Nichol Vineyard and Estate Winery 2008 Pinot Noir - 90pts

Nichol Vineyard and Estate Winery 2008 Pinot Noir (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $26.90
Alcohol: 12.9%
Production: 565 cases
Date Tasted: September 22nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: All of Nichol Vineyard and Estate Winery's wines are made from 100% Naramata Bench grown fruit. Essentially, they'd be terroir-driven by default as all of the fruit comes from the same place. However, winery practices can certainly affect the end result and mask nuanced earth and mineral aromas and flavours - the classic example being over-oaking the wine to impart familiar tannin flavours. Winemaker and proprietor Ross Hackworth allows the raw character of the grapes to show through with a minimalist approach to the elevage - 6 months in oak and then back into stainless steel for 3 months before bottling.

The nose offers earthy aromas first followed by red fruits. Medium-to-light weight in the mouth with classic cherry and plum fruit flavours with good minerality on the dry palate. Cooking spice lingers on the moderate finish. Very well balanced with round, ripe medium tannins. Drink 2010-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Nichol Vineyard and Estate Winery 2008 Syrah - 90-91pts

Nichol Vineyard and Estate Winery 2008 Syrah (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $29.90
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 470 cases
Date Tasted: September 22nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: What makes this wine unique is that Nichol Vineyard combines the earthy, barnyard qualities one expects from a top terroir-driven Pinot Noir with the power and boldness of a juicy Syrah. The resulting wine is the closest thing I've tasted from BC that reminds me of a Northern Rhone Syrah. Perhaps this is due to the 100% estate grown fruit or perhaps it's due to the 20 year old vines. Likely, it is a combination of all that with the limited oak treatment (6 months) winemaker Ross Hackworth employs which allows the wine to showcase both its earth and fruit characters.

Dark cherry is prominent on the nose and dry palate. Pepper spice is present but plays a supporting role in this Syrah, mostly showing in the long and balanced finish. Round tannins add structure with good natural acidity which will keep the wine fresh and evolving for some time. Drink 2010-2015.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Wild Goose Vineyards 2009 Autumn Gold - 88pts

Wild Goose Vineyards 2009 Autumn Gold (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: VQA stores and direct from winery here
Cost: $18.99
Alcohol: 12.5%
Date Tasted: September 27th, 2010

Tasting Notes: A blend of Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris, this smooth and tasty wine offers subtle citrus, papaya and lychee fruit aromas with slate mineral notes on the nose. The off-dry palate is  luscious in texture with a creamy mouth feel. Crisp acidity keeps the wine balanced and allows the fruit flavours of apple, pear, citrus and Christmas cake spice to shine. Bit of lingering tartness on the moderate finish refreshes the palate. Drink young, on its own or with light salads. 2010-2011.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Monthly Picks

Welcome to our new Monthly Picks section where each month we will highlight some of the wines we've either recently reviewed or wines we recommend for seasonal fare. All wines are available in either Ontario or British Columbia (and sometimes both provinces).

Click on the month name to view the selections:

December 2010

November 2010

October 2010

Monthly Picks: October 2010

Black Hills Estate Winery 2009 Viognier (Black Sage Bench) Okanagan Valley - $30
Medium-plus intense aromas of minerals, stone fruit, honey, aromatic flowers, peaches, tropical fruit, orange rind and light oak. Good continuity of flavours through to the dry palate with more austere mineral notes and a nice lingering spice on the moderate-plus finish.
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Fielding Estate Winery 2009 Viognier (Beamsville Bench) Niagara Peninsula - $30
The luscious nose offers intense aromas of pears and baked apples with lovely perfume notes and a vein of slate minerality. The ever-so-slightly, off-dry palate produces an excellent balance between acid and intense fruit flavours of melons, apples and tropical fruits.
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La Frenz Winery 2008 Shiraz (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - $28
The concentrated fruit aromas and flavours give the impression of sweetness on the intense nose and dry palate, masking any hotness from the alcohol.
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Stratus Vineyards 2007 Red (Niagara-On-The-Lake) Niagara Peninsula - $44
The bone-dry palate with its vibrant, juicy texture offers intense flavours of dark fruits, blueberry, leather, oak and gravel with just a hint of citrus. Bright, ripe tannins are a just tad tight at the moment. We recommend decanting for a few hours if drunk young.
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Two Hands Wines 2008 Gnarly Dudes Shiraz (Barossa Valley) South Australia  - $40
Tart and tannic at times, but oh so tasty. A sublime nose with layers and layers of complex, highly concentrated aromas ranging from sweet eucalyptus to spicy dark chocolate to savory toasted oak.
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Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series 2Bench Red (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - $30
The intense nose offers classic Meritage aromas of cassis, dark berries, dark chocolate, toasted oak and licorice with aromatic perfumed notes (thank you Cabernet Franc). The dry palate offers an echo of sweetness from the concentrated dark fruit  and toasted oak flavours.
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Special Event: Canadian Thanksgiving

