Saturday, December 31, 2011
Saturday, September 17, 2011
GPCi has a new home...
Dear friends,
As some of you already saw, I have joined Natalie MacLean website as a blogger.
Moving forward I will post my wine tasting review as well as my bi-weekly Vintages recommendations only at her website.
See you there...
Gaby.
As some of you already saw, I have joined Natalie MacLean website as a blogger.
Moving forward I will post my wine tasting review as well as my bi-weekly Vintages recommendations only at her website.
See you there...
Gaby.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
GPCi for Feb 6th 2010 release at the LCBO
Chile
2008 COUSIÑO-MACUL ANTIGUAS RESERVAS CHARDONNAY - $14.95
JM=89
GPCi - expect excellent QPR from this known producer from Chile. I didn't have their Reserva Chardonnay, but their wines are usually very good for the price.
2009 CASA LAPOSTOLLE SAUVIGNON BLANC - $13.95
GPCi - anything from Casa Lapostolle, even their entry level wines (like this one) is very rewarding. I like the Sauv Blanc from Chile. You can tell the difference with the New Zealand version. I guess here is where the terroir comes to play.
2007 CARMENERE RESERVA CASTILLO MOLINA - $14.95
GPCi - one of the first wines I've ever tasted from Chile was Castillo Molinda. Very consistently good day-to-day wine and for that price why not buy 6 bottles.
2006 CHOCALAN MALBEC GRAN RESERVA - $24.95
JM=91 2012 to 2021.
GPCi - Now Malbec from Chile is not something you find every day (it's the "Argentian grape"). Seems a bit expensive for Malbec but with nice aging potential (a very good GPCi !). I would try one and then decide whether to stock them in the cellar. definitely worth a try.
Argentina
2008 OPI A.K.A. RODOLFO SADLER MALBEC - $12.95 (MUST TRY!!!)
GPCi - It received a Trophy Winner in the 2009 Decanter World Wine Awards.
Again, no brainer for that price and for such a complementing review.
Canada - Ontario
2007 KONZELMANN RESERVE GEWÜRZTRAMINER - $17.95
GPCi - I liked the previous vintages of this Gewurz. 2007 is considered by everyone "THE" vintage in Ontario, so I'd buy 3-6 bottles. Great with so many different foods. John M - for you!
Australia
2006 D'ARENBERG THE TWENTYEIGHT ROAD MOURVÈDRE - $29.95
JM=92 ; 2013 to 2026
GPCi - I haven't had the chance to try this d'Arenberg. The 2005 wine received 93 by JM. If you like Mourvedre (a.k.a. Monastrell in Spain), which I very much do, it's seems like one of the best choices for the cellar from this release. I'd buy 2-6 bottles depends on your budget.
2007 THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER - $16.95 (MUST TRY!)
IWC=90
GPCi - I love this Northern-Rhone blend when it is done in Australia and for $17 !!! The review is great which encourages me to recommend buying 3-12 bottles. Great with any grilled meat.
2006 WYNNS COONAWARRA ESTATE VINTAGE RELEASE CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $24.95
JH=95
GPCi - I've had this wine since its 2001 vintage. I've recently tried the 2005 and the 2006 seems to be at the same high quality. Expect silky tannins, liquorish, tar, dark cherries, well integrated oak and long nice finish. Wine at this quality from the California costs twice if not more. I found them approachable yet age worthy. Decant the wine for 30 min prior to serving it.
US - California (Napa County/Sonoma County)
2006 GHOST PINES WINEMAKER’S BLEND CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95 (MUST TRY!)
RP=90
GPCi - So it is possible... A good Cab Sauv for this price definitely got my attention. I would compare this one with the Australian 2006 WYNNS COONAWARRA and the 2006 ZOLO from Argentina (received 88 by JM and costs $16.95).
France - Midi (Côtes du Roussillon-Villages)
2007 CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES - $19.95 (MUST TRY!)
David Schildknecht from www.erobertparker.com = 92 A blend of Grenache with
a bit of Carignan.
GPCi - Côtes du Roussillon is producing an increasingly noticeable great wines for a very reasonable price. This is another example. I like the blend - reminds me of the spices we get in southern part of the Rhone valley.
France – Bordeaux
GPCi - More wines from the 2006 Bordeaux vintage. I placed them in order of my personal preference. The first 3 wines are definitely worth buying for the cellar. I had the CLERC MILON and the CHÂTEAU DAUZAC from previous vintages and they are truly very good Bordeaux (even from an OK vintage like 2006).
2006 CHÂTEAU FLEUR CARDINALE - $55
RP=91-93 ; 2007-2022 75% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.
2006 CHÂTEAU CLERC MILON - $62
RP=91 ; 2014-2028 ; WS=91 ; ST=90 full body Merlot (44%) combined with 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Cabernet Franc
2006 CHÂTEAU SMITH HAUT LAFITTE - $84
RP=93 ; 2012-2029+ full body
2006 CHÂTEAU DAUZAC - $49
WS=89-91 full body.
