Monthly Picks: January 2011

Quinta Da Garrida 2006 Vinho Tinta (Dao) Portugal - $12-17
Savoury, smoky and earthy in character with some dark berry fruit notes on both the nose and palate. Very smooth with well-structured medium tannins and acidity. A moderate-plus finish with lingering spicy-oak.
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Xanadu Wines 2007 Next of Kin Cabernet Sauvignon (Margaret River) Western Australia - $15
Good concentration of cassis, dark cherry, vanilla and earth characters on the bright nose and well-balanced palate.
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Stag's Hollow Winery 2009 Sauvignon Blanc (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - $19
Crisp, yet juicy citrus fruits of grapefruit and lemon dominate the nose and palate of this refreshing, pale straw coloured wine. Dry, with just enough residual sugar (2 g/l) to tame the austere acidity and mineral notes nicely.
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Young and Wyse Collection 2009 Merlot (East Bench Osoyoos) Okanagan Valley - $20
Crushed dark berries dominate and provide the sweetness accompanied by warm stone aromas reminiscent of the desert-like conditions of Osoyoos itself.
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Altesino 2007 Rosso Tuscana (Montalcino) Tuscany - $23
This is a well balanced wine with structured tannins and good acidity. Pair this wine with braised meat dished like Osso Buco. Drinking beautifully now, don't cellar for long.
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Le Clos Jordanne Estate Wines 2007 Village Reserve Chardonnay (Vinemount Ridge) Niagara Peninsula - $25
A well-balanced, Burgundian recipe of oak, fruit on the edge of ripeness, silky textures and minerality. This is a good quality Chardonnay that is drinking beautifully now and will last another few years.
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Poplar Grove Winery 2007 Syrah (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - $30
This is a serious Syrah, dark and brooding, with a good expression of terroir and spicy pepper notes. Oak treatment enhances the nose and palate without overshadowing the fruit characters.
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Summerhill Pyramid Winery NV Cipes Rosé - 87pts

Summerhill Pyramid Winery NV Cipes Rosé (Kelowna) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and VQA stores
Cost: $29.95
Alcohol: 12%
Date Tasted: December 29th, 2010

Tasting Notes: A well balanced, fresh and vibrant Rosé sparkler with fine, persistent bubbles that delivers subtle cherry and tart cranberry characters and a touch of sweetness on the otherwise dry palate. Made in the traditional Champagne method with Pinot Noir grapes, the Cipes Rosé offers a nice mixture of fruity fun supported by an underlying richness which adds some depth and complexity. Gorgeous light cranberry hue makes for a lovely splash of colour on any table. Drink 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Lailey Vineyard 2006 Cabernet Franc - 87pts

Lailey Vineyard 2006 Cabernet Franc (Niagara-On-The-Lake) Niagara Peninsula - Ontario

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $25.20
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: August 1st, 2010

Tasting Notes: With an intense nose of barnyard, coffee, cured meats, mint, cherry and cedar aromas, there is plenty to appreciate when quaffing this Cabernet Franc middleweight from Niagara-on-the-Lake producer Lailey Vineyard. The dry palate offers similar flavours with added fruit notes from blueberries and plums. Medium-bodied with a fruitiness in the mouth and medium tannins. The finish is long, but what lingers is a disjointed bitterness when drunk on its own and, thankfully, is masked when paired with food.

The Lailey Cabernet Franc delivers good concentration and decent complexity for the price but can't quite compete head-to-head with the varietal releases from Stratus and Tawse. Pair with roasted red meats and turkey. Drink 2010-2012.
- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Majella Wines 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon - 89pts

Majella Wines 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (Coonawarra) South Australia - Australia

Availability: BCLDB stores
Cost: $39.99
Alcohol: 14.5%
Date Tasted: June 15th, 2010

Tasting Notes: A classic Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon from South Australia producer Majella Wines. An intense and elegant nose of cassis, eucalyptus, vanilla, oak, green pepper and spices. Followed by cassis, blueberry, vanilla, oak and mint flavours with medium-plus tannins and a smoky-textured, dry palate.

