Category Archives: Wine

WYKwinos Report No. 14

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Date/Time: April 1, 2011, 6:30 p.m. (roughly 3 hours)

Place: Mon Sheong Court, Scarborough, click here to see a video of the event

1st Bottle ARDUS PATER KANAI RISERVA CARIGNANO DEL SULCIS
Varietal: Carignano del Sulcis Winery/Producer: Cantina Sardus Pater
Type: Red Year: 2007
Cost: $17.95 Region: Sardinia Italy
Food to pair: Antipasto of Melon & Prosciutto, Boccocinni cheese, Roma tomato, Roasted Avocado w Balsamic reduction LCBO #: 177071
Remarks: The 2005 Carignano del Sulcis Riserva Kanai is a very pretty red made in a mid-weight, ethereal style. The wine reveals lovely inner perfume into its floral red fruits and sweet toasted oak, showing excellent balance and poise. This elegant, restrained Carignano makes a great introduction to the estate’s wines. Score – 90.
2nd Bottle MARCHESI DE’ FRESCOBALDI CASTELLO DI POMINO
Varietal: Sangiovese Winery/Producer: Marchesi de Frescobaldi
Type: Red Year: 2006
Cost: $19.95 Region: Tuscany Italy
Food to pair: See Bottle #1 LCBO #: 939223
Remarks: Aromas of strawberry and flowers follow through to a full-bodied palate, with fresh, citric acidity, fine tannins and a delicate fruit finish. Harmonious and refined. Think Burgundy. Pinot Nero, Sangiovese and Merlot. Best from 2010 through 2015. Score – 90.
3rd Bottle WILLM RÉSERVE RIESLING (V)
Varietal: Riesling Winery/Producer: A. Willm
Type: White Year: 2009
Cost: $15.95 Region: Alsace, France
Food to pair: Pesto pasta seafood medley, Foccaccia bread stick LCBO #: 11452
Remarks: This classic bone-dry Alsatian Riesling features fresh fruit aromas of lime juice with peach and mineral notes. It is medium bodied with a racy and crisp/fruity palate, and a very long finish. It would be an excellent match for grilled salmon steaks, Alsatian onion tarts or gourmet sausages.
4th Bottle ROCCA DELLE MACÌE CHIANTI RISERVA
Varietal: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Winery/Producer: Rocca Delle Macie
Type: Red Year: 2006
Cost: $15.95 Region: Tuscany Italy
Food to pair: Chicken parmesan, Spring mix citrus dressing, Roasted sweet potato aioli LCBO #: 111641
Remarks: The 2006 Chianti Classico Riserva is a big, super-ripe wine loaded with black cherries, blueberries, French oak and spices. Stylistically, this is a concentrated, voluminous Riserva with terrific persistence and balance. The Riserva spent 24 months in French oak. Score – 90.
5th Bottle LISON PRAMAGGIORE CABERNET FRANC
Varietal: Cabernet Franc Winery/Producer: Santa Margherita
Type: Red Year: 2008
Cost: $12.95 Region: Veneto, Italy
Food to pair: see Bottle #4 LCBO #: 203414
Remarks: Santa Margherita was founded in 1935 by Count Gaetano Marzotto Jr., an entrepreneurial figure who played a significant role in Italian finance. He earned the nickname “the humanist businessman,” thanks to his consideration of the impact of the continued economic development on the population as a whole. From the producers of VINTAGES’ #1 selling white wine (Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio, 106450), this Cabernet Franc shows lovely notes of raspberry, cherry, and blackcurrant with a hint of violet. The palate is beautifully balanced with plum and strawberry showing thorough. Perfect for pizza night.
Accompanying Dishes
Appetizer Pasta Entrée
Dessert Our Chef Menu

WYKwinos Report No. 13

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Date/Time: 18th February 2011, 7 p.m.

