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Tastings: November 2016
30 November 2016
83PTS
Evolve Effervescence NV
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis new charmat (prosecco-style) fizz from Evolve is a dry blend of pinot blanc and chardonnay. A very high level of aggressive bubbles greets, as does a pleasant light apple blossom note before an assertive, crunchy palate, sour crab apple, and bitter pressed pith notes on a short finish.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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29 November 2016
91PTS
Exton Park Brut Reserve NV
EnglandFrom the chalky soils of Hampshire's South Downs, this is a 60/40 blend of pinot noir/chardonnay based on the 2013 vintage with reserve wines from 2011 and 2012. Seventeen months on the lees, the 7 g/l RS is perfectly situated to offset the shearing lemon acidity. Laced with chalky grip, this is a bright, direct and focused fizz that is near the very top of the pack of English sparkling wines.Prices:| UK | $28.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Exton Park Pinot Meunier Rosé NV
EnglandAs far as I know, this is the only 100 percent pinot meunier rosé from England. This dry fizz is from a single vineyard in Hampshire's South Downs, southeast of Winchester. Bright white cherry, youthful strawberry and toasted biscuit on a generous palate, livened with brisk, precise green raspberry acidity and seasoned with lively sea salts. Very impressive.Prices:| UK | $30.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Camel Valley Classic Cuvée Brut 2013
EnglandCornwall's largest winery, this family-owned property have been making wine since 1989. This is equal parts chardonnay/pinot noir/pinot meunier, with shearing lemon pith acidity, green apple and fine toasted biscuit with great fine spices on the finish. A slighter higher dosage and ripe fruit makes this highly accessible and quaffable.Prices:| UK | $28.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Hoffmann & Rathbone Classic Cuvee 2010
EnglandFrom West and East Sussex, this is a blend of 60/30/10 pinot noir/chardonnay/pinot meunier that was whole bunch pressed before resting 48 months on the lees. Toasty apple, light hazelnut, white cherry and a lifted and heightened pithy citrus acidity. Very zippy on the finish. First release of this cuvee, and only 2500 bottles were made. Watch for more from this very promising winery.Prices:| UK | $36.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine J. Laurens Les Graimenous Brut Cremant de Limoux 2014
Roussillon, Sud de France, FranceBright yellow apple, orchard fruits and a crisp, lively acidity mark this Crémant de Limoux from Roussillon. This is a blend of 60/30/5/5 Chardonnay/Chenin/Mauzac/Pinot Noir. A solid, fruity core is painted with honey, based on brioche and lifted with pithy citrus acidity. Serious, and seriously drinkable; well done.Prices:| France | $14.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Exton Park Blanc de Noirs NV
EnglandThis 100 percent pinot noir is Methode Britannique, 15 percent of which is from young vines and the rest from more mature vines. Light pink raspberry, pithy pink grapefruit, with a pretty white cherry floral hue and grippy finish. Bright and brisk on the finish, craving to be paired with food.Prices:| UK | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
La Jara Prosecco Extra Dry Organic NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyCrisp, bright and zesty, with white peach, green apple and lacings of floral. This is the classic Extra Dry category of Prosecco, but much more on the Brut (drier) end. Lime leaf brings a welcome bitter edge to counter the fruit. A lovely example, and - bonus - organic, all at an appealing 11.5 percent.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Ridgeview Marksman Blanc de Blancs Brut 2010
EnglandTight red apple, light pear, red apple and light toast drive this crisp blanc de blancs. This cuvee is one of Ridgeview's wines bottled exclusively for Marks & Spencer, and is far above the normal supermarket brand. Sourced from the chalk soils of the Sussex South Downs and with three years on the lees, this is walking that fine line of maturity with freshness. A shimmer of chalky minerality lingers on the finish.Prices:| UK | $25.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Canella Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG Millesimato 2015
Veneto, ItalyThe vintage date is your first indication that this is higher quality than your regular Prosecco. Delicate pear, subtle white florals, white peach and green apple is joined by an appealing stoniness and brightened with crystalline lemon, finishing pithy and lifted. On the dryer side, and serious enough to take on the dinner table. Well done.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $6.79 | 200ml |
| BC | $48.99 | 1500ml |
| BC | $141.99 | 3000ml |
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89PTS
Domaine Belluard Mont Blanc Brut Zero 2011
Savoie, FranceThis is the first, and probably only, 100 percent gringet you've tried. Dominique Belluard is credited with saving this nearly-extinct indigenous grape. More than half of the gringet in the world is found in their vineyards, with the remainder from small neighbouring plots. This wine comes from the highest part of their biodynamic vineyards, grown on clay and limestone soils. Fermented wild in clay egg and amphora, this traditional method sparkling is zero dosage and has spent three years on the lees. The autolytic character is a striking contrast to the sharp, pithy acidity and light body. Old spice musk florally, perfumed red apple flavours / race green apple crispness, lemon pith, mountain herbs and broken stones are imbued with a brie/lees earthiness. Acidity is racy, driving to a shimmery glow on the finish. Complex. Not an easy wine, but a worthwhile wine.Prices:| BC | $49.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Sommariva Prosecco di Conegliano Prosecco Superiore NV
Veneto, ItalySoft and expansive in the mouth, with peach, pear and melon carried by frothy and brisk mousse, finishing with red grapefruit pith. Alluring anise woven throughout, though the 10g/l RS is showing a bit too much, especially on the finish. If you like your prosecco with a kiss more sweetness, this well-made example will suit.Prices:| BC | $22.49 | 750ml |
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28 November 2016
90PTS
Blue Mountain Gold Label Brut NV
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA long time BC benchmark for bubble, there are many new producers snapping at Blue Mountain’s heels and in particular, its Brut market. Expect a vibrant sparkler with leesy/brioche notes mixed with green apple and nutty citrus aromas that precede its dry, earthy, green apple, lemon/honey flavours. A classy, dry, cool-style sparkler that’s fresh and mineral driven. The latest mix is 56/39/5 pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot gris re-fermented in the bottle. It spends two years on the lees before it is disgorged (March 2013) and kept another six to nine months before release. Pair with oysters, spot prawns or musselsPrices:| BC | $31.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $36.85 | 750ml |
| ON | $28.95 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Fitz Brut Sparkling Wine 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Fitzpatrick family's (ex-CedarCreek) are back in the game with anew sparkling wine project run out of the Greata Ranch estate just north of Summerland. In fact, the 2013, is the 2nd vintage to be released from what is looking like an impressive traditional method sparkling wine program, under the watchful eye of talented Kiwi winemaker Sarah Bain, previously of Burn Cottage and Quartz Reef. This is a 53/47 pinot noir/chardonnay cuvee that spent 27 months in the bottle on its lees. Ripe green apple, lemon, light white cherry anchors the wine amid ample minerality and a brisk, linear, taut fizz albeit a slightly fleshier frame than the inaugural (and very shearing) 2012. It is drinking beautifully now, but will continue to hold for five + years. Impressive start. Respect.Prices:| BC | $32.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Fitz Brut Sparkling Wine 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFitzpatrick Family Vineyards is the latest project of Gordon Fitzpatrick and family, ex-CedarCreek founders/owners. Centred on the family's lakeside Greata Ranch estate between Summerland and Peachland, the project has kicked off with a smart focus on traditional method sparkling wines, with a cadre of bright, lively white and rosé wines to support the portfolio (and one would think, bank account, as they wait the time needed for a proper traditional method fizz project). They've hired appropriately for the task; Kiwi Winemaker Sarah Bain has worked at Burn Cottage and Quartz Reef. Right out of the gate, Fitz Brut 2012 impresses. Approximately two thirds pinot noir / one third chardonnay, this was fermented in neutral oak where it aged for five months, before bottling and 36 months on the lees. Crisp and brisk citrus, green apple, smoked stone and a slip of fine earthy lees are held taut on a shearing palate. Oysters please. The acidity drives this young wine forward to a very racy, pithy white grapefruit finish. Drinking well now, but has the structure to age very well. A very welcome addition to the burgeoning BC sparkling wine scene.Prices:| BC | $32.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Fitz Brut Sparkling Wine 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFitzpatrick Family Vineyards is the latest project of Gordon Fitzpatrick and family, ex-CedarCreek founders/owners. Centred on the family's lakeside Greata Ranch estate between Summerland and Peachland, the project has kicked off with a smart focus on traditional method sparkling wines, with a cadre of bright, lively white and rosé wines to support the portfolio (and one would think, bank account, as they wait the time needed for a proper traditional method fizz project). They've hired appropriately for the task; Kiwi Winemaker Sarah Bain has worked at Burn Cottage and Quartz Reef. Right out of the gate, Fitz Brut 2012 impresses. Approximately two thirds pinot noir / one third chardonnay, this was fermented in neutral oak where it aged for five months, before bottling and 36 months on the lees. Crisp and brisk citrus, green apple, smoked stone and a slip of fine earthy lees are held taut on a shearing palate. Oysters please. The acidity drives this young wine forward to a very racy, pithy white grapefruit finish. Drinking well now, but has the structure to age very well. A very welcome addition to the burgeoning BC sparkling wine scene.Prices:| BC | $32.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Bella Sparkling Rosé Westbank Gamay Reserve 2013
West Kelowna, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOnly thirty cases were released of this Reserve Gamay fizz, a traditional method sparkling that spent three years on the lees. Sourced from the volcanic soils of Beaumont Winery in Westbank, this was destemmed and pressed, sulphured only once after the first ferment three years ago, and with zero dosage. Tight, focused and salty, with fine and direct form coloured with light wild strawberries and delicate cherry notes. A severe style, tempered only slightly by a light sheen of lees. This is an ongoing progression of style, grape and terroir from BC's sparkling specialist.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Averill Creek Brut 2010
