Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Beaujolais Nouveau etc. 2011 Picks: 6 Tasted of 6

Fading Western Sun, Tofino '99
It’s that time of year again when LCBO honours the tradition of ‘Nouveau’, wines having a freshness meant to be enjoyed within the month. Each country releases less than a dozen of the current vintage with an abbreviated fermentation process.  Beppi Crosariol’s column of October 4th tells the tale of Beaujolais Nouveau over the past few years. A tale, with a happy ending, of the effect of corporate opportunism on one of France’s prestigious wine regions.  His short video is also worth the time to view.

Konrad Ejbich (Twitter @WineZone ) tried the 2011s.  Mommessin Beaujolais Nouveau and Vignerons Catalan Primeur Syrah-Merlot were his two favourites.  Gordon Stimmell in his article November 15th (The Star) picked Mommessin Beaujolais Nouveau, Negrar Novello del Veneto and Drouhin Beaujolais-Villages Nouveau as the top three of the nine he tasted. The wines were released by the LCBO early Thursday morning.

My last tasting of Nouveau’s was November 23rd of 2010.  The results are listed below - two of the wines are repeated (>) this year:

  • Mezzacorona Novio 2010 Vino Novello di Teroldego,  89-2  --  G, Trentino, Italy,  #669275  $9.95
  • Joseph Drouhin 2010 Beaujolais Villages Nouveau, 88-1  --  V, Beaune, France, #113266 $14.95
  • >Georges DuBoeuf 2010 Beaujolais-Villages Nouveau, 88-1  --  V,  Romanèche-Thorins, France, #932780 $14.95   
  • Georges DuBoeuf 2010 Gamay Nouveau, 87-2  --  G, Ardèche, France, #891846 $8.95
  • >Cantina 2010 Novello del Veneto IGT,  86-1  --  G, Negrar, Italy, 12.0% D, #899955 $9.95
  • The Fool Reif Estate Gamay Nouveau VQA Niagara River, 83  --  G, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, #220483 $10.95
The six for a blind tasting this year were an arbitrary selection of the eleven released.

The Setup
Five of the six were setup for a blind tasting the afternoon of November 23rd with one following the next day. Notes follow.

Salut, Ww


THE LINEUP:

  • Georges DuBoeuf Beaujolais-Villages Nouveau 2011,  84  --  V, Beaujolais, France, #932780  $14.95 
  • Georges DuBoeuf  Gamay Nouveau 2011,  82  --  G, Burgundy, France, #891846  $8.95
  • Primeur Syrah 2011,  81  --  G, Pays d’Oc, France, 12.5% D, #899948  $9.95
  • Cantina Tollo Giocale Novello Rosso Terre de Chietti 2011, 81  --  G, Abruzzo, Italy, #271759  $8.95
  • Primeur Catalan Syrah-Merlot 2011, 80  --  G, Pays d’Oc, France, #220533  $9.95
  • Cantina di Negrar Novello Del Veneto 2011,  80  --  G,  Negrar, Italy, #899955  $9.95 
(G - General Listing, V - Vintages, r-v - Rating-Value)


TASTINGS:

The Result
The Reveal
Each nouveau should be allowed to mellow in the open bottle an hour if initial pouring shows exaggerated ‘bubblegum` aromas and flavours. Some may lose their freshness if left longer...  and I preferred each served at 12-14oC. The wines tasted could get along with a table of mixed cheeses, party sandwiches and crackers w/dip but let sippers do the pairing. Some just don’t go with anything. Salut, Ww

GEORGES DUBOEUF BEAUJOLAIS-VILLAGES NOUVEAU 2011 (Map it!) , Beaujolais, France, 12.5% D, #932780  $14.95  (Tasted November 23, 2011)  CS


A General listing labelled Appellation Beaujolais-Villages Controlée.  My notes: A light bubblegum -cherry/strawberry- aroma on initial pour that dissipates slowly. A lacy rim breaks into islands adding a few quick tears on the glass, no staining. A touch of tannin and a weak cherry/blueberry flavour with the ‘gum’ in the background fading to a short chalk dry finish, light-bodied. Difficult to pair, perhaps would complement a buffet hedging toward sausage pieces and mini tortières or try with rack of lamb.  84


GEORGES DUBOEUF GAMAY NOUVEAU 2011
(Map it!) , Burgundy, France, 12.5% D, #891846  $8.95  (Tasted November 23, 2011)  CS


A General listing labelled Vins de Pays de l‘Ardèche. My notes: A just perceptible soft blackberry nose from a ruby colour with a tint of blue. Slight staining, a firm film with an unbroken rim flowing a few slow legs and the first sip has a noticeable acid and drying tannins leaving a hollow flavour of dried black fruit, lightish medium-bodied. A reasonable sipper until the finish sets in then finger foods would be helpful. Let air to settle out initial mustiness. 82  


