Tuesday, January 03, 2012

sambadays Gift-box Experiences - updated Jan 5th

... First posted December 27th, 2011
I never knew it existed! ...until Christmas morning opening my gifts. A package the size of a CD/DVD but containing a variety of ‘Gifts’ packaged as activities involving the recipient in an exciting adventure. Everything from Balloon Rides to Night Outs, from Spa treatments to Skydiving... and much more.  To be given at Christmas, on a special occasion or as Corporate awards sambadays sources to partners the elements needed as part of each package. Their website describes the numerous, as well as the newest, ‘Gift-box experiences’ available. 

Categories of Gift-boxes:

  • Adventure
    • Explore
    • Action and Adventure
  • Life and Culture
    • Live and Learn
  • Golf
  • Gourmet
    • Shared Plates
    • Table for Two
    • Chef at Home
  • Body and Soul
    • Rejuvenate
    • Pamper and Wellness
  • Wine
    • Wine and Tour
    • Global Wine
  • Getaway
    • Gourmet Getaway


As a Christmas gift I received the Global Wine package and the WineOnLine Marketing Company is sambadays’ fulfilment partner.

Global Wine

‘Activation’ is the first of a 3 step process and simply means registering the fourteen digit number, found on the small card that comes with the Gift-box, on sambadays website. 

This package contains a choice of 10 wine styles (see photo) from which 6 bottles can be ordered from the partner. Included in the package are food recipes “to help accentuate your wine experience”, two Riedel glasses, a Vinturi aerator, tasting notes and Shipping costs. 
To help me decide what to order there is a card describing each style. For example, ‘Smooth and Silky Reds’ are said to be wines having “a firm yet distinctively soft texture, smooth, mellow, with no rough edges. Tannins and acids are well married and folded into the wine. When the wine is bigger, more opulent, the word ’velvety’ is often used. As you taste, feel the wine in your muoth, roll it around, noting not just flavor but texture as well. Soft & silky, young pinot noirs, mellow perfumed reds with lots of red fruit flavors.  Riojas, Chiantis and some creamy Malbecs will fall into this experience.”

The next step is up to me. I must:
  • Activate
  • Choose a Style
  • Order my Global Wines
…but first I’ll need to talk to the Partner to find out what's available.

My first choice is ‘Aromatic Whites’ with the expectation of receiving wines with “intense aromas and flavours that come from their particular grape variety, whether they are off dry or dry. … Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Pinot Gris and Riesling…”

… and in case this doesn’t pan out

My backup choice is ’Intense and Bold Reds’ with the expectation of receiving wines from “warmer wine producing regions such as Australia, Southern Italy, Spain, Portugal and California. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Zinfandel are typical varieties”.

I believe I’m ready to call WineOnLine.  Stay tuned…I'll let you know how I make out.


…cont’d December 28th, 2011
A short conversation with the WineOnLine rep arranged for delivery of 6 bottles to my address in Mississauga.

However there are some restrictions imposed by Ontario’s monopoly, the LCBO. From a consumer perspective the following are completely arbitrary only enforced by an arrogant disrespect for the wine buying public and burdensome bureaucratic oversight.

  • An option on the WineOnLine website labelled Mix-a-Six  provides for mixing 6 wines if and only if they are from the same participating Ontario winery. Several wineries however have limited selections.
  • If imported wines are requested all six must be same label and may be limited to certain wines imported in 6 bottle cases.

A minor issue is a Vinturi aerator for white wines is not available. An aerator from another manufacturer can be substituted. Basically, the elegant descriptions of ‘10 wine styles’ are well intentioned but not pertinent in Ontario.

… cont’d January 3rd, 2012
A call from WineOnLine puts shipment within the week via Canada Post. For a wine selection a 2009 Dolcetto d’Alba  was recommended which I accepted after a review of the tasting notes and heritage.
Unpacked

 ... cont'd January 5th, 2012
.
Gift as received
A second call from WineOnLine scheduled a personal rather than a Canada Post delivery for today. The Gift is shown as received then as unpacked. Imagine. A real person at the door and offering me the choice of Riedel 'O' or Riedel Pinot Noir Stemware wine glasses.
Not included, and not a concern, were “food recipes to help accentuate your wine experience”.
The Ellana Dolcetto d'Alba has been added to my tastings for January 2012 Wines. 

 Overall the contents are top quality and, separately priced, would be $230+ incl. shipping and taxes.  I appreciated the options of glassware, wines - which are not available at Outlets - and the attention from WOL considering having to comply with arbitrary LCBO restrictions. The only suggestion I have is for sambadays to clarify their wine packages to reflect Ontario laws. Anyhoo, it's a terrific Gift approach!