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaEstate pinot noir and pinot gris was barrel fermented and aged sur lie in French oak for one year before undergoing secondary fermentation at Kelowna's Summerhill Pyramid Winery. Ample smoked stones, smoked pear, frizzed lemon peel, shearing acidity and a swath of oxidative notes leave this disjointed at present. Watch this wine in the future, and for more high quality, traditional method bubble. This is a project that requires and rewards patience.Prices:| BC | $42.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Averill Creek Charme de L'ile NV
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaPinot gris and pinot noir are branded under the Charme de L'ile name, signifying Charmat method fizz, from Island grapes. This is a beauty example, fresh and finessed far beyond your typical Proscecco-styled wine. Light florals, crisp pear, green apple and ample minerality on the lively palate. Kissed with honey and an herbal savoury note on the zesty finish. Fantastic value, very impressive.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Unsworth Vineyards Charme De L'ile NV
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaPinot noir makes up half of this Cowichan Valley charmat, with pinot gris and sauvignette making up the remainder. This is packaged under the Island-shared Charme de L'ile branding. Crisp, tight yellow apple and light stone is kissed with pear blossom and a hint of anise before a zesty finish. A great style of sparkling for the heat of summer, enjoy with canapés on the patio. Enjoyable, liberally.Prices:| BC | $29.90 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Serendipity Sparkling Truth 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFrom Naramata's Serendipity Winery, this traditional method 100% chardonnay spent 16 months on the lees. Crisp lemon and smoked stone override herbal grass, with yellow apple, orange blossom and pear skin. Pleasantly dry, with riffing acidity throughout. Confident and assertive, this fuller fizz can take on roasted poultry.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Rocky Creek Katherine's Sparkle Brut 2014
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaKatherine’s Sparkle is tank fermented using a variety of grapes including pinot gris, ortega, kerner, muller thurgau and a selection of Blattner whites. The bubble attack is soft and fruity with bright, floral, apple, honey and litchi aromas. The mid-palate acidity is bright to support the fresh green apple and lemon notes in the background. A fun, simple sipper for pre-dinner bites.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Blue Mountain Brut Rosé R.D. Méthode Traditionelle 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPerfumed roses, wild strawberries and red grapefruit scent this finessed traditional method bubble, a blend of 65/35 pinot noir/chardonnay. Whole cluster pressed, these were fermented in stainless before blending and three years on the lees before another year in bottle before release (this was disgorged in August 2015). Softly sweet, with light raspberry, perfumed rhubarb and a touch of anise colouring the lifted, bright frame. Vibrant and zippy on the snappy finish.Prices:| BC | $32.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $39.95 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Blue Mountain Reserve Brut R.D. Méthode Traditionelle 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis 50/50 blend of 2008 pinot noir and chardonnay was disgorged in August 2015, after 6.5 years on the lees and an additional year in the bottle. Impressive numbers, but this exceptional wine starts in the vineyard, with Okanagan Falls estate fruit whole cluster pressed, and fermented separately in stainless before blending. Complex and concentrated with light dough, nuts and piercing lemon peel. A very complete palate will only get better with bottle development. Great verve and drive throughout to the vibrating finish. One for drinking now, or for the cellar.Prices:| BC | $39.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $49.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Blue Mountain Blanc de Blancs R.D. Méthode Traditionelle 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWe love the finessed here in what is a linear chardonnay that spends 5.5 years on its lees before another year's rest in the bottle. It opens with smoked stone, toasted nut and bright citrus notes preview an intense Granny smith and toasted almonds flavours sitting over a gently cushioned palate - one focused and pure through its vibrant finish. Lean and lemon-led, it is a natural for oysters — first class.Prices:| BC | $39.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $49.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Narrative XC Method by Okanagan Crush Pad NV
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaXC is a charmat method (tank fermented) 60/40 blend of pinot noir and chardonnay sourced from Oliver's Secrest Mountain Vineyard and Summerland's Watkins Family Vineyard. In this case the tank is set on its side, reminiscent of a Champagne bottle during its secondary ferment, increasing the lees to juice contact. Lively and off-dry, fresh and clean this red apple, ripe pear bubble with a toasted brioche base is simply fun to drink. A riff of mandarin acidity works to offset the RS here, though pleasant pear / orange blossom notes remain. Treve Ring has nailed its demeanour calling it “a grown up, and local, variant of Prosecco.” All hail diversity and winemakers, Jordan Kubek and Matt Dumayne.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Narrative Ancient Method by Okanagan Crush Pad 2015
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAn exciting wine, in numerous ways. This is from OCP's brand new Garnet Valley Ranch site, a 126 purpose-planted organic vineyard and farm planted in conjunction with Pedro Perra. The pinot noir vines in this wine sit between 600-680m altitude, the highest elevation vineyard in the Okanagan Valley. This pet nat is wild yeast fermented in concrete, and bottled during primary fermentation (ancestral method). Yeast-led nose, with light pear blossoms underneath. Crisp pear, pear skin lead the lively and vibrant palate, setting off a round core and ample riff of stones humming on the finish. Young, pleasant and quenching; exactly as it should be (save for the price). An exciting site and project to watch.Prices:| BC | $39.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Bella Wines Orchard House Vineyard 2015
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRed apples, orange pith, light smoke, scents this crisp sparkling from Naramata's Orchard House Vineyard, located at the southern base of Munson Mountain. Perhaps reflective of the warm 2015 vintage, this shows more fruit generosity than other wines in Bella's queue. That said, it's a shy, subtle fruit, and still a huge whack of shearing pithy acidity, both jostling for position at present, leaving the whole a bit disjointed at the moment. Only 30 cases made this year.Prices:| BC | $25.90 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Evolve Pink Effervescence NV
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPinot blanc and müller-thurgau come together in this new blush-hued charmat sparkler from Evolve. Candied strawberry and a faux-powdered fruit note dominate the short, brusque palate. Bubbles are assertive and the acidity crunchy. Not as delicate as the name, or label would indicate.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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25 November 2016
88PTS
Flaibani Pinot Grigio 2013
Friuli-Venezia Giulia, ItalyPino Flaibani owns five hectares of steep, terraced, hilltop vineyards, makes one wine, and this blush pinot grigio is it. As in the traditional Friulian way, this was left on the skins for a few hours, imparting the characterful copper blush hue (much like the label). A silken palate brings light florals, gentle peach blossom and lifted acidity, with the extended skin contact providing a lick of texture and interest. A charming example, and a nice offset to commercial Italian pinot grigio.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Averill Creek Vineyard Pinot Gris 2014
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaImpressive pinot gris that sings of cool climate, with a zing of bright citrus interwoven with white pepper, meadow honey, apricot kernel and perfumed Asian pear on a bed of creamy lees, the latter the result of fermentation and aging on lees in French oak for a year. The palate is gently round and flaxen, while the finish is savoury and salted. All this and 13 percent alcohol? Fringe winemaking pays off.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Haywire Pinot Gris Secrest Mountain Vineyard 2015
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFrom the limestone-laced Secrest Mountain Vineyard in Oliver, this organically-farmed pinot gris was wild yeast fermented and aged in concrete tanks. Broad and wide, perhaps reflective of the warm 2015 vintage, with dusty herbs, persimmon, creamy pear and yellow apple floating on a creamy leesy cushion. A gentle swell of acidity works hard to carry the orchard fruit to the tropical fruit-fed finish. Missing the hallmark acidity of previous vintages, and hope to find it again in future vintages.Prices:| BC | $22.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Singletree Pinot Gris 2015
Fraser Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIt’s hard not to be impressed by this simple, well made gris that has a deliciousness quotient well above its price. The texture is round and mouthfilling without being cloying. There’s a hint of lees and that concrete mineral character that brings some complexity to what can be a very simple grape. Spicy with a mix of tropical fruit and ripeness, this is a fun wine to sip. Only 200 cases produced.Prices:| BC | $19.04 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Vino Grigio 2015
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA repeat of 2014, but with all the warm weather of 2015 it appears even sweeter. Honey, ripe apples and sweet pears mark the nose, making it pleasant enough, but it lacks the zip we look for in white, especially north of the 49th. Sweet grapefruit and honey with baked apple round out the soft finish. Ready to drink and we recommend spicy dishes to tone down the sweetness.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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24 November 2016
89PTS
Haywire Free Form Natural and Unfiltered White 2015
