mix is normally 40 percent chardonnay with some 60 percent split between pinot meunier and pinot noir. It's the high percentage of chardonnay, unique among its competitors that gives this bubble such a leg up in finesse. Toasted notes of bread with honey, baked pear and strawberry and citrus aromas draw you into the glass. The attack is fresh light and persistent with more citrus, baked green apple, honey, strawberry flavours. Each glass is enchanting offering refinement and finesse at affair price. Serve with just about anything. The 3D 'hologram effect' of bubbles on its new range of gift-packaging is the icing on the cake if you are looking for a great gift.Prices:| BC | $76.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $69.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $76.99 | 750ml |
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03 June 2014
89PTS
Cherry Tart Pinot Noir 2012
California, United StatesJayson Woodbridge is the man behind Cherry Pie using Carneros and Napa Valley fruit for his entry level pinot. Juicy jammy dark cherry fruit aromas and flavours jump from the glass along with flecks of vanilla and spice. The style is rich and hedonistic with a ripe mid-palate and finish. A simple but friendly red you can drink with or without food. The 2102 is a multi-vineyard blend from three sites Sonoma Coast, Monterey County and Santa Barbara County planted to Pommard & 777 clones. Perfect with salmon.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Rudolf Muller Bunny Riesling 2012
Pfalz, GermanyA fun Pfalz riesling that's long on ripe fruit and low alcohol. Look for a peachy, nectarine skin nose with just off-dry flavours of floral, orange and lemon-lime that finish crisp, with just a hint of minerality. Thai, Indian or your favourite spicy sushi all work here.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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02 June 2014
91PTS
Fonseca Quinta do Panascal 1998
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalA somewhat richer style made from a single quinta with spicy, floral, peppery, earthy, liquorice, coffee, walnut, black cherry, fig and balsamic aromas. Rich, full, juicy, slightly tannic palate with a bit of warmth. Very peppery, walnut, prune plum, spicy, dried fig and licorice flavours. Good concentration and length. This is developing well but has a good future for the next 3-10 years. A bit chunkier than the Vargellas from Taylor.Prices:| BC | $80.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Gérard Bertrand Aigle Royal Chardonnay 2012
Limoux, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceWe love the 2011 and the 2012 is probably better. Domaine de l'Aigle is 31 hectares of perfection in Limoux at the northernmost part of the Haute Vallée de l'Aude vineyards. At elevations of 250 and 500 metres above sea level Bertrand grows some very sophisticated chardonnay and pinot noir fruit whose hall mark is elegance. L'Aigle Royal is a block of vines at the highest elevation that sit over clay-limestone soil and facing directly south. The result is an amazing mix of fresh fruits on the nose: nectarines, red apple and citrus with flecks of dried herbs and vanilla. Rich and ripe but not overbearing the creamy, juicy palate is awash in more green apple, pineapple, floral, toasty lees and vanilla flavours. Power and finesse this wine will improve through 2020. Try this with lobster for rich/rich effect.Prices:| BC | $95.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $70.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Masi Campofiorin 2010
Verona, Veneto, ItalySavoury, peppery, black cherry, tobacco, almond, tobacco and sausage meat aromas. Fresh, round, easy palate with very light tannins. Chocolate, balsamic, black cherry, tobacco, smoky, savoury meat flavours. A bit rustic but elegant and flavourful.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $21.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $23.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $20.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $22.50 | 750ml |
| PEI | $21.00 | 750ml |
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96PTS
Taylor Fladgate Very Old Single Harvest Port 1964
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalPale amber colour with a tinge of green. Spicy, nutty, floral, lifted dried cherry, walnut, vanilla, smoky, toffee, tobacco, dried citrus peel and cinnamon aromas. Rich, full, juicy, sweet but finely balanced with acidity. Toffee, orange peel, ginger, vanilla, fig, peppery, cedar, walnut flavours. Great finesse and length here in the first of a series of 50-year old, single vintage tawny or Colheita port. Any form of nutty cake would be a fine match.Prices:| BC | $280.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
William Fèvre Chablis Champs Royaux 2012