Haywire Winery 2009 Switchback Pinot Gris (Summerland) Okanagan Valley - $23
The Switchback Pinot Gris starts with alluring aromas of juicy, baked peaches and minerality, with herbal notes on the nose. The dry palate offers both fruity and savory flavours of citrus fruits, pears and dried herbs. Pair as a white wine option for your roasted turkey dinner.
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JoieFarm 2008 PTG (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - $30
The nose warrants a few moments to appreciate. It starts with meaty barnyard aromas but gives way to cherry nibs and dark berries. Oak, vanilla and a touch of cotton candy add complexity to the intense barnyard and fruit ballet. Pair with roasted chicken or turkey.
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Le Clos Jordanne Estate Wines 2007 Talon Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir (Vinemount Ridge) Niagara Peninsula - $40
Elegant, developing aromas of dark cherry, raspberry seed, oak spice and steely minerality on the nose. The palate recalls the limestone terroir with earthy flavours, austere acidity and smooth, integrated tannins. Very Burgundian in character. Decant for 2+ hours before serving. Pair with your roasted turkey dinner.
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- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Nichol Vineyard and Estate Winery 2008 9 Mile Red - 88pts

Nichol Vineyard and Estate Winery 2008 9 Mile Red (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $26.90
Alcohol: 13%
Production: 215 cases
Date Tasted: September 22nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: The 9 Mile Red, who's light-coloured appearance would predispose you to think it a lightweight, really packs a punch. Intense vanilla-cherry aromas and earthy notes great you on the nose followed by a crisp and bright medium-bodied palate with good continuity of flavours; cherry, vanilla, plum and warm gravel. A blend of 57% St. Laurent and 43% Pinot Noir with 6 months in French oak. The high natural acidity and flavour profile makes the wine a great pairing for savory fish dishes like grilled salmon or sea bass. Drink now. 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier

Poplar Grove Winery 2007 Syrah - 90+pts

Poplar Grove Winery 2007 Syrah (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. VQA stores
Cost: $30
Alcohol: 14.2%
Date Tasted: September 22nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: The fruit for this beautiful Syrah came from a Skaha Lake vineyard with excellent sun exposure. The resulting wine, handled expertly by winemaker Ian Sutherland, is fully ripe and bursting with concentrated red and dark fruit flavours and aromas. 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.

Winner of a 2010 Lieutenant Governor Award of Excellence - well deserved. Enjoy on its own or with grilled meats. Drink now through 2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Merlot - 87pts

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Merlot (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery. Released in October
Cost: $17.99
Alcohol: 14.5%
Production: 9936 cases
Date Tasted: September 10th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Dark ruby in colour (lighter than the Oldfield Series "Reserve" version), this widely available Merlot from Tinhorn Creek is sure to please as an easy-drinking and food friendly match to many grilled or roasted meats. The perfect dinner party wine with classic Merlot dark fruit flavours and aromas for when you don't know the specific likes or dislikes of the other guests. I wouldn't go too far and declare that "there's something for everyone" in this wine, but I would find it hard to believe that anyone would have a strong adverse reaction to its quality juice and the skilled winemaking behind it. Drink young, with food. 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010
Also see:
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Franc
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Merlot
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Syrah