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFree Form wines have floaties in the bottle, reflective of their zero cellar intervention. This is natural wine, through the lens of Haywire winemaker Matt Dumayne and global wine consultant Alberto Antonini. This is a direct reflection (no additives or removals) of Summerland's Waters & Banks Vineyard. Wild yeast fermented in stainless steel, this spent nine months on the skins before being pressed unfiltered. Piercing sweet lemon sauvignon with pear oil, gooseberry, elderflower meadow grasses and saline notes glide atop a base of river stones. Green asparagus weaves throughout, as does a medicinal herbal grip. A gentle sweetness on the finish. Watch this adventuresome project.Prices:| BC | $34.90 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Haywire Waters and Banks Sauvignon Blanc 2015
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNamed for the Summerland vineyard owned by Terry Waters and Cathy Banks, this sauvignon blanc has renown soil scientist Pedro Parra and global consultant Alberto Antonini. Whole bunch pressed and wild yeast fermented in concrete tanks for seven months on the lees. At this young stage it benefits from airtime, but in a few months will transform; all the components are there, in depth. Confident lemon thistle, desert thyme and potent sage are filtered through a creamy, lees-lined base, led with alluring wild flowers, clementine pith and lightly smoked fennel. Rampant salty minerality throughout, this wine reinvents itself with time in the glass and temperature. Intriguing, challenging and rewarding.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Matanzas Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2015
Sonoma County, California, United StatesMatanzas Creek sauvignon under screw cap - oh my, what is next? A fresher than ever, leaner style continues to give this wine an edge in a sea of soft, fat sauvignon. The wine is fermented for two to three weeks in stainless steel; 20 percent was fermented in neutral oak barrels. The nose remains expressive, showing mixing grapefruit, guava and nectarine aromas with dried herbs. There is some sémillon (grass) and a musqué clone (floral) in the mix. Overall it is dry and crisp with a touch of bitterness for complexity. The fruit itself comes off some 38 plus blocks each individually harvested, fermented and kept separate for the tasting table. A fine effort in a warm year.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Henri Bourgeois Sancerre Les Baronnes 2015
Loire, FranceReliable, solid, dependable. The nose is aromatic and intense with a jalapeno/passionfruit lead before bits of gooseberry and lemongrass. The palate is similar with citrus, lemongrass, dried herbs and gooseberry flavours. Crisper than California but softer than New Zealand. Shellfish is the ticket here.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $27.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.00 | 750ml |
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23 November 2016
93PTS
Concha y Toro Terrunyo Entre Cordilleras Block 27 Carmenere Puemo Vineyard Lot No. 1 2400 Bottles 2013
Puemo, Valle del Cachapoal, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileRe-tasted after another year in bottle and this wine remains special if not more. Only 2400 bottles bear the Lot No. 1 moniker, a Limited Edition selection from the heart of Peumo. Six months in wood has given this wine lungs and at three years in the bottle it remains fresh and floral. The attack is warm and spicy with spicy, black cherry, tobacco and chocolate notes but with a sense of elegant you don’t see in most carmenère. The finish is long and persistent with an elegant savoury twist that reminds of Bolgheri. Think lamb now or as we said last time think big and wait a decade for what should be an extraordinary bottle. Super value.Prices:| ON | $40.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Concha y Toro Marqués de Casa Concha Carmenere 2012
Puemo, Valle del Cachapoal, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileThis Peumo carmenere surprises in many ways, not the least of which with value for price. Earthy, green herbal notes, with blackcurrant, ripe black cherry and a salty, almost seaweed, flickering throughout. Green coffee, cedar boughs, cranberry, anise, bay leaf all contribute interesting complexity here, far beyond what I was expecting. Fresh, medium bodied and drinkable now, especially with grilled meats over an open flame.Prices:| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Concha y Toro Terrunyo Entre Cordilleras Block 27 Carmenere Puemo Vineyard 2013
Puemo, Valle del Cachapoal, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileConcha Y Toro has zeroed in on Puemo region as the pivotal site for its top carmenère following in the shadows of Carmín del Peumo. The latest Block 27 remains dense and fresh with fine-grained chalky tannins, peppery dry red and black fruit with a savoury dusting of dried herbs. The finish is fresh with some acidity busting up the pepper and youthful tannins. Needs a piece of roasted meat now, or five more years in the cellar. Well done.Prices:| ON | $29.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Emiliana Eco Balance Carmenere Organic Wine 2014
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileFragrant peppery nose with menthol, dried leaves and cassis aromas. The entry is round and supple with some peppery, menthol, savoury, tobacco and black cherry flavours. A solid mid-week red with balance you can pair with grilled meats or even big chicken dishes. Good value organically certified red.Prices:| BC | $13.49 | 750ml |
| YK | $14.40 | 750ml |
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22 November 2016
90PTS
Monte del Frà Ca del Magro Custoza Superiore 2012
Verona, Veneto, ItalyFragrant honeysuckle leaps from the glass of this white blend from the hills of Custoza, a small hamlet in the commune of Sommacampagna, south-east of Lake Garda. The Ca’ del Magro vineyard is over 40 years old, and a blend of garganega, trebbiano toscano, tocai friulano, cortese, chardonnay, riesling italico, malvasia and incrocio manzoni. This spends 6-8 months on full lees in stainless steel. Lush and full bodied, with rosewater, honey, ripe quince, baked golden delicious apples and Asian pear. Tangerine freshness counters the ripe weight of the fruit, landing at a pleasant 13 percent alcohol and fine ginger spicing on the finish. A lovely full and complete wine to pour when you'd like a richer, fragrant wine with acidity. Try with glazed duck.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Vivacious 2015
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe ripest version yet, which I suppose some love, but the sweet flavours make it difficult to discern anything much more than the sugar. Fresh, ripe, red apple with a dusting of honeysuckle on the nose. The attack is off-dry and smooth with ripe red apples, mixed with sweet peaches and pears and a touch of bitterness and cloying fruit flavours in the finish. Vivacious is mostly pinot blanc mixed with a dash of pinot gris, all home grown on the Home Lot Vineyard on the Naramata Bench. Try this with a favourite curry dish or even barbecue ribs.Prices:| BC | $17.30 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Vixen 2015
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVixen is a late harvest blend of 52/28 pinot blanc and pinot gris that reflects a generous, warm, vintage pushing this edition toward an auslese-style German riesling. Rich, ripe almost candied apple mark the nose and plate. Bright rich, poached pear flavours drizzled with honey and cinnamon spice and much like last year a fat sweet, almost icewine-like finish. A perfect match for your favourite fruit crumble albeit with a little less acid than we would prefer.Prices:| BC | $17.30 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Crowsnest Family Reserve Cuvee No. 3 2015
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCuvée number three is a pleasing mix of chardonnay, pinot gris and pinot auxerrois. The style is easy-sipping, soft and fruity with a dose of residual sugar. Expect a ripe palate of peaches, baked apples and dried apricots. Serve well chilled as an aperitif or with a spicy Thai curry dish.Prices:| BC | $18.95 | 750ml |
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21 November 2016
91PTS
Zenato Recioto della Valpolicella Classico 2010
Veneto, ItalyRecioto originates in “recia”, meaning ear, and describing the the top part of the bunches that enjoy the best sun exposure. Here corvina, rondinella and oseleta are dried over five months and pressed at the end of February before a three week ferment in horizontal stainless tanks prior to two years in oak barriques. Burnished brown sugar, carmelized plums, dried figs, tobacco, hints of reduced balsamic, cardamom and old wood in this very sweet-meets-savoury Recioto della Valpolicella. Classicly old school and perfectly so, with well placed, firm acidity lifting the concentrated fruit. Complex and alluring through a very lengthy finish. Take with a cheese plate or ripe figs and blue cheese.Prices:| BC | $69.00 | 500ml |
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89PTS
Villalta Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2012
Veneto, ItalyFamily owned for 150 years, the winery is now bridging its forth and fifth generations. From the steep limestone laced slopes of the single I Comunali vineyard, this appassimento wine is corvina, rondinella, molinara and five percent local grape varieties, all dried for four months before a long stainless ferment, two years in Slavonian oak and three months in bottle prior to release. Subtle dried plum, dried fig aromas turn expressive on the velveteen palate, joined by a fine current of dried violets, cassis and dusty stone. The acidity is bright throughout, though tannins are sticky and finish drying. Classic, structured and opulent, well suited to rich beef cheeks with polenta, or bistecca di cavallo.Prices:| BC | $65.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tedeschi Capitel San Rocco Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso 2013
Pedemonte Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, ItalyThis ripasso is from 20 year old corvina, rondinella, moliara and rossignola from Valpolicella's clay and limestone Moraine Hills. After clarification and fermentation in stainless, this spent six months in Slavonian oak. Autumnal, this is thick with baked beans, dried leather, sweet anise, dried tobacco, spice box and dark chocolate cocoa. Soft, plush and sticky on the concentrated palate, with a gentle lift of perfumed violet acidity to try and counter. Balsamic reduction on the finish. Nice structure in what is oft an overblown, underwhelming wine style.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Masi Frescaripa Bardolino Classico 2014
Veneto, ItalyFrescaripa is in reference to the hillside vineyards surrounding the Bardolino Classico zone, moderated by Lake Garda. This is corvina, rondinella and molinara; brisk cherry, leather leads this lighter bodied red, with blackcurrant, thorny roses and firm, but fine tannins. Leather cushions the palate, while crunchy white pepper seasons it. Balsamic lingers on the finish. Easy, bright, charming red, ideal for spaghetti with fresh tomatoes or a light mushroom risotto.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Zenato Cresasso Corvina Veronese 2010
