My top three enjoyed wines for July 2013

When I look back at all the wines I reviewed this month, nine of them stood out for me. Three of these are Canadian wines and two of them, Cabernet Franc. I am not sure if this is a Canadian thing but I really enjoy Cabernet Franc. Apart from being well suited to our climate, for me, Cabernet Franc is not just a blending grape but has a great deal to offer on its own. I also really enjoyed two white wines this month, Domaine des Aubusières Cuvée de Silex Vouvray 2011 and Cloudy Bay Chardonnay 2009. Now here are my top three this months; 

My top three wines in July

1- Château des Laurets 2009 Puisseguin Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France


http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/07/chateau-des-laurets-2009-puisseguin.html

 

I still can’t believe the great value that this 2009 Bordeaux represented. Well structured and age-worthy yet drinking beautifully now. Give it another 3-4 more years and it should achieve the same elegance has my number 2 pick, the Brunello.

  

2- San Giorgio Ugolforte Brunello Di Montalcino 2006, Docg Tuscany, Italy


http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/07/san-giorgio-ugolforte-brunello-di.html

I am a big fan of Brunello and this one offers beautiful and complex aromas, smooth and subtle texture and an elegant finish. Worth the splurge. 

3- Lornano Chianti Classico 2009, Docg Tuscany, Italy


http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/07/lornano-chianti-classico-2009-docg.html

I still vividly remember how beautifully, how enjoyable this Chianti Classico was. Great wine making at play here where the winemaker let the fruit and region express themselves without over manipulation. 

 

My top three enjoyed wines for June 2013

For me the month of June was marked by value over premium wines. As we move into the warmer months, I usually prefer lighter reds with lower alcohol, with less oak concentration and served lightly chilled. Four other wines which did not make my top three wines but would definitely be considered a very good value, for wines around the $20.00 mark; Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Kunde Zinfandel 2008, Finca El Origin Gran Reserva 2010 and Les Halos de Jupiter Côtes du Rhône 2010.


My top three wines in June


1- Blue Mountain Pinot Noir 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/06/blue-mountain-pinot-noir-2011-okanagan.html

When I look at all the wines enjoyed over the last months, this Pinot Noir is the wine which left me with the most satisfaction. I can almost feel the flavours, and that elegant texture in my month. Pinot Noir can be made in so many styles, this lighter style is definitely what I enjoy the most.
 


2- Marqués De Murrieta Finca Ygay Reserva 2006, DOCa Rioja, Spain

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/06/marques-de-murrieta-finca-ygay-reserva.html

Another stunning wine from Spain, I just wish that more wineries would hold onto their wines until all elements have had time to integrate and that their wines are entering their drinking window. What I especially like about this wine is Rioja trademark; superb aromatics.



3- Giuseppe Campagnola Le Bine Monte Foscarino Soave Classico 2011, DOC Veneto, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/06/giuseppe-campagnola-le-bine-monte.html

Another great vintage for Giuseppe Campagnola Soave. Now there were many wines that could have earned this spot but none more deserving then this one, when you considered the incredible value that this beautiful wine represents. This is what Italy does so well, wines meant to be enjoyed at the table

My top three enjoyed wines for May 2013

This was a very interesting month for me on the wine front. I spent five days in New York City, browsing through as many wine shop as I could, with my favourite two being; the Burgundy Wine Company and Crush Wine & Spirit. I also enjoyed some memorable wines in a few wine bars in NY. Apart from the Domaine Cros de la Mûre, Côtes du Rhône Villages, Massif D’ Uchaux 2007 which I reviewed on this blog, I also enjoyed a glass of dry Riesling at Terroir Wine Bar, Carl Ehrhard Rüdesheimer Berg Rottland Riesling Feinherb 2010, which was very interesting, I would describe as crisp, refreshing and edgy. It was also with great pleasure that I attended the German Wine Fair in Toronto on May 28 (more on that fair in a future post).  While in Toronto, friends and I had an awesome evening at Skin + Bones Wine Bar, enjoying a bottle of Seven Hills Merlot 2009 from Seven Hills Vineyard in Walla Walla Valley, Washington state (wish I had taken a photo for a review). I would not want to end this post without mentioning a few wines which did not make my top three picks but deserve some recognition; Henry of Pelham Reserve Baco Noir 2010 and Castello Di San Sano Guarnellotto Chianti Classico Riserva 2008.   

