THE MEDITERRANEAN Fun Facts - Vintages
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THE
MEDITERRANEAN
TABLE
Fun Facts
about Fine Wine
D I S COV E R O U R L AT EST CO L L ECT I O N, I N STO R ES SAT U R DAY, F E B R UA RY 3, 2018
wines
of the
month
Smooth reds for dinners with
a special someone
MASCOTA VINEYARDS GRAN MASCOTA
MALBEC 2014
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
443333 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2
TASTING NOTE: Lovely aromas of stone and
dark fruits. Medium to full body with blackberry,
spice, and walnut character. Pretty finish.
Energetic. Why wait? Score: 93 (James Suckling,
jamessuckling.com, June 21, 2017)
Full-bodied & Smooth
GUICCIARDINI STROZZI MOMI 2014
DOP Maremma Toscana Rosso, Tuscany, Italy
535336 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 1
TASTING NOTE: Pretty wine with dark berry, spice
and chocolate aromas and flavors. Full to medium
body, silky tannins and a fruity finish. It is a blend
of sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot,
and montepulciano d’abruzzo. Drink now.
Score: 92 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com,
Nov. 21, 2016)
Full-bodied & Smooth
New at Vintages
welcome february 3
pg.2 THE
MEDITERRANEAN
TABLE
plus...
WHAT’S ON IN VINTAGES
pages 26-27
PRODUCT INFO & TASTING NOTES
pg. 22 pages 32-46
SHOPPING LIST
pages 47-48
LOCAL TALENT
FLAGSHIP EXCLUSIVES
pg.14
pages 50-51
VINTAGES SPECIAL OFFERS
pages 52-53
FUN FINE
WINE FACTS * vintages.com
FRONT COVER: LA TREMENDA MONASTRELL 2014, LAFAGE CÔTÉ SUD 2015 (see pages 30 and 28)
THE MEDITERRA Take a sunny winter getaway with delicious wines from France, Italy, Spain, Greece and Lebanon, and vibrant-flavoured dishes to match. The wines of the sunny Mediterranean are brightly flavoured, approachable and famously food-friendly. Here are a few ideas on how best to enjoy these wines, perfectly suited to any table and any budget. February is dark and cold – any of these wines and recipes will be like a sunny getaway for your palate. 2 VINTAGES
SHOP
ONLINE
ANEAN
All the wines in this Mediterranean
feature can be ordered online
at lcbo.com or through our app.
See page 51 for details.
TABLE
VINTAGES 3
Savoury, herbal wines with
Mediterranean
Vegetable
Bean Soup
People sometimes shy away from pairing wine
with soups, but the roasted vegetables and mixed
herbs in this rich, hearty bean soup provide a
flavoursome partner for wines with savoury,
herbal and spicy tones, a silky mouthfeel or saline
minerality, such as that found in the La Tremenda.
Putting the “friendly” in
“food-friendly”
The term “food-friendly” often pops up when
people talk about wine, but what does it mean?
Aren’t all wines meant to be enjoyed with food?
Yes – but there are regions and styles that can take
a meal to the next level. Generally speaking, the
key to a wine’s food-friendliness lies in its acidity
– as in, the more, the better (think of how a
squeeze of lemon enhances fish). Additional
complexity from a wine’s flavours, tannins,
structure and body will unlock and enrich the
meal even more. The most important thing is to
drink what you enjoy. If a wine pairing suggests
one you don’t enjoy, it may be the “perfect”
pairing, but it won’t work for you. Start with a
wine that you like and experiment as much as you
can. Consider if the wine complements or
contrasts with the food; e.g., a rich red with a meaty
stew or a zippy white with pasta in cream sauce.
And remember, what works for one person may
not appeal to another – some people like ketchup
on their fries, while others prefer mayonnaise.
Experiment, experiment, experiment. Can you
think of a more delicious homework assignment?
4 VINTAGES
FEUDO MACCARI NOTO NERO
D’AVOLA 2015
IGP Terre Siciliane, Sicily, Italy
(Tenuta Sette Ponti)
Dried strawberry, spice, hints of citrus
and berry.
Also try with the veal or lamb.
91 points (James Suckling,
jamessuckling.com)
Full-bodied & Smooth
339101 (D) 750 mL $16.95 2
EDETÀRIA VIA EDETANA 2014
DO Terra Alta, Spain
Plum, anise, black olive and cocoa. Light
tannins and fresh acidity.
Also try with the veal or lamb.
91 points (Thomas Matthews,
winespectator.com)
Full-bodied & Smooth
132613 (XD) 750 mL $23.95 2
New at Vintages
LA TREMENDA MONASTRELL 2014
DO Alicante, Spain
(Enrique Mendoza)
Esparto grass, Mediterranean herbs and
savoury saline. Subtly textured.
Also try with the lamb or beef.
92 points (Luis Gutierrez,
robertparker.com)
Full-bodied & Smooth
490011 (XD) 750 mL $17.95 2
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE,
SEE PAGES 29 TO 30.
VINTAGES 5
Juicy reds with
Veal Scallopini
with Toscano
and Tomato-
Caper Butter
When you’re pairing a wine with this veal
scallopini, you need something with the acidity
to keep pace with the complex mix of flavours.
Look to a juicy red with lots of vibrant red fruit with
earth, smoke and spice. Each of the three we’ve
chosen has a perfectly suited, zesty core.
6 VINTAGES
LAFAGE CÔTÉ SUD 2015
IGP Côtes Catalanes, Roussillon, France
Pepper, garrigue and sweet fruit. Juicy and
charming.
Also try with the lamb or vegetable bean soup.
87-89 points (Jeb Dunnuck,
robertparker.com)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
395236 (D) 750 mL $15.95 2
ROCCA DEL DRAGONE
AGLIANICO 2013
IGP Campania, Italy
(Orion Wines)
Ripe raspberry, cherry, plum, dark berries,
dried herbs and smoke.
Also try with the lamb or beef.
Medium-bodied & Fruity
538462 (D) 750 mL $16.95 2
New at Vintages
PINACLE DE FAKRA 2012
Kfardebian Valley, Lebanon
(Château Fakra)
Stone fruit, ripe cherry and smoke. Fruit-
driven, jammy finish.
Also try with the lamb or beef.
GOLD (gilbertgaillard.com)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
641670 (XD) 750 mL $21.95 1
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE,
SEE PAGES 28 TO 29.
VINTAGES 7
Big reds with Gyro Burgers with Oven- roasted Lemon Potatoes Cabernet is a great – indeed classic – partner for lamb. It has the intense flavours and tannins to stand up to lamb’s rich taste. Grenache is another great option, as its floral and herbal notes will pick up on and enhance the herbal tones in these burgers. PERLE BY ROSELINE ROUGE 2015 AP Côtes de Provence, France (Roseline) Round and balanced, with expressive smoky black fruit. Also try with the beef or vegetable bean soup. Medium-bodied & Fruity 539874 (XD) 750 mL $17.95 2 New at Vintages
DOMAIN MEGA SPILEO GRAND CAVE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010
PGI Achaia, Greece
Lovely, with beautiful mid-palate finesse and
balanced oak.
Also try with the beef or vegetable bean soup.
90 points (Mark Squires,
robertparker.com)
Full-bodied & Smooth
539924 (XD) 750 mL $27.95 2
New at Vintages
PARÉS BALTÀ MAS PETIT GARNATXA/
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015
DO Penedès, Spain
Floral, blackcurrant, blackberry, mineral and light
spice. Tangy and long.
Also try with the vegetable bean soup or veal.