PRIMEUR SYRAH 2011, Pays d’Oc, France, 12.5% D, #899948  $9.95  (Tasted November 23, 2011)  CS


A General listing produced by Maison Jean Jean.  My notes: There`s a purple tint to an insipid ruby and the rim stays firm shedding long fast legs. A sniff is a bearable strawberry liquorice - no sign of pepper. There is a herbal hint to a light berry flavour on first sipping, atypical of the varietal, and an aftertaste similar to that chewing a red jelly bear. A short finish, light bodied and dry. If the buffet is handy try with tomato bruschetta but the oregano may object.  81   


 
CANTINA TOLLO GIOCALE NOVELLO ROSSO TERRE DI CHIETI 2011, Abruzzo, Italy, 12.5% D, #271759  $8.95  (Tasted November 23, 2011)  CS


A General listing.  My notes:  A deep purple, regal in the glass with a soft berry nose after airing. Soft on the palate on first sip with a touch of berry and balanced acid for flavouring with a mild tannin. Dry with a moderate acid makes this a general crowd sipper - not a conversation starter but one to keep the party going if an open bar.  Have with a tray of mixed crackers and cheeses.  81


PRIMEUR CATALAN SYRAH-MERLOT 2011, Pays d’Oc, France, 12.5% D, #220533  $9.95  (Tasted November 23, 2011)  CS


A General listing produced by Vignerons Catalans. My notes: A strongly perfumed raspberry-strawberry liquorice stick nose, delicious if you like perfume with your wine. A purple tinged ruby, a light film that separates quickly into fast tears and the first sip is well balanced - flavour, tannin, acid - with little aspect of `liquorice`.  Lightish medium-bodied and frivolous, a smoother b-n where the nose infuses the flavour. Have on an occasion as a substitute to marshmallows and cream soda.  80


CANTINA DI NEGRAR NOVELLO DEL VENETO 2011 (Map it!) ,  Negrar, Italy, 12.0% D, #899955  $9.95  (Tasted November 24, 2011)  CS


A General listing.  My notes:  A loose cork went in rather than out forcing some unwanted spray when this bottle was opened. Not included in the blind tasting but was rated separately. A normal ruby with a firm film and columns of slow legs - a light staining on the glass. Not the ‘airplane dope’ aromas of last year, this vintage there’s no nose to speak of. The first sip has a smoothness introducing flavours of berries lasting a short while before ending smooth and dry. Light-bodied and lightly flavoured makes this a passable sipper and some affiliation with chicken or pork entrees. A novello with little character but very quaffable.  80

Tuesday, November 01, 2011

November 2011 Whites+: 16 Tasted of 16

Montreal Olympic Place, '78
This month I've separated Reds from the rest, Whites+. Hopefully this simplifies finding a specific wine and for editing. The Intro is repeated in both.


Several factors instigated my collection of wines for November:
  • My BH had a beautiful Pinot Noir from Oregon when dining with friends. This led to the Chelalem Pinot as well as the Chelalem Pinot Gris purchased for my natal day... and I've added a few more to compare.
  • Never having used Vintages OnLine service I reviewed the wines they had available. Unsurprisingly most of the offerings were in a much higher price bracket than my budget… one exception was the Sarah Powell Pinot Noir reduced by $10 to $29. Worth a try? I’ll see.
  • Beppi Crosariol in his article of October 20th gave high 80’s for a few economical wines thus the French Malbec, the BC Cab Merlot and Chilean Syrah were added. This list was expanded to include three Mission Hill’s, four Cono Sur’s and three Argentine’s from the General shelves. I’ve been neglecting the Generals lately due to a focus on Niagara wines. 
  • Three French bubblies, one from Alsace near the border with Germany, one from the west of mid centre, one from the south near the Mediterranean and, while we`re there, a couple of Provence XD rosés, my favourites.
...and thanks for the suggestions in Tweets received.  Salut, Ww

THE LINEUP - grouped by whites, rosés, sparkles and other:

  • Emiliana Natura Un-oaked Chardonnay 2011, 90-2 --  V, Casablanca Valley, Chile,  #061895  $15.95
  • Carmen Reserva Chardonnay 2010, 89-2 --  G, Casablanca Valley, Chile, #235663 $10.95 
  • Cono Sur Viognier 2010,  84  --  G, Colchagua Valley, Chile,  #064287  $10.00
  • Mission Hill ‘Five Vineyards’ Pinot Blanc 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley,  84  --  G, BC, Canada,  #145094  $14.95
  • Chehalem Reserve Pinot Gris 2007,  82  --  V,  Willamette Valley, Oregon, #180372 $22.95
  • Hahn Estates Chardonnay Monterey 2008, 81 --  G, Soledad, California, #234393 $16.95  
  • Cono Sur Riesling 2011,  80  --  G, Central Valley, Chile,  #156653  $9.95  
  • Cono Sur Chardonnay Organic 2011, 80  --  G, San Antonio Valley, Chile, #230565  $11.95
  • Mission Hill ‘Five Vineyards’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley,  80  --  G, BC, Canada, #145086  $14.95    