My top three wines in May

1- Ateca Atteca 2010, Aragon, Calatayud, Spain


http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/05/ateca-atteca-2010-aragon-calatayud-spain.html

In the number one spot, this was an easy pick. There is something special with Spanish Grenache, especially when it is this aromatic and sensuous. My only regret is not having purchased more bottles of this wine. Truly memorable.

2- Campigli Vallone ‘Terre Nere’ Brunello Di Montalcino 2006, Docg Tuscany, Italy


http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/05/campigli-vallone-terre-nere-brunello-di.html


There is a good reason why I have many Brunello’s in my cellar. With a little bottle ageing, these wines are always flavourful with so many food pairing possibilities.   


3- Beaulieu Vineyard BV Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, USA

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/05/beaulieu-vineyard-bv-cabernet-sauvignon.html

I have never been disappointed by any of the wines from Beaulieu Vineyard. Always well balanced with subtle flavours and fine texture, like this wine here.

My top three enjoyed wines for April 2013

An interesting month for my continued wine education, which included  attending the California Wine Fair here in Ottawa earlier this month. When I look at the 16 wines reviewed this month, again my love affair with Italian wines are on full display, with my top two picks. What never seems to amaze me is the variety of grapes and styles of wine coming out of Italy. I reviewed 4 wines from Italy, from Veneto to Tuscany, and Sicily and they were all very good. Not making my top three list but deserving to be mention here, Jabob's Creek St-Hugo Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 from Australia and Quinta De Ventozelo Reserva 2009 from Portugal. 

My top three wines in April

1- Antolini Morópio Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, Doc Veneto, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/04/antolini-moropio-amarone-della.html

I love a new discovery. My first experience with wines from Antolini Morópio, and after this experience certainly not the last. A seriously good wine here, sensuous texture with great flavours and a superb value for Amarone. 

2- Cellole Chianti Classico Riserva 2007, Docg Tuscany, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/04/cellole-chianti-classico-riserva-2007.html

Here is a well made Chianti Classico Riserva tailor made to be enjoyed with a great meal. For me, at all stages of this wine, from the quality of the grapes used to make this wine, to the great work at the winery. Nothing is overdone. A beautiful, authentic Chianti experience, went back to repurchase. 

3- Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Grand Reserve Pinot Noir 2010, VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/04/jackson-triggs-niagara-estate-grand.html

For me, I find it very hard to purchase a Pinot Noir, to many of them try to be what they should not be, a full bodied red. In good hands, like the Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate, this Pinot Noir hits all the right notes for me, aromatic, great flavours, well balanced and pretty.

My top three enjoyed wines for March 2013

A fine group of mostly reasonably price wines where enjoyed this month. I have often noticed that the most expensive don't always make my top three, I must admit my expectations are heightened when I spend over $50.00 a bottle. These very enjoyable wines did not make my top three but are worth an honourable mention; Graham Beck Bowed Head Chenin Blanc 2010 from South Africa, Tabali Reserva Especial 2009 from Chile and Domaine Grand Veneur Les Champauvins Côtes du Rhône 2010 from France. Now here are my top three wines for this month;

My top three wines in March

 

1- Poliziano Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2009, Docg, Tuscany, Italy 

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/03/poliziano-vino-nobile-di-montepulciano.html

 

I have been following Poliziano Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano through many vintages now (but we did not see the 2008 vintage in our market), and for me the 2009 vintages is as beautiful as their 2007 vintages. All the elements are in place for this wine to age gracefully over the next 4-5 years. I have three more in my cellar and looking forward to see their evolution over the next few years.

 2- Angulo Innocenti Malbec 2010, La Consulta, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina 

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/03/angulo-innocenti-malbec-2010-la.html

This inaugural vintage for Angulo Innocenti Malbec sure was delicious, well structured, age worthy and deserving of its number 2 place, based on its outstanding value. I originally bought only one bottle but went back and purchased 3 more. 
 