Full-bodied & Firm
114264 (XD) 750 mL $16.95 2
4 Organic product
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE,
SEE PAGES 28 TO 30. VINTAGES 9Crisp, dry whites with Clams and Cherry Tomatoes with Linguine For this shellfish dish, you need a crisp, bright, dry white wine. Wines with citrusy, zesty acidity and a saline minerality are ideal. Refreshing acidity will also allow the wine to handle the tomatoes. ARGYROS ASSYRTIKO 2016 PDO Santorini, Greece Lime, pear and salty sea-spray. Fresh, dry and intense. Also try with the vegetable bean soup. 93 points (Joanna Simon, Decanter) Aromatic & Flavourful 387365 (XD) 750 mL $27.95 2 10 VINTAGES
INZOLIA DEI FORNELLI 2016
DOC Sicilia, Sicily, Italy
(Feudo Montoni)
Crisp and dry, with ripe melon and bracing
lemon acidity.
Also try with the veal scallopini.
Aromatic & Flavourful
539932 (XD) 750 mL $22.95 2
New at Vintages
ALTA ALELLA PB PANSA BLANCA 2016
DO Alella, Catalunya, Spain
Citrus pith, pear skin, herbs, ginger, lemon
and green apple.
Also try with the gyro burgers and oven-
roasted lemon potatoes.
88 points (Josh Raynolds, vinous.com)
Aromatic & Flavourful
417949 (XD) 750 mL $15.95 2
4 Organic product
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE,
SEE PAGES 28 TO 29.
VINTAGES 11
VINTAGES 11Powerful reds with Bœuf en Daube à la Provençale The Grenache and Syrah in the Château de Tréviac Corbières make it a natural for beef stews, while the Felline Primitivo di Manduria and the Audarya Cannonau di Sardegna both have the fruit, spice and acidity to enhance and elevate the vegetable and herb flavours of the dish. 12 VINTAGES
CHÂTEAU DE TRÉVIAC
CORBIÈRES 2015
AP, Midi, France
(Arnaud Sié)
Tangy dark fruit, cassis, black pepper and
underbrush. Structured and balanced.
Also try with the lamb or vegetable bean soup.
Full-bodied & Smooth
670505 (XD) 750 mL $16.95 2
FELLINE PRIMITIVO DI MANDURIA 2016
DOP, Puglia, Italy
Cherry, blackberry, plum, mulberry and kirsch.
Smooth, refined, powerful and elegant.
Also try with the veal or lamb.
Full-bodied & Smooth
536318 (D) 750 mL $22.95 2
New at Vintages
AUDARYA CANNONAU DI SARDEGNA
2016
DOC, Sardinia, Italy
Ripe red fruit, spice, and vanilla on the finish.
Also try with the veal or lamb.
Medium-bodied & Fruity
538728 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE,
SEE PAGES 28 TO 29.
VINTAGES 13JUST THE FACTS, PLEASE. Want to be a fountain of knowledge at your next dinner party? These nine key wine facts, plus unique wines that deliciously illustrate them, will help make you the host with the most. Fact: Wine is delicious. But that’s just the beginning. The wine world is filled with fascinating facts and tasty tidbits to engage our imagination, enhance our appreciation and share with our friends. Here are nine things you may not know about wine.
SHOP
ONLINE
All the wines in this feature can
be ordered online at lcbo.com or
through our app. See page 51
for details.
1
Wine transforms
over time.
As wine ages, tannins smooth out, sharp acids
mellow and fresh-fruit aromas and flavours evolve
into meaty, leathery and dried-fruit notes. One of the
joys of keeping a wine cellar is tracking the progress
of wine over time. Some of the finest red wines and
sweet wines are structured to last for decades – as
are a handful of dry whites, such as cool-climate
Rieslings. No cellar? No problem. Some wines, such
as many Bordeaux reds, are aged for years at the
winery before release.
CHÂTEAU LANESSAN 2000
AC Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France
(Delbos-Bouteiller)
Still youthful with black fruit and cassis notes
alongside dried fruit, earth and leather.
Full-bodied & Smooth
534289 (XD) 750 mL $69.95 2
New at Vintages
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTE AND TO ORDER ONLINE,
SEE PAGE 31.
VINTAGES 152
Chianti was originally
a white wine.
Back in 1400, the earliest version of Chianti was a white
wine. It wasn’t until 1872 that Baron Bettino Ricasoli, whose
winery is now the oldest in Italy, worked out the recipe for
the Sangiovese-based red Chianti we know today. Ricasoli,
known as the “Iron Baron” for his steely determination,
began his experiments at just 20 years of age, with the goal
of making a wine that would rival the quality of the great
French wines of the time.
BARONE RICASOLI ROCCA GUICCIARDA
RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2014
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
Blackberry, blueberry, chocolate and spice.
Chewy tannins and a pretty finish.
91 points (James Suckling,
jamessuckling.com)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
943613 (XD) 750 mL $24.95 2
3
Chilean Carmenère
was an accident.
For years, winegrowers in Chile were confused that
the Merlot in their vineyards wasn’t growing like
normal Merlot. Turned out there was a good reason:
the vines they had were actually Carmenère, a virtually
extinct grape variety from Bordeaux, which had been
brought over from France in the 19th century and yet
was not correctly identified until J-M Boursiquot’s
1994 hunch was confirmed by DNA analysis in 1997.
Since then, the Chileans have embraced Carmenère
and made it their signature wine.
SANTA CAROLINA RESERVA DE FAMILIA
CARMENÈRE 2014
Rapel Valley, Chile
Roasted pepper and chocolate. Concentration
is balanced by freshness.
90 points (Luis Gutierrez, robertparker.com)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
034942 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2
16 VINTAGES4 The Kiwis figured out how to farm sunshine. New Zealand burst onto the global wine scene with a style of Sauvignon Blanc unlike anything ever tasted before. Their secret weapon: canopy management, which involves strategically pruning leaf cover to maximize the sunlight impact on the grapes. In cool climates like New Zealand’s, it’s relatively easy to grow grapes with brilliant natural acidity, but harder to bring out ripe, tropical-fruit flavours. The right amount of sunshine can coax out the ripeness with- out sacrificing natural acidity. FRAMINGHAM SAUVIGNON BLANC 2016 Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand Classy, distinctive and restrained, with ripe stone fruit and nectarine. 95 points (Bob Campbell, MW, bobcampbell.nz) Aromatic & Flavourful 606848 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2 FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE, SEE PAGES 30 TO 31.
5
Spain’s signature
ageing regimen
is French-inspired.
Spain’s most famous wine region, Rioja, is known for
ageing its wines in oak barrels. The technique was
first introduced to the region in the 18th century
by Manuel Quintano, who’d travelled to France
and been inspired by the wines of Bordeaux. Oak
maturation became such a staple of Spanish
winemaking that age – Joven (young), Crianza,
Reserva and Gran Reserva from least to longest
aged – is often built into the names of the
country’s wines.
DON JACOBO RESERVA 2010
DOCa Rioja, Spain
(Bodegas Corral)
Fresh ground pepper and piquillo peppers.
Spicy, dark and intense.
91 points (wineandspirits.com)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
313270 (XD) 750 mL $22.95 2
CHÂTEAU SAINTE MARIE ALIOS 2014
AC Côtes de Bordeaux-Cadillac, France
Bold black fruit balanced by fresh acidity. Ripe,
structured and spicy.
91 points (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast)
Full-bodied & Smooth
526848 (XD) 750 mL $15.95 2
New at Vintages
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE,
SEE PAGE 31.6
Brunello is
Sangiovese
(sort of).