Place: Regal Palace Chinese Cuisine  富豪金閣

1st Bottle Kruger-Rumpf Riesling Spatlese   

 
Varietal: Riesling   Winery/Producer: Weingut Krup-Rumpf
Type: White   (MD) Year: 2006
Cost: $16.95 Region: Nahe, Germany
Food to pair: 漁家小炒 LCBO #: 189662 
Remarks: Another lusciously fruity, subtly creamy wine from this collection, it expresses a sorbet-like fruit personality on its silken-textured palate, and spreads chalky, saline, and wet stone mineral along with effusive ripe fruit in a lip-smacking finish. Enjoy this irresistibly luscious Saptlese, model of refinement and balance, and excellent value anytime over the next 15 years.Score: 91
2nd Bottle Tabali Reserva Carmenere    

 

  
Varietal: Carmenere Winery/Producer: Vina Tabali  
Type: Red Wine    (XD) Year: 2008  
Cost: $14.95 Region: Limari Valley, Chile  
Food to pair: 冰梅鎮排骨  LCBO #: 044008  
Remarks: This is a lovely example of the variety that aspires to be Chile’s signature. Look for well-structured fruit that shows good depth and complexity, partnered with clean acidity that makes for a tangy texture, its solid right through the palate, and is a natural for hearty red meat dishes.Score: ****  
3rd Bottle Rolling Shiraz   

 

  
Varietal: Shiraz Winery/Producer: Cumulus Wines   
Type: Red Wine    (XD) Year: 2009  
Cost: $14.95 Region: Central Ranges, N.S.W. Australia  
Food to pair: 黑椒蘑菇牛柳粒 LCBO #: 203133  
Remarks: The nose is alive with blackberry, black pepper, spice and candied fruit aromas. The palate is dry, medium bodied and just as rich in fruit and spice notes. This is a great value wine and will really soar when paired with beef bourguignon.Score: 90 ( RL)  
   
4th Bottle J. Bouchon Las Mercedes Reserva Especial  

 

  
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon Winery/Producer: Vina J. Bouchon  
Type: Red wine    (XD) Year: 2007  
Cost: $14.95 Region: Maule Valley, Chile  
Food to pair: 手淋脆皮雞 LCBO #: 208348  
Remarks: A Gold Medal winner at the 2010 Concours Mondial in Brussels, this wine features aromas of black cherry, rose petals, black pepper and a hint of mint. Dry, focus and fresh; this wine has tremendous aroma replays on the palate. A bit firm at the moment but decants it for an hour and it will be a happy partner for stir-fried beef.Score: Gold Medal winner  
     
     
5th Bottle SUR De Los Andes Reserva  

 

  
Varietal: Malbec Winery/Producer: Sur Bodegas Y Vinedos  
Type: Red wine    (XD) Year: 2007  
Cost: $13.95 Region: Argentina  
Food to pair: 痲辣水煮牛筋腩 LCBO #: 208322  
Remarks: This is a textbook Malbec from Mendoza. The intense nose is a sensory thrill-ride, bursting with notes of cherry, cocoa, leather, cedar, blackberry, earth, and a hint of bacon. Dry and medium-full bodied, the palate is layered and complex, with rich fruit replays embroidered by lovely chocolate notes.  Tannins and the acidity are beautifully balanced. Medium-long on the finish, with tantalizing spicy-cedar notes. Treat your friends to a taste of Mendoza, and serve with a hearty spicy stew.  

WYKwinos Report No. 12

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Date: Thursday, Jan. 6, 2011. 7pm – 10 pm
Place: 皇子海鲜酒家 Prince of Seafood Restaurant, 240 Alton Towers Circle, #A7 Tel. 416-298-3238

Wine is a reflection of the mood which the drinker is in. To celebrate the New Year, a bubbly is selected. To wish everybody 发得 in 2011, French/German wines are here to cheer you on!