 Now to taste the wine!

Cheers, Ww
at No comments:

Sunday, January 01, 2012

2011 2nd Half Summary - Whites+

November View '11
The Whites+, including Rosés and Sparklings tasted from July 1st to the end of 2011, are listed below.  Shown in bracket is the month of tasting where the original notes can be found.

 For a list of Reds click on REDS. For an introduction and interpretation of the numbers click on  INTRO.


Whites:

  1. Charles Baker Picone Vineyard Stratus Riesling 2008 VQA Vinemount Ridge,  93-2  --  V, NOTL, Ontario, #126433 $35.20  (Oct)
  2. Heartland Stickleback White 2009, 92-3 --  V, Kent Town, South Australia, #186387 $10.95  (Aug)
  3. Cave Spring ‘Dolomite’ Riesling 2007 VQA Niagara Escarpment, 92-3  --  O, Jordan, Ontario, #Winery  $17.15  (Oct)
  4. William Fèvre Chablis Champs Royaux 2009, 92-2  --  G, Burgundy, France, #276436 $20.75  (Aug)
  5. Charles Baker Picone Vineyard Stratus Riesling 2009 VQA Vinemount Ridge, 92-1  --  O, NOTL, Ontario, #Winery $35.20   (Dec)
  6. Pedro Escudero ‘Fuente Elvira’ Verdejo 2009, 91-3 --  V,  Rueda, Spain, #218313  $13.95  (Aug)
  7. Legends Estate Reserve ‘Lizak Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2010 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore,  91-2  --  O, Beamsville, Ontario, #Winery  $19.15  (Jul)
  8. William Fèvre Chile Gran Cuvée Chardonnay 2009, 91-2 -- V, Santiago, Chile,  #045146 $16.95  (Sep)
  9. Concha Y Toro ‘Trio’ Chardonnay Pinot Grigio Pinot Blanc Reserva 2009,  90-2  --  V, Casablanca Valley, Chile, #433938 $12.95  (Oct)
  10. Emiliana Natura Un-oaked Chardonnay 2011, 90-2 --  V, Casablanca Valley, Chile,  #061895  $15.95  (Nov)
  11. Lammershoek Roulette Blanc 2008, 90-2  -- V,  Swartland, South Africa,  #225458 $16.95  (Dec)
  12. Graham Beck Bowed Head Chenin Blanc 2009,  90-2 --  V, Franschhoek, South Africa,  #231357 $17.95  (Dec)
  13. Craggy Range ‘Te Muna Road Single Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009, 90-1 -- V, Martinborough, NZ, #225706 $24.95  (Sep)
  14. Iona Chardonnay 2009,  90-1  --  V,  Elgin, South Africa, #236026 $24.95  (Dec)
  15. Charles Baker Ivan Vineyard Stratus Riesling 2010 VQA Twenty Mile Bench, 90  --  O, NOTL, Ontario, #Winery $35.20  (Dec)
  16. Anakena ‘Lilén Single Vineyard’ Viognier 2010,  90-2  --  V, Rapel Valley, Chile,  #045138 $13.95  (Aug)
  17. Spice Route Sauvignon Blanc 2010,  89-3  --  V,  Darling, South Africa, #235895 $14.95  (Oct)
  18. Carmen Reserva Chardonnay 2010, 89-2 --  G, Casablanca Valley, Chile, #235663 $10.95 (Nov)
  19. Pondview Estate Gewurztraminer/Riesling 2009 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 89-2  --  V, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, #234625 $14.20  (Aug)
  20. Skuttlebutt Sauvignon Blanc-Semillon 2008, 89-2 -- G, Margaret River, Australia,  #157867 $14.95  (Sep)
  21. St. Supéry Sauvignon Blanc 2009,  89-1  --  V,  Napa Valley, California, #339663 $18.95  (Oct)
  22. Giesen 'The Brothers' Sauvignon Blanc 2009, 89-1  --  V, Marlborough, NZ,  #247213 $19.95  (Oct)
  23. Legends Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2007 VQA Niagara Peninsula,  89-1  --  O, Beamsville, Ontario, #Winery  $20.15  (Jul)
  24. Heimberger les Origines Vieilles Vignes Gewurztraminer 2009, 89-1 -- V, Beblenheim, Alsace, #223933 $17.95  (Sep)
  25. the Foreign Affair Chardonnay 2008 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 89  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery  $30.15  (Jul)
  26. Tawse Chardonnay 'Estate Vineyards' 2009 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 89  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery $29.95  (Jul)
  27. Vinum Africa Chenin Blanc 2009,  88-1  -- V,  Somerset West,  South Africa, #739995 $14.95  (Dec)
  28. Château des Charmes 'St. David's Bench Vineyard' Chardonnay 2007 VQA St. David's Bench, 88-1  --  V, NOTL, Ontario, #430991  $16.50  (Oct)
  29. Bonterra Chardonnay 2009, 88-1 -- V, Mendocino County, USA, #342436 $18.95 (Sep)
  30. Paul Dolan Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2009, 88-1 -- V, Mendocino, California, #046334 $19.95  (Sep)
  31. Alvento 'Vio' Viognier 2007 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 88 --  O, Vineland, Ontario,  #Winery  $25.95  (Jul)
  32. Château des Charmes Chardonnay Barrel Fermented 2008 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 87-1  --  G, NOTL, Ontario, #081653 $13.95  (Sep)
  33. Elgin Valley Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2010,  87-1  --  V,  Elgin, South Africa, #207167 $14.95  (Dec) 
  34. Mulderbosch Chardonnay 2009, 87  --  V,  Stellenbosch, South Africa, #717090  $17.55  (Dec)
  35. Tawse Riesling 2010 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 87  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery $19.95  (Jul)