All elephants are animals, but not all animals are
elephants. Similarly, all Brunello is Sangiovese, but not
all Sangiovese is Brunello. The grape variety known
as Brunello, and found in Brunello di Montalcino, is
actually a specific clonal variation (natural mutation) of
Sangiovese, the grape of Chianti. If anything, the grape
is even more of a specialty in Montalcino: whereas
the red wines of Chianti must contain at least 75%
Sangiovese, Brunello di Montalcino permits no other
grape variety whatsoever.
LAZZERETTI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
Decadent and polished, with notes of dried cherry and
forest floor.
96 points (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
318352 (D) 750 mL $53.95 2
VINTAGES 197 All oak is not created equal. The most famous sources of oak for wine barrels are France (specifically the forests of Allier, Limousin, Nevers, Tronçais and Vosges), Croatia (Slavonia) and the United States. Each type of oak contributes its own nuances. In general, French oak is known for adding elegance and subtle spice, Croatian oak for sturdiness and American oak for rich coconut and vanilla notes. Recently, intrepid local producers are exploring Canadian oak, which tends towards the richness of American and the subtle spice of French. FEATHERSTONE CANADIAN OAK CHARDONNAY 2016 6 VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario Smoked wood and pine cone, crème brûlée, pineapple, golden russet apple and yellow plum. Full-bodied & Rich 149302 (XD) 750 mL $21.95 2 FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE, SEE PAGE 30.
8
Cabernet Sauvignon
has famous parents.
Cabernet Sauvignon is actually the offspring of Cabernet
Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. When DNA profiling discovered
this fact in 1996, it took the wine world completely by
surprise, since nobody believed a red wine grape could
have a white wine grape as a parent. The discovery was,
coincidentally, foreshadowed by the name of Cabernet
Sauvignon, which takes “Cabernet” from the similarity of its
grape to that of Cabernet Franc, and “Sauvignon” from the
similarity of its leaf to that of Sauvignon Blanc.
FREEMARK ABBEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013
Napa Valley, California
Blackberry, blackcurrant, white chocolate, allspice and
tobacco leaf. Seriously concentrated.
92+ points (Robert Parker Jr., robertparker.com)
Full-bodied & Firm
904532 (XD) 750 mL $69.95 2
9
Most vines have
North American roots.
Not in terms of heritage, but literally. In the 19th century, a
root-munching aphid called phylloxera ravaged the vineyards of
Europe. The solution to this epidemic was to graft European
vines onto North American rootstock, which is more resistant.
Today, nearly all wine vines are grafted, except in particularly
remote or sandy soils such as those found in Chile. For this
reason, wines grown on their original rootstock, as is Primus
The Blend, are not uncommon in Chile, yet nearly nonexistent
in most other wine regions around the world.
PRIMUS THE BLEND 2014
Colchagua Valley, Chile
Graphite and green pepper. Polished tannins
and a subtly oaked finish.
93 points (Tim Atkin, MW, timatkin.com)
Full-bodied & Firm
712463 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2
VINTAGES 21LOCAL TALENT Red Wines for VALENTINES Keep your love close to home this year with a local red sure to set hearts aflutter. They say home is where the heart is. This Valentine’s Day, make the adage truer than ever by treating your sweetie to a red wine grown right here in Ontario. These reds will pair deliciously with hearty (see what we did there?) dishes in the context of a romantic dinner for two, and they’ll also make lovely sippers. 22 VINTAGES
LOCAL
TALENT
Sue-Ann Staff’s Fancy Farm Girl Canadian Cy Young Award winner and the stews, smoked or ripe cheeses, stuffed
Flamboyant Red is a downhome-chic first Canadian inducted into the MLB Hall red bell peppers, or smoked paprika
wine that’s effortlessly elegant and of Fame; a portion of sales support the chicken stroganoff.
unpretentiously fabulous. It’s made in a Fergie Jenkins Foundation charities. The
light, playfully edgy style that pairs wine is sleek and savoury, and will make a Some couples rekindle their passion by
perfectly with charcuterie and creamy tasty pairing for thick steaks, meaty renewing their vows, while others head to
cheeses, slow-cooked ribs, fig-and pastas, flavourful cheeses, or gourmet exotic locations for a love affair – with
-sausage pizza, or pasta in rosé sauce. It’s ballpark franks with fire-roasted tomatoes each other. Foreign Affair Pinot Noir,
the perfect gift to share with the fancy or and Dijon mustard. which uses a portion of dried grapes to
flamboyant someone in your life (farm girl intensify the taste and textural experience,
or otherwise). North 42 Degrees winery is named for the is a romantic getaway in a bottle. It has the
42nd parallel, which intersects its elegance and tangy-fruity, earthy qualities
If your valentine is a sports buff, or simply vineyards in Lake Erie North Shore. Their you know and love in Pinot Noir, along with
shares your love of giving back to the North 42 Degrees Cabernet Franc attractive layers of extra depth (just like
community, the Fergie Jenkins Limited makes a cute (or acute?) choice for the your valentine). It’s a beautiful choice for
Edition Red from Rockway Vineyards is geography or geometry geek in your life, mature cheeses, beef bourguignon, rack
an all-star selection. Order of Canada and really, anyone with a fondness for big, of lamb and roasted beets, or dark
recipient Ferguson “Fergie” Jenkins, ripe red wines. Its satiny smoothness and chocolate and cherries.
born in Chatham, Ontario, was the first subtle, smoky spice is well suited to winter
ABOVE: Winemaker
Sue-Ann Staff with canine
assistant Brix at her
Lincoln winery. RIGHT:
Rockway Vineyards head
winemaker David Stasiuk,
who has worked vintages
in BC, New Zealand and
Ontario since 2009. LEFT:
This romantic, Italian-
inspired dining room at
Foreign Affair is used for
private functions.
24 VINTAGESthe
Share a love of wine
with your valentine
finer
points
all year long!
Subscribe to the Vintages NORTH 42 DEGREES CABERNET FRANC 2016
magazine at vintages.com. VQA Lake Erie North Shore
Ripe dark fruit, cherry, raspberry, black licorice, chocolate and
black pepper spice.
Full-bodied & Smooth
546283 (XD) 750 mL $21.95 2
New at Vintages
ROCKWAY VINEYARDS FERGIE JENKINS
LIMITED EDITION RED 2016
VQA Ontario
Lithe and fresh, with juicy red cherry and dark fruit.
Medium-bodied & Fruity
546036 (D) 750 mL $16.95 2
New at Vintages
SUE-ANN STAFF FANCY FARM GIRL FLAMBOYANT RED 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula
Approachable and fruity, with underlying spice notes.
Light-bodied & Fruity
394080 (XD) 750 mL $14.95 2
THE FOREIGN AFFAIR PINOT NOIR 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula
Complex and elegant, with notes of red fruit and leather.
Medium-bodied & Fruity
127332 (XD) 750 mL $34.95 2
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES, SEE PAGE 35.
VINTAGES 25WHAT’S ON A snapshot of exciting
events, great wines to try,
new collections, special
offers and more.