This is a solid wine that has aged nicely and presents great typicity for the region. Drink 2010-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Aces Okanagan Estate Winery 2008 Pocket Queens Chardonnay - 87pts

Aces Okanagan Estate Winery 2008 Pocket Queens Chardonnay (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: VQA stores
Cost: $18
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 300 cases
Date Tasted: Dec 11th, 2010

Tasting Notes: This un-oaked Chardonnay from Naramata Bench producer Aces Okanagan Estate Winery offers a fruity nose of pear and apples complimented by mineral notes and a touch of lees aromas. Happily, it's a fairly rich Chardonnay despite the lack of any oak contact during élevage. Concentrated flavours of pear, citrus and baked apples with some welcomed green-apple tartness mingle on the dry palate and create the rich texture and moderate-plus finish. Well made and very well priced at under $20. Drink 2010-2011.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Hugel et Fils 2005 Cuvée Tradition "Hugel" Muscat - 89pts

Hugel et Fils 2005 Cuvée Tradition "Hugel" Muscat (Riquewihr) Alsace - France

Availability: Limited. Specialty import
Cost: $25-30 est
Alcohol: 12%
Date Tasted: May 26th, 2010

Tasting Notes: From the cellar... Hugel et Fils have been making wine in Alsace since 1639 and miraculously remained family owned. They produce a number of levels of wine of which this Cuvée Tradition "Hugel" is the second of five. I brought this delicious and subtle Muscat back from a trip to Alsace in 2008 - I've not seen it listed in Canada.

Should you get hold of a bottle, you'll find a wine that blends citrus and mineral notes effortlessly. A medley of citrus aromas, grapefruit, lime and lemon, await on the medium intense nose which reveals layers of mineral and floral characters as it warms up. The dry palate has intense acid and a good continuity of flavours from the nose. The texture is light and playful. The finish is long with residual tartness. A very good quality wine indeed. Drink 2010-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Kilikanoon Wines 2005 Killerman's Run - 90pts

Kilikanoon Wines 2005 Killerman's Run (South Australia) Australia

Availability: BCLDB stores
Cost: $24.99
Alcohol: 15%
Date Tasted: August 15th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Classic Southern Australia characters of intense raspberry, eucalyptus, cedar, peppermint and spicy pepper aromas and flavours. Aging adds a complex bouquet of savoury fruit and nibs as a result of the intense fruit aromas having mellowed and developed. Same goes for the dry palate which avoids being over-extracted, or "jammy", and whose round tannins and medium-plus acidity support the fruit flavours. Yummy.

At five years of age this Shiraz is still fresh and suggests it will last another five, however, it's drinking great now and won't likely develop further, so why wait? Pair with grilled lamb chops with mint jelly. Drink 2010-2015.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Le Clos Jordanne Estate Wines 2007 Village Reserve Chardonnay - 88pts

Le Clos Jordanne Estate Wines 2007 Village Reserve Chardonnay (Vinemount Ridge) Niagara Peninsula - Ontario

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select LCBO stores and online retailers in the UK
Cost: $25
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: December 1st, 2010

Tasting Notes: The Village Reserve is a blend of Chardonnay grapes grown on multiple vineyard sites around the Jordan area of the Niagara Peninsula. Being the winery's entry-level Chardonnay its goal should be to entice the buyer to seek out the their more intricate (and expensive) wines by showcasing the house style and quality. This it does very well.

A well-balanced, Burgundian recipe of oak, fruit on the edge of ripeness, silky textures and minerality. This is a good quality Chardonnay that is drinking beautifully now and will last another few years. If you're intrigued about the hype that Le Clos Jordanne has generated and want to taste for yourself, this is a good wine to start with. Drink 2010-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Le Clos Jordanne Estate Wines 2007 Village Reserve Pinot Noir - 87pts

Le Clos Jordanne Estate Wines 2007 Village Reserve Pinot Noir (Vinemount Ridge) Niagara Peninsula - Ontario

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $25
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: December 2nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: This entry-level Pinot Noir from neo-Burgundian winery Le Clos Jordanne of the Niagara Peninsula offers a good assemblage of oak, earth and raspberry characters on the nose and palate. Chalky textured with a light-to-medium body, the wine has decent tannin structure paired with sharp acidity. The result is a wine who's balance is a bit off. Approachable with decanting, yet drinking a bit tight still despite three years of aging. I recommend cellaring another six months before opening. Drink mid-2011-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Averill Creek Vineyard 2009 Pinot Grigio - 88pts

Averill Creek Vineyard 2009 Pinot Grigio (Cowichan Valley) Vancouver Island - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here, BCLDB and VQA stores
Cost: $17.90 (BC), $24.95 (AB)
Alcohol: 12%
Production: 900 cases
Date Tasted: December 10th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Crisp texture, concentrated citrus fruit and refreshing acidity- everything you want from a Pinot Grigio. The only thing missing is a hot deck to enjoy it on. Ah, the tribulations of a white wine drinker in December. Stock-up and save some for next summer. In the meantime, enjoy this beauty as an aperitif to a big holiday meal. Nothing better to wake up your palate than a splash of a finely balanced citrus and mineral nectar.