Verona, Veneto, ItalyPretty, floral violet, black cherry, wild blueberry fragrance float above a compact base of cassis, black plum and cherry jam. Tannins are ample, but fine, with moderate stickiness, and acidity is moderate and persistent. Relatively fresh and textured, considering its 15.5 percent alcohol. Cresasso is a single-vineyard corvina veronese blend grown at 300 metres on hillsides of chalk, stones and clay. The harvest is done in two phases: the first pick, in the second half of September, the grapes are picked ripe, and left to dry for two months before stainless fermentation for 20 days and then large oak casks for 24 months. The second half is picked overripe at the end of October, and fermented for almost a month in stainless steel on the skins before 18 months in French oak barrels.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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18 November 2016
91PTS
Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc Oakville 2013
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe Oakville Sauvignon Blanc, known famously as Fumé Blanc, is a 79/21 mix of sauvignon blanc and sémillon with some vines closing in on 50 years in the ground. The nose is almost shockingly fresh, alive with lemon verbena, lime blossom, wet stone and savoury fennel flavours throughout its creamy textures. Balanced yet persistent it sweeps across the palate with verve from front to back. You hardly notice that 91% of the wine is barrel fermented, but while the oak is subdued the complexity Is not. A delicious wine for west coast shellfish, veal or the classic goat cheese match.Prices:| BC | $47.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $44.75 | 750ml |
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98PTS
Penfolds Grange Bin 95 Shiraz 2012
South Australia, AustraliaIn my estimation, Grange 2012 Bin 95 is certainly the most complete, young Grange ever released and wine that frankly surpasses anything founder Max Schubert could have ever imagined. As thrilling as the boisterous 2010 may be, it doesn’t have that Euro charm and finesse that the 2012 exudes at such a young age. Balance is the lead attribute of this multi-regional blend that is an essay in textural perfection, something that will help place it among the recent greats such as 1986, '96 '04, '06 and '10. The blend is 98/2 shiraz/cabernet sauvignon from a mix of Barossa and McLaren vale sites with the requisite 18 months in 100% new American oak hogsheads. Rich, glossy, chalky tannins are the foundation of this almost red fruited edition of Grange that will age gracefully for the next five decades and beyond. In a rare occurrence, after the exchange rate, Grange 2012 is selling for about 20 percent less in Canada than the United States. Properly stored, and if checked 25 years down the road at a Penfolds Re-Corking clinic, it could keep well past 2070.Prices:| BC | $745.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $499.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $450.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Paul Jaboulet Aîné Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Cedres 2011
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceLes Cedres is an 80/10/10 grenache, cinsault and mourvèdre grown over several different terroirs using bio-dynamic practices. The grenache comes off the clay and limestone terraces, the mourvèdre is on sand while the cinsault pokes through the large rounded river rocks they call galets. The 2011 vintage looks to be an early drinker. Expect rich black cherry and raisiny notes on the nose and palate. The texture is soft with a wild game, pepper, garrigue finish. Drink now or keep for 3-5 years.Prices:| BC | $48.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $39.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $43.25 | 750ml |
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17 November 2016
88PTS
Haywire Gamay Noir Secrest Mountain Vineyard 2015
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaYouthful, ample cherry and black raspberry fruit, this Secrest Vineyard gamay reaffirms that the grape has a strong future in BC. Juicy and bright, with salted anise, forest floor, light wood smoke and flaked salts fills out a lively palate, one hemmed in with fine, mellow tannins. Deeper, duskier style, showing a bit of sweetness but still very fresh. The good news is partial whole bunch and eleven months on lees, in concrete, ups the complexity. Youthful and primed for drinking now with pork tenderloin or wild mushroom salads. Solid.Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Haywire Pinot Noir (Raised in Concrete) 2014
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCool, mossy forest floor tones with earthy/raspberry notes throughout this Secrest Vineyard pinot noir, part of Haywire's white label line, wild yeast fermented and raised in concrete for about a year. Pretty, youthful raspberry and strawberry are centre stage on the palate, propped up with pink peppercorn spicing and powdery fine tannins. this was aged in concrete tank for almost a year before bottle. A light puff of smoke chimes in on the finish. This is youthful, honest pinot noir, ideal for your grilled Portobello or salmon burger..Prices:| BC | $26.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Jekel Pinot Noir 2014
Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesFounded in 1972 by Bill Jekel, a Monterey pioneer. The AVA was struck in 1984 and the relentless cool winds have made this a riesling, chardonnay and pinot noir paradise. Look for a classic cool climate pinot nose with savoury notes of cherries up front. The palate is soft and round with more earthy, forest floor flavours. A solid introduction, if a bit warm, for pinot noir newbies. Try this with grilled chicken.Prices:| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
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16 November 2016
92PTS
Pietradolce Etna Bianco 2015
Erice, Sicily, ItalyFrom one of the top producers in Sicily, this is carricante (carico means 'burdened' which refers to the abundant fruit on these bush vines) 800m above sea level on the sandy loam northern slopes of Mount Etna. This was vinified and matured in stainless steel, preserving the pure fruit and the electric acidity of volcanic Etna. White asparagus leads ample salty minerality, broken stones, herbal lees and brisk lemon pith/peel on this light/medium bodied, structural and defined frame. Profound, with appealing angularity and intriguing complexity, this drinks beautifully now in youth, but will reward further with time in the cellar.Prices:| BC | $25.49 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Quinta da Murta Bucelas 2013
Bucelas, Lisboa, Central and Southern Portugal, PortugalBucelas, northeast of Lisbon, is one of the most famous dry whites regions of Portugal. It was here that arinto was first cultivated by the Romans 2000 years ago, and where the grape still shines today, with the coastal limestone and marl soils ideally suited to this local citrus and herbal driven white. Quinta da Murta's biodynamic vineyards are located around 250m in the chalky hills. After a spell of skin contact and gentle pressing, this light bodied white was tank fermented on full lees for up to six months, resulting in crisp, saline-brisk lemon, pine nuts and hay woven amidst finely creamy lees. Subtly textural, humming with acidity, with ample saline notes on the lingering finish (a beauty 12.5 percent). Tastes of the sea; pairs with oysters, gooseneck barnacles or any fresh shellfish. Drinking beautifully now, and with capacity to age. Fantastic value.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
ColleStefano Verdicchio di Matelica 2015
Marche, ItalyThis is verdicchio from the mountains of Matelica, grown organically since 1995. Whole bunch pressed before ferment and aging in stainless steel, this bright, lighter white is lined with herbal lees. Key lime, tight white peach, green fig and youthful pear is washed with stones and bristled with mountain acidity. A rinse of lime lingers on the finish. A beaut for any seafood, especially grilled sardines.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Vietti Moscato d'asti Cascinetta 2015
Piedmont, ItalySurprisingly concentrated, ripe and round for five percent alcohol, this is a premium Moscato d'asti selected from 40-year-old vines in Vietti's vineyards in Castiglione Tinella. Select grapes undergo extended maturation before pressing and clarification, after which the must is stored without sulfites at cool temperatures. Just before bottling, yeast is added, as is a rise in temperature, for fermentation in autoclave. When the alcohol reaches 5.5%, the fermentation is stopped by lowering the temperature, preserving the pure fruit character. Just a slight prickle on the palate lifts ripe gooseberry, kiwi, fleshy apricot, rosewater and muscat's characteristic and pretty grapey sweetness. A key lime blossom acidity keeps things fresh, while a dusting of fine ginger spicing closes the finish. A serious wine for all of its delicacy, ready for your glazed fruit tarts or angel food cake.Prices:| BC | $31.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Pietradolce Etna Bianco 2015
Erice, Sicily, ItalyPietradolce Bianco is new wine that sits on one of Europe’s highest volcanoes in Solicchiata, Etna at some 1000 metres above sea level. The site, as you might suspect, is all about terroir but in the case of Pietradolce, the 2015 Etna Bianco is all carricante fruit from younger vines in the Contrada Rampante. The stainless steel fermented white has a bright, floral, fragrant demeanour with nutty/citrus/yellow fruit flavours punctuated by acidity and stony minerality.Prices:| BC | $25.49 | 750ml |
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15 November 2016
89PTS
Fort Berens White Gold 2014
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaWhite Gold is sourced from Similkameen’s Blind Creek Vineyard. The nose is a mix of tropical fruits including guava, mango and pineapple, with lemongrass and citrus notes on top. There is plenty of ripeness here, expressed by flecks of honey on the palate but it is tempered by a dose of stony, citrus, mineral Similkameen notes. White Gold is a selection of the best chardonnay barrels, all barrel fermented and barrel aged for 10 months, but there is no new oak in the mix. A great match for a creamy risotto or an oven roasted chicken stuffed with lemons and rosemary. Good value.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Fort Berens Chardonnay 2015
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2015 is all estate (Lillooet) fruit that gets a brush of oak to fill in the texture of the mid-palate. The nose is fresh with bits of peaches, lemongrass, citrus and smoky toasted notes. The attack is fresh mixing tropical fruit with flecks of vanilla and butter. Half the wine is fermented and aged in a mix of new and old French oak barrels; the other half was fermented in stainless steel. Three different yeasts were used to pull out a rich flavour spectrum. We love the freshness and savoury dried herbs that poke through the dry finish. Seems a little more Lillooet this year which is a good thing.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Concha y Toro Marqués de Casa Concha Chardonnay 2014