  • Château de Trinquevedel Tavel Rosé 2010, 89-1  --  V,  Tavel, France, #729947 $17.95
  • The Wolftrap Rosé 2010,  88-1  --  V, Franschoek, South Africa, #169409  $12.95
  • Domaine Houchart Côtes de Provence Rosé 2010,  88-1  --  V,  Aix-en-Provence, France, #118653 $13.95
  • Finca Flichman 'Misterio' Rosé Malbec-Shiraz 2010, 85 --  G, Mendoza, Argentina,  #170126 $8.20 

  • Brisebarre Brut Vouvray NV,  89-1 --  V,  Loire, France, #226241  $18.95
  • Mausberg Brut Blanc de Blancs Crémant d’Alsace NV,  88-1 --  V,  Beblenheim, France,  #171785 $17.95
  • Antech ‘Expression’ Brut Crémant de Limoux 2008,  88-1 --  V, Limoux, France, #068239  $17.95
(G - General Listing, V - Vintages,  r-v - Rating-Value)

TASTINGS:
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CHEHALEM RESERVE PINOT GRIS 2007, Willamette Valley, Oregon, 13.5% D, #180372  $22.95  (Tasted November 21, 2011)  CS


Released by Vintages on November 13, 2010.  This has an old rating of 92 (February 1, 2009) by Paul Gregutt (Wine Enthusiast).   My notes:The film is thin showing a lacy rim immediately that recedes slowly without tears.  A faint nose not discernibly aromatic and a first sip that is nippy and lacking distinguishable flavours, a tame grapefruit perhaps. Light-bodied, a short finish leaving the palate dry and grassy. Was OK with Cuban cod with tomatoes with a broccoli side but not contributing much as a partner. Could be past peak if a 92 two years ago.  A drink now. 82


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CONO SUR RIESLING 2011, Central Valley, Chile, 13.0% D, #156653  $9.95  (Tasted November 17, 2011)  CS
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A General listing. My notes: A pale yellow with a subtle scent of grapefruit. A swirl leaves a lacy rim that recedes slowly until nothing. The first sip has flavours of lemon-lime with a balanced acid, tangy not sharp and declines slowly, evenly until a dryness takes over. Refreshing as an aperitif or midday sipper and should go well with grilled seafood and asparagus - not likely roast chicken nor pork. A reasonable impression of a riesling and for the price should appeal to patrons at a stand-up bar.  80
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CONO SUR VIOGNIER 2010, Colchagua Valley, Chile, 14.0% D, #064287  $10.00  (Tasted November 6, 2011)  CS

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A General listing. My notes:  There’s a greenish tint to the clear new gold colour. The film sticks to the glass, runs slow tears then breaks into fragmented islands. Hardly a scent in the nose, perhaps a lemon/melon combination and the first sip is smooth, tangy, full-bodied and has a tropical citrus flavour. The finish has a lemongrass aftertaste riding on the silky texture. Pair with any seafood or grilled white fowl entrée. Not a floral or delicate Viognier although has some interesting qualities in its fullness. If you are looking for Viognier there’s other choices. If you’re looking for a rounded, smooth textured meal white this is an economical choice. A drink now and preferred to the Cono Sur Chardonnay Organic. 84
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CONO SUR CHARDONNAY ORGANIC 2011, San Antonio Valley, Chile, 13.5% D, #230565  $11.95  (Tasted November 2, 2011)  CS
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A General listing. My notes:  A just perceptible aroma of honey and grapefruit when chilled becoming more prominent gaining a perfumed scent as the wine warms. The colour is a shiny light lemon and leaves a light film with a solid rim shedding a few slow tears. A touch of silk with a sweet-edged lemon flavour followed by an intense tang then finishing tart and grassy. A refreshing sipper for a hot day or a straightforward complement with diner meals - went nicely with Longo’s grilled salmon burgers and sweet potato fries. A commercial beverage to appeal to an on-the-go urban consumer.  80
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MISSION HILL  'FIVE VINEYARDS' PINOT BLANC 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada, 13.5% D, #145094    $14.95  (Tasted November 10, 2011)  CS