One of the more impressive things about this Pinot Grigio is that it's not only about chilled-citrus-goodness. As the wine warms up in the glass many Pinot Grigio (un-oaked Pinot Gris, essentially) fall flat. The Averill Creek example offers layers of apricot and fig aromas as it warms in the glass - nice complexity for an otherwise straight-forward style of wine.

Averill Creek Vineyard is quietly becoming a provincial power in all things 'Pinot'. Producing a fine Pinot Noir and two of the best Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris (depending on the vintage) wines on the market. The Vancouver Island, Cowichan Valley winery is making a push to becoming more available in the Lower Mainland of BC and beyond by getting this excellent Pinot Grigio listed with the BCLDB stores. Many of the winery's products are also available in Alberta. Visit their website (link above) for more details on where to buy.
- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Road 13 Winery and Vineyards 2005 Fifth Element - 91pts

Road 13 Winery and Vineyards 2005 Fifth Element (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Sold out
Cost: $35-40
Alcohol: 13.7%
Date Tasted: December 14th, 2010

Tasting Notes: From the cellar... Originally released under the Black Arts banner from Golden Mile Cellars (now Road 13 Winery and Vineyards) this unique blend of 65% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc has an appealing, fragrant bouquet of dark berries, cherry, rich oak and spice aromas. The dry palate has aged effortlessly and shows no signs of peaking soon. The silky texture of juicy, ripe berry flavours gives way to fine tannins and strong acidity that propels a lingering finish of spice and savoury oak. This is both a delicate and meaty, fruit-forward red blend that is drinking beautifully now and will last for some time to come. Drink 2011-2014.

A quick comment on the labeling. Though I love the re-branding that Golden Mile Cellars went through to become Road 13, I do miss the old Black Arts printed bottles branding that the winery used on their top-end wines. The graphics were very attractive and properly separated the wines from the lower-level varietal releases and blends. Maybe Road 13 will go back to something similar one day.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Xanadu Wines 2007 Next of Kin Cabernet Sauvignon - 88pts

Xanadu Wines 2007 Next of Kin Cabernet Sauvignon (Margaret River) Western Australia - Australia

Availability: Widely available at BCLDB stores
Cost: $14.99
Alcohol: 14%
Date Tasted: June 29th, 2010

Tasting Notes: A solid, cool-climate Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River producer Xanadu Wines. Good concentration of cassis, dark cherry, vanilla and earth characters on the bright nose and well-balanced palate. Its only downfall is a lingering bitterness on the finish. However, this one fault is completely covered-up when served with food. Pair with BBQ ribs or spicy steak and your guests will think you poured the a 90-point wine - one that only cost you $15. Drink 2010-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Louis Latour 2007 Ardeche Chardonnay - 86pts

Louis Latour 2007 Ardeche Chardonnay (Vin de Pays des Coteaux de L'Ardeche) Burgundy - France

Availability: BCLDB stores
Cost: $12-14
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: May 8th, 2010

Tasting Notes: To find a bargain in Burgundy you have to look beyond Chablis, the Côte d'Or and even Mâcon to find truly great value for money. Vin de Pays Chardonnay can be hit and miss, but this little gem from Louis Latour is well worth the $12-14 you'll pay for it.

Fairly straight forward with ripe pear, lemon peel, orange zest and light mineral aromas on the medium intense nose. Followed by a well-balanced, medium-bodied, dry palate of orchard fruit and light oak flavours. Food-friendly with good acidity and a moderate finish. Not too complex, but easy drinking and very well priced. Drink 2010-2011.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Vive La Revolution 2007 Grenache - 85pts

Vive La Revolution 2007 Grenache (Vin de Pays d'Oc) France

Availability: Limited. Private wine stores
Cost: $15.99 (BC)
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: July 9th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Made from 100% Grenache grapes, this is a juicy textured, full-bodied Vin de Pays d'Oc AOC wine with dark fruit, barnyard, licorice and plum aromas on the nose. The dry palate offers dark cherry, licorice and warm earth flavours but lacks concentration, tannin structure and focus. Mouth watering acidity make it a good wine to serve with food like meet stews.

This wine will catch your eye on the shelves of your local private wine shop with its colourful and stylish label, but will you buy it again based on what's inside? Probably not. Drink 2010-2011.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Chakana 2009 Yaguarete Collection Syrah - 85pts

Chakana 2009 Yaguarete Collection Syrah (Mendoza) Argentina

Availability: BCLDB stores
Cost: $13-15
Alcohol: 14%
Date Tasted: December 9th, 2010

Tasting Notes: "I'd like a juicy, with a side-order of juicy please." "One Chakana Syrah coming right up sir!"