  36. Sue-Ann Staff Estate Robert’s Block Riesling 2009 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 87  --  V, St. Catharines, Ontario, #231415 $20.95  (Jul)
  37. Henry of Pelham Reserve Riesling 2008 VQA Short Hills Bench, 86-1  --  O, St. Catharines, Ontario, #Winery  $14.95  (Jul)
  38. Strewn ‘Terroir’ Riesling Gewurztraminer 2010 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 86  --  O, NOTL, Ontario, #Winery $17.15  (Jul)
  39. Wither Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2010, 86  -- V,  Marlborough, NZ, #919514 $17.95  (Dec)
  40. Flat Rock Cellars Chardonnay 2008 VQA Twenty Mile Bench, 85  --  V, Jordan, Ontario, #681247 $16.95  (Oct)
  41. Cono Sur Viognier 2010,  84  --  G, Colchagua Valley, Chile,  #064287 $10.00 (Nov)
  42. Megalomaniac Homegrown ‘Cellar 4379' Riesling 2010 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 84  --  G, Vineland, Ontario, #183061 $12.95  (Oct)
  43. Diva Sémillon-Sauvignon Blanc 2009 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, 84  --  G, Beamsville, Ontario, #179143 $14.95  (Oct)
  44. Mission Hill ‘Five Vineyards’ Pinot Blanc 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley,  84  --  G, BC, Canada,  #145094  $14.95  (Nov)
  45. Alvento ‘Vio’ Viognier 2006 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 84 --  O, Vineland, Ontario,  #Winery  $23.95  (Jul)
  46. Bodega Francis Lurton Pinot Gris 2010, UCO Valley, 83  --  G,  Argentina, #556746 $11.95  (Dec) 
  47. Domaine des Aspes Viognier 2009, 83  --  V, Languedoc, France, #712638 $15.95
  48. Gold Ring Chardonnay 2009, 83*see note -- V, Mendocino County, California, #239442 $16.95  (Sep)
  49. Obikwa Sauvignon Blanc 2011, 82  --  G, Western Cape, South Africa, #527465 $8.95  (Dec)
  50. Château des Charmes Sur Lie Chardonnay 2007 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 82  --  G, NOTL, Ontario,  #056754 $10.95  (Sep)
  51. Yalumba 'Y Series' Riesling 2009, 82 -- G, Eden Valley, Australia, #212753 $14.95  (Sep)
  52. Napa Ridge Chardonnay 2009, 82  --  V,  Napa, California, #213678 $18.95  (Sep)
  53. Alvento ‘Vio’ Viognier 2008 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 82 --  O, Vineland, Ontario,  #Winery  $19.95  (Jul)
  54. Chehalem Reserve Pinot Gris 2007,  82  --  V,  Willamette Valley, Oregon, #180372 $22.95  (Nov)
  55. Château des Charmes Aligote 2009 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 81  --  G,  NOTL, Ontario, #284950 $13.55  (Sep) 
  56. Hahn Estates Chardonnay Monterey 2008, 81 --  G, Soledad, California, #234393 $16.95  (Nov)
  57. Ken Forrester Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc 2009, 81  -- V,  Stellenbosch, South Africa, #231282 $17.95   (Dec)
  58. Megalomaniac ‘Edra’s Vineyard’ Narcissist Riesling 2009 VQA Niagara Peninsula,  81  --  V, Vineland, Ontario,  #067587 $17.95  (Oct)
  59. Cono Sur Riesling 2011,  80  --  G, Central Valley, Chile,  #156653  $9.95 (Nov)
  60. Cono Sur Chardonnay Organic 2011, 80  --  G, San Antonio Valley, Chile, #230565 $11.95  (Nov)
  61. Strewn Sauvignon Blanc 2008 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 80  --  O, NOTL, Ontario, #Winery $12.15  (Jul)
  62. Mission Hill ‘Five Vineyards’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley,  80  --  G, BC, Canada, #145086  $14.95 (Nov)
  63. Willm Réserve Riesling 2009, 80  --  V,  Alsace, France, #011452 $15.95  (Aug)
  64. the Foreign Affair Sauvignon Blanc 2008 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 80  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery  $25.15  (Jul)
  65. Donini Collezione Rubicone Trebbiano Chardonnay 2009, 80  --  G, Emilia-Romagna, Italy, #160317  (1000mL) $9.45  (Jul)
  66. Tawse Sauvignon Blanc 'Laundry Vineyard' 2010 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, 80  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery  $24.95   (Jul)
  67. the Foreign Affair Sauvignon Blanc 2008 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 80  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery  $25.15  (Jul)
  68. Tawse Sauvignon Blanc 2010 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, 80  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery  $24.94  (Jul)
  69. Blu Giovello Pinot Grigio 2010,  79  --  G, Venezie, Italy, #580183 $12.95  (Sep)
  70. McWilliam’s Mount Pleasant Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2010, 79  --  V, Adelaide Hills, Australia, #225441 $19.95  (Jul)
  71. [yellow tail]* Pinot Grigio NV,  78 --  G, Australia, #068254 $9.95  (Aug)
  72. Stratus Sauvignon Blanc 2008 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 78  --  O, NOTL, Ontario, #Winery $29.20  (Jul)
  73. [yellow tail]* Chardonnay 2010, 77  --  G, Australia, #627802 $10.95  (Aug)
  74. Southbrook Organic Connect White Vidal 2010 VQA Niagara on the Lake, 75  --  G,  NOTL, Ontario,  #249078  $14.95  (Oct)
(Return to Top)