3- Castello Di Querceto Chianti Classico Riserva 2008, Docg, Tuscany, Italy 

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/03/castello-di-querceto-chianti-classico.html


What I like about Sangiovese is its ability to work so well at the table. When you spend a few hours putting a meal together, there is nothing more rewarding then opening up a beautiful wine like this one.

My top three enjoyed wines for February 2013

A nice diversity of global wines enjoyed this month. I was quite happy with a number of wines under $20.00 this month. Two of these wines shared the number three spot. I coudn't finish this post without giving a special mention to the following three wines which in any other month could have been in my top three and I would strongly recommend; Michele Castellani Cinque Stelle Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, Reininger Syrah 2007 and Mount Langi Ghiran Kneebones Shiraz 2007. Now here are my top three wines for this month;

My top three wines in February

1- La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva Especial 2001, Rioja, Spain 

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/02/la-rioja-alta-vina-ardanza-reserva.html

 

Another Spanish wine making my top pick. I swear that I am not looking to receive a Spanish citizenship, but I really enjoy their wines. What can I say, when you consider quality and price and the fact that I didn’t have to cellar it, that it was aged for me, is a nice bonus.

2- Penfold Bin 389 Cabernet/Shiraz 2008, South Australia, Australia

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/02/penfold-bin-389-cabernetshiraz-2008.html

A lot of wines this month were very smooth and enjoyable, but sometimes smooth can be a bit boring. Penfold Bin 389 is a lot, but boring it is not, I definitely love the complexity and structure of this blend. Great wine.
 

3- Poderi Angelini Primitivo Di Manduria 2008, DOC, Puglia, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/02/poderi-angelini-primitivo-di-manduria.html

and

    Santorini Assyrtiko 2011, Pdo Santorini, Greece

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/02/santorini-assyrtiko-2011-pdo-santorini.html

Both of these very enjoyable wines deserve this spot for the same reasons. Both of these wines have personality, they are terroir driven and represent great value.  



My top three enjoyed wines for January 2013

 

Looking back at the many wines reviewed this month; I must say that I am pretty satisfied with my purchases. That being said, for the first time in a while, there wasn’t a clear choice for the number 1 spot. I was quite happy with a number of wines under the $20.00 mark, like De Martino Legado Carmenère 2010, Sivas Sonoma Old Vine Zinfandel 2009, Don Jacobo Reserva 2004 and the very interesting Castellani Poggio Al Casone La Cattura 2010. I also enjoyed the Gemma Gibblin Riserva Barolo 2005 even if it tasted more like a spicy Pinot. I continue find it difficult to purchase Pinot Noir that appeals to my palette, perhaps I should look more closely at Barolo. Now here are my top three wines for this month; 

 

My top three wines in January

 

1- Legón Reserva 2005, DO Ribera del Duero, Spain

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/01/legon-reserva-2005-do-ribera-del-duero.html

When you consider the quality and enjoyability of this 100% Tempranillo based wine, at this price, I find it to be an absolute steal. Needles to say that I went back to purchase plenty more, before they are all sold out.  

 

 

2- Stonestreet Monument Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Alexander Mountain Estate, Alexander Valley, California, USA

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/01/stonestreet-monument-ridge-cabernet.html

Not originally on my shopping list from the December 8, 2012, LCBO New Release, but based on all the great reviews, I decided to splurge a little. I am glad I did, this is a solid California Cabernet.

 

 

3- Marc Brédif Vouvray 2010, Ac Loire, France

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2013/01/marc-bredif-vouvray-2010-ac-loire-france.html

This is another great vintage for Marc Brédif Vouvray. I enjoyed it on three seperate occasions with several friends, the verdict was always the same, outstanding wine.

My top three enjoyed wines for December 2012

Looking back at all the wines enjoyed this month either at home or at various Holiday parties,  apart from the three wines selected here in my top three, I found myself relying on old favourites which I have previously reviewed here on my blog. First, Castellani Filicheto Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2009 previously released in August and reviewed in October; and the Salcheto Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2006 released in November and also reviewed in November. Both of those Italian wines are drinking really well right, now especially the Salcheto which is so smooth. I have recommended both of these wines too many friends and work colleges and they all have enjoyed them. Apart from my top three, here are a few wines which left with also left a very good impression; Camus Vineyard Zinfandel 2009, Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2008 and Domaine De Billa-Haut Occultum Lapidem 2009. Now here are my top three picks;

My top three wines in December

1- PB Hein Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Napa Valley, California, USA

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/12/pb-hein-cabernet-sauvignon-2005-napa.html

This was an easy pick at the top as number one. What a beautiful and flavourful maturing Cabernet from this small California boutique winery. I wish more wineries would hold on to their wines until they are ready to enjoy. I have to admit I splurged on another bottle before they were all sold out.

