Pascal Jolivet Sancerre 2010, Loire, France

This 100% Sauvignon Blanc was greeny straw in colour and opened up with aromas of grapefruit, lime, fresh chives, floral and mineral notes. On the palate, medium bodied, low alcohol at 12.5%, bright and edgy texture with racy acidity and citrus flavours. The finish is long, rich and refreshing. This wine is definitely made to enjoy with food like white fish, shellfish or grilled chicken salad with goat cheese. Very attractive Sauvignon Blanc, score 90 points.

Purchased March 3, 2012 LCBO New Release (264945) at $24.95

Marqués de Cáceres Gran Reserva 2004, Rioja, Spain

I really enjoyed this winery's last Gran Reserva, the 2001 vintage. This 2004 vintage is a blend of Trempranillo with the remaining 15% a mix of Graciano and Garnacha Tinto, maturation took place in French oak for 26-28 months than 4 years in bottle before release.

This wine opens up with attractive aromas of wild berries, plum, Asian spices, soft leather, tobacco and earthy notes. On the palate, medium-full bodied (with alcohol coming in at 14%), dry, good acidity and fine grained tannins. Good length on this wine finish with dried fruit, spices and those fine grained tannins making there presence felt 'till the end. Very seamless aromatics, silky smooth mouthfeel with good depth of flavour on the finish. However, I feel the best is yet to come. It still needs to shed some of its oak. For fans of traditional Spanish Gran Reserva, cellar 1-2 years and you should be rewarded. Score 90 points 

Purchased December 27, 2011 at the SAQ (00865535) AT $39.00

Paul's Picks from the LCBO New Release of April 28, 2012 - Sauvignon Blanc Challenge and My Top 5 Best Value from this New Release

Hello to all my wine friends,

While looking through the selection on this New Release (NR), I couldn’t believe how many good wines were available. This is a solid selection from around the world. Apart from the wines featured in the following two highlighted segments, here are a few wines I would like to bring to your attention. Looking at white wines first, here is a couple of mid-priced, well balanced, oaked Chardonnays; Cuvaison Chardonnay 2009 from California (988261) at $29.95, and this first class Dog Point Chardonnay 2009 from New Zealand (238568) at $39.95. Now, a few reds for your consideration; a must buy for fans of rich textured Merlot, Beringer Merlot 2009 from Napa Valley (919647) at $29.95, a mid price California Cabernet from Summers Andriana's Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 from Knights Valley (275719) at $26.95. Here are a few gems from the old world starting with the 2009 French vintage; Château Des Moines 2009 from Bordeaux (206789) at $21.95 and from Burgundy Domaine Vincent Girardin Santenay les Gravières 1er Cru 2009 (940825) at $38.95. A Barolo for your cellar? how about Marziano Abbona Terlo Ravera Barolo 2006 (067918) at $42.95, and if like me, you are a fan of Spanish Rioja this wine should be on your shopping list, Allende 2006, Rioja from Spain (954560) at $24.95. Well let's get started.

Sauvignon Blanc Challenge;  With summer fast approaching, the sale of white wine is about to pick up. For fans of Sauvignon Blanc (SB), three very good SB are been released this weekend, two from New Zealand and one from California. What about a challenge? Dare to compare! There are two premium SB around the same price, one from California at $29 and the other from New Zealand at $30. If you decide to take this challenge, write me back to tell me which one of these two SB won you over?

• Seresin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 from New Zealand (735043) at $21.95 – I love the wines from this winery and their SB is definitely one of my favourite. A blend of 94% Sauvignon Blanc and 6% Sémillon, both of these grapes are certified organic. This wine was naturally fermented using wild yeast, the Sémillon and 10% of the SB were fermented in aged French oak.

• Two Rivers of Marlborough Convergence Sauvignon Blanc 2011 from New Zealand (277707) at $29.95 – This 100% SB grapes are from two separate vineyards located on the banks of the Wairau and Awatere rivers. A percentage of the wine was aged on natural yeast lees in French oak for 3 months to add complexity and texture, the rest of the aging process took place in stainless steel tanks.

• Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc 2010 from California (094375) at $28.95 - I tasted this SB at the California Wine Fair in Ottawa a month ago, here in Ottawa. Very refreshing with slight creaminess, flavours of pineapple, peach and citrus notes. This wine is a blend of 75% SB and 25% Sémillon with 15% barrel fermented in 100% French oak Château style barrels (60 gallons)

My Top 5 Best Value from this New Release; I have often been asked to recommend wines under $20.00. Well in this NR, there are many wines of great value and worth stocking up, that I decided to elaborate on five of these wines. These wines should offer enjoyable drinking pleasure, delivering quality well above their asking price and not likely to disappoint.

• Flat Rock Cellars Riesling 2010 from Ontario (043281) at $16.95 - From a very reliable producer, with a lot of attention to detail for $16.95. This wine is 100% Riesling grapes, hand picked and hand sorted, a selection of different yeast strains were used, fermentation lasted about four weeks and filtered prior to bottling. The alcohol comes in at 10.5% with sweetness level at medium-dry (26g/Littler)

• Raimat Abadia Cabernet Sauvignon/Tempranillo 2008 from Spain (935460) at $15.95 - This wine is made to be enjoyed upon release, and at this price, a great wine for the BBQ season. On the label its says Sauvignon/Tempranillo, but what it doesn't say is that Merlot is a big component with 29% of the blend and all the better for it, Cabernet Sauvignon with 48% and Tempranillo at 23%, maturation took place in nearly-new American oak for 10 months, followed by 6 months in French oak.

• Brigaldara Valpolicella 2010 from Italy (917864) at $14.95 – This wine is from a very good producer Brigaldara (love there Amarone), Valpolicella is usually a easy drinking, light bodied wine, medium to pale ruby in color and low tannins. This Valpolicella is a blend of Corvina 40% Corvina, 40% Molinara e Sangiovese and 20% Rondinella. This is a great light bodied, inexpensive wine, serve slightly chilled during the hot summer months.

• Tommasi Arele Appassimento 2009 from Italy (224188) at $17.95 – In the making of a Appassimento style wine, fully ripe grapes are dried for about a month before pressing, usually producing a fuller, sweeter and richer wine. This wine is a blend of 90% Corvina and 10% Oseleta with maturation taking place in Slavonian and French oak for 12 months. I tasted this wine at the Vancouver Playhouse Wine Festival last March, and I found it to be delicious. I would pair this wine with a cheese platter because of the rich and creamy texture of this wine.

• Canonica A. Cerreto Chianti Classico Riserva 2007 from Italy (275867) at $17.95 – I had the opportunity to enjoy this wine in a pizzeria in Montréal last December. From a very good 2007 Tuscan vintage, this Chianti Classico Riserva is very rich and concentrated and that an extra four to five months would make this wine even better. I had never tried this winery before, but was very happy with this wine and was hoping to find it in a store at some point. At $17.95, this is my choice of the best value wine in this NR. To see my review of this wine on my blog follow this link;    http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2011/12/canonica-cerreto-chianti-classico.html

My top three wines from this release;
1-Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from California (071407) at $74.95
2-Marziano Abbona Terlo Ravera Barolo 2006 from Italy (067918) at $48.95
3-Dog Point Chardonnay 2009 from New Zealand (238568) at $39.95

My top three wines for value;
1-Canonica A. Cerreto Chianti Classico Riserva 2007 from Italy (275867) at $17.95
2-Brigaldara Valpolicella 2010 from Italy (917864) at $14.95
3-Raimat Abadia Cabernet Sauvignon/Tempranillo 2008 from Spain (935460) at $15.95

These wines did not make my shopping list but are worth considering;

Red Wines;

1- Maculan Brentino Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 from Italy (708897) at $18.95
2- Farina Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2008 from Italy (995910) at $34.95
3- Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from California (071407) at $74.95 

4- Ravenswood Single Vineyard Pickberry Red 2007 from California (200865) at $44.95 

5- Andrew Rich Cuvée B Pinot Noir 2008 from Oregon (127043) at $29.95
6- Mendel Malbec 2009 from Argentina (108225) at $24.95
7- Majella Shiraz 2008 from Australia (269308) at $29.95
8- Saltram Mamre Brook Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from Australia (048579) at $24.95
9-Sister's Run Epiphany Shiraz 2008 from Australia (269464) at $15.95
10- Momo Pinot Noir 2009 from New Zealand (163972) at $19.95
11-Château Cantemerle 2008 from France (135004) at $43.00
12-Château Des Moines 2009 from France (206789) at $21.95
13-Domaine Vincent Girardin Santenay les Gravières 1er Cru 2009 from France (940825) at $38.95 14-Marziano Abbona Terlo Ravera Barolo 2006 from Italy (067918) at $48.95