Rosés:
  1. Delas Frères Saint Esprit Côtes du Rhône Rosé 2010, 90-2 -- V, Tournon-sur-Rhône, France, #224964 $12.95  (Sep)
  2. Domaine Lafage Parfum de Vignes Rosé 2010,  90-2  --  V, Roussillon, France, #167528 $13.95  (Oct)
  3. Hinterbrook Winery Rosé 2010 VQA Niagara Lakeshore, 90-2  --  O, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, #Winery  $16.20  (Jul)
  4. Château de Trinquevedel Tavel Rosé 2010, 89-1  --  V,  Tavel, France, #729947 $17.95 (Nov)
  5. The Wolftrap Rosé 2010,  88-1  --  V, Franschoek, South Africa, #169409 $12.95 (Nov)
  6. Domaine Houchart Côtes de Provence Rosé 2010,  88-1  --  V,  Aix-en-Provence, France, #118653 $13.95 (Nov)
  7. Yalumba 'Y Series' Sangiovese Rosé 2010, 88-1 -- G, Eden Valley, South Australia,  #234419 $14.95  (Sep)
  8. Château la Tour de l’Évêque Rosé 2010,  88-1  --  V, Provence, France, #319392 $18.95  (Oct)
  9. Emiliana Adobe Reserva Rosé Syrah 2010,  87-1  --  V, Rapel Valley, Chile, #229690 $11.95  (Aug)
  10. Southbrook Organic Connect Rosé 2010 VQA Niagara on the Lake, 86  --  V,  NOTL, Ontario, #168492  $18.95  (Oct)
  11. Finca Flichman ‘Misterio’ Rosé Malbec-Shiraz 2010,  85 --  G, Mendoza, Argentina,  #170126 $8.20 (Nov)
  12. Tawse ‘Sketches’ Rosé 2010 VQA Niagara Peninsula,  85  --  V, Vineland, Ontario,  #172643  $14.95  (Jul)

Sparkling:

