Monday, April 23, 2007
GPCi for April 28th 2007 release at the LCBO
GPCi Top 4 Picks of the release:
#1 - 2004 MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA SYRAH - $19.95
#2 - 2003 VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $14.95
#3 - 2005 CIMICKY TRUMPS SHIRAZ - $21.95
#4 - 2004 NEPENTHE TRYST CABERNET/ TEMPRANILLO/ZINFANDEL - $15.95
France (South Rhone)
2003 GUIGAL CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE - $49.95
AC
Wine & Spirits = 95: Guigal is best known for its legendary Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage, but the 2003 Châteauneuf-du-Pape fully deserves a place alongside its more renowned siblings, with elegant refinement and subtle, soil-driven intensity. Its dark, pungent flavors of black cherry and spiced plum are richly prominent, constantly referring back to a deeply gripping minerality that tethers the complex aromas of fruit, spice, fresh meat and black tea. It feels like a sphere, seamless and harmonious, staining the palate with its long, fragrant length. (, Feb 2007) Robert Parker Jr. (www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2006) also praised this wine awarding it a score of 90 points.
GPCi - a good CdP although pretty expensive relatively to the Perrin CdP alternative (see below) which is at the same level of complexity and enjoyment for less! if you have invested in the 2000 and 2001 CdP from Guigal, you will need to buy this one to keep the vertical running (skip the 2002 vintage).
2003 PERRIN & FILS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE LES SINARDS - $38.95
AC
Jean-Pierre, François and Pierre Perrin created Les Sinards as an homage to their late grandfather. With some of the grapes sourced from their famous Château de Beaucastel estate, this is a classic Châteauneuf with cocoa, blackcurrant, cherry and leather aromas. It's dry, medium- to full-bodied and packed with rich fruit flavours, as well as earth and smoke notes. With such great structure, this big wine needs char-grilled steaks or rack of lamb.
GPCi - tried it and it's a great CdP for the money. can be cellared for 5-8 years. buy 2-3 bottles.
Argentina
2003 NAVARRO CORREAS GRAN RESERVA MALBEC - $18.95
The Correas family's history in Mendoza dates back to 1798. From the mid 1800s to 1974 the family cultivated grapes for other wine producers, but all that changed in 1975 when Don Edmundo Navarro Correas established the family's own winery. Today, winemaker Juan Marco crafts exceptional premium quality products like this rich and complex Malbec. Aged for 18 months in French oak, this well-balanced wine has dense flavours of dark berry fruit and spices. Great with grilled meats or pasta in a zesty tomato sauce.
GPCi - expect a great and complex Malbec. will be a wonderful companion with a juicy thick steak!
Chile
2004 MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA SYRAH - $19.95
Peumo (Concha Y Toro)
WS=91 : Ripe and pure, with lovely violet, blackberry and plum aromas and flavors that glide along sweet, imbedded tannins. Has a healthy layer of flashy toast, but more than enough fruit for balance. Concha y Toro makes it seem too easy. Drink now through 2008. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2006)
GPCi - my #1 pick. You won't find many very good Syrah like this one at that price. buy from 3-12 bottles.
2003 VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $14.95
Maipo Valley, Estate Btld.
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from Tarapacá's Ex-Zavala vineyards and vinified in stainless steel. Aged in French oak barrels for 12 months, the wine then spends an additional year maturing in bottle before release. This intense wine displays cassis and ripe blackberry fruit aromas and flavours as well as notes of black pepper, chocolate and spices. Enjoy it with grilled spring lamb.
GPCi - I had it in Chile. One of the best cab sauv for $15 period! it's an unbelievable wine for day-to-day (with or without food). buy 3-12 bottles.