1st Bottle GRAHAM BECK BRUT SPARKLING WINE
Wine: Sparkling Wine 12.0% Alcohol/Vol. xd Winery/Producer: Made in: South Africa, South Africa
By: Graham Beck Wines
Type: pinot noir and chardonnay Year: n/a
Cost: $17.95 Region: South Africa
Food to pair: 清炒芦笋 LCBO #: Release Date: Dec 11, 2010 #593483
Remarks: Tasting Note: (a 54/46 blend of pinot noir and chardonnay) Pale copper-tinged gold. Tangerine, spicy oak and a hint of exotic fruits on the nose. Fruity and harmonious, with a yeasty complexity adding depth to the fairly dense, harmonious middle palate. Comes across as sweeter and fuller than the Blanc de Blancs, but finishes dry and crisp, with a bit more length. No shortage of flavor here. Score – 89. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, March/April 2009)
2nd Bottle BOUGRIER VOUVRAY 2009
Wine: White Wine 11.5% Alcohol/Vol., MD Winery/Producer: Made in: Loire, France By: Bougrier
Type: Chenin Blanc Year: 2009
Cost: $13.95 Region: Loire, France
Food to pair: 雪豆三鲜 LCBO #: Release Date: Dec 11, 2010 #106880
Remarks: Chenin Blanc at its best, as with this example, features aromas of peach, citrus, lanolin and pear. Chenin is known for its refreshing acidity, thereby making it a fine candidate for cellar maturation. Some Vouvray have been known to last for 50 years or more, but you can try them earlier than that – give this one a more conservative 2-4 years due to more approachable styling. You will, however, also get great pleasure with this highly versatile wine now if you pair it with grilled prawns, vindaloo chicken or other spicy South Asian dishes. (Vintages Dec. 11, 2010).
3rd Bottle REICHSGRAF VON KESSELSTATT RIESLING SPÄTLESE 2003
Wine: White Wine 11.5% Alcohol/Vol. MS Winery/Producer: Reichsgraf Von Kesslerstatt
Type: Riesling Year: 2003
Cost: $21.95 Region: Germany
Food to pair: 中式牛柳 LCBO #: Release Date: Nov 27, 2010 #712471
Remarks: Tasting Note: A lush, voluminous Riesling, with ripe apricot, lime and mineral lurking in the background. The structure is apparent from mid-palate through finish, suggesting this needs more time to integrate. Best from 2006 through 2016. Score – 90. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Feb. 28, 2005)
4th Bottle DOMAINE DES AILES MOULIN-À-VENT 2009
Wine: Red Wine 13.0% Alcohol/Vol，　d Winery/Producer: Made in: Burgundy, France
By: Cave Des Vignerons De Bel-Ai
Type: Gamay Year: 2009
Cost: $15.95 Region: Burgundy, France
Food to pair: 八珍扒大鸭 LCBO #: Release Date: Nov 27, 2010 #183442
Remarks: Tasting Note: The inimitable Beaujolais producer George Duboeuf described the 2009 vintage as one of the best of the last 50 years, and the Domaine des Ailes Moulin-à-Vent is a simply terrific-value wine from this great vintage. Bright violet in the glass with an intense nose of cherry, cassis, spice, and toast. Dry with good, well balanced tannins, cherry and black fruit on the palate. You could enjoy this wine tonight with roast beef or try it with equal satisfaction (VINTAGES panel, March 2010) with the Imperial boneless duck!Concours General Agricole de Paris 2010, France
5th Bottle CHÂTEAU LA CHÈZE 2005
Wine: Red Wine 12.5% Alcohol/Vol　　　xd Winery/Producer: Made in: Bordeaux, France By: Bonnet-Gapenne
Type: Cabernet sauvignon (30%), Merlot (70%)　 Year: 2005
Cost: $18.95 Region: Bordeaux, France
Food to pair: 北方风味烤羊架 LCBO #: Release Date: Dec 11, 2010 #191007
Remarks:

Description 1:

From a great vintage and with some bottle evolution under its belt, this award-winning Bordeaux is a noteworthy value. On a hillside overlooking the town of Capian and the famed Garonne river, Château La Chèze was built in 1515. The Château is now home to a small family-owned winery, with 15 hectares of the 30-hectare property under vine. This 2005 vintage won a Gold Medal at the 2007 Concours Général Agricole in Paris. (Vintages Dec.11, 2 010)

Description 2:

“With its remarkable date of birth, 1515, this château has been satisfied by its precedence. However, the 2005 vintage has a more modern and sappy style. A full, enticing and silky wine with lots of character. A wine which enters the 21st century with class and elegance. Another pleasant surprise from this Premières Côtes de Bordeaux, which continues to amaze us.” (ChateauOnline)
http://www.chateauonline.co.uk/F-1001-vin/P-17378-chateau-la-cheze-2005_2000083
Matching Dishes
清炒芦笋 雪豆三鲜 中式牛柳
八珍扒大鸭 北方风味烤羊架

WYKwinos Report No. 11

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Wino  Report # 11        ~ JK ‘67                       
Date: Thursday, Dec. 2, 2010. 7pm – 10 pm
         
We made it to our first anniversary!  Here is to your health: forget apples, current research shows that a glass or two of red wine a day will keep the doctor away. Unless of course, the doctor is　drinking with you!