La Frenz Winery 2008 Shiraz - 90pts

La Frenz Winery 2008 Shiraz (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $28
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: September 22nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: A bright and joyful nose of dark cherries, oak, licorice and pepper on this dark ruby coloured Shiraz from La Frenz Winery. The concentrated fruit aromas and flavours give the impression of sweetness on the intense nose and dry palate, masking any hotness from the alcohol. Supremely well balance with a long finish of lingering spice. Drink 2010-2015.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Two Hands Wines 2008 Gnarly Dudes Shiraz - 90pts

Two Hands Wines 2008 Gnarly Dudes Shiraz (Barossa Valley) South Australia - Australia

Availability: BCLDB stores, Costco (Washington State)
Cost: $40 (BC), $25 (WA)
Alcohol: 14.9%
Date Tasted: September 23rd, 2010

Tasting Notes: Tart and tannic at times, but oh so tasty. A sublime nose with layers and layers of complex, highly concentrated aromas ranging from sweet eucalyptus to spicy dark chocolate to savory toasted oak. The tart palate explodes with concentrated flavours of dark fruits and Christmas Cake spice. The tannins are a touch sharp, but fully ripe. Drink 2010-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Stag's Hollow Winery 2008 Syrah - 89pts

Stag's Hollow Winery 2008 Syrah (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $27.99
Alcohol: 14.8%
Production: 310 cases
Date Tasted: September 23rd, 2010

Tasting Notes: Made from fruit grown on the Skaha Bench and near Osoyoos, the Stag's Hollow 2008 Syrah is a Northern Rhone Valley, Cote Rotie inspired blend of Syrah and Viognier. Co-fermented in lots of varying percentages (5, 10, 15% Viognier) with 10 months of oak aging and then blended to produce the final 91%-9% split.

Loads of aromatic perfume notes on the nose from the Viognier. Just a schoch less would be perfect as the Syrah flavours on the palate are powerful and bold and the result is a bit reminiscent of a bodybuilder with flowers in his hair. Otherwise, an excellent Syrah full of big pepper notes, fruit flavours and appropriate levels of oak influence (90% French, 10% American). Approachable now and will keep another 3-4 years due to good tannin structure and natural acidity. Drink 2010-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Poplar Grove Winery 2006 The Legacy - 91pts

Poplar Grove Winery 2006 The Legacy (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. VQA stores
Cost: $50
Alcohol: 14.8%
Date Tasted: September 23rd, 2010

Tasting Notes: 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.

The aging of this big red has been done for you at the winery and thus the wine is approachable upon release. Further development with cellaring will be minimal but its excellent tannic structure will allow a long window of enjoyment. Enjoy on its own or with roasted meats. Drink 2010-2016.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

La Frenz Winery 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon - 90-92pts

La Frenz Winery 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $28
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: September 22nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: A big winner at the 2010 All Canadian Wine Competition winning the "Best Cabernet Sauvignon over $25" category. Happily, it's only just over $25 and beat out many higher priced wines in the process.

We strongly recommend cellaring this beauty for two years before opening it to truly get the most out of it - you will be rewarded for your patience. However, if you can't wait, you'll get ripe, 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. Drink 2012-2017.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

La Frenz Winery 2007 Grand Total Reserve - 92-93pts

La Frenz Winery 2007 Grand Total Reserve (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $40
Alcohol: 14%
Date Tasted: September 22nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: The 2007 offering of the La Frenz's big gun is made up of a whopping 52% Cabernet Franc with the four other Bordeaux varietals (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot) filling out the blend. The result is a wine that ultimately doesn't stray far from the house style for their big red, robust-meets-restrain, but does offer more aromatic, perfume-y notes on the nose and a touch of twang on the palate. La Frenz should sell tickets to their yearly blending summit for this wine - it must be a fun exercise.

The 2007 Reserve delivers an intense and powerful nose of dark fruits and toasted oak with a vein of sweetness emanating from the concentrated fruit aromas. The palate is concentrated as well, but the layers of flavours don't bombard your senses, they melt slowly in your mouth like a bar of chocolate in the microwave.

