tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87913950636252232142024-03-24T14:52:09.195-07:00Ask ChuckChuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comBlogger303125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-87259573576344749822024-03-24T14:47:00.000-07:002024-03-24T14:51:35.383-07:00This Winery Was Once An Aussie Church! <div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Seaview,</b> <b>McLaren Vale</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">First settled in 1836, shortly after the colony of South Australia was proclaimed, the sub-region of Seaview attracted many settlers. The church that was built in the 1860's played an important part in the lives of the settlers and their daily lives! </div><div style="text-align: left;">In addition to its religious responsibilities, the church served as a community centre for sports and dances as well as serving as the local school. It quickly became a landmark.</div><div style="text-align: left;">In 1965 owing to both progress and the increased ability to travel faster to other cities, it ceased being involved and eventually abandoned! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>New Horizons </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Enter Professor Tom Nelson who, in 1971, purchased the property for his wife's horses but later planted vines in 1972. The property was later purchased and invested in by the Gerrard Family in the 1980's. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Pam Dunsford who, in the early 1970's,, entered a non traditional role as a winemaker. Pam earned degrees in Bio-Chemistry and Horticulture and went on to obtain a Masters at U of Davis in California among many other notable achievements. Since then, Pam has become an icon of winemaking in Australia.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Due to her influence and also a new direction in viticulture, the region has become a leader in sustainable and creative wine practices and environmental issues. Pam retired from Chapel Hill in 2006 after 19 vintages and was the recipient of the Maurice O'Shea Award for her contributions to the Australian Wine Industry. One very amazing person who I understand, is continually venturing into interesting careers such as anthropology!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>McLaren Vale</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">McLaren Vale is located in the Province of South Australia and just south of the Adelaide. It sports a Mediterranean climate. It sports a large soil variety -----all soils are "free draining" meaning that they do not hold water for long periods thus making it an advantage to growing vines. Since there are a wide number of soil types ---all good for wine----a diverse group of viticultural species can be grown. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chapel Hill Winery</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Chapel Hill is a leader in sustainable agricultural (viticultural) farming which includes both modern and established methods of regenerative agriculture, organic viticulture, soil health, carbon sequestration, lowering green gas emissions, solar energy, recycling and waste reduction. While it specializes in Shiraz varieties, the winery produces a range of red and white grape varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Semillon. One of its most famous wines is Chapel Hill: The Parsons Shiraz. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chapel Hill The Parsons Shiraz 2022 McLaren Vale $19.95 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Dark red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Black Cherry/blackberry, plum notes, floral violet, vivid spices (Paprika, cloves, pepper, cassia), pepper, hint of chocolate, fig.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Full bodied, very dry, forward tannin, pleasant lengthy finish with anise on the after.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food: </b>Filet Mignon with mushroom/truffle sauce a must. Possible pork sirloin, roast turkey and venison.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>An exceptional wine at the price. Chapel Hill is now owned by the Woolworth company! My score was based on a price/quality ratio. making it an excellent purchase that will improve for at least the next four or five years if you can wait that long to drink it. <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face=""Matter SQ", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #262624; font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face=""Matter SQ", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #262624; font-size: 20px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-41221513294806922942024-02-09T09:07:00.000-08:002024-02-09T09:07:14.404-08:00This Wine Keeps Getting Better <p><b><br /></b></p><p><b> </b>Some wineries are not satisfied with just a great score. They have a need to do better! This is so for the wine below.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><b>OGGI Pinot Grigio 2023 Veneto $10:95 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour:</b> White, clear with very light yellow colour</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Citrus, passion fruit, lychee, honey with some orange blossom nuance</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Dry, light body, fresh, balanced sugar/acidity with citrus/almond finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Matches: </b>Aperitif, seafood, pork roast, cod cuts </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Second time that this wine was tasted. Last score was 90 points however the wine has undergone a process change with different grapes from other area of the property. The result is a difference from a very resourceful and well made wine to an excellent, exceptional wine of high quality. The resulting points are based on the quality per price ration. </div><p><b><br /></b></p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-13877621849587991252023-12-28T14:34:00.000-08:002024-01-20T06:32:01.725-08:00Potpurri Tasting Shows Produces Nice Wines<div style="text-align: left;"> I am always amazed by new "discoveries" when it comes to wine. When I think that nothing can impress me, I am wowed by the quality of an "new" wine that blows me away.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Lapilli Greco Di Tufo DOCG 2022 Campania, Italy $23.95 94/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour:</b> Deep straw, brilliant, clear</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Citrus lemon, Lychee fruit, Stone fruit, some vanilla nuances, mineral and sulfur!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Medium plus to Full body, nice nice acidity, pebbles, nuts, citrus/lemon and some fruit sweetness on the finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments</b>: Interesting wine from volcanic/clay soil at heights of 400 to 500 metres. Made from the Greco di Tufo grape which is a clone of the Greco Bianco. Some believe it is one and the same grape and refer to it as Greco Bianco. Tufo is also a village in Campania. <b>Tasted twice</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Pairings: </b>Fish, sea food, salads, aperitif, hors d'oeuvres. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Terres Secretes "Les Preludes' AOP Macon Rouge 2022 Burgundy $19.95 93/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Red, clear</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Ripe red fruit with some dark fruit evolvement, pomegranate, blossom flora notes, smoke, earth</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Medium body, soft tannin, dry, persistent length with noticeable but pleasant acidity </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments</b>: Formerly called "Cave de Prisse-Sologny-Verze". In 2007 changed its name to "Vignerons de Terres Secretes". The wine if made from Gamay grapes. Pleasant wine capable of developing over a three or four year period but fine now. Good choice for Beef or veal stew, cold cuts, burgers! A great go to wine for the price!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Fumu Rosso Terre Sicilliane IGT 2021 Sicily, Italy</b><b> $17.95 95/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour:</b> Ruby Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Black cherry, raspberry, bumble berry mix, smoke, earth floor, wood spice, pepper</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Full bodied, pleasant medium tannin, touch of fruit sweetness, very well balanced, lingering</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comment:</b> Exceptional wine for the price. A quality Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet/blend with loads of flavour and a promise of future development. Volcanic soil. Great beef, lamb, game wine! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tasted Twice</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">A great choice for roast beef dinner, steak, salmon </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Crux Corte 2022 Argentina Mendoza $17.95 96/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: Ruby</b> Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Black Fruit, pepper, anise, herbal spice, smoke, vanilla wood, spice mix</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Full bodied, velvet tannin, balanced, pleasant acidity, long and persistent finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Another dynamic wine that has an exceptional price/quality ration. As far as I can find out, the wine is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Syrah, 10% Merlot and 10% Tempranillo. The wine is well made with much manual rather than machine handling. This would suffice as a great game . wine as well as roast turkey, wild fowl, Ossobuco. Definitely my wine for a great price/quality ratio purchase! <b>Tasted Twice</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tordelcolle Rosso DOC Reserva 2018 Molise, Italy $14.95 93/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Red, clear </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Cherry blossom, floral notes, vanilla spice, plum, cherry, pomegranate,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Medium plus, pepper spice, well balanced with long finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>From south-central Italy. Price says it all. Nice price for every day wine. Pleasing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-78689715486676539062023-11-21T17:11:00.000-08:002023-11-21T17:11:34.710-08:00<div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Italian Trade Commission Tasting</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Roy Thompson Hall</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Almost a perfect venue for exhibiting and tasting wine is the fabulous Roy Thompson Hall. Just minutes from Union Station, anyone need not worry about the hazards of transport and/or parking attending events at this magnificent building.</div><div style="text-align: left;">As usual the exhibit hall was filled with exhibits and exhibitors---so much so that I had to very choosy about which exhibits to visit. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I decided to pick several at random and stick to them considering I had a time constraint as well a desire to not to overload my tasting buds.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b>Cascina Gilli</b></div><div><b>Castelnuovo D</b><b>on Bosco</b></div><div>Formerly called Castelnuovo d'Asti and now named in honour of Saint Don Bosco, a Catholic priest who cared for troubled youth and delinquents, is a commune within the region of Piedmont in Northern Italy.</div><div>Cascina Gilli is located not far from Turin (Torino) which is Piedmont's capital!</div><div>The winery began its life with the company started by Gionni Vergano in 1983 with the intent centred on developing the typical indigenous grapes of the area. </div><div>The vines are located in three vineyards on blue-grey clay like soil (white soil) within Asti (Montferato Astigiano Hills) province: Bricco Gilli, Cornareto, Schierano.</div><div>The vineyards exist from about 300 to 440 metres in height and facing South, South West and South East!</div><div>Gianni concentrated on a very rare, local indigenous grape variety called "Freisa ferma" with a first harvest in 1985 and later moved on to Malvasia. He now has widened his scope to various indigenous Italian varieties.</div><div>Present varieties are Freisa, Malvasia, Nebbiolo, Bonarda, Barbera., Notturno, Chardonnay </div><div><b>Wines Tasted </b></div><div><b>Cascina Gilli Chardonnay Piemonte DOC </b><b> 89/100 points</b></div><div><b>Colour: </b>White, straw, greenish tinge, clear, vibrant</div><div><b>Nose: </b>Citrus, apple, peach, mango, spice, floral notes of apple blossom<b> </b></div><div><b>Palate: </b>Medium body plus, touch of bee honey sweetness, refreshing acidity</div><div><b>Comments: </b>Nice aperitif wine, excellent with seafood, Sushi, cold cuts and smoked salmon</div><div>A nice classy white for slow sipping also.</div><div><b>Cascina Gilli Le More Barbara D'Asti DOCG 91/100 points</b></div><div><b>Colour: </b>Ruby Red, clear<b></b></div><div><b>Nose: </b>Blackberry wild cherry, blueberry, violet and grass nuances</div><div><b>Palate: </b>Medium plus body, integrated balance between sugar and acidity, Concentrated juicy flavour on finish /100</div><div><b>Comments: </b>Stainless steel aging promotes the fresh flavours of this wine. Can be used for fine beef, pork dishes but also great with roasted vegetables. </div><div><b>Cascina Gilli Arvele'Freisa d'Asti Superiore DOC 94/100 points</b></div><div><b>Colour: </b>Dark red, clear</div><div><b>Nose: </b>Ripe wild cherry, bumble berry, ripe raspberry/blackberry, coffee, smoke, old leaves, vanilla spice</div><div><b>Palate: </b>Medium to full bodied, dry, velvet smoothness, well balanced/integrated, nice length with refined acidity</div><div><b>Comments:</b> My favourite of the group! Very impressed with this wine. The length is very long and filled with class. I would imagine this wine with venison, lamb or pasta with lamb/beef dressing.</div><div>The grapes are quite ripe when picked and are carefully selected by hand from the very best vineyard area.</div><div><b>Cascina Gilli Malvasia di Castelnuovo Don Bosco DOC 88/100 points</b></div><div><b>Colour: </b>Ruby red, clear</div><div><b>Nose:</b> Fizz, Strawberry, raspberry, sweet melon, floral, spice</div><div><b>Palate</b>: Sweet, Light to Medium body, fresh acidity, very pleasant finish</div><div>Comments: Nice, aromatic dessert wine that does not over power with sweetness. Suggest chocolate mousse, ice cream and cream cakes. Good on its own , Low alcohol! </div><div><b>Gilli Vino Roseto Spumante</b> <b>Extra Dry 89/100 points </b></div><div><b>Colour: </b>Pink, clear </div><div><b>Nose:</b>: Strawberry, raspberry, honey, vegetal notes</div><div><b>Palate: </b>Medium Plus body, strong strawberry flavour, sweet with refreshing effervescence; Nice clean finish. </div><div><b>Comments</b>: Aperitif, oriental food such as Chinese, Thai as well as other spicy foods. hors d'oeuvres.</div><div>a pleasant patio wine! </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>General Comments About Cascina Gilli</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I tried just five Gilli wines while at the Italian Trade tasting and was impressed by the quality and what seemed to be the passion put into the making of these wines. Gianni Vergnano's son, winemaker Paolo who introduced the wines to me, seems to share the inventive passion and knowledge that impressed me. I think that this is a future winery to watch and will be interested in seeing/tasting the wines in the future! </div><div style="text-align: left;">As I mentioned before, at a large trade tasting one must be selective in how many booths are visited. The one above was certainly the best of show.</div><div style="text-align: left;">If one is interested in finding out more about these wines contact :the following:</div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;"><div style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Katherine Mellin, Principal & Certified Sommelier</b></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;">Apparition Wines & Spirits</span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;">630 Queen St E, Unit #411</span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;">Toronto, Ontario</span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;">M4M 1G3 </span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;">katherine@apparitionwines.com</span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;">+1 (416) 557 5145</span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;">Skype: katherinemellin</span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;">Instagram: </span><a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" href="https://www.instagram.com/apparitionwines/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">@apparitionwines</a><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;" /></b></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></b></div><p><b><br /></b></p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-14563757232279615552023-09-28T11:33:00.000-07:002023-09-28T11:33:55.180-07:00Exciting Wine At Recent Tasting<div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Winedom Never Has A Problem Impressing Me!</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">They just keep coming and coming! If I live to be over a hundred years (which I won't) in age, I will never taste all that there is in the world of wine. That is unless some idiot wanting to protect the public good manages to rekindle the "alcohol is bad for you" scenario. They've tried that once and look how that turned out! However that is another story for another blog. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I recently tasted a number of wines which blew my socks off. They were top notch but there are many great wines around. What got me was the price ---which nowadays is very important due to the high price of almost everything!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Frankland Estate Rocky Gully Shiraz 2019 Frankland River, Australia $17.95 93/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Vintages #33371</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Red, clear</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose:</b> Plum, cherry, currant, strawberry with pepper spice </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Dry<b>, </b>medium<b> </b>body, easy drinking, nice sugar/acid balance , smooth tannin, enjoyable lasting finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comment: </b>Definitely a wine for fowl such as turkey, duck or even wild game fowl. Think Christmas!</div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a family operation with owned by Barrie Smith and Jodi Cullen. Barrie has a great deal vineyard/farming/production experience who has great respect for the land and who minimizes any impact on the ecology of the land. Barrie and Jodi's children live and work on the estate also.. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Gran Passione Rosso 2022 IGT Merlot/Corvina Veneto, Italy $17.95 vintages: 94/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Vintages #410704</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Red-very clear</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Ripe red and dark fruit, vanilla wood, licorice, chocolate spice</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Full bodied, soft pleasant tannin, nice balance/structure, long finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comment:</b> Lovely wine! A blend of Corvina and Merlot, this wine is made from vines whose berries are left on the vine for an extended period of time. The result is a concentrated wine with a lovely softness and a resultant ten grams of sugar per litre on completion. The wine does have a beautiful sweet fruit on the palate which makes it very approachable. A great wine for those who love rabbit, grilled Portuguese chicken or some wild turkey! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Doudet-Naudin Pinot Noir 2020 Vin de France Burgundy/Languedoc $18.05 93/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO #31055</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour</b>: Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Ripe cherry, strawberry, raspberry</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Medium body, well balanced, approachable tannin, pleasant sweet fruit finish. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comment:</b> Excellent price/quality ration. Company is from Burgundy but this Vin de France wine developed on Languedoc soil. (Aude Valley). Company founded in Burgundy in 1849. Try with Chicken Stew, Porchetta, meat pie, Beef Stroganoff. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Les Cotilles Pinot Noir 2021 Vin de France Southern France $19.40 95/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO</b>.<b> #583088</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Black cherry, raspberry, blackberry, coffee, earth, smoke</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Full Bodied, smooth tannin structure, balanced, nice concentrated finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comment:</b> My score reasons the appeal of this particular wine to me. I loved the concentration, expressive fruit and very reasonable price. Some may argue the score but in this case, my taste buds stand by it! Have it with duck, wild turkey, game fowl. Made by Roux Pere et Fils! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Zensa Primitivo 2021 IGP Puglia (Salento), Italy $15.95 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO #31803</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Dark Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Ripe Dark cherry, blackberry, vanilla wood spice, nuances of chocolate, fig</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>full body, soft tannin, integrated and balanced, wild berry flavours and pleasant sweet finish. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Wine has concentrated flavours of sweet fruit yet can be described as dry even with 14 grams of sugar per litre. It is a delicious wine that can be used as a "way to end the day" wine relaxing on an easy chair or as a food wine paired with porcini pasta, lamb, beef or beef stew. Wine is organic.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Zensa Nero d'Avola Appassimento 2021 DOC Sicily, Italy $15.95 94/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO #31801</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b> Dark red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose:</b> Dark fruit, smoke, forest floor, earthy chocolate, blueberry, blackberry, vanilla wood, spice</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate; </b>Full bodied, powerful, wild berry flavours, dark chocolate and sweet nuances on the finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Expressive and well made! Owned by Orion Wines, this company carries a large number of brands which are reasonably priced and high in quality. Like its predecessor, Zensa Nero d'Avola is an organic certified wine. In fact, the name Zensa comes from the Italian "Sensa" meaning "without"! This basically means that no artificial methods and chemicals are used on the vines or grapes and the wine made is totally organic. The grapes are partially dehydrated before fermentation to increase the concentration and flavour. This wine would be excellent with beef or lamb stew, roast beef, and grilled steak. One can also have it alone or while puffing on a cigar!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau L'Esparrou Prestige 2021 AOP Cotes de Roussillon, France $17.95 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Vintages# 31691 </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Dark Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Dark and red fruit, coffee, vanilla, pepper spice, earth </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Full Body, sweet mouth feel, red fruit, balanced with a pleasant spice finish </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comment: </b>A very nice priced wine with generous fruit that would complement the Thanksgiving or Christmas Turkey or Ham!<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-76431226745368293912023-07-24T19:23:00.004-07:002023-07-24T19:23:46.981-07:00<div style="text-align: left;"> Should I OR Should I Not? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Aging Wine</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Believe it or not, there has been a controversy about letting wine age. Many believe that aside from the major (and very expensive) domains most wines do not or should not be aged any further. I had one friend whose opinion I respected loved his wine "young"--- including major wine chateaux! He basically believed in drinking wine that had all the vitality and power of "youth". One cannot argue with personal taste and in fact, many wines are consumed well after their prime! </div><div style="text-align: left;">However, my "take" on this subject is that wine----especially a powerhouse, full of tannin and fruit among many descriptors should be enjoyed at various stages of existence. Many a youthful wine can be quite hard on the palate with time to soften. The other point is that many a wine does take on different evolutions as it develops through time. A Latour can be even harsh and tough in its youth only to mold with one's tongue---wrapping itself like velvet as it ages.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Certain foods also have an amenity for a particular style of grape. Turkey or Duck but would taste superb with a young pinot noir but would go better with an older Bordeaux.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I have aged a number of "minor" wines and found them, while great when young, to develop nicely as they age. This does not mean that every wine needs aging or that aged wine is better. It just means that for those who want to see how some wine develop, putting a bottle or two away may reek surprises.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Raiding My Cellar </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Cellar contains a host of red and white wines that go as far back as the 1960's and 1970's. For example, My German wines go back to 1971 while my Burgundies go back to 1969. Every so often I raid my Bordeaux section. Last night was such an event. I chose a 1989 Chateau Latour Martillac.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Latour-Martillac: History </b> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Anyone who knows me realizes that tasting is just one aspect of wine that I enjoy. I love the science behind wine. History is what attracted me to it! Geography is what solidified it and of course People is what rounded it out. Chateau Latour Martillac is steeped in history---going back to the 12 Century as a small fortress. The fortress was destroyed in the French Revolution but left a Tower from which the chateau gets its name. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Charles the Second of Montesquieu acquired the land, located just five kilometres from the town of Leognan, via his marriage in 1715. He later added the land to his estate called Chateau de la Brede.</div><div style="text-align: left;">The land was later acquired by lawyer Monsieur Charropin in 1853. Merchant Edouard Kressman began distribution of the wine in 1871 and took charge of the vines by 1884. </div><div style="text-align: left;">The estate came under the ownership of a Pierre Langlois until 1929 when Alfred Kressman, son of Edouard, purchased the chateau and later gave it the name of Chateau Latour-Martillac! The property has been in Kressman hands ever since.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Vineyards </b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> Many vines were planted by the senior Kressman in and around 1884. Through various purchases the vineyards were extended to now hold about 42 hectares which comes out as 100 acres. The breakdown is about 80% red to 20% white grapes. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Latour-Martillac 1989 Pessac-Leognan (Graves) 93.5/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Grape Varieties: </b>Cabernet Sauvignon 60%, Merlot 35%, Petit Verdot 5%</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour</b>: Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Floral, Tobacco, Red Fruit, Earth, Mushroom, Hint of Chocolate, </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Medium Body, Dry, Berry Fruit, Smooth finish, Pleasant</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>Roast Turkey, Roast Beef, Pork Loin, Duck</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Classified in the 1953 Graves Classification. High reputation for aging ability and from an area that has produced some highly reputed wines such as Chateau Haut Brion and Chateau Pape Clement. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>When To Open That Special Bottle </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I guess that this whole exercise has been to discuss the fact that ageing a wine to see how it evolves is not a bad thing. In the ideal world, one can obtain at least six bottles of a certain bottle of wine and have one every so often. In that case, tasting the wine initially as a young interest item is not a bat idea. </div><div style="text-align: left;">However, if only one bottle is available and the obtaining of a second one is out of the question, one is left with the temptation to either drink the wine to enjoy it as a young wine or give it time to further develop. What does one do. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I was given a superb Bodegas Benegas Lynch 2019 which probably is drinking well now but I know that it will develop well over the next two years. Unfortunately there, is no other available to experiment with a la ageing! Hmmm! I will keep you posted. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> . </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><p><br /></p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-70404967769081706572023-07-12T16:09:00.006-07:002023-07-13T05:06:37.463-07:00Good Wine Just Keeps on Coming<div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Tuscany, Spain, Chile, Argentina Quality Coming Up!</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It is getting harder and harder to affix a mark on any wine these days since the quality of wine passing this writer seems to be getting increasingly better. The difference between wine quality is becoming so nebulous-----especially when wine makers are becoming so skilled at their trade and----we can't leave out technology and passion. It is becoming harder to judge.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Castello del Trebbio Chianti Superiore 2021 DOCG, Tuscany 95/100 $18.95</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Red Fruit (Cherry, Currants, Raspberry), floral blossom notes, vanilla spice, anise</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Medium body, very elegant, forward tannin with evolving anise finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>A superior product from a small (46 Hectare) winery. I was puzzled at the style of oak used and for a while suspected two types of oak but on researching the product I found that my quandary was that Slovenian Oak was used in conjunction with stainless steel (six months each) after the initial fermentation in stainless steel tanks using indigenous (wild) yeasts. Vineyard practices natural, organic, biodynamic agriculture. Owners Anna Baj Macario/Sefano Casadei are in a partnership with Cline in California. Wine is nicely integrated. Excellent purchase. <b> </b>13 % alcohol</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Grapes: </b>Sangiovese (85%), Colorino (10%) and Ciliegiolo (5%)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing:</b> Risotto, Roasts, Antipasti, Aged Hard Cheese.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Magus Crianza 2020 "6 Meses", Extremadura Ribera del Guadiana 93/100** $14.95</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Dark Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Dark Fruit (ripe blackberry, black cherry, mulberry), bubble gum, strawberry jam, pepper spice</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Medium to full body, dry, accessible tannin, licorice and pleasant finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comment</b>: A good wine for all purpose meal. The 6 Meses means lightly passed over 6 month old barrels ( French and American Oak) which produces wine that can be consumed younger and casually. 14 % alcohol.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Grapes: </b>100% Tempranillo</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>cold cuts, beef, lamb and pasta </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>**:</b> Rating based on price and easy accessibility of wine. Great unpretentious addition for everyday! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Upcoming: Benegas Lynch and Corazon del Indio!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-40688784830146851542023-07-06T14:35:00.007-07:002023-07-10T16:02:43.108-07:00Part Two: Wineries To Watch For In 2023 <div style="text-align: left;"> <span style="font-size: medium;">Part Two of my wineries to watch for list includes more wineries from Argentina, Brazil, Romania and Portugal with additional wineries from the United States!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Virginia, USA</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains are so beautiful that I had to include more than one picture to capture the sheer loveliness of this region. Two wineries that impressed me so very much are Ankida Ridge and historic Barboursville. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhT6ZltzjFwQZoecNPdP4n4y9G8nuz8IrGYaZcdPvqwiAfZ8BCWGadx4spIWbZ8uBhaTEeZra5V5VjiCiPJoZmWgL6lpN0fwWevEFXF4tqnPNXl9muMNVDHzqWmxTl2Xz-ksdn4rFgB4Nd6EuMZ8mbAgRQGfGTovqozMMpLNeq0RNkcBmhC4EyIDQoYrI7s" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1300" data-original-width="1920" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhT6ZltzjFwQZoecNPdP4n4y9G8nuz8IrGYaZcdPvqwiAfZ8BCWGadx4spIWbZ8uBhaTEeZra5V5VjiCiPJoZmWgL6lpN0fwWevEFXF4tqnPNXl9muMNVDHzqWmxTl2Xz-ksdn4rFgB4Nd6EuMZ8mbAgRQGfGTovqozMMpLNeq0RNkcBmhC4EyIDQoYrI7s" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBszCfle78TSFxfB94oI8qWh9R-JFpesyAtiJNpVr54tbspkdMnSIypFP7jUCSI8K4Kiqu7IYAk54M0EbRVkvthnDxxdHmG9da-jcPzJku64K3wIAtbAQnLrO51zlUcaZ4gryhsDyzQl13D2q2Kdk2m29yT4NCLb2jSlXbB-dILtesA_xcidPDM9en6Vu8" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBszCfle78TSFxfB94oI8qWh9R-JFpesyAtiJNpVr54tbspkdMnSIypFP7jUCSI8K4Kiqu7IYAk54M0EbRVkvthnDxxdHmG9da-jcPzJku64K3wIAtbAQnLrO51zlUcaZ4gryhsDyzQl13D2q2Kdk2m29yT4NCLb2jSlXbB-dILtesA_xcidPDM9en6Vu8" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8Uj-z11_4qpMXrd8zXMQbnpTgAjz9_B2uJZXHsQ34kUhRr5FlxV-Ul-L4KiUeA0Q63H1X8kDKCkzgVHSJMvumHbGqSaa32KYsRz7oWrJHSyBgyYzGo8VGjFghVhTAokDahzQX8V4pdj6q6DAAXaWro3iVlVpVhbSEYG2q7IMrc316fUbJ5UDyrHHqEaJC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="697" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8Uj-z11_4qpMXrd8zXMQbnpTgAjz9_B2uJZXHsQ34kUhRr5FlxV-Ul-L4KiUeA0Q63H1X8kDKCkzgVHSJMvumHbGqSaa32KYsRz7oWrJHSyBgyYzGo8VGjFghVhTAokDahzQX8V4pdj6q6DAAXaWro3iVlVpVhbSEYG2q7IMrc316fUbJ5UDyrHHqEaJC" width="320" /></a></div> <b>Christine Wells Vrooman with Winemaker Son, Nathan</b><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Ankida Ridge Vineyards and Winery (Amherst County, Blue Ridge Mountains Va.) </span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><span style="font-size: medium;">The caption on its home page reads "where Heaven and Earth join" and when I pass on, Ankida Ridge located on Chestnut Ridge, Virginia, would be my choice of Heaven! Purchased in 1999 by Dennis and Christine Vrooman, this stunning property with a backdrop that requires </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: medium;">three pictures to do it justice, is only equaled by its great wine and altitude (1800 feet)! Their son Nathan is the talented winemaker! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The superb six acre vineyard produces some of the finest Pinots that I have ever tasted. Chardonnay, Gamay are also grown on the property. Ankida produces a great "Pinot Noir Vintage Reserve", "Blanc de Noir" (Pinot Noir) and "Blanc de Blanc" (Chardonnay) sparkling wine as well! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Ankida wine is made by natural methods with the least amount of intervention. It is no surprise that Ankida Ridge Wine expresses the best that this lovey terroir has to offer. My only complaint is that this wine is not available in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Barboursville (Winery Road, Barboursville, Virginia)</b> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3MI2tKHb5_4ks0VRBWMMkOurGY191BnPMpaOjMuBaZ6ywvoGdMkw-skIamgIBWU_J4MQLBlwZgLIiDiNN1UzfSVRODfFTf05-t879Pf4qzLlCsbdtQ_R3U-pvQiLPk6-uB85MuEcLzMJ_Z04VibzHVX0-TrSx-Qg6jangiY4BjjAW1DmANF4PfxOYvP0n" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1280" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3MI2tKHb5_4ks0VRBWMMkOurGY191BnPMpaOjMuBaZ6ywvoGdMkw-skIamgIBWU_J4MQLBlwZgLIiDiNN1UzfSVRODfFTf05-t879Pf4qzLlCsbdtQ_R3U-pvQiLPk6-uB85MuEcLzMJ_Z04VibzHVX0-TrSx-Qg6jangiY4BjjAW1DmANF4PfxOYvP0n" width="320" /></a></div> <b>Barboursville Winemaker Luis Paschina</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgc-FOY0iNxfDXRVNwAFpX--RAFrNWKjaP93U-vt5QpI6K_yzqq94vQNSOV4C1Heho-Aud_CIxrXlUX7RYSuecEGjRc7IbQaFYxFbr_PFccCLilAAZ8EkPYlZGHMlJqlRfMzKsAWka3Wx3ULSvKJ1q2YoJRFS6C94MD31mMqqnWVzRPIIAMkiEpHN46g5ry" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="910" data-original-width="1920" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgc-FOY0iNxfDXRVNwAFpX--RAFrNWKjaP93U-vt5QpI6K_yzqq94vQNSOV4C1Heho-Aud_CIxrXlUX7RYSuecEGjRc7IbQaFYxFbr_PFccCLilAAZ8EkPYlZGHMlJqlRfMzKsAWka3Wx3ULSvKJ1q2YoJRFS6C94MD31mMqqnWVzRPIIAMkiEpHN46g5ry" width="320" /></a></div> <b>Barboursville Winery</b><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">Politician James Barbour (1775-1842) held many posts within the young United States including that of Virginia Governor. He encouraged and over saw the development of sustainable agriculture on the property. His friend, Thomas Jefferson, designed him a mansion which was built in 1814. The mansion tragically burned down on Christmas Day 1864 but its ruins, along with the Barbour family cemetery, remains on the winery property.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">In 1976, Italian Gianni Zonin of Veneto winery fame, purchased the property with the intent of founding a vineyard, The rest is history with Barboursville being recognized as an outstanding winery making fine wine such as a Bordeaux style(Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot), Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Barbara, Viognier, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Moscato Ottonel and Vidal. Winemaker Luis Paschina has been with the winery since 1990 and continues to produce superb wine that reflects the Zonin commitment to </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">excellence<b>!</b></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Bodegas </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Argentina </b></span></span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Bodegas Benegas (Mendoza)</b></span></span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGIlmwT08nf9AmeUpUvDLpY3SR4iSGN6Hca9WhIIjy84YvQqlUueDSWCCXE2w1wgSDFv-VYGczsdplqN3pnjrt7o5lqtuWpyiNWh-ZI6T04Usmed1Qyi6YeQ8jWURC9cV5mFxbMkzxh9isMBDpK6SJvjgdGWY6Db7yLjImsi5mdq1TLa6DaZi-20B7kBtW" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="1024" height="115" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGIlmwT08nf9AmeUpUvDLpY3SR4iSGN6Hca9WhIIjy84YvQqlUueDSWCCXE2w1wgSDFv-VYGczsdplqN3pnjrt7o5lqtuWpyiNWh-ZI6T04Usmed1Qyi6YeQ8jWURC9cV5mFxbMkzxh9isMBDpK6SJvjgdGWY6Db7yLjImsi5mdq1TLa6DaZi-20B7kBtW" width="320" /></a></div> <b>Bodegas Benegas<br /></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgY_9cx_FQXEFj11131pYVOiEPzOk7AW2XvRQiaA07CtGFKBbk_3IY3yQiFxqY_dt-KKysKZjSGYBn_3xpjA0jXaryY2SW-WKUhgy8E-hXxz0_hFuBYU7xpY6szHPY_WBkEprX2JooBPT6O1LhGlpSzGS_oz3NVzOl7rl9BC39TTqRJ8qRA_RDUJ8PnsoyY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgY_9cx_FQXEFj11131pYVOiEPzOk7AW2XvRQiaA07CtGFKBbk_3IY3yQiFxqY_dt-KKysKZjSGYBn_3xpjA0jXaryY2SW-WKUhgy8E-hXxz0_hFuBYU7xpY6szHPY_WBkEprX2JooBPT6O1LhGlpSzGS_oz3NVzOl7rl9BC39TTqRJ8qRA_RDUJ8PnsoyY" width="320" /></a></div> <b>Picking The Grapes<br /></b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Outstanding quality of this winery goes back over 100 years and has its original cellars from 1901! The history of the Benegas family goes far further and included the signing of an 1820 independence peace treaty at its farm as well as having many of the family members involved in important political posts. Family patriarch Don Tiburico scoured wine regions for vine cuttings---giving many to any who wanted to grow vines. He founded El Trapiche winery in 1883 but sold it in 1970. </span></span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Frederico Benegas Lynch was born in 1951 and after spending a number of years working in the El Trapiche vineyards and tasting wines with his father, came under the influence Trapiche winemaker Angel Mendoza. He then decided to make wines under the Benegas name.</span></span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">He repurchased the family vineyard 'Finca Libertad", purchased a 19th century winery and added the Benegas name over all! </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Top wine consultant Michel Rolland and famed Napa winemaker Paul Hobbs were contracted. </span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">He
enlisted the assistance of top French wine consultant Michel Rolland and Napa
winemaker Paul Hobbs. The grapes are carefully cultivated and selected during
Harvest.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Fermentation and Maceration are
strictly controlled!</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">The wines from Benegas vineyards, Finca Libertad and Finca Incerrada, are exceptional and highly rated by wine critics and in my opinion can only become highly in demand.</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">With vine ages from 70 to 128 years and from heights of 850 to 2800 metres the quality can only be very high. Presently the Malbec Single Vineyard is available in Ontario.</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><b>Portugal (Estremoz, </b><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Alentejo Wine Region)</b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><b>Howard's Folly </b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgNKjC8492XS80W-EGX4TkBQHKf3f_bRPLmSU2fn1HBsz7_OFfYHU_6dSl5o6xbb5_mAdhA_6NF6zoYeDc6qwcOhngyzlqa4YvoWPQq5D7qPDdfMo_Z9mgSvlF5JwJpHwguODjeto6zjtw5mn5O7lf3IixQ9KPgHRtilOlGLbu6VqhIasnLC2odHH0TClDa" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="851" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgNKjC8492XS80W-EGX4TkBQHKf3f_bRPLmSU2fn1HBsz7_OFfYHU_6dSl5o6xbb5_mAdhA_6NF6zoYeDc6qwcOhngyzlqa4YvoWPQq5D7qPDdfMo_Z9mgSvlF5JwJpHwguODjeto6zjtw5mn5O7lf3IixQ9KPgHRtilOlGLbu6VqhIasnLC2odHH0TClDa" width="160" /></a></div> <b>David Baverstock Winemaker </b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj8_UP4PL51f4h6Y4RcROQiEWwQTsAsnXkRFQwQvjFt6O8516jBh9zcMCyAvt9Kh_T9_sHoWHlkGwwWuO12lhy7zyzSKNxBGqDOPWkWhIiF9YoH1R3hKKsgedzA8qSqxncIBd3Al3IlnFjfVZQlA5Myvnmssslp7NhuU6qA3vSLolFC-i49LBLA0cq_XXsz" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="847" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj8_UP4PL51f4h6Y4RcROQiEWwQTsAsnXkRFQwQvjFt6O8516jBh9zcMCyAvt9Kh_T9_sHoWHlkGwwWuO12lhy7zyzSKNxBGqDOPWkWhIiF9YoH1R3hKKsgedzA8qSqxncIBd3Al3IlnFjfVZQlA5Myvnmssslp7NhuU6qA3vSLolFC-i49LBLA0cq_XXsz" width="159" /></a></div> Pedro Furriel Winemaker</b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">A superb region for wine is the Alentejo Region of Portugal. Howard's Folly is new on the scene but has an outstanding winemaker who has carved a name for himself worldwide! Businessman Howard Bilton and esteemed winemaker David Baverstock, Australian who is noted for his avant-garde wines and many accolades from such people as the President of Portugal founded the above winery in 2002.</div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">Bilton has a love for Portugal and its wine----especially the Alentejo Region. He became a driving force with the idea of creating a winery that exhibited not only the love of Alentejo wine but also as a contributor to the Art Community. Along with vineyard manager, Christina Francisquinho and winemaker Pedro Furriel, they are producing first rate wine that are being sought for all over the globe!</div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">While I have not tasted Howard's Folly wine yet, top critics give the varietal and blended wines top marks. The likes of Jancis Robinson and Robert Parker have consistently give excellent scores to Folly wine! </div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><b>Brazil </b><br /><b>Vincola Suzin </b><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;">( Sao Jaoquim, Santa Catarina)</b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3cgXdFyNO-BrmO3g9TnNen-ZOPvSMWJF22Zddwx7iG5OQAeHq8gwYUmJQLEmwKTWQBntt6MGK_Hd7sac8YYyV6YMxQvCFRzYoGcZC8HVm7Q85VOTPlxS34K4hnvfkf8S8NBaFYz66x1ypeDbzwRa67-btWvX2CKnyZeDGquIOGgOVfdXuHcKdnIEL3ChH" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3cgXdFyNO-BrmO3g9TnNen-ZOPvSMWJF22Zddwx7iG5OQAeHq8gwYUmJQLEmwKTWQBntt6MGK_Hd7sac8YYyV6YMxQvCFRzYoGcZC8HVm7Q85VOTPlxS34K4hnvfkf8S8NBaFYz66x1ypeDbzwRa67-btWvX2CKnyZeDGquIOGgOVfdXuHcKdnIEL3ChH" width="240" /></a></div><b> Everson Suzin Winemaker/Owner</b></span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">High up (1200 metres) in the little village, temperatures reach a daytime high of 28 degrees centigrade but fall to a low of 5 degrees during the night. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Montepulciano, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Rebo, Pinto Noir and Sauvignon Blanc are grown in small batches thus enabling differentiated treatment of each variety and a concentration on quality products. Using the latest ecological techniques eliminates the use of herbicides and vineyard defensives. The result is exceptional wine. My favourite has always been Suzin Pinot Noir which is cultivated with tender loving hands. </span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">Suzin products are not available in Canada at the moment.</div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><b>Romania</b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">Romania has come out of its "wine shell" and is making first rate wine capable of competing with the world's best. A new "guard" has taken over with the latest in vineyard management and wine making. Add to that Romania's deep historical significance in and superb scenery and you have a top winner. Top sommeliers like Zoltan Szabo and Ioana Madalina Danila assist up and coming winemakers in producing great wine! </div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><b>Crama Histria (Dobrogea)</b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGfd1hqacrAnMP-daJfP47NiABOAg6Nflz_7NDrDJIM9DI4YmjnKxDeZJq-2Rvy7jPw_Hda6c1MnzRWs-ByYbQ9sMiHYSx_OFvapYVHt_Z1QQTk52KtsZ7OWXased2ULXd4P9UmLVZRiiz9BNglqWS_7SM1dZhxs4VsaNI0nyKMterl0PI-o1S7I7U8K_q" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1777" data-original-width="1214" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGfd1hqacrAnMP-daJfP47NiABOAg6Nflz_7NDrDJIM9DI4YmjnKxDeZJq-2Rvy7jPw_Hda6c1MnzRWs-ByYbQ9sMiHYSx_OFvapYVHt_Z1QQTk52KtsZ7OWXased2ULXd4P9UmLVZRiiz9BNglqWS_7SM1dZhxs4VsaNI0nyKMterl0PI-o1S7I7U8K_q" width="164" /></a></div><b> Paul Fulea Winemaker/Owner</b></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">Crema Histria enjoys sunny days, rich terroir and healing breezes all of which grow healthy grapes which make great wine. However, this is just part of the story since the making of fine wine depends also on the skill of the winemaker.</div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">Paul Fulea produced his first wine in 2015 on land that was already under vine since 1976 but needed his alteration. He renamed his winery "Crama Histria" which now covers some 200 hectares.</div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">The winery produces wine from both international and indigenous grapes such as the (White) Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Muscat, Ottonel, Traminer, Fateaca Regela and (Red) Fateasca Neagra, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.</div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">His red 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon "Nikolaos" has already won international acclaim with a score of 94/100 points at the Decanter World Wine Awards in 2021! </div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">(Agent is Maison Nobleza in Montreal) </div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-80710612619142931392023-06-04T11:48:00.012-07:002023-06-04T11:54:55.585-07:00Wineris To Watch For In 2023<div style="text-align: left;"> <span style="font-size: medium;">During the last several years I've tasted a large number of exceptional wines. Here are the ones that have consistently pleased me and continue to increase in esteem! Sadly, a number will not be easily accessible to Ontario consumers. I have indicated possible distributors such as the SAQ ( <span style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">Société des alcools du Québec)</span> or winery direct! Countries are in alphabetical order.