15-Isole E. Olena Chianti Classico 2008 from Italy (704346) at $26.95
16-Condado De Haza Tinto 2008 from Spain (963348) at $23.95
17-Raimat Abadia Cabernet Sauvignon/Tempranillo 2008 from Spain (935460) at $15.95

White Wines;

1-Dog Point Chardonnay 2009 from New Zealand (238568) at $39.95
2-Flat Rock Cellars Riesling 2010 from Ontario (043281) at $16.95
3-Cuvaison Chardonnay 2009 from California (988261) at $29.95
4-Domaine Bachey-Legros Vieilles Vignes Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot 1er Cru from France (268508) at $53.95
5-Chavet & Fils La Dame de Jacques Cœur Menetou-Salon Blanc 2010 from France (525048) at $19.95

That is it for me and my team. We will be back for next New Release of May 12, 2012 where one of the featured segments is California Chards, Zins and Cabs. Will that be an expensive selection?

Cheers,
Paul YWG

Casa Emma Chianti Classico 2009, Tuscany, Italy

I really struggled with this review. In total I bought 6 bottles of this Chianti and had already enjoyed four. I thought, I should write a review of this wine, it’s so good. I photographed bottle number 5, but unfortunately the wine was corked. I decided to take a chance, open number 6, it was even more corked than the previous bottle. This will not deter me from buying another bottle, the pure pleasure of this wine is worth the risk. At less in this jurisdiction, you can return a corked or faulty bottle for a full refund or exchange.  So, I will write this review based on the other four bottles which were consistently good, all four.

There is so much I like about this wine, from the very good 2007 vintage in Tuscany, this Chianti Classico is a blend of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo and 5% Malvasia Nara. On the nose this wine opens up with aromas of cherry, plum, sundried tomato, soft leather, savoury herbs and herbal notes. On the palate, light to medium bodied, red berry fruit flavours, fresh acidity and soft silky tannins. Very good energy and length on the finish with plumy-red berry fruit flavours lingering. To be enjoyed with a tomato based pasta, pizza, or on its own, its that good. Strongly recommended and very good value for fans of a more traditional style of Chianti Classico. Score 90 points.

Purchased March 3, 2012 LCBO New Release (056952) at $18.95

Brokenwood Shiraz 2009 McLaren Vale/Beechworth, South Australia/Victoria, Australia

This attractive Shiraz is a regional blend of fruit from the South Australia's regions of McLaren Vale (approximately 70%) and Beechworth (around 30%). This wine opens up with aromas of wild berries, plums, baking spices and cedar notes. On the palate, medium bodied, with alcohol coming in at 14.0%, a solid core of ripe fruit and sweet spices, lively acidity and rounded tannins. This Shiraz finish is medium length with flavours of plums, berries, vanilla and mild tannins lingering. This wine is not terribly complex, but it is very smooth, very enjoyable, almost too easy to drink. Enjoy now or over the next 3-4 years, recommended. Score 89 points.

Purchased April 14, 2012 LCBO New Release (265975) at $29.95

Duckhorn Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Napa Valley, California, USA

What a lovely wine here, a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot, aged in 100% French oak. This wine opens up with aromas of blueberry, black cherry, cassis, vanilla and sweet toasty oak. On the palate, medium-full bodied (14.5% alc.), dry, rich and concentrated flavours, lively acidity and firm tannins. This Cabernet finish is long, very smooth with flavours of dark fruit, black pepper notes and fine grained tannins. Awsome mouthfeel, well balanced, well priced and delicious. Strongly recommended, score 91 points.

Purchased at the LCBO New Release (186171) at $32.95

Luigi Bosca De Sangre 2008, Lujan De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina

This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon at 70% with Merlot and Syrah with each 15% in a supporting role. Maturation took place in French and American oak for 14 months. A beautiful ruby-violet in color and a very attractive aromatics with aromas of black currants, black cherry, strawberry, spice box, violet and camp fire smoke. On the palate, medium-full bodied (14.5% Alc.), juicy texture with good energy, lively acidity and silky tannins. Very tasty and good length on the finish with savoury notes, fresh berry and black currants and some light tannins lingering. I was concerned that the tannins would have been too much, but I found it drinking well right now. Possibly cellar 2-3 years. This red blend is easy drinking, good value and strongly recommended. Score 89 points