GÉRARD BERTRAND
CÔTE DES ROSES ROSÉ
AP Languedoc, Midi, France
373985 (D) 750 mL $18.95
Medium-bodied & Dry
TH E ES S ENTIA LS CO LLECT I O N
Wines for
VALENTINES
Just in time for one of the year’s biggest days for gift giving, we’ve added a popular rosé to
our Essentials Collection of customer favourites. Gérard Bertrand’s dry, refreshing, pale pink
LAURENT-PERRIER CUVÉE
BRUT ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE wine in a glass-stoppered bottle with a base uniquely sculpted into a blooming rose makes a
AC, France
158550 (XD) 750 mL $99.95 great gift, sipper or dinner wine. Fine Champagne is another Valentine’s Day favourite, and you
Rich & Complex
can’t go wrong with Laurent-Perrier, the best-selling rosé bubbly in the world. Pop it open for
an intimate celebration, or serve it with rack of lamb for an elegant dinner. View the collection
or buy online at vintages.com/essentials.
O NLINE CO LLECTIO NS
online February Classics
shopping IF YOU’RE PLANNING AHEAD for
Valentine’s Day and want a gift for a very
DID YOU KNOW THERE ARE TWO PLACES
special someone, look to our newest
TO SHOP ONLINE FOR VINTAGES PRODUCTS? Classics Collection, where you’ll find a
1. Wines and spirits from our release handful of 2014 Bordeaux, including the
catalogue feature stories and Essentials iconic Rothschild, the coveted 2013
Collection can be ordered online at “La La” wines from Guigal, and from Italy,
lcbo.com or through our app. the 2013 Isole e Olena Cepparello in magnum, 3L and 6L formats.
2. Products from our Classics Collection, Australia puts up some gems too, including the 2015 Clonakilla
Bordeaux Futures and online special Shiraz/Viognier. And for the spirits connoisseur, there’s the legendary
offers, plus event tickets, can be Hennessey Richard Cognac and Gran Patrón Piedra Tequila.
ordered at vintages.com/shop. Ordering starts February 1st at 8:30 a.m.
Visit vintages.com/classics.
26 VINTAGESUP CO MING EV EN T S
Viña Montes
and Kaiken
A showcase of premium wines
from Chile and Argentina
More 2018 Events
AURELIO MONTES SR. IS CONSIDERED ONE OF THE FATHERS OF CHILE’S MODERN
TORONTO
WINE REVOLUTION. A trailblazer and innovator, he inspired other Chilean wine producers
EVENT : Brunello
to develop their unique terroirs. In 2000, he became fascinated with the very different terroirs of walk-around tasting
Argentina, and today, Kaiken, headed by his son Aurelio Jr., is winning awards. Most recently, their with 80+ wines
WHEN : March 5, 2018
Kaiken Ultra Las Rocas Malbec 2015 was named one of Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of
2018. Join father and son for an evening of great wines, good-natured ribbing and fascinating EVENT : Château
Margaux dinner
stories of the past, present and future of great winemaking in South America. WHEN : March 7, 2018
Visit vintages.com/events
WHEN: Wednesday, February 28, 2018 WHERE : Modus Restaurant, Toronto PRICE : $125/ticket for details.
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Sign up for our weekly Vintages Latest e-newsletter and
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VINTAGES 27NEW
Order these
products
online at
lcbo.com!
MEDITERRANEAN ROUSSILLON oak (65% first use, 35% second use ... this
seems to be a more restrained and balanced
(as shown on pages 2 to13) LAFAGE CÔTÉ SUD 2015 style than some earlier vintages. It shows
IGP Côtes Catalanes beautiful mid-palate finesse. At times, it
seems understated. Yet, it’s quite lovely. Just
FRANCE – RED WINE TASTING NOTE: The 2015 Côtes Catalanes when I thought it was declining with air, it
Cote Sud is a juicy, charming, gulpable beauty improved. It still has a real backbone and it
that has ample character in its peppery,
MIDI garrigue and sweetly fruited profile. Made from
still has that oak overlay, but it shows well
right off the bat, too. Then, it develops and
60% Syrah and 40% Grenache, drink it over gets better, pulling in some of the cream ...
CHÂTEAU DE TRÉVIAC
the coming year or three. Score: 87-89 (Jeb this is approachable and very pleasing. Drink
CORBIÈRES 2015
Dunnuck, robertparker.com, April 28, 2017 ) date: 2016-2030. Score: 90 (Mark Squires,
AP
(Arnaud Sié) Medium-bodied & Fruity robertparker.com, April 27, 2016 )
Arnaud Sié crafts this wine from 80% Grenache
750 mL (D) $15.95 2 Full-bodied & Smooth
and 20% Syrah, and you can expect it to reflect
the concentration and density for which the
395236 ÍGTDOÎ 750 mL (XD) $27.95 2
region is known. Look for a wine with impressive 539924 ÍUÇ80Î
structure and balance, tangy dark fruit, cassis, New at Vintages
black pepper and underbrush tones and a
food-friendly acidity. These are wines that can
be cellared for 5-7 years after vintage.
Full-bodied & Smooth
750 mL (XD) $16.95 2 GREECE – WHITE WINE
670505 Íc%%~Î ARGYROS ASSYRTIKO 2016 ITALY – WHITE WINE
PDO Santorini
TASTING NOTE: Appetisingly fresh, zippy SICILY
nose: lime juice, pears and salty sea-spray.
Beautifully fresh, dry and intense with incisive, INZOLIA DEI FORNELLI 2016
but modulated, acidity and an elegantly DOC Sicilia
textural feel. Fruit in the citrus spectrum. Palate (Feudo Montoni)
goes on and on. Drinking Window: 2017-
TASTING NOTE: Inzolia, a grape long associated
PROVENCE 2024. Score: 93 (Joanna Simon, Decanter,
with the production of the fortified wine
April 12, 2017)
Marsala, is now being used to craft crisp, dry
PERLE BY ROSELINE ROUGE 2015 Aromatic & Flavourful white wines such as this: aromatic and
AP Côtes de Provence 750 mL (XD) $27.95 2 expressive with a winning, characterful nose.
(Roseline)
Elegant and refreshing, with ripe melon and a
TASTING NOTE: Provence is best known for 387365 ÍFiahÎ vibrant, bracing lemony acidity. A superb
rosé, but the red wines crafted here are nothing option for seafood. (Vintages panel, June
to blush about. This one, made from Cabernet 2017)
Sauvignon and Syrah, is round and balanced
Aromatic & Flavourful
with expressive smoky black fruit. It is, perhaps,
more delicately articulated than other Cabernet- 750 mL (XD) $22.95 2
based wines, but don’t mistake that for
539932 ÍUÇ@HÎ
weakness – this will be a great choice for grilled
lamb, ribs or steak. (Vintages panel, June 2017) GREECE – RED WINE New at Vintages
Medium-bodied & Fruity
DOMAIN MEGA SPILEO GRAND CAVE
750 mL (XD) $17.95 2 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010
539874 ÍUÆj]Î PGI Achaia
TASTING NOTE: ... aged for 18 months in an
85/15 mixture of French oak and American
Products on these pages will be available to
order on lcbo.com by 9:00 a.m. February 3.
Online quantities are limited.
28 VINTAGES SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018
MEDITERRANEAN & FUN WINE FACTS
PRODUCT & TASTING NOTES
ITALY – RED WINE integration and balance with good acidity, SPAIN – WHITE WINE
well-articulated ripe red fruit, spice and a deft
vanilla note on the finish. Give this a little time
CAMPANIA in the glass and it’s even better. A great choice ALTA ALELLA PB PANSA BLANCA 2016
for herbed pork. (Vintages panel, June 2017) DO Alella, Catalunya
ROCCA DEL DRAGONE AGLIANICO 2013 TASTING NOTE: Green-tinged straw. Musky,
IGP Campania Medium-bodied & Fruity
sharply focused citrus pith and pear skin
(Orion Wines) 750 mL (XD) $19.95 2
aromas are complemented by suggestions of
TASTING NOTE: Smooth and elegant with ripe 538728 ÍUwNEW
Order these
products
online at
lcbo.com!