Australia
2005 CIMICKY TRUMPS SHIRAZ - $21.95
Barossa Valley, South Australia (Charles Cimicky Winemakers)
RP = 91 ; The 2005 Shiraz Trumps (100% Shiraz from 10- to 60-year-old vines aged 16 months in used American wood) is one of the great values in South Australian Shiraz. This super-intense, mouth-staining, and mouth-filling cuvee is all about gorgeously pure black fruits kissed with sweet oak presented in a full-bodied, beautiful, multilayered, textural, hedonistic style. Consume it over the next 3-4 years.
GPCi - another great deal. highly rated Shiraz for $22 for short-mid term cellaring. if you need to top up your Shiraz inventory, that's a good choice.
2004 D'ARENBERG THE CUSTODIAN GRENACHE - $20.95
McLaren Vale, South Australia
RP = 89 : A classic Grenache, the 2004 The Custodian exhibits crisp notes of licorice, kirsch liqueur, and loamy soil in a medium to full-bodied, spicy style. This beautifully knit, medium-bodied, richly fruity Grenache should drink well for several years.
GPCi - I have tried The Custodian from 2000, 2001, 2002 and it's no more than a good Grenache. For that price I would look for other Grenach from Australia and maybe some Cote-du-Rhone alternatives from France.
2004 NEPENTHE TRYST CABERNET/ TEMPRANILLO/ZINFANDEL - $15.95
Adelaide Hills, South Australia
WS=90 : This has pizzazz. Polished and round, with wild berry, cherry, currant and a tang of refreshing acidity as it all lingers on the finish. Tannins are well-formed, and it comes together beautifully. Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and Zinfandel. Drink now through 2012.
GPCi - that's an interesting blend... I wonder if it's trying to give a bit from Spain (Tempranillo), some of California (Zinfandel) and the local Australian cab sauv. For that price, this WS review and with up to 5 years in the cellar - that's a no brainer for the BBQ days to come. Buy 3-12 bottles.
2001 PETER LEHMANN MENTOR - $40.95
Barossa, South Australia
JH = 93 ; Each year, the Peter Lehmann winemakers identify the best Cabernet Sauvignon of the vintage and blend it with selected varieties to create this multi-dimensional flagship wine. The wine is a tribute to Lehmann himself who is a legend in the Barossa Valley.Tasting Note: Smooth, supple amalgam of blackcurrant and spicy fruit; fine tannins; compelling length. Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Shiraz.
GPCi - I had the 1999 Mentor and it was outstanding. I would expect more from the 2001. Although it's expensive, I believe it could be consumed now and be cellared until 2015+. Buy 2 bottles.
2003 PIRRAMIMMA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $22.95
McLaren Vale, South Australia
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from two different vineyards in McLaren Vale. Aged in oak for 2 years (60% new American), it's a powerhouse with aromas of blackcurrant, dark berries and cedar. Dry and full-bodied, it has masses of ripe fruit balanced by gripping tannins leading to a long finish. Enjoy it over the next 5 years with grilled steaks or game meats.
GPCi - I had previous vintages and Piramimma never failed (their Petit Verdot is really good). It's another great value cab sauv. buy 2-3 bottles.
Germany
2005 BALTHASAR RESS RIESLING KABINETT - $17.95
QmP, Hattenheimer Schützenhaus, Estate Btld.
WS = 90 : Hints of petrol and almond give way to peach and creamy lemon flavors in this ripe kabinett. More compact than many of its peers at this stage. Give it time. Best from 2008 through 2018. Smart Buy.
GPCi - I'm always looking for excellent Riesling because many times they are very cheap relatively to their quality and their cellaring potential - this is a good example. buy 3-6 bottles.
Italy
2004 ANTINORI PÈPPOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO - $19.95
DOCG
WS = 90 : A ripe, fruity red, with black currant, damson and hints of coconut and chocolate. Very powerful, with a silky medium body and a fruity, chocolate-coated finish. Needs time. Best after 2007.