2- Remo Farina Montefante Riserva Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, Doc, Veneto, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/12/remo-farina-montefante-riserva-amarone.html

I had originally bought this wine with the intention to open it up during the Holidays, and it sure lived up to all the hype. A rich and full bodied Amarone, which was enjoyed by all four of us, over diner on a cold winter night.

3- Wynns Coonawarra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, 53rd Vintage, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/12/wynns-coonawarra-estate-cabernet.html

This is a seriously good Cabernet Sauvignon at this price point, which in my view, all elements are starting to integrate nicely (if you do enjoy a bit of crunchy tannins in your wine), and will only get better over the next three to four years. 

My top three enjoyed wines in November 2012

I could have easily made a top six wine picks this month. Apart from the three wines which made the final list, three wines from Italy also left me with a very good impression. First, the best valued wine I enjoyed this month by far was Vigne Nuove Di Musella Valpolicella Superiore 2009 from Veneto; followed up by this very stylish and mature Salcheto Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2006, from Tuscany; and finally this well priced and very elegant Poggiotondo Brunello Di Montalcino 2006 also from Tuscany. All three wines have a real sense of place, well made, and I would strongly recommend. Now here are the wines which made my top three list;



My top three wines in November

1-Marqué de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial Rioja 2004, Rioja, Spain

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/11/marque-de-murrieta-castillo-ygay-gran_18.html

Another great wine from Spain which blew me away, the cellaring is all done for you, and what you have here is a very smooth wine with great flavour.

2-Nk’Mip Cellars Mer’r’iym 2008, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/11/nkmip-cellars-merriym-2008-okanagan.html

It seems that these days, that most British Columbia wineries are making a premium Bordeaux or Bordeaux/ Rhône blend. This one is a first effort from Nk’Mip and is absolutely superb. Their 2009 vintage of Mer’r'iym was just awarded one of the top wines at this year’s Wine Access Canadian Wine Competition.

 

3-Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel 2010, Sonoma County, California, USA

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/11/seghesio-sonoma-zinfandel-2010-sonoma.html

Fans of California Zinfandel are definitely a very enthusiastic, loyal group with an annual convention dedicated to their favourite grape. Making great and balanced Zinfandel can be quite a challenge; so many things can get out of control, including high alcohol. But this Zinfandel, from one of my favourite producers, pulled it all together, quite a luscious example without going over the top, while still achieving great balance.

My top three enjoyed wines in October 2012

I always find it interesting looking at the list of wine reviewed over the last month. Once again a few wines priced around the $20.00 mark end up delivering the most bang for the money. Here are few examples of some wines which did not make my top three list but could easily have been; Canonica A. Cerreto Chianti Classico 2008 from Italy – another well made Sangiovese wine, Artezin Zinfandel 2010 from California – elegant and peppery style zin, Altocedro Reserva Malbec 2009, Uco Valley from Argentina – a rich Malbec with great texture and finally Chateau Montelena Nappa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 From California – a young Cabernet that will only get better over the next few years. When it is released here in Ontario, I will definitely buy again. Here are the wines which made my top three list;
 

My top three wines in October

1-Castellani Filicheto Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2009, Docg, Tuscany, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/10/castellani-filicheto-vino-nobile-di.html

Not the most high scoring wine, but by far the most enjoyable and easy to enjoy wine when considering the incredible value that this delicious wine represents. This is a classic style of Sangiovese based wines, where great production work was done both at the vineyard and at the winery. Needless to say I went back to purchase again, awesome wine.
 

2-Villa Maria Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/10/villa-maria-cellar-selection-sauvignon.html

What’s not to like with this Sauvignon Blanc, incredibly refreshing loaded with vibrant flavours. A classic and well balanced New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc at a fair price.



