quicksearch
Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Tasting Notes

Tastings: June 2014

30 June 2014

Ique Malbectext
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$17.00750ml
Producer: Bodega Enrique Foster
Read Full Note
Destinea Sauvignon Blanctext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Domaine Joseph Mellot
Read Full Note
Régis Boucabeille Les Terrassestext
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$19.99750ml
Producer: Domaine Boucabeille
Read Full Note
Terravista Fandango Albariño Verdejotext
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$25.00750ml
Producer: Terravista Vineyards
Read Full Note
Church & State Wines Trebellatext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Church & State Winery
Read Full Note
Clos du Soleil Signaturetext
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$40.00750ml
Producer: Clos du Soleil Winery
Read Full Note
Stag's Hollow Heritage Block text
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$25.00750ml
Producer: Stag's Hollow Winery and Vineyard
Read Full Note
Stag's Hollow Cabernet Franctext
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$28.00750ml
Producer: Stag's Hollow Winery and Vineyard
Read Full Note
Les Halos de Jupiter Côtes du Rhônetext
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$24.00750ml
AB$20.00750ml
QC$18.65750ml
Producer: Les Halos de Jupiter (Cambie Gassier)
Read Full Note
Baillie-Grohman Merlot Cabernet Sauvignontext
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$25.00750ml
AB$30.00750ml
Producer: Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Bartier-Scholefield B-S Red Table Winetext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Bartier Bros.
Read Full Note
C.C. Jentsch Syrahtext
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$29.90750ml
Producer: C.C. Jentsch Cellars
Read Full Note

22 June 2014

Nederburg Cabernet Sauvignon Winemaster's Reservetext
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$11.00750ml
AB$11.86750ml
ON$12.45750ml
NS$13.85750ml
NF$14.38750ml
Producer: Nederburg Wines (Pty) Ltd.
Read Full Note

19 June 2014

Hester Creek Block 2 Reserve Merlottext
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$29.00750ml
Producer: Hester Creek Estate Winery
Read Full Note

17 June 2014

Stag's Hollow Con-Fusiontext
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$18.00750ml
Producer: Stag's Hollow Winery and Vineyard
Read Full Note
Stag's Hollow Riesling Amalia Vineyardtext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Stag's Hollow Winery and Vineyard
Read Full Note

15 June 2014

Domaine de Longue Toque Gigondastext
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$30.00750ml
Producer: Gabriel Meffre
Read Full Note
Domaine de Longue Toque Vacqueyrastext
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$30.00750ml
Producer: Gabriel Meffre
Read Full Note
Gabriel Meffre Gigondas Sainte Catherinetext
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$33.00750ml
Producer: Gabriel Meffre
Read Full Note
Gabriel Meffre Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint Mapalistext
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$17.00750ml
Producer: Gabriel Meffre
Read Full Note
GM Côtes de Provence Rosétext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Gabriel Meffre
Read Full Note
Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône Villages Rougetext
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$16.00750ml
YK$18.00750ml
AB$14.40750ml
ON$14.00750ml
Producer: Louis Bernard
Read Full Note
Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône Villages Rougetext
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$16.00750ml
YK$18.00750ml
AB$14.40750ml
ON$14.00750ml
Producer: Louis Bernard
Read Full Note
Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône Blanctext
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$14.00750ml
ON$12.45750ml
Producer: Louis Bernard
Read Full Note
Gabriel Meffre Côtes-du-Rhône Blanc Cuvée Saint-Vincenttext
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$17.00750ml
Producer: Gabriel Meffre
Read Full Note
Fat Bastard Chardonnaytext
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$16.00750ml
ON$15.00750ml
NS$16.00750ml
NB$15.00750ml
YK$17.00750ml
AB$19.00750ml
Producer: Guy Anderson Wines
Read Full Note
Louis Bernard Crozes Hermitagetext
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$25.00750ml
Producer: Louis Bernard
Read Full Note
Teusner Avatar Grenache Mataro Shiraztext
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$40.00750ml
QC$36.00750ml
ON$35.00750ml
Producer: Teusner
Read Full Note
Teusner Joshua Grenache Mataro Shiraz text
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$35.00750ml
Producer: Teusner
Read Full Note

14 June 2014

Meyer Pinot Noirtext
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$25.00750ml
Producer: Meyer Family Vineyards
Read Full Note
Domaine Delaporte a Chavignol Sancerre Rougetext
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$30.00750ml
Producer: Domaine Vincent Delaporte
Read Full Note

10 June 2014

Mission Hill Reserve Pinot Gristext
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$21.00750ml
Producer: Mission Hill Family Estate
Read Full Note

09 June 2014

Château d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rosétext
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$34.00750ml
Producer: Château d'Esclans
Read Full Note
CedarCreek Rieslingtext
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$18.00750ml
Producer: CedarCreek Estate Winery
Read Full Note
CedarCreek Rosé Pinot Noirtext
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$18.00750ml
Producer: CedarCreek Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Bench 1775 Glowtext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Bench 1775 Winery
Read Full Note
Tinhorn Creek 2Bench Oldfield Series Rosétext
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$23.00750ml
Producer: Tinhorn Creek Vineyards
Read Full Note
Mission Hill Rosé Five Vineyardstext
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$15.00750ml
AB$15.00750ml
MB$15.50750ml
QC$19.00750ml
Producer: Mission Hill Family Estate
Read Full Note
Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanctext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Robert Mondavi Winery
Read Full Note
St. Hubertus Frizzante Rosétext
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$17.00750ml
Producer: St. Hubertus & Oak Bay Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Hester Creek Rosé  Cabernet Franctext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Hester Creek Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Meyer Rosetext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Meyer Family Vineyards
Read Full Note
LaStella Lastellina Rosatotext
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$19.00750ml
Producer: LaStella
Read Full Note
50th Parallel Estate Pinot Noir Rosétext
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$18.00750ml
Producer: 50th Parallel Estate
Read Full Note
Haywire Pinot Gris Switchback Vineyard Raised in Concretetext
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$23.00750ml
Producer: Haywire by Okanagan Crush Pad
Read Full Note