Add a touch of mint, dark berries and cherry cola and you've described the simple, but effective "Yaguarete Collection" Syrah from Chakana, a blended wine from multiple vineyard sites in the Andes mountains of Mendoza, Argentina. The concentration is a bit over-extracted and the finish is disappointingly short, but the flavours, texture and food-friendliness is satisfying. A decent wine for the price. Drink 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Altesino 2007 Rosso Tuscana - 90pts

Altesino 2007 Rosso Tuscana (Montalcino) Tuscany - Italy

Availability: BCLDB stores
Cost: $22.99
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: December 10th, 2010

Tasting Notes: This charming wine from Tuscany is a blend of 80% Sangiovese with the remaining 20% a mixture of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. It's a successful blend that delivers an impressively complex wine for the price. At times meaty and earthy, whilst offering a sweet fruity character that makes you forget its origin. Light cured meats, tomato stock, mushrooms, bell pepper, smoke, red berries and a touch of cranberry tartness make up the flavour profile.

The oak treatment is more prominent on the dry, light-to-medium bodied palate and grounds the juicy texture nicely. This is a well balanced wine with structured tannins and good acidity. Pair this wine with braised meat dished like Osso Buco. Drinking beautifully now, don't cellar for long. Drink 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Young and Wyse Collection 2009 Syrah - 87pts

Young and Wyse Collection 2009 Syrah (Osoyoos East Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and VQA stores
Cost: $22.90
Alcohol: 14.5%
Production: 957 cases
Date Tasted: December 11th, 2010

Tasting Notes: The nose of this tasty Syrah from Osoyoos producer Young and Wyse Collection is dark and brooding with medium-intense ripe black cherry, toasted oak, coffee bean and spice box aromas. It's not all doom and gloom however, as the nose is brightened with cherry cola and nib notes.

The dry, medium-bodied palate follows with similar, concentrated dark cherry and oak flavours and a bit more savoury spice character than on the nose. Easy-going tannins and acid provide a simple but effective structure while the moderate-plus finish lingers with pepper and clove spice.

This Syrah, as with many 2009's, is approachable in it's youth and shows the traits of a wine that will develop a bit over time. To make the most of your purchase, if you can be patient, I recommend giving the wine another 6-9 months in the bottle before opening. Drink mid/late 2011-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Summerhill Pyramid Winery 2007 Get To Know Series Merlot - 89pts

Summerhill Pyramid Winery 2007 Get To Know Series Merlot (Kelowna) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and VQA stores
Cost: $29.95
Alcohol: 15%
Date Tasted: December 9th, 2010

Tasting Notes: The "Get To Know" in the title refers to Summerhill's partnership with famed wildlife painter Robert Bateman's ‘Get to Know your Wild Neighbors’ non-profit society who have provided images for the labels and profit from the sale of the wines. The most impressive art involved, however, is in the handling of the massive 15% alcohol - the art of balancing a wine. Sure, the end result is still a touch "hot" but it's handled remarkably well, being obscured by the concentrated dark berries on the dry palate.

The nose of this certified organic wine has intense blackberry, vanilla, plum and candied, dried fruit aromas with toasted oak and Christmas Cake spice notes. This is followed by a continuity of flavours from the nose to the mouth starting as a New World, fruit-forward wine with the perception of sweet dark berries on the front palate. The wine finishes with the savoury and oaky character of an Old World Merlot. A fabulous juicy-mouth-feel-to-savoury-finish dichotomy of texture.

This wine has the tannins and acid to last and will peak in another 1-2 years. Nevertheless, it is drinking beautifully now. Drink early-2011-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 2009 Estate Pinot Noir - 86-87pts

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 2009 Estate Pinot Noir (Creston Valley) BC

Availability: Direct from winery here.
Cost: $24.99
Alcohol: 13.3%
Production: 100 cases
Date Tasted: November 26th, 2010

Tasting Notes: The medium intense nose offers a nice combination of juicy red fruit and savoury oak aromas. With all the Baillie-Grohman wines I've tasted of their inaugural 2009 vintage, the nose is always there, it's the palate where the youthful vines, planted in 2007, show their age. Especially with this Pinot Noir which has some nice spice and forest floor characters but lacks concentration and depth. However, the oak treatment comes to the rescue to add some needed complexity and structure. The result is a wine that shows great promise for future vintages and whose current release will make an excellent pairing for gamey meets and stews.