Year-in-year-out this is one of the top Meritage blends in the Province and remains fairly unheralded. Drinking beautifully now, but the fine, ripe tannins and good acidity will allow this wine to age comfortably for some time. Drink 2010-2017.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Fielding Estate Winery 2009 Viognier - 90-91pts

Fielding Estate Winery 2009 Viognier (Beamsville Bench) Niagara Peninsula - Ontario

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $30
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: August 8th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Having tasted many outstanding BC Viognier offerrngs over the years, we've passed over Ontario examples in favour of Niagara's white wine specialties: Chardonnay and Riesling. No longer. The Fielding Estate Winery 2009 Viognier is a marvelous wine that will make you take notice of the varietal in the Niagara Peninsula.

The luscious nose offers intense aromas of pears and baked apples with lovely perfume notes and a vein of slate minerality. The ever-so-slightly, off-dry palate produces an excellent balance between acid and intense fruit flavours of melons, apples and tropical fruits. Layers of mineral and citrus await you; a complex wine to be sure. The finish is long with a lingering, intriguing combo of austere minerality and spice. Very well done.

Enjoy now with spicy food or on its own. Or cellar for another 1-2 years for further development.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 (with Hugh Carter)

Fielding Estate Winery 2008 Un-Oaked Chardonnay - 87pts

Fielding Estate Winery 2008 Un-Oaked Chardonnay (Niagara Peninsula) Ontario

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $15.95
Alcohol: 12.5%
Date Tasted: August 8th, 2010

Tasting Notes: For white wine lovers who prefer a crisp expression of fruit flavours rather than an oaked set-piece, the 2008 Un-Oaked Chardonnay from Beamsville Bench producer Fielding Estate Winery is the wine for you. Light, pale straw in colour with aromatic, candied-lemon, mineral and orchard fruit aromas. The palate is subtle with medium acidity (a bit low for a Chardonnay that hasn't been through malolactic fermentation) and medium body. Good continuity of aromas to flavours with the palate also showing a touch of tropical fruit. Enjoy this wine young.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010

Generation Seven Wines 2009 Red - 86pts

Generation Seven Wines 2009 Red (Niagara-On-The-Lake) Ontario

Availability: LCBO stores. Chateau Des Charmes Niagara
Cost: $13.95 (Ontario)
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: September 15th, 2010

Tasting Notes: This blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Gamay finds its voice by focusing on the fruit characters of each varietal creating a smorgasbord of berry and dark fruit flavours. No lengthy oak program needed for this fun and easy-drinking wine that offers a spectrum of aromas and flavours framed nicely by soft, smooth tannins and a strong acidic kick. Well balanced with a steady finish of lingering spice.

Enjoyable on its own, but the wine really shines when paired with food. I tried it with a tomato-based, spicy meatball pasta sauce (with some of the wine added in) and the acidity and weight stood up beautifully. Drink young. 2010-2011. LCBO #198036
 - Liam Carrier

Generation Seven Wines 2009 White - 87pts

Generation Seven Wines 2009 White (Niagara-On-The-Lake) Ontario

Availability: LCBO stores. Chateau Des Charmes Niagara
Cost: $13.95 (Ontario)
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: September 15th, 2010

Tasting Notes: Fresh, flavourful and fun. This white blend, a new release (and new brand) from Niagara-On-The-Lake producer Chateau des Charmes, packs a punch of crisp acidity with good concentration of fruit flavours and aromas. A bit off-dry to balance the acidity, this blend of Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Gewurztraminer offers fantastic value for money with a lively palate displaying elements of each of the three varietals.

The playful nose of granny smith apples, minerals, citrus fruit and lychee with strong floral notes, matches the playfulness of the labels which signifies seven generations of the Bosc's family's involvement in wine production (the last three in Niagara).

