Thursday, December 31, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
GPCi for July 18th 2009 release at the LCBO
Canada
2007 CAVE SPRING CHARDONNAY MUSQUÉ - $15.95
GPCi - I like the white wines Cave Spring produce. 2007 is the very sought after vintage and the price is calling for a try in a nice hot summer day. I would serve it chilled.
US - California
2005 BERINGER THIRD CENTURY CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $23.95
GPCi - I have tried the wines from Beringer in the past and liked them because they delivered good value for the money. This is a competitive price for a new world Cab Sauv. worth a try.
2006 RAVENSWOOD OLD VINE ZINFANDEL - $22.95
IWC = 90-91.
GPCi - According to Parker, 2006 is a very average year for Zin in California. However, Ravenswood seems to produce a good wine even in a difficult vintage. I had several Ravenswood Zins before and it never failed...
Argentina
2008 SANTA ANA LA MASCOTA CHARDONNAY - $15.95
GPCi - This Chardonnay has everything I like it's "rich and complex wine features ripe pear, pineapple and subtle vanilla-oak flavours". It would be interesting to compare this Chardonnay with the one from Cave Spring.
Australia
2008 STELLA BELLA SAUVIGNON BLANC - $19.95
JH = 95
GPCi - What's not to like here...? great review, fair price for a perfect summer wine. Buy... next...!
2004 PIRRAMIMMA OLD BUSH VINE GRENACHE - $19.95 (Must Try!)
GPCi - never had less than a great Pirramimma. Whether it was their Shiraz or Petit Verdot, it was always very rewarding. I would buy at least 6 bottles with no hesitation.
New Zealand
2008 MOMO SAUVIGNON BLANC - $18.95 (Must Try!)
WS=90
GPCi - another good Sauv Blanc, this time from NZ. Great review by WS and the price is again, fair. no brainer... enjoy.
South Africa
2005 KUMKANI CRADLE HILL CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
WS = 91
GPCi - The WS review got my attention and I would definitely buy one bottle to try this wine. Who knows, that may be the door to South Africa wines for me... :)
France - Bordeaux
2005 CHÂTEAU BOURGNEUF (Pomerol) - $59.00
WS = 91 ; after 2014
GPCi - A very flattering review by WS for a 2005 Pomerol (right bank) wine. A wine from Pomerol with such tasting descriptions, would most likely contain Cabernet Franc and Merlot. This wine could probably lay down until 2025, which makes it attractive for the cellar for the price (good GPCi). I'd buy 1-3 bottles.
2003 CHÂTEAU CÔTE MONTPEZAT (Côtes de Castillon) - $21.95
GPCi - Love the vintage. Love the sub-region and the price is very attractive for a 6 years old Bordeaux. great deal for the Bordeaux-Merlot lovers (70% merlot).
France (Rhone-south)
2007 DOMAINE GRAND VENEUR LES CHAMPAUVINS CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES - $19.95 (Must Try!)
RP = 91 ; now - 2016
GPCi - For me, that's probably THE wine choice of this release. A classic vintage for a great blend from one of my favorite regions with mid-long term cellaring potential. Buy, buy... buy!
Spain - Penedes
2007 GRAMONA GESSAMÍ - $19.95
IWC = 91 ; 30% each of muscat d'Alexandria, muscat de Frontignan and sauvignon blanc, plus 10% gewurztraminer.
GPCi - that's a very interesting blend. seems like a nice-unusual after dinner drink. I would buy 1 bottle to try.
Spain
TORRES FLORALIS MOSCATEL ORO (500 mL) - $16.95
Wine Access = 90
GPCi - another interesting blend from Spain that's worth cheking out. I find it amazing how these not-so-known wines can be so rewarding especially for such price.
CODORNÍU PINOT NOIR ROSÉ BRUT CAVA (Traditional Method) - $16.95 (Must Try!)
GPCi - speaking of price... show me a 100% Pinot Noir Champaign that costs $17. Only Spain can produce Cava worth drinking at that price. I would definitely try it before the BBQ on Saturday.
Gremany
2007 STUDERT-PRÜM RIESLING SPÄTLESE - $24.95
WS=88 ; now to 2024
GPCi - I have/had STUDERT-PRÜM RIESLING SPÄTLESE from previous vintages and I found them very good and cellar worthy. I would not be too much alerted from the WS rate of 88 and buy a few bottles.
2007 CAVE SPRING CHARDONNAY MUSQUÉ - $15.95
GPCi - I like the white wines Cave Spring produce. 2007 is the very sought after vintage and the price is calling for a try in a nice hot summer day. I would serve it chilled.
US - California
2005 BERINGER THIRD CENTURY CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $23.95
GPCi - I have tried the wines from Beringer in the past and liked them because they delivered good value for the money. This is a competitive price for a new world Cab Sauv. worth a try.
2006 RAVENSWOOD OLD VINE ZINFANDEL - $22.95
IWC = 90-91.
GPCi - According to Parker, 2006 is a very average year for Zin in California. However, Ravenswood seems to produce a good wine even in a difficult vintage. I had several Ravenswood Zins before and it never failed...
Argentina
2008 SANTA ANA LA MASCOTA CHARDONNAY - $15.95
GPCi - This Chardonnay has everything I like it's "rich and complex wine features ripe pear, pineapple and subtle vanilla-oak flavours". It would be interesting to compare this Chardonnay with the one from Cave Spring.
Australia
2008 STELLA BELLA SAUVIGNON BLANC - $19.95
JH = 95
GPCi - What's not to like here...? great review, fair price for a perfect summer wine. Buy... next...!