3-Alain Jaune & Fils Terrasses de Montmirail Gigondas 2009, Rhône, France

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/10/alain-jaune-fils-terrasses-de.html

Another excellent wine from Alain Jaune & Fils. My favourite blends from the Rhône region of France, are where Grenache plays a lead role (like in this wine) and where Mourvèdre plays a very minor role (under 5%) by adding complexity and color. But in this Gigondas, there is no Mourvèdre, and it works for me.

My top three enjoyed wines in September 2012

Another interesting line-up of wines tasted this month, 17 wines from 7 different countries and only one big disappointment. Apart from my top three picks this month, again, it’s really hard to narrow my choices down to three picks but here are a few wines which also deserved some recognition; Deumayen Trez Reserva Malbec 2007 from Argentina, this is a real comfort wine, lots of flavours, very smooth and very enjoyable, I had to go back and purchase another, and Beaulieu Vineyard Tapestry Reserve 2008 from California, a well made, elegant ready to enjoy Bordeaux blend.

My top three wines in September

1- Te Mata Coleraine 2007, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/09/te-mata-coleraine-2007-hawkes-bay-north.html

When you have a good friend (and sommelier) visiting from Out of town, you want to open something special. I had heard a lot of great things about this wine, and it sure lived up to the expectation and then some. Most enjoyed wine by far, this month.
 

2- Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/09/whitehaven-sauvignon-blanc-2011.html

A one - two finish from New Zealand on my top wines of the month. This is a perfect example of the style of Sauvignon Blanc I enjoyed, with tropical/citrus fruit, great acidity, crisp and refreshing.
 

3- Mission Hill Oculus 2006, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/09/mission-hill-oculus-2006-okanagan.html

My best experience with Mission Hill Oculus so far, has been Oculus 2003, enjoyed at a Christmas dinner party in December 2009. A mature, well integrated wine that was so smooth and elegant. The Oculus 2006 has all the elements to achieve that complexity and finesse, it just needs a couple more years to get there. Which means, I will need to be patient with my remaining bottle. Still quite impressive and enjoyable right now.

My top three enjoyed wines in August 2012

A very interesting selection of global wines were enjoyed this month. My love affair with more mature wines is on full display with the first two of my top three. There are two wines which did not make my list but are worth mentioning; Verbena Brunello Di Montalcino 2007 from Tuscany in Italy, a most elegant Brunello, that given an additional 1-2 years would most likely score in the top three of my monthly top wines (I had to purchase another bottle) and Coriole Vineyards Shiraz 2009 from McLaren Vale in Australia, great fruit went into the making of this wine along with great work in the vineyard, and just enough oak to give this wine great structure.

My top three wines in August

1-Inspiración Valdemar Edición Limitada 2003, Rioja, Spain


http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/08/inspiracion-valdemar-edicion-limitada.html

An easy pick at number 1 is this mature beauty from Spain, which left me with the most memorable impression. This wine was so smooth with great flavours and all elements of this wine well integrated.


2-Burge Family Olive Hill 2006, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia


http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/08/burge-family-olive-hill-2006-barossa.html

This wine benefited from almost two years in my cellar, patience paid its dividend here. A beautiful complex and savoury Rhône blend. This wine would rival many Châteauneuf-du-Pape at twice the price.

3-Dog Point Chardonnay 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand


http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/08/dog-point-chardonnay-2009-marlborough.html

I often have a hard time buying Chardonnay, I find them too oaky. But this Chardonnay is sooooo classy, so enjoyable.  Kudos to the winemakers here

My top three enjoyed wines in July 2012

When I look at the list of wines reviewed this month, a few things comes to mind. On the plus side, aromatics, the wines which left me with the best impression, were the wines with complex and sensuous aromatics. I often use this expression; you can’t score a run in baseball if you don’t get to first base. Well, the aromatics are first base for me. I find this element of winemaking very important, you get the aromatics right, you have me hooked. Now on the negative side, I still see a great deal of overly oaked wines. I would really like to see the oak toned down, which would make for fresher wines. This month four wines really stood out for me, apart from the top three, Paul Clover Chardonnay 2010 from South Africa left a very good impression on me. What a well made and enjoyable Chardonnay, first experienced with Paul Clover wines, not the last one, I am sure.