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceLemon/ lime, earthy, light lees, sea shell, green apple skin and Bosc pear aromas. Dry, fresh, juicy, elegant palate with light honey, green apple skin, nettle, lees, lime, seaweed and herb flavours. A bit tighter and fresher than the Petit Chablis and thus could use a year in bottle but good balance for squid and fish. Unfortunately, the price keeps rising in BC with the short vintages and high euro now impacting its affordability.Prices:| BC | $27.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Clos du Soleil Capella 2012
British Columbia, CanadaQuiet grassy, passion fruit, nettle, floral, grapefruit rind nose with light, nutty, lees aromas. Fresh, creamy, juicy, elegant palate with a pink grapefruit, nettle, pea shoot, gooseberry, grassy, green apple flavours. Finish is crisp with a hint of lanolin and lees. Fine intensity with youth and complexity. This will improve in bottle through 2017. Shellfish is the match or white meats.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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85PTS
James Mitchell Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Lodi, Central Valley, California, United StatesPeppery, smoky, cedar bark, cocoa, shoe leather, resin and briar aromas. Soft, round, easy palate with light sweetness and more cocoa, cedar bark, rooty, black berry and prune flavours with bits of dried olives and tobacco on the finish. A simple sipping red wine for the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $21.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
The Beach House Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Western Cape, South AfricaBright floral, gooseberry, canned grapefruit, grassy, light asparagus aromas. Fresh, juicy, creamy, lightly sweet entry but balanced with pink grapefruit, passion fruit, grassy, jalapeno and green apple flavours. Good fresh, clean, easy-sipping style at a very fair price. Stock up.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $12.50 | 750ml |
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84PTS
The Beachhouse Red 2012
Western Cape, South AfricaVery meaty, smoky, earthy, shoe leather, rooty, licorice aromas with a soft, round, juicy palate. Green olive, peppery, smoked meat, leather, gamey, chocolate, tobacco flavours with a hint of sweetness. A modern take with an old style result. Best with grilled meats.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $12.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Sumac Ridge Cabernet Merlot Private Reserve 2011
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTobacco leaf, green bean, olive, herbal, smoky resin, cedar aromas. Fresh, juicy, easy palate with light tannins and sweetness. Roasted bell pepper, resin, smoky coffee, green bean, savoury, herbal, tomato paste and vanilla flavours. Easy sipping style but with a green, herbaceous undertone. Barbecue meats would help tame the green notes here.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Masi Serego Alighieri Possessioni Rosso 2011
Verona, Veneto, ItalyPeppery, savoury, meaty, saddle leather nose with tobacco, black cherry and balsamic aromas. Fresh, round, smooth palate with chocolate, balsamic, gamey, peppery, leather, liquorice, cedar, light Band-Aid and prune flavours. Somewhat rustic but full flavoured for meat and tomato sauce dishes.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.50 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Masi Brolo Campofiorin Oro 2009
Verona, Veneto, ItalyThe upscale ripasso from Campofiorin, opens with a spicy, savoury, black cherry jam nose with bits of balsamic, smoked, meat and leather aromas. The attack is full, round and juicy with light tannins and savoury, peppery, black cherry, olive chocolate and leather flavours. You can drink this now with a meaty pizza or chicken pasta dish or cellar for three to five years. A special selection of Campofiorin made with corvina and rondinella.Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $25.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $27.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $29.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $29.99 | 750ml |
| NFL | $27.74 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaFresh earthy, black olive, smoky nose with tobacco, leather, black berry, cedar/coffee aromas. Fresh, juicy, slightly sweet entry with cassis, black berry, saddle leather, liquorice, black olive and vanilla flavours with a bit of baked fruit and coffee. A bit rustic and sweet on the finish but otherwise solid. Best with grilled meats.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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01 June 2014
87PTS
William Fèvre Petit Chablis 2012
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceGreen apple, sea shell, light lees, pear skin, leaf and honey aromas. Fresh, juicy, creamy, elegant palate with baked green apple, pear, lime, seashell, lees and herb flavours. A bit light on the finish but has good balance and flavour intensity for near term drinking. Oysters anyone?Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $28.00 | 750ml |
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July 2014