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Argentina</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Bodega Weinert (Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrfkW9N3F_Uj42jLNn1IrmrOdnGg7b2Or7wh0LlF8oW45EvAOPtsabojiFkPgJAsvOZrAwjABAh1vuHxRvKyL3TyFpAm_7UHWzA4XzKOarB1G7skMVALwOg26aWQTjMDr1YCD5NZ0XSZLOMGM-ljG0BCagnhhXi13egKTYWKu3xXis8m1kD9Xo6eVynQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="853" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrfkW9N3F_Uj42jLNn1IrmrOdnGg7b2Or7wh0LlF8oW45EvAOPtsabojiFkPgJAsvOZrAwjABAh1vuHxRvKyL3TyFpAm_7UHWzA4XzKOarB1G7skMVALwOg26aWQTjMDr1YCD5NZ0XSZLOMGM-ljG0BCagnhhXi13egKTYWKu3xXis8m1kD9Xo6eVynQ" width="160" /></a></div> Iduna Weinert</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">I first came upon Bodega Weinert in 1978 and immediately fell in love with the wine that showed amazing complexity and quality. Through the years the wine has never failed to impress me whether it it the Carrascal brand, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon or Bordeaux Blend. Iduna Weinert is the very capable (and lovely) owner. Winemaker Hubert Weber continues to make superb, age worthy wine, time and again. (Case For Wine Agency, Pickering, Ontario. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Brazil</b> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Pizzato Vincola (Vale dos Vinhedos, Bento Goncalves)</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Gregarious and passionate, Flavio Pizzato is descended from Italian immigrants what came to Brazil in the late 1800's. Flavio founded his winery in 1999 and has transferred his passion on to his wine--making rich Cabernet, superb Chardonnay and outstanding Merlot. His Concentus blend of Merlot, Tannat and Cabernet Sauvignon has long been a favourite. (SAQ, Quebec)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Canada </b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Quebec</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Eastern Townships</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">The best kept secret in the world for both scenery and wine is the area known as Quebec's Eastern Townships located between the St. Lawrence Lowlands and the American Border. In fact, from some of the higher elevations can be seen the Appalachian Mountains of Vermont. Two wineries make my watch list for 2023! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">C<b>ep d'Argent (Magog)</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGQIRp1ed2gPACd3NIln_zt6ZIIVpmmKFDGhKyrfrkD1m8gSzMPtcg_FrdYwMHEL1-2C85QCkAGDAF9VYaD39v3_2Vut_KAsYfmHaT2YK7z8t-sSql8L5rJ6nKfHKuV0E14nkrKLP4ubZcqh8O2f0XCjnJMTuOObc2Y9GyRlleLjhKlm5YDmF9inO6Ew" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGQIRp1ed2gPACd3NIln_zt6ZIIVpmmKFDGhKyrfrkD1m8gSzMPtcg_FrdYwMHEL1-2C85QCkAGDAF9VYaD39v3_2Vut_KAsYfmHaT2YK7z8t-sSql8L5rJ6nKfHKuV0E14nkrKLP4ubZcqh8O2f0XCjnJMTuOObc2Y9GyRlleLjhKlm5YDmF9inO6Ew" width="320" /></a></div> The Brothers Scieur, Francois and Jean Paul!</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">Located by the shores of the Magog River, this was my initial introduction to the wines of Quebec. The brainchild of Denis Drouhin, it is now owned by two sixth generation champagne makers, Francois and Jean-Paul Scieur who learned the art from their parents in Etoges, Champagne. Using their wine making knowledge they produced phenomenal sparkling wine and "still" wine from French Hybrid grapes. Their Marechal-Foch is excellent and traditional method sparkling wine is to die for! (SAQ) </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Vinoble de L'Orpailleur (Dunham) </b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">French winemaker, Herve Durand bought a unique property in Dunham, Quebec in 1981. He was joined by French viticulturist, Charles-Henri De Coussergues, entertainer/organizer, Frank Furtado and media consultant/legal/contractual specialist, Pierre Rodrique as co-owners of a winery that has become a major player in the province by not only fine vinifera style wine but also accommodating the needs of the business community and operating a superb restaurant. In 2022, the winery celebrated 40 years of making fine wine. Try some of the Cabernet Francs or Chardonnay but make sure you try other blends also! (SAQ) <b> </b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>British Columbia</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Orofino Winery (Similkameen Valley)</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKxkMzYZpxgKQLTc-zXNGrA7vp_XNZo1G5A0el3QPkE3mnWr4GZcLatp7QTxAV1eoItp7e2jqZeR44h6ZvOpeRdGZDy8hsuBeFXjajC48hcP-1ISxzzWsU5TILC6_5L8grWWf4qxzPHSl7dNw7WQxrncXJmxFf220tsr0dZYtywzzpoIMQBMu29w9UuQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1280" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKxkMzYZpxgKQLTc-zXNGrA7vp_XNZo1G5A0el3QPkE3mnWr4GZcLatp7QTxAV1eoItp7e2jqZeR44h6ZvOpeRdGZDy8hsuBeFXjajC48hcP-1ISxzzWsU5TILC6_5L8grWWf4qxzPHSl7dNw7WQxrncXJmxFf220tsr0dZYtywzzpoIMQBMu29w9UuQ" width="320" /></a></div> Orofino owner Virginia Weber<br /></b></span></span><span style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">If there is one Canadian winery that epitomizes excellence, it is the Orofino Winery in British Columbia's Similkameen Valley. I first "discovered" Orofino when I was writing my book "Rendezvous for Dinner" and was so very impressed with it. I had the pleasure of further experiencing Orofino's wines when, in 2009, I tasted its wines when filming the wine show, "Adventures in Wine Country". Presently, I have been enjoying the Red Bridge blend as well as the reds Syrah and Zinfandel. These wines never disappoint. Owners John and Virginia Weber are proud and passionate wine makers and their wines can only grow in reputation. Presently these wines are not available in Ontario so contact winery direct in British Columbia for information.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Tawse Winery (Vineland</b>) </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgyOLcxhwy5fCuZHqzVUP6LGl2ucAcWbjCvjlviQaruBxoHwm6nVN1bZjJyy08Q6eFyYgfccE66Cwr2tAwJqpX8RLisKCZfAgwUc94_r1MYxdSh3qMF_9BchmKZxamhlRJ-P7PiLAd1wVuwoYemDaOoZTmEBJejwFDtZSV62iDjfxQkUOioXPSvD1Z5A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgyOLcxhwy5fCuZHqzVUP6LGl2ucAcWbjCvjlviQaruBxoHwm6nVN1bZjJyy08Q6eFyYgfccE66Cwr2tAwJqpX8RLisKCZfAgwUc94_r1MYxdSh3qMF_9BchmKZxamhlRJ-P7PiLAd1wVuwoYemDaOoZTmEBJejwFDtZSV62iDjfxQkUOioXPSvD1Z5A" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202124; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;"> <b>Tawse Vineyard in Vineland (Niagara)</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Non intervention, passion, organic, healthy vines are part of the philosophy for the great award winning wines made at Tawse. Moray Tawse loved Burgundian Pinot Noir and Chardonnay so he purchased six acres of land in Vineland and in 2005 opened a "state-of-the-art" winery complete with geo-thermal filter and a wetlands bio filter. The rest is history! The 115 acre winery produces some exceptional wine---much of which is available at the LCBO or direct from the winery on Cherry Avenue in Vineland.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; font-size: 14pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">Ziraldo Estate Winery
(Niagara-on-the-Lake)</span></b></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; font-size: 14pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span></b></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; font-size: 14pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBkWc-bcU0pMgD1nXemzMM2hiDcRQ1mqPWzw9fpuiVxvbpZ3WkNQoCaPQeBxE7Lpsj1XgaNSdRmCycDTXUvgXAo1vtJz6KYd7oQr6yti2pX5IOtRdm2V3Hx_Qdw52QNoT7TQpLYAlUYz7nXlL71Tfw6slqb4ytHRjW9UVbO-MFkZ398rPG4GHKyFKgZA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBkWc-bcU0pMgD1nXemzMM2hiDcRQ1mqPWzw9fpuiVxvbpZ3WkNQoCaPQeBxE7Lpsj1XgaNSdRmCycDTXUvgXAo1vtJz6KYd7oQr6yti2pX5IOtRdm2V3Hx_Qdw52QNoT7TQpLYAlUYz7nXlL71Tfw6slqb4ytHRjW9UVbO-MFkZ398rPG4GHKyFKgZA" width="320" /></a></b></div></div><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;"> Dr. Donald Ziraldo at Ziraldo Estates</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span class="xcontentpasted0" style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; padding: 0in;">The awards, honours and accolades pertaining to icon of Canadian and
International wine and Order of Canada inductee, Donald Ziraldo, would fill
several books. Suffice to say that after co-founding the first winery (Inniskillin) to be
issued a winery license since 1929 and establishing what was to become the
first boutique winery in Canada, he became known as the ambassador of Canadian
wine. In 2006 he founded the Ziraldo Estate Winery making first class
Ice-wine </span></span><span class="xcontentpasted0" style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-size: 14pt; padding: 0in;">as well as having</span></span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #242424; font-size: 14pt; padding: 0in;"> established Ziraldo Prosecco in Valdobiadenne,
Italy. (Soon to be available at LCBO) With other Ziraldo projects expectations
are high that this is not the end! Donald Ziraldo possesses Honourary Doctors of Law Degrees from both Guelph and Brock Universities! To be watched</span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #242424; font-size: 11.5pt; padding: 0in;">!<span class="xcontentpasted0"><span style="background: white;"> </span></span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Portugal</span></b></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Dao Region</span></b></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">The Dao wine region was one of the most under-rated wine regions whose time has now come to pass! It makes magnificent wines ---many for long aging. With vines over one hundred years of age and a tradition that goes back centuries Dao offers many styles of wine that please many tastes. The movement here is in the cultivation of local varieties--many of which were endangered. Natural wines with little manipulation and/or interference is becoming the rule and a number of strong minded winemakers </span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">defy the odds and establishment to make some majestic wine. Surrounded my mountains and close to the ocean influences, This area is showing what human ingenuity, patience and working with nature can produce!</span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_g9MpYhxgP2K2iW3Pk-riqv1uWY12sbHfDfMesoH4u8icLOGkBGN0g6O6suYsqJWVjUKlPsBi0N79lMPoL_tlxQsIRXqYn9RP4bTf2jMM8GDf4w8S9HGWPjUw5i8hOE7uVClL8UgNIuP5_8J5Hwj_Suwcd2RWDSIJdsZD7PiZmkaJj8V9q0lD_OVWJw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3325" data-original-width="2494" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_g9MpYhxgP2K2iW3Pk-riqv1uWY12sbHfDfMesoH4u8icLOGkBGN0g6O6suYsqJWVjUKlPsBi0N79lMPoL_tlxQsIRXqYn9RP4bTf2jMM8GDf4w8S9HGWPjUw5i8hOE7uVClL8UgNIuP5_8J5Hwj_Suwcd2RWDSIJdsZD7PiZmkaJj8V9q0lD_OVWJw" width="180" /></a></div> <b>Joao Tavares de Pina</b><br /><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Quinta da Boavista/Joao Tavares de Pina Wines (Penalva do Castelo)</b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><p></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Quinta da Boavista under the direction of Joao Tavares de Pina has produced some of the finest wines in Portugal. The organically maintained vineyards that lie sheltered by nearby Granite Mountains alon with the Nearby Atlantic Ocean, are fortunate enough to have mild winters and moderate summers. Here, the deepgranite/clay and schist soils produce superb grapes such as Jaen, Touriga Nacional and Pinheira (also known as Rufete).</span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Joao makes sure his land has a rich biodiversity. Along with the natural forests of oak and eucalyptus, he has clover, grasses, lavender, wild flowers and chamomile. </span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Joao strives to make wines of great intensity and expression. He practices old world methods which are the basis of his method of non interference in the production of his wine. He does not even till the soil for fear of affecting the biodiversity.</span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Joao believes in a strong ecosystem where nature takes its course. His wines reflect this natural trend. He would be first to tell you that in spite of the "natural wine craze", he has been following that path before the phrase was ever thought of. </span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">" I make wine that I like to drink!" This is his motto!</span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">In addition to his classic wine, he has planted many endangered and almost extinct indigenous vines. Joao is a rebel! He follows the beat of his own drum and, quite frankly, it looks good on him! It is those like him that progress to show the world how great wine can be made. More should do it! (SAQ) </span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Quinta dos Roques (Abrunhosa do Mato)</b></span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiiEa0FVirHkEIz3ijMVsJLJxEYI1K_2B2gaVR2wpWorb6tPZOaIuxUQEVrGPHotGnrtL7w9sHvySvRTVgnAGN9Os4ZQPw9F8YljGC-57NmP731REDkxhgkpk3u9TgcanjgdekXwmP1gfdDakWoTt2zAbK7VijB2tUZkqDBcfgBdK8VQ7z9plhoiK-eXg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiiEa0FVirHkEIz3ijMVsJLJxEYI1K_2B2gaVR2wpWorb6tPZOaIuxUQEVrGPHotGnrtL7w9sHvySvRTVgnAGN9Os4ZQPw9F8YljGC-57NmP731REDkxhgkpk3u9TgcanjgdekXwmP1gfdDakWoTt2zAbK7VijB2tUZkqDBcfgBdK8VQ7z9plhoiK-eXg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><b> Quinta dos Roques<br /></b></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">In the early 1980's the decision was made to move ahead with plans of revamping a Quinta whose wine was, until then used for private consumption. Luis Lourenco upgraded his winery's vineyards and added grape varieties, mechanization and new methods of viticulture to old practices. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">The 35 hectares of vines now include 75% red varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Jaen, Tinto Cao, Tinta Roriz and Alfrocheiro, The remaining 25% are white with such grapes as Encruzado, Malvasia Fina, Bical, Cerceal and Gouveio (Verdelho).</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="xmsonormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">Presently, production is delivered to 15 countries including Canada, Japan and the United States. The wines are spectacular in their concentration and elegance. The Alfrocheiro is my favourite but each single variety and blend makes this </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"> Quinta one to seek out. (SAQ)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">In my next blog, I will discuss several other wineries that need to be seriously watched in 2023! Stay tuned for Part Two of Wineries to Watch For In 2023! </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></b></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></b></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></b></p></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p><p></p></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-85500509627920808492023-05-06T06:36:00.000-07:002023-05-06T06:36:07.918-07:00Tasting The Old and Discovering The New: Some Fabulous Wines!<div style="text-align: left;"> <b>The Old! The New! The Classic!</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Old!</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">A couple of weeks ago I decided to raid my cellar and treat myself to some of my older vintages. I decided to go back to two of the great vintages which were part and parcel to three consecutively super vintages from Bordeaux. The 1988 and 1989 along with 1990 were highly regarded as some of the best vintages ever.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Kirwan 1988</b> <b>Margaux 3ieme cru 85/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I chose the 1988 Chateau Kirwan, a third growth from the commune of Margaux. The '88 is from a great year though not as the following two years. It still had the "Margaux" properties of elegance, feminine and softness while exhibiting red fruit, vanilla wood, smoke both on the nose and palate! It still had life in it with evidence of soft tannin and a crisp, spicy finish. It definitely was a wine that was fully mature and elderly but still kicking.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments</b>: The chateau goes back to the early 18th Century and was known to Thomas Jefferson. It was named after Mark Kirwan an Irishman who obtained the property by marriage. He built the chateau in the latter half of the 18th Century. The property has been owned by Schroder and Schyler since 1925.</div><div style="text-align: left;">The wine has gained a better reputation in recent years. The combination of excellent location, gravel soil and blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot give it a good length of life. I enjoyed it and enjoyed drinking history. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>Roast Beef, pork or Chicken. Easy on the sauce. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Latour-Martillac 1989 Pessac-Leognan (formerly Graves) </b> <b> 88/100 points (Red)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This chateau has a great deal of ancient history which goes back to the 12th Century though the ancient tower is all that remains. The property has been in the Kressmann Family since the late 19th Century with the planting of grapes in 1884. Some of these grapes (White Semillon) are now 140 years old.</div><div style="text-align: left;">The chateau has plantings of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Semillon. Martillac red wines have plantings of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 5% Petite Verdot </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Martillac-Latour 1989 would be described by may critics as fully mature and, due to its age, in danger of drying up but I found quite the opposite. I found it still vibrant and complex with red fruit, cigar smoke, wet leaves, earth on the nose and soft, medium bodied, elegant on the finish. I actually preferred it to the Kirwan.</div><div style="text-align: left;">There is no question that like the Kirwan, Martillac is showing its age but it is doing so gracefully. I have no intent on guzzling my remaining bottles. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Martillac-Latour initially started with white grape vine plantings. The red vines are planted on gravelly soil on the plateau while the white vines are planted on clay/limestone soil next to the Garonne River. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing:</b> The red Martillac would be a great accompaniment with beef, lamb, duck and chicken while the white would be great with sea food, veal, pork and cheese. As with Kirwan, I would suggest easy on various sauces!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The New</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Bodegas Benegas (Mendoza) Malbec Vintages:547331 94.5/100 </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">Outstanding for quality, this winery goes back over 100 years and has its original cellars from 1901. The history of the Benegas family goes far further and included the signing of an 1820 independence peace treaty at its farm as well as having many of the family members involved in important political posts. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">Family patriarch, Don Tiburico searched wine regions for vine cuttings and encouraged any who wanted to grow vines. He founded El Trapiche Winery in 1883 but sold it in 1970.Frederico Benegas Lynch was born in 1951 and after spending a number of years working in the Trapiche vineyards and tasting wines with his father, came under the influence of Trapiche's winemaker, Angel Mendoza. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">He repurchased the family vineyard "Finca Libertad" and purchased a 19th Century winery----adding the Benegas name </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">He
repurchased the family vineyard “Finca Libertad”, purchased a 19</span><sup style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">th</sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">
century winery and added the Benegas name.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">He enlisted wine consultant Michel Rolland and Napa winemaker, Paul Hobbs. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">The wine comes from Benegas owned vineyards, Finca Libertad ad Finca Incerrada with vine age ranging from 70 to 128 years. The grapes are carefully cultivated and selected and Fermentation are strictly controlled. Vineyard heights range from 850 to 2800 </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">metres!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><b>Comments:</b> Excellent concentration. Chewable plum, cedar, red and black fruit with floral violet background. Pleasant tannin on a medium to full body. Long finish. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well made and reasonably priced. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Classic</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Inniskillin Montague Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2018 VQA Vintages 997393 90/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Inniskillin will always go down in Canadian Wine History as being the trail blazer that encouraged other boutique wineries to occur. It went through the hardships of going through the paces of developing a standard by which all Ontario and Canadian wineries are measured. Donald Ziraldo and Karl Kaiser took great pain and risk to do what no other wine maker had done before -----the successful growing, cultivating and vinifying vinifera vines. Wineries throughout this country owe them a debt of gratitude and respect. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Ziraldo and Kaiser purchased the Montague Vineyard (1982) from another trail blazer, Stan Murdza who, with great foresight, planted original vines in 1970. He proved that vinifera could be grown in Ontario. Director of Viticulture Gerald Close is credited with preparing the vineyard, new planting of specific clones and cover crop. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Award winning winemaker Bruce Nicholson has shown his capable talent in producing a wine that reflects the characteristic of a great Pinot Noir according to the Niagara terroir. The vines had a rough period in 2018 owing to weather that was fickle! </div><div style="text-align: left;">Winter was cold then warm in February spawning early development and then winter returned in an April cold spell. A warm May and hot summer ensured early development of the grapes---many varieties ripening early. Harvest was a problem with rain and more rain but earlier picking through dry days and careful selection of grapes ensured that the quality was good. In all, most declared a successful though difficult, schizophrenic vintage. Pinot Noir is a difficult grape enough to deal with but this year must have driven wine makes to distraction!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments:</b> Pinot is suited to cool climate viticulture and the Montague Single Vineyard. In each passing vintage the vines grow older (the oldest going back to '70's) and the Pinot certainly likes its home. The 2018 shows floral cherry, strawberry, cranberry on nose with a tender ripeness of vanilla and anise. The medium body has pleasant but firm tannin which adds strength to the wine. Pleasant acidity with a nice, long finish. Reviews say that it would be good now though I would love to try it in about another five years. <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>Roast turkey, roast beef, pork roast. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau d'Aurilhac 2011 Haut-Medoc 85/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b>I purchased this wine through "Wine-On-Line" for several reasons but mainly due to Jancis Robinson's comments about it, its history and the fact that the wine came directly from the chateau with no third party handling. The fact that great pain is taken to carefully pick and handle the grapes and general care for the vineyard made this wine very attractive. The reasonable price of purchase ($29.95) didn't hurt either. The winery is owned by Eric Nieuwaal and is in the ha2.5mlet of Saint Seurin de Cadourne on the outskirts of the Commune of Pauillac (Home of Latour, Mouton-Rothschild and Lafite) and also bordering with the Commune of Saint Estephe.. </div><div style="text-align: left;">The vineyard which was planted in 1983, used to be a cattle meadow though vines were grown in the area since the middle ages. Eric planted 11 hectares with 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46%, Merlot, 2.5% Cabernet Franc and 2.5 % Petite Verdot. The vines are 15 to 20 years of age growing in a splendid mixture of gravel and clay! This is certainly a chateau to watch!