2006 CHÂTEAU MOULIN SAINT-GEORGES - $59
RP=90 ; until 2024
2006 CHÂTEAU CERTAN MARZELLE - $75
RP=91-93 ; until 2030 100% Merlot
2006 CHÂTEAU GRAND-PUY-LACOSTE - $85
RP=92 ; 2014-2027 ; medium-full body 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc
France – Rhone-South
2007 PERRIN & FILS LES CHRISTINS VACQUEYRAS - $22.95
RP=89 ; now-2019 ; WS=90 ; ST=90-92 ; 65% Grenache and 35% Syrah
GPCi - From some reason I'm expecting it to be more that "89", but I'll have to try it and report back. This wine from this producer is usually a safe buy. Add the fact that it's coming from the excellent 2007 vintage and it costs $23 - just buy, buy, buy.
2007 DELAS FRÈRES SAINT-ESPRIT CÔTES DU RHÔNE - $14.95 (MUST BUY!!!)
RP=90 75% Syrah and 25% Grenache
GPCi - That's number one on my list of buying because of the review, the price and the region/blend. If it's as good as the review, it's a wonderful day-to-day treat.
Italy - Piedmont
2005 RENATO RATTI MARCENASCO BAROLO DOCG - $49.95
WS=96 ; number 7 on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list of 2009
GPCi - how many wines that got such a remarkable review cost $50? almost non! surprisingly enough it cost less/similar that some of the major US stores (e.g. Zachy's sell it for $US 51 on sale!). I would definitely consider buying 2-6 bottles for the cellar.
Spain - Priorat
2006 BUIL & GINÉ GINÉ GINÉ - $17.95
Wine & Spirits = 92 ; garnacha-cariena blend
GPCi - A good Priorat wine for less than $20, what's not to like. No brainer at least to try one bottle before you buy more for day-to-day consumption.
2008 COUSIÑO-MACUL ANTIGUAS RESERVAS CHARDONNAY - $14.95
JM=89
GPCi - expect excellent QPR from this known producer from Chile. I didn't have their Reserva Chardonnay, but their wines are usually very good for the price.
2009 CASA LAPOSTOLLE SAUVIGNON BLANC - $13.95
GPCi - anything from Casa Lapostolle, even their entry level wines (like this one) is very rewarding. I like the Sauv Blanc from Chile. You can tell the difference with the New Zealand version. I guess here is where the terroir comes to play.
2007 CARMENERE RESERVA CASTILLO MOLINA - $14.95
GPCi - one of the first wines I've ever tasted from Chile was Castillo Molinda. Very consistently good day-to-day wine and for that price why not buy 6 bottles.
2006 CHOCALAN MALBEC GRAN RESERVA - $24.95
JM=91 2012 to 2021.
GPCi - Now Malbec from Chile is not something you find every day (it's the "Argentian grape"). Seems a bit expensive for Malbec but with nice aging potential (a very good GPCi !). I would try one and then decide whether to stock them in the cellar. definitely worth a try.
Argentina
2008 OPI A.K.A. RODOLFO SADLER MALBEC - $12.95 (MUST TRY!!!)
GPCi - It received a Trophy Winner in the 2009 Decanter World Wine Awards.
Again, no brainer for that price and for such a complementing review.
Canada - Ontario
2007 KONZELMANN RESERVE GEWÜRZTRAMINER - $17.95
GPCi - I liked the previous vintages of this Gewurz. 2007 is considered by everyone "THE" vintage in Ontario, so I'd buy 3-6 bottles. Great with so many different foods. John M - for you!
Australia
2006 D'ARENBERG THE TWENTYEIGHT ROAD MOURVÈDRE - $29.95
JM=92 ; 2013 to 2026
GPCi - I haven't had the chance to try this d'Arenberg. The 2005 wine received 93 by JM. If you like Mourvedre (a.k.a. Monastrell in Spain), which I very much do, it's seems like one of the best choices for the cellar from this release. I'd buy 2-6 bottles depends on your budget.
2007 THE BLACK CHOOK SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER - $16.95 (MUST TRY!)
IWC=90
GPCi - I love this Northern-Rhone blend when it is done in Australia and for $17 !!! The review is great which encourages me to recommend buying 3-12 bottles. Great with any grilled meat.
2006 WYNNS COONAWARRA ESTATE VINTAGE RELEASE CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $24.95
JH=95
GPCi - I've had this wine since its 2001 vintage. I've recently tried the 2005 and the 2006 seems to be at the same high quality. Expect silky tannins, liquorish, tar, dark cherries, well integrated oak and long nice finish. Wine at this quality from the California costs twice if not more. I found them approachable yet age worthy. Decant the wine for 30 min prior to serving it.
US - California (Napa County/Sonoma County)
2006 GHOST PINES WINEMAKER’S BLEND CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95 (MUST TRY!)
RP=90
GPCi - So it is possible... A good Cab Sauv for this price definitely got my attention. I would compare this one with the Australian 2006 WYNNS COONAWARRA and the 2006 ZOLO from Argentina (received 88 by JM and costs $16.95).
France - Midi (Côtes du Roussillon-Villages)
2007 CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES - $19.95 (MUST TRY!)
David Schildknecht from www.erobertparker.com = 92 A blend of Grenache with
a bit of Carignan.
GPCi - Côtes du Roussillon is producing an increasingly noticeable great wines for a very reasonable price. This is another example. I like the blend - reminds me of the spices we get in southern part of the Rhone valley.
France – Bordeaux
GPCi - More wines from the 2006 Bordeaux vintage. I placed them in order of my personal preference. The first 3 wines are definitely worth buying for the cellar. I had the CLERC MILON and the CHÂTEAU DAUZAC from previous vintages and they are truly very good Bordeaux (even from an OK vintage like 2006).