GPCi - 2004 wasn't a great vintage for Tuscany. Antinori was capable enough to produce a very good Chianti for this attractive price. If you like the Sangiovese grape, this one is for you. Buy 2-3 bottles so you can buy from the VERY attempting Riserva below
2001 ROCCA DI CASTAGNOLI CAPRAIA CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA - $31.95
DOCG
RP = 91 ; The 2001 Chianti Classico Riserva Capraia, from a notably lower and warmer vineyard, is riper and smokier, powerful and intense on the nose and palate, concentrated and authoritative from the mid-palate to the finish, and with plenty of grip and bite. Drink: 2006-2016.
GPCi - the 2001 vintage was outstanding in Tuscany and this riserva is showing that characteristics. Great for now and for the cellar for the next 9 years! Buy 2-3 bottles.
2005 SPORTOLETTI ROSSO - $19.95
DOC Assisi
RP = 90 : As usual, this cuvee represents an outstanding value. Sportoletti's 2005 Assisi Rosso (a blend of 50% Sangiovese, 40% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon fashioned by renowned winemaking consultant Riccardo Cotarella) was aged four months in three-year-old French oak barrels. It boasts a gorgeous perfume of sweet white chocolate, black cherries, and black currants as well as an opulent, pure, rich, smooth style. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.
GPCi - too many good options from Tuscany for a very attractive price. The Sportoletti's Rosso is a blend that would show extracts and combination of currants and chocolate.
Spain (Rioja)
2003 MUGA RESERVA - $23.95
DOC Rioja
Vintages.com : This Reserva (70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 10% Mazuelo and Graciano) spends six months in traditional Riojan oak vats, 24 months in small oak barrels and a minimum of 12 months in bottle. Full garnet ruby in colour. Aromas of cherry, strawberry, mint and oak lead to a medium-full body. Supple and polished, with a sweet centre, this lingers pleasingly at the finish. An excellent producer and value.
GPCi - I discovered Muga about 10 years ago and since then I'm addicted to this Rioja. Even in OK-good years like 03', they know how to produce a great wine that can be cellared for 5+ years and can be drank now. buy 3-6 bottles.
#1 - 2004 MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA SYRAH - $19.95
#2 - 2003 VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $14.95
#3 - 2005 CIMICKY TRUMPS SHIRAZ - $21.95
#4 - 2004 NEPENTHE TRYST CABERNET/ TEMPRANILLO/ZINFANDEL - $15.95
France (South Rhone)
2003 GUIGAL CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE - $49.95
AC
Wine & Spirits = 95: Guigal is best known for its legendary Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage, but the 2003 Châteauneuf-du-Pape fully deserves a place alongside its more renowned siblings, with elegant refinement and subtle, soil-driven intensity. Its dark, pungent flavors of black cherry and spiced plum are richly prominent, constantly referring back to a deeply gripping minerality that tethers the complex aromas of fruit, spice, fresh meat and black tea. It feels like a sphere, seamless and harmonious, staining the palate with its long, fragrant length. (, Feb 2007) Robert Parker Jr. (www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2006) also praised this wine awarding it a score of 90 points.
GPCi - a good CdP although pretty expensive relatively to the Perrin CdP alternative (see below) which is at the same level of complexity and enjoyment for less! if you have invested in the 2000 and 2001 CdP from Guigal, you will need to buy this one to keep the vertical running (skip the 2002 vintage).
2003 PERRIN & FILS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE LES SINARDS - $38.95
AC
Jean-Pierre, François and Pierre Perrin created Les Sinards as an homage to their late grandfather. With some of the grapes sourced from their famous Château de Beaucastel estate, this is a classic Châteauneuf with cocoa, blackcurrant, cherry and leather aromas. It's dry, medium- to full-bodied and packed with rich fruit flavours, as well as earth and smoke notes. With such great structure, this big wine needs char-grilled steaks or rack of lamb.
GPCi - tried it and it's a great CdP for the money. can be cellared for 5-8 years. buy 2-3 bottles.