This new white blend reminds me of a perennial favourite: Road 13 Vineyard's Honest John's White. Good company to keep. Drink young. 2010-2011. LCBO# 197988
 - Liam Carrier

Otuwhero Estates 2009 Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc - 89pts

Otuwhero Estates 2009 Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc (Awatere Valley) Marlborough - New Zealand

Availability: Limited (Canada)
Cost: $15-20
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: September 6th, 2010

Tasting Notes: A bright and energetic Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough chalk full of minerality and citrus fruits. A palate cleanser like no other without the battery acid harshness of some other over-reaching Sauvignon Blanc. The single vineyard fruit gives the wine an identity and sense of place. Much appreciated as many New Zealand wines, produced by the bid domaines, can sometimes feel like paint-by-numbers offerings. Enjoy now, while the wine is youthful and fresh. 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier

Nichol Vineyard Estate Winery 2006 Cabernet Franc - 89pts

Nichol Vineyard Estate Winery 2006 Cabernet Franc (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Limited. Direct from winery or select private shops
Cost: $26.90
Alcohol: 12.7%
Date Tasted: August 12th, 2010

Tasting Notes: The small boutique winery on Naramata bench makes some great wines including a lovely Pinot Noir, but  the Cabernet Franc steals the show. The fruit is expressed beautifully wrapped nicely in round, slightly green tannins. Aromas of dark fruit, coffee grinds, vanilla, anise, oak and barnyard notes on the nose are followed by similar flavours on the dry palate with good concentration and weight. Drink now. 2010-2012.
 - Liam Carrier

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IconScores.ca hosts the reviews and ratings for its sister site, IconWines.ca. There are a number of ways to look up your favourite wines, varieties or producers.

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JoieFarm 2008 Reserve Chardonnay - 90+pts

JoieFarm 2008 Reserve Chardonnay (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select private wine shops
Cost: $29.90 (direct)
Alcohol: 13%
Production: 500 cases
Date Tasted: September 8th, 2010

Tasting Notes: The 2008 vintage of JoieFarm's Reserve Chardonnay is in tough as the fabulous, Lieutenant Governor Award of Excellence winning 2007 vintage is a hard act to follow. However, it succeeds admirably offering complex aromas and flavours of pears, tropical fruits and honeycomb with elegant characters and spice from a thorough oak program. There is a pleasing vein of minerality through the wine that speaks to its Okanagan birthplace despite being a blend from multiple sites.

The fruit flavours are not as forward on the concentrated palate as the 2007 (recently re-tasted in August 2010) possibly due to a cooler and delayed growing season. The attitude of the 2008 leans more towards Burgundy on the pendulum of New to Old World style.

For BC Wine collectors, assembling a vertical of JoieFarm's Reserve Chardonnay is a must. They deliver an interesting, well-made, quality wine each year that changes and reflects the vintage - the pros and cons. This is honest winemaking. These are wines built to age that will reward careful cellaring. Drink 2010-2018.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010
Also see:
JoieFarm 2008 PTG
JoieFarm 2009 A Noble Blend
JoieFarm 2009 Un-Oaked Chardonnay

JoieFarm 2008 PTG - 90-92pts

JoieFarm 2008 PTG (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here. Select private wine shops
Cost: $29.90 (Direct)
Alcohol: 13%
Production: 780 cases
Date Tasted: September 7th, 2010

Tasting Notes: The JoieFarm "PTG", which stands for "Passetoutgrain", a little known wine from Burgundy, is a delicious blend of Pinot Noir (60%) and Gamay Noir (40%). It combines the classic barnyard funk of a Burgundian-style Pinot Noir with the bright fruitiness of a Beaujolais - all-the-while staying true to its Okanagan roots.

The nose warrants a few moments to appreciate. It starts with meaty barnyard aromas but gives way to cherry nibs and dark berries. Oak, vanilla and a touch of cotton candy add complexity to the intense barnyard and fruit ballet. A nose to remember.

The dry palate has excellent tannic structure with forward fruit flavours of cherry cola, dark fruits and savory spice. Pepper lingers on the moderate and balanced finish. The texture is lively, but purposed with good acidity which makes this an excellent wine to pair with food (well, that's not saying much as all of the JoieFarm wines pair beautifully with food. One suspects winemaker Heidi Noble to have had a particular dish in mind during the blending process of each wine). Drink now or cellar for another 3-4 years for further development. Enjoy 2010-2017.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010
See also:
JoieFarm 2008 Reserve Chardonnay
JoieFarm 2009 A Noble Blend
JoieFarm 2009 Rosé
JoieFarm 2009 Un-Oaked Chardonnay

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Franc - 87pts

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Franc (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery. Released in October
Cost: $17.99
Alcohol: 14.6%
Production: 5468 cases
Date Tasted: September

Tasting Notes: The first wine I ever tasted from Tinhorn Creek was their Cabernet Franc and I will always associate this varietal with them. (Although, the new Oldfield Series 2007 2 Bench Red may be their best wine yet). Early proponents for the lesser-known Bordeaux variety's penchant for the Southern Okanagan's climate, Tinhorn Creek planted acres of Cabernet Franc against the advice of friends and colleagues and we are all the better for it.