  1. Jackson-Triggs Entourage Silver Series Brut Méthode Classique 2006 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 92-2  --  V, NOTL, Ontario, #234161 $22.95  (Jul)
  2. Tenuta S. Anna Extra Dry Prosecco NV,  90-2  --  V, Veneto, Italy,  #169128 $15.95  (Oct)
  3. Pierrel les Oressences Brut Champagne NV,  91  --  V, Epernay, France, #167502 $42.95  (Jul)
  4. Brisebarre Brut Vouvray NV,  89-1 --  V,  Loire, France, #226241  $18.95  (Nov) 
  5. Mausberg Brut Blanc de Blancs Crémant d’Alsace NV,  88-1 --  V,  Beblenheim, France,  #171785 $17.95 (Nov)
  6. Bellenda San Fermo Brut Prosecco Superiore 2010, 88-1  --  V, Veneto, Italy, #082347  $17.95  (Aug)
  7. Antech ‘Expression’ Brut Crémant de Limoux 2008,  88-1 --  V, Limoux, France, #068239  $17.95  (Nov)
  8. Epsilon Sparkling Wine NV,  86-1  --  V, Treviso, Italy,  #221929 $13.95  (Aug)
  9. Bellussi Belcanto Extra Dry Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Superiore NV,  86  --  V,  Valdobbiadene, Italy, #053215 $17.95  (Dec)
  10. Cave Spring Blanc de Blanc Brut NV VQA Niagara Escarpment,  85  --  G, Jordan, Ontario, #213983 $29.95  (Oct)
  11. Vineland Estate Winery Reserve Brut 2008 VQA Ontario,  84  --  V, Vineland, Ontario, #039495 $19.95  (Oct) 
  12. Domaine Allimant-Laugner Brut Crémant d’Alsace NV,  83 --  V, Orschwiller, France,  #030593 $17.95  (Dec)
  13. Katnook ‘Founder’s Block’ Sparkling Shiraz 2008, 82  --  V, Coonawara, Australia, #053330 $24.95  (Dec) 

Other: 
  1. Fleur du Cape Noble Late Harvest 2008, 93-1  --  V,  Coastal Region, South Africa, #173781 (375 mL)  $20.95  (Dec)
(Return to Top)
at No comments:

2011 2nd Half Summary - Reds

November View '11
The Reds tasted from July 1st to the end of 2011 are listed below.  Shown in bracket is the month of tasting where the original notes can be found.