A General listing. My notes:  A light golden in the glass with the subtle sweet scent of mown hay. The film sticks then slowly fragments evenly down the glass. Nicely tart with some roundness and a slight flavour of light honey barely sweet or balanced with the tart of white grapefruit. Finishes with a light crushed seed dryness. Clean and crisp on the palate and has an interesting but not outstanding character, as a sipper better offchill slightly - pair with a seafood entrée or a green salad. Not for cellaring - a drink now.  84
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MISSION HILL 'FIVE VINEYARDS' SAUVIGNON BLANC 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada, 13.5% D, #145086   $14.95  (Tasted November 17, 2011)  CS


A General listing. My notes:  Chill well, below 12oC, before serving to retain meagre aroma and fruit otherwise expect a flat profile. A bland blond colour with a nose that’s just discernible as soft melon. The first sip has a lemon and melon aspect with a light tang.  Finishes with soft fruit and modest acid leaving a slight flavour blend and dry.  I found it difficult to pair - try with a buffet of finger foods, party shrimp or hummus and dry crackers. Has an interesting depth when quaffed and character builds with each sip. Not for cellaring and disappointing compared with a varietal driven SB - Bordeaux or New Zealand. 80



EMILIANA NATURA UN-OAKED CHARDONNAY 2011, Casablanca Valley, Chile, 14.0% XD, #061895   $15.95  (Tasted November 13, 2011)  CS


Released by Vintages on October 29, 2011. My notes: A new gold with a green tint and an aroma of green grapefruit, a hint of pear and a touch of vanilla for a nose. A lacy rim forms immediately and slides quickly down the glass. The first taste has a full nip front to back side to side with a silkiness adding interest to lightly rounded flavours of honeydew melon and pear. The taste continues through a long warm finish ending with only a suspicion of fruity sweetness - quite delicious. Cellaring for several years could hold a surprise - perhaps four years tops.  An honest expression of a terroir biased chard.  90

CARMEN RESERVA CHARDONNAY 2010, Casablanca Valley, Chile, 13.5% D, #235663  $10.95  (Tasted November 21, 2011)  CS


A General listing. My notes:  A Reserva for $11 - I must not understand how the term applies but who pays attention to labels at this price point? The colour is a light gold, crystal clean. The nose needs time to establish a presence then a delicate melon with a tinge of spicy floral. A swirl leaves long legs from a lacy rim slow to recede breaking into columns. The first sip, medium-bodied, mixes softness with a light tang and apricot melon flavours. Warm on the throat and a moderate length ending soft. Has a full character evenly divided between texture, spicy depth and soft fruit so delivers overall. Serve well chilled and watch for changes. Will match with Cuban-inspired Cod on Tomatoes tonight - was an excellent match. Cellaring for several years should be OK - didn’t sense too much grass to come forward. 89



HAHN ESTATES CHARDONNAY MONTEREY 2008, Soledad, California, 14.6% D, #234393  $16.95  (Tasted November 14, 2011)  CS


A General listing. My notes:  A pale yellow with a faint citrus aroma. A swirl leaves a firm film that‘s slow to shed tiny tears.  There’s a reasonable softness and round texture to the first sip, a shallow acid accompanies a leaf and bramble flavour that continues to a long dry finish. Did not pair well with roast chicken with root vegetables and rosemary. Not that interesting as a sipper. Has the tang but lacks sufficient flavour to complement other entrees - perhaps would go with fresh oysters. 81


FINCA FLICHMAN MISTERIO ROSÉ MALBEC-SHIRAZ 2010, Mendoza, Argentina, 13.0% D, #170126  $8.20  (Tasted November 3, 2011)  CS
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A General listing. My notes: A raspberry red, clear and bright and an aroma of fresh red cherry and subtle Melba apple gives this appeal for two senses. Serve chilled there’s a silkiness to flavours of a red cherry and raspberry blend, a dryness edged with a suspicion of natural sugar leading into a long finish ending chalk dry.  A light hearted beverage for an afternoon social or lo-cal luncheon sipper, before and after, not during unless it‘s warmed Maple syrup on hot waffles. A drink now.  85






CHÂTEAU DE TRINQUEVEDEL TAVEL ROSÉ 2010, Tavel, France, 13.5% XD, #729947  $17.95  (Tasted November 20, 2011)  CS

Released by Vintages  on May 28, 2011. Produced by the Demoulin family from the same sand and pebbly vineyards for four generations.   My notes:  The route from Tavel to Aix-en-Provence - charming contryside and countless value wines. A candied cherry red in a tulip glass  with a faint cherry nose that presumes some sweetness and a touch of floral. The first sip has enough sharpness to gain immediate attention. A sour cherry flavour has a natural sugary edge and leaves an oil slick on the lips. The finish is smooth throughout with a watermelon and cherry blend set off by a satin dryness. Have as a summer sipper with two maraschino cherries and crushed ice or as an aperitif before a seafood entrée or with crab crêpes. A drink now. 89