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>2011 was a weird vintage in Haut Madoc and much of Bordeaux since Spring turned out to be quite hot with some drought conditions. Summer was cooler with rain in August. Cabernet Sauvignon was having trouble ripening. Intermittent storms caused much in the form of rot and grape dilution due to rain. Weather improved in the fall and vineyards that could wait profited with a warm Autumn. </div><div style="text-align: left;">At the chateau, careful selection (double grape selection) and scrupulous methodology made the making</div><div style="text-align: left;">of the red wine better. White wine faired better but both red and white wines proved good.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Chateau d' Aurilhac 2011 still has much life in it beyond the stated developing time. The colour is still red with a nose of dark fruit, smoke, earth and nuances of wood. The palate is medium to full body, with respectful tannin with a dry, slightly acidic finish. A good wine made in a somewhat difficult year.</div><div style="text-align: left;">While some may say that the wine is "over the hill", I would say it is fully mature but will hang on to develop for several more years especially if kept in a good cellar. A Sichel (Chateau Palmer etc.) </div><div style="text-align: left;">wine brand!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing:</b> Beef, Game, Pork, Roast Turkey, Duck, Lamb </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-51960795232395781922023-02-01T11:14:00.008-08:002023-02-06T07:39:34.350-08:00New Wine On The Horizon<div style="text-align: left;"><b>SPARKLING</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Cave Poulet et Fils Clairette de Die: Tradition Vercheny, France $19.95 93/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: white sparkling, fine bubbles, light yellow </div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: floral, honeysuckle, mineral, yeast</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Lychee, touch of sweetness, light body, lovely mouth feel, refreshing light acidity.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Great as an aperitif but excellent with fried chicken, cold cuts. The wine is cold fermented very slowly with a second fermentation in the bottle via residual sugar. No added dosage after wine has sediment removed! Also good with sweet tarts. Made from Muscat Blanc and Clairette Blanche!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO # 460758</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>WHITE</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Bodegas Alceno Romeo Verdejo 2021 Jumilla S/E Spain $13.45 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: pale straw with greenish tinge</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: fresh, citrus lemon, orange peel, floral blossom, herbal</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: light to medium, nice balance, pleasant bitter finish with some herbal</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: From a winery that started in 1870, now owned by the Bastida Family. The Verdejo grape produced entirely in Spain is not familiar to many tasters. It makes a great aperitif due to its acidity and bitterness. Try it with salads, light meats, oily fish, Definitely can be used with many spices and fatty vegetables such as avocados and potatoes as well as variety of cheeses. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO:# 32105 </b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Naturalis Organic Sauvignon Blanc 2022 South Australia $16.95 93/100 points</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: white, clear with a slight greenish hue</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: gooseberry, lychee, herbal grass, passion fruit, citrus</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: light, refreshing, with a white berry, crisp finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: From a serious wine company. Wine comes from a Certified Organic Vineyard. Absolutely no synthetic pesticides, fungicides, fertilizers are used. Grapes picked at dawn to maintain coolness. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Excellent wine with seafood, salads, light dishes or as an aperitif. (From Angove)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO #32833</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Rapaura Springs Sauvignon Blanc</b> <b>2022 Marlborough, NZ $19.95 95/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: White with greenish hue</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: powerful citrus, mandarin, passion fruit, herbal nose</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: dry, light to medium body, nice acidity with a superb and long lasting citrus peel finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: One great taste experience from the "get go"! The wine just keeps on giving and giving on the palate even after several minutes. While I would drink this wine alone, why cheat myself by omitting a food match. Definitely made for a nice meal such as: seafood or clam chowder, chicken with cream sauce, shell fish, salmon based salads. At the above price, get a case and enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO </b># 465880</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>RED</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Cave des Vignerons de Buxy, Bourgogne "Buissonier" Pinot Noir 2020 $22.95 93/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: Red</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: cherry, red fruit, earth, smoke and burning leaves, some herbal spice</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: medium to full body. dry, well balanced, soft tannin, anise on the finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Good price/quality ration and inexpensive for a Burgundy. From a co-operative in the Cote Chalonnaise just south of the Cote d'Or. The wine is well made and a good buy for Burgundy lovers. Would pair nicely with the following: Veal, duck, beef stew, Beef Bourgogne, Grilled Salmon!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO #11901</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Larrikin Cabernet Shiraz McLaren Vale 2020 </b> <b>$22.95 </b> <b>94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: Inky red</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: black fruit, earth, smoke, dried forest leaves, coffee, cocoa and floral notes</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: pepper and herbal spice, full body, well balanced, soft tannin, long anise finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: for the above price, one could not do any better. A wine that will develop more complexity as time goes on. The wine comes from the Black Sheep Vineyard in McLaren Vale which has a high reputation of producing top, long lived wine. This is no exception and for that price, I would suggest buying at least six bottles and watching them develop over the next several years. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO: TBA (for more information contact the "Case for Wine Agency" Pickering --416-482-0241)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Caves du Chateau des Loges Beaujolais-Villages (Perreon) 2022 92/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: Cherry red</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Some plum but lots of red fruit such as raspberry and strawberry, earth, </div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Medium bodied, lovely mouth feel, smooth with nice acid touch. Long finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Purchased in 1960 by A group of winemakers that transformed the property into a very high standard of biodiversity and sustainability. The present vintage is highly regarded for this wine.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairs well with a variety of pasta dishes, veal cutlets, pork and grilled meat.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I was very pleasantly surprised by this wine made from 100% Gamay since it tasted more like a Burgundy. Excellent value in the United States. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LCBO: TBA (for more information contact the "Case for Wine Agency" Pickering ----416-482-0241)</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-4580434542958153992022-12-14T04:19:00.004-08:002022-12-14T04:42:05.724-08:00Excellent Wine Need Not -Be Pricey: Here Are Six Examples!<div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Points In Relation To Quality/Price</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;">The 100 point system is an easy one to understand. A wine that scores in the 90's would be deemed better than one that scores in the 80's. However one item that comes into the equation is "Price". Would a $200 bottle of wine out class a $12 wine in a tasting of "expert analysts"? Chances are yes! However, a neophyte tasting a young Mouton or Petrus might not appreciate it as much as a $12 bottle of Cabernet-Shiraz from Australia. Points can determine the discernable complexity of a wine but not always the "appreciativeness" of it. When I find a wine that I think that the general public would enjoy and afford, the points go up.</div><div style="text-align: left;">So a $1000 (714 Euro) Mouton Rothschild could score a 98/100 for its 2020 vintage due to its greatness and potential but a simple $12.00 Cabernet-Shiraz in my opinion could score a 94/100 for its immediate appreciative value based on price. Would Mouton be a greater wine---most likely! But---I would gladly buy the Cabernet-Shiraz for its price and immediate value. No brainer!</div><div style="text-align: left;">The following wines are extremely fine both in price and quality.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>White </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Cape Chenin Blanc 2022 Western Cape South Africa $16.95 93/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Clear, light yellow<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>floral blossom, pear, pineapple, citrus, straw</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>light to medium body, integrated, well balanced acidity, super mouth feel, fresh finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>light meat, veggie burgers, aperitif, fish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments</b>: nice price/quality ratio, party wine, pleasing</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Le Colonne Vermentino 2021 Tuscany Italy $16.95 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>clear, light straw </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>citrus predominates, mango, apple blossom, banana, herbal grass</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>medium body, pleasant acidity, nutty finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing</b>: finger food such as chicken fingers, cold cuts, vegan food, fried calamari, shell fish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments</b>: A very versatile white that can be used for many occasions/events. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>LatteMiele Pecorino 2021 Abruzzo Italy $13.95 95/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>clear, light yellow</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>:fruit, floral, orange peel, citrus, pebble</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>citrus lemon, medium body, great mouth feel, pleasant acid finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing:</b> pasta with cream sauce, pasta with mushroom sauce, sea food marinara</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>A wine with character and individuality at a great price. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Red</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Naturalis Shiraz: 2021 South Australia </b> <b>$16.95 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>dark purple</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>dark fruit, (black cherry, blackberry, plum) cinnamon, currant, spice</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: medium-full body, velvet smooth mouth feel, pepper spice, anise, long finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing:</b> roast beef, venison, oxtail, black forest ham</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments</b>: An organic wine which value far outweighs the price. Keeps evolving in the glass! Good for at least 5 to 7 years aging. Produced by the Angove Family, this totally certified organic wine is also certified vegan. The "Bee" on the label indicates the winery's commitment to the production of wine in association with nature.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Cape Cab 2020 Western Cape South Africa $16.95 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>dark red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose</b>: plum, black cherry, raspberry, currant, cassis, mint, some vanilla wood, chocolate, earth</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: medium body, fruity, nice tannin structure, anise on a long finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>a food wine for Roast Beef, Grilled Steak, Osso Buco</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>ready now but possible age for 5 years plus.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>OGGI Sangiovese 2021 Puglia Italy $11.50 96/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>medium red, clear </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>red cherry, strawberry, herbal extract</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate:</b> medium body, pleasant tannin, fresh acidity, clean cherry finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing</b>: nice on own but a great grilled food wine with foods such as steak, salmon, veal, chicken, pasta with tomato or even carbonara sauce, burgers, cold cuts.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>enough cannot be said for quality/price ratio of this wine. This wine is a true buy and definitely "A consumer's daily wine!"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-52094246360999771482022-11-28T19:04:00.003-08:002022-11-28T19:04:48.349-08:00Romania Shows Off Its Great Wine<div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Romania</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Romania, being part of the European Union makes it a very accessible country to visit. Romania offers phenomenal scenery, super friendly people and generally, reasonable costs. The scenery is outstanding with its Carpathian Mountains, historic medieval villages and lush forests.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Another thing about Romania is its wine. Strong efforts to upgrade the wine quality have more than succeeded with excellent wines made from international grape varieties as well as superb ones made from indigenous ones. Exciting also are the imaginative and artistic labels that adorn the nicely shaped bottles that house the wine. </div><div style="text-align: left;">While I have yet to visit personally (hopefully in June of 2023), my contacts there have provided me with some interesting wine to taste and, ironically, all are available via the LCBO/SAQ of Ontario and Quebec respectively. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I was recently introduced to an outstanding winemaker with a clear vision of where he wants to take Romanian wine and how. Paul Fulea produced his first wine in 2015 on land that was already under vine (started in 1976) but needed his alteration. He renamed his winery "Crama Histria. The winery covers an area of over 200 Hectares.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Paul still has plans to replenish more of his vineyard as time goes by. I recently was introduced to him via Sommelier Zoltan Szabo and immediately felt a kinship.. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Dobrogea (or Dobruja)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The hilly Dobrogea area close to the Black Sea moderated by it! The area seems ideal for viticulture as is mentioned by Zoltan:</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Merlot planted in '76 on sandy clay at Crama Histria in picturesque Dobruja....pretty special vineyard here with North-South inclination, sitting on a plateau just above (and East of) the Black Sea...with wonderful air/wind drainage, and the impressive diurnal shift (the difference between during the day and night temperatures) maintaining/providing natural acidities... drought is an issue, giving low crop but much higher quality,... natural yeasts/low intervention going on at this winery."</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Wine</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The winery produces a number of wines made from both international and indigenous grapes. (White)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Muscat Ottonel, Traminer, Fateasca Regala (Red) Fateasca Neagra, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Paul sent me a sample of three bottles via his agent in Quebec--"Maison Nobleza: maisonnobleza@gmail.com".</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>White</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Crama Histria Riesling 2021 Dobrogea Maison Nobleza $24.40 88/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Straw yellow, clear</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose</b>: Prominent citrus, fruit tree blossom, peach, orange peel</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Light to almost medium body, strong citrus with influence of stone fruit, puckering acidity is tempered by a slight creamy endeavour. Nutty finish with lasting acid refresher.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b> I would prefer this wine with food. The vintage date is not apparent though on website!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b> Shellfish, Fish (especially oily fish such as baked salmon, sardines), octopus, calamari, light meats such as chicken, cold cuts and vegan dishes such as grilled veggies. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Red </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Crama Histria Negru De Histria Dobrogea Maison Nobleza $26.10 90/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Intense red/purple hues </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Black currants, blackberry, clove, vanilla wood</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Prunes, full bodied, lovely soft mouth feel, forward tannins,<b> </b>well balanced with long finish. <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Lovely wine from the first sip. Vintage date not found on this bottle but agent says it is 2017. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>Lamb, roast beef, Osso Buco, grilled beef, aged cheese </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Crama Histria Nikolaos Cab Sauv 2018 Dobrogea LCBO# 27575 $42.95 95/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Deep dark red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Black berry, cassis, plum, wet forest floor, nuances of chocolate, black cherry and polished leather.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Full bodied, round and well integrated with soft tannin and a finish that never stops.<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>Venison, Fillet Mignon, Roast Turkey with gravy, Roast Sirloin</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments:</b> <b> </b>Only available at Ottawa LCBO, a truly amazing wine made with wild yeasts and babied throughout the process. Cabernet name does not appear on label but vintage is 2018. This wine is worth every penny. <b> </b>Can be ordered through Maison Nobleza (maisonnobleza@gmail.com)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="animation-name: none; background-color: #f0f2f5; color: #1c1e21; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; transition-property: none;"><div class="x1yztbdb x1n2onr6 xh8yej3 x1ja2u2z" style="animation-name: none; 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flex: 1 1 0px; font-family: inherit; height: 44px; justify-content: center; margin: -6px -4px; min-width: 0px; padding-left: 12px; padding-right: 12px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative; transition-property: none; white-space: nowrap; z-index: 0;"><div class="x9f619 x1n2onr6 x1ja2u2z x78zum5 xdt5ytf x2lah0s x193iq5w xeuugli x150jy0e x1e558r4 x10b6aqq x1yrsyyn" style="animation-name: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-shrink: 0; font-family: inherit; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; padding: 6px 4px; position: relative; transition-property: none; z-index: 0;"><span class="x193iq5w xeuugli x13faqbe x1vvkbs x1xmvt09 x1lliihq x1s928wv xhkezso x1gmr53x x1cpjm7i x1fgarty x1943h6x xudqn12 x3x7a5m x6prxxf xvq8zen x1s688f xi81zsa" color="var(--secondary-text)" dir="auto" style="animation-name: none; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.9375rem; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.3333; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; transition-property: none; word-break: break-word;"><br /><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-63703828627106730812022-11-24T15:48:00.003-08:002022-11-24T15:56:29.978-08:00These California Wines Have Quality PLUS Great Value!<div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Trinchero Family Estate Wines</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Trinchero Family Estate Wines is a NAPA wine producer with a large number of wine brands made by various successful wine makers. Two of these wine brands have proved excellent in both price and quality. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Three Thieves </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">From select vineyards in California under the guidance of three individuals who decided to make wine according to their own drum beat. The result was magnificent wine that is made with grapes from select vineyards that brings excellent price quality ratio. The "Thieves", Joel Gott, Charles Bieler and Roger Scommegna have a lot to be proud of. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Three Thieves Pinot Noir Central Coast California LCBO #10424 $17.95 88/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Grape: </b>76% Pinot Noir, 18% Syrah, 6% Petite Verdot</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour</b>: Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b> Floral, plum, black cherry, some mushroom, with light vanilla wood</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Dry<b>, </b>medium to full Body, smooth tannins, dark fruit. pleasant persistent finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comment: </b>Excellent quality/price ratio and definitely worth purchasing for that special meal. I truly liked this wine and it comes at a price that can make it a frequent visitor in your household! French/American Oak.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairing: </b>Turkey, pork/ham dishes, would be great with Mushroom Swiss Burger! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Joel Gott</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Joel Gott is fast becoming a demand winemaker and legend in California. His persistence in making quality wines his own way has paid off with some great value wine that is equal in quality to wine that is much higher in price. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Joel Gott 815 Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 California Vintages # 444059 $24.95 89/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Grape: </b>100% Cabernet Sauvignon from select California Vineyards.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Dark fruit, herbal flavours, vanilla wood, chocolate nuances with anise</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate:</b> Full body, savory fruit, smooth tannins and balanced acidity. long pleasant finish</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>At $24.95 an excellent choice. It is $25.60 at the SAQ in Quebec and cost about $20 American in the U.S.A. There is a 375 ml bottle at $14.95 (Vintages #20717) in some stores. New French Oak. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pairings: </b>Moroccan Lamb, Slow cooked Roast Beef and Lamb Burgers. Also terrific with Steak on a Kaiser and Chopped Steak Burger. Even good with a medium rare Porter House of Filet Mignon. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-5291797854591752802022-09-29T14:40:00.003-07:002022-09-29T14:40:51.695-07:00The Search For An Answer Cannot Provide The Closure To The Question! Patrick Del-Gatto (May 22, 1963-September 15, 2022) <div style="text-align: left;"> He came from a traditional heritage of wine making! In his veins flowed the blood of generations of vignaioli who worked the land, grew the vines, wiped the sweat, kicked the dirt, picked the grapes and made the wine. Patrick Del-Gatto inherited the love of the vine, in all its manners, that was handed down from from father to son for four generations going back to the time of his great grandfather who was the winemaker in the village of Croce some 75 kilometres from Naples, Italy!