My top three enjoyed wine in July;


1-Wakefield St. Andrews Shiraz 2004, Clare Valley, Australia

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/07/wakefield-st-andrews-shiraz-2004-clare.html

I wish more Australian wineries would hold onto their wines until they are drinking at their best. This premium wine from Wakefield is absolutely stunning, what a treat.   

2-Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Ockfener Bockstein Riesling Kabinett 2008, Mosel,
Germany

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/07/reichsgraf-von-kesselstatt-ockfener.html

What a well made and delicious wine for such a low price, a fantastic value. Riesling still seems to be a hard sell, I don’t understand why. On the plus side, it keeps the price down for lovers of Riesling like me.

3-Hester Creek The Judge 2008, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/07/hester-creek-judge-2008-okanagan-valley.html

Another winner from Canada’s Okanagan Valley, and for this sommelier, the food pairing possibilities are endless. This is one of those well balanced wines which make your dish better and the dish should make the wine better. 

My top three enjoyed wines for June 2012

An interesting lineup of wine tasted this month. I was reminded again that I much prefer Sauvignon Blanc, when it does not include Semillon. For me, I associate Sauvignon Blanc as dry, crisp and refreshing, Semillon adds sweetness and barrel fermentation which I am not a big fan, at least not in my Sauvignon Blanc.

Lately I find myself buying much older vintage wine like Spanish Reserva, Grand Reserva and is my number one wine this month. In my view, many wines are released way to young, newborn, if you will, straight out of the barrel. Wines from Argentina, Australia, Chile and California for example benefit from 2-4 years in the bottle, which allows them to gain
elegance and the oak to integrate with the wines with acquired complexity.

Two wines share the number three spot, I could not decide on only one; both were equally interesting and enjoyable.

My top three enjoyed wine in June;


1-Mitchell McNicol Shiraz 2003, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/06/mitchell-mcnicol-shiraz-2003-clare.html

What a gorgeous wine here, with my cellar full of wines waiting to mature, to be enjoyed at their best. I am more then willing to spend a little more to experience a fully mature, complex and ready to drink red wine like this Shiraz. I returned to purchase two more.

2-Poplar Grove The Legacy 2006, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/06/poplar-grove-legacy-2006-okanagan.html

I became a fan of this winery when I moved to British Columbia in 2006, especially their reds, like Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah and my number 2 pick this month, a Bordeaux blend called The Legacy. Now if I can order these wines here in Ontario that would be fantastic.
  

3-Recanati Reserve Single Vineyard Merlot Kp 2007, Galilee, Israel

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/06/recanati-reserve-single-vineyard-merlot.html

If you have been following my blog, you may have realized my love of Merlot. Not just any style of Merlot mind you, I like them dry, smooth and plumy, nicely layered and well balance. Just like this interesting Merlot from Israel, which turned out to be quite a surprise for me. This is another example of wine with some age in a bottle, drinking beautifully right now. Great winemaking here. I returned to purchase more, before they all disappeared.

  Silvio Grasso Barbera D'Alba 2009, Piedmont, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/06/silvio-grasso-barbera-dalba-2009.html

I am a big fan of Barbera, not all wines need to be sweet. Italians have been making wines to be enjoyed with food for centuries. Like this delicious and really enjoyable Barbera, paired with a pasta dish with tomatoes, shrimp and dill.

My top three enjoyed wines for May 2012

May turned out to be a very good month for my continued wine education, attending the New Zealand Wine Fair here in Ottawa certainly helped understand their wines and climate and was very enjoyable. An interesting list of wines to choose from this month, ten different countries mostly reds with two very good white wines. To narrow my list down to three is always difficult. Which wine left me with the most enjoyment? It could be a wine which offers great value. Four wines which did not make my list but turn out to be quit enjoyable which I would like to mention; two Spanish Rioja, Lealtanza Reserva 2005 and Finca Allende 2006, Best's Western Bin 1 Shiraz 2009 from Australia and finally from my own country of Canada, Poplar Grove Cabernet Franc 2007 from the beautiful Okanagan Valley in British Columbia.