Valle del Limari, ChileWow. This cooler climate Limari Valley chardonnay will impress those who have mistakenly written Chile off. Here in the Quebrada Seca Vineyard, the cool coastal breezes and the 190m altitude both contribute to the freshness of this concentrated, full bodied white. Calcium-clad clay is base for the three chardonnay clones, which were whole-cluster pressed and fermented in oak vats before barrel aging for 11 months. Toast, green apple and cream is laced with bright salted lemon, fine earthy lees and a lingering vibrant lemon pith. This bottle gets even better over the course of the evening, and will also impress with a year or two in the cellar. Winemaker Marcelo Papa shows his skill and knowledge of terroir again here, and at a fantastic price.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Soumah Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2015
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaThis sustainably farmed chardonnay is from the Warramate foothills of Victoria's upper Yarra Valley. This is a mix of three clones, wild fermented and aged in a mix of oak barriques and puncheons (20 percent new) for a layover of eight months. Earthy throughout, with an alluring reductive edge, salty, wild herbs, and brisk white grapefruit pith brightening a leesy, green fig core. Tight, driven and focused, this finessed wine has energy enough to enjoy very much now in youth, or to hold for the future.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2013
Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaThe wine that has famously been called "Australia's best chardonnay", this royal, refined Margaret River chardy certainly impresses. Partial skin contact and partial wild yeast, this was entirely barrel fermented in new French oak barriques with regular lees stirring for 11 months. Rich, almost thick in the mouth, creamy and lees-led, with flickers of eraser/reduction, stone fruits, lemon curd and roasted almonds streamed along a vein of lemon acidity. Oak is certainly evident, though well integrated into the depth of all this fruit, and the concentration is even more impressive considering its 13.5 percent alcohol. Drinking well now in its young age, but will hold and mature over the next decade easy. Cellar-worthy, if you can afford it.Prices:| BC | $126.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Monte Creek Ranch Chardonnay 2015
British Columbia, CanadaFresh, simple, fruity nose with bits of citrus and green apple. The attack is light and lean with more lemon and green apple, and some bitterness in the back end. Simple stuff for vegetarian pizza, or chicken salads.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Hardys VR Chardonnay 2015
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaI wouldn’t consider this new wave Oz chardonnay. The nose is perfumed with sweet ripe peach notes. The palate is more or less the same with sweet peach, melon flavours and a touch of candied tangerine peel. Old-fashioned and in need of a style update.Prices:| BC | $8.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $9.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Banrock Station Unwooded Chardonnay 2015
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaAt this price point you have to be happy with the fruit and the acidity here. Simple, soft stone fruit aromas and flavours dominate, with a touch of creamy butter and spice in the finish. Soft, round, easy sipping white to be served well chilled.Prices:| BC | $11.52 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Crowsnest Family Reserve Stahltank Chardonnay 2015
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLike a lot of 2015 whites there is a fair amount of summer sweetness in this wine. Some will like that while others get bored quickly. Mineral, orange, sweet red apple aromas dominate here, but it all ends with an even sweeter finish. Serve this well chilled and consider using it with spicy Indian, Thai or Chinese food for best results.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Lindemans Bin 65 Chardonnay 2015
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaConsistently clean and fresh, Bin 65 is all about tropical fruit aromas and flavours with enough acidity to keep it fresh. The palate is creamy with bits of orange and sweet pineapple along with peach/grapefruit and a green apple aftertaste. Ready-to-drink party white.Prices:| BC | $10.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $12.50 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.10 | 750ml |
| QC | $12.85 | 750ml |
| NS | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $13.25 | 750ml |
| PEI | $14.50 | 750ml |
| NB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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14 November 2016
87PTS
Dames White 2015
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIn a year when most let the sugar run away, ‘rookie’ winemaker Mireille Sauve took the lean and streamlined view with her blend of pinot blanc, riesling and gewürztraminer. Gently scented with white florals and styled with streams of lemon, bitter melon and pithy grapefruit, it sets up well for seafood. There are some bitter grapefruit notes in the tart finish but all in all this wine is Dame fine. The white, and its red partner, were created to benefit Les Dames d'Escoffier and scholarship programs for women in the BC food and beverage industry.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Raats Family Original Chenin Blanc Unwooded 2014
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaTight and pithy lemon, white grapefruit and yellow apple overlay a bed of broken stones in this chenin blanc, grown on decomposed granite and Table Mountain sandstone. Vines average 35 years old, with both bush vines and dry farmed fruit in the mix. This spends six months on the lees in stainless, preserving the bright, crisp fruit. Medicinal white cherry and pineapple rind echoes on the zesty finish. Keen, youthful and ready to drink now.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Laurenz V. Silver Bullet Grüner 2013
Kamptal, Niederösterreich, Weinland Österreich, AustriaPackaged in a 500ml stelvin bottle, this Silver Bullet stands out off the shelf. From the cool slope side vineyards of Kogelberg, in Kamptal, this grüner veltliner was partially fermented on the skins, and entirely in stainless steel. Earthy lees, white asparagus, light verbena florals and white pepper leads this medium bodied wine, brightened with a zip of citrus acidity and finishing with a dusting of ginger. Very complete on the palate, and can take on numerous dishes, from tuna tataki to spot prawns to asparagus.Prices:| Austria | $23.00 | 500ml |
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86PTS
Thymiopoulos Malagouzia 2015
Central Greece, GreeceWhite peach, seashells, light honey blossom, soft rocks in this light bodied, soft Greek white of malagouzia, one of the indigenous whites of Greece. A wash of briny sea salts reminds of the Mediterranean Sea. This is from an area of central Greece called the Valley of the Muses, a steep sided valley with hot sun tempered by breezes down from Mount Helicon. This wine was blended exclusively for Marks and Spencer.Prices:Read Full Note
86PTS
Unsworth Vineyards Sauvignette Vintners Selection 2015
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaSauvignette is a proprietary name, used at Unsworth, for the epicure grape variety, a Blattner variety VB2 originally planted in Saanich in the late 1990’s. Sylvie Rochette, owner of Epicure Selections in North Saanich, was involved in providing the land to test the variety and in honour of her support of the Valentin Blattner project the VB2 was named Epicure. In the fall of 2015 this wine is coming into its own in the bottle mixing a tight, fresh acidic structure with some barrel ferment character and delicate, citrus, spicy fruit. Dry and nervy with a whiff of vanilla, it’s a tasty pre-dinner sipper.Prices:Read Full Note
89PTS
Bonterra Viognier 2014
Mendocino County - Lake County, California, United StatesIt’s been a decade between tastings for me and this viognier but it has come a long way. The nose is correct, offering floral/peach/orange notes that tumble onto the palate. I love the mid-weight that’s not too cloying and that finishes fresh. An all-organic fruit offering, it comes in at 14.1 percent alcohol but you don’t feel it. Perfect with a chicken curry dish.Prices:| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.95 | 750ml |
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11 November 2016
89PTS
Mission Hill Terroir Collection No. 39 Whispering Hill Organic Merlot 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMission Hill's Terroir Collection is a series of small lot, single vineyard wines. This is from a desert-ringed, certified organic vineyard near Oliver with well-draining, alluvial fan-based soils. Grippy and dusty throughout, with dark black cherries, graphite, perfumed plum, bitter cassis, earthy branch and potent tobacco. Tannins are firm and fine-grained, relaxing and expanding with time in the glass (or decanter). For all of its Ponderosa-pine ruggedness, it retains an air of elegance, even now in youth. Very pure merlot and we are looking forward to watching where this is going in the future under winemaker Darryl Brooker.Prices:| BC | $62.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Qwam Qwmt Merlot 2014
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA long warm growing season was useful for all the late ripening reds in 2014 but the merlot needed watching to keep the fruit and the alcohol in check. The nose is bright here, the tannins supple and sweet. Classic clove over plums and cocoa with a dollop of sagebrush. Surprisingly soft already but this will hold over the next five years. Steak frites anyone?Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Burrowing Owl Merlot 2013
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSoft and welcoming on the nose, with baked black plum, ripe blackberry, and cherry jam. Eighteen months in French, Hungarian and American oak of which 34 percent was new takes quite a bite out the balance and terroir. Even the rich density of Southern Okanagan fruit (which is quite dense) can't match the wood here causing plush tannin to finish bitter. Braised beef is your best bet now or give it another two years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $29.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tinhorn Creek Oldfield Series Merlot 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIntense cassis jam, kirsch, spice nose previews a medium-bodied dusty merlot from Black Sage Bench Diamondback Vineyard. Tannins are ripe and supple, though powdery textured. The French oak (30 percent new) is felt through the ripe, potent fruit, as is the alcohol on the raw, sweetly smoked finish. Somewhat awkward at this early stage, though it would suit heady beef shank.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Dark Pool 2010