2006 CHÂTEAU FLEUR CARDINALE - $55
RP=91-93 ; 2007-2022 75% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.
2006 CHÂTEAU CLERC MILON - $62
RP=91 ; 2014-2028 ; WS=91 ; ST=90 full body Merlot (44%) combined with 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Cabernet Franc
2006 CHÂTEAU SMITH HAUT LAFITTE - $84
RP=93 ; 2012-2029+ full body
2006 CHÂTEAU DAUZAC - $49
WS=89-91 full body.
2006 CHÂTEAU MOULIN SAINT-GEORGES - $59
RP=90 ; until 2024
2006 CHÂTEAU CERTAN MARZELLE - $75
RP=91-93 ; until 2030 100% Merlot
2006 CHÂTEAU GRAND-PUY-LACOSTE - $85
RP=92 ; 2014-2027 ; medium-full body 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc
France – Rhone-South
2007 PERRIN & FILS LES CHRISTINS VACQUEYRAS - $22.95
RP=89 ; now-2019 ; WS=90 ; ST=90-92 ; 65% Grenache and 35% Syrah
GPCi - From some reason I'm expecting it to be more that "89", but I'll have to try it and report back. This wine from this producer is usually a safe buy. Add the fact that it's coming from the excellent 2007 vintage and it costs $23 - just buy, buy, buy.
2007 DELAS FRÈRES SAINT-ESPRIT CÔTES DU RHÔNE - $14.95 (MUST BUY!!!)
RP=90 75% Syrah and 25% Grenache
GPCi - That's number one on my list of buying because of the review, the price and the region/blend. If it's as good as the review, it's a wonderful day-to-day treat.
Italy - Piedmont
2005 RENATO RATTI MARCENASCO BAROLO DOCG - $49.95
WS=96 ; number 7 on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list of 2009
GPCi - how many wines that got such a remarkable review cost $50? almost non! surprisingly enough it cost less/similar that some of the major US stores (e.g. Zachy's sell it for $US 51 on sale!). I would definitely consider buying 2-6 bottles for the cellar.
Spain - Priorat
2006 BUIL & GINÉ GINÉ GINÉ - $17.95
Wine & Spirits = 92 ; garnacha-cariena blend
GPCi - A good Priorat wine for less than $20, what's not to like. No brainer at least to try one bottle before you buy more for day-to-day consumption.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Short tasting notes now in Twitter
Hi everyone,
I've started to share short tasting notes about wines I had the opportunity to enjoy.
If you're interested, please join me as "followers" at Twitter : WineGPCi
I've started to share short tasting notes about wines I had the opportunity to enjoy.
If you're interested, please join me as "followers" at Twitter : WineGPCi
Saturday, January 16, 2010
GPCi for Jan 23rd 2010 release at the LCBO
Argentina
2007 CATENA MALBEC - $19.95
JM=91 ; 2011-2019
GPCi - If you haven't had the chance to try the Malbecs from Catena, you have to try their 2007 vintage. An outstanding $20 wine. Great value for the cellar and for day-to-day. Excellent by itself or with a nice juicy steak. I would not try it with light food dishes. It needs spice and strong food to balance things off.
2008 KAIKEN MALBEC - $14.95
GPCi - Kaiken offers in this release a Kaiken Ultra for $19.95 (JM gave it 89). I tried the "regular" Kaiken (which is this one) and it was excellent for $15.
LUIGI BOSCA RESERVA SYRAH - $14.95
GPCi - interestingly enough there is no vintage mentioned in the LCBO catalog (nor in the bottle's picture). I had the 2006 LUIGI BOSCA RESERVA Malbec (see short tasting notes on my Twitter WineGPCi account) and wasn't blown away. It was good just not amazing - similar to many other Malbecs. The Syrah seemed to receive very supportive review by WS and RP. worth trying.
2007 CLOS DE LOS SIETE - $23.95
JM=90 ; now -2015
GPCi - a consistent 90+ JM/RP. I like this wine a lot. It feels more like a $40 wine for a bargain. rich and complex. I'm expecting lots of dark fruit flavors and a long finish.
Chlie
2005 ECHEVERRIA FAMILY RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $17.95
WS=89
2007 SANTA RITA MEDALLA REAL GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
GPCi - I like the Cab Sauv from Chile. I find them very intense and thick. These two wines are from known producers that are consistently produce good wines for a very good value.
Australia (Western)
2007 MARQUEE ARTISAN WINES CLASSIC RIESLING - $17.95
GPCi - I mention this one because I know John M is on his hunt for these whites from Australia. What do you say John...?
Australia (South)
2008 DARK SIDE OF THE MOON SHIRAZ - $25.95
GPCi – a very close friend of mine was talented enough to be recently involved in Nasa’s last satellite launch to the moon. The last time he visited me, I was looking for this exact wine to drink together with him in honor of his huge achievement. I couldn’t find it in all of Ontario, so we settled on another outstanding wine from California (Valley of the Moon). Ofer H, my dear friend, I’ll buy it this time just in case you have another project with moon stuff… :)
Italy – Tuscany
2006 TOSCOLO CHIANTI CLASSICO - $16.85
GPCi – from the excellent 2006 vintage. What’s not to like. If you’re into Chianti, I say you buy a case. There is nothing better than Chianti for day-to-day food. One of the best food friendly wines out there - from Pizza to spaghetti carbonara with Parmigiano-Reggiano. mmm... yummm.