I recommend cellaring this wine for another 6-months before opening to allow it more time to gel. Drink mid-2011-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 2009 Blanc-de-Noir Rosé - 86pts

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 2009 Blanc-de-Noir Rosé (Creston Valley) BC

Availability: Direct from winery here.
Cost: $19.99
Alcohol: 13.7%
Production: 100 cases
Date Tasted: November 26th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Made in the traditional "Saignée" method ("bleeding" the colour from the skins) from 100% Pinot Noir grapes. Good colour with an enchanting nose of strawberry and rose petal aromas and a sweet, full-bodied palate full of fruity flavours and a touch of minerality. The 18 g/l of residual sugar may over-power most foods except the spiciest dishes but the wine will make it an excellent pairing for a hot deck next summer. Enjoy this wine in its youth. Drink 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Young and Wyse Collection 2009 Merlot - 88pts

Young and Wyse Collection 2009 Merlot (East Bench Osoyoos) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and VQA stores
Cost: $19.90
Alcohol: 14.2%
Production: 914 cases
Date Tasted: December 7th, 2010

Tasting Notes: There is a sweetness to the nose of this well-priced Merlot from Osoyoos winery Young and Wyse Collection which is so very pleasant to quaff. Crushed dark berries dominate and provide the sweetness accompanied by warm stone aromas reminiscent of the desert-like conditions of Osoyoos itself.

The dry palate delivers good continuity from the nose with concentrated, but not overdone, flavours of dark berries. The oak treatment, 11 months, is more prominent on the palate but has contributed vanilla and spice notes to the nose as well. The result is above average complexity and a New World Merlot that tastes more like a blend than a straight varietal wine.

The tannins and solid and smooth and the acid is balanced nicely with lingering tartness on the moderate finish - great for food. With an aggressive get-to-market timeline, winemaker Stephen Wyse has managed to produce a very drinkable wine and one that offers good value. However, I do recommend cellaring for 6 months or longer before opening. Drink mid-2011-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 2009 Pinot Gris - 88pts

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 2009 Pinot Gris (Creston Valley) BC

Availability: Direct from winery here.
Cost: $21.99
Alcohol: 14.2%
Production: 135 cases
Date Tasted: November 26th, 2010

Tasting Notes: A lovely, aromatic nose of perfume and citrus notes with light and fruity aromas. This estate grown Pinot Gris offers nuanced citrus and orchard fruit flavours with a well balanced, slightly off-dry palate and good acidity. 50% of the wine was oak aged which has added a nice texture and allowed the winemaker to dial down the sweetness while keeping some body. Drink 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 2009 Gewurztraminer - 86pts

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 2009 Gewurztraminer (Creston Valley) BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select VQA stores
Cost: $19.99
Alcohol: 14%
Production: 430 cases
Date Tasted: November 26th, 2010

Tasting Notes: With 8g/l of residual sugar this is certainly a Gewurztraminer that falls in the off-dry category. Not that the level of residual sugar is the be-all and end-all of the wine's perception of sweetness, it's really all about the wine's acid-to-sweetness balance. Here we have a balance that leans sweet due to a shortness of acid and the desire to keep the alcohol percentage at a reasonable level. The result is a fairly full-bodied Gewurz, light-brass in colour with a lovely, aromatic nose of apricots, apples and spice that will pair nicely with spicy Asian foods. Light mineral touches add a bit of complexity.

This Gewurztraminer will be the easiest wine from newly established Creston winery Baillie-Grohman to find and will be available through select VQA stores like Kensington Square in Burnaby. Drink 2010-2013.

 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Osoyoos Larose 2007 Petales d'Osoyoos - 88-90pts

Osoyoos Larose 2007 Petales d'Osoyoos (Osoyoos Lake) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Widely available in BCLDB stores
Cost: $25 (BC)
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: June 11th, 2010

Tasting Notes: The Petales d'Osoyoos may be the winery's "second" wine to the powerhouse Le Grand Vin, but it's a fine wine in its own right. Definitely approachable much earlier than its big brother but built to last just the same.

The medium intense nose offers blackberry, licorice, dark chocolate, sweet sawdust, vanilla and oak aromas. Firm tannins support the concentrated dark fruits and toasted oak flavours that dominate the dry palate. Prominent acid and savoury notes make this wine very food-friendly. Pair with a grilled red meats or a nice roast. Will develop over the next two years and become a 90pts wine. Drink 2011-2015.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 IconWines.ca

La Crema 2008 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay - 90-91pts

La Crema 2008 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay (Sonoma Valley) California - USA

Availability: BCLDB stores. Widely available in the US.
Cost: $30 (BC). $14 (Costco in WA State).
Alcohol: 13.9%
Date Tasted: June 11th, 2010

Tasting Notes: A classic oaked California Chardonnay that never approaches overdone or overbearing. It juggles being complex, meaty and easy-drinking like a court jester wooing the queen. Nice mineral notes throughout with orchard fruits playing the lead on the nose and palate. The buttery-oak characters are balanced nicely with crab-apple acidity. A full-ish palate that remains silky-smooth. Delicious. Drink 2010-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Fairview Cellars 2008 Two Hoots - 88-90pts

Fairview Cellars 2008 Two Hoots (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery, select private wine shops
Cost: $25-29
Alcohol: 14.2%
Date Tasted: November 30th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Named for two owls who return to the Fairview Cellars vineyard each year and provide "sustainable pest control", this Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend is winemaker Bill Eggert's entry-level Meritage wine. A medley of dark fruit on the nose: blueberry, blackberry and cassis. Supported with nice aromas of vanilla, toasted oak and sweet smoke.