Purchased March 17, 2012 LCBO New Release (261933) at $21.95

San Guido Le Difese 2009, Igt Toscany, Italy

From the makers of Sassicaia, this delicious blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30 % Sangiovese was aged 12 months in French and American oak. What superb aromatics with aromas of plum, wild berries, black fruit, freshly ground espresso, sweet and savoury spices, leather and tobacco notes. On the mouthfeel, medium-full bodied (14% alcohol), plumy-wild berry fruit, silky tannins and balanced acidity. This wine's finish is long, fine grained, tasty, savoury with very good energy. What you get from this wine is elegance and finesse with lots of details. I wish I had bought more than this one bottle, at this price what a fantastic value. Score 91 points.

Purchased December 10, 2011 LCBO New Release (147876) at $26.95

Mapema Malbec 2009, Mendoza, Argentina

This Malbec is almost too easy to drink. This wine opens up with aromas of black fruit, blackcurrant jam, mint, cedar and soft leather notes. On the palate, medium bodied (14% alcohol), juicy red and black fruit flavours, fine acidity and dusty tannins. Good length on the finish, fruit driven with a  smooth and creamy texture. On a more technical note, this wine is 100% Malbec from 83 year old vines, grown at 3200 feet. Aged 12 months in 50% new and 50%  year old French oak barrels. An attractive wine that is uncomplicated but generous. Drink now or over the next couple years, score 89 points 

Purchased April 14, 2012 LCBO New Release (275081) at $21.95

Descendientes De J. Palacios Pétalos 2009, Bierzo, Spain

This wine is made with the lesser known Mencia grape, which is mostly grown in Portugal and Spain. The nose on this wine was very different. It would make for an interesting wine in a blind tasting with aromas of wild berry, strawberry, minerals, mushrooms, tobacco leaves and floral notes. On the mouthfeel, medium-full bodied but even with alcohol at 15%/ A well balanced wine with rich red fruit flavours, refreshing acidity and silky tannins. Very good length on the finish with spicy red fruit flavours, smoky notes and fine tannins lingering. A very interesting wine to be sure, but it works. Score 90 points.

Purchased January 21, 2012 LCBO New Release at $22.95

Paul's Picks from the LCBO New Release of April 14, 2012 - My Top 3 from the Argentina Feature and GSM

 Hello to all my wine friends,

Looking at this New Release (NR), apart from the wines featured in the following two highlighted segments, here are a few wines I would like to bring to your attention. If you are a fan of Rioja wines from Spain, here are two of them for you to consider; Coto De Imaz Reserva 2005 (023762) at $19.95 and Rioja Bordon Gran Reserva 2004 (114454) at $22.95. Both of these two Tempranillo base Rioja’s are ready to enjoy, the aging as all been done for you, these to wines are best served with food. Also the Australian selection has pretty good wines for the BBQ session coming up which includes; Shottesbrooke Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (198275) at $21.95, Shingleback Shiraz 2007 (057844) at $24.95 and on my shopping list Brokenwood Shiraz 2009 (265975) at $29.95. I have notice that some Ontario wineries have been experimenting with Canadian oak, we will see in a near future if there is a market for our Canadian oak barrels. In the mean time you may want to try Featherstone Canadian Oak Chardonnay 2010 from Ontario (149302) at $21.95. Well let’s get started.

My Top 3 from the Argentina Feature;  Again the LCBO staff who put this NR magazine together did a fantastic job, with beautiful stories and photos about Argentina. It makes me want to call my travel agent and travel to Argentina right now. But unfortunately the wines chosen for this NR are nothing to get excited about. With a total of 14 wines, with 11 of them under $20.00, none of these wines created much of a buzz that would cause a rush at the store for purchase. If you have been researching or lucky enough to attend a wine event, featuring the wines of Argentina, you know that there are some fantastic wines to be had. I think that if a region or country is the main feature in a NR, the selection should make that region proud and showcase some of their best wines.

• Carinae Reserva Malbec 2009 from Mendoza (261735) at $15.95 – The best value red wine in this release in my book. This wine is 100% Malbec grapes from 85 years old vines, grown in 2 sub regions of Mendoza with maturation taking place in French oak barrels for 12 months. This winery is also a client of Michel Rolland, the Bordeaux wine consultant.