2004 PIRRAMIMMA OLD BUSH VINE GRENACHE - $19.95 (Must Try!)
GPCi - never had less than a great Pirramimma. Whether it was their Shiraz or Petit Verdot, it was always very rewarding. I would buy at least 6 bottles with no hesitation.
New Zealand
2008 MOMO SAUVIGNON BLANC - $18.95 (Must Try!)
WS=90
GPCi - another good Sauv Blanc, this time from NZ. Great review by WS and the price is again, fair. no brainer... enjoy.
South Africa
2005 KUMKANI CRADLE HILL CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
WS = 91
GPCi - The WS review got my attention and I would definitely buy one bottle to try this wine. Who knows, that may be the door to South Africa wines for me... :)
France - Bordeaux
2005 CHÂTEAU BOURGNEUF (Pomerol) - $59.00
WS = 91 ; after 2014
GPCi - A very flattering review by WS for a 2005 Pomerol (right bank) wine. A wine from Pomerol with such tasting descriptions, would most likely contain Cabernet Franc and Merlot. This wine could probably lay down until 2025, which makes it attractive for the cellar for the price (good GPCi). I'd buy 1-3 bottles.
2003 CHÂTEAU CÔTE MONTPEZAT (Côtes de Castillon) - $21.95
GPCi - Love the vintage. Love the sub-region and the price is very attractive for a 6 years old Bordeaux. great deal for the Bordeaux-Merlot lovers (70% merlot).
France (Rhone-south)
2007 DOMAINE GRAND VENEUR LES CHAMPAUVINS CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES - $19.95 (Must Try!)
RP = 91 ; now - 2016
GPCi - For me, that's probably THE wine choice of this release. A classic vintage for a great blend from one of my favorite regions with mid-long term cellaring potential. Buy, buy... buy!
Spain - Penedes
2007 GRAMONA GESSAMÍ - $19.95
IWC = 91 ; 30% each of muscat d'Alexandria, muscat de Frontignan and sauvignon blanc, plus 10% gewurztraminer.
GPCi - that's a very interesting blend. seems like a nice-unusual after dinner drink. I would buy 1 bottle to try.
Spain
TORRES FLORALIS MOSCATEL ORO (500 mL) - $16.95
Wine Access = 90
GPCi - another interesting blend from Spain that's worth cheking out. I find it amazing how these not-so-known wines can be so rewarding especially for such price.
CODORNÍU PINOT NOIR ROSÉ BRUT CAVA (Traditional Method) - $16.95 (Must Try!)
GPCi - speaking of price... show me a 100% Pinot Noir Champaign that costs $17. Only Spain can produce Cava worth drinking at that price. I would definitely try it before the BBQ on Saturday.
Gremany
2007 STUDERT-PRÜM RIESLING SPÄTLESE - $24.95
WS=88 ; now to 2024
GPCi - I have/had STUDERT-PRÜM RIESLING SPÄTLESE from previous vintages and I found them very good and cellar worthy. I would not be too much alerted from the WS rate of 88 and buy a few bottles.
Friday, July 03, 2009
GPCi for July 4th 2009 release at the LCBO
Chile
2006 MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $43.95 (1500 mL)
JM=90 ; 2009 to 2016
GPCi - a great wine (in magnum package) for a large group of people who can appreciate excellent Cab Sauv. Very consistent producer. Buy 1-2 bottles
Australia
2006 CORIOLE VINEYARDS ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $24.95
IWC = 90
GPCi - Had this wine since the 2000 vintage. Very good even in lesser vintages and this seems to be no different. I would love to compare it with the Montes Alpha from Chile. Buy 2-4 bottles.
2006 ROCKBARE SHIRAZ - $19.95
JM=90 ; 2010 to 2018
GPCi - good Shiraz for a great value for the money with another 9 years of potential cellaring (good GPCi index). If you're in the habit of buying Shiraz for now and for later, buy 2-12 bottles.
Austria
2007 SCHMELZ FEDERSPIEL GRÜNER VELTLINER - $20.95 (MUST TRY!)
IWC = 91 ; Drink now to 2013
GPCi - I've tried the GRÜNER VELTLINER variety from Austria (are known to make great wines from this white grape) before and loved it. For this great review and for short-mid term cellaring, I would buy 2-4 bottles and drink them with a nice shrimp on a hot day...
France - Alsace
2007 LUCIEN ALBRECHT RÉSERVE GEWURZTRAMINER - $21.95
GPCi - GEWURZTRAMINER from Alsace has never failed before. Expect Rose-water, Leechi and lots of good stuff from this amazing variety.
France - Rhone
2007 GRANDES SERRES LES PORTES DU CASTELAS CÔTES DU RHÔNE BLANC - $14.95 (MUST TRY!)
GPCi - According to RP, 2007 was the best (he ranked it 98!) vintage since 1998 in that part of France. For this price what's the risk? I would expect a nice wine for the summer. Buy 2-12 bottles.
2007 CHÂTEAU DE LA TUILERIE SYRAH/GRENACHE - $15.95 (MUST TRY!)
GPCi - another offer from this excellent vintage for a more than tempting price. Buy, buy, buy!
France - Bordeaux
2005 CHÂTEAU L'ENCLOS BONIS - $26.95
GPCi - Merlot-dominated wine with Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. When it comes to 2005, I said it before, if the price is right (less than $30), I'd buy.