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe financial geeks at Laughing Stock are becoming port geeks no doubt ‘fortified’ by their success in the dry, table wine business. Their latest venture is Dark Pool. The name speaks to the its colour but takes its name from an insider financial term for ‘off-exchange platforms’ that allows traders to buy and sell stocks anonymously but now apparently exposed forever by author Michael Lewis in his best seller “Flash Boys.” There are more parallels, winemaker David Enns hid the project from the LFNG team, including his partner and wife Cynthia, leaving it to age in two oak puncheons, hidden in a corner of the winery for over 5 years. The result is a juicy, merlot-based, vintage character, tawny-style port. The colour is medium to dark the nose a lifted affair of cooked raisins and stewed fruits mixed with warm figs and dates. Soft spicy and even a bit nutty it should age for a decade but why wait you can drink it now – just add a fireplace, a book and some toasted almonds. The fortification technique was different. After ageing the original merlot for four years in neutral French puncheons, a local distillery worked the lees from the same merlot block, to create a high proof spirit that was added to the wine. It’s been fortified for over a year and half now.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 500ml |
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89PTS
Stag's Hollow Renaissance Merlot Stag's Hollow Vineyard 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe first vintage of Renaissance Merlot under a screwcap offers immediate benefits on the nose, sharpening the fruit and spice. To further charge the wine approximately 50 percent of the berries were left whole and uncrushed yielding a fresh, juicy momentum upfront. There’s 100 percent French oak used of which half is new, but you don’t feel it. The blend is a 90/10 mix of merlot and cabernet sauvignon, the attack round and the tannins mostly chalky. The flavours are dominated by intense cherries with a warm, savoury, clove undercurrent. Best to hold this until 2020 but if you must drink it now may we suggest roasted meats.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Vivre la Vie 2013
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHeady perfumed black fruits are lifted with a delicate violet perfume in this concentrated, medium/full Naramata Bench merlot. The lift continues on the palate, one based on dense cassis and black plum, but bright with persistent acidity and a lick of balsamic. Tannins are silken, finely edged with bitter espresso, which lingers on the warm, powdery finish. Welcoming, like merlot is meant to be, but with structure and edge enough to suit a steak sandwich.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Crowsnest Family Reserve Merlot 2013
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaQuiet nose of red fruits, leather and clove notes. The attack is round, the weight medium to light. On the palate the fruit is a mix of sour cherries, plums, spice and herbal/leather notes. The style is rustic but would be fine with stews, meat pies and or hamburgers.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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10 November 2016
88PTS
Fort Berens Cabernet Franc 2014
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaMostly Lillooet fruit with a topping of Okanagan grapes make up the source of this full-bodied, concentrated red, full of smoked branch, light hickory and brooding, mossy, dark berries. The attack is super ripe over earthy, roasted red pepper notes and tart black raspberry that linger. Wood notes are evident, though tannins are sanded smooth. Dense and a bit youthful and eager right now, but will settle with time in the bottle. Pour with roast beef now. A promising variety.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tinhorn Creek Cabernet Franc 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe heat of the southern Okanagan sun is felt in this ripe, round and cedar-hewn cabernet franc. Dark chocolate cocoa, mocha and menthol colour this potent, lush red, based on kirsch cherry and sourced from 18 year old vines in Diamondback Vineyard on Black Sage Bench. The long extraction is felt here, as well as the mix of 14-18 months spent in French, American and Hungarian oak. A bit clunky at the moment though would be well suited to ribs.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Black Sage Vineyard Zinfandel 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRoasted earth, charred meats, candied violet perfume pervades this simple big red, one with a mid-palate of cushy, dense and sweet black fruit. Tannins are chalky and drying, leading to a very short, powdery finish. Full and bold, yes, but not resembling much of zinfandel. Best suited to shellacked ribs and a busy party.Prices:| BC | $23.49 | 750ml |
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09 November 2016
89PTS
Escaleras de Empedrado Pinot Noir 2012
Talca, Valle del Claro, Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileRipe, pretty strawberries and youthful raspberries. This is a special project of Miguel Torres Jr., ten years in the making, and this is the inaugural vintage. Escaleras de Empedrado translates as "stoned stairs", hinting to this pinot planted in slate terraces 370m altitude, and in coastal Maule, 26 kilometres from the sea. Planted in 2007, this was aged seven months in French oak barriques before two years bottle rest. Very pretty perfumed floral nose of wild strawberry, young raspberry along with forest floor and moss. Tannins are light and pink peppercorn spices the whole. Fine acidity is humming on the (warming) finish, with trailing smoked salts. Youthful now, this labour of love is an ambitious project that should develop into something very interesting (for those who can afford it).Prices:| BC | $110.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Bethel Heights Vineyard Casteel 2012
Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesThis was the first vintage of Casteel, a barrel select blend from several blocks in Eola-Amity Hills that spent 14 months in French oak, 40 percent of which were new. That wood hewn is still evident on the finish through a gentle flush of warmth, even through the generous baked cherry, floral raspberry, strawberry pie and sapid plum fruit. Tannins are supple, acidity fine but persistent, and the finish bright and spice cake scented. Classic Eola-Amity, this riper pinot benefits from time in the glass and a match with duck.Prices:| USA | $60.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Burrowing Owl Pinot Noir 2014
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSealed with the StelvinLux enclosure (put away your corkscrew), this brick/brown hued, full-bodied pinot noir is from Oliver fruit, cold soaked and fermented in stainless before time in French, American, Hungarian and Russian oak. The élevage (seasoning regime) is evident in the spice box of a wine - from five spice to cloves to black pepper to cedar to cinnamon - and more - all filtered through a dark cherry core. Toasted wood is evident, though tannins are smoothed out, leaving just a lingering vanilla and Worcestershire sauce on the finish. Not shy, this will take on beef dip with horseradish and jus, or duck pot pie. Would love to se this wine with less aggressive oak to set the fruit free.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $39.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $40.95 | 750ml |
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08 November 2016
93PTS
La Spinetta Barbaresco Vigneto Bordini 2007
Piedmont, ItalyIt’s one thing to suggest consumers should age wine at home when you are tasting a vintage (I mean who has the time or the space) but it’s quite another when you taste a wine like Spinetta Barbaresco Bordini after nine years. The south facing vineyard is 4 hectares in size, calcareous in nature, and planted to vines that in 2007 were 20-25 years old at about 270 metres altitude. It’s aged in 50 percent new and one-year-old, medium-toasted French oak for 20 to 22 months. After three months of marriage in stainless steel it is bottled unfiltered and left for another year at the winery. This wine is gorgeous; a picture postcard for aged Barbaresco, it is now red coloured with some orange brick notes and a showy mature nose of floral red berries, umami and spices. The balance is key, lead by silky textures, mature fine grained tannins with just a hint of ripe fruit. Long, complex and food friendly, why wouldn’t you age all you wine before drinking? Braised veal cheeks and/or mushroom risotto are a fabulous match.Prices:| AB | $80.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
De Stefani Kreda 2013
Veneto, ItalyKreda is clay in the local dialect, and makes up the majority of the soil along with sprinkles of Dolomite (caranto). This is Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso (the red stem), one of the varieties of Refosco. It's the traditional red grape of Friuli, but not here in Piave where De Steafni is based, hence the IGT Veneto designation. Picked very late, hand selected grapes are left to dry, before destem, crush and a long maceration prior to stainless steel for wild yeast fermentation. The wine then spends 24 months in barrique before being bottled unfiltered. The winery employs organic and biodynamic principles, with very minimal added sulphites at bottling. Plum, deep violets, wild blueberry, pipe tobacco, whiffs of tar, peppercorns and anise. Ample tannins, finely gritty, finishes dry. This structured wine has presence, and feels fresher than its 15.5 percent. Best with rich truffle or wild mushroom risotto, or duck-sauced polenta. One of the heaviest bottles I have ever come across.Prices:| BC | $48.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Cappellano Barolo Chinato NV
Serralunga, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyIf you're not familiar with Chinato, you can think of it as a sweet, herb-infused version of Barolo. And Barolo's answer to Fernet. And Barolo's version of Vin Santo. And also all entirely its own singular thing. Though many producers in Barolo make their own Chinato, Cappellano invented it in the 1890s, making this the ultimate Barolo Chinato (indeed, one of the most remarkable fortified wines in Italy), and they keep their recipe all in the family. We do know this blends Barolo with spirit that has been soaked in 20-odd spices (notably quinine, hence the name) and sugar. Pouring a murky brown haze, this has potent mint, dusky earth and orange pastille that leaps from the glass and continues on the soft, focused palate. Amply apothecary and understatedly sweet, this showers Seville orange, ripe plum, fig paste, clove, wormwood and concentrated quinine, with powdery tannins and exceptional medicinal orange kissed length. The ultimate digestif?Prices:| BC | $120.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Maccarello Giuseppe E Figlio Monprivato Barolo 2005
Barolo, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyMauro Mascarello has been winemaker for Giuseppe Mascarello since the late 1960s, succeeding his father, Giuseppe, and his grandfather, Maurizio, both legends in their time. In their footsteps, Mauro is a traditionalist dedicated to long fermentations and aging in old botti. However, Mauro has made his own mark on the family estate, namely Monprivato, a highly prized single vineyard Barolo from this special site, recognized as "cru" quality since the 1600s. On these south-west facing chalky marl soils, nebbiolo finds a happy home (the nebbiolo clone first planted here by Maurizio in 1921). Even in this off-classic year, the wine charms with dusty stone, dried cherry, leather and perfumed raspberry notes carrying through to the palate. Lean, but firmly so, with a cushion of medicinal cherry, raspberry and rose petals, all swathed in sueded, tugging tannins. A fine vein of acidity hums throughout, to a lengthy, finely salted finish. Complex and mysterious at this young (at 11 years old) age. If you have this in your cellar, relax and keep it there, it will be fine for another ten years. If you open it now, decant, then enjoy with some aged cheeses or truffled pasta.Prices:| BC | $150.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Elio Grasso Gavarini 2013