• Catena Chardonnay 2010 from Mendoza (918805) at $19.95 – The Catena Chardonnay 2010 is 100% Chardonnay grapes blend from these three vineyards La Piramide, Domingo and Adrianna, barrel fermented in French oak (30% new) and aged for 9 months in barrel. A wine with crisp acidity and creamy mouthfeel. Enjoy this Chardonnay with grilled salmon, roast pork or roast chicken.

• François Lurton Piedra Negra Malbec 2007 from Uco Valley (924001) at $34.95 – This wine is 100% estate Malbec grapes, grown in Vista Flores at the foot of the Andes, fermented with native yeasts and aged for 18 months in new French oak. To be enjoyed at its best, this full bodied Malbec will need 4-5 years for all the elements of this wine to blend together.

GSM; You may have heard of this acronym before, but if you haven’t, in the wine world, it means a red blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre. These wines are modelled on the wines from the appellation of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Vacqueyras, Gigondas and Côte du Rhône in southern Rhône, France. Those wines made outside France carrying the label GSM are usually more approachable in their youth and bolder. Here are three wines using all or some of these three grapes, one from Australia and two from France;

• Grant Burge ‘The Holy Trinity’ Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvèdre 2008 from Australia (236257) at $33.95 – I have been a fan of Grant Burge ‘The Holy Trinity’ for quite some time now, a big powerful wine with concentrated flavours, savoury notes and velvet mouthfeel. The exact blend of this wine is 44% Grenache, 40% Shiraz and 16% Mourvèdre, aged 12 months in oak barrels before bottling. Great companion with anything lamb or a good quality steak on the Barbie.

• Domaine de la Colline St-Jean Vacqueyras 2009 from France (038661) at $22.95 - From the very good 2009 Rhône vintage, this wine is a blend of mostly Grenache with a small amount of Syrah with maturation taking place in tank, no oak barrels here. Should drink nicely over the next 3-4 years.

• Brotte Château de Bord ‘La Croix de Frégère’ Côte du Rhône-Villages Landun 2009 from France (264218) at $16.95 – On the very good vintage like 2009, Côte du Rhône are one of the best value there is. Also a blend of Grenache and Syrah, aged 12 months in oak, to enjoy now and over the next 3-4 years.

My top three wines of this release;
1-Antinori Badia A Passignano Chianti Classico Riserva 2007 from Italy (384552) at $43.95

2-Grant Burge ‘The Holy Trinity’ Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvèdre 2008 from Australia (236257) at $33.95

3-Hamilton Russell Chardonnay 2010 from South Africa (931006) at $31.95

My top three wines for value;

1-Carinae Reserva Malbec 2009 from Argentina (261735) at $15.95

2-Brotte Château de Bord ‘La Croix de Frégère’ Côte du Rhône-Villages Landun 2009 from France (264218) at $16.95

3-Tamaya Reserva Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah 2009 from Chile (062497) at $15.95

These wines did not make my shopping list but are worth considering;

Red Wines;

1-François Lurton Piedra Negra Malbec 2007 from Argentina (924001) at $34.95 – Cellar Candidate

2-Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 from California (149955) at $119.95 – Cellar Candidate

3-Cyrus Cabernet Blend 2007 from California (269233) at $59.95 – Cellar Candidate

4-Tamaya Reserva Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah 2009 from Chile (062497) at $15.95

5-Katnook Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from Australia (590471) at $29.95 – Cellar Candidate

6-Shingleback Shiraz 2007 from Australia (057844) at $24.95

7-Grant Burge ‘The Holy Trinity’ Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvèdre 2008 from Australia (236257) at $33.95

8-Domaine de la Colline St-Jean Vacqueyras 2009 from France (038661) at $22.95

9-Mastrojanni Brunello Di Montalcino 2006 from Italy (942508) at $46.95 – Cellar Candidate

10-Passadouro Vinho Tinto 2008 from Portugal (267997) at $21.95

11-Coto De Imaz Reserva 2005 from Spain (023762) at $19.95

12-Rioja Bordon Gran Reserva 2004 from Spain (114454) at $22.95

White Wines;

1-Catena Chardonnay 2010 from Argentina (918805) at $19.95

2-Featherstone Canadian Oak Chardonnay 2010 from Ontario (149302) at $21.95

3-Frog’s Leap Chardonnay 2010 from California (713552) at $34.95

4-Gloria Ferrer Chardonnay 2008 from California (083345) at $23.95

5-Quintay Q Sauvignon Blanc 2011 from Chile (276493) at $14.95

6-Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2011 from New Zealand (677450) at $20.95