2005 CHÂTEAU MARJOSSE - $24.00
GPCi - a blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% combined Cabernet Franc and Malbec. if I need to choose between this one and the CHÂTEAU L'ENCLOS BONIS, I would go with the MARJOSSE just because I prefer the blend better.
Italy - Piedmont
2007 FONTANAFREDDA BRICCOTONDO BARBERA - $15.95 (MUST TRY!)
WS=90
GPCi - Barbera from a classic vintage in Piedmont (RP gave it 93!) for $16 !!!
If you like this variety, stock it up.
Italy - Tuscany
2005 TORRI RISERVA CHIANTI COLLI SENESI - $16.95
93% Sangiovese and 7% Canaiolo Nero
GPCi - same recommendation as the Barbera.
Spain - Ribera del Duero
2005 CELESTE CRIANZA - $19.95
WS=90 ; 2008 through 2015
GPCi - tried previous vintage and loved it. I found it to be a more modern style of Ribera del Duero. Excellent value for the mid term cellaring.
Spain - Navarra
1999 FORTIUS GRAN RESERVA - $23.95
GPCi - I love the wines from Navara (near Rioja) and for a 10 year old Gran Reserva wine for $24, that's a no brainer. Buy!!!
Spain - Rioja
2004 LAN RESERVA - $23.95
WS=90 ; Ranked #52 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2008 list.
GPCi - Had this one (and have a few in the cellar). If you haven't tried it before, buy it. You won't regret it. A typical Rioja. Expect the dark dry fruit, leather and all the good things a good Rioja brings along.
2006 MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $43.95 (1500 mL)
JM=90 ; 2009 to 2016
GPCi - a great wine (in magnum package) for a large group of people who can appreciate excellent Cab Sauv. Very consistent producer. Buy 1-2 bottles
Australia
2006 CORIOLE VINEYARDS ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $24.95
IWC = 90
GPCi - Had this wine since the 2000 vintage. Very good even in lesser vintages and this seems to be no different. I would love to compare it with the Montes Alpha from Chile. Buy 2-4 bottles.
2006 ROCKBARE SHIRAZ - $19.95
JM=90 ; 2010 to 2018
GPCi - good Shiraz for a great value for the money with another 9 years of potential cellaring (good GPCi index). If you're in the habit of buying Shiraz for now and for later, buy 2-12 bottles.
Austria
2007 SCHMELZ FEDERSPIEL GRÜNER VELTLINER - $20.95 (MUST TRY!)
IWC = 91 ; Drink now to 2013
GPCi - I've tried the GRÜNER VELTLINER variety from Austria (are known to make great wines from this white grape) before and loved it. For this great review and for short-mid term cellaring, I would buy 2-4 bottles and drink them with a nice shrimp on a hot day...
France - Alsace
2007 LUCIEN ALBRECHT RÉSERVE GEWURZTRAMINER - $21.95
GPCi - GEWURZTRAMINER from Alsace has never failed before. Expect Rose-water, Leechi and lots of good stuff from this amazing variety.
France - Rhone
2007 GRANDES SERRES LES PORTES DU CASTELAS CÔTES DU RHÔNE BLANC - $14.95 (MUST TRY!)
GPCi - According to RP, 2007 was the best (he ranked it 98!) vintage since 1998 in that part of France. For this price what's the risk? I would expect a nice wine for the summer. Buy 2-12 bottles.
2007 CHÂTEAU DE LA TUILERIE SYRAH/GRENACHE - $15.95 (MUST TRY!)
GPCi - another offer from this excellent vintage for a more than tempting price. Buy, buy, buy!
France - Bordeaux
2005 CHÂTEAU L'ENCLOS BONIS - $26.95
GPCi - Merlot-dominated wine with Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. When it comes to 2005, I said it before, if the price is right (less than $30), I'd buy.
2005 CHÂTEAU MARJOSSE - $24.00
GPCi - a blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% combined Cabernet Franc and Malbec. if I need to choose between this one and the CHÂTEAU L'ENCLOS BONIS, I would go with the MARJOSSE just because I prefer the blend better.
Italy - Piedmont
2007 FONTANAFREDDA BRICCOTONDO BARBERA - $15.95 (MUST TRY!)
WS=90
GPCi - Barbera from a classic vintage in Piedmont (RP gave it 93!) for $16 !!!
If you like this variety, stock it up.
Italy - Tuscany
2005 TORRI RISERVA CHIANTI COLLI SENESI - $16.95
93% Sangiovese and 7% Canaiolo Nero
GPCi - same recommendation as the Barbera.
Spain - Ribera del Duero
2005 CELESTE CRIANZA - $19.95
WS=90 ; 2008 through 2015
GPCi - tried previous vintage and loved it. I found it to be a more modern style of Ribera del Duero. Excellent value for the mid term cellaring.
Spain - Navarra
1999 FORTIUS GRAN RESERVA - $23.95
GPCi - I love the wines from Navara (near Rioja) and for a 10 year old Gran Reserva wine for $24, that's a no brainer. Buy!!!
Spain - Rioja
2004 LAN RESERVA - $23.95
WS=90 ; Ranked #52 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2008 list.
GPCi - Had this one (and have a few in the cellar). If you haven't tried it before, buy it. You won't regret it. A typical Rioja. Expect the dark dry fruit, leather and all the good things a good Rioja brings along.
Friday, June 12, 2009
GPCi for June 20th 2009 release at the LCBO
Chile
2005 CONCHA Y TORO TERRUNYO VINEYARD SELECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $29.95
www.wineandspiritsmagazine.com =93
GPCi - I tried this wine at the winery in Chile and it's a very impressive Cab Sauv. I have a bit of a challenge with the price - it's more of a good $20 Cab Sauv than $30.