The theme of our anniversary tasting is a 2007 horizontal tasting of Portugal’s rapidly rising star wine region: DUORO. This tasting is a little study of similar grapes grown in the same region and in the same year.  It could be fun to appreciate how the wines end up with different flavours, and structure due to variations in altitude (micro-climate) of the terroir and technique of the wine makers.

I can ramble on and on, but to keep this report under controlled length and to deepen your understanding,  please spend a couple of minutes to read up on the article written by the multiple awards winning  English wine critique/judge Jamie Goode:

The new table wines coming from Portugal’s Douro Valley: part 1 …
(http://www.wineanorak.com/douro_overview1.htm)

Read the complete Winos Report here.

WYKwinos Report No. 10

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Date/Time: 11th November 2010, 7 p.m. (roughly 3 hours)

Place: 皇子海鲜酒家, near McCowan & Steeles

1st Bottle Cusumano Insolia
Varietal: Insolia Winery/Producer: Cusumano S.P.I.
Type: White Wine Year: 2009
Cost: $11.95 Region: Sicily, Italy
Food to pair: 黃旗班翅 LCBO #: 173336
Remarks: This wine is crafted 100% from the Insolia (aka Inzolia) grape, a Sicilian specialty. Medium straw-gold in colour, it serves up ripe pear, McIntosh apple, heady floral notes and hints of a briny sea breeze. Dry, medium bodied, textured and mouth-filling, with a gentle fruit core following through to a pleasantly refreshing finish. Enjoy as a sipper, or alongside chicken or pork kebabs with a pesto glaze.
2nd Bottle Pierre Sparr Gewurztraminer
Varietal: Gewurztraminer Winery/Producer: Maison Pierre Sparr & Successeurs
Type: White Wine Year: 2009
Cost: $16.50 Region: Alsace, France
Food to pair: 冬瓜環 LCBO #: 373373
Remarks: A classic of the genre, this wine borders on blowsy and perfumed, but it captures an interesting delicacy on the palate, as well. It is a bit soft, sweet and warm, with classic flavours of lychee, apricot, yellow plum, honey and pepper. Excellent length. Try it with curries.
3rd Bottle Sogrape Vila Regia Reserve
Varietal: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca Winery/Producer: Sogrape
Type: Red Wine Year: 2008
Cost: $12.00 Region: Portugal
Food to pair: 美極龍蝦 LCBO #: 613950
Remarks: A substantial, maturing red with a complex nose of ripe, almost dried cherry, foresty cedar and earthy scents, licorice and some lifted oak spice. Medium-full bodied, fairly dense and well structured with dry tannin and firm acidity. But there is surprising flavour richness and density as well. Very good length.
4th Bottle Château De Fontenelles Cuvée Renaissance
Varietal: 55% Syrah, 30% Grenache, Carignan and Mourvedre Winery/Producer: Thierry Tastu
Type: Red Wine Year: 2006
Cost: $19.95 Region: Languedoc, France
Food to pair: 炸子雞 LCBO #: 148692
Remarks: This blend, dominated by 55% syrah, will take you straight to the south of France. It really shows off the ripe, floral side of the variety with pronounced violets and candied violets, and beguiling sweet black berry and black raspberry character. The palate is fullish and framed by dusty tannins, while peppery flavours take over on the long finish. Tame the rustic edge with some protein and decant one hour before serving.Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2008 Concours des Grands Vins de France.
5th Bottle Grant Burge Miamba Shiraz
Varietal: Shiraz Winery/Producer: Grant Burge
Type: Red wine Year: 2008
Cost: $19.95 Region: South Australia, Australia
Food to pair: 蒜香蘑菇牛肉 LCBO #: 725127
Remarks: From a historic single vineyard at the southern end of the Barossa, this deep purple Shiraz is bursting with ripe berry, lifted floral and coconut aromas. This is a rich and opulent wine with a chewy texture, and ripe, juicy, mixed-berry and vanilla flavours balanced by firm, grainy tannins leading to a lengthy finish. It’s a ‘wow’ wine that always impresses. Decant and serve with rare roast beef au jus or rack of lamb, or cellar this big boy for up to 6 years.
Accompanying Dishes
黃旗班翅 冬瓜環 美極龍蝦
黃旗班翅 冬瓜環 美極龍蝦
龍蝦膏蒸蛋 炸子雞 蒜香蘑菇牛肉
龍蝦膏蒸蛋 炸子雞 蒜香蘑菇牛肉

Wine Cellar in the Kitchen

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Next Project – a Wine Cellar in the Kitchen!!