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DOMAINE HOUCHART CÔTES DE PROVENCE ROSÉ 2010, Aix-en-Provence, France, 13.0% XD, #118653  $13.95  (Tasted November 9, 2011)  CS
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Released by Vintages on September 3, 2011. Produced by Domaine Quiot family from Chateauneuf-du-Pape. A blend of 35% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 20% Cinsault, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Mourvèdre and 5% other grapes.  My notes: A powder puff pink with a salmon blush. A subtle scent of peeled Melba apple and peach. A thin film quickly fragmenting leaving a few isolated islands on the glass. So far, a moderate but positive appeal. The first sip has the smoothness of sprinkled talc, a tang that prickles the tongue and flavour of almost ripe red cherries. A lightish medium-bodied sipper with a lingering allure... and enough there to balance a plate of crispy critters and sweet potato fries. I’d be tempted to cellar this a year or two looking for additional depth. 88
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ANTECH 'EXPRESSION' BRUT CRÉMANT DE LIMOUX 2008, Limoux, France  12.0% XD, #068239  $17.95  (Tasted November 20, 2011) CS

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Released by Vintages on May 14, 2011 and is made in the traditional method using a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Mauzac (the traditional principal variety of Limoux in Languedoc).  My notes:  A burst of fine bubbles on pouring with streams of fine bubbles continuing to rise from the glass gives a festive first impression. A light blond colour and a slight pie dough aroma. Bubbles continue to form the rim encouraging a first sip. Serve well chilled for the spritz bite and an extra dry layering, a mineral flavouring, a smooth texture and touch of lime. The finish extends the flavours until declining to a delicate yeasty aftertaste. An oyster partner for sure… or shelled crustaceans on a stick then bbq’d to a pinkish hue. We’re having between bites of chicken Wellingtons and roast butternut squash - just OK - light on complementing flavours. 88
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BRISEBARRE BRUT VOUVRAY NV, Loire, France, 12.5% XD, #226241  $18.95  (Tasted November 15, 2011)  CS

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Released by Vintages on October 1, 2011 and is made in the traditional method using 100% Chenin Blanc. My notes:  A touch of pastry dough and a sniff of apple - together it’s subtle apple pie. The initial burst of bubbles subsides quickly leaving streams of tiny ones mysteriously springing from the glass. A mid gold colour and a thin lacy rim sets the start of tasting. A strong spritz on the tongue brightens an initial softness and the flavour of tart apple skins wakes the palate. Have with seafoods, fish or crustaceans, lightly grilled or shrimps with a coconut shell. Cellaring for several years should prove interesting possibly introducing more ‘cream’.  Quite refreshing now and for many occasions.  89
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MAUSBERG BRUT BLANC DE BLANCS CRÉMANT D'ALSACE NV, Beblenheim, France, 12.0% XD, #171785  $17.95  (Tasted November 19, 2011) CS
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Release by Vintages on July 23, 2011.  My notes: Produced by Cave de Hoen. You can hear the smoothness in the first pour. A burst of fine mousse quickly settling to steady streams. Serve well chilled and let the changes meet your mood - from sharp and metallic to mellow and mallible. The fruit,  more nuances that outright flavours, is of melon and apple. The finish is fairly short ending dry with some chalk to go with a mild tang. Have with grilled chicken or seafood. Better to have on a sunny afternoon or with a late breakfast omelette - hold the ketchup. Could have more flavour but it’s Pinot Blanc and Pinot Auxerrois so expect modesty. Keep on hand up to a year. 88
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THE WOLFTRAP ROSÉ 2010, Franschoek, South Africa, 13.5% MD, #169409  $12.95  (Tasted November 7, 2011)  CS

Released by Vintages on July 9, 2011. Produced by Boekenhoutskloof and a blend of 66% Syrah, 20% Cinsault and 14% Grenache. Rated 88 by Stephen Tanzer of International Wine Cellar (Mar/Apr 2011).  My notes:  The Wolftrap White 2010 was recommended by Sarah Ahmed (@sarahwine)  ‘The Wine Detective, an independent, award-winning wine writer and communicator’ according to her website. The white is no longer available at Vintages so I’ll try their rosé, a similar blend to the southern France roses and a coquettish salmon pink. However, with Mourvèdre missing and higher Syrah content the profile has a spicier nose and flavouring and a lighter body. The sweet is not intrusive and there's a slight herbal edge to a white cherry scent that’s also reflected in the flavour. Medium-bodied with an appealing smoothness and finishing with spice and cherry remnants. An interesting sipper for its different terroir and blending. Introduce as a mystery sipper for an afternoon tasting or have as a prelude to a bouillabaisse or seafood entrée. Cellaring for a few years should be OK.  88

November 2011 Reds: 14 Tasted of 14

Shore leave
This month I've separated Reds from the rest, Whites+. Hopefully to simplify finding a specific wine and editing. The Intro is repeated in both.