2006 SANTA CAROLINA RESERVA DE FAMILIA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
GPCi - here is a good alternative for the Concha Y Toro above and for the right price. Santa Carolina is pretty consistent and this wine is no exception.
Australia
2004 JOHN'S BLEND INDIVIDUAL SELECTION NO. 31 CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $39.95
JH=94 ; until 2017.
GPCi - I had the 1999 with my dear friend John M. I know he wasn't as impressed with the 99' (I liked it), but I think we'll have to buy this one and re-judge when he comes back from Australia.
South Africa
2008 PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH - $15 (MUST TRY!)
GPCi - I usually don't buy wines from South Africa and now, after I met Dr. Daniel B., I have a good excuse - "they don't bring the good wines here..." he claims (and he knows his South African wines well). However, I have had this Syrah for several years now and I think it's a good value for your money. Lots of fruit in a nice package of a full body Syrah.
Austria
2007 SCHLOSS GOBELSBURG STEINSETZ GRÜNER VELTLINER - $23.95
RP=91 ; until 2016.
GPCi - GRÜNER VELTLINER is one of Austria's flag-ship varieties. This is a very reasonable price for such fine wine. Excellent for the hot days. I'd buy 3 bottles.
France (Burgundy)
2007 NADINE FERRAND MÂCON BLANC - $18.95
"From 46-year-old vines grown in the chalk and clay soils of the region".
GPCi - Macon Blanc - an interesting variety from Burgundy for $19 - worth checking. Serve chilled.
France (Bordeaux)
2005 CHÂTEAU FAIZEAU VIEILLES VIGNES - $30
RP=90 ; AC Montagne St-Émilion; 100% Merlot.
GPCi - I had the 1999 and the 2000. Very nice Merlot from the right bank. Worth the $30 hands down. I'd buy 2-4 for the cellar.
2005 CHÂTEAU GIGAULT CUVÉE VIVA - $30
WS=91 ; AC Premières Côtes de Blaye
GPCi - another wine from the right bank (north to St. Emilion). A very supportive review by WS for a wine that can be cellared for another 10 years.
France (Rhone South)
2007 DOMAINE GALÉVAN PAROLES DE FEMME CÔTES DU RHÔNE - $15 (MUST TRY!)
RP=88-90
GPCi - A very nice example of the region for the RIGHT PRICE!!! I'd buy 3-12 bottles and start the BBQ (weekdays as well as weekends). Buy, Buy, Buy!
Italy (Puglia)
2007 PASQUA LAPACCIO PRIMITIVO - $14.95
GPCi - Primitivo is on my radar for quite some time now... I am searching for something that can resemble its DNA relative the Zin (so far with no luck). For $15, there is no big risk trying this one and continue with my research... :)
Italy (Tuscany)
2004 PLACIDO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA - $19.95 (MUST TRY!)
GPCI - 2004 is one of the better vintages in the recent years in Tuscany. A Chianti Classico Riserva for $20 for this vintage is pretty unusual. If you like this type of wines (which I do and I know Cathy C does as well), it's an excellent opportunity to buy 2-4 bottles.
Spain
2005 SABOR REAL VIÑAS CENTENARIAS TEMPRANILLO - $19.95 (MUST TRY!)
JM=91 ; until 2015 ; 100-year-old vines, from the up-and-coming Toro region.
GPCi - What's not to like here. A great vintage, great review by JM, mid-term cellaring and all that for $20. BUY!
Argentina
Malbec worth trying:
There are a lot of very good Malbec to choose from. Below are a few that I have tried in the past and I think they all have great value for your money. Excellent variety for BBQ - stock 'em up!!!
2008 ALTOS LAS HORMIGAS MALBEC - $13.95
2008 CHAKANA MALBEC - $13.95
2006 KAIKEN ULTRA MALBEC - $19.95
2007 MICHEL TORINO ESTATE DON DAVID RESERVE MALBEC - $12.95
2006 TRAPICHE BROQUEL MALBEC - $15.95
2005 CONCHA Y TORO TERRUNYO VINEYARD SELECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $29.95
www.wineandspiritsmagazine.com =93
GPCi - I tried this wine at the winery in Chile and it's a very impressive Cab Sauv. I have a bit of a challenge with the price - it's more of a good $20 Cab Sauv than $30.
2006 SANTA CAROLINA RESERVA DE FAMILIA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
GPCi - here is a good alternative for the Concha Y Toro above and for the right price. Santa Carolina is pretty consistent and this wine is no exception.
Australia
2004 JOHN'S BLEND INDIVIDUAL SELECTION NO. 31 CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $39.95
JH=94 ; until 2017.
GPCi - I had the 1999 with my dear friend John M. I know he wasn't as impressed with the 99' (I liked it), but I think we'll have to buy this one and re-judge when he comes back from Australia.
South Africa
2008 PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH - $15 (MUST TRY!)
GPCi - I usually don't buy wines from South Africa and now, after I met Dr. Daniel B., I have a good excuse - "they don't bring the good wines here..." he claims (and he knows his South African wines well). However, I have had this Syrah for several years now and I think it's a good value for your money. Lots of fruit in a nice package of a full body Syrah.
Austria
2007 SCHLOSS GOBELSBURG STEINSETZ GRÜNER VELTLINER - $23.95
RP=91 ; until 2016.
GPCi - GRÜNER VELTLINER is one of Austria's flag-ship varieties. This is a very reasonable price for such fine wine. Excellent for the hot days. I'd buy 3 bottles.