Plus…THe Benefits of Wine Continue reading →

WYKwinos Report No. 9

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Date/Time: 16th September 2010, 7 p.m. (roughly 3 hours)
Place: John Fung’s residence

1st Bottle Leyda Reserva Carmenère   
Varietal: Carmenère Winery/Producer: Vina Leyda Ltda
Type: Red Wine Year: 2008
Cost: $13.95 Region: Chile
Food to pair: Tortellini with Alfredo sauce, Asiago and pine nuts. LCBO #: 00066845
Remarks: Classic Reserve Carmenère comes from specific vineyards in higher elevation areas of the Rapel Valley. In these sky-bound vineyard sites, the intense heat of the day is balanced by cool temperatures at night. As a result, the fruit ripens slowly and achieves balance. Featuring aromas of plum, cedar, vanilla and smoke, this Carmenère is an excellent choice for grilled steak or even liver and onions. John’s menu: Tortellini with Alfredo sauce, Asiago and pine nuts.
2nd Bottle Rosenblum Zinfandel    
Varietal: Zinfandel Winery/Producer: Rosenblum  
Type: Red Wine Year: 2007  
Cost: $15.00 Region: California, USA  
Food to pair: Pastry in brie and fig preserve. LCBO #: 00284653  
Remarks: Rosenblum is one of California’s Zinfandel masters. This full-throttle version serves up aromas of ripe raspberries, cherries and mocha. It is full bodied, with a smooth, plush texture and rich flavours that are well balanced by acidity, all leading to a very nice spicy-berry finish. Excellent with barbecue fare, such as grilled back ribs. John’s menu: Pastry in brie and fig preserve.  
3rd Bottle Kaiken Malbec    
Varietal: Malbec Winery/Producer: Montes S.A  
Type: Red Wine Year: 2007  
Cost: $14.95 Region: Argentina  
Food to pair: Grilled Black Angus strip loin with Huangshan mushroom and Cambodian black pepper sauce. LCBO #: 00058339  
Remarks: Owned by the Chilean winery, Montes, Kaiken (pronounced Kay-ken) is named for a wild goose that flies a migratory pattern between Chile and Argentina (thus the winery’s slogan: The Best from Both Sides of the Andes). This bold Malbec features attractive aromas of blueberry, black raspberry, spice box, chocolate and sandalwood. It is dry, medium bodied with fresh fruit flavours balanced by ample acidity and ripe tannins. Enjoy this fantastic value alongside grilled lamb chops with caramelized onions. John’s menu: Grilled Black Angus strip loin with Huangshan mushroom and Cambodian black pepper sauce, zucchini, and roasted white potato flavoured with rosemary olive oil.  
   
4th Bottle Cabeça de Toiro Reserva    
Varietal: Touriga Nacional Winery/Producer: Caves Velfias  
Type: Red wine Year: 2007  
Cost: $19.95 Region: Portugal  
Food to pair: Chorizo with fava bean and buttercup squash stew. LCBO #: 00168856  
Remarks: This pretty, serious blend is built around Touriga Nacional. It opens with attractive aromas of blueberry, blackberry, plum, exotic spices and chocolate, which follow through on the palate. Dry and medium-full bodied, with ample tannic structure supporting the core of rich fruit and spice. Give this a go with braised lamb shanks or mature cheeses. John’s menu: Chorizo with fava bean and buttercup squash stew.  