The palate is still tight and very youthful, but with some coaxing (and major decanting) layers of dark fruits and light oak flavours appear. High-minus acid and medium-plus tannins with a chalky texture and lingering oak spice on the moderate-plus finish. Well balanced to pair with food (try a grilled, peppercorn steak).

This is the Fairview Cellars wine to buy a case of each year as it follows a similar script to the big Bear, solid extraction, built to last and develop, but minus the complexity and price tag of the flagship Bordeaux-styled blend. Aging this wine will allow the excellent tannin structure to mellow and meld with the fruit characters of the wine. Wait, if you can, and enjoy this wine from 2012+ and you'll be happily rewarded. You'll forget you only paid $25 a bottle. Drink 2012-2016.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Monthly Picks: December 2010

For the month that brings us Christmas dinner and New Year's Eve parties we've got a selection of big (and mostly red) wines for the Monthly Picks selection. Share these beauties with friends and celebrate in style.

Viñas Centenarias 2006 Sabor Real Tempranillo (Toro) Spain - $15
A raw, unfiltered, unbridled and meaty wine from the Toro DO region of Spain. This 100% Tempranillo wine may turn out to be the best valued bargain of the year with a rustic bouquet of dark cherry, minerality, dried fruits and loads of toasted oak and earthy notes.
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Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Franc (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - $17
Intense aromatics of savory herbs, dark fruit, vanilla and oak. A juicy texture on the dry palate with good continuity of flavours from the nose. Medium-plus tannins and acidity help create structure and frame the fruit flavours nicely.
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La Frenz Winery 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - $28
Round tannins and big dark berry flavours on the palate. Intense aromas of cassis and other dark fruits on the nose plus wanted oak notes.
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Fairview Cellars 2008 The Bear (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - $35
The richness from the nose is carried through to the dry palate where the concentration of the dark fruit flavours hits you with the perception of sweetness. The fruit is followed by savoury toasted oak and mineral flavours with fine, integrated tannins.
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Château des Charmes 2007 Equuleus (St. David's Bench) Niagara Peninsula - $40
With 12 months in French barriques, the Equuleus is full of grainy oak aromas and flavours. The medium-intense nose does offer some nice dark berry notes, but they are mixed in with the savoury and aromatic characters of flowers, green coffee beans, vanilla, smoke and leather. The dry palate is easily characterized as "Old World" with earthy flavours, tomato stalk, bell pepper, dark berry and good minerality.

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Poplar Grove Winery 2006 The Legacy (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - $50
A blend of 70% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon with intense aromas of dark fruits, oak and prunes with aromatic, perfume notes. The dry palate is supremely textured with concentrated flavours - good continuity from the nose. A touch of pepper spice lingers on the long, balanced finish.
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Rollingdale Winery 2007 Pinot Noir Ice Wine (West Kelowna) Okanagan Valley - $60
Massive concentration of fruit aromas and flavours (apricot jam, strawberry, fuzzy peaches candy and raspberry cremesicle) are nicely contrasted with impressively high acidity. This leads to a very long, balanced and satisfying finish.
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Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 Micro Cuvée Chardonnay (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - $70
The long white wine in the monthly picks section is certainly a special occasion wine. The balance of fruit-to-acid-to-minerality is exquisite. Orchard fruits mingle with savoury oak notes and meld with citrus and melon characters. Highly concentrated on the palate with good continuity of flavours from the refined nose. The texture reminds one of a great cigar in the way it envelopes your mouth while never being overbearing.
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 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 Micro Cuvée Chardonnay - 92-93pts

Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 Micro Cuvée Chardonnay (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select private and VQA stores
Cost: $70
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 72 cases
Date Tasted: November 14th, 2010

Tasting Notes: The Meyer Family Vineyards' 2009 Micro Cuvée Chardonnay comes from the same Old Main Road Vineyard on Naramata Bench that yields their excellent Tribute Series release. To make the grade as the Micro Cuvée, a small lot release of 72 cases, the winery selects the barrels which offer the best balance and greatest expression of terroir. The result is a Chardonnay that exudes character and pushes the quality benchmark for BC Chardonnay. In short, it's an "experience" wine.