Argentina
2003 NAVARRO CORREAS GRAN RESERVA MALBEC - $18.95
The Correas family's history in Mendoza dates back to 1798. From the mid 1800s to 1974 the family cultivated grapes for other wine producers, but all that changed in 1975 when Don Edmundo Navarro Correas established the family's own winery. Today, winemaker Juan Marco crafts exceptional premium quality products like this rich and complex Malbec. Aged for 18 months in French oak, this well-balanced wine has dense flavours of dark berry fruit and spices. Great with grilled meats or pasta in a zesty tomato sauce.
GPCi - expect a great and complex Malbec. will be a wonderful companion with a juicy thick steak!
Chile
2004 MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA SYRAH - $19.95
Peumo (Concha Y Toro)
WS=91 : Ripe and pure, with lovely violet, blackberry and plum aromas and flavors that glide along sweet, imbedded tannins. Has a healthy layer of flashy toast, but more than enough fruit for balance. Concha y Toro makes it seem too easy. Drink now through 2008. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2006)
GPCi - my #1 pick. You won't find many very good Syrah like this one at that price. buy from 3-12 bottles.
2003 VIÑA TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $14.95
Maipo Valley, Estate Btld.
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from Tarapacá's Ex-Zavala vineyards and vinified in stainless steel. Aged in French oak barrels for 12 months, the wine then spends an additional year maturing in bottle before release. This intense wine displays cassis and ripe blackberry fruit aromas and flavours as well as notes of black pepper, chocolate and spices. Enjoy it with grilled spring lamb.
GPCi - I had it in Chile. One of the best cab sauv for $15 period! it's an unbelievable wine for day-to-day (with or without food). buy 3-12 bottles.
Australia
2005 CIMICKY TRUMPS SHIRAZ - $21.95
Barossa Valley, South Australia (Charles Cimicky Winemakers)
RP = 91 ; The 2005 Shiraz Trumps (100% Shiraz from 10- to 60-year-old vines aged 16 months in used American wood) is one of the great values in South Australian Shiraz. This super-intense, mouth-staining, and mouth-filling cuvee is all about gorgeously pure black fruits kissed with sweet oak presented in a full-bodied, beautiful, multilayered, textural, hedonistic style. Consume it over the next 3-4 years.
GPCi - another great deal. highly rated Shiraz for $22 for short-mid term cellaring. if you need to top up your Shiraz inventory, that's a good choice.
2004 D'ARENBERG THE CUSTODIAN GRENACHE - $20.95
McLaren Vale, South Australia
RP = 89 : A classic Grenache, the 2004 The Custodian exhibits crisp notes of licorice, kirsch liqueur, and loamy soil in a medium to full-bodied, spicy style. This beautifully knit, medium-bodied, richly fruity Grenache should drink well for several years.
GPCi - I have tried The Custodian from 2000, 2001, 2002 and it's no more than a good Grenache. For that price I would look for other Grenach from Australia and maybe some Cote-du-Rhone alternatives from France.
2004 NEPENTHE TRYST CABERNET/ TEMPRANILLO/ZINFANDEL - $15.95
Adelaide Hills, South Australia
WS=90 : This has pizzazz. Polished and round, with wild berry, cherry, currant and a tang of refreshing acidity as it all lingers on the finish. Tannins are well-formed, and it comes together beautifully. Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and Zinfandel. Drink now through 2012.
GPCi - that's an interesting blend... I wonder if it's trying to give a bit from Spain (Tempranillo), some of California (Zinfandel) and the local Australian cab sauv. For that price, this WS review and with up to 5 years in the cellar - that's a no brainer for the BBQ days to come. Buy 3-12 bottles.
2001 PETER LEHMANN MENTOR - $40.95
Barossa, South Australia
JH = 93 ; Each year, the Peter Lehmann winemakers identify the best Cabernet Sauvignon of the vintage and blend it with selected varieties to create this multi-dimensional flagship wine. The wine is a tribute to Lehmann himself who is a legend in the Barossa Valley.Tasting Note: Smooth, supple amalgam of blackcurrant and spicy fruit; fine tannins; compelling length. Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Shiraz.