Langhe, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyThis nebbiolo is from the sandy, limestone-based soils of Monforte d’Alba, at 350-400m in altitude. An alluring nose of subtle cherry and wild raspberry continues to the medium-bodied palate, where wild roses, cherry and a fine riff of salts intertwine. Tannins are taut, but fine and smoothed, with the tug on the finish reminding you of the grape at hand. A highly approachable, but still highly interesting and rewarding, Langhe for drinking now or in 1-2 years time, especially with truffle-decked pastas or risotto.Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Travaglini Gattinara Riserva 2009
Gattinara, Piedmont, ItalyA shelf standout in the frosted, slumping bottle, this Gattinara Reserva is nebbiolo from rocky, iron-rich hillsides of north east Piedmont. Three years in casks of various sizes before one year in bottle has barely mitigated the tannins of this 2009, still firm, sticky and gritty. An underbelly of tar props up dried roses, cigar, subtle prune, dried cherry and cured lomo, finishing with a lick of mineral salts. The finish, sadly, dries out, leaving these lovely flavours hanging. Best poured with something potent enough to tackle the tannins, such as braised shank.Prices:| BC | $64.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Pierfrancesco Gatto Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato Caresana 2014
Piedmont, ItalyRuché is a native grape of north-eastern Piedmont, and was the wine reserved for special feasts and celebrations. Ruché Caresana is one of the flagship wines of Gatto, an eight HA family estate from the late 19th century. The sandy / tuffaceous hillside vineyards are between 230-260m and are farmed sustainably, including a mix of organic and biodynamic practices. This is fermented in a mix of stainless and glass-lined cement before time in larger format Slavonian and French oak. Intense white pepper, geranium, wild plum and herbal green raspberry notes open and carry through to the fresh, light bodied palate. Salted dried herbs, cured sweet salami, perfumed rock roses, nutmeg flow throughout, all lifted with a bright, brisk acidity and finishing with ample cracked pepper. An alluring rare beauty, best enjoyed slightly chilled and with an Italian charcuterie platter.Prices:| BC | $27.50 | 750ml |
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91PTS
G. D. Vajra Dolcetto d'Alba 2012
Alba, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyCured meats, black cherry and bullion fill this expressive, deeper-hued dolcetto.The density lining the base of this medium bodied wine is countered by an inherent, pristine freshness, afforded by the altitude (400m), mix of limestone and marl soils, and stainless steel elevage. Ample salted walnut bitterness sharpens the finish, while a mix of worn leather and whiffs of shoe polish shades the form. Wild yeast ferment. A proper, traditional Dolcetto d'Alba, for today. Charcuterie or wild game will suit.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Matteo Correggia Barbera d'Alba 2013
Alba, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyThe 20 HA estate in Roero has been in the Correggia family since 1935, is farmed organically and managed sustainably. South facing, steep hillside vineyards on sandy, mineral rich soils is prized ground for the humble barbera grape, and it is allows the grape to shine here. One year in barrique before another 1.5 years in the bottle, this medium bodied wine is ready to drink now, though will easily hold for another few years in the cellar. Salted black liquorice, black cherry, espresso and dark earth are hemmed in by firm, very fine tannins. Acidity is bright and lifted, ending with a subtle and alluring floral tilt and ample dried salted herbs. Ideal with rabbit pappardelle or sausage and rocket pizza.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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07 November 2016
88PTS
Erasmo 2009
Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileThis dry farmed cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, syrah is from a single vineyard on the ancient estate of la Reserva de Caliboro in Maule Valley, fermented wild and cultivated organically. Twelve months in French oak plus another year in the bottle before being bottled unfiltered has created a softly textured, medium-bodied red. Black plum, slight medicinal cherry, easy dark fruits, leather sit comfortably on tannins worn soft with time. Acidity is still lifted, though not quite enough to counter the drying finish. Pleasant, honest, showing its age; drink now, with pork stews.Prices:| US | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Montes Twins 2013
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileThis 50/50 blend of malbec and cabernet sauvignon is from the Colchagua Valley. Big and assertive, with smoky, rubbery, tar dominating the ripe black fruit. Round and sweeter on the palate, with plush, soft tannins cloaked with a thick layer of wood. Green twinges throughout, chocolate cherries on the warm finish. 4.4g/l RS, best paired with charcoal grilled ribs.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Portfolio +06/10 2014
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaUnder this youthful exuberance there is a dense, concentrated and compact structure to the 2014 Portfolio, one that will reward with some time in cellar. This lush vintage yields a blend of 49 percent merlot, along with cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, malbec and petit verdot sourced from Naramata and Osoyoos. After fermenting in oak and stainless, this spends 19 months in French oak and puncheons (40 percent new). Concentrated blackberry, cassis, black liquorice, sweet spice and dusky perfumed black plum fill this fleshy palate, framed with firm, cedar-lined, sanded tannins. Fleeting violets and black pepper make an appearance, returning on the lengthy finish, along with light vanilla and smoke. This is a big wine, better in a few years, but also suitable now after a decant and pairing with beef tenderloin.Prices:| BC | $44.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $53.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $53.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Rossi di Caparsa 2007
Tuscany, ItalyFrom the cellar. This certified-organic tiny family estate makes compelling wine from old vines in the heart of Chianti Classico traditionally, with very little manipulation or modern technology. This wine is from Radda in Chianti, on hillsides of albrese, galestro, clay and sand at 450m, and is wild yeast fermented in stainless before aging in cement and bottled unfiltered. Sangiovese is aided by trebbiano and malvasia in this charming, textured, light red, now shrouded with the cloak of bottle age. Worn leather, dried cherry, dried black plum is textured with dust and scented with worn paper and wild herbs. Acidity is fine, but still with a brightness now nine years along, indicative of the quality of this IGT. I should have caught this a couple of years ago, but still charming to drink now.Prices:Read Full Note
88PTS
Fort Berens Meritage 2014
British Columbia, CanadaAnother slightly reduce nose so splash decant. Super ripe fruit nose with dark fruit aromas mark this blend of merlot/cabernet franc/cabernet sauvignon from Lillooet, Okanagan and Similkameen vineyards. Stewed black fruit, resin, roasted coffee and tar mark the palate all seasoned with steak spices. Tannins are smoothed out, making this youthful wine approachable now, especially with steak. Exuberant at this point but it should settle in over the next two or three years.Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Burrowing Owl Athene 2013
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis cofermented syrah and cabernet sauvignon is soft, plush and rich, with sweet black fruit, pipe tobacco, baking spice and black liquorice riding along plush tannins. The wood is evident (18 months in French and Hungarian, 50 percent new) but fairly well integrated, with the density of the Black Sage Bench fruit able to stand up until the finish, when the wood tannins take over, leaving eucalyptus and black espresso lingering. A bit clumsy at this youthful state; decant and drink now with rich tomato braised shank or wait another year or two until this settles into its form more.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $43.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Château Léoville-Barton 2013
St. Julien, Haut-Médoc, Médoc, Bordeaux, FranceOne of the better 2013 buys in the market you may have to hunt for this one if it isn’t already snapped up. Léoville-Barton is always fragrant when young, mixing red fruit, tobacco and smoky notes on the nose, but in 2013 it seems denser and richer, even showing some caramel notes. The mix is 85/15 cabernet sauvignon and merlot. The palate is similar with lots of black fruit and licorice that fade into a somewhat fleshy, savoury finish. This will hold seven to ten years with no problems. Fine potential and good value.Prices:| ON | $105.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $135.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $129.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $105.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tinhorn Creek 2Bench Oldfield Series Red 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLovely violet florals float throughout this Bordeaux blend, a full-bodied sun-baked Southern Okanagan mix of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, malbec, petit verdot that comes from both the Black Sage and Golden Mile Benches (hence, 2Bench). The firm frame of French oak (30 percent new) helps support the ripe fruit, while a gentle stream of acidity helps lend a freshening hand. Tannis are supple, and powdery clad to a moderate-length, pipe tobacco and espresso finish. A fit for lamb shank.Prices:| BC | $30.49 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Stellar Organics Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Pinotage 2015
Western Cape, South AfricaBurnt wood and ripe black fruit throughout this soft, spicy cabernet sauvignon / pinotage blend from the Western Cape. Dense on the palate, thick with black fruit, surrounded with powdery tannins and ending with a singed tobacco note on the short, warm finish. Organic, fair trade and vegan, and suitable for your roasted root vegetables and hearty beef stews.Prices:| BC | $14.49 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Oscar's Douro Red 2014