SPAIN – RED WINE CONT’D
FUN WINE FACTS CHILE – RED WINE
LA TREMENDA MONASTRELL 2014 (as shown on pages 14 to 21) PRIMUS THE BLEND 2014
DO Alicante Colchagua Valley
(Enrique Mendoza) CANADA – WHITE WINE TASTING NOTE: This no longer includes any
TASTING NOTE: ... The 2014 feels very tender, Syrah, so is now a five-way blend of Bordeaux
it has the esparto grass austerity of the stony ONTARIO grapes dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s
vineyards with the chalky soils and a myriad of another classy wine from Rodrigo Soto, with
Mediterranean herbs. They used some stems FEATHERSTONE CANADIAN polished tannins, notes of graphite and green
for the fermentation, which added a fine thread OAK CHARDONNAY 2016 6 pepper and a dense, subtly oaked finish. Drink:
and makes it subtly textured. It has the dusty VQA Niagara Peninsula 2018-2024. Score: 93 (Tim Atkin, MW,
tannins and the saline tastiness of the lime- timatkin.com, 2017, Chile Special Report)
TASTING NOTE: Complex notes of smoked
stone soils. It represents a superb value and a Full-bodied & Firm
wood and pine cone, crème brûlée, pineapple,
great introduction to the Monastrell from
golden russet apple and yellow plum. Bright 750 mL (XD) $19.95 2
Alicante; the price is hard to believe. Drink Date:
acidity gives lift on the palate, and the finish is
2016-2019. Score: 92 (Luis Gutierrez,
layered and lengthy. Pair with pork chops, or 712463 Íg8_!Î
robertparker.com, June 29, 2016 )
carnitas with apple slaw and pineapple salsa.
Full-bodied & Smooth (Vintages panel, Dec. 2017)
750 mL (XD) $17.95 2 Full-bodied & Rich
490011 ÍQÂ+tÎ 750 mL (XD) $21.95 2
149302 Í.}”“Î
SANTA CAROLINA RESERVA DE FAMILIA
CARMENÈRE 2014
Rapel Valley
This wine received 93 points in the 2017
Descorchados Wine Guide.
PARÉS BALTÀ MAS PETIT GARNATXA/ USA – RED WINE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015 TASTING NOTE: The dark, opaque and concen-
DO Penedès trated 2014 Carmenere Reserva de Familia
TASTING NOTE: This is crafted using organic
CALIFORNIA manages what is difficult to achieve with the
grape: freshness. It does have the cigar ash,
practices and made using grapes sourced roasted pepper and chocolate aromas of the
FREEMARK ABBEY
from two vineyards situated at 230 metres grape, but the palate is medium-bodied with
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013
and 315 metres above sea level. Aged in fine tannins, good balance and that freshness.
Napa Valley
French oak, the resulting wine is structured Drink date: 2017-2020. Score: 90 (Luis
and firm with a vibrant acidic backbone. TASTING NOTE: ... a brilliant example ... 75.1%
Gutierrez, robertparker.com, Apr. 28, 2017)
Mineral and light spice tones work perfectly Cabernet Sauvignon, 10.9% Merlot and the rest
with the impressive floral, blackcurrant and Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, this Medium-bodied & Fruity
blackberry notes. Tangy and long with a firm, wine spent nearly 26 months in oak. Opaque 750 mL (XD) $19.95 2
drying finish. (Vintages panel, July 2017) purple in color, it exhibits beautiful blackberry
and blackcurrant fruit with hints of white choco- 034942 ÍB~È2qÎ
Full-bodied & Firm
late, allspice and tobacco leaf. It is rich, full-
750 mL (XD) $16.95 2 bodied, seriously concentrated, and has 2013’s
114264 Í+J`sÎ relatively serious structure and tannic clout ...
Drink Date: 2019-2050. Score: 92+ (Robert
4 Organic product Parker Jr., robertparker.com, Oct. 28, 2016 )
Full-bodied & Firm
750 mL (XD) $69.95 2
904532 ÍzM@hÎ
Products on these pages will be available to
order on lcbo.com by 9:00 a.m. February 3.
Online quantities are limited.
30 VINTAGES SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018
MEDITERRANEAN & FUN WINE FACTS
PRODUCT & TASTING NOTES
NEW ZEALAND – WHITE WINE CHÂTEAU SAINTE MARIE ALIOS 2014 LAZZERETTI BRUNELLO DI
AC Côtes de Bordeaux - Cadillac MONTALCINO 2012
TASTING NOTE: Warm and ripe, this is a DOCG
FRAMINGHAM
SAUVIGNON BLANC 2016 delicious, structured wine from a blend of TASTING NOTE: Forest-floor and dried-cherry
Marlborough, South Island Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot aromas follow through to a medium to full
from Stéphane Dupuch. It has fine tannins that body, decadent flavors and ripe and polished
TASTING NOTE: Increased barrel fermentation give a spicy character aided by 14 months in tannins. Great texture. Goes on for minutes.
component, now up to 10% with a small French oak as well as bold black fruits that are Excellent! Drink or hold. Score: 96 (James
percentage on skins. A very textural sauvignon developing well. The acidity at the end adds Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Feb. 19, 2017)
blanc while still retaining ripe stone fruit and the freshness. Drink from 2019. Score: 91
nectarine, plus a hint of savoury lees character. Medium-bodied & Fruity
(Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 1, 2016)
The acidity is nicely integrated but still helps 750 mL (D) $53.95 2
drive a lengthy finish. A classy and distinctive Full-bodied & Smooth
wine in a restrained style. Drink 2016-2020. 750 mL (XD) $15.95 2 318352 Í?sTNÎ
Score: 95 (Bob Campbell, MW, bobcampbell.nz,
Nov. 25, 2016) 526848 ÍTdP9Î
Aromatic & Flavourful
New at Vintages
750 mL (XD) $19.95 2
606848 Í\dPAÎ
SPAIN – RED WINE
DON JACOBO RESERVA 2010
ITALY – RED WINE DOCa Rioja
(Bodegas Corral)
TUSCANY Gold Medal winner at Berliner Wein Trophy
FRANCE – RED WINE 2016 and Concours Mondial de Bruxelles
BARONE RICASOLI ROCCA GUICCIARDA 2016.
RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2014
BORDEAUX DOCG
TASTING NOTE: This starts off with a scent
of freshly ground black pepper, then continues
CHÂTEAU LANESSAN 2000 TASTING NOTE: Blackberry and blueberry to develop over the course of several days,
AC Haut-Médoc character with hints of chocolate and spice. moving from simple notes of piquillo peppers
(Delbos-Bouteiller) Medium to full body, chewy tannins and a to a spicy, dark intensity. The wine fills out
pretty finish. Extremely well done for 2014. with air, growing supple and luscious. Decant
TASTING NOTE: Planted in deep Garonne
Drink now. Score: 91 (James Suckling, this for any grilled meats. Score: 91 (wineand
gravel, this is sourced from vines of more than
jamessuckling.com, Oct. 20, 2017) spirits.com, Dec. 2017)
30 years of age. The Bouteiller family worked
this land for eight generations. Since 2009, Medium-bodied & Fruity Medium-bodied & Fruity
it has been maintained by Paz Espejo. This 750 mL (XD) $24.95 2 750 mL (XD) $22.95 2
2000 is a fine example of maturing Bordeaux.