France (Burgundy)
2007 NADINE FERRAND MÂCON BLANC - $18.95
"From 46-year-old vines grown in the chalk and clay soils of the region".
GPCi - Macon Blanc - an interesting variety from Burgundy for $19 - worth checking. Serve chilled.
France (Bordeaux)
2005 CHÂTEAU FAIZEAU VIEILLES VIGNES - $30
RP=90 ; AC Montagne St-Émilion; 100% Merlot.
GPCi - I had the 1999 and the 2000. Very nice Merlot from the right bank. Worth the $30 hands down. I'd buy 2-4 for the cellar.
2005 CHÂTEAU GIGAULT CUVÉE VIVA - $30
WS=91 ; AC Premières Côtes de Blaye
GPCi - another wine from the right bank (north to St. Emilion). A very supportive review by WS for a wine that can be cellared for another 10 years.
France (Rhone South)
2007 DOMAINE GALÉVAN PAROLES DE FEMME CÔTES DU RHÔNE - $15 (MUST TRY!)
RP=88-90
GPCi - A very nice example of the region for the RIGHT PRICE!!! I'd buy 3-12 bottles and start the BBQ (weekdays as well as weekends). Buy, Buy, Buy!
Italy (Puglia)
2007 PASQUA LAPACCIO PRIMITIVO - $14.95
GPCi - Primitivo is on my radar for quite some time now... I am searching for something that can resemble its DNA relative the Zin (so far with no luck). For $15, there is no big risk trying this one and continue with my research... :)
Italy (Tuscany)
2004 PLACIDO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA - $19.95 (MUST TRY!)
GPCI - 2004 is one of the better vintages in the recent years in Tuscany. A Chianti Classico Riserva for $20 for this vintage is pretty unusual. If you like this type of wines (which I do and I know Cathy C does as well), it's an excellent opportunity to buy 2-4 bottles.
Spain
2005 SABOR REAL VIÑAS CENTENARIAS TEMPRANILLO - $19.95 (MUST TRY!)
JM=91 ; until 2015 ; 100-year-old vines, from the up-and-coming Toro region.
GPCi - What's not to like here. A great vintage, great review by JM, mid-term cellaring and all that for $20. BUY!
Argentina
Malbec worth trying:
There are a lot of very good Malbec to choose from. Below are a few that I have tried in the past and I think they all have great value for your money. Excellent variety for BBQ - stock 'em up!!!
2008 ALTOS LAS HORMIGAS MALBEC - $13.95
2008 CHAKANA MALBEC - $13.95
2006 KAIKEN ULTRA MALBEC - $19.95
2007 MICHEL TORINO ESTATE DON DAVID RESERVE MALBEC - $12.95
2006 TRAPICHE BROQUEL MALBEC - $15.95
Monday, June 01, 2009
GPCi for June 6th 2009 release at the LCBO
Portugal
2007 MONTINHO SÃO MIGUEL - $13.95
GPCi - what got my attention is the blend of Aragónês and Trincadeira with Cabernet Sauvignon and for that price there in no risk. definitely something to try.
Italy (Tuscany)
2004 FATTORIA MONTE CHIANTI RUFINA RISERVA - $19.95
GPCi - Chianti Rufina Riserva from the excellent 2004 vintage and for only $20 - worth buying and either enjoy now with nice spagetti bolonez or cellar it for 2-4 years.
France (Bordeaux)
2005 CHÂTEAU DE LA DAUPHINE (Fronsac) - $34.95
RP=90 ; a 5,000-case blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc.
GPCi - Good review Parker. I had this wine from previous vintages and it never failed. Good value for a wine that can be cellared for 10-15 years.
2005 CHÂTEAU HAUT-BERNAT (Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion) - $34.95
GPCi - I had several wines from this satellite St. Emilion region in Bordeaux. Again, good value for your money. A very good example for right-bank 2005 Bordeaux. Buy and cellar.
Chile
2006 TABALÍ RESERVA ESPECIAL - $21.95 (MUST TRY !!!)
Decanter = 5/5
GPCi - great review by Decanter. Had this wine in Chile and also here. I'd buy 3-12 bottles. excellent value.
2007 MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $21.95 (MUST TRY)
GPCi - Another keeper. A consistent outstanding producer. This Cab Sauv is outstanding by any standard. good for mid term cellaring (~5 years). Buy 3-12 bottles.
2007 IN SITU GRAN RESERVA CARMENÈRE - $16.95
GPCi - A very good Carmenere for the right price... what's not to like here. To all Carmenere lovers out there... buy!
Argentina
2006 CATENA SYRAH - $19.95
GPCi - Speaking of quality consistency... Catena is definitely one of the top Argentina wine producers in this category. This time with Syrah. Expect lot of fruit and well balanced wine. For mid term cellaring (~5 years).
Where Money is No Object...
Italy (Piedmont)
2004 PIO CESARE BAROLO - $74.95
WS=94:
GPCi - Started to collect this wine since the 1998 vintage (when it wasn't that expensive). It's one of the best Barolos out there. If you're looking for a special present to someone who understands and appreciates wine, that is one good option.
France (Rhone - South)
2005 TARDIEU-LAURENT VIEILLES VIGNES CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE - $84.95
RP=96
GPCi - #2 gift for the ones who have everything in their cellar. One of the known domains in CdP. Outstanding review by Parker. Very expensive, but can be cellared for the next 23 years (!) - not a bad GPCi (~3.6) for such a wine...