The balance of fruit-to-acid-to-minerality is exquisite. Orchard fruits mingle with savoury oak notes and meld with citrus and melon characters. Highly concentrated on the palate with good continuity of flavours from the refined nose. The texture reminds one of a great cigar in the way it envelopes your mouth while never being overbearing.
This Meyer Family Vineyards Chardonnay strives for the same thing that the Grand Cru wines of Burgundy do - be the ultimate expression of terroir - that French term to describe everything that encompasses a wine's sense of place. That is not to say that the wines are doppelgangers, as comparing BC's youthful and varied vineyards to the thousand year old agricultural knowledge and meticulously planted landscape of Burgundy is irresolvable, but the attention to detail and the pursuit of excellent is - at the fraction of the price.

Enjoy this Chardonnay on its own with friends as a showcase. As with other 2009 releases, it is drinking well in its youth and has the finesse and pedigree to last a long time. Drink 2011-2020.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Sandhill 2009 Small Lots Program Viognier - 88-89pts

Sandhill 2009 Small Lots Program Viognier (Southern Okanagan) BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select VQA stores
Cost: $24.99
Alcohol: 14.9%
Production: 615 cases
Date Tasted: November 11th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Pouring a glass of Sandhill's excellent Small Lot Program Viognier you'd swear it was heavily oaked and aged. Neither is correct. This 2009 vintage (an admirable follow-up to the outstanding and award-winning 2008 release) has seen no oak and was released in April. The apple juice-like, amber-gold colour and touch of oaky tannin richness likely comes from the whole-cluster pressing used during the crush.

When served chilled, but not cold, the intense aromas of apricots, pear, peaches, cardamom and tropical fruit will come alive in the glass. The equally intense, off-dry and full-bodied palate follows with good continuity of flavours and good pineapple tartness. At 14.9% alcohol, a reflection of the heat from the 2009 summer, the wine's balance tips towards too hot, but only a bit as the intensity and the smoky texture of the palate masks the alcohol, mostly.

Pair with roasted mushroom and smoked bacon creamy pasta. Drinking beautifully now or hold for further development. Drink 2010-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Quinta Da Garrida 2006 Vinho Tinta - 88pts

Quinta Da Garrida 2006 Vinho Tinta (Dao) Portugal

Availability: Limited. Select BCLDB stores
Cost: $12-17
Alcohol: 14%
Date Tasted: October 31st, 2010

Tasting Notes: Savoury, smoky and earthy in character with some dark berry fruit notes on both the nose and palate. Very smooth with well-structured medium tannins and acidity. A moderate-plus finish with lingering spicy-oak.

This red blend of native Portugal varietals Tinta-Roriz and Touriga-Nacional has aged beautifully. Definitely a wine to snatch-up, if you can find it, and enjoy as an over-delivering mid-week treat. Drink 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2009 Oldfield Series Kerner Icewine - 86-88pts

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2009 Oldfield Series Kerner Icewine (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select VQA stores
Cost: $29.99 (375ml)
Alcohol: 12.6%
Production: 302 cases
Date Tasted: September 30th, 2010

Tasting Notes: When conditions cooperate Tinhorn Creek produces icewine from their block of Kerner grapes (a winter-hearty cross of Riesling and Trollinger). In 2009 conditions were met and the result from the Golden Mile winery is a tasty treat of a dessert wine but one that lacks the overall intensity of the top icewines produced in BC.

The nose offers aromas of apricot, lemon rind, maple, slate mineral and smoky notes. The fully-sweet palate follows with a citrus medley of tangerine, orange rind and lemon flavours. This Oldfield Series release is appropriately priced as an entry-level icewine - one that can be enjoyed on its own or served over vanilla ice cream. Drink 2010-2016.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Meyer Family Vineyards 2008 McLean Creek Road Vineyard Pinot Noir - 90-91pts

Meyer Family Vineyards 2008 McLean Creek Road Vineyard Pinot Noir (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Limited. Direct from winery here. Select private and VQA stores
Cost: $40
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 150 cases
Date Tasted: November, 2010

Tasting Notes: The McLean Creek Road Vineyard Pinot Noir is tasty, complex and well mannered. It's the Pinot you bring home to mom. That is not to imply boring in any way, but rather to indicate that it is neat, tidy and won't speak out of turn. Ok, it's a tad predictable with a classic dark red fruits and earthy-notes profile, but when the more flashy Pinots leave you hanging, this is the one you'll turn to for dependable quality and Pinotranquility.

Refined aromas of dark cherry, plum, warm gravel, toasted oak, vanilla and a hint of spice are followed by an intense palate of similar flavours with added raspberry flavours and a smoky texture. The moderate-plus finish is well balanced with medium tannins and acid.