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalIf you think the Douro is just for Port Wine, think again. Dry table wine from the Douro is hotter than ever, and it's a category you're going to see more and more (thankfully). Here touriga nacional and tinta roriz show soft, thorny black fruit, finely savoury, and hued with anise. Tannins are chocolaty and fine, and a light medicinal black cherry lingers on the finish. Impressive red - authentic, dry and true to place - for this price. That's the riches of Portugal; drink up, oft.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $16.99 | 750ml |
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04 November 2016
87PTS
Burrowing Owl Chardonnay 2014
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIt's nice to be tasting current release 2014 whites in the midst of the 2015 releases. Even though this is a full bodied, richer style, it has an underpinning of lemon acidity which many of the 2015s are missing. Here white peach, ripe pear and lemon curd are imbued with an abundance of toasty oak, finishing somewhat abruptly, though with a vanilla sweetness to counter. Disjointed and a bit clumsy, this is best poured alongside creamy butter chicken.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $31.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $33.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $35.75 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Jean-Paul Brun Terres Dorées Beaujolais Blanc 2014
Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceFrom one of the elder statesmen of Beaujolais, this Beaujolais blanc is a rare example of chardonnay from the limestone soils (Terres Dorées = golden soils) of Beaujolais. Gamay accounts for 99 percent of the grapes grown in Beaujolais, so this is a rare treat and a fantastic value for white Bourgogne. Mineral-rich, with a creamy, green apple, and lees-led core, this echoes with light flint and lingers with fine, strong acid, a hallmark of the limestone soils. A hidden gem, prized by those in the know.Prices:| BC | $31.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Tinhorn Creek Chardonnay 2015
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaToasted oak, rich and ripe red apple and vanilla dominate this Black Sage Bench chardonnay, the richest from Tinhorn in recent memory and perhaps reflective of the warm 2015 vintage. Partial whole cluster, partial stainless ferment, partial French and American oak ferment, partial wild yeast all adds up to a disjointed, clumsy and warm wine at this youthful stage. A promising lemon peel zing persists throughout, though I'm hoping for less working, and more freshness, in the future.Prices:| BC | $19.49 | 750ml |
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03 November 2016
93PTS
Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese 2013
Nahe, GermanyElastic, petrol and ripe pear lead this off dry and generous riesling from one of the top producers of the Nahe. An earthy dusting coats the driving, pure and ripe pear core, with a deep lees cushion lifted with tight, lime pith and lingering far beyond the last drop. Taut and pure, this is medium-dry, with 72 g/l RS and from Donnhoff's monopole vineyard, Brücke. At 8.5 percent alcohol, it's hard not to drink all of this in one go now, but this will hold for another decade easy.Prices:| AB | $77.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Cellier Interprofessionnel des Vins d’Alsace Altenberg de Bergbieten Alsace Grand Cru Riesling 1995
Alsace, FranceFrom the cellar. Heady honeycomb notes lead and linger through this Grand Cru Alsace riesling from clay and limestone-laced Altenberg de Bergbieten. The honeyed notes continue, filtered through broken, lightly smoked stone and ash on the waxen palate. This pronounced wine echoes with medicinal pear and marmalade, and is cut with a beam of acidity to a lengthy finish. At twenty-one years of age, this is the time to drink and enjoy.Prices:Read Full Note
89PTS
Kloster Eberbach Rüdesheimer Berg Roseneck Riesling Feinherb 2014
Rheingau, GermanyWeathered slate mixed with loess and loam is what is what Rüdesheimer Berg Roseneck is all about. Minerality is the name of the game here and you taste it right from the get go in this bright, easy-sipping riesling from the middle tier labeled “Crescentia” – fruit from specific, high-quality vineyards, but from the very best sites. They can be dry or semi-dry wines, or in this case confusingly ‘feinherb’ a German term with no real translation other than “balance” in this case between sugar and acid. The fact is this is a delicious drinking riesling with floral notes, bright yellow fruit character, freshness and some sweetness in the back end. Perfect with chicken fish or your favourite sushi roll.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Crowsnest Family Reserve Riesling 2015
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSomewhat muddled nose of mixed orchard fruit and green apple skin aromas. Better acidity on the palate with citrus and green apple fruit dominating and lees complementing. Bready, leesy, citrus and apple finish. Try this pork or a favourite sushi roll.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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02 November 2016
91PTS
Torres Mas La Plana 1998
Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainFrom the cellar. Who knew, back in 1966 that cabernet sauvignon vines planted in Penedès (of all places) would yield such age-worthy and serious wines? Miguel Torres, that's who. Wine legend, the 1970 vintage of Mas La Plana bested the great cabs of the world when tasted blind at the 1979 Paris Olympiad. Now, with a couple of hours of air time, this is showing its lineage, though under an aged, dusty tannin patina. Dried cherry and sweet dried fig abuts supple leather and tobacco, swathed around a small core of surprisingly vibrant cherry and raspberry fruit. Acidity is persistent, and while the tannins are veering steeply towards dryness at the finish, the mid-palate still holds a suppleness. A lingering sweet raspberry and bitter espresso note closes this out. Decant and drink now, preferably with rack of lamb.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Burrowing Owl Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe relatively warm 2013 growing season has yielded some impressive cabernet fruit from the deep southern Okanagan Valley in this case black cherry and thorny cassis notes jump from the glass. Savoury olive notes poke through, as do supple leather, graphite and tobacco leaf notes. Both free run and pressed wines spend 22 months in French and Hungarian oak (37 percent of which was new). Tannins are still furry, finishing pressed out with bitter espresso flavours. All French or conversely, less mixed wood, might let the earthy, desert-tinged fruit with bright structure and stature stand up on its own. Solid. Serve with your favourite lamb dishes or lay this away for some short term cellaring.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $48.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $44.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Concha y Toro Marqués de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Puente Alto, Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileThis wine continues to excel under Marcelo Papa and the combined fruit of Puente Alto and Pirque vineyards inside the DO Maipo. Both vineyards are near Andes Mountains foothills – Puente Alto at 650 metres above sea level and Pirque at 570 metres. Both are based on poor alluvial soils loaded with gravel. Some of the vines are now 40 years old. The mix in 2015 is 95/4/1 cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and syrah that is aged 16 months in French oak barriques and 5,000 liter foudres. Less new oak and larger barrels have brought new life to this wine that has gone from chocolate and cherries and vanilla to a wine of place - something much fresher and more authentic. The result is a delicious, savoury, bay leaf note, with lightly smoky cassis and red fruit. Try with grilled red meats rubbed in olive oil and dried herbs.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $21.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $19.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $24.95 | 750ml |
| YK | $24.95 | 750ml |
| NF | $23.95 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Napa Valley, California, United StatesA sensational vintage that was early, dry and essentially heat-spike free. It’s all hand-harvested at night then hand-sorted and fermented in small, closed top, stainless steel tanks with indigenous yeasts. A five-day cold soak is part of the 29-day total maceration before it's aged 20 months in French oak (63 percent new). The mix is 93/5/1/1/ cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot and merlot. The nose is a hedonistic mix of rocky mineral scents, blueberries and lavender, with bits of graphite and cedar. The attack is rich and dense with spicy, warm, boysenberry and cassis fruit. Big, rich, long and powerful this is a wine for the ages. You can drink it now with steak prepared rare or you can wait till 2030. Impressive in a modern New World style. The fruit is sourced form several vineyards: Nathan Coombs Estate, State Lane, Beckstoffer Dr. Crane, Beckstoffer Las Piedras and Wombats, Flat Rock mixing three clones: 4, 7, 337 with an average yield of about 3.7 tons/acre.Prices:| BC | $150.99 | 750ml |
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01 November 2016
89PTS
Concha y Toro Marqués de Casa Concha Carmenere 2014
Puemo, Valle del Cachapoal, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileWinemaker Marcelo Papa has a touch with carmenère that takes it well beyond its signature varietal moniker. This fruit is from younger vines in the famed Peumo Vineyard, home to the superstar Carmín del Peumo offering. We love the savoury dried herb notes and pepper on the nose and the and the dense cedar, tobacco, menthol, bay leaf, resin and black fruit streaked in chocolate. Lovely balance. Best with grilled meats and you should consider giving it another three to five years in bottle.Prices:| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
| BC | $20.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.05 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Rioja Bordón Gran Reserva 2005
Rioja, SpainThe Bourdon Gran Reserva is aged in medium toasted American white oak barrels from Ohio for two years with rackings every six month. Leather, coffee, balsamic notes mark the nose with bits of spice and tobacco. The attack is dry with upfront freshness, milk chocolate covered cherry and more spice and soy. The texture is smooth and mature, making for easy sipping. Ready to drink. Try this with roasted meats or a favourite aged cheese.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.20 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Finca El Encinal Crianza 2011
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainThis wine requires decanting immediately upon opening. The nose is a smoky, toasted affair that dominates the fruit. The style is youthful with some aggressive acidity poking through a dark cherry fruit palate, flecked with meat and followed by bits of cocoa powder and vanilla. An older, traditional style that needs time or a piece of lamb to temper its edges. One hundred percent estate-owned tempranillo.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
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December 2016