My top three enjoyed wine in May;

1-Mission Hill Compendium 2006, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/05/mission-hill-compendium-2006-okanagan.html

An easy pick for the number 1 spot. Who knew I would enjoy this wine so much? When I last tasted this wine, 2 1/2 years ago, I found it to be imposing but with fine potential. But time in my cellar changed all that, a big wine with lots of details very seductive and delicious. This is a good example of  what Canada can make, some serious red wine.

2-Two Rivers of Marlborough Convergence Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough, New Zealand
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/05/two-rivers-of-marlborough-convergence.html

I don't often purchase Sauvignon Blanc, bordering around the $30.00 price tag, but the reviews were very good and I decided to splurge a little. I am glad I did, this was a very complex, refreshing and truly enjoyable.

3-Fattoria Di Basciano Il Corto 2007, IGT Tuscany, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/05/fattoria-di-basciano-il-corto-2007-igt.html

This is another wine which benefited from some time in my cellar. From the time of purchase to the day I opened this bottle, 20 months in my cellar sure made this wine very memorable in deed. A beautifully well made complex red blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon.

My top three enjoyed wines for April 2012

A good variety of wines this month, with 8 different countries, mostly reds with the exception of two whites. Unfortunately the most expensive turned out to be the most disappointing. It has been two to three months since I have had a cork taint or TCA bottle, than 3 in one week including 2 of the same wine on the same night. This particular wine Casa Emma Chianti Classico 2009. Their previous bottles were so good and then these two corked bottles. You wonder how many people would open one of these corked bottles, not knowing of the wine fault. Just on the smell alone, this wine is not likely to impress for sure and unlikely that these people would purchase this wine again. This would be a shame, since the wine in this bottle is not the final product that the winemaker made.

Sometimes when I open a bottle, like this months Pascal Jolivet Sancerre 2010 from la Loire,  France and see that this winery used a very good quality cork, dark colour (older trees), longer than most and very hard, it shows me their attention to detail. A very good Sauvignon Blanc.

My top three enjoyed wine in April;

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

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/04/duckhorn-decoy-cabernet-sauvignon-2009.html

This wine left me with such a great impression, such elegance for a young Cabernet, yet well structured and flavourful. Great wine making at play here, there is a lot of attention to detail before achieving such a great wine. I had never tasted Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon before, since this was my first time, I only bought one bottle and tried to locate a few more, but unfortunately they were all sold out. I will be looking for the next vintage.

2-San Guido Le Difese 2009, Igt Toscany, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/04/san-guido-le-difese-2009-igt-toscany.html

I always like Italian wines for their ability to pair well at the table. And this wine is a great example of that. The Cabernet Sauvignon offers structure and style while the 30% Sangiovese adds a lot of complexity, acidity and earthiness.

3-Quinta de la Rosa Tinto 2008, Douro, Portugal

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.ca/2012/04/quinta-de-la-rosa-tinto-2008-douro.html

Another new discovery for me, what a delightful and very enjoyable wine here. This is the second month in a row that Portugal makes an appearance in my top three monthly wine. There is a reason I am venturing more and more in my local stores, to wines from Portugal. I am finding some fantastic wine and at great value.

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. 

My top three enjoyed wines for February 2012

Again, narrowing down the top favourites turned out to be very difficult. I couldn't finish this post without giving a special mention to these three wines which were very enjoyable and I would strongly recommend; Maycas Del Limari Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 from Chile, Muga Reserva Seleccion Rioja 2005 from Spain and Duckhorn Merlot 2009 from Napa Valley, California.

My top three enjoyed wines in February;

1-Jim Barry The McRae Wood Shiraz 2006, Clare Valley, Australia

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2012/02/jim-barry-mcrae-wood-shiraz-2006-clare.html

I just love this wine, it seems that vintage after vintage, it consistently delivers the goods. Without any doubt a top quality grape in this bottle and excellent wine making at play here.  

2-Marchesi De’ Frescobaldi Tenuta Di Castiglioni 2007, Tuscany, Italy

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2012/02/marchesi-de-frescobaldi-tenuta-di.html

This is where a very good vintage and a little time in your cellar pays big dividends. Awesome nose, loads of energy and flavours, which turn out to be a fantastic value.