 For a list of Whites+ which includes Rosés and Sparklings click on WHITES+ . For an introduction and calculation of some related numbers click on  INTRO.
Reds:
  1. Post House Blueish Black 2009,  94-3  --  G,  Raithby, South Africa, #226639  $14.30  (Dec)
  2. Delas ‘Les Reinages’ Gigondas 2007,  94-2  --  V,  Tournon-sur-Rhône, France, #222604 $29.95  (Aug)
  3. Stalking Horse Shiraz ‘McLaren Vale’ 2008, 93-3  -- V,  McLaren Vale, Australia, #251215  $17.95  (Dec)
  4. Kunde Family Estate ‘Sonoma Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, 93-3  --  V,  Kenwood, California, #226977  $19.95  (Sep)
  5. Gigondas La Cave l’Intense Gigondas 2007,  93-2  --  V, Rhône, France, #216382 $26.95  (Jul)
  6. Diva Malbec-Merlot 2007 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, 92-3  --  G, Beamsville, Ontario, #179135 $13.95*  (Oct)
  7. Kunde Family Estate ‘Sonoma Valley’ Zinfandel 2007, 92-3  --  V,  Kenwood, California, #965921 $16.95  (Sep)
  8. Lealtanza Reserva Seleccion Rioja 2004,  92-3  --  V, Rioja, Spain, #208223 $17.95  (Jul)
  9. Thelema Shiraz 2006,  92-2  --  V, Stellenbosch, South Africa, #146431 $19.95  (Nov)
  10. Majella The Musician Cabernet Shiraz 2009, 92-2  --  V,  Coonawarra, Australia,   #142018  $19.95  (Nov)
  11. Cline ‘Ancient Vines’ Carignane 2009,  92-2  --  V, Sonoma, California, #032177 $19.95  (Oct)
  12. Cono Sur Reserva Syrah 2008,  91-3  --  G, Colchagua Valley, Chile,  #221820  $12.95 (Nov)
  13. Hickinbotham Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon 2009,  91-2  --  V, South Australia, #159632 $15.95  (Oct)
  14. Hungerford Hill Fishcage Shiraz 2009, 91-2 --  V, New South Wales, Australia, #077958 $15.95  (Nov)
  15. Chehalem 3 Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008, 91-1  --  V,  Willamette Valley, Oregon, #949909   $28.95  (Nov)
  16. Domaine Duseigneur Antarès Lirac 2007, 91-2  --  V, Lirac, France, #213082 $19.95  (Sep)
  17. Alvento 'Elige' 2007 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 91-2  --  V, Vineland, Ontario, #226019 $19.95  (Jul)
  18. Alvento 'Sondra' Merlot Cabernet Franc 2006 VQA Niagara Peninsula, Vineland, 91-2  --  V, Ontario, #207332 $23.95  (Jul)
  19. Belle Glos Meiomi Pinot Noir 2009, 91-2  -- V, Rutherford, California, #130138 $26.95  (Jul)
  20. Vina la Rosa ‘La Capitana’ Carmènere 2009,  90-2  --  V, Cachapoal Valley, Chile,  #169896 $13.95  (Jul)
  21. L.A. Cetto Petite Sirah 2008, Mexico,  90-2 --  V, Mexico, #983742 $11.95  (Aug)
  22. Anakena ‘Single Vineyard’ Carmenère 2008,  90-2  --  V, Rapel Valley, Chile,  #059519 $13.95  (Aug)
  23. Chateau Camplazens la Garrigue 2007,  90-2  --  V, Armissan, France, #195008 $14.35  (Aug)
  24. Legends Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, 90-2  --  O, Beamsville, Ontario, #Winery  $18.15  (Jul)
  25. Canepa Reserva Privada Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, 89-2  --  V,  Maipo Valley, Chile, #412031 $13.95  (Aug) 
  26. Trio Reseva Merlot/Carmenere/Cabernet Sauvignon 2010,  89-2  -- V, Santiago, Chile, #433920  $14.95  (Dec)
  27. Yalumba 'Y Series' Shiraz/Viognier 2009, 89-2  --  G, Eden Valley, Australia, #624494  $14.95  (Sep)
  28. Porcupine Ridge Syrah/Viognier 2010, 89-2  -- V,  Coastal Region, South Africa, #079442  $16.95   (Dec) 
  29. Hahn Winery Monterey Pinot Noir 2008, 89-2  --  G, Soledad, California, #226555 $18.95 (Nov)  
  30. The Winery of Good Hope Black Rock Red 2007,  90-2 --  V, Somerset West, South Africa, #068502  $18.95  (Dec)
  31. Thelema Mountain Red 2007, 89-2  -- G,  South Africa, #222570 $11.95  (Dec)
  32. [Veedha] Means Life Douro Red 2008, 89-2  -- V, Gaia, Portugal, #255851 $12.95  (Dec)
  33. Prelius Meremma Toscana Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, 89-1  --  V, Tuscany, Italy,  #224022  $17.95  (Nov)
  34. Post House Penny Black 2008, 89-1  --  V,  Stellenbosch, South Africa, #148619  $19.95  (Dec)
  35. Louis Bernard Gigondas 2008, 89-1 --  V,  Rhône, France, #222596 $19.95 (Oct)
  36. the Foreign Affair Temptress 2008 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 89  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery  $45.20  (Jul)
  37. L.A. Cetto ‘Valle de Guadalupe’ Zinfandel 2008, 88-2  --  V, Baja, Mexico, #405605 $10.95  (Jul)
  38. J.P. Chenet Premier de Cuvée Merlot Cabernet 2009,  88-2  --  G,  Landiras, France,   #621995 $11.95  (Oct)
  39. Georges Vigouroux Pigmentum Malbec 2008,  88-2  --  G, Cahors, France, D 13.5%, #255182  $11.95* (Nov)
  40. Stoney Ridge Estate Winery ‘Warren Classic’ Pinot Noir 2009 VQA Niagara Peninsula,  88-2  --  G, Vineland, Ontario, #156125 $14.95 (Oct)
  41. Mission Hill ‘Five Vineyards’ Cabernet Merlot 2009 VQA Okanagan Valley,  88-1  --  G, BC, Canada,  #145102  $16.45  (Nov)
  42. Wente Southern Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, 88-1  --  V,  Livermore, California, #301507 $16.95  (Sep)
  43. Tenuta Sant’ Antonio Monti Garbi Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2008, 88-1  -- V, Veneto, Italy, #029850  $17.95  (Aug)
  44. Château la Grolet Côtes de Bourg 2009, 88-1  --  V, Bordeaux, France, #126615 $17.95  (Sep)
  45. Schild Estate ‘Premium Wines’ Shiraz 2007, 88  --  V, Barossa, Australia, #066555 $27.95  (Aug)