Italy-Veneto
2005 VILLA GIRARDI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO - $39.95
GPCi - Amarone from the Corvina grape. It's relatively rare to find Amarone for $40 at the LCBO. Not that $40 is cheap, but most Amarone that gets to the LCBO cost around $60+. I would buy 1-3 bottles. Excellent wine for the winter. Expect lots of dry fruit, dark chocolate and port like flavors.
Spain – Rioja
2005 ONTAÑÓN CRIANZA - $13.95 (MUST TRY!!!)
2005 BODEGAS RUCONIA REY DON GARCIA EL DE NAJERA CRIANZA - $15.95
GPCi – another food friendly wines from a great vintage, this time in Spain. 2005 was an outstanding vintage in the Rioja and this is a very attractive price for a good Temparnillo based wine. If you have the extra cash this month, go for a blended case of 6 bottles from each wine.
2004 EL COTO DE RIOJA COTO DE IMAZ RESERVA – $21.95
GPCi - I had their 1995 and 1996 Gran Reserva wines and it's always extremely rewarding for the money you pay. This wine can be cellared for another 5-10 years but can be enjoyed now with any food. Don't expect power here, but elegancy and lots of enjoyment.
Spain (Montsant)
2007 ÈTIM NEGRE - $14.95
GPCi - Had previous Etim. Lots of good things going on in the glass. Excellent value. 2007 was a good year in this tiny region in Spain, so I believe it's a risk free $15 wine.
Spain (Toro)
2004 PAGOS DEL REYBA JOZ CRIANZA - $15.95
GPCi - 2004 was another great year in Spain. I don't know this producer, but expecting a 100% Temparnillo wine from a great vintage to deliver nothing but joy... :)
France – Alsace
2008 PIERRE SPARR RÉSERVE GEWURZTRAMINER - $17.95
TA = 91
GPCi - RÉSERVE GEWURZTRAMINER from Alsace for $18. Another interesting choice for you John M. go-go-go. Great with Asian or Indian spicy food. Serve chilled.
France – Bordeaux
2006 CHÂTEAU D’ISSAN AC Margaux, 3e Cru - $68
RP=94 ; 2013 – 2030
2006 CHÂTEAU CALON-SÉGUR AC Saint-Estèphe, 3e Cru - $85
RP=91 ; WS=92
2006 CHÂTEAU D’ARMAILHAC AC Pauillac, 5e Cru - $55
RP=91 ; now – 2025
2006 CLOS DU MARQUIS AC Saint-Julien - $65
WS=92
GPCi - I have chosen some of my preferred Bordeaux from an OK+ vintage - beside Pomerol that got 90, all other sub-regions within Bordeaux received 87-88 by RP. Now that is a generalization to the entire region. The "trick" is to hand pick the chateau that did great wine despite the overall vintage difficulties.
The best deal for me is the 2006 CHÂTEAU D’ISSAN ; best review and best cellaring potential. In second place I would go with 2006 CHÂTEAU D’ARMAILHAC.
2007 CATENA MALBEC - $19.95
JM=91 ; 2011-2019
GPCi - If you haven't had the chance to try the Malbecs from Catena, you have to try their 2007 vintage. An outstanding $20 wine. Great value for the cellar and for day-to-day. Excellent by itself or with a nice juicy steak. I would not try it with light food dishes. It needs spice and strong food to balance things off.
2008 KAIKEN MALBEC - $14.95
GPCi - Kaiken offers in this release a Kaiken Ultra for $19.95 (JM gave it 89). I tried the "regular" Kaiken (which is this one) and it was excellent for $15.
LUIGI BOSCA RESERVA SYRAH - $14.95
GPCi - interestingly enough there is no vintage mentioned in the LCBO catalog (nor in the bottle's picture). I had the 2006 LUIGI BOSCA RESERVA Malbec (see short tasting notes on my Twitter WineGPCi account) and wasn't blown away. It was good just not amazing - similar to many other Malbecs. The Syrah seemed to receive very supportive review by WS and RP. worth trying.
2007 CLOS DE LOS SIETE - $23.95
JM=90 ; now -2015
GPCi - a consistent 90+ JM/RP. I like this wine a lot. It feels more like a $40 wine for a bargain. rich and complex. I'm expecting lots of dark fruit flavors and a long finish.
Chlie
2005 ECHEVERRIA FAMILY RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $17.95
WS=89
2007 SANTA RITA MEDALLA REAL GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
GPCi - I like the Cab Sauv from Chile. I find them very intense and thick. These two wines are from known producers that are consistently produce good wines for a very good value.
Australia (Western)
2007 MARQUEE ARTISAN WINES CLASSIC RIESLING - $17.95
GPCi - I mention this one because I know John M is on his hunt for these whites from Australia. What do you say John...?
Australia (South)
2008 DARK SIDE OF THE MOON SHIRAZ - $25.95
GPCi – a very close friend of mine was talented enough to be recently involved in Nasa’s last satellite launch to the moon. The last time he visited me, I was looking for this exact wine to drink together with him in honor of his huge achievement. I couldn’t find it in all of Ontario, so we settled on another outstanding wine from California (Valley of the Moon). Ofer H, my dear friend, I’ll buy it this time just in case you have another project with moon stuff… :)
Italy – Tuscany
2006 TOSCOLO CHIANTI CLASSICO - $16.85
GPCi – from the excellent 2006 vintage. What’s not to like. If you’re into Chianti, I say you buy a case. There is nothing better than Chianti for day-to-day food. One of the best food friendly wines out there - from Pizza to spaghetti carbonara with Parmigiano-Reggiano. mmm... yummm.