Complex and layered, it retains some youthful 943613 Í~D-!Î 313270 Í?@fÉÎ
fruit tones alongside the leather, dried fruit and
earth tones. The tannins are well-integrated
and provide a silky, almost caressing mouthfeel.
This is drinking beautifully now, and will con-
tinue to evolve for another 3-5 years. (Vintages
panel, Dec. 2017)
Full-bodied & Smooth
750 mL (XD) $69.95 2
534289 ÍUJyÅÎ
New at Vintages
Shop mobile!
Visit lcbo.com or use our LCBO app to order these products right from your phone –
and have them delivered to any store, or to your door. For complete ordering instructions,
please see page 51.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018 VINTAGES 31UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018
SPIRITS
product notes BOURBON
1792 SMALL BATCH KENTUCKY
STRAIGHT BOURBON
DRINKABILITY INDEX
Kentucky
This index is intended as a guideline and reflects the collective
(Barton 1792 Distillery)
view of our purchasing panel.
TASTING NOTE: A high rye component adds peppery
lift to the predominant and sweeter corn in this
1 DRINK NOW: Enjoy tonight. There is no benefit to cellaring. bourbon, formerly named Ridgemont Reserve. But
this is a rich, creamy spirit at its core. Brown sugar,
2
DRINK OR HOLD: Can be enjoyed now, but may be
matured further by cellaring, depending on individual
butter, toffee, apple pie and licorice come through on
a velvety texture. It carries the (precisely measured)
preference. 46.85-per-cent alcohol well, thanks to its depth of
flavour. Score: 94 (Beppi Crosariol, The Globe and
Mail, Jan. 17, 2017 )
3
HOLD: Ideal for further cellaring. This wine may well be
enjoyed now by some, but we feel that it will develop 208918 750 mL $49.95
favourably under ideal cellaring conditions.
BLANTON’S SINGLE BARREL
PERCEIVED SUGAR CONTENT SPECIAL RESERVE KENTUCKY
Perceived dryness/sweetness by tasting evaluation. Vintages STRAIGHT BOURBON
scale ranges from Extra Dry to Sweet: XD, D, M, MS, S. Please Kentucky
discuss specifics with our Product Consultants. (Old Charter Distillery Co)
TASTING NOTE: Blanton’s, in the distinctive spherical
WINE STYLES bottle topped with a racehorse figurine, specializes
in single-barrel, superpremium bourbon ... Single-
Every wine in this section includes a style, above the product
barrel whiskies tend to be more robust, but this
number (e.g. Full-bodied & Smooth, Aromatic & Flavourful). These
excellent entry-level Special Reserve bottling, with the
simplified flavour profiles are designed to help customers quickly
green label, achieves remarkable smoothness while
and easily choose products. For detailed descriptions of each
retaining considerable single-barrel character. Bottled
style, and more information, visit lcbo.com/winestyles.
at 40-per-cent alcohol (lower than Blanton’s three
other offerings), it’s big on smooth caramel and
ORGANIC PRODUCTS peppery spice along with hints of orange, vanilla and
Wines designated as organic 4 contain 30 mg/L or less of free charred toast topped with melted butter. Score: 92
sulphur for dry wines (99 g/L sugar).
ALCOHOL CONTENT SCOTCH WHISKY
The alcohol/volume content for any product released by Vintages
is available on our website. Visit vintages.com and enter the
LONGMORN 16-YEAR-OLD SPEYSIDE
SINGLE MALT
LCBO# into the Product Search field.
Unchillfiltered
TASTING NOTE: Appearance: Clear, golden yellow.
Products in this catalogue are available in limited quantities. Aroma: Malty, biscuit nose with wafts of fresh
Please see store staff for details. coffee, apple skin, balsawood and subtle hints of
tinned pineapple. More sweet biscuit and pineapple
Prices listed in this catalogue are subject to change without
with water. Taste: Quite sweet, fruity and rounded
notice. Up-to-date prices are listed online. For current pricing, with delicate wafts of smoke, strong bourbon notes,
simply visit vintages.com and enter the product name or hints of espresso and oily mineral notes. Water
number in the product search box. Vintages cannot assume dries, killing this malts attractive richness. Aftertaste:
responsibility for typographical errors in this catalogue. All Refreshingly clean finish features minty, grapefruit
prices include applicable container deposit and HST. and flinty, minerally notes. Overall: Rich and biscuity
with bitter chocolate and espresso. Score:
HHHHK (diffordsguide.com, April 21, 2017)
539569 750 mL $259.95
32 VINTAGES SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018
FORTIFIED ICEWINE
PORT LAKEVIEW CELLARS
CABERNET SAUVIGNON ICEWINE 2015 6
VALE MEÃO VINTAGE PORT 2014 VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
DOP This wine was awarded a Gold Medal at the 2017
TASTING NOTE: The 2014 Vintage Port is a blend All Canadian Wine Championships.
of 60% Touriga Franca with 20% Touriga Nacional
and small dollops of other grapes. It comes in with TASTING NOTE: Red and dark berry tones with a
97 grams per liter of residual sugar. In this tough year, chocolate undertone. Quite intense with superb
this is pretty nice, one of my happiest finds in Port. balance. Enjoy this with foie gras or dark chocolate.
The fruit is wonderful (which is more than many can (Vintages panel, April 2016)
say) and it is simply delicious on opening, if seeming Lusciously Sweet
to lack a bit of power. If it is not the most concentrated 471813 (S) 200 mL $39.95 2
or powerful VP ever, the next day it showed more
seriously, lacking the initial flamboyance and fruitiness,
but finishing with focus and precision. It has classic
Port flavors. It adds great aromatics and a juicy, lifted
finish. This should be approachable relatively young
and it will be interesting to see if it is a long-term ager, CHAMPAGNE
but it is still Port and it should hold reasonably well.
If it develops well, it may even be entitled to an uptick.
BRIMONCOURT BRUT ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE
Drink date: 2021-2046. Score: 92 (Mark Squires,
AC
robertparker.com, Dec. 30, 2016)
TASTING NOTE: ... complete, stylish and tightly
Sweet focused accompaniment to cuisine, this ... sports a
545046 (S) 750 mL $65.95 3 high percentage of GC fruit. Lifted by a whiff of
potpourri, its complex, creamy and faintly meaty
bouquet of red cherries, raspberries and underbrush
MADEIRA reveals undertones of orange rind and mushrooms.
It’s long and crackly, with an austere but chewy
BLANDY’S DUKE OF CLARENCE palate of punchy pinot driven flavour extending long
RICH MADEIRA and faintly mineral over a fine, chalky spine towards
DOC a drying and savoury finish. Superb. Drink: 2017-
TASTING NOTE: Intense christmas cake, toffee
2020+. Score: 96 (Jeremy Oliver, jeremyoliver.com.
apple and salted caramel with dried figs and hints of
au, Dec. 19, 2016)
cinnamon. Score: Silver Medal (International Wine
Challenge, 2017) Rich & Complex
Sweet
514364 (XD) 750 mL $66.95 2
578682 (S) 750 mL $22.95 2
SHERRY SPARKLING WINE
GONZÁLEZ BYASS NUTTY SOLERA PATRICK CHAN SPARKLING
MEDIUM OLOROSO SHERRY BLANC DE BLANCS 2011 6
DO VQA Twenty Mile Bench,
TASTING NOTE: An exquisite melange of dried fruits, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario
roasted nuts, honey, toffee, mocha and truffly forest TASTING NOTE: Top marks to Flat Rock for releasing
floor notes. And that’s just the bouquet! On the palate this wine just in time to toast silver medallist Patrick
it’s medium sweet with clove, walnut oil, espresso, Chan’s performance at the 2018 Winter Olympics
raisins and orange zest. Here’s a lovely sipper of in Pyeongchang. This local hero features soft notes
immense length and subtlety to enjoy by the fire as of apple, plum and honey with a light, lacy mousse.