The 2008 vintage takes a step towards elegance and refinement from the 2007's two-step of pungent cheese and berries. Think cool climate Loire Valley Cabernet Franc for the new release. Vintage variation is nothing to fear - rather it should be embraced.

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. Very approachable now and will last another 4-5 years with careful cellaring. Drink 2010-2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010
See also:
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series 2Bench Red
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Merlot
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Syrah

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Merlot - 88pts

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Merlot (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery. Released in October
Cost: $24.99
Alcohol: 15%
Production: 1492 cases
Date Tasted: September

Tasting Notes: The Oldfield Series Merlot has a stunning nose of dark berries, cherry, slate, gravel, savoury herbs and coffee with big oak and vanilla latte notes. The palate offers well structured, smooth and slightly green tannins with classic dark fruit flavours. The texture is first juicy and up front and then chalky and mischievous. Patient decanting will help bring out more layers of complexity revealing more earthy notes along with French oak and bitter chocolate flavours. A full bodied wine with good concentration. Balance leans towards hot alcohol with a touch of lingering spice. Excellent pairing for dark chocolate or enjoy on its own. Drink now through 2014.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 (with Hugh Carter)

As a test to discover your level of wine geekness, read the following suggestion. Should you act upon it, then you are definitely one of us:) Buy a bottle of the Oldfield Series 2007 Merlot and a bottle of the regular 2008 Merlot and taste them side-by-side. Yes, they are different vintages with all the climatic variables one would expect, but the main thing you'll likely get is the difference the oak program and barrel selection has made in the final product. Decide for yourself which approach you prefer.

Also see:
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Merlot
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Franc
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Syrah
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series 2Bench Red

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Syrah - 90pts

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Syrah (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery. Released in October
Cost: $29.99
Alcohol: 14.6%
Production: 527 cases
Date Tasted: September 3rd, 2010

Tasting Notes: The Oldfield Series Syrah from southern Okanagan Valley producer Tinhorn Creek Vineyards displays an intense, inky ruby colour and an equally intense nose of dark cherry, vanilla, blackberry jam, pepper and cooking spice. Savory aromas of leather, cedar and hot gravel accompany the fruit creating a developing, complex bouquet well worth a long sniff.

The palate is dry with good tannins and natural acidity - just the right amount of bite. Juicy flavours of dark fruit, vanilla, leather and toasted oak with a chalky, smoky texture. The finish is moderate and balanced with lingering pepper spice. Enjoy now with sweet BBQ meats or on its own. 2010-2014. http://www.tinhorn.com/
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010
See also:
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Merlot
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series 2Bench Red

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series 2Bench Red - 91+pts

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series 2Bench Red (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery. Released in October
Cost: $29.99
Alcohol: 15%
Production: 335 cases
Date Tasted: September

Tasting Notes: Reading the stats for the wine I was a bit apprehensive about the 15% alcohol content, fearing that the wine would be too hot and out of balance. Boy, was I wrong. The alcohol mingles effortlessly with the concentrated fruit flavours which mask its effect. This wine is very well balanced and chalk-full of character.

A Bordeaux-style blend of 42% Cabernet Sauvignon with equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The intense nose offers classic Meritage aromas of cassis, dark berries, dark chocolate, toasted oak and licorice with aromatic perfumed notes (thank you Cabernet Franc). The dry palate offers an echo of sweetness from the concentrated dark fruit  and toasted oak flavours. Plum, vanilla and a lingering spice compliment and add complexity. The tannins are round and well integrated, framing the fruit flavours nicely.