That is it for me and my team. We will be back for next New Release of April 28, 2012

Cheers,

Paul YWG

Rioja Bordón Gran Reserva 2004, Rioja, Spain

Definitely an ultra traditional style of Grand Reserva here with aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, tobacco, old church wood, vanilla and cinnamon spice. On the palate, medium bodied, soft texture, dusty tannins and high acid. A very good length and smooth on the finish with a slightly tart flavour. This wine is better served with food and slightly chilled to improve the fruit flavours. This Grand Reserva is a blend of 80% Tempranillo, 16% Grenache, 2% Mazuelo and 2% Graciano, aging took place in American white oak for 36 months with alcohol coming in at 13.5%. Enjoyable score 88 points. 

Purchased March 31, 2012 at the SAQ (Quebec) at $22.75

California Wine Fair 2012 Canadian Tour - Ottawa, Ontario

It was a pleasure to attend this Trade Show in Ottawa, Ontario March 30, 2012. With more than 90 wineries, hundreds of wine and only 2 ½ hours, planning was key. My plan, start with Sauvignon Blanc, than Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Blends and two other grapes which I will mention later.


Sauvignon Blanc; I tasted four. All were very good, especially the very crisp and refreshing Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc 2010 from Napa Valley (25% Sémillon is included in this wine) with aromas of pineapple, tree fruit, citrus fruit. Also very enjoyable was the Star Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2009 from Happy Canyon. The only problem with California Sauvignon Blanc is the price. You can also count on strong competition from Chile and New Zealand, both of these two countries produce very good Sauvignon Blanc at a good price.

Chardonnay; I tasted a total of 8 Chardonnays, some were terrific and others very oaky. I have to say, one Chardonnay blew me away. Probably the best I have had in many years, Migration Chardonnay 2010 from Russian River Valley, a superb well balanced cool-climate wine with great complexity, richness and sophistication. Also very enjoyable was Stags’ Leap Winery Chardonnay 2010 from Napa Valley, Rodney Strong Chardonnay 2009 from Sonoma County and both of Thomas George Estates Chardonnay from Russian River Valley (Chardonnay 2009 and Starr Ridge Estate Chardonnay 2009). In general, I prefer cooler-climate Chardonnay over warmer climate, they possess better acidity.

Thomas B. Baker,
Thomas George Estates.

Pinot Noir; I prefer Pinot Noir that are medium bodied, aromatic, feminine, pretty, earthy but not oaky. I tasted 9 Pinot Noir, and I found that too many of them are Cabernet wanna be's, with too much extraction, oak and tannins. Not want you call elegant Pinots. That having been said, one of my favourite wine from this entire tasting was Breggo Cellars Pinot Noir 2010 from Anderson Valley, with beautiful silky texture and aromas of beetroot, rhubarb, wild berries, floral, spices and underbrush. Definitely elegant and pretty, a stunning wine. Also worth mentioning Thomas George Cresta Ridge Estate Pinot Noir 2009 from Russian River Valley, a fuller and darker bodied Pinot with bigger tannins, but underneath, great complexity and beautiful fruit, a wine to be enjoyed in a couple of years. And finally the very elegant and smooth Rodney Strong Vineyards Pinot Noir 2009 from Russian River Valley. This Pinot is consistently very good and at $24.95 here in Ontario (954834), a very good value.

Zinfandel; I really enjoy Zinfandel but only tasted 6 of them here. What I usually enjoy in Zinfandel is a wine without too much color extraction, tannins and alcohol but with good acidity and depth of flavours. There were three Zinfandel which stood out for me, Heitz Zinfandel 2007 from Napa Valley and two others, from Seghesio Family Vineyards Sonoma Zinfandel 2010 and Old Vine Zinfandel 2009 also from Sonoma.

Shelly Eichner, Swanson Vineyards,
Rutherford, California.

Merlot; Not as many Merlot were poured at this show compared to Cabernet Sauvignon, I tasted 7 of these. My impression was that they were almost as full bodied, concentrated and tannic as the Cabernet Sauvignon. I have, in the past, reviewed two Merlot on this blog which are a good example of the style of California Merlot I usually enjoy, Duckhorn Merlot 2009 and Grgich Hills Estate Merlot 2007. Both medium-full bodied aromatics, smooth, plumy-cherry fruit with great depth of flavours. Only one Merlot from this tasting I would like to highlight, Swanson Vineyards Merlot 2008 from Oakville, definitely a full bodied Merlot with great flavour, quality tannins and well balanced.