you welcome in the days of fall and winter. And it’ll Figuring out the perfect pairing? Try with crab-based
keep, with the cork back in, for weeks. Serve all by appetizers, or lightly salted popcorn or chips.
itself or with cheese, fruit and nuts. Score: 94 (Frank (Vintages panel, Sept. 2017)
Baldock, winexpress.ca, Fall 2015)
Medium-bodied & Flavourful
Medium 546291 (D) 750 mL $29.95 2
035204 (MS) 750 mL $17.95 1
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018 VINTAGES 33UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018
SPARKLING WINE CONT’D STARS BRUT NATURE RESERVA
CAVA 2015
CHANDON SPARKLING ROSÉ Traditional method, DO, Spain
Traditional method, California (Castillo Perelada)
TASTING NOTE: Every summer since 1987, Castillo
TASTING NOTE: This great value in sparkling wine
Perelada hosts one of the most prestigious music
comes from Domaine Chandon, the California arm of
festivals in Europe (the 2018 lineup includes tenor
Chandon, the producers of Dom Perignon. It is a
Jonas Kaufmann and a performance of Massenet’s
traditionally crafted wine produced from Chardonnay
opera Thaïs featuring Plácido Domingo). This bubbly
and Pinot Noir, and spends 12 months resting on the
is a tribute to the stars who perform. It offers fresh
lees. The result is an elegant wine that delivers the
green apple, pear, apricot and citrus with tongue-
bread-and-toast autolytic notes so beloved in wines
tingling acidity. Pair it with paella or tempura, or simply
produced through the Champagne method. Expect
sip while enjoying your favourite music. (Vintages
this to be balanced and approachable, with complex
panel, Feb. 2017)
red fruit tones. Enjoy with seafood or duck. Score: 92
(Natalie MacLean, nataliemaclean.com, Medium-bodied & Flavourful
June 17, 2017 ) 515221 (XD) 750 mL $16.95 1
Medium-bodied & Flavourful
405555 (D) 750 mL $35.95 1
CANADA – WHITE WINE
ONTARIO
LUC BELAIRE RARE SPARKLING ROSÉ CALAMUS OFF-DRY
Product of France RIESLING 2014 6
TASTING NOTE: Brilliant pink garnet color. Bright, VQA Niagara Peninsula
fruity aromas and flavors of berry coulis and mint TASTING NOTE: Much like a Canadian, Riesling can
cookie with a supple, vibrant, finely carbonated, fruity handle the cold; its winter hardiness has made it a very
medium-to-full body and a tingling, complex, orange successful varietal in Ontario. This 100% Riesling
creme brulee, spiced watermelon, and minerals from the Vinemount Ridge appellation shows notes
finish. A beautifully rich and fruity sparkler that is sure of apple, lime, mineral and pear. Acidity beautifully
to please. Exceptional. Score: 92 (tastings.com, balances the residual sugar, resulting in a crisp, fresh
April 28, 2016) wine. Pair with prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella and
basil, or pork chops with a spicy rub. (Vintages panel,
Medium-bodied & Flavourful Nov. 2017)
395384 (M) 750 mL $39.95 1
Off-dry & Fruity
483982 (M) 750 mL $15.10 2
FIELDING GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2016 6
VQA Niagara Peninsula
BOTTEGA GOLD PROSECCO TASTING NOTE: Gewürztraminer is one of the most
DOC Treviso, Veneto, Italy fragrant wines around, and Fielding took great pains
TASTING NOTE: As if the gold bottle weren’t striking to preserve the aromatics in this wine. The grapes
enough, what’s inside is impressive, too. Subtle aromas were cold-soaked to extract the aromatic compounds
of apple, pear and citrus zest waft up from the glass. locked in the skins, and fermentation and ageing was
The palate is light, crisp and elegant with a tangy finish. done in stainless steel. A lovely floral nose leads to
Sip this versatile sparkler with apps, green salads, classic Gewürz flavours of lychee and rosewater, with
turkey or seafood. (Vintages panel, April 2016) notes of apricot and pear. Round and pleasant, with
a long, perfumed finish. Try this with pakoras or a
Light & Fruity lamb-and-apricot tajine. (Vintages panel, April 2017)
621458 (D) 750 mL $26.95 1
Off-dry & Fruity
146753 (M) 750 mL $19.95 2
34 VINTAGES SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018
CANADA – RED WINE THE FOREIGN AFFAIR
PINOT NOIR 2012 6
ONTARIO VQA Niagara Peninsula
When living as expats in Italy in the early 1990s,
ROCKWAY VINEYARDS FERGIE Len and Marisa Crispino discovered the wines of
JENKINS LIMITED EDITION Valpolicella and became fascinated with the
RED 2016 6 appassimento process of drying grapes prior to
VQA Ontario pressing to create a richer, more concentrated
TASTING NOTE: A portion of the monies made from wine. After acquiring prime farmland in the Niagara
sales of this Baco Noir and Cabernet Franc blend goes Peninsula in 2000, the Crispinos formed Foreign
to the Fergie Jenkins Foundation, which provides Affair and began to craft appassimento wines here in
support to a number of Canadian charities. This is juicy, Ontario. Their 2012 Pinot uses 20% dried grapes
fruity and fun. Ripe and round with red cherry, dark and is aged for 16 months on the lees in French oak.
fruit and some distinctly Cabernet Franc tones mixed Expect this to be a complex, elegant wine with red
in. Lithe and fresh with good length. (Vintages panel, fruit flavours and notes of leather.