3-Muratie Shiraz 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa

http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2012/02/muratie-shiraz-2007-stellenbosch-south.html

I love a new discovery, talk about a very elegant Shiraz, finely textured with exquisite balance. Worth every penny, returned to purchase two more. 

My top three enjoyed wines for January 2012

It could have been easily an Italian hat-trick, until I opened up the Yalumba The Signature Cabernet/Shiraz, knocking out the San Giorgio Ugolforte Brunello Di Montalcino 2005 for the number three spot. During the winter months, bigger and fuller bodied wines are usually more comforting and indulgent. These types of wines are reflected on this list, well, apart from the surprising pick at number two.

My top three enjoyed wines in January;

1-Pasqua Vigneti Black Label Amarone Della Valpolicella 2007, Veneto, Italy
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2012/01/pasqua-vigneti-black-label-amarone.html

Talk about a wine which is beautifully made and at $36.95, represents a superb value for an Amarone. This wine was released last October, and still available in our market (of Ontario). Need I say, strongly recommended.

2-Casanova Di Neri Sant'antimo Rosso 2008, Tuscany, Italy
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2012/01/casanova-di-neri-santantimo-rosso-2008.html

Another terrific value from Tuscany, a superb food wine with great aromatics, great energy and length. I loved the quality and texture of the tannins. A wine with a real sense of place with strong varietal characteristics. Could not say enough good things about this wine.

3-Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz 2005, Barossa Valley, Australia
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2012/01/yalumba-signature-cabernet.html
 
A full bodied blend where both grapes bring something special to the end product. The Shiraz offers beautiful fruit and style while the Cabernet Sauvignon offers deeper, richer texture and structure. A robust, tasty and savoury wine with great use of oak. Awsome stuff here.

My top three enjoyed wines for December 2011

When looking at the list of wine reviewed this month, to my surprise, I had not reviewed a single white wine. Not that I did not drink any, but those enjoyed had previously been reviewed on this blog. Recently I purchased some Spiegelau white wine glasses and can't wait to try them. If the previous month was a great month for French wines, in December Italy took over this spot with some great food friendly wines. It is always difficult to narrow the list down to three wines, here are a few wines that did not make my list but are worth an honourable mention; Kilikanoon Parable Shiraz 2007, McLaren Vale, Australia and Mission Hill Quatrain 2006, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada and Ramon Bilbao Gran Reserva 2004, Rioja, Spain. Speaking of Italy, I could not pick one wine for the number 3 spot, which explains the two wines sharing this spot. Each of them for two very good and different reasons. Here are the wines that made the final cut.

My top three enjoyed wines in December;

1-Château Ségur de Cabanac 2004, AC Saint-Estèphe, Cru Bourgeois, France
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2011/12/chateau-segur-de-cabanac-2004-ac-saint.html

Mixing power and great structure with elegance, you get this fantastic Bordeaux which is drinking beautifully right now. An easy pick at number one.


2-Stags' Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Napa Valley, California, USA
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2011/12/stags-leap-cabernet-sauvignon-2006-napa.html

I am not sure that if this would have been a full size bottle, it would have been in this position. Benefiting from being in a small bottle, allowed this wine to mature quicker. A robust yet approachable Cabernet Sauvignon

3-Valiano Poggio Teo Chianti Classico 2006, Tuscany, Italy
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2011/12/valiano-poggio-teo-chianti-classico.html

I cannot say enough about this Chianti Classico with a real sense of place, love the fact that its 100% Sangiovese grapes, a wine which doesn't taste manipulated, where the winemaker let the grapes and region express themselves. An at $17.95 a fantastic value, I have already returned to purchase, twice.


  -Canonica A. Cerreto Chianti Classico Riserva 2007, Tuscany, Italy
http://paulnjoywine.blogspot.com/2011/12/canonica-cerreto-chianti-classico.html

The right food and wine pairing should enhance and make each other better. When you achieve this in a restaurant; the wine arrives at your table at cellar temperature, is poured without overflowing your glass and when your glass is refilled with you hardly noticing it. Discovering a wine and vineyard which you haven't heard before, really make for an memorable evening.