Cabernet Sauvignon; I had originally narrowed the amount of Cabernet Sauvignon to try down to an ambitious 26, but managed, in the end, 18 of them. When you arrive at this varietal, the wines are massive, big fruit, big alcohol and even bigger tannins, You can get palate fatigue pretty quickly.The majority of them need several years in bottle to fully come around and only a few of them did I manage to enjoy, starting with Cliff Lede Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 from Stags Leap District with rich combination of fruit, great texture, robust wine yet approachable, also very enjoable Rodney Strong Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 with great aromatics, rich, well structured wth fine grain tannins. Finally my choice for your cellar Swanson Vineyards Alexis Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from Napa Valley, a big but well balanced wine, beautiful fruit concentration, good acidity, quality oak but above all great energy on the palate. A great wine to lay down for 3-4 years if it is to be enjoy at its best.

Red Blends; I had 10 of them on my list to taste but ran out of time and only managed to taste 5 of them. My overwhelming favourite was Chateau St. Jean Cinq Cépages Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from Sonoma County, a blend of all five Bordeaux grape. Avery ripe and rich, creamy wine but not overdone. Drinking very well right now. Also very interesting was the Duckhorn Paraduxx Red Wine 2009 from Napa Valley, a blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

Well, let's wrap this up, there are two other wines which I really enjoyed and want to take the opportunity to mention, Seghesio Pinot Grigio 2011 from Russian River Valley a crisp, refreshing wine with interesting orange flavours and Uvaggio Barbera 2009 from Lodi, a blend of 97% Barbera and 3% Primitivo with maturation taking place in a combination of French and Hungarian oak. A beautiful medium bodied (13.8% Alc.) Italian style wine made to be enjoyed at the table.
Now, my concern with California wines is over extraction, over ripeness, high alcohol and over use of oak. There is no doubt that California is blessed with great climate and different types of terroir. I think blending different varietals and blending from different vineyards makes for better wines, apart from winemakers key decisions, when to pick, what kind of oak and for how long and final blend decision. In good hands, these California grapes can be truly spectacular.
 

     
Here are my top 15 wines tasted at this Fair
    (In no particular order)
1-Breggo Cellars Pinot Noir 2010 from Anderson Valley
2-Chateau St. Jean Cinq Cépages Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from Sonoma County
3-Cliff Lede Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 from Stags Leap District
4-Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc 2010 from Napa Valley
5-Migration Chardonnay 2010 from Russian River Valley
6-Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 from Alexander Valley
7-Rodney Strong Pinot Noir 2009 from Russian River Valley
8-Seghesio Pinot Grigio 2011 from Russian River Valley
9-Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel 2009 from Sonoma County
10-Stags’ Leap Chardonnay 2010 from Napa Valley
11-Star Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2009 from Happy Canyon
12-Swanson Merlot 2008 from Oakville
13-Swanson “Alexis” Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from Napa Valley
14-Thomas George Cresta Ridge Estate Pinot Noir 2009 from Russian River Valley
15-Uvaggio Barbera 2009 from Lodi

Monitor Ledge, Duckhorn Vineyards  

Bodegas Escorihuela 1884 Limited Production Malbec 2007, Mendoza, Argentina

I first tasted this wine at the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival. The aromatics were just as nice as I remember, with aromas of  ripe berries, stewed plums, blackcurrants, white pepper, burnt sugar,  savoury and cedar notes. On the mouthfeel, full bodied, lively acidity, smooth tannins with sweet ripe fruit covering the palate. This Malbec finish is long with great energy, generous flavours concentrated but not overdone. This wine is drinking well right now with years of enjoyment left to come. Well made and very enjoyable, score 92 points.  

Purchased at the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival wine shop March 2, 2012 at $29.99. 

Quinta de la Rosa Tinto 2008, Douro, Portugal

This red blend is made with traditional Port varieties, in this case Tinto Roriz, Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franco from the older dry stone terraced vineyards at La Rosa. Maturation took place in Allier French oak casks for 12 months with alcohol coming in at 14.2%.