WYKwinos Report No. 8

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Date/Time: August 19, 2010 – 7 p.m. (roughly 3 hours)
Place: Maple Yip Seafood Restaurant 陆羽海鲜酒家

1st Bottle Henry of Pelham Reserve off-dry Reserve  
Varietal: Riesling Winery/Producer:
Type: White Wine Year: 2008
Cost: $15.95 Region: Niagara, Ontario
Food to pair:韭菜花肚尖  与  雀巢海三鲜 LCBO #: 557165 
Remarks: LCBO comment – letting the grapes hang on the wine adds to the sweetness of this beguiling Riesling. But there is a fine natural acidity to balance the sugars. Aromas and flavours show jasmine, ginger, apples and peaches elements. It’s a pretty stuff, by Gordon Stimmell, the Toronto Star, March 13, 2010. Pairing with – Riesling is very versatile when it comes to food pairing; any fish, seafood, pork or chicken; can be a little spicy, but not too spicy that it completely overpowers the wine. 
2nd Bottle Mitolo Jester     
Varietal: Shiraz Winery/Producer:  
Type: Red Wine Year: 2007  
Cost: $21.95 Region: McLaren Vale, South Australia  
Food to pair: 黑椒焗牛柳 LCBO #: 659607  
Remarks: LCBO comment – Mitolo continues to garner international accolades under the talented hands of winemaker Ben Glaetzer and owner Frank Mitolo. Every vintage from 2001 through 2007 has received a score of 90 or above from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. Taste profile – this full-bodied, juicy Shiraz delivers upfront and approachable aromas of chocolate-covered dark cherries, anise, allspice, coffee and hints of oak. Pairing with – best with prime rib or grilled rare tuna steaks.  
3rd Bottle Gran Coronas Reserva (V)   
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon Winery/Producer: Miguel Torres S.A  
Type: Red Wine Year: 2006 & 2005  
Cost: $17.45 Region: Penedes, Spain  
Food to pair: 八宝鸭 LCBO #: 36483  
Remarks: A stunningly delicious and balanced red with full-bodied notes of black fruit, vanilla smoke, dark spices and rich mocha goodness. Crack it open beside the barbecue. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pairing with – braised veal blade and root vegetables; roast pork tenderloin; and, of course, braised eight-treasured duck.  

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WYKwinos Report No. 7

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Date/Time: July 16, 2010, 7 p.m.(roughly 3 hours)

Place: Fantaxia Restaurant樂逍遙

1nd Bottle Miguel Torres Vina Esmeralda      
Varietal: Winery/Producer: Miguel Torres S.A.
Type: White Wine Year: 2009
Cost: $12.95 Region: Penedes, Spain
Food to pair: 千島香芒帶子 LCBO #: 113696 
Remarks: A pretty blend of Moscatel de Alejandria and Gewurztraminer, Vina Esmeralda has a very seductive floral/perfumed nose. Aromas such as honeysuckle, ripe pear, custard apples, vanilla and spun sugar can all be found here. It’s a fine partner for lightly spiced seafood dishes, avocado salad or berbed chicken breast
2st Bottle Burgo Viejo Reserva 2001 Rioja          
Varietal: Winery/Producer: Bodegas De Familia Burgo Viejo  
Type: Red Wine Year: 2001  
Cost: $19.95 Region: Rioja, Spain  
Food to pair: 花彫美極牛柳粒 LCBO #: 168823  
Remarks: Deep garnet colour. This blend of Tempranillo, Graciano and Carignan features a complex collection of aromas, including plum, olive, smoked meat, strawberry and oak (they use both French and American barrels). Dry with pleasingly mature flavours and still-moderate tannins to suggest further ageing potential (2-4+ years). Medium bodied with a substantial finish. Enjoy it with roast leg of lamb or roast beef.  
3rd Bottle Bodegas Lan Crianza 2005        
Varietal: Winery/Producer: Bodegas Lan, S.A.   
Type: Red Wine Year: 2005  
Cost: $15.95 Region: Rioja, Spain  
Food to pair: 紅燒黃琪班 LCBO #: 166538  
Remarks: Light scents of crushed rose petals and frisky cherry tomato flavors give this a bright, zesty tone. The tannins are also light, with a gravelly feel. This is a versatile red for olives and jamón Serrano or more substantial meat such as duck. One of the Best Buys of 2009. Score – 90. (Wine & Spirits Buying Guide, 2010)  
   
4th Bottle Torres Gran Coronas Reserva (V)        
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon Winery/Producer: Miguel Torres S.A
Type: Red Wine Year: 2005
Cost: $17.45 Region: Penedes, Spain
Food to pair: 鹽焗走地雞 LCBO #: 36483
Remarks: A stunningly delicious and balanced red with full-bodied notes of black fruit, vanilla smoke, dark spices and rich mocha goodness. Crack it open beside the barbecue. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Food matches: braised veal blade and root vegetables, roast pork tenderloin.