Australia
2002 PETER LEHMANN MENTOR - $42.95
JM = 91 ; 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 10% Shiraz, and 8% Malbec
GPCi - I this one in my cellar - A wonderful wine! worth the money. If I need to spend ~$80 and to pick one wine from the "expensive three" here, I'll probably buy two bottles of the Mentor instead of one bottle of the CdP or the Barolo.
2007 MONTINHO SÃO MIGUEL - $13.95
GPCi - what got my attention is the blend of Aragónês and Trincadeira with Cabernet Sauvignon and for that price there in no risk. definitely something to try.
Italy (Tuscany)
2004 FATTORIA MONTE CHIANTI RUFINA RISERVA - $19.95
GPCi - Chianti Rufina Riserva from the excellent 2004 vintage and for only $20 - worth buying and either enjoy now with nice spagetti bolonez or cellar it for 2-4 years.
France (Bordeaux)
2005 CHÂTEAU DE LA DAUPHINE (Fronsac) - $34.95
RP=90 ; a 5,000-case blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc.
GPCi - Good review Parker. I had this wine from previous vintages and it never failed. Good value for a wine that can be cellared for 10-15 years.
2005 CHÂTEAU HAUT-BERNAT (Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion) - $34.95
GPCi - I had several wines from this satellite St. Emilion region in Bordeaux. Again, good value for your money. A very good example for right-bank 2005 Bordeaux. Buy and cellar.
Chile
2006 TABALÍ RESERVA ESPECIAL - $21.95 (MUST TRY !!!)
Decanter = 5/5
GPCi - great review by Decanter. Had this wine in Chile and also here. I'd buy 3-12 bottles. excellent value.
2007 MONTES ALPHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $21.95 (MUST TRY)
GPCi - Another keeper. A consistent outstanding producer. This Cab Sauv is outstanding by any standard. good for mid term cellaring (~5 years). Buy 3-12 bottles.
2007 IN SITU GRAN RESERVA CARMENÈRE - $16.95
GPCi - A very good Carmenere for the right price... what's not to like here. To all Carmenere lovers out there... buy!
Argentina
2006 CATENA SYRAH - $19.95
GPCi - Speaking of quality consistency... Catena is definitely one of the top Argentina wine producers in this category. This time with Syrah. Expect lot of fruit and well balanced wine. For mid term cellaring (~5 years).
Where Money is No Object...
Italy (Piedmont)
2004 PIO CESARE BAROLO - $74.95
WS=94:
GPCi - Started to collect this wine since the 1998 vintage (when it wasn't that expensive). It's one of the best Barolos out there. If you're looking for a special present to someone who understands and appreciates wine, that is one good option.
France (Rhone - South)
2005 TARDIEU-LAURENT VIEILLES VIGNES CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE - $84.95
RP=96
GPCi - #2 gift for the ones who have everything in their cellar. One of the known domains in CdP. Outstanding review by Parker. Very expensive, but can be cellared for the next 23 years (!) - not a bad GPCi (~3.6) for such a wine...
Australia
2002 PETER LEHMANN MENTOR - $42.95
JM = 91 ; 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 10% Shiraz, and 8% Malbec
GPCi - I this one in my cellar - A wonderful wine! worth the money. If I need to spend ~$80 and to pick one wine from the "expensive three" here, I'll probably buy two bottles of the Mentor instead of one bottle of the CdP or the Barolo.
Friday, May 15, 2009
GPCi for May 23rd 2009 release at the LCBO
Argentina
2006 ALTA VISTA GRANDE RESERVE TERROIR SELECTION MALBEC - $24.95 (Must try!)
JM=91 ; 2011-2021
GPCi - Malbec is definitely one of my favorite varieties. This one got an excellent review by Jay Miller and has a nice cellaring potential. 2006 was an outstanding vintage in Argentina (RP gave it 94!). I'd buy 3-6 bottles.
Chile
2007 CONCHA Y TORO MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA CHARDONNAY - $17.95
WS=91
GPCi - I had this in the past. it's a very good Chardonnay for a very competitive price. Great review by WS. A good way to stock up the "whites" for the summer.
2006 CONCHA Y TORO MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA MERLOT - $19.95
WS=90
GPCi - if you're looking for a very satisfying Merlot for up to $20, this should be on your list. From a very consistent producer. I tried older vintages of this wine at the winery in Chile and it is simply delivers!
2006 G7 RESERVA CARMENÈRE - $14.95 (Must Try!)
GPCi - G7 wines are a celebration of 7 generations of winemaking expertise. A very good Carmenere for the right price. Need I say more? BUY!!!
2005 WILLIAM COLE COLUMBINE RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $15.95
GPCi - I like the very distinct taste of Cab Sauv from Chile. Usually they are packed with black fruit flavors. For $16... stock up!
Australia
2006 EVANS & TATE CHARDONNAY - $19.95
JH=92
GPCi - I would buy this one and drink it side by side with the Chardonnay from Concha Y Toro. You'll see the difference in winemaking style although they are both "new world". Evans & Tate are known for their high-end wines but this one seems to deliver the quality for a reasonable price.
2007 FERNGROVE SHIRAZ - $16.95
JH=94
GPCi - from Frankland River, Western Australia. Once in a while I'd like to try Shiraz from the west part of Australia - they are different from the one of the south. Greta review by JH and excellent price! If you like Shiraz, try this one.
2006 HEWITSON MISS HARRY - $19.95
JM=90
47% Grenache, 47% Shiraz, and 6% Mourvedre.
GPCi - had this wine from the 2000 and the 2002 vintages. A very good GSM blend.