I recommend you give this wine some more time in the bottle to settle and gel. It should reward patient cellaring with its excellent structure. Pair with classic Pinot Noir friendly dishes like baked salmon or beef stew. Drink 2011-2016.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Meyer Family Vineyards 2008 Central Valley Vineyard Pinot Noir - 88-89pts

Meyer Family Vineyards 2008 Central Valley Vineyard Pinot Noir (Kelowna) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select private and VQA stores
Cost: $40
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 150 cases
Date Tasted: November 9th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Complex layers of cured meats, dark cherry, vanilla, licorice, toasted oak aromas and barnyard notes greet you on the nose of this Central Valley Vineyard Pinot Noir from Meyer Family Vineyards. The bone-dry, savoury palate follows with prominent oak, plum, pine sap, mineral and vegemite flavours. The continuity from the nose to the palate is a bit askew due to the astringent bitterness character to the palate. A waxy textured wine with a moderate finish. Drink 2011-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 Pinot Noir - 88pts

Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 Pinot Noir (Okanagan Valley) - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. VQA stores
Cost: $25
Alcohol: 13.8%
Production: 620 cases
Date Tasted: November 6th, 2010

Tasting Notes: A varietal release from Meyer Family Vineyards made from Pinot Noir grapes sourced through-out the Okanagan Valley. For an entry-level Pinot Noir this wine delivers a surprisingly complex nose of raspberry, plum, mushroom, forest floor and oak spice, highlighted by aromatic jasmine notes. The palate offers good continuity from the nose with added mineral characters.

The hot 2009 growing season has contributed a bit more tannin than normal for Pinot Noir, but it doesn't over-power the palate in any way. Flavours are both juicy and earthy. The texture is tart and dusty making this an excellent wine to accompany food. Pair with heartier fare than your normal Pinot Noir, it can handle it. Ready to enjoy now, but will keep fresh for years with its quality fruit and screw top enclosure. Drink 2010-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Daniel Dampt and Fils 2007 1er Cru Côte de Léchet - 90+pts

Daniel Dampt and Fils 2007 1er Cru Côte de Léchet (Chablis) Burgundy - France

Availability: Select private wine shops
Cost: $30-40
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: October 17th, 2010

Tasting Notes: An ultra-crisp Chardonnay form producer Daniel Dampt and Fils with classic Chablis aromas and flavours of biting lemon rind, tart green apples, sweet kiwi and strong mineral notes from river rocks and steel. There is also a nice touch of nuttiness and a kiss of oak which add nuance to the prominent acid characters.

Premier Cru Chablis offers great value for money and variation of styles as the producers tend to experiment more with the vinification compared to the Grand Cru selections. The Côte de Léchet 1er Cru  is still a bit tight and would benefit from another year in the bottle. Expect more fruity characters down the road. Drink 2011-2017.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 McLean Creek Road Vineyard Chardonnay - 90+pts

Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 McLean Creek Road Vineyard Chardonnay (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select private and VQA stores
Cost: $35
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 216 cases
Date Tasted: November 7th, 2010

Tasting Notes: If the Meyer Family Vineyards Tribute Series Chardonnay can be likened to the wines of the Côte de Beaune then their McLean Creek Road Vineyard Chardonnay could be described as Chablis-like. The Okanagan Falls site has produced a crisp, focused and steely wine with loads of biting citrus, green apple and mineral characters that make you think of the wonderfully tart Chardonnay from Chablis. However, the added oak aromas and flavours and its silky texture make the wine a uniquely Okanagan product.

The dry palate bursts with lemon zest and mouth-watering acidity. The presence of savory flavours from the oak pair beautifully with the tart citrus notes. The finish is long and balanced with lingering spiced-lemon tang making you salivate for more. Drink 2010-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 Tribute Series Chardonnay - 91+pts

Meyer Family Vineyards 2009 Tribute Series Chardonnay (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select private and VQA stores
Cost: $35
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 292 cases
Date Tasted: November, 2010

Tasting Notes: Meyer Family Vineyards produces single vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines that follow the Burgundian code: make wines that express the terroir. The Tribute Series Chardonnay comes from their Naramata Bench property and exudes stonefruit minerality and juicy, fruit aromas and flavours. The key word for this wine, however, is "balance". It is so well balanced that in its presence your TV won't switch channels to Fox News.

The supreme balance comes from the medley of tart, green apple acidity paired with concentrated orchard and tropical fruit flavours all enveloped in layers of subtle, French oak. Acid, the perception of sweetness and savoury characters create a near-perfect trifecta of balance.

The 2009 vintage has produced a wine that is both approachable in its youth and cellar worthy. For such a youthful wine, it possesses a long, long finish. Excellent. Drink 2010-2017.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010