Aug. 2017) Medium-bodied & Fruity
Medium-bodied & Fruity 127332 (XD) 750 mL $34.95 2
546036 (D) 750 mL $16.95 2 Featured in Local Talent
Featured in Local Talent
BRITISH COLUMBIA
SPERLING VINEYARDS
NORTH 42 DEGREES PINOT NOIR 2015 6
CABERNET FRANC 2016 6 BC VQA Okanagan Valley
VQA Lake Erie North Shore TASTING NOTE: Made with clones 114 and 777, this
TASTING NOTE: The fun label was specially designed is a bold Pinot Noir, with aromas and flavours of spicy
for Canada’s 150th birthday. Ripe dark fruit, cherry, black cherries. The texture is silky. “Pinot Noir should
raspberry, black licorice, chocolate and black pepper be persistent,” Ann says. “Its power is in its ability to
spice. A wine with a youthful disposition. Try with lamb hold your attention.” This one does. Score: 92 (John
or burgers. (Vintages panel, Aug. 2017) Schreiner, johnschreiner.blogspot.com, Feb. 20, 2017)
Full-bodied & Smooth Medium-bodied & Fruity
546283 (XD) 750 mL $21.95 2 382283 (XD) 750 mL $28.95 2
Featured in Local Talent 4 Organic & biodynamic product
USA – WHITE WINE
CALIFORNIA
SUE-ANN STAFF FANCY FARM GIRL
FLAMBOYANT RED 2013 6 JACKSON ESTATE
VQA Niagara Peninsula CHARDONNAY 2015
So why do they call it Fancy Farm Girl? Owner and Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara
winemaker Sue-Ann Staff says a love of the farm life (Kendall-Jackson)
inspired the name; her family has been growing TASTING NOTE: Lush and open-textured, with
grapes on their 200-year-old farm for over a century. concentrated flavors of ripe apple, pear, dried peach
You can expect an approachable and fruity wine and melon. Creamy midpalate, offering butter and
with underlying spice tones. spice notes on the juicy finish. Drink now through
2020. Score: 89 (Kim Marcus, winespectator.com,
Light-bodied & Fruity
Oct. 31, 2017)
394080 (XD) 750 mL $14.95 2
Featured in Local Talent Full-bodied & Rich
529735 (XD) 750 mL $40.95 2
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018 VINTAGES 35UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018
USA – WHITE WINE CONT’D USA – RED WINE
CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA
LIBERTY SCHOOL CHARDONNAY 2015 BUENA VISTA
Central Coast CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013
One-room schoolhouses were once centres of Napa Valley
knowledge and community in early rural America. In TASTING NOTE: A new offering from the Sonoma-
this spirit, Liberty School pays respect to the tradition based producer meant to recall the estate’s original
of honest work, dedication and perseverance. Raise a founding in the Napa Valley, this wine sources from
glass to educators and students everywhere – and to across that appellation and impresses right away in
yourself as a student of wine – as you appreciate this its succulent and soft approach to the variety. With a
wine’s rich, tropical fruit flavours and buttery texture. backbone of cassis and vanilla, it’s expansive and
lengthy, velvety in texture and very satisfying. Score: 93
Full-bodied & Rich
(Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast, Feb. 1, 2017)
960120 (XD) 750 mL $21.95 1
Full-bodied & Smooth
539106 (XD) 750 mL $59.95 2
CASHMERE ‘BLACK MAGIC’
RED BLEND 2015
California
NAPA CELLARS CHARDONNAY 2014 A blend of Petite Sirah, Mourvèdre, Syrah and
Napa Valley Grenache.
TASTING NOTE: Bright medium light gold color. TASTING NOTE: Garnet black color. Toasty, savory
Bright, toasty, floral aromas and flavors of lemon curd aromas and flavors of roasted nuts, toasted herbs,
on toast, pineapple tart, white toffee, and fancy soap and gherkin with a silky, bright, fruity medium body
with a soft, vibrant, dry-yet-fruity medium body and a and a polished, captivating, medium-length creme
tingling, complex, carefree mango-lime relish, spicy brulee, boysenberry tart, and pencil shavings finish
nougat, cream, and mint finish with silky tannins and with crunchy, chewy tannins and light oak. A round,
moderate oak. A crisp, refreshing chardonnay sipper. savory, juicy yet structured red blend reminiscent of a
Gold Medal. Exceptional. Score: 92 (tastings.com, ripe Cru Beaujolais. Exceptional. Best Buy. Score: 91
Feb. 18, 2016) (tastings.com, Sept. 26, 2017)
Full-bodied & Rich Full-bodied & Smooth
225342 (XD) 750 mL $28.95 2 539213 (XD) 750 mL $22.95 2
GIRARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014
Napa Valley
TASTING NOTE: Despite ... drought concerns and
an earthquake, yields were better than expected and
increasingly it is 2014 that is found to be the great
RODNEY STRONG CHARDONNAY 2016 third in a string of intensely dry vintages. Girard’s is
Sonoma County richer, gritty-grippy saltier and crushes with more
The Rodney Strong Sonoma County Chardonnay is hedonism because of that aridity and intensity of
perennially accessible and easy to enjoy, which has 2014 ... this makes the ’12 seem lean, smoky and
made it a real customer favourite here at Vintages. sharp by comparison. As always it is the effects
Typically ripe and round with impressively articulated rendered by age (even just two years) that create just
fruit aromas and flavours, wrapped up in a nice tidy as mitigating a factor, especially when you consider
package that delivers consistent quality and value. A the size of these tannins ... simply a huge wine that
hit with richly textured seafood dishes, this is a wine knocks you upside the head and leaves your shoes
that will have a broad appeal, making it an easy behind. Any decision to pop now before the end of this
choice for any crowd or entertainment need. decade should be done so with aeration and some
serious thought as to the marbled protein that will be
Full-bodied & Rich served alongside. Drink 2019-2026. Score: 92
226936 (XD) 750 mL $22.95 2 (Michael Godel, winealign.com, March 5, 2017)
Full-bodied & Firm
231712 (XD) 750 mL $39.95 2
36 VINTAGES SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018
KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER’S RESERVE ST. FRANCIS
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014 OLD VINES ZINFANDEL 2014
Sonoma County Sonoma County
TASTING NOTE: The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon TASTING NOTE: Zesty and easygoing, this is fun to
Vintner’s Reserve delivers serious quality for the drink, delivering aromas of black cherry and toasty
money. Dark cherry, smoke, tobacco, leather and spice that combine with lively, medium-bodied rasp-
licorice are pushed forward in this super expressive, berry and grilled anise flavors. Drink now through
budget friendly Cabernet. Drink Date: 2017-2020. 2025. Smart Buys. Score: 90 (Tim Fish, wine
Score: 88 (Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, March 2017) spectator.com, April 30, 2017)
Full-bodied & Smooth Full-bodied & Firm
331603 (XD) 750 mL $27.95 2 539155 (XD) 750 mL $29.95 2
LEESE-FITCH
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015
California
(3 Badge Enology) TROUBLEMAKER RED BLEND 10
Get your calculator out: This Cabernet contains Central Coast
78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 4% Ruby (Austin Hope Collection)
Cabernet (a cross of Cabernet Sauvignon and TASTING NOTE: Wanna start something? If that “thing”
Carignan), 4% Zinfandel, 2% Rubired (a Californian is a dinner party, serve this blend of 50% Syrah,
hybrid based on Tinto Cão) and 2% Petite Sirah, 17% Zinfandel, 15% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre and
sourced from prime sites in Lodi (62%), Clarksburg 8% Petite Sirah. It’s perfumed, savoury and smoky
(28%) and Mendocino (10%). Fortunately, all you with blackberry, cherry, plum, vanilla, meat and black
really need to know is that this all adds up to a complex, pepper notes. Pair it with charcuterie and cheeses,
smoky, richly layered and flavoured wine that will or meaty winter stews. (Vintages panel, May 2017)
be a great partner for grilled or braised beef dishes.
Full-bodied & Smooth
Full-bodied & Firm 478636 (D) 750 mL $24.95 2
451351 (XD) 750 mL $20.95 2
Featured in Arrive in Style
WASHINGTON
CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE INDIAN WELLS
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014
MURPHY-GOODE MERLOT 2013 Columbia Valley
California TASTING NOTE: During the growing season,
TASTING NOTE: Good fruit concentration and a Washington actually sees an average of two hours
velvety texture make this deeply colored, dry wine more sunlight per day than California, and Wahluke
substantial enough for a special occasion. It smells Slope, where 40% of the grapes for this wine were
like spicy oak and tastes like ripe black cherries and sourced, is one of its warmest regions. Combine
blackberries, with a smooth mouthfeel. #77 on the that with a picture-perfect growing season in 2014
Wine Enthusiast 2016 Best Buy Top 100. Score: 90 and you have a juicy, delicious wine full of dark fruit,
(Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast, Nov. 1, 2016 ) mocha and dark chocolate, with notes of coffee and
vanilla from the 14 months in 51% new American
Full-bodied & Smooth and French oak. (Vintages panel, Aug. 2017)
059295 (XD) 750 mL $22.95 2
Full-bodied & Smooth
055764 (XD) 750 mL $26.95 2
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018 VINTAGES 37You can also read