Italy-Veneto
2005 VILLA GIRARDI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO - $39.95
GPCi - Amarone from the Corvina grape. It's relatively rare to find Amarone for $40 at the LCBO. Not that $40 is cheap, but most Amarone that gets to the LCBO cost around $60+. I would buy 1-3 bottles. Excellent wine for the winter. Expect lots of dry fruit, dark chocolate and port like flavors.
Spain – Rioja
2005 ONTAÑÓN CRIANZA - $13.95 (MUST TRY!!!)
2005 BODEGAS RUCONIA REY DON GARCIA EL DE NAJERA CRIANZA - $15.95
GPCi – another food friendly wines from a great vintage, this time in Spain. 2005 was an outstanding vintage in the Rioja and this is a very attractive price for a good Temparnillo based wine. If you have the extra cash this month, go for a blended case of 6 bottles from each wine.
2004 EL COTO DE RIOJA COTO DE IMAZ RESERVA – $21.95
GPCi - I had their 1995 and 1996 Gran Reserva wines and it's always extremely rewarding for the money you pay. This wine can be cellared for another 5-10 years but can be enjoyed now with any food. Don't expect power here, but elegancy and lots of enjoyment.
Spain (Montsant)
2007 ÈTIM NEGRE - $14.95
GPCi - Had previous Etim. Lots of good things going on in the glass. Excellent value. 2007 was a good year in this tiny region in Spain, so I believe it's a risk free $15 wine.
Spain (Toro)
2004 PAGOS DEL REYBA JOZ CRIANZA - $15.95
GPCi - 2004 was another great year in Spain. I don't know this producer, but expecting a 100% Temparnillo wine from a great vintage to deliver nothing but joy... :)
France – Alsace
2008 PIERRE SPARR RÉSERVE GEWURZTRAMINER - $17.95
TA = 91
GPCi - RÉSERVE GEWURZTRAMINER from Alsace for $18. Another interesting choice for you John M. go-go-go. Great with Asian or Indian spicy food. Serve chilled.
France – Bordeaux
2006 CHÂTEAU D’ISSAN AC Margaux, 3e Cru - $68
RP=94 ; 2013 – 2030
2006 CHÂTEAU CALON-SÉGUR AC Saint-Estèphe, 3e Cru - $85
RP=91 ; WS=92
2006 CHÂTEAU D’ARMAILHAC AC Pauillac, 5e Cru - $55
RP=91 ; now – 2025
2006 CLOS DU MARQUIS AC Saint-Julien - $65
WS=92
GPCi - I have chosen some of my preferred Bordeaux from an OK+ vintage - beside Pomerol that got 90, all other sub-regions within Bordeaux received 87-88 by RP. Now that is a generalization to the entire region. The "trick" is to hand pick the chateau that did great wine despite the overall vintage difficulties.
The best deal for me is the 2006 CHÂTEAU D’ISSAN ; best review and best cellaring potential. In second place I would go with 2006 CHÂTEAU D’ARMAILHAC.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
GPCi for Jan 9th 2010 release at the LCBO
Happy New Year to everyone! May it be a year with nothing but good health and lots of not expensive yet unbelievable amazing wines.
I've learned over the years that after the holidays, the LCBO brings very good QPR wines and this coming release is no exception.
All the recommended wines this time are under $20 (!).
Also, I have open a new Twitter account called WineGPCi in which I write short wine notes of wines I have enjoyed recently. Feel free to join me there too...
U.S.A. – California
2008 MÉNAGE À TROIS CHARDONNAY (Folie à Deux) - $19.95
GPCi - I had their Zin for the past few years and really liked it (especially the '98 that Todd R brought me once) but I've never tried their Chardonnay. Worth trying.
Chile
2009 ANAKENA SINGLE VINEYARD VIOGNIER - $12.95
GPCi - Liked other wines from Anakena and I love Viognier and for $13 - no brainer - definitely worth trying.
2008 TABALÍ RESERVA SAUVIGNON BLANC - $12.95
GPCi - Another one from Tabali. Chile is known for their Sauv Blanc. 2008 was a very good vintage in Chile (got 90 by RP) and for $13, another worth trying wine.
France – Alsace
2008 BESTHEIM RÉSERVE VIEILLES VIGNES RIESLING - $14.95
GPCi - Old vines Riesling from Alsace for $15 - what's not to like, right John M? I would try it with a BBQ Pork Tenderloin (salt and pepper) as an opening dish.
Australia
2008 MITOLO JESTER CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
GPCi - I had previous vintages and it's an excellent Cab Sauv for $20. Lots of dark fruit, full of flavors and yummy with steak.
Argentina
2008 TRIVENTO RESERVE SYRAH (Concha y Toro) - $12.95
2008 TRIVENTO RESERVE SYRAH/MALBEC (Concha y Toro) - $12.95
GPCi - both wines got my attention because they are in Argentina but Concha y Toro from Chile are involved. I would expect it to be a lighter than usual Syrah for day-to-day consumption.