GPCi - I had the 1999 Mentor and it was outstanding. I would expect more from the 2001. Although it's expensive, I believe it could be consumed now and be cellared until 2015+. Buy 2 bottles.
2003 PIRRAMIMMA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $22.95
McLaren Vale, South Australia
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from two different vineyards in McLaren Vale. Aged in oak for 2 years (60% new American), it's a powerhouse with aromas of blackcurrant, dark berries and cedar. Dry and full-bodied, it has masses of ripe fruit balanced by gripping tannins leading to a long finish. Enjoy it over the next 5 years with grilled steaks or game meats.
GPCi - I had previous vintages and Piramimma never failed (their Petit Verdot is really good). It's another great value cab sauv. buy 2-3 bottles.
Germany
2005 BALTHASAR RESS RIESLING KABINETT - $17.95
QmP, Hattenheimer Schützenhaus, Estate Btld.
WS = 90 : Hints of petrol and almond give way to peach and creamy lemon flavors in this ripe kabinett. More compact than many of its peers at this stage. Give it time. Best from 2008 through 2018. Smart Buy.
GPCi - I'm always looking for excellent Riesling because many times they are very cheap relatively to their quality and their cellaring potential - this is a good example. buy 3-6 bottles.
Italy
2004 ANTINORI PÈPPOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO - $19.95
DOCG
WS = 90 : A ripe, fruity red, with black currant, damson and hints of coconut and chocolate. Very powerful, with a silky medium body and a fruity, chocolate-coated finish. Needs time. Best after 2007.
GPCi - 2004 wasn't a great vintage for Tuscany. Antinori was capable enough to produce a very good Chianti for this attractive price. If you like the Sangiovese grape, this one is for you. Buy 2-3 bottles so you can buy from the VERY attempting Riserva below
2001 ROCCA DI CASTAGNOLI CAPRAIA CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA - $31.95
DOCG
RP = 91 ; The 2001 Chianti Classico Riserva Capraia, from a notably lower and warmer vineyard, is riper and smokier, powerful and intense on the nose and palate, concentrated and authoritative from the mid-palate to the finish, and with plenty of grip and bite. Drink: 2006-2016.
GPCi - the 2001 vintage was outstanding in Tuscany and this riserva is showing that characteristics. Great for now and for the cellar for the next 9 years! Buy 2-3 bottles.
2005 SPORTOLETTI ROSSO - $19.95
DOC Assisi
RP = 90 : As usual, this cuvee represents an outstanding value. Sportoletti's 2005 Assisi Rosso (a blend of 50% Sangiovese, 40% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon fashioned by renowned winemaking consultant Riccardo Cotarella) was aged four months in three-year-old French oak barrels. It boasts a gorgeous perfume of sweet white chocolate, black cherries, and black currants as well as an opulent, pure, rich, smooth style. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.
GPCi - too many good options from Tuscany for a very attractive price. The Sportoletti's Rosso is a blend that would show extracts and combination of currants and chocolate.
Spain (Rioja)
2003 MUGA RESERVA - $23.95
DOC Rioja
Vintages.com : This Reserva (70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 10% Mazuelo and Graciano) spends six months in traditional Riojan oak vats, 24 months in small oak barrels and a minimum of 12 months in bottle. Full garnet ruby in colour. Aromas of cherry, strawberry, mint and oak lead to a medium-full body. Supple and polished, with a sweet centre, this lingers pleasingly at the finish. An excellent producer and value.
GPCi - I discovered Muga about 10 years ago and since then I'm addicted to this Rioja. Even in OK-good years like 03', they know how to produce a great wine that can be cellared for 5+ years and can be drank now. buy 3-6 bottles.