</div><div style="text-align: left;">This ingrained feeling of "the earth" never left Patrick Del-Gatto even though his family settled far away from the peaceful village that they came from to the City of Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Deep down Patrick knew that he wanted to get his hands in some soil and kick dirt with his boots. This yearning took him to Prince Edward County where he was determined to risk all and bring back the family tradition.</div><div style="text-align: left;">He and his father took several trips to potential sites and as luck would have it, during early winter they came upon as site which made the older Del-Gatto's eyes open wide. </div><div style="text-align: left;">In a widespread area of dead vegetation they came upon a parcel of land that still had flowers and green grass. This was the land and Del-Gatto Estates began!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Patrick and I met about six years ago at the winery. It was a long trip and Del-Gatto was the last of group being visited. I was ready to call it a day but Roy Maeder who was driving encouraged me to go on since we only had six kilometres to go. I relented and the rest was fate taking its turn.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Patrick came out to greet us with an infectious smile that outshone the bright shining day. Challenging his smile was the enthusiastic shine of his eyes as he introduced us to his winery, showed us his wine and explained what he was doing and where he wanted to go with this. </div><div style="text-align: left;">It wasn't an easy road to undertake. There were many potholes, some very serious, that made the journey very difficult. Everything from the passing of his beloved father, family health problems and equipment breakdown added to the usual problems of weather, pests and government interference. Patrick and his wife Heidi carried on. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Whether attempting to grow and make wine out of vinifera species not supposed to grow in the region to the trying out of new hybrids from Minnesota to the production of figs from his beloved fig tree, Patrick did it all with the same enthusiasm that he greeted his friends. Among the many things that he did was the successful production of his prized wine "Odyssey Pinotage".</div><div style="text-align: left;">He became enamoured with the South African Grape and was positive he could produce it here in the microclimate of Prince Edward County's beautiful North Marysburgh! He went at it with his usual gusto and it was no surprise that he did it! I am proud to have almost every vintage in my cellar. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Patrick was a man who cared. He cared about his family. He cared about his friends. He cared about his land. He cared about his vines. He just cared about life.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I have never met a man like him who I was drawn to without the opportunity to spend much time with. We weren't buddies in the buddy sense of the word. The man was bigger than life and filled a room with his aura every time he entered it. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I was fortunate to have him attend the International Wine Festival held yearly at the City of Oshawa's McLaughlin Art Gallery! It was no surprise that he outshone the other wineries present. People saw and felt what I saw and felt on that first day and every time he and I met. They saw charm, honesty, integrity, intelligence and above all love. I will miss him! We all will miss him!</div><div style="text-align: left;">There is a saying that an oriental instructor once taught me:</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Love cannot be measured until the hour of passing. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Trust comes from within one! </div><div style="text-align: left;">Is not to trust but to rely on someone we know nothing about?</div><div style="text-align: left;"> Every ending has a new beginning. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Seek not to know the answers but to understand the questions!"</div><div style="text-align: left;">Patrick we will meet again and maybe you can help me understand those questions!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-42930930824967786282022-08-16T15:31:00.003-07:002022-08-18T04:54:58.279-07:00Three Wines That Will "Knock Your Socks Off"<div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Tasting New Wine</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Always a lesson and many times a surprise, tasting new wine that I had not the pleasure of doing so previously can be so surprising. This week I visited The Case For Wine Agency in Pickering. Three wines awaited me----all from France and all with exceptional quality/price ratios. Trust me, if you happen to get a chance to taste these wines and like them-----make sure you buy more than just a couple since I am sure that once "discovered" they will fly off the shelves. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Doudet-Naudin </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>(Note: Doudet's wine will not be released in Ontario until January 2023 However both of the wines are available via the SAQ if you happen to be in Quebec----Vive La Quebec!!) </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Founded in 1849 by Albert Brenot of Savigny-les-Beaune, this Burgundy Maison is now headed by Christophe Rochet of the Doudet family which purchased it in 1933! Determined to produce wines through valued techniques and practices, Doudet-Naudin has holdings throughout Burgundy and Southern France.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Both the Doudet-Naudin wines that I tasted are of the Vins de France designation and come from the Aude River Valley located between the Pyrenees Mountains and the Mediterranean. The region was once part of the Languedoc-Roussilon which is now under the name of Occitanie. </div><div style="text-align: left;">The Aude Valley is a superb scenic region that is part of the winding Aude River. It is full of ancient castles and geographic formations. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Doudet-Naudin Chardonnay 2021 Price: $17.95 Points: 94/100</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: Clear, Lemon-Yellow</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Citrus, apple, peach, pear, touch of Butter, vanilla</div><div style="text-align: left;">Plate: Silky smooth mouth feel, stone fruit, light to medium body, pleasant acidity and clean finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Light meat, pasta with cream sauce, prosciutto, grilled vegetables, salmon, chowder. Excellent on its own!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Don't let the Vins de France designation fool you. This is a first class wine for the money! It is aged in stainless steel and 15% of final blend is aged in barrel. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Doudet-Naudin Pinot Noir 2021 Price: $17.95 Points: 92/100</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: Red, Clear</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Cherry, raspberry, blackberry, earth, forest, floor, vanilla wood and floral violet</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Medium body, fresh fruit flavour, pleasant tannin, smooth clean finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Pork, chicken, light meat</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: A good Pinot based on price. Aged in stainless steel tanks with part of the blend being aged in barrel. Well worth the price! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Vaugelas 2019 Vintages # 154617 Price:$15.95 Points: 94/100 </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This wine comes from the same general area as Doudet-Naudin (Occitanie formerly Languedoc-Roussilon). The winery is in a historic area in the centre of Corbierres. The vineyards were introduced by the Greeks in the 2nd Century BC and further developed by the Cistercian Monks. Vineyards rose prominently in the 18th century and this was furthered by the organization of producers was established in 1923 and Corbierres joined the AOC classification in 1985. Chateau Vaugelas is owned by the Vinobles Bonfils!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Grape Blend: Syrah (40%), Grenache (30%), Carignan (27%), Mourvedre (3%) </div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: Dark red, clear</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Dark fruit, cherry, blackberry, fig, vanilla, jam and a touch of chocolate</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Medium plus body, fruity, pleasant tannin, integrated acidity and long finish </div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Red meat (burgers, steak, roast beef, filet mignon), roast turkey, venison </div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Certainly a super wine at this price. It will develop well over the next five to ten years. I was tempted to give this wine a 95 points based on the price but 94 says it all about this super wine. If you haven't got it yet, I would certainly suggest you grab some asap. Once discovered this wine will be gone at that price! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">France has continued in its march to produce some fine wine at great prices. One does not need to break the bank to enjoy wine and food. Let's just hope that the fortunes of Europe will swing around to the positive in the next few years concerning climate change. Meanwhile try these wines! </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-2859493307723981912022-06-26T07:25:00.004-07:002022-07-01T04:52:16.220-07:00Enjoying Wines of Summer <div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Summer Is Upon Us</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yupper the heat is on and the wines are coming out faster than any "Fast and Furious" movie. </div><div style="text-align: left;">The following wines have been tasted by me to my delight!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Strewn Lively Riesling Niagara Peninsula 88/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: Golden Straw </div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Dominant citrus, apricot/peach, honey, floral blossom notes</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Light to medium body, silky mouth feel, steel, citrus, mid sweet, fine acid finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Great wine on its own but would go amazingly with salads (wine dressing or better still salt/olive oil), smoked salmon, salmon filet, pork and/or prosciutto.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Available through Case-Wine (info@case-wine.com) or at Winery ($19.95)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nice all purpose Riesling with class and structure. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Konzelmann Estate Gewurztraminer Late Harvest Reserve Niagara Peninsula 90/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: Golden yellow</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Floral rose, Citrus, lychee nut, banana, ginger spice, mango/melon ripe apricot </div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Medium body, oily smooth mouthful, semi-sweet, tropical flavours, smooth silky finish..</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Can be considered as a dessert wine, spicy Asian, Chinese food, seafood, smoked salmon, as an aperitif. Nice wine with many uses. Available through Case-Wine (info@case-wine.com) or winery ($19.95). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Hinterbrook Estate Winery</b> <b>Autumn Snow Riesling 2021 NOTL 86/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Colour: White, </div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Effervescence, granny smith apple lemon citrus, peach, floral hints</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Light body, touch of sweetness, steel/stone pebbles, citrus, crisp acidity, fresh clean finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairings: Chinese/Asian food, seafood, cold cuts </div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: The example I tasted had a fair amount of effervescence which was somewhat surprising. On checking with the wine maker she stated that it was due to residual primary fermentation which remained in the bottle due to the minimal and gentle racking, chilling before bottling and use of agglomerated corks. She also suggested that if the "fizz" would dissipate if wine decanted Available via winery or through Case-Wine (info@case-wine.com) ($17.85).</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><p><br /></p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-51032538367021058002022-05-26T10:46:00.000-07:002022-05-26T10:46:44.062-07:00Spring Brings In Wine Anticipation<div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Spring Adventures </u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">March is not my favourite month. With unstable temperatures and either wet or icy weather plus the constant availability of muddy areas that I inadvertently step on, messing my shoes and then my car etc. March is a month that I want to get through asap. However the bright side of this month is that it is one month closer to warmer weather and green grass and bright sunshine and freedom from snow. </div><div style="text-align: left;">With that in mind, I began enjoying the better parts of March.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Fun Lunch at Amici </u></div><div style="text-align: left;">Durham Region has many fine restaurants but by far, my favourite is Amici Trattoria in Pickering. Under the ownership of Anthony (Tony) Albis and managed by his son Roberto, this establishment has risen to superb heights in the making of fine cuisine of all styles. Roberto, along with his partner Ruben Elmer, also owns the wine agency called "The Case for Wine" which supplies the restaurant from its superb portfolio.. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Jay Wright</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">On March 10th, I had the pleasure of dining with Mr. Jay Wright, CEO and President of the Arterra Wines Canada, at Amici. Jay took time from his ultra busy life to spend a couple of hours discussing wine, food and pairings at a restaurant that had all. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Jay told me that he was soon to retire from the above position though he still would have some involvement l with the company. Rightly so! Jay did a first rate job in his association with VinCor, then Constellation and finally with Arterra. His influence on Canadian wine (as well as international) has been second to none and along with Donald Triggs, his contribution to the trade knows no bounds. I was and still am so proud to be associated with him and call him my friend! </div><div style="text-align: left;">The order of the day was a delicious Fillet of Salmon with vegetables baked to perfection. The first course was my favourite, Fried Calamari. Wines that accompanied the meal were Inniskillin Chardonnay and Inniskillin Pinot Noir, both from the single Montague vineyard. </div><div style="text-align: left;">The wines were the creation of famed iconic winemaker Bruce Nicholson. Highly renowned for his creations in British Columbia, he made just as big a name for himself in Ontario. One of his other super wines was the Inniskillin Discovery Series Gamay Noir which I had at home the week before. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Just so you all know, Jay and I did not drink the whole lot of these wines. We had the equivalent of one glass each. It was a super afternoon and hopefully it will happen again!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Inniskillin Chardonnay Montague 2019 Niagara Four Mile Creek $25.95 </b> <b>89/100 points</b> Nose: apple pear, citrus spice, vanilla </div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: medium body, creamy, pleasant finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: seafood, salads, light meats</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: A nice wine for sipping or for that warm summer's evening meal with a seafood salad and grilled veggies.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Inniskillin Pinot Noir Montague 2018 Niagara Four Mile Creek $30.95 90/100 points </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: cherry blossom, black fruit, burning leaves and tanned shoe leather</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: cranberry, strawberry, medium to full in body, a small touch of chocolate and a spicy finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Baked Salmon, Pork loin, roast duck. I would try an older version with choice fillet mignon. Comments: A reasonable price for this wine. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Inniskillin Gamay Noir</b> <b>Discovery Series 2020 Niagara $19.95 88/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Cherry, raspberry, cranberry, floral violet, light vanilla</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Medium body, nice pleasant tannin, pepper spice, pleasant finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Pizza, pork chops, gilled veggies, chicken fingers with poutine! </div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: A super wine to open up and do some unpretentious drinking with some pleasant and easy going food. Lovely wine!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Inniskillin Riesling Reserve 2020 Niagara $21.95*</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Could not assess this wine as wife had drank it before I could get to it----must have been great!</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">For more information on Inniskillin Wine contact www.inniskillin.com</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Michael Pinkus</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Wine writer, consultant, podcaster and television personality Michael Pinkus has proven time and again that he has an amazing palate. On May 3rd we met at Amici for a gab session. Michael and I met via the Wine Writers' Circle of Canada and share some great friends. Michael had just come back from a visit to Italy namely Tuscany. </div><div style="text-align: left;">We spoke about our involvement with the magazine "Grapevine" as well as our respective travels (where his outnumbers mine with a wide margin). Michael has also joined the Circle of Wine Writers in the United Kingdom. If anyone belongs to it, he does! </div><div style="text-align: left;">Mike and I had a great time enjoying the diverse food at Amici's and enjoyed its house wine called Carpazo Sangiovese Toscana (LCBO # 361022 $15). A nice red wine at a reasonable price. I look forward to hearing more about Michael's travels and watching him on his Facebook presentations. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Springtime Wines</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;">This was the year that so many great wines came to my attention. For example, Carpazo Sangiovese Toscana mentioned above:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Carpazo Sangiovese Toscana Tuscany LCBO #341022 $15 92/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Ripe dark stone fruit such as prunes, raspberry and blackberry with hints of chocolate</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Medium body, soft tannin and super nice flavourful finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Pork Souvlaki, Lamb chops, Pizza </div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Worth far more than the $15 price tag. Reasonable enough for every day but also useable for fine dining. Rating based on price/quality</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Mariposa Alegre</b> <b> Gran Reserva Carmenere LCBO # 21957 $16.95 92/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Ripe fruit, vanilla wood, green pepper </div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Medium plus, pleasant tannin, long finish </div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Grilled meat, burgers, hot dogs</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Excellent price/quality ratio. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tasca Regaleali Bianco Sicily (Palermo) 2021 LCBO: TBD 2023 $16.95 94/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Peach, sweet apple, boysenberry, citrus</div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Ripe fruit, light to medium body, soft silky mouth feel, finish is long with ripe fruit and pleasant unobtrusive sweetness.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Pasta with cream sauce, seafood (oysters, smoked salmon, salad).</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: Made from a blend of Grecanico, Catarratto, Insolia and Chardonnay. A high quality, low price wine capable of some development (5 years) in a cellar but why wait. At that price enjoy now! Score is based on quality/price ratio.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>La Gironda Moscato d'Asti 2021 Vintages Considerations $19.95 </b> <b>95/100 points</b> Nose: Intense floral, peach, apricot, honey </div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Pleasant fizz, light bodied, silky with pleasant mouth feel, sweet, ripe fruit and refreshing finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Great on own but certainly will ad to Hazel nut cake, sweet ripe fruit such as figs or strawberry/raspberry pie, salty cheese, smoked salmon, prosciutto, cream cake!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: This is the perfect summer wine for alone or with guests. The 5 % alcohol makes it that much more enticing keeping alcohol intake to a limit. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Points based on quality/price ratio </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Monteci Organic Pinot Grigio 2020 TBR: February, 2023 $18.95 93/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nose: Floral Blossoms, daisies, pear, peach </div><div style="text-align: left;">Palate: Soft, elegant and light bodied, fresh fruit finish</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pairing: Grilled Halloumi cheese, White meat, cold cuts, seafood salad and pasta</div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments: When it's hot outside the rule of the day is not to have "heavy" for wine or meals ----especially outside or on the patio. This wine will do the trick and at a very reasonable price,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Point score based on quality/price ratio.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For more information on the "Springtime Wines" discussed here contact: "The Case For Wine" at www.thecaseforwine.com</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-77761706181883617912022-03-28T09:29:00.216-07:002022-03-28T10:28:44.688-07:00These Wines Are Still Tops In Both Price and Quality <p> <b>Re-tasting Wines Can Be Full Of Surprises!</b></p><p>I recently re-tasted several wines that I had enjoyed in the past. I found that even though I had supremely enjoyed these wines in the past, to my amazement, they seemed even better this time around. </p><p><b>Gran Passione Prosecco </b>White Sparkling Wine $15.95 94/100 points LCBO #16392 </p><p><b>Region: </b>Veneto, Italy</p><p><b>Grape:</b> 100 % Glera </p><p><b>Colour:</b> Golden yellow, small bubbles, brilliant and clear</p><p><b>Nose:</b> Fizz, pear/apple/citrus, floral blossom</p><p><b>Palate: </b>Light, fresh, clean with refreshing finish</p><p><b>Comments: </b>Score based on price/quality ration. One of my "go to" favourites. An excellent summer, patio wine by itself or with antipasto, hors d'oeuvres, light meat.</p><p><b>Blue Canyon Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 </b>$19.95 94/100 points Vintages #17815</p><p><b>Region: </b>Monterey, California, USA <b> </b> </p><p><b>Grape: </b>Cabernet Sauvignon</p><p><b>Colour: </b>Dark red</p><p><b>Nose: </b>Ripe, dark fruit , vanilla, pepper spice, leather, chocolate nuances</p><p><b>Palate: </b>Full bodied, forward tannin, balanced, nice acidity on the finish which does not challenge the wine </p><p><b>Comments: </b>A truly nice cabernet with a boldness that does not go "over the top". Nice muscularity of the lean sort. An athlete rather than a body builder. The power for burgers but the elegance for fine dining with lamb, beef or venison. </p><p><b> Cline Family Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon </b>$22.95 95/100 points Vintages #24914</p><p><b>Region: </b>Contra Costa County</p><p><b>Colour</b>: Very dark red</p><p><b>Grape: </b>Cabernet Sauvignon</p><p><b>Nose: </b>Ripe dark berries, plum, vanilla oak, pepper, earth, chocolate</p><p><b>Palate: </b>Balanced, full bodied, bold, ripe berry finish</p><p><b>Comments</b>: Definitely one for game. Will also do well with roast beef, pork roast and grilled meat. Score indicative of price/quality ratio. Why pay more if one can get a quality wine at this price? Get a case and keep three to five years.