Chile
2007 LOS VASCOS CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $13.95 (MUST TRY!)
GPCi - That's my #1 on the list of buying from this release. It's a great $14 Cab Sauv. I had previous vintages and it never failed for the buck. Buy 6-12 bottles.
2007 MONTGRAS QUATRO - $15.95 (TRY!)
RP=89 ; A blend of 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec, 25% Syrah and 15% Carmenere.
GPCi - I had the 2005 and really enjoyed it. It's another very rewarding $16 wine. You get much more than $16 cost of wine. Try one and then, if you like it, buy 6-12 bottles.
France – Rhône
2007 QUEEN OF SYRAH COOL CLIMATE SYRAH (Cave de Tain)- $11.95
GPCi - This is a very "new world" name for a French wine. It's from the very successful 2007 vintage and cost $12 - what else does it need to do in order to get our attention. I would definitely buy one and see what's the story behind this one...
Spain
2008 JUAN GIL GOS MONASTRELL - $12.95 (Must TRY!)
GPCi - YES! YES! and YES! my number #2 on the must have list from this release. Excellent wine for $13 - very enjoyable and full of yumm in a glass! Stock 'em up.
I've learned over the years that after the holidays, the LCBO brings very good QPR wines and this coming release is no exception.
All the recommended wines this time are under $20 (!).
Also, I have open a new Twitter account called WineGPCi in which I write short wine notes of wines I have enjoyed recently. Feel free to join me there too...
U.S.A. – California
2008 MÉNAGE À TROIS CHARDONNAY (Folie à Deux) - $19.95
GPCi - I had their Zin for the past few years and really liked it (especially the '98 that Todd R brought me once) but I've never tried their Chardonnay. Worth trying.
Chile
2009 ANAKENA SINGLE VINEYARD VIOGNIER - $12.95
GPCi - Liked other wines from Anakena and I love Viognier and for $13 - no brainer - definitely worth trying.
2008 TABALÍ RESERVA SAUVIGNON BLANC - $12.95
GPCi - Another one from Tabali. Chile is known for their Sauv Blanc. 2008 was a very good vintage in Chile (got 90 by RP) and for $13, another worth trying wine.
France – Alsace
2008 BESTHEIM RÉSERVE VIEILLES VIGNES RIESLING - $14.95
GPCi - Old vines Riesling from Alsace for $15 - what's not to like, right John M? I would try it with a BBQ Pork Tenderloin (salt and pepper) as an opening dish.
Australia
2008 MITOLO JESTER CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
GPCi - I had previous vintages and it's an excellent Cab Sauv for $20. Lots of dark fruit, full of flavors and yummy with steak.
Argentina
2008 TRIVENTO RESERVE SYRAH (Concha y Toro) - $12.95
2008 TRIVENTO RESERVE SYRAH/MALBEC (Concha y Toro) - $12.95
GPCi - both wines got my attention because they are in Argentina but Concha y Toro from Chile are involved. I would expect it to be a lighter than usual Syrah for day-to-day consumption.
Chile
2007 LOS VASCOS CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $13.95 (MUST TRY!)
GPCi - That's my #1 on the list of buying from this release. It's a great $14 Cab Sauv. I had previous vintages and it never failed for the buck. Buy 6-12 bottles.
2007 MONTGRAS QUATRO - $15.95 (TRY!)
RP=89 ; A blend of 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec, 25% Syrah and 15% Carmenere.
GPCi - I had the 2005 and really enjoyed it. It's another very rewarding $16 wine. You get much more than $16 cost of wine. Try one and then, if you like it, buy 6-12 bottles.
France – Rhône
2007 QUEEN OF SYRAH COOL CLIMATE SYRAH (Cave de Tain)- $11.95
GPCi - This is a very "new world" name for a French wine. It's from the very successful 2007 vintage and cost $12 - what else does it need to do in order to get our attention. I would definitely buy one and see what's the story behind this one...
Spain
2008 JUAN GIL GOS MONASTRELL - $12.95 (Must TRY!)
GPCi - YES! YES! and YES! my number #2 on the must have list from this release. Excellent wine for $13 - very enjoyable and full of yumm in a glass! Stock 'em up.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
GPCi for Dec 5th 2009 release at the LCBO
US (California)
Conundrum (Non Vintage)- $24.95
GPCi - I was first introduced to this amazing and surprising white by Jim M. This wine used to be around the $35 a few years back and now it's where it should be. An excellent wine for sea food and salad.
Argentina (Mendoza)
2006 La Mascota Cab Sauv - $17.95
GPci - from the review seems like a very nice Cab Sauv for day-to-day.
2007 Catena Merlot - $19.95
GPCi - if you liked their Cab Sauv and you like Merlot, this one is definitely for you. A very good Merlot for an affordable price
2006 Zolo Reserva Malbec - $16.95
JM=90 ; 2011-2018
GPCi - Great review by Dr. J and the price for such a good Malbec is very attractive. I find Malbec to be an excellent companion for the winter.
2008 Los Clop Malbec - $10.95 (Must Try!)
GPCi - speaking of value. Good Malbec for $11 - worth the "risk". You know the trick by now - buy one and if you like it, go for a case.