This wine opens up with aromas of ripe plums, black cherry, soft leather, floral and toasty cedar notes. On the palate, medium-full bodied, soft texture with refreshing acidity and dusty tannins. Very good length on the finish with berry fruit, white pepper and a slight sweet herbal flavours all wrapped up by fine tannins which gives it a mild dryness. A very attractive, elegant and well structured wine here, I especially like the texture of the tannins. Score 90 points. 

Purchased March 31, 2012 LCBO New Release (933101) at $19.95  

Amani Chardonnay 2009, Stellenbosh, South Africa

Produced from 100% Chardonnay, the wine is kept on the lees for 9-11 months without batonnage, maturation took place in French oak, 16% in new oak for 10 months and alcohol came in at 13.5%. This Chardonnay is very fragrant on the nose with aromas of pineapple, peach, lime, minerals and sweet butterscotch. On the mouthfeel, medium-full bodied, refreshing acidity, well integrated oak and rich, creamy texture. Good weight and length on the finish with tropical fruit, toasty oak and spices, notes lingering. From start to finish, this is a very enjoyable and elegant Chardonnay and a great value. Score 90 points. 

Purchased November 26, 2011 LCBO New Release (687442) at $17.95

Dominus Estate Napanook 2007, Napa Valley, California, USA

This was one of those rare occasions, when you think you are opening something special, then it turns out to be a disappointment. This wine is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot with alcohol coming in at 14.1%. On the nose, this wine opens up with aromas of dried fruit, violet, dried sage, earthy, leather and pencil shaving. On the mouthfeel, medium-full bodied, low acidity, silky tannins but no fruit to speak off. Medium length on the finish, smooth but lacking energy and flavours. It's funny that from the very good 2007 California vintage, the fruitiness is all but gone, it was not a problem of oxidation, the cork sealed this bottle very well. Memorable but not in a good way, score 85 points. 

Purchased February 19, 2011 LCBO New Release at $53.95

Domaine des Bosquets Gigondas 2007, Rhône, France

This  is a very ripe example of Gigondas made for the North American palate. On the nose, this wine opens up with aromas of blueberry-blackberry fruit, stewed plum, ground coffee, underbrush, dried herbs, violet and minerals notes. On the mouthfeel, full bodied, balance acidity, velvet tannins and solid core of ripe fruit. The finish is long with good depth of flavours and chest warming, slightly hot. Not exactly elegant with 15% alcohol, but very rich and enjoyable. This Gigondas is a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 20% Mourvedre/Cinsault. Score 91 points.  

Purchased July 9, 2011 LCBO New Release (209718) at $31.95

My top three enjoyed wines for March 2012

With two trade tastings this month, the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, February 27 - March 4, 2012 and the California Wine Fair in Ottawa, Ontario March 30, 2012 (more on this show in a future posting), I sure have enjoyed a wide variety of very good wines this month. These tasting wines are not included in the top three for this month. Having a sip of a wine and enjoying a bottle over an evening with your friends and love ones, does not give you the same perspective.

These very enjoyable wines did not make my top three but are worth an honorable mention; Blasted Church Merlot 2008, i Castei Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006 and Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2007.

My top three enjoyed wines in March;

1-Howard Park Scotsdale Shiraz 2008, Western Australia, Australia

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/03/howard-park-scotsdale-shiraz-2008.html

I first tasted this wine at the Australia's First Families of Wine event, here in Ottawa last May 5, 2011. My order from that event finally arrived in February, this wine was sure worth the wait. It tasted even better than it did last May. The best and most balanced Shiraz I have had in a long time, generous flavours and mouthfeel but not overdone. Absolutely gorgeous. 

  

2-Grgich Hills Estate Merlot 2007, Napa Valley, California, USA

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/03/grgich-hills-estate-merlot-2007-napa.html

I am a big fan of Merlot, especially when the wine is as enjoyable has this one. Almost drinking like a Cabernet Sauvignon, a big and full bodied wine, but much smoother than a Cabernet, with incredible aromatics and mouthfeel. A bit expensive, but very good from start to finish... a real treat.

3-Quinta Do Vale Meão Meandro 2008, DOC Douro, Portugal

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/03/quinta-do-vale-meao-meandro-2008-doc.html

I would love to attend a wines from Portugal tasting, there are so many good wines being made there now. Portuguese wines have definitely moved on, from making rustic style of wine to a more polished, balanced and complex style of dry red wines. Like this one from Quinta Do Vale Meão, great quality, seriously good wine at a ridiculous low price.