2007 TWO HANDS ANGELS SHARE SHIRAZ / 2007 TWO HANDS GNARLY DUDES SHIRAZ - $27.95
JM = 91 / 90 respectively
GPCi - Every year Two Hands delivers these two wines and they are both "in-your-face" Shiraz. There uniqueness is the complexity they deliver with these wines - very good. However, there are a few alternatives for less $.
New Zealand
2008 SPY VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC - $14.95
GPCi - I don't know this specific Sauv Blanc, but for $15 I would be tempted to try it. Never had a bad Sauv Blanc from NZ...
France (Bordeaux)
2005 CHÂTEAU L'ARGENTEYRE - $24.95 (Must Try!)
Decanter = 4/5 ; 2021-23
GPCi - 2005 wines from Bordeaux with such a strong and supportive review for $25 from the Medoc AND that can be cellared for the next 14 years - BUY!!!
Italy (Alto Adige)
2007 CANTINA TRAMIN GEWÜRZTRAMINER - $19.95
WS=90
GPCi - Gewurz is my favorite white grape. Never had Gewurz from that place before. Good review and reasonable price... you get the idea...
Italy (Sicily)
2007 DUCA DI CASTELMONTE TRIPUDIUM BIANCO - $18.95
blend of Grillo, Chardonnay and Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria).
GPCi - A unique blend like this gets my attention. I would chill it in the fridge and have it on the deck with shrimp BBQ.
Spain
2004 BARÓN DE LEY RESERVA - $21.95 (Must try!)
GPCi - I had this (and other vintages) a few times before. A typical Rioja. You can drink it today (decant it for 30 min) or cellar it for 5+ years. Expect leather, dried berries, hints of cedar and lots of enjoyment. I'd buy 6-12 bottles with no hesitation.
2001 RIOJA BORDÓN GRAN RESERVA - $26.95
GPCi - Another great vintage in the Rioja. A 8 years old wine for a reasonable price. Again expect a traditional Rioja. I'd buy 2-6 bottles.
2006 ALTA VISTA GRANDE RESERVE TERROIR SELECTION MALBEC - $24.95 (Must try!)
JM=91 ; 2011-2021
GPCi - Malbec is definitely one of my favorite varieties. This one got an excellent review by Jay Miller and has a nice cellaring potential. 2006 was an outstanding vintage in Argentina (RP gave it 94!). I'd buy 3-6 bottles.
Chile
2007 CONCHA Y TORO MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA CHARDONNAY - $17.95
WS=91
GPCi - I had this in the past. it's a very good Chardonnay for a very competitive price. Great review by WS. A good way to stock up the "whites" for the summer.
2006 CONCHA Y TORO MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA MERLOT - $19.95
WS=90
GPCi - if you're looking for a very satisfying Merlot for up to $20, this should be on your list. From a very consistent producer. I tried older vintages of this wine at the winery in Chile and it is simply delivers!
2006 G7 RESERVA CARMENÈRE - $14.95 (Must Try!)
GPCi - G7 wines are a celebration of 7 generations of winemaking expertise. A very good Carmenere for the right price. Need I say more? BUY!!!
2005 WILLIAM COLE COLUMBINE RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $15.95
GPCi - I like the very distinct taste of Cab Sauv from Chile. Usually they are packed with black fruit flavors. For $16... stock up!
Australia
2006 EVANS & TATE CHARDONNAY - $19.95
JH=92
GPCi - I would buy this one and drink it side by side with the Chardonnay from Concha Y Toro. You'll see the difference in winemaking style although they are both "new world". Evans & Tate are known for their high-end wines but this one seems to deliver the quality for a reasonable price.
2007 FERNGROVE SHIRAZ - $16.95
JH=94
GPCi - from Frankland River, Western Australia. Once in a while I'd like to try Shiraz from the west part of Australia - they are different from the one of the south. Greta review by JH and excellent price! If you like Shiraz, try this one.
2006 HEWITSON MISS HARRY - $19.95
JM=90
47% Grenache, 47% Shiraz, and 6% Mourvedre.
GPCi - had this wine from the 2000 and the 2002 vintages. A very good GSM blend.
2007 TWO HANDS ANGELS SHARE SHIRAZ / 2007 TWO HANDS GNARLY DUDES SHIRAZ - $27.95
JM = 91 / 90 respectively
GPCi - Every year Two Hands delivers these two wines and they are both "in-your-face" Shiraz. There uniqueness is the complexity they deliver with these wines - very good. However, there are a few alternatives for less $.
New Zealand
2008 SPY VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC - $14.95
GPCi - I don't know this specific Sauv Blanc, but for $15 I would be tempted to try it. Never had a bad Sauv Blanc from NZ...
France (Bordeaux)
2005 CHÂTEAU L'ARGENTEYRE - $24.95 (Must Try!)
Decanter = 4/5 ; 2021-23
GPCi - 2005 wines from Bordeaux with such a strong and supportive review for $25 from the Medoc AND that can be cellared for the next 14 years - BUY!!!
Italy (Alto Adige)
2007 CANTINA TRAMIN GEWÜRZTRAMINER - $19.95
WS=90
GPCi - Gewurz is my favorite white grape. Never had Gewurz from that place before. Good review and reasonable price... you get the idea...
Italy (Sicily)
2007 DUCA DI CASTELMONTE TRIPUDIUM BIANCO - $18.95
blend of Grillo, Chardonnay and Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria).
GPCi - A unique blend like this gets my attention. I would chill it in the fridge and have it on the deck with shrimp BBQ.