08 June 2014

Black Hills Nota Benetext
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$53.00750ml
Producer: Black Hills Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Pierre Amadieu Gigondas Romane-Machotte Rougetext
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$25.00750ml
BC$38.00750ml
Producer: Pierre Amadieu
Read Full Note
Pierre Amadieu Gigondas Romane-Machotte Rosétext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Pierre Amadieu
Read Full Note
Pierre Amadieu Domaine Grand Romane Côtes du Rhône Blanctext
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$15.00750ml
Producer: Pierre Amadieu
Read Full Note
Church & State Wines Quintessentialtext
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$55.00750ml
Producer: Church & State Winery
Read Full Note
Champagne Taittinger Nocturne Rosetext
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$77.00750ml
BC$100.00750ml
AB$90.00750ml
Producer: Champagne Taittinger
Read Full Note
Ironstone Vineyards Obsession Symphonytext
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$17.00750ml
ON$15.00750ml
AB$15.00750ml
MB$14.00750ml
Producer: Ironstone Vineyards
Read Full Note
Baillie-Grohman Récolte Blanctext
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$17.00750ml
Producer: Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Baillie-Grohman Pinot Gristext
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$25.00750ml
BC$20.00750ml
Producer: Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Domaine Piaugier Sablet Côtes de Rhône Villagestext
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$24.00750ml
Producer: Domaine de Piaugier
Read Full Note
Pierre Amadieu Domaine Grand Romane Gigondastext
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$38.00750ml
Producer: Pierre Amadieu
Read Full Note

07 June 2014

CedarCreek Chardonnaytext
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$18.00750ml
Producer: CedarCreek Estate Winery
Read Full Note
CedarCreek Pinot Gristext
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$18.00750ml
Producer: CedarCreek Estate Winery
Read Full Note
CedarCreek Gewürztraminertext
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$15.99750ml
Producer: CedarCreek Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Bodega Atamisque Serbal Sauvignon Blanctext
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$19.00750ml
Producer: Bodega Atamisque
Read Full Note
Miopasso Primitivotext
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$19.00750ml
Producer: Miopasso
Read Full Note
M. Chapoutier Marius Terret Vermentino text
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$15.00750ml
Producer: M. Chapoutier
Read Full Note

04 June 2014

Champagne Taittinger Brut Reservetext
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$74.99750ml
Producer: Champagne Taittinger
Read Full Note

03 June 2014

Cherry Tart Pinot Noirtext
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$30.00750ml
Producer: One True Vine (Layer Cake)
Read Full Note
Rudolf Muller Bunny Rieslingtext
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$14.00750ml
Producer: Rudolf Muller
Read Full Note

02 June 2014

Fonseca Quinta do Panascaltext
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$80.00750ml
AB$75.00750ml
Producer: Fonseca Guimaraens
Read Full Note
Gérard Bertrand Aigle Royal Chardonnaytext
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$95.00750ml
QC$70.00750ml
Producer: Gérard Bertrand
Read Full Note
Masi Campofiorintext
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$20.00750ml
AB$23.00750ml
ON$19.00750ml
QC$21.00750ml
SK$23.00750ml
MB$20.00750ml
NS$20.00750ml
BC$12.00750ml
NB$23.00750ml
NF$22.50750ml
PEI$21.00750ml
Producer: Masi Agricola
Read Full Note
Taylor Fladgate Very Old Single Harvest Porttext
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$280.00750ml
Producer: Taylor Fladgate Partnership
Read Full Note
William Fèvre Chablis Champs Royauxtext
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$27.99750ml
ON$20.00750ml
QC$22.00750ml
Producer: Domaine William Fevre
Read Full Note
Clos du Soleil Capellatext
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$24.90750ml
Producer: Clos du Soleil Winery
Read Full Note
James Mitchell Cabernet Sauvignontext
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$22.00750ml
MB$21.00750ml
AB$20.00750ml
Producer: James Mitchell Winery
Read Full Note
The Beach House Sauvignon Blanctext
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$12.00750ml
AB$13.00750ml
SK$13.00750ml
MB$12.00750ml
ON$10.00750ml
NB$12.50750ml
Producer: DGB
Read Full Note
The Beachhouse Redtext
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$13.00750ml
ON$10.00750ml
NS$12.00750ml
PEI$13.00750ml
AB$13.00750ml
SK$13.00750ml
MB$12.00750ml
Producer: DGB
Read Full Note
Sumac Ridge Cabernet Merlot Private Reservetext
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$13.99750ml
AB$15.50750ml
Producer: Sumac Ridge Estate Winery
Read Full Note
Masi Serego Alighieri Possessioni Rossotext
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$17.00750ml
AB$18.50750ml
QC$16.95750ml
ON$15.00750ml
Producer: Masi Agricola
Read Full Note
Masi Brolo Campofiorin Orotext
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$28.99750ml
QC$25.99750ml
AB$20.00750ml
SK$27.00750ml
ON$25.00750ml
NS$29.99750ml
MB$29.99750ml
NFL$27.74750ml
Producer: Masi Agricola
Read Full Note
Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignontext
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$20.00750ml
Producer: Bodegas y Vinedos Valentín Bianchi S.A.
Read Full Note

01 June 2014

William Fèvre Petit Chablistext
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$27.00750ml
MB$28.00750ml
Producer: Domaine William Fevre
Read Full Note