</p><p> <b> </b></p><p><b> </b> </p><p> </p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-38631326298611725372021-09-28T08:02:00.001-07:002021-09-28T08:02:45.337-07:00Grapevine Magazine Article for Autumn Season: "To Own A Vineyard----Perchance to Dream-----!" <p> <span style="font-family: times;"><span style="background-color: white; color: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">It seems a universal trait to dream of walking through one’s vineyard on that special clear, cloudless day as the Sun radiates its light upon the rows of vines that stretch far into the horizon. A gentle breeze brushes the face to the tune of the many melodic yellow finches skirting among the growth. The earthy smell with its many floral scents envelopes one’s senses and confesses to last night’s rain. One feels at peace and content.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"></u></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Tony Auciello looks out of his farmhouse window and looks at the wide expanse of his TerraCello vineyard and sees his rendition of Tuscany. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">At his Del-Gatto Estates, Patrick Del-Gatto starts his day checking equipment and prepares for the long day of seasonal vineyard preparation. <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Caroline Granger inspects the budding grapes of what seems to be a great season at her Grange of Prince Edward County.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">For each of these winemakers/owners the experience is both similar and yet different. However, they share the same dream; the same love; the same passion and-------much of the same challenges.<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Originally from Anzano di Puglia (Apulia Region), Italy. Tony Auciello’s trip back home to visit his traditional wine making family turned into an obsession to bring back the family wine making traditions-----in Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Tony was aware of the sacrifices that needed to be made and, setting his dream in motion, he purchased land in the third highest and driest parts of “The County”. <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">The former High School English teacher worked tirelessly day and night for five years building his dream several times “catching” pneumonia. In 2013, TerraCello Winery opened for business.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Pasquale (Patrick) Del-Gatto also had “the dream”. <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>Like Tony, his background stems from a tiny town in Italy. Santa Croce del Sannio is located just north-east of Naples in which his great grandfather was wine maker. The title was passed to his grandfather and then to his father. Patrick was privy to the tradition decided it was time to realize his dream. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">He and his father purchased a 74-acre plot of land in North Marysburgh Township which had a superb microclimate that made it ideal for the vine. <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Patrick decided to leave his job as a supermarket manager, move to Prince Edward County and build his winery. He opened for business in 2009. <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Caroline Granger planted her first vines at The Grange of Prince Edward County in 2001. The pride of The County features a historic barn turned tasting room that looks out on a panoramic view of the 60-acre vineyard. Caroline and daughter Maggie built on the dream that started along with her father, Robert!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">In a previous interview with “The National Post (September, 2011)”, she describes: “I had no idea how exciting it would be, or how triumphant I would feel being able to do something like that, the incredible feeling of accomplishment… …!”<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>The winery opened in 2004.<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Dreams are part of everyone’s life. But---one must be prepared for the challenges they bring with them. Like in any relationship, one cannot live on love alone. So, it goes with the love between a person and his/her land.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Challenges to vineyard ownership begin at the onset. As many business men often say to businesses that do not succeed, “They have dreams but no plan!”<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Tony at TerraCello talked about the “dream busters”! He mentioned winter preparation. “The biggest impediment is our winter insurance policy of sorts whereby we tie the viable fruiting canes to the lowest wire in the fall. You’re bent over the weeks trodden in mud. --- --- it’s damn hard. The work sends grown men home broken and in tears.”<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Tony also mentioned inclement weather that can surprise the winery owner. “Hail can destroy a crop so very quickly.”<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Patrick Del-Gatto mention one fateful day when his St. Croix grape crop was threatened by hail. The grapes were harvested during the hailstorm. The picking was successful and innovative Patrick named the wine “Hailstorm Red”! <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Not all inclement weather ends like this though. Auciello has had his share of hail problems. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">“Hail storms can open up berries attracting bees and ruin half your crop in one night.” But---not only hail is an enemy!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> Auciello described further!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>“An early spring frost has decimated 80 percent of the total crop before the season even began. … … Birds are a huge County problem. We are the top migration area… …! Entire acres of grapes can be devoured by thousands of birds. … … They once ate half my crop in a day. I cried… …!” <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I remember what winery owner/vintner Donald Ziraldo once told me regarding birds and his icewine grapes at his Niagara Inniskillin Vineyard.</span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>“Our very first crop was entirely eaten by them!” He went on to say:</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>“</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">It was Dec 3rd 1983. Karl (Kaiser) came back from a wine symposium in the states and he came into the winery. He said " I told you not to pick those grapes", I said, "I did not, I thought you did." </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">"We had a 1/2 meter of snow the night before and by the time we got to the office the birds had eaten all the 13 rows of Vidal ....</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Then he called his buddies back in Austria and they told him he needed to net the vines...lesson learned.”</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Winery owners probably live on “pins and needles” when it comes to the weather. Too much of anything is not good. </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" /></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">If it rains too much disease and rot may set in. If there is not enough, dry grapes may suck up the water when it does rain and dilute the concentration within the grape. A vineyard may be having a superb year until massive storm clouds appear and destroy. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Then of course there is the vermin which not only includes birds but also rats, mice, squirrels, rabbits and any animal that eats grapes (including humans) ---all of which can destroy a crop. The problem of having a good crop is keeping it!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">In spite of the pitfalls, winery owners keep moving forward!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">A few years ago, I remember Donald Triggs then CEO and President of VinCor International (Now Arterra) answering the question of--- given any chance to be anywhere, he answered, “Anywhere I can kick dirt!” Kicking dirt in this case was farming and vineyards. That is what feeds the passion.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Auciello said it another way, “My passion is watching my grapes develop and grow. I then take them and use my sense of art to make a traditional wine with no filtration and natural settling.” <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">The wine made can be excellent but requires much personal effort both physically and, just as important, financially. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">People who buy the wine may not be as passionate about what goes on other than the fact that they like the wine------and are willing to pay the price. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">It is great to be able to make a fine wine that is without question excellent but if people cannot get the chance to buy the product, then what is the reason. Wine cannot live on passion alone!<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Some Ontario wines are available via the LCBO however as a general rule, just as many wineries sell their wine direct or on line. The financial return is not great!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Heidi Del-Gatto mentions that with the cost of glass products, packaging, licensing fees, staffing, seasonal staff, administration costs and out of pocket expenses, the return on a bottle of wine is little. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">“On a $20 bottle of wine, the producer may net between $5 and $7 and that is from this that we pay our expenses.”<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Caroline Granger also has warned government about the “fragile state of the Ontario Wine Industry”. That its “less than 10 percent market share” has not changed. <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>She has attended “countless meetings” with government officials to remedy the state of wineries in Ontario but so far has had little success with what many of Ontario’s VQA wineries consider an “unfair taxation system” coupled with “limited access to their home market!”<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Caroline and the other wineries also touched on the fact that they cannot compete with the many non-domestic wines available via the LCBO. Many have support from their own wine regions. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">In order to survive Ontario’s wineries have successfully resorted to offering other items to supplement their incomes. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Auciello knew that he made great wine (Boca Nera $75, available at the winery only) but that alone was not going to sustain his finances.<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>Being of Italian heritage and also a good cook, he decided to build a traditional pizza oven and make pizza Neapolitan style!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Tony is regarded as a Pizzaiolo or a trained Pizza Specialist Chef and makes his pizza “lo Schiaffo” traditionally by hand with a slap. Using special dark Carbone dough, he makes the familiar Neapolitan airy thin crust pizza with thick airy edges. It is said to be good for digestion.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Tony is noted about his pizza so much so that a number of wineries have mentioned his pizza sales. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Grange of PEC doesn’t make pizzas but does have special events such as: Wedding packages, Corporate Retreats and Private Dining. All come with special items upon request. Del-Gatto Estates provides music entertainment on its patio while guests have a sip of wine.</span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">In addition, a mobile bar will be joining Grange guests seven days per week (12 – 5 PM) serving cocktails, popsicles beer, and wine plus a gourmet sausage menu. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Most other wineries in all Ontario locations will offer events to foster business. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Jackson Triggs has its magnificent Amphitheatre which entertains guests to various musical events. Inniskillin has its Grill. Norman Hardy has his outdoor patio with tasty treats and so on. Agrotourism is not an extra these days, it is a necessity. <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">As Auciello says, “We have to improvise and initiate ways to increase cash flow!”<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">It truly is amazing the lengths that wineries need to go to stay alive and then, when things seem tough enough------SURPRISE! The Pandemic hits and the Government reacts as expected------Stop everything and the hospitality industry which includes wineries is “boarded up!”<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Granger puts it very aptly, </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">The pandemic has been an awakening for me. A little bit like jumping out of an airplane and realizing you do not have a parachute</span></span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">.”</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">She goes on to say, “<b style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">I have seen all the systemic inequities including the unfair tax burden and the woefully inadequate access to market creates a crisis within a crisis.</span></b><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"> While worrying about the safety of the people who work with me on the farm, I have had to contend with the complete loss of both my restaurant sales as well as all of my events--- An amount that represented between 35 and 40% of my total revenue target for 2020! This is farming country! What happens now has implications for years to come!”<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: #201f1e; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Dan Sullivan of Rosehall Run in Prince Edward County, comments of the hardships facing wineries and puts much of the blame on an archaic and unfair tax system.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: #201f1e; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">“…<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">this business is hard. But there are some parts that could be made easier, starting with eliminating punitive taxation. These are holdovers from nearly a century of neo-prohibitionist government policy.</span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #201f1e; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">It is nearly impossible to plan your next steps forward without a clear vote of confidence from our legislators and a willingness to put us on equal footing with international counterparts in their home markets. Stop taxing us like we are a foreign product in the biggest channel that matters-the LCBO and grocery/private retail...”<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #201f1e; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">If wineries (many of which are for sale and only conglomerates can afford) are to survive, something has to give.<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>Auciello would like to see a reduction in taxes and also a reduction in charges for the use of geographic terms. Caroline Granger says that investment in the region has slowed due to the difficulties of both taxation and Pandemic: “Government after Government has been told that this could be remedied at least in part!”<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Del-Gatto wants the wineries to be given a fair chance!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Ontario wineries have a historic legacy that go beyond just wine. Richard Johnston’s “By Chadsey’s Cairns”, Henry of Pelham and The Grange all have historic reference that goes back to the United Empire Loyalists and beyond. Just on that fact, they are living history which deserves to have a better “shake” by those who govern them.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Yet in spite of it all the challenges, they stay! Tony Auciello who had his winery for sale decided to stay. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">“I have given blood, sweat and tears and am passionate about my art. I can’t give it up!”<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Patrick Del-Gatto could have called it quits years ago when hail almost destroyed his crop, illness hit the family and funds were not available! However, blame it on personal faith or fate itself but one day when all seemed lost, he was working on the tractor in the middle of the vineyard when his tractor stopped dead! <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">“OMG! What now?” He said to himself almost in tears! At that moment! Out of what seemed like “thin air”, thousands of Dragon Flies surrounded the machine. He remembered that his father loved these insects.<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>He named the resulting wine “Dragon Fly”! <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Caroline Granger sums it up neatly!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">“The <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">difficulty in making a living from a winery has slowed investment in the region in the last few years but I still believe in the terroir the beautiful soils that give rise to interesting vintages year after year letting my daughter and I capture each season in a bottle. There are oceans of wine but on my farm at The Grange we have a small drop that is unique.” <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Regardless of all the challenge, inconvenience, problems---the Passion survives!<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">“I want to work wherever I can kick dirt!” <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">I think that Tony Auciello, Patrick Del-Gatto, Caroline Granger and the many winemakers all over Ontario, struggling to make a living out of the soil, will agree! <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;"><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">*Post Script<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">When I was in Brazil’s wine country, I tasted some magnificent wines made with pride and artistic flair. Yet, many Brazilians looked down on those wines due to the mere fact that they were -----Brazilian.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Many in Ontario have that same attitude. Local is not taken seriously. <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">So very wrong when time and again Ontario and Canada have proven not to be only good but to have bested some of the best the World has to offer. Support local! By supporting your wineries and their wine we can help our wineries excel and prosper!<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">Go to your wine regions and try the superb Pinot Noirs, Cabernet Francs, Chardonnays, Rieslings and Sauvignon Blancs that are made at your doorstep.<u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;">The Grange of PEC produces some fine Pinot Noir (Diane’s Block my favourite); Del-Gatto Estates Pinotage (Amazing!), Rosehall Run’s Ceremony Sparkling, (superb) and Ziraldo Estate Icewine (Magnificent wine from the man who started the Boutique Winery movement in Canada). It’s okay to enjoy non domestic wine but give Ontario a fair shake also! <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> <u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u></span></span></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 1pt none windowtext; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><u style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></u> </span></span></p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-17836003153775793862021-09-23T05:33:00.001-07:002021-09-24T17:23:16.485-07:00Vignobles de Larose and Crus Bourgeois<div style="text-align: left;"><b> Cru Bourgeois</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">In 1855 Bordeaux listed 60 chateaux in a price/quality classification named "Crus Classes" or "Classed Growths". This obviously left many chateaux out of the list. A list of chateaux that were considered just below (though some were obviously regarded as deserving of) "Classed Growth" status was developed in 1932. There were the usual controversies with deletions etc. but in 2020 a new list of 249 chateaux was developed. It will be revised in 2022. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Presently there are three classification tiers in the present Cru Bourgeois: Cru Bourgeois (179 Chateaux), Cru Bourgeois Superieurs, (56 Chateaux) and Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel (14 chateaux).</div><div style="text-align: left;">Incidentally, the term "Bourgeois" has been in use since the Middle Ages when residents of the Bourg (Burgh) of Bordeaux purchased the best land of Bordeaux and thus became known as Bourgeois.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Vignobles de Larose with CEO and Chief Winemaker, Franck Bijon </b> <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Larose Trintaudon 2014 Haut Medoc </b><b>Merlot</b><b> 51% Cabernet 45% Petit Verdot 4%</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>90/100 Points </b><b>Crus Bourgeois Superieur</b></div><div><b>Colour: </b>Dark red<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Hints of Cedar, dark fruit, dark chocolate, smoke and coffee</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Bone dry, medium bodied with firm tannins and long in length. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Still young and vibrant. Loads of fruit. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Matches: </b>Beef, Venison, Lamb. Beef with Barley Stews. <b> </b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Larose Trintaudon 2018 Haut Medoc Merlot 50%, Cab Sauv. 45%, Petit Verdot 5%</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>92/100 Points Cru Bourgeois Superieur </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Dark red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Ripe, dark fruit such as black berry/currants, coffee, chocolate</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Dry, medium to full Body, nice tannin, fresh acidity and very long length</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Delicious now but will certainly improve for years, amazing wine!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Matches: </b>Similar to above but would also include poultry such as Roast Turkey. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Larose Trintaudon General Comments</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;">A 16 hectare vineyard was planted on land known as Trintaudon circa 1838 by Henry Delaroze who was owner of Chateau Gruaud Larose and Larose Perganson. By 1872 the estate had grown to over 300 hectares and had risen to Fifth Growth Classified Status although it was not included in the Classification of 1855. The imposing chateau was built in 1884.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Larose Trintaudon went on to win many medals in competitions but starting in the late 19th Century through the mid 20th Century it fell victim to various diseases and two world wars and not to mention the aspirations of an owner who tried unsuccessfully to turn it into a dairy farm. Needless to say the chateau and its vineyards were devastated.</div><div style="text-align: left;">The 1960's saw a resurgence of this property via the owners of the Spanish Marques de Cacares purchased it and revitalized the chateau and its vineyard, planting 175 acres and modernizing its cellar. Professor Emile Peynaud was hired as consultant. </div><div style="text-align: left;">The result is obvious. Chateau Trintaudon is now one of the largest estates. It created the Responsible Vineyards Charter and the first agricultural company in Europe to obtain CSR certification at the exemplary level. A leader in sustainable farming, Trintaudon continues to be a great example of what can be done when all things such as employees, animals, plants, vines, environment and wine are treated in a sustainable and fair way.