Spain
2004 BARÓN DE LEY RESERVA - $21.95 (Must try!)
GPCi - I had this (and other vintages) a few times before. A typical Rioja. You can drink it today (decant it for 30 min) or cellar it for 5+ years. Expect leather, dried berries, hints of cedar and lots of enjoyment. I'd buy 6-12 bottles with no hesitation.
2001 RIOJA BORDÓN GRAN RESERVA - $26.95
GPCi - Another great vintage in the Rioja. A 8 years old wine for a reasonable price. Again expect a traditional Rioja. I'd buy 2-6 bottles.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
GPCi for May 2nd 2009 release at the LCBO
US (California)
2005 EBERLE WINERY STEINBECK VINEYARD SYRAH - $28.95
GPCi - I had previous vintages from this winery and it was a good Syrah for the money. However, for almost $30 I'll skip this one and choose some of the alternatives from Tuscany for less.
Agrentina
2007 SANTA JULIA RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $13.95
GPCi - A good Cab Sauv for a good price. what's not to like. Expect lots of fruit and enjoy with a hefty lamb chop.
New Zealand
2007 TE AWA LEFT FIELD CHARDONNAY - $16.95
GPCi - you've probably heard me saying it before - I haven't had the opportunity to drink a bad white wine from New Zealand... and I don't think this one will be the first. A nice Chardonnay for $17 to enjoy with this odd weather, is on my to-try list.
France (Bordeaux)
2003 CHÂTEAU LE BOURDIEU - $19.95 (Must Try !!!)
GPCi - Any 2003 Bordeaux Medoc gets my attention and if it is in the $20 range, I will definitely try it. Drink now to 2012.
Spain
2006 MANGA DEL BRUJO - $17.95 (MUST TRY !!!)
RP=90+ until 2020
GPCi - the translation of this wine's name from Spanish is "The Sleeve of the Wizard". my #1 choice from this release as a "Must Try". It got good reviews. It can be cellared until 2020 and it's from Spain. Buy, buy, buy.
1999 MARQUÉS DE VALCARLOS GRAN RESERVA - $21.95 (MUST TRY)
GPCi - had this in the past. A typical, traditional Gran Reserva Rijoa for a more than reasonable price. that's another one for me to try. You won't find too many 10 years old wines for $22.
Italy (Tuscany)
2006 CENNATOIO CHIANTI CLASSICO - $24.95
WS=90
GPCi - Very supportive review from WS. A fair price for a good Chianti from an outstanding vintage (RP gave the vintage 96!). I would buy 2-3 bottles.
2006 ROCCA DELLE MACÌE CAMPOMACCIONE MORELLINO DI SCANSANO - $18.95
GPCi - 90% Sangiovese (=Morellino), 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot. Tony Aspler provided a good review for this full body wine. I would try one and decide whether to buy 3-6 bottles.
2005 FASSATI PASITEO VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO - $24.95
GPCi - since I visited Montepulciano, I fell in love with their wines. 2005 an excellent and consistent vintage. It's highly recommended by Decanter (4 out 5) with a drinking window of "Now to 2015". tempting...
2005 EBERLE WINERY STEINBECK VINEYARD SYRAH - $28.95
GPCi - I had previous vintages from this winery and it was a good Syrah for the money. However, for almost $30 I'll skip this one and choose some of the alternatives from Tuscany for less.
Agrentina
2007 SANTA JULIA RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $13.95
GPCi - A good Cab Sauv for a good price. what's not to like. Expect lots of fruit and enjoy with a hefty lamb chop.
New Zealand
2007 TE AWA LEFT FIELD CHARDONNAY - $16.95
GPCi - you've probably heard me saying it before - I haven't had the opportunity to drink a bad white wine from New Zealand... and I don't think this one will be the first. A nice Chardonnay for $17 to enjoy with this odd weather, is on my to-try list.
France (Bordeaux)
2003 CHÂTEAU LE BOURDIEU - $19.95 (Must Try !!!)
GPCi - Any 2003 Bordeaux Medoc gets my attention and if it is in the $20 range, I will definitely try it. Drink now to 2012.
Spain
2006 MANGA DEL BRUJO - $17.95 (MUST TRY !!!)
RP=90+ until 2020
GPCi - the translation of this wine's name from Spanish is "The Sleeve of the Wizard". my #1 choice from this release as a "Must Try". It got good reviews. It can be cellared until 2020 and it's from Spain. Buy, buy, buy.
1999 MARQUÉS DE VALCARLOS GRAN RESERVA - $21.95 (MUST TRY)
GPCi - had this in the past. A typical, traditional Gran Reserva Rijoa for a more than reasonable price. that's another one for me to try. You won't find too many 10 years old wines for $22.
Italy (Tuscany)
2006 CENNATOIO CHIANTI CLASSICO - $24.95
WS=90
GPCi - Very supportive review from WS. A fair price for a good Chianti from an outstanding vintage (RP gave the vintage 96!). I would buy 2-3 bottles.
2006 ROCCA DELLE MACÌE CAMPOMACCIONE MORELLINO DI SCANSANO - $18.95
GPCi - 90% Sangiovese (=Morellino), 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot. Tony Aspler provided a good review for this full body wine. I would try one and decide whether to buy 3-6 bottles.
2005 FASSATI PASITEO VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO - $24.95
GPCi - since I visited Montepulciano, I fell in love with their wines. 2005 an excellent and consistent vintage. It's highly recommended by Decanter (4 out 5) with a drinking window of "Now to 2015". tempting...