Several factors instigated my collection of wines for November:
  • My BH had a beautiful Pinot Noir from Oregon when dining with friends. This led to the Chelalem Pinot as well as the Chelalem Pinot Gris purchased for my natal day... and I've added a few more to compare.
  • Never having used Vintages OnLine service I reviewed the wines they had available. Unsurprisingly most of the offerings were in a much higher price bracket than my budget… one exception was the Sarah Powell Pinot Noir reduced by $10 to $29. Worth a try? I’ll see.
  • Beppi Crosariol in his article of October 20th gave high 80’s for a few economical wines thus the French Malbec, the BC Cab Merlot and Chilean Syrah were added. This list was expanded to include three Mission Hill’s, four Cono Sur’s and three Argentine’s from the General shelves. I’ve been neglecting the Generals lately due to a focus on Niagara wines. 
  • Four French bubblies, two from Alsace near the border with Germany, one from the west of mid centre, one from the south near the Mediterranean and, while we`re there, a couple of Provence XD rosés, my favourites.
...and thanks for the suggestions in Tweets received.

And a Happy Hallowe'en... Ww


THE LINEUP - reds:

  • Majella The Musician Cabernet Shiraz 2009, 92-2  --  V,  Coonawarra, Australia,   #142018  $19.95 
  • Thelema Shiraz 2006,  92-2  --  V, Stellenbosch, South Africa, #146431 $19.95   
  • Cono Sur Reserva Syrah 2008,  91-3  --  G, Colchagua Valley, Chile,  #221820  $12.95
  • Hungerford Hill Fishcage Shiraz 2009, 91-2 --  V, New South Wales, Australia, #077958 $15.95 
  • Chehalem 3 Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008, 91-1  --  V,  Willamette Valley, Oregon, #949909   $28.95 
  • Hahn Winery Monterey Pinot Noir 2008, 89-2  --  G, Soledad, California, #226555 $18.95
  • Georges Vigouroux Pigmentum Malbec 2008,  88-2  --  G, Cahors, France, D 13.5%, #255182  $11.95* 
  • Mission Hill ‘Five Vineyards’ Cabernet Merlot 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley,  88-1  --  G, BC, Canada,  #145102  $16.45  
  • Prelius Meremma Toscana Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, 88-1  --  V, Tuscany, Italy,  #224022  $17.95 
  • Amity Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2007, 87 --  G,  Amity, Oregon, #124594  $20.95* 
  • Sarah Powell Windridge Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007,  87  --  VOL,  McMinnville, Oregon, #076422 *$29.00 (reduced from $39.00) 
  • Liberty School Zinfandel 2008,  86  --  V, Paso Robles, California,  #041095   $18.95 
  • Finca Flichman ‘Misterio’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2010,  82  --  G,  Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina, #163949  $8.00
  • Finca Flichman ‘Misterio’ Malbec 2010,  82 --  G, Mendoza, Argentina, #028803  $8.20             

(G - General Listing, V - Vintages, VOL - Vintages OnLine,  r-v - Rating-Value, * - See notes)

TASTINGS:

CHEHALEM 3 VINEYARD PINOT NOIR 2008, Willamette Valley, Oregon, 13.1%  XD, #949909   $28.95  (Tasted November 26, 2011)  CS


Released by Vintages on September 17, 2011.  Harvey Steiman  called it  a smart buy with a 91 rating (December 31, 2010).   My notes:  A blend of grapes from three estate vineyards: Stoller (45%), Corral Creek (30%) and Ridecrest (25%).  A see through ruby with a garnet cast and a dusty, delicate blackberry nose after a short airing. Leaves a thin film with an unbroken rim. Swirl and wait ten minutes for the first sip to warm the throat and put down a silky layer for a blend of crushed cherries and blueberries. Mellowing comes with further sipping as the finish dries the palate and flavours change. Acid, tannin and fruit are well balanced and all are delicate. Pair with a tuna steak or grilled halibut, with pork tenderloin or veal - an elegant, not demonstrative, sipper.  91


SARAH POWELL WINDRIDGE VINEYARD PINOT NOIR 2007, Rogue Valley, McMinnville, Oregon, 13.7% XD, #076422  *$29.00 (reduced from $39.00)  (Tasted November 28, 2011)  CS