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Arnauld </b> <b>2012 Haut Madoc Cabernet Sauvignon 64%, Merlot 36% </b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>90/100 Points </b><b>Cru Bourgeois Exceptionel</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Very dark Red </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Mushroom, smoke, tobacco, black fruit, burning leaves, forest floor</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Full bodied and still powerful, tannin still strong but loosening giving way to suppleness yet indicate still potential developmental Integrated with Long finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Matches: </b>A wine for game such a venison, moose, boar. Can be a super match with 16 oz (500 gms) bacon wrapped Filet Mignon. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>An exceptional wine showing no sign of slowing down. Could develop for several more years though delicious now. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Arnold</b> <b>2018 Haut Madoc Cabernet Sauvignon 49%, Merlot 45%, Petit Verdot 6%</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>92/100 Points Cru Bourgeois Exceptionel</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Dark, Almost Purple </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Dark fruit, plum, blackberry, currant, figs, vanilla wood</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Full, powerful yet elegant, firm tannin is accessible but very capable of integrating with the flavours of this wine. The mouthfeel is full of soft silkiness that is full of ripe fruit. Very long length.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Matches: </b>For your best Filets, Roasts and Game. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>A wine to keep which will develop very well of the next few years. Classed growth quality!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Arnauld General Comments </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">One of the things that got me interested in wine is the exciting historic factor involved in various wineries and vineyards. Arnauld has all of these. The Priory of Arcins on which the land occupied by the Chateau is on, was host to many pilgrims travelling from various parts of Europe to Galicia, Spain seeking to see the body of the apostle Jacque (Saint James the Great, Christ's first apostle) which was discovered by a hermit called Paleyo in 813 AD. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Pilgrims came to the site at Santiago de Compostela in droves----many of them stopping for food and wine at the Priory and hosted by the Commanderie de Saint-John-de-Jerusalem (Knights Templar). Vines were planted and land was bought and turned to vineyards. Pierre Jacques Arnauld, a Bordeaux magistrate bought the Priory in the 17th Century and renamed it Chateau Arnauld. The property was sold in 1956 and was finally acquired by an international insurance company called Allianz in 2007 where much renovation and improvement has been made since. The same owner owns all of Vignobles de Larose. <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Domaine Perganson</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The story of Perganson begins with the French King's Advisor Jean-Pierre de Pontet purchased the plot of land that was to become Perganson in 1719. The thirst for French Claret by the English ensured that the vineyards of Perganson would prosper and they did. The land changed hands and name in the mid 19th century to become Chateau Larose Perganson. After the First World War saw the vineyards in the state of ruin and finally devastation when a series of business misadventures saw Perganson fall into total ruin where even the Chateau disappeared. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Moving ahead to the 1970's the Forner Family, now the owners of the "Chateau" and its sister Trintaudon, made new plantings and gave Perganson new life and purpose. By the time the Allianz Group (AGF) took over in 1986, it was an important property in both size and production. The Chateau Larose Perganson remains a singular entity with its own terroir and vineyard! The once important chateau which was regarded as Fifth Growth quality is now as it was.<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Domaine Perganson L'Experience 2019 Haut Madoc Cab Sauve 67%, Merlot 33%</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>91/100 points</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose</b>: Mixture of red berries such as strawberry and red currants, fresh floral aroma, herbal with pepper spice</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate</b>: Medium body, tight tannin, fresh mouthfeel with nice fruity, acid bite, some anise on the finish which shows good length.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Matches: </b>Definitely a wine that can be used with vegan dishes, cold cuts and grilled meat. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>This wine has no sulphites and is the culmination of many years of research. The wine is not barrel aged and unfined. Label carries the High Environmental Seal which is a voluntary effort by farmers to using practices to protect the environment. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Larose Perganson 2008 Haut Madoc Cab Sauve 50%, Merlot 45%, Petit Verdot 5%</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>90/100 points Cru Bourgeois Superieur </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Dark red with brown tinges, clear</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose: </b>Dark fruit, earth, mushroom, some oak, dark chocolate, violet floral as it evolves in glass</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Medium, still fresh with supple tannin and nice mouthfeel, vanilla wood, nice finish with an interesting red fruit finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Matches:</b> Roast Duck, Turkey, Roast Beef, Grilled Streak/Venison</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments: </b>Cru Bourgeois Superieur status in 2020. Since there is no actual chateau on the property, the wine cannot be considered a Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. The wine has excellent value per quality price and is capable of ageing very well. <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chateau Tour de Pez 2018 Haut Madoc Cab Sauve 24%, Merlot 65%, Cab Franc 11%</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>92/100 points Cru Bourgeois </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Colour: </b>Very<b> </b>Dark Red</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Nose</b>: Mixture of Dark and Red fruit. earth, vanilla nose, some floral violet</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Palate: </b>Full and round, nice mouth feel, accessible tannins and somewhat refreshing acid finish.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Food Match: </b>Filet Mignon, aged game, rabbit, roast beef, stew.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Comments</b>: Purchased by Vignobles Larose in 2019. Responsible Vineyard Management, Sustainable agriculture methods. Issued high quality environment certification. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></div>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-62175646552428588192021-07-24T14:00:00.015-07:002021-07-25T04:56:44.228-07:00These Wines Certainly Merited a Second Tasting! <p>Last week I had the pleasure of re-tasting several wines that I had tasted two years ago. The recent blends are a "new and Improved" version of the same. More often than not, second tastings can sometimes disappoint. This was not to be this case. The wines tasted in 2019 proved to be excellent but the second time was even better. Based on a Price per Quality ratio, these wines were excellent in value and could definitely challenge wines that were two to three times the price. To boot, these wines are all on the LCBO'S General Listing.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">OGGI Organic Pinot Grigio 2020</span></b> LCBO #19853 $13.95 Veneto, Italy 94 Points (2019, 90) </p><p><b>Colour: </b>Pale Yellow, Clear</p><p><b>Nose: </b>Floral, apple, banana, citrus, forest perfume.</p><p><b>Palate</b>: Medium to light body, fresh, zesty, clean, crisp finish</p><p><b>Food Matches:</b> Mussels, oysters, prosciutto, antipasti, salad (using wine as dressing)!</p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Angove Organic Chardonnay 2020</span> </b>LCBO #553859 $14.70 Australia 94 Points (2019, 90)</p><p><b>Colour</b>: Pale yellow-green, clear </p><p><b>Nose: P</b>each, melon, granny-smith apple, herbal spice, vanilla oak, citrus</p><p><b>Palate: </b>Medium body, fresh acidity, lemon citrus finish</p><p><b>Food Matches: </b>Antipasti, salmon/trout, roast pork, grilled vegetables.</p><p><b>Comments: </b>New Green Cap Closure signifies that this wine is vegan friendly. One can notice a bit more oak in the wine which adds to the flavour but does not take away any elegance. Value for money! </p><p><b style="font-size: large;">Caparzo Toscana Sangiovese 2019 </b>LCBO #361022 $13.95 Tuscany. 95 points (2019, 92)</p><p> <b>Colour:</b> Intense Ruby Red, Clear</p><p><b>Nose:</b> Ripe red and black cherries, hints of strawberries, blackberries, chocolate, cedar </p><p>Palate: Medium to full bodied, smooth tannin, well balance and integrated, long, smooth finish.</p><p><b>Food Matches:</b> Pasta, grilled meat, Italian sausage (hot or mild) and burgers</p><p><b>Comments:</b> This wine is worth at least twice the price if not more. Excellent on its own yet superb with food. Value such as this is not easily found. This wine reminds me of a good Brunello. While the price did influence my score, this wine is great at any price. Buy now while you have a chance to get it.</p><p> </p><p> </p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-21908513252632402432021-06-05T14:11:00.006-07:002021-06-05T15:04:34.144-07:00Casa Relvas Excels in Alentajo <p> <b>Alentejo---Portugal's Vast Region </b></p><p>Alentejo stretches from northern granite hills to southern plains to cliffside beaches in the southwest. The landscape is populated by vineyards, cork, oak olive and eucalyptus trees. Here one finds agriculture a major part of the economy where cattle, horses, pigs, sheep predominate. The hot summers and cool winters signify a Mediterranean climate with some Atlantic influence though due to varied topography temperatures may vary. It does get cold enough to snow in Alentejo but infrequently. </p><p> <b>Casa Relvas</b></p><p>Casa Relvas is the general umbrella which all the Relvas businesses are included the initial thrust was with Herdade Sao Miguel and later <b> </b>Herdade da Pimenta. Casa Relvas is a family affair with Alexandre Senior at the head followed by his two sons Alexandre Jr. and Antonio. Both sons are well versed in the vine with educational degrees from Bordeaux. </p><p><b> Herdade Sao Miguel</b></p><p>I have had the pleasure of visiting Alentejo sveral times and twice was the guest of Alexandre Relvas at his Herdade Sao Miguel. Sao Miguel has an expansive region of Olive and Cork groves along with many vines.. Here began Alexandre's Sr.'s mission with the vine! In 1997/98 he planted 98 hectares (244 acres) of cork trees and some 35 hectares (86 acres) of domestic vines along with olive groves in 2016. The result of his "project" has resulted in a highly successful venture of over 300 hectares (742 acres) of olive groves and 350 Hectares (865 acres) of vine in several areas. Grape Varieties: Trincadeira, Aragonez, Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Nacional. </p><p> </p><p><b>Herdade da Pimenta</b></p><p>Herdade da Pimenta has been part of the Relvas business since 2001 with a first harvest in 2007. It's its location is also the headquarters of Casa Relvas and housed within an ultra modern building that has received many accolades for its design and technology from around the world. The Herdade itself consists of 150 hectares (371 acres). of vines. <b>Grape Varieties</b>:: Trincadeira, Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca (Red) and Arinto, Viognier, Antao Vaz </p><p><b>Note: </b>Due to demand of its wine and other products, other vineyards are rented and managed by the team members. </p><p><b>Alexandre Relvas Jr. . </b>I met young Alex on my first visit to Portugal's Alentejo and stayed at Sa o Miguel for several days. I found the young man who was barely in his teens to be extremely inquisitive with an insatiable desire to learn. On my subsequent trips I made sure I visited Sao Miguel. Alex certainly was his father's son as his knowledge, responsibility and capable talent proved to have grown by leaps and bounds. No father could be prouder served. Alex has turned into a passionate wine maker and capable director.</p><p><b>Nuno Franco </b>Nuno was the very first member of the team Sao Miguel that I met. It was in Toronto at an agency called Hobbs & Co. Margaret Hobbs had invited me to meet an up and coming winemaker/consultant from Portugal and wanted me to taste his wine. Little did I know that I was on the verge of a great adventure which albeit started some years later but set in motion that day. Nuno is one of the gentlest and politest persons winemaker or not, that I have ever met. His gentle nature overpowers one as he describes his wines and reveals his amazing talent for making one of this planet's superb wine. The last time I saw him was at the Pimenta Winery where we tasted some of its fine wine. On this occasion I did myself a big favour and just listened to Nuno do his magic. That was in 2012 and the time has come to meet again.</p><p><b>Wines at the LCBO </b></p><p><b>Herdade Sao Miguel 2017 Vintages #17515 </b></p><p><b>Grape: </b>Touriga Nacional <b>Region: </b>Alentejo 93/100 points $21.95 <b>Colour: </b>Red, clea<b>r</b> N<b>ose</b>: Black Cherry, plum and blackberry with nuances of anise, chocolate <b>Palate: </b>Full, Sumptuous with superb long finish. Good now but so much better in one or two years <b>Note: </b>Stock almost out so check store listings. New supply coming for December.</p><p><b>Herdade da Pimenta 2018 Vintages# 445114 </b> 91/100 points <b> </b>$19.95<b> Grape: </b>Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon<b> Colour: </b>Dark Red, clear <b>Nose: </b>Dark Fruit, chocolate, anise <b>Palate</b>: Round, firm and full with pleasant but prominent tannin and a finish of concentration. N<b>ote</b>: Wine is showing good now but will benefit from at least another year of aging. Will continue to develop for several years after. Great price for this level of wine. This wine has a strong blend of the first three grapes listed and has the additional international grapes for added flavour blend. The 2019 will just have the initial three in the blend.</p><p><b>Both wines are available through Noble Estates <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Ubuntu; font-size: 16px;">(905) 943-7272 </span> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Ubuntu; font-size: 16px;">3000 Steeles Ave East Suite 203</span></b></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Ubuntu; font-size: 16px;"><b>Markham , ON L3R 4T9</b></span> </p><p><b>Email : </b><a href="mailto:orders@nobleestates.com" style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-family: Ubuntu; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; outline-offset: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.5s ease 0s;"><b>orders@nobleestates.com</b></a></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p> <b> </b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p> </p><p><b><br /></b></p><p> </p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-44848790514978215022021-05-23T19:23:00.003-07:002021-05-24T18:29:27.372-07:00Viva Portugal!<p> <b><span style="font-family: arial;">Portugal's Diverse Viticulture</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Portugal<b> </b>is smaller in size than many other countries. For example; The Canadian province of Ontario is 12 times its size and France is 6 times larger. However what Portugal lacks in size it makes up for in its demographic, geographic and culinary diversity. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Stretching north to south----its outer edge shores follow along the Atlantic Ocean in the West, Mediterranean Sea in the South and Spain in the North and East. The Tagus River separates the northern from the southern parts of Portugal and also acts as a divide between the mountainous and hilly north from the rolling and sandy plains of the south. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Portugal's geography is quite variable thus, its wine regions are equally so. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Algarve </b> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Situated in the South of Portugal is a wine region known for its Mediterranean Climate, beautiful beaches and almost endless sunlight (3000 hrs). The Serra de Monchique mountains that run between Alentejo and Algarve block the hot, dry winds from Alentejo and allows the moderating effects of both the Atlantic to the West and Mediterranean to the South. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Sand, clay, limestone and schist make up the soil.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Traditional grape varieties range from <b>White Grapes</b>: Siria (Roupeiro), Malvasia, Arinto and Monteudo (table grape) to <b>Red Grapes</b>: Periquita (Castelao), Tinta Negra. However a host of international grapes have become common. These include Trincadeira, Alvarinho, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Syrah, Tempranillo (Aragones) and Touriga Nacional.. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Alentejo </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Some of my best Portuguese memories stem from my visits to the Alentejo region. Alentejo is a large viticultural that covers roughly one third the size of Portugal. The climate is Mediterranean with hot summers and mild winters where summer temperatures can climb high into the 40's Celsius. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Topography varies from sandy plains and hilly areas to mountains near Spain. Soils are varied from granite and marble to schist to limestone and clay. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once again there are a group of traditional grape varieties. <b>White Grapes: </b>are headed by the Antao Vaz which is grown mainly in Alentejo and is followed by Arinto and Roupeiro (Siria) . There are alao number of native white blending grapes used such Diagalves, M<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px;">anteúdo, Perrum and Rabo de Ovelha. A point of interest is that he Perrum has been genetically linked to the Mission Grape of California..</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">Among the <b>Red Grapes</b>: Aragonez (Tempranillo) seems to be the predominant variety planted in this area, Alfrocheiro, Castelao (Periquita) and Trincadeira follow suit. International grapes such as Alicante Bouschet, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon are successfully being produced to make fine wine. My favourite by far is the Syrah by Herdade Sao Miguel.followed by those of Esporao.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">Alentejo is very popular in Portugal and highly regarded as a go to for quaffing wine and serious long term wine. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><b>Lisboa</b></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">Until not too long ago, the wine region of Lisboa was known as Estremadura but was renamed "Lisboa" to avoid confusion with the Spanish wine region of Extremadura as well as to associate the name of the wine region with the Portuguese capital city of Lisbon. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">The wineries of Lisboa feature many relics of ancient times such as Etruscan water ways and Roman ruins. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">Lisboa stretches south to north (just west of the city of Lisbon) along the .Atlantic coastline to Bairrada. While Lisboa produces the most wine of any region from a wide variety of grapes both domestic and international, the coastal area is subject to a great deal of wind which affects the ripening of grapes. Hills and mountains inland do provide some escape and make viticulture a whole heap easier. There are 9 regional subdivisions most important being Alenquer, Aruda, Bucelas and to a point Obidos which makes great sparkling wines. Other regions either make little wine or are resigned to making brandy or low alcohol whites.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">Soil composition is mainly sand or Limestone in the north.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Generally speaking the main <b>White Grapes</b> of Lisboa are : Arinto, Fernao Pires, Malvasia,Seara-Nova,and Vital. <b>Red Grapes</b> are: Alicante Bouschet,, Aragonez (Tempranillo), Castelao (Periquita)), Tinta Miuda, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, and Trincadeira..International grapes such as Chardonnay (White) and Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon (Red) are also used.</span> </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;"><b>Tejo</b></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">Between Lisboa and Alentejo is the Tejo Region. Tejo is historically significant since many Roman relics abound----some in the very vineyards/wineries that its fine wine is produced. This area was, until recently, called Ribatejo However, as a tribute to the namesake of this area -----the river Tagus-----the name was changed to Tejo with one exception, that being, labels for the generalized basic regional wine (VR) have the Tejo designation while the higher (DOC) label designation has the Ribatejo name on the label.<b> </b></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">To the north one finds clay, limestone and schist while in the south the soils are sandy and poor. Alluvial soils along the Tagus allow for good drainage. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Grape types include <b>White Grapes: </b></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: justify;">Fernão Pires, </span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: justify;"> </span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: justify;">Arinto, </span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: justify;">Alvarinho</span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: justify;"> and Verdelho</span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><b> Red Grapes:</b> Touriga Nacional, Trincadeira, Castelao, Aragones and Alfrocheiro.</span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; text-align: justify;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial; text-align: justify;"><b>Setubal Peninsula</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; text-align: justify;">Situated directly south of Lisbon and across the river Tagus, this wine region was once known as Terras do Sado due to the Sado river flowing just south of it. The topography is basically flat land though a small southern chain of mountains known as Serra da Arrabida cuts across the south. With the exception of the limestone and clay in the hills, the soil is basically sandy. Wine grown in the Arrabida hills is mainly sweet and succulent---made from Muscat of Alexandria grapes. The wine is fortified and comes under the Setubal DOC quality control while another DOC, Palmela seems to be particularly good at red grapes such as Castelao. Both DOC areas do grow various other vines vines such as <b>Setubal ----White Grapes: </b></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #444444;">Antão Vaz, Arinto, Fernão Pires, Malvasia Fina, Roupeiro Branco and Verdelho </span><span style="color: #333333; text-align: justify;"> <b>Red Grapes: A</b></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #444444;">ragonez, Bastardo, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Trincadeira and, Moscatel Roxo</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; text-align: justify;"><b><span><span>Palmela</span>:</span><span> --------White Grapes: </span></b></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #444444;">Alvarinho, Loureiro, Pinot Blanc, Rabo de Ovelha, Roupeiro Branco, Sauvignon, Semillon,and Verdelho,<b> </b></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><span><b>Red Grapes: </b></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #444444;"><span>Alicante Bouschet, Bastardo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Tannat, Tinta Miúda, Tinto Cão, Touriga Nacional and Trincadeira.. I am sure that there is intermingling of various types of grapes in both DOC regions.