Chile (Aconcagua)
2008 Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Single Vinyard Sauv Blanc - $15.95
JM=90
GPCi - Had this wine (earlier vintage) in Chile. Very good value Sauv Blanc. I like the fact that it's different from the NZ Sauv Blanc. More variety... :)
Chile (Limari)
2007 Tabali Reserva Especial Chardonnay - $18.95
GPCi - we talked about Tabali before. Buy this Chardonnay, you won't be disappointed with a nice creamy sauce dish.
Chile (Rapel)
2008 Canepa Reserva Privada Carmenere - $14.95
GPCi - I would have this Carmenere tête-à-tête with the Catena Merolt and "let the games begin...". The difference will be noticeable but so will be the similarity.
Chile (Puente Alto)
2006 Concha y Toro Don Melchor Cab Sauv - $69.95
JM=95 ; until 2036
GPCi - for the deep pockets and for the cellar. I've been collecting this wine since 2001. A consistent 95+ by RP and WS. It's a top Bordeaux wine made in Chile (by Bordeaux imported vines). This is an absolutely outstanding wine. If you decide to spend $70 over a bottle of wine for the coming holidays and you're debating between this one and a $70 Bordeaux bottle, I'd say go with the Don Melchor.
Australia (Clare Valley)
2008 Petaluma Hanlin Hill Riesling - $21.95
Winefront.com.au = 95 ; now-2020+
GPCi - I love the Rieslings from Australia because they are so different from all other Rieslings. Petaluma is a "safe bet" wine producer and with such review I'd buy at least 2 bottles.
Australia (South)
2006 Penfold's Bin 389 Cab/Shiraz - $37.95
JH=96 ; now-2036
GPCi - I started collecting the Bin 389 since 2002 (it wasn't that expensive then...). Never failed. An excellent blend that can be cellared for many years and therefore makes if a smart buy.
2005 St. Henry's Shiraz - $74.95
WS=95 ; 2011-2020
GPCi - Now this is a significant jump in price. I bought previous vintages for ~$40 a bottle. Although this is top of the line Shiraz, I think $75 is a bit too much. I'd skip and buy a Don Melchor instead for less.
Austarlia (McLaren Vale)
2005 Pirramimma Shiraz - $19.95
JH = 90 ; until 2015
GPCi - if you follow my blog, you know I never miss an opportunity to buy Pirramimma (Shiraz or Petit Verdot). An absolute delight. can be consumed now or cellared for a few years.
France (Bordeaux)
1995 Chateau Camensac - $54.95
WS = 90 ; until 2010
GPCi - I have one left in my cellar. 1995 was a very good year in Bordeaux. This left bank Bordeaux is no exception. A good use of $55. It's not every day that you can access in Canada to a ready-to-drink 15 year Bordeaux for $55.
2005 Chteau Coulogne - $15.95 (Must Try!)
2006 Chteau Hauchat - $15.00
GPCi - two 2005 Bordeuax for a VERY attractive price. I bet the risk is very low and for a day to day wines these will not disappoint.
France (Rhone-South)
2007 Domaine Grand Veneur Les Champauvins Cote du Rhone Villages - $19.95
RP = 91
GPCi - If you follow my blog for the past 6 months or so, you know that I'm on the hunt for the 2007 wines from the Rhone valley (south). A wine like that with a very supportive review from RP and for $20 is definitely on the "buy list". The "Cote du Rhone Villages" is the higher quality of the Cote du Rhone wines.
Spain (Calatayud)
2007 Atteca Old Vines - $21.95
IWC = 91 ; 100% Garnacha
GPCi - The 2007 vintage was just good when we look at Spain as a whole, HOWEVER, it's outstanding when it comes to this tiny region of Calatayud (not too far from Zaragoza). I visited this region when we made Fusion Spain and saw the amazing Old Vines (between 50-100+ years) at close to 1000 meters above sea level - what a view!
If Garnacha/Grenache is a grape you like, I'd buy 6-12 bottles.
Spain (Jumilla)
2008 Juan Gil Monastrell - $15.95
GPCi - The Juan Gil was introduced to the LCBO a few years ago (not too long ago...) and it is one of the best QPR wines Spain has to offer. Expect a great treat for a more than a fair price. Stock 'em up.
Spain (Montsant)
2007 Cellar de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica Old Vines - $16.95
JM=90 ; 85% Garnacha and 15% Syrah.
GPCi - Another jem from this relatively new (Nov/2001) region - south and west of Barcelona and inland toward Zaragoza. It looks like a blend Australia would do. Expect dark fruit flavors with herbs and hints of spice (from the Syrah).
Spain (Aragon)
2006 Chapillon Cuvee Harmonie Petit Verdot/Tannat - $14.95 (Must Try!)
JM=90+ ; 2011 - 2020
GPCi - The Blend of Petit Verdot and Tannat got my attention. Then JM review and the fact that it can be cellared for the next 10 years AND all that in a nice $15 package. well.. well... One case at least... :)
Conundrum (Non Vintage)- $24.95
GPCi - I was first introduced to this amazing and surprising white by Jim M. This wine used to be around the $35 a few years back and now it's where it should be. An excellent wine for sea food and salad.
Argentina (Mendoza)
2006 La Mascota Cab Sauv - $17.95
GPci - from the review seems like a very nice Cab Sauv for day-to-day.