A Vintages OnLine Exclusives  Ordered Oct 5 & received Oct 15.  The Powell family has elected to continue the Sarah Powell wine label after her premature death (at the age of 41) in 2004. The wines are now made by Laurent Montelieu.  My notes: A see-through ruby and subtle aromas difficult to define, a light plum/cherry.  A swirl leaves a lacy rim slowly shedding tears and forming jagged islands. The first sip is drying continuing into a warm tannic finish. lightish medium-bodied with flavours of crushed cherry pits that predominate sip and finish. Paired nicely with Roast Duck and Vegetables (a super recipe) not competing with the flavours. Should do OK with tuna steak or a roast turkey with cranberries. Past cellaring likely on the downside. 87

PRELIUS MEREMMA TOSCANA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2008, Tuscany, Italy, 13.5% D, #224022  $17.95  (Tasted November 6, 2011)  CS
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Released by Vintages on July 23, 2011.  Rated 89 by  Antonio Galloni (August 2010) Organically farmed vines cared for by Federica Mascheroni Stianti, Castello de Volpaia.  My notes:  Decant or air for a half hour to allow aromas to develop as earthy and spicy black currant. The colour is a rich ruby a deep see through and a swirl gives a firm film shedding a solid rim of slow tears. Furry tannins on the tongue, a red currant flavour and tart acids start the first sip then shift to moderate acid with declining fur and a dry brambly finish. Medium-bodied with no sense of sweet and paired well with roast prime rib with Yorkshire pudds and parsnips. May keep a year or two but primarily a drink now.  88

LIBERTY SCHOOL ZINFANDEL 2008, Paso Robles, California, 13.5% D, #041095   $18.95  (Tasted November 10, 2011)  CS
 
Released by Vintages on October 15, 2011.  My notes: Tasted the 2007 in July 2010 and rated it 90 altho’ thinking it may be a challenge to pair. The 2008 has a curious scent of herbs and berries adding a mild spice. Lots of dust from pulling the cork and the film is fairly thin fragmenting quickly down to the surface. Medium-bodied, muted flavours of berries, a touch of mushroom, warm and mellowing out to a long dry finish. I’d say a mixed terroir dominates this Zin with a swayed flavour spectrum, not unpleasant, just not fruit dominant. Have with grilled pork, ham steaks or a beef stir-fry. Not much tp gain by cellaring - a pleasing drink now. 86

MAJELLA THE MUSICIAN CABERNET SHIRAZ 2009, Coonawarra, Australia, 14.5% XD, #142018   $19.95  (Tasted November 8, 2011)  CS


Release by Vintages on September 3, 2011 and a blend of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon and 43% Shiraz. Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW rated it 91 (October 2010)  www.erobertparker .com   My notes: Tasted the 2008 in January this year and rated it 92 but recommended cellaring ‘several years’ rather drinking now and a ‘wine for scotch drinkers’.  The 2009 has the same rich ruby colour and leaves a firm film with a solid rim shedding columns of slow moving tears. This is both spicy and smooth, intense aromas of black currants and mild pepper with a welcoming warmth of a southern sun. The first sip comes in a metal wrap and continues bone dry, warm and ends with an acerbic touch. More moderate than the 2008 but still a full-bodied flavourful sipper. Pair with seasoned grilled meats, domesticated or wild. Eligible for cellaring several years.  92
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GEORGES VIGOUROUX  PIGMENTUM MALBEC 2008, Cahors, France, D 13.5%, #255182  $11.95*  (Tasted November 13, 2011) CS

A General listing and reduced from $13.95. Rated 87 by Beppi Crosariol.   My notes:  There’s a purple tint to a dense ruby and an herbal scent to aromas of stewed plums. A swirl sets a firm film that sheds columns of slow tears from a solid rim.  Medium- to full bodied, a thin tannin for dryness and subtle spice with mild flavours of black berries and light tobacco. The finish is true to the first sip continuing until a dry palate. A welcoming sipper with a good balance of fruit, acid and subtle process. Cellaring for several years would work but drinking well now. A rack of lamb and thou... super!  88

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CONO SUR RESERVA SYRAH 2008, Colchagua Valley, Chile, 13.5% D, #221820  $12.95  (Tasted November 21, 2011)  CS

A General listing. Rated 89 by Beppi Crosariol.   My notes: A smooth rim with long fast legs tells the tale of a silky texture. A garnet toned ruby and a nose that is reserved being nicely balanced between spice and blackberry with a touch of tobacco. The first sip confirms ‘silk’, a nice fullness showing a soft tannin, a delicate berry fruit and subtle spice. An excellent sipper for an open bar and good social company or have with grilled beef, rack of lamb or short ribs - that kind of red. Quaff for a sensual treat. Cellaring for several years is still there.  91
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THELEMA SHIRAZ 2006, Helshoogtze, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 14.5% XD, #146431   $19.95  (Tasted November 22, 2011)  CS