</span></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Bairrada</b></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Bairrada is situated between the Dao Region and the Atlantic Ocean. The clay/limestone and sandy soils along with ample rainfall and a Mediterranean climate make Bairrada a haven for many grape varieties but one sticks out above all. The Curia region within <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Bairrada</span> is a lush oasis which has been known for its "thermal waters" since Roman times. It is here that I associate this region with one man. It is here that Mr.Luis <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Pato</span> makes his fine wines and has become known as "Mr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Bairrada</span>" and "Mr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Baga</span> "for the grape he loves so much! Luiis is a living legend. His family have been <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">producing</span> wine at Quinta do <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Ribeirinho</span> since the 18<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">th</span> Century. . Mr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">Pato</span> exclusively has Portuguese grapes in his 65 hectare winery. The varieties he has re <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">Baga</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">Touriga</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">Nacional</span>, Maria <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">Gomes</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">Bical</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">Cerceal</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">Sercialinho</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">Arinto</span>. I found that this region is highly underrated when compared to other regions but when wines such as Baga are well made, they challenge any in the World!</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Dao</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In the North Eastern part of Portugal about one hundred miles inland of the Atlantic Ocean and just south of the Douro Area lies the Region of Dao. While demarcated as a wine region in 1908, sale of wine by growers was restricted to co-operatives which, while advantageous as a sure sale, negated any incentive to developing both a terroir based wine and private ownership pride. During the last few years and especially since the European Union came into existence there has been a major shift to private ownership and a strong move towards local, terroir driven wine. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>The wines of Dao now more than ever reflect the unique sub-regions each with its own added micro climates. Due to this emphasis similar grape varieties can differ from concentrated, bold wines to soft elegant ones; from wines of floral and herbal characteristics to those of power and earth. Much does depend on the winemaker's style but the terroir will dictate how far he could go.</span><br /><span>Sandy soils consisting of Granite seem to dominate in Dao with Schist outcroppings in some areas. Granite is igneous, crust rock which is reflective of the surrounding mountains in Dao. Schist is a metamorphosed rock which used to be layered sedimentary deposits of either organic substances or other rocks. Sand soil formed mostly by weathering covers the deposits. </span><br /><span>Vines grown on granite soils produce light, elegant wines while vines grown on schist and slate can be denser and have a higher concentration with less acidity. The soils for the most part are well drained. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Surrounded by mountains, Dao is protected from the cold, winds and rain. The fact that Dao is a high mountainous region means that the night time temperatures tend to be cool thus allowing for slow ripening and good acidity making the wines elegant and capable of age. Many of the vines are over a century old and thus produce fine wine of concentration. As in Bairrada, Dao is underrated and capable of challenging the best anywhere. This allows for Dao to be very reasonable in price at local stores. Here one of the stars of Dao is the White grape Encruzado which makes excellent quaffing wines as well as top notch dinner wine. Other W<b>hite Grapes: </b>Bical, Cercial, Verdelho, Rabo de Ovelha and Malvasia Fina. I also noticed some wineries using Fernao Pires. <b>Red Grapes:</b> Include, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo, Aragones), Alfrocheiro Preto, Jaen, with some Bastardo and Baga!<b> </b> </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Vinho Verde</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Green is what you expect from the descriptive "Green Wine" that is used for this area. Green however, does not refer to the wine as much as the lush, green area that lies between the Douro and Minho rivers. Wine has been made in this lovely region from the times of Ancient Rome and has continued to be an influence in the world. As a matter of fact, when people mention Portuguese wine, after Port, Vinho Verde seems to be the name that crops up most! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Vinho Verde wines are known for their freshness and fine acidity. This is owed partially to the cool and wet climate. Because of this the vines are low trained on wires to give the grapes more exposure to the Sun. Prior to this the vines were grown in the form of Pergolas which really did not give them a chance to ripen. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The flavour and style of the wine produced here depends on the grape used. The <b>White Grapes</b> include the Loureiro---floral wines; Trajadura---flinty/steel; Arinto----mineral; Avesso----creamy and Alvarinho---soft and fragrant.<b> Red Grape </b>Vinhao tends to be dark and acidy. In general the main wines from Vinho Verde tend to be white, light, aromatic with a slight fizz on the palate. While grapes are a main attraction, there are some historic wineries in this region. When in this region some years ago I was fortunate to visit a couple of these grand estates.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> Q<strong>uinta</strong> <strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">Da</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">Aveleda</span></strong><strong></strong> Quinta <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">da</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">Aveleda</span> has been in the same family since the 11<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">th</span> Century. The estate has a unique garden with many interesting sites. Some of these sites are called "Follies" which are named for buildings and additions made by various members of the family through the years. There are gates, houses, ponds, statues, goat houses and even a window from the home of Henry the Navigator(Prince Henry) in the very large and spacious garden. The house is very large and also a historic piece. We had supper there and also tasted some of the fines wines of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_44">Aveleda</span> with cheese that is made on the farm. Since my visit there have been further acquisitions by the family in charge. .</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Casa de Sezim</b> The original building dates back to the 14th Century. The oldest part of it was built in 1390 and goes back in ownership to a companion of the then King of Portugal. The decor is quite impressive and of course all the rooms and gardens which adorn the estate have a story which involves brushes with antiquity. The whole area wreaks history. One thing that I didn't count on while staying at the Quinta was an evening of some special phantom noises that was said to come from the spirit world!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Keeping in mind that there are 9 subdivisions the Vinho Verde Region, there are many such places to tantalize the historical mind and these two should give you an idea of the wealth of history that exists in Vinho Verde and, in fact, all of Portugal!</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Tavora-Varosa</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Bordering Douro and Dao to the north and south respectively is the mountainous region of Tavora-Varosa. I haven't visited this area but from what I can research. The soil is of granite/schist composition in a continental climate. That in addition to a high land allows the grapes to retain acidity which is beneficial to the making of Sparkling wine. Malvasia Fina, Cerceal (Sercial, Cercial), Fernao Pires, Gouveio and Bical are the <b>White Grapes </b>while Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinto Roriz (Tempranillo) and Tinto Barroca are the major<b> Red Grapes! </b>Due to the potential for making fine sparkling wine, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have been planted in the region.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Tras-Os-Montes </b> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A similar area to the above with high continental climate and similar oils and vines.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Beira Interior</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is a region in evolution. Mountainous, continental in climate with mainly granite and some schist soils. The harsh weather results in very hot summers and very cold winters. The white<b> </b>wine <b> </b>tends to be aromatic and light in body while the red wine<b> </b>is complex with high spice and fruit. The predominant <b>White Grapes</b> are Arinto, Fonte Cal, Malvasia, Rabo de Ovelha e Siria with the <b>Red Grapes </b>being, Bastardo, Marufo, Tinto Roriz, Rufete and Touriga Nacional. Wine production is taken seriously here and the result will be surprisingly challenging wines. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Azores</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Azores are a group or 9 volcanic islands---four of which, Pico, Sao Miguel and Terceira and Graciosa have vineyards. They are situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean some 1400 km from Portugal, 2000 km from Canada and 1500 km from Morocco. The climate is mild and wet. The soil is dark and very fertile volcanic. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">These islands may have been discovered by seafarers under the command of Prince Henry the Navigator. There are several theories of their discovery ranging from seeking shelter from a storm to being shipwrecked on one of the islands but regardless, the islands were claimed for Portugal and served initially to allow sheep to roam and develop as a food source for passing ships. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A World Heritage Site, Pico is by far the most famous of the wine islands. It has a unique method of viticulture whereby stone walls are erected and protect the planted vines from salt spray carried by the wind and the weather itself. Like the rest of the Azores, the soil is volcanic in origin ----in fact the process is still going on with some cities such as Furnas, in Sao Miguel, in the centre of a volcanic crater which still shows much activity.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Wine grape varieties reflect the Portuguese and Eastern European influences with <b>White Grapes:</b> Terrantez, Arinto, Verdelho, Boal and Fernao Pires. International varieties such as Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer and Riesling are also present. Red Grapes: include Tempranillo (Aragones), Saborinho (Molar, Negra Mole, Tinta de Madeira etc.) as well as International varieties such as Syrah, Merlot, Sirah and Cabernet. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>If in Sao Miguel lookup Quinta da Jardinete and if in Pico visit the Azores Wine </span><span>Company and Cooperativa Vitivinicola da Ilha do Pico where making of that superior Terras do Lava red, white and rose occurs! </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span><b>Douro Wine Region</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Douro wine making history goes back to the Roman era if not earlier. This region is located some kilometres upstream from Oporto. Its main product has been the production of Port owing to the fact that ever since the mid 17th Century, fortified Port wine has been shipped via Oporto to England. In 1756, this region became so important to the economy of Portugal that the Douro Region was demarcated by a royal charter for the making of Port wine. Douro is a World Heritage Site!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>Also known as Alto Douro, this region is sheltered from the Atlantic influences by mountain ranges. The climate is continental with hot, dry summers and cold winters. It has three subdivisions:</span><span>Baixo Corgo, Cima Corgo and Douro Superior. While Douro Superior is expanding, Cima Corgo is known for its quality wine. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Soil is basically schist/shale with some granite. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">While known for its Port companies, Douro non fortified grapes now have a strong following and can compete with the World's best. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Grape Varieties </b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Red Grapes:</b> Bastardo, Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo and/or Aragones), Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional. <b>White Grapes: </b>Gouveio, Malvasia Fina, Rabigato, Viosinho, Moscatel Galego and Donzelinho.<b> </b> </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Oporto</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>Portugal's Wine Start Journey Started Here! </strong>Some years ago I visited this fabulous region.<strong> </strong> It was thrilling to be in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Oporto</span> or Porto, the city where the Douro met the Atlantic. This was where it started all! Ships carrying their cargo of Port to England. Finding out that the liquid in the barrel improved after being on a ship for so long. The British <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">developed</span> a taste for this precious and founded a number of companies which began making it and shipping it to the island. The rest as they say is history! Speaking of history, Porto was known as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Portus/</span> Cale in the time of Rome and was captured by the Moors in the Eighth Century. It was an important location and was the subject of many occupations through the centuries. Port is also famous for being he birthplace of Prince Henry or Henry the Navigator. According to history books, Port started shipping wine around 1678. <strong>The City</strong> Port does not just ship wine. It ships many other items such as cork, olive oil, fruits, building materials, cotton, silks and wool. It is a lovely place to visit with its many landmarks and also the many port houses along the Douro river. Port boats can be seen sailing around the river with barrels on board---simulating the trips to the port houses from the vineyard destinations. I could see the names of the houses across the landscape horizon as we looked across the river and also onto our side of the shore. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Ferreira</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Warres</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Sandeman</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Taylors</span> and more were all prominently featured amidst the buildings and homes that made up the city. I was surprised to see how clean and well kept this port city was. I was also amazed at the effect of floods on the city had during the many years. We visited House of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Sandeman</span> and could see the levels that various floods reached during the years the building had been there. In extreme years the floods could get as high as 12 feet above the normal river level. Indicators on the walls of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Sandeman</span> building "notch" the heights reached in various flood years. Flooding is not as much as a problem now due the the location of various dams up the Douro river. The climate of Porto is Mediterranean which means that summers are dry and hot and winters are rainy but mild. The temperature seldom reaches zero <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Celsius</span>. <strong>Sandeman</strong>! The name <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Sandeman</span> should be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">synonymous</span> with "First". <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Sandeman</span>, was probably the first person to make use of the Coffee Houses that littered London in the late 18<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">th</span> Century as a place to develop a Port Company. This Scotsman from Perth borrowed $300 pounds at Tom's Coffee House to begin the journey that still is going on now. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Sandeman</span> was also the first to use a Brand name on a cask using the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">GSC</span> (George <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Sandeman</span> & Company) in 1805. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Sandeman</span> became also the first company to register a trademark in 1877 and the first to export bottled labelled wines (1880). Advertising was the next. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Sandeman</span> was among the first to advertise in 1905 and in the late 1920's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Sandeman</span> commissioned an artist, George <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Massiot</span> Brown, to paint a logo and the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">silhouette</span> of "The Don" was born. It was the first iconic logo for a wine. In 2002, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Sandeman</span> joined the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Sogrape</span> Group and the story goes on! <strong>Tour</strong> I was met with by a lovely and charming young lady, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Ligia</span> Marques who gave me a tour of the facilities. The museum was quite interesting with an array of labels, stamps, documents and historical <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">paraphernalia</span> concerning the company. We then went into the Barrel Cellar where casks of port slept. The company library with bottles of Port, some over one hundred years old, were kept. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Ligia</span> then arranged a meeting and a tasting with none other than the Chairman of the House of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">Sandeman</span>---7<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">th</span> Generation <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Sandeman</span>---George <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Sandeman</span>. <strong>The Tasting With George <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">Sandeman</span> </strong>The true expression of a person who is great is how gracious and humble he seems. We were very impressed by this persons "down to earth" attitude and easy, gentle manner. His main pleasure and pride is that his company has given so much pleasure to people. He went on to describe several of his ports and match them to various foods such as his <strong>Founders' Reserve </strong>with cheese or pecan pie On his <strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">Sandeman</span> 20 Year Tawney</strong>, it is fruit such as peaches or blue cheese. <strong>Vintage</strong> <strong>Ports</strong> such as the fabulous <strong>2000 or 2007</strong> would be great with chocolate mousse or sweet fruit such as figs or salty creamy cheese or Stilton. A <strong>White Port</strong> is also available and is a pale yellow colour and can be served with such foods as cheese, creamy fish soups, white chocolate and fruit. There are various types of Port that are suitable to various tastes and budgets. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">Sandeman</span> goes well with many foods. Other products such as Sherry, Brandy and Madeira are also produced. The question arises: "If it were not for Oporto and Port, would Portugal be as famous a wine country. I think we know the answer!.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Madeira </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As with the Azore Islands Madeira's "Discovery" was (is) credited to sailors under the command of Prince Henry circa the early 15th Century. Its subtropical, warm and rainy weather especially in winter makes wine making rather difficult due to the onset of disease. Vineyards are small and trellised. They are planted on man made terraces. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As with many other products, the making of today's Madeira was an accident of coincidence and necessity! In the 17th Century Madeira was a stop-over for ships sailing to other colonies. The ships would pick up wine which was unfortified in the Island however the wine did not last the voyage well. To improve its lasting power, it was fortified with brandy (much like Port). The composition of wine however changed somewhat owing to the heat and movement within the ship. Wine that made a "round trip" thus was quite different in taste than when it started. Customers such as the Dutch East India Company however preferred this taste.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Methods of preparing this wine without the necessary trips were invented (special heating rooms) and the present drink was produced.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Grapes used in special styles and blends are: Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, Malvasia and Tarantez. most common grapes used for making Madeira are Negra Mole and Complexa. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span>Word of Warning </span></b><span> </span></span></p><p><span><span style="font-family: arial;">If one wants to drive to any producers or as a tourist make sure you hire a guide and better still one with a car. Driving in Madeira is tough with narrow roads and many bumps. If you drive---be careful!</span></span></p><p><span><span style="font-family: courier;"><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span style="font-family: courier;"> </span></span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"> </span> <b> </b></p><p> </p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8791395063625223214.post-79413827073573794092021-04-15T18:33:00.002-07:002021-04-18T05:18:50.866-07:00These Spanish Wines Are Truly Unique <p> All wines have a history with some going back eons. Spain has always been a leader in the making of unique wines and the two wineries being described here today are no difference. They come to us with a colourful history and of course, delicious wines.</p><p><b>Reserva de la Tierra "Curious" White Wine 100% Sauvignon Blanc</b> <b> $13.95 92/100 points</b></p><p>Region: Castilla-La Mancha</p><p>Colour: Pale yellow, clear and bright. </p><p>Nose: Ripe white fruit such as peach, apricot, citrus, herbal straw </p><p>Palate: Light body, citrus lemon, refreshing acidity with lasting clean finish. Charming. </p><p>Notes: The seeds of Reserva de la Tierra were planted 70 years ago in Argentina by the parents of Felipe Gimenez, emigrants from Spain decided to put their wine knowledge to use and produce vineyards in Spain. This wine comes from Castilla-La Mancha region (Remember "Man of La Mancha"?) in the heart of Spain.. Its wines are known as Vino de la Tierra and have a quality of indication rating just below the Denominaciones de Origen Protegidas category (DOP). The IGP rating or Indicaciones Geografikas Protegidas is used throughout this region. .The name "Curious" comes from the young winemaker called Maria who had a passion for making wines and very curious as to making innovative wine that was different. </p><p>Food: Tilapia, prosciutto, light meat and light salads or on its own on a warm summer's eve! </p><p><b>Ana de Heras Cordon 100% Viura grapes $19.95 93/100 points</b></p><p>Region: Rioja</p><p>Colour: Golden, bright and clear</p><p>Nose: Pear, peach, apricot with touch of citrus</p><p>Palate: Medium body, silky smooth, with fresh citrus finish.</p><p>Notes: The winery goes back to the 19th Century with a pause in production during the Spanish Civil War in the 1930's. In 1995 new winery and cellars were built. The Viura grape is also called Macabeo picked young wine made from .the grapes have a citrus taste but wine from grapes picked older tend to taste oaky. Viura is mostly associated with Spain's Rioja wine region. </p><p>Food: Shellfish, oily fish such as salmon, mushroom rice, stuffed egg plant or on its own. </p><p>These wines are available through "The Case For Wine" 416-482-0241 in Pickering, ON. </p><p> </p><p> </p>Chuck Byers - Wine Consultanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01394891451608334348noreply@blogger.com