  46. Stratus Red 2007 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 88  --  V, NOTL, Ontario, #131037 $44.20  (Jul)
  47. Amity Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2007, 87 --  G,  Amity, Oregon, #124594  $20.95 (Nov)
  48. Sarah Powell Windridge Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007,  87  --  VOL,  McMinnville, Oregon, #076422 *$29.00 (reduced from $39.00)  (Nov)
  49. the Foreign Affair Dream 2008 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 87  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery  $29.15  (Jul)
  50. Durbanville Hills Shiraz 2009, 86-1  -- G,  Durbanville, South Africa, #022269 $11.95  (Dec)
  51. J.P. Chenet ‘Limited Release' Pinot Noir  2010, 86-1  --  G,  Landiras, France, #142406   $11.95 (Oct)
  52. Errazuriz Estate Pinot Noir 2009,  86-1  --  G, Casablanca Valley, Chile, #226696 $13.95  (Oct)
  53. Château de LaFaurie-Monbadon Grand Vin de Bordeaux 2006, 86  --  G, Gironde, France, #140012 $15.00  (Oct)
  54. Vina Leyda ‘las Brisas Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2009,  86 --  V, Leyda Valley, Chile, #209908 $16.95  (Aug)
  55. Parés Baltà Mas Elena 2007,  86  --  V, Penedès, Spain, #687236 $17.95  (Aug)
  56. Malivoire Gamay 2009 VQA Niagara Escarpment,  86  --  V, Beamsville, Ontario, #591313 $17.95  (Aug)
  57. Emiliana Winemaker’s Selection ‘la Quebrada’ Syrah 2009,  86  --  V, Casablanca, Chile, #212407 $18.95  (Aug)
  58. Liberty School Zinfandel 2008,  86  --  V, Paso Robles, California,  #041095   $18.95 (Nov)
  59. Bonterra Zinfandel 2009,  86  --  V, Mendocino County, USA, #530139 $19.95  (Sep)
  60. Compagnia di Volpaia Citto 2008,  85-1  --  V, Tuscany, Italy, #134817 $11.70  (Jul)
  61. Peachy Canyon Petite Sirah 2007,  85  --  V, Paso Robles, California, #239483 $19.95  (Sep)
  62. Anakena ‘Single Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2009,  84  --  V, Leyda Valley, Chile, #208439 $13.95  (Aug)
  63. Banfi Centine 2008, 84  --  V, Tuscany, Italy, #947440 $16.95  (Sep)
  64. Goats Do Roam ‘The Goatfather’ 2009,  83  --  V,  Paarl, South Africa, #011072  $14.95  (Dec)
  65. Boschendal 1685 Shiraz 2009, 83  --  V, Stellenbosch, South Africa,  #096511 $18.95   (Dec)
  66. Napa Ridge ‘Napa Valley’ Petite Sirah 2007,  83  --  V, Napa, California, #213686  $19.95  (Sep)
  67. Frogpond Farm Organic Gamay Noir 2009 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 83  --  V,  NOTL, Ontario, #245613 $15.00  (Aug)
  68. Bogle Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, 83  --  V, Graton, California, #904565 $17.95  (Aug)
  69. Tawse Cabernet Franc 'Laundry Vineyard' 2009 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore,  83  --  O, Vineland, Ontario, #Winery  $31.95  (Jul)
  70. Finca Flichman ‘Misterio’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2010,  82  --  G,  Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina, #163949 $8.00  (Nov)
  71. Finca Flichman ‘Misterio’ Malbec 2010,  82 --  G, Mendoza, Argentina, #028803  $8.20  (Nov)
  72. Obikwa Shiraz 2010,  82  --  G, Western Cape, South Africa, #527499 $8.95  (Dec) 
  73. Flat Roof Manor Merlot 2009, 82  -- G,  South Africa, #129874 $10.95  (Dec)
  74. Sonop Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, 82  -- V,  Western Cape, South Africa, #606160  $13.95  (Dec)
  75. Alvento 'Aria' Nebbiolo 2006 VQA Niagara Peninsula,  82  --  V, Vineland, Ontario, #167874 $21.35  (Jul)
  76. Konzelmann ‘Spaetburgunder’ Pinot Noir 2009 VQA Niagara Peninsula, 82  --  G, NOTL, Ontario, #200584 $12.95  (Sep)
  77. Slent Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2010, 81  -- G,  Paarl, South Africa, #226688 $9.95  (Dec)
  78. Château des Charmes 'Old Vines' Pinot Noir 2007 VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, 81(Cellar)  --  G, NOTL, Ontario, #056754 $10.95  (Sep)
  79. Aldo Marenco Pirun 2008,  81  --  V, Piedmont, Italy, #161729  $17.95  (Sep)
  80. Bonterra Cabernet Sauvignon 2009,  81  --  V, Mendocino County, USA, #342428 $19.95  (Sep)
  81. Château Pindefleurs ‘Saint-Émilion Grand Cru’ 2007,  80  --  V, Bordeaux, France, #102764 $20.00  (Aug)
  82. Rose Hill ‘Private Edition’ Cabernet Merlot 2008 VQA Niagara Peninsula,  79  --  G, Markham, Ontario, #146779 $13.05  (Oct)
  83. Megalomaniac Homegrown ‘Cellar 4379’ 2009 VQA Niagara Peninsula,  78  --  G, Vineland, Ontario, #260364 $16.95  (Oct)
  84. Legends Reserve Malbec 2007 VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, 78  --  O, Beamsville, Ontario, #Winery  $19.15  (Jul)
  85. Southbrook Organic Connect Red 2008 VQA Niagara on the Lake, 76  --  G,  NOTL, Ontario, #249565 $14.95  (Oct)
  86. Masi Modello Rosso Delle Venezie 2010, 72  --  G, Veneto, Italy, #533026 $11.95  (Sep)
Beaujolais Nouveau:
  1. Georges DuBoeuf Beaujolais-Villages Nouveau 2011,  84  --  V, Beaujolais, France, #932780  $14.95 (Nov)
  2. Georges DuBoeuf  Gamay Nouveau 2011,  82  --  G, Burgundy, France, #891846  $8.95 (Nov)
  3. Primeur Syrah 2011,  81  --  G, Pays d’Oc, France, 12.5% D, #899948  $9.95 (Nov)
  4. Cantina Tollo Giocale Novello Rosso Terre de Chietti 2011, 81  --  G, Abruzzo, Italy, #271759  $8.95 (Nov)
  5. Primeur Catalan Syrah-Merlot 2011, 80  --  G, Pays d’Oc, France, #220533  $9.95 (Nov)
  6. Cantina di Negrar Novello Del Veneto 2011,  80  --  G,  Negrar, Italy, #899955  $9.95  (Nov)