A New World wine in style and character of the feminine variety. It's a beautiful wine. Drinking well now but a touch of further development is possible despite the Stelvin enclosure. 2010-2016.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010
Also see:
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2008 Merlot

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Merlot
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 2007 Oldfield Series Syrah

Herder Winery and Vineyards 2007 Twin Benches Chardonnay - 89-90pts

Herder Winery and Vineyards 2007 Twin Benches Chardonnay (Keremeos Upper Bench) Similkameen Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery
Cost: $34
Alcohol: 13.4%
Production: 104 cases
Date Tasted: September 2nd, 2010

Tasting Notes: A powerful, intense Chardonnay that avoids over-the-top, hit-you-in-the-face buttery oak flavours. The nose is subtle, smoky and refined with a good amount of tropical and orchard fruit aromas shining through. Lees and mineral characters are also present.

The intensity is scaled-up a bit on the palate with pear, apple, citrus fruit aromas blending nicely with the French oak vanilla and spice. A bit of tanginess lingers on the moderate-plus finish. The balance is spot on.

This is an excellent Chardonnay that has aged beautifully in the three years since harvest and will continue to for another few. Pair with lobster or crab or with a creamy white pasta. Enjoy now through 2013. http://www.herder.ca/
 - Liam Carrier

La Frenz Winery 2008 Montage - 90+pts

La Frenz Winery 2008 Montage (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $22.00
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: September 1st, 2010

Tasting Notes: If I were to sum-up the 2008 Montage with one sentence it would be "intense, balanced, complex and oh-so appealing". A perennial favourite of IconWines.ca due to its value for money. Yes, the price went from $20 to $22 for the 2008 vintage, but you get a lot of wine for that $22. If I were forced to buy one case of red wine each year (luckily I'm not) this would be the wine.

A blend of Shiraz, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon grown on their Rattlesnake vineyard, this wine has intense aromas of dark cherry, dark berries and licorice on the nose with light pepper notes. The dry, full-bodied palate offers concentrated flavours of blackberry, oak, warm gravel, cassis and plum with fine tannins and a chalky, lively texture. The finish is long and balanced with lingering oak spice and a slight tartness.

The Montage is always released ready to be enjoyed but further development can be expected with patient cellaring. Drink 2010-2014. http://www.lafrenzwinery.com/
 - Liam Carrier

About Us

IconScores.ca is the sister-site to IconWines.ca. Here we post the results of our wine reviews using the standard 100 point scale.

IconWines.ca is a wine consulting and wine review website that was established in May 2009 by writer and wine reviewer Liam Carrier. Wines from around the world are covered with a keen interest on the wines produced here in Canada.

IconWines.ca and IconScores.ca creates reviews and articles for the internet, social networking sites and print media that can be used to promote local and international wines. Reviews and articles remain separate and completely independent from any other services offered.

Main Contributors
Liam Carrier (articles, wine reviews)
Hugh Carter (events, tasting notes)

Icon Wines Mission
Our mission has two equally important objectives:
1) To become the Canadian gold standard in wine reviews and journalism by producing high quality, and innovative work and services.
2) Translate our passion and enthusiasm for wine culture and lifestyle to a global audience through current and pioneering technologies.

Icon Wines Vision
To generate an accessible secondary market for investment grade wines in Canada through the use of technology, social networking, marketing, and promotion.

Links

Below is a listing of some of Icon Wines' favourite websites related to wine.

Canada:

Robert Bell's Wines of Canada
A great resource for Canadian winery details, from coast to coast.
http://www.winesofcanada.com/

Mike and Mike's Wine Garage TV
Fun videos that cover wine basics, winery profiles and events in BC.
http://winegarage.tv/

John Schreiner's GoodGrog
Knowledgable articles on the BC wine industry and tasting notes.
http://johnschreiner.blogspot.com/

Daenna Van Mulligen's WineDiva
Vancouver's most personable (and pinkest) wine writer and reviewer.
http://www.winediva.ca/

United States:

Barbara Evans' Seattle Wine Gal
Great resource for Washington State wines and Social Networking Tips.
http://barbaraevans.wordpress.com/

World Wide:

Wine Searcher
Want to price a wine online? Go here.
http://www.wine-searcher.com/