WYKwinos Report No. 6

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Date/Time: June 10, 2010, 7 p.m. (roughly 3 hours)

Place: Mon Sheong Court

1nd Bottle Eugenio Collavini 2008 Sauvignon Blanc                                      

 
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc Winery/Producer: Azienda Vinicola E. Collavini
Type: White Year: 2008
Cost: $16.95 Region: Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy
Food to pair: Garden Salad + Cream of Mushroom Soup LCBO #: 93575 
Remarks: Aromatic nose evocative of white peach, cantaloupe and yellow pepper. Like flavors are replicated on the palate with added hints of lemon and cream. Wonderfully balanced and crisp. Lingering, steely finish. Score – 93. (Kerin O’Keefe, www.thewinenews.com, Sept./Oct./Nov. 2009)
2st Bottle Calvet-Thunevin Cuvee Constance 2007                                             

 

  
Varietal: Blend of old vine Grenache & Carignan Winery/Producer: Etablissements Thunevin  
Type: Red Year: 2007  
Cost: $16.95 Region: Rhone, France  
Food to pair: Rack of Lamb + Lamb chop LCBO #: 168690  
Remarks: The 2007 Constance – as usual, Grenache-based, aged part in cement and part in barrel – is vividly redolent of fresh black raspberry and blueberry. With its infectiously juicy, ‘cool’ fruit character yet at the same time a striking sense of crushed stone and graphite, this long-finishing cuvee represents an outstanding introduction to its region as well as outstanding value. Score – 90-91. (David Schildknecht, www.erobertparker.com, June 2009)  

 

Eugenio Collavini 2008 Sauvignon Blanc

Aromatic nose evocative of white peach, cantaloupe and yellow pepper. Like flavors are replicated on the palate with added hints of lemon and cream. Wonderfully balanced and crisp. Lingering, steely finish. Score – 93. (Kerin O’Keefe, www.thewinenews.com, Sept./Oct./Nov. 2009)

Release Date: Feb 20, 2010

 Agent: Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Ltd.

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 Critic Review

John Szabo

Crafted in a new world style, this sauvignon from northeastern Italy has intense aromas of passion fruit and guava, underpinned by citrus, fresh cut grass and green pea. The palate is mid-weight, balanced and juicy, with decent depth and length, finishing on lightly bitter flavours. Ready to enjoy. Value Rating: **1/2

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Calvet-Thunevin Cuvee Constance 2007

The 2007 Constance – as usual, Grenache-based, aged part in cement and part in barrel – is vividly redolent of fresh black raspberry and blueberry. With its infectiously juicy, “cool” fruit character yet at the same time a striking sense of crushed stone and graphite, this long-finishing cuvee represents an outstanding introduction to its region as well as outstanding value. Score: 90-91 (David Schildknecht, www.erobertparker.com, June 2009)

 Release Date: May 29, 201

 Agent: CALIBRIUM INTERNATIONAL

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Critic Reviews

John Szabo (Canada’s first Master Sommelier, critic for Wine Access, Wine Align etc.)

Clean, open, savoury, spicy and succulent southern French red here, with impressive flavour intensity and length at the price. This has real personality and character – perfect for a mixed grill. Tasted April 2010. Value Rating: ***

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 David Lawrason (www.DavidLawrason.com; critic for Globe & Mail ,Wine Access, Wine Align)

 Huge value from a high flying new outfit (including funding from Ch. Valandraud in Bordeaux) in the“hot” “Catalans” region near the Spanish border. Blend of old vine grenache and carignan the showy aromatics include ripe plum, sweet oak, cigar and earthy notes. It drinks the same – warm, smooth, generous and right there, with better length than expected. Some dusty tannin, but ready to go and it should last through 2014. Excellent length. Tasted May 2010

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