2007 Catena Merlot - $19.95
GPCi - if you liked their Cab Sauv and you like Merlot, this one is definitely for you. A very good Merlot for an affordable price
2006 Zolo Reserva Malbec - $16.95
JM=90 ; 2011-2018
GPCi - Great review by Dr. J and the price for such a good Malbec is very attractive. I find Malbec to be an excellent companion for the winter.
2008 Los Clop Malbec - $10.95 (Must Try!)
GPCi - speaking of value. Good Malbec for $11 - worth the "risk". You know the trick by now - buy one and if you like it, go for a case.
Chile (Aconcagua)
2008 Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Single Vinyard Sauv Blanc - $15.95
JM=90
GPCi - Had this wine (earlier vintage) in Chile. Very good value Sauv Blanc. I like the fact that it's different from the NZ Sauv Blanc. More variety... :)
Chile (Limari)
2007 Tabali Reserva Especial Chardonnay - $18.95
GPCi - we talked about Tabali before. Buy this Chardonnay, you won't be disappointed with a nice creamy sauce dish.
Chile (Rapel)
2008 Canepa Reserva Privada Carmenere - $14.95
GPCi - I would have this Carmenere tête-à-tête with the Catena Merolt and "let the games begin...". The difference will be noticeable but so will be the similarity.
Chile (Puente Alto)
2006 Concha y Toro Don Melchor Cab Sauv - $69.95
JM=95 ; until 2036
GPCi - for the deep pockets and for the cellar. I've been collecting this wine since 2001. A consistent 95+ by RP and WS. It's a top Bordeaux wine made in Chile (by Bordeaux imported vines). This is an absolutely outstanding wine. If you decide to spend $70 over a bottle of wine for the coming holidays and you're debating between this one and a $70 Bordeaux bottle, I'd say go with the Don Melchor.
Australia (Clare Valley)
2008 Petaluma Hanlin Hill Riesling - $21.95
Winefront.com.au = 95 ; now-2020+
GPCi - I love the Rieslings from Australia because they are so different from all other Rieslings. Petaluma is a "safe bet" wine producer and with such review I'd buy at least 2 bottles.
Australia (South)
2006 Penfold's Bin 389 Cab/Shiraz - $37.95
JH=96 ; now-2036
GPCi - I started collecting the Bin 389 since 2002 (it wasn't that expensive then...). Never failed. An excellent blend that can be cellared for many years and therefore makes if a smart buy.
2005 St. Henry's Shiraz - $74.95
WS=95 ; 2011-2020
GPCi - Now this is a significant jump in price. I bought previous vintages for ~$40 a bottle. Although this is top of the line Shiraz, I think $75 is a bit too much. I'd skip and buy a Don Melchor instead for less.
Austarlia (McLaren Vale)
2005 Pirramimma Shiraz - $19.95
JH = 90 ; until 2015
GPCi - if you follow my blog, you know I never miss an opportunity to buy Pirramimma (Shiraz or Petit Verdot). An absolute delight. can be consumed now or cellared for a few years.
France (Bordeaux)
1995 Chateau Camensac - $54.95
WS = 90 ; until 2010
GPCi - I have one left in my cellar. 1995 was a very good year in Bordeaux. This left bank Bordeaux is no exception. A good use of $55. It's not every day that you can access in Canada to a ready-to-drink 15 year Bordeaux for $55.
2005 Chteau Coulogne - $15.95 (Must Try!)
2006 Chteau Hauchat - $15.00
GPCi - two 2005 Bordeuax for a VERY attractive price. I bet the risk is very low and for a day to day wines these will not disappoint.
France (Rhone-South)
2007 Domaine Grand Veneur Les Champauvins Cote du Rhone Villages - $19.95
RP = 91
GPCi - If you follow my blog for the past 6 months or so, you know that I'm on the hunt for the 2007 wines from the Rhone valley (south). A wine like that with a very supportive review from RP and for $20 is definitely on the "buy list". The "Cote du Rhone Villages" is the higher quality of the Cote du Rhone wines.
Spain (Calatayud)
2007 Atteca Old Vines - $21.95
IWC = 91 ; 100% Garnacha
GPCi - The 2007 vintage was just good when we look at Spain as a whole, HOWEVER, it's outstanding when it comes to this tiny region of Calatayud (not too far from Zaragoza). I visited this region when we made Fusion Spain and saw the amazing Old Vines (between 50-100+ years) at close to 1000 meters above sea level - what a view!
If Garnacha/Grenache is a grape you like, I'd buy 6-12 bottles.
Spain (Jumilla)
2008 Juan Gil Monastrell - $15.95
GPCi - The Juan Gil was introduced to the LCBO a few years ago (not too long ago...) and it is one of the best QPR wines Spain has to offer. Expect a great treat for a more than a fair price. Stock 'em up.
Spain (Montsant)
2007 Cellar de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica Old Vines - $16.95
JM=90 ; 85% Garnacha and 15% Syrah.
GPCi - Another jem from this relatively new (Nov/2001) region - south and west of Barcelona and inland toward Zaragoza. It looks like a blend Australia would do. Expect dark fruit flavors with herbs and hints of spice (from the Syrah).
Spain (Aragon)
2006 Chapillon Cuvee Harmonie Petit Verdot/Tannat - $14.95 (Must Try!)
JM=90+ ; 2011 - 2020
GPCi - The Blend of Petit Verdot and Tannat got my attention. Then JM review and the fact that it can be cellared for the next 10 years AND all that in a nice $15 package. well.. well... One case at least... :)