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2011 2nd Half Summary - Intro

November Colours '11
This Intro looks at two groups of wines during the period. The first group are those rated 85+, ie. enjoyable in every sensual respect - colour, nose flavour & finish as well as non sensual factors, their cellaring potential and the level of artificiality (typicity). The second group are wines rated below 85 or those being less than enjoyable, ie. simple wines to being flawed.

An average price for these groups are calculated which could be a rationale for future purchases. However this is mute since my interest is as much in sampling different styles from different wine regions and searching for the best Value within a budget below $25 per.

For the complete list of wines click on REDS or WHITES+

Note: Ratings in this blog are based on the Wine Advocate Rating system summarized in the Side Panel. A 'Value' assigned for a wine is described in previous blogs details of which are also given in the Side Panel. Needless to say 'Value' wines are less likely to be available however the #nnnnnn link can be used to check LCBO inventory.

The following is an interpretation of my investment in wines from local wineries and the LCBO for the period from July 1st 'til end of 2011.

  • Tastings for 192 wines were blogged: 74 whites, 86 reds, 6 Nouveau, 12 rosés, 13 sparklings and one Other. The reds and whites came from ten countries. Canada, or more specifically Niagara since our local monopoly doesn't stock other Province releases to any great extent, has the highest number with 52 wines purchased, 19 reds and 33 whites. The US (22,15/7), France (15,11/4) and Chile (16,8/8) came next with six other countries making up the rest.Two South African whites planned for December have been deferred until the New Year.
  • During this period France had the higher percentage of wines, 12 of 15, rated 85+.  Niagara had 27 (10 red, 17 white) of 52 in the 85+ range.
Narrowing the view to the 159 reds(86) and whites(73), I look at their average prices imported versus local, the total numbers as well as the number of Value wines, whites and reds:

  • The average price for 108 imported wines:  for 41 whites it was $15.45 and for 67 reds, $16.44
  • The average price for 52 Niagara (includes BC) wines:  for 33 whites it was $20.70 and for 19 reds it was $21.06
  • The average price for 75 imported wines rated 85+:  for 24 whites it was $17.05 and for 51 reds, $17.70
  • The average price for 27 Niagara wines rated 85+:  for 17 whites it was  $22.51 and for 10 reds it was $24.40
Looking at the level of enjoyment for a given price, or as indicated by Value:

  • Of the 86 reds 47 were considered good Value - 6 were from Niagara. 
  • Of the 74 whites 29 were considered good Value - 9 were from Niagara.
Most of the wines rated below 85+ were selected somewhat randomly from the General shelves

Numbers can be what they appear to be - just numbers… or they can lead to meaningful conclusions.


Cheers, Ww

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