Released by Vintages on June 11, 2011. Rated 92 by James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com (April 30, 2010).   My notes:  A garnet cast deep ruby colour with berry and spicy plum aromas. The film sticks well staying until a few long columns fall slowly. Smooth, full tannins, spicy bite and ripened berry compote flavours make this a very attractive sipper for those liking full-bodied and warm. The finish keeps true to the varietal carrying a softness along with a light and spicy flavouring. Five years in the bottle and showing very well… perhaps another five years in the cellar? More of an Australian shiraz in character but not as ‘in your face’. Have with anything grilled and meaty. 92  


MISSION HILL  'FIVE VINEYARDS' CABERNET MERLOT 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada, 13.5% D, #145102  $16.45  (Tasted November 17, 2011)  CS

A General listing. Rated 88 by Beppi Crosariol.   My notes: An ebony cast ruby colour, dense in the glass. The nose has the softness of fresh blueberries and the warm and woody spice of black berries. The film sheds long tears quickly while the rim fragments into jagged islands. Soft, spice, earth and black fruit come through on the first sip warming the throat and leaving prominent flavours on the palate. Interesting for its change from sip to savour - medium-bodied and dry. Perhaps a touch of mineral at the end offsets the fruit but adds to its interest as well. May not improve with cellaring for a few years but likely won’t lessen its appeal. 88

AMITY VINEYARDS WILLAMETTE VALLEY PINOT NOIR 2007, Amity, Oregon, 12.5% D, #124594  $20.95*  (Tasted November 3, 2011)  CS


A General listing reduced from *$24.95 until Nov 6, 2011. My notes: This Pinot is a see through red and, after airing a short while, has a balanced flavour blend of spicy blackberries and raspberries. A swirl brings a solid rim that fragments into columns of slow tears, a few to begin then more. Light-bodied, smooth, dry tannins, a respectable tang and light fruit start a sip - quaff for more prominence. Pork tenderloin slices with soya seasoned rice and spicy salsa suited this red’s calming influence. Cellaring a short time should be doable but near peak - going or coming? Almost a value at the lower price. 87


HAHN WINERY PINOT NOIR MONTEREY 2008, Soledad, California, 14.5% D, #226555  $18.95  (Tasted November 13, 2011)  CS

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A General listing. My notes: A black cherry red and a scent of black cherry drenched in an old port, warm and fruity. The film leaves a solid rim shedding slow tears. Silky, dry, a light flavour of black cherries wrapped in tang and finishing lightish of medium-body with extended acid ending dry and flavourful. Have as a sipper with a buffet of hors d’oeuvres: bacon bits on French toasts, sausage pieces and dips, stuffed mushrooms, etc. Worth cellaring a few more years. A flexible performer as an all-round pinot - bound to please.  89
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HUNGERFORD HILL FISHCAGE SHIRAZ 2009, New South Wales, Australia, 14.5% D, #077958  $15.95  (Tasted November 12, 2011)  CS
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Released by Vintages on October 29, 2011. My notes:  A purple ruby, regal and dense, swirling a rim that cascades columns of slow tears as well as fragmenting into lacy islands. The nose has a whisper of barnyard dissipating quickly and a spicy aroma of subdued blackberries. The first sip brightens the whole mouth with a tangy silk, warming the throat then laying out a dryness that carries through a long bramble finish. A pleasing and interesting mouthwash. Have with bbq’d ribs, back or side, preferably beef, a tasty stew or shank of lamb. Cellaring for several years is likely - I’d go year by year.  91
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FINCA FLICHMAN   MISTERIO CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010, Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina, 13.0% D, #163949  $8.00  (Tasted November 1, 2011)  CS
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A General listing and a Finca Flichman wine.  My notes: Let air twenty minutes for aroma and flavours to settle - or disregard the first couple of sips. There’s a mild scent of black berries and smoke from a see-through garnet ruby. The film is smooth and runs fast legs from an unbroken rim. Medium-bodied, smooth with firm tannins and a tart tang that frame a touch of blackberries, earthy tobacco and liquorice - well balanced but could use more fruit and depth to increase sip appeal. Have with meat lover’s pizza or a grilled striploin. A drink now for a low budget cash bar or a restaurant with a 3.5X markup.  82
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FINCA FLICHMAN MISTERIO MALBEC 2010, Mendoza, Argentina, 13.0% D, #028803  $8.20  (Tasted November 15, 2011) CS
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A General listing. My notes: A thin film with a lacy rim that edges down the glass and a pleasing berry aroma. There’s a slight purple cast to the ruby colour, fairly dense but clean and clear in a bright light. The first sip is medium-bodied with overripe berries, a firm tannin with high acid then drops quickly to a dry bramble finish. Acceptable but a tad rough if you ‘keep sipping’. Pair with lightly grilled meats, hamburgers or pizzas with a Perrier afterward to reset the palate.  An economical drink now.  82