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Back by
POPULAR
DEMAND
Your Favourite
Wines
New in
NEW
ZEALAND
DISCOVER OUR LATEST COLLECTION, IN STORES AND ON LCBO.COM SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
wines
of the
month
Mouth-watering marvels for May
THE HUNTING LODGE EXPRESSIONS
SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
17667 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2
TASTING NOTE: Wonderfully fruited and
immediately appealing, the wine shows
passionfruit, feijoa, lime peel and subtle musky
characters on the nose, followed by a
succulent palate that is both powerful and
delicious. It’s pristine and vibrant, and
fabulously drinkable. At its best: now to 2022.
Score: 93 (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz, Nov.
2020)
Aromatic & Flavourful
Featured in What’s New,
New Zealand?
New at Vintages
Late arrival. Product may not be available
at release time.
SAN FELICE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2018
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
282996 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 1
TASTING NOTE: This is bright and vivid,
showing blueberries, blackberries with violets
and other flowers. Medium to full body, tight
tannins, bright acidity and a vivid finish. Real
Chianti Classico. Drink now. Score: 92
(jamessuckling.com, Oct. 27, 2020)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
Featured in Back by
Popular Demand
welcome May 1
pg.2
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DEMAND
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LCBO.COM
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plus...
pg.16 WHAT’S ON page 28
PRODUCT INFO & TASTING NOTES page 31
WHAT’S NEW, SHOPPING LIST page 50
NEW ZEALAND? THE WHISKY SHOP page 52
FLAGSHIP EXCLUSIVES page 55
pg. 30 VINTAGES SPECIAL OFFERS page 58
LOCAL FIND * lcbo.com/vintages
Product availability: Due to the ongoing situation surrounding COVID-19 and printing lead times,
availability of some products in this catalogue may change and may vary by store location. For the
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BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND Once a year, we release a collection of fine wines that perennially fly off the shelves. Here, a few (22 to be exact) of your favourite things. You spoke, we listened. This collection is full of wines Vintages customers snapped up with such gusto any time they were released we just had to bring them back. This time, you were the product experts – so, pour a glass of your personal favourite and enjoy the fruits of a job well done. 2 VINTAGES
STILL
BLUSHING
2 FEATHERSTONE ROSÉ 2020 6
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
After winning Winemaker of the Year at the
2019 Ontario Wine Awards, David Johnson
scores another victory with this beloved
pink blend.
Easygoing & Fruity
117861 (D) 750 mL
$15.95 1
1
SKETCH
ARTIST
TAWSE SKETCHES
CABERNET/MERLOT 2018 6
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
Tawse winemaker Paul Pender combines
powerful, angular Cabernet with smooth,
seductive Merlot to paint a vivid picture.
Medium-bodied & Fruity
130252 (XD) 750 mL $21.95 2
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE, SEE PAGES 33 TO 34.
GREEN, NOT
GREENHORNS
CHÂTEAU LE PUY EMILIEN 2017
France
Certified organic and biodynamic, this
complex, savoury wine is a taste of premi-
um Bordeaux from a family with over 400
3
years of wine history.
Medium-bodied & Fruity
557660 (XD) 750 mL $31.95 2
4 Organic product
4
DOUBLE
TAKE
MONTE DEL FRÀ LENA DI MEZZO
VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO CLASSICO
SUPERIORE 2018
DOC, Veneto, Italy
Undergoing a second fermentation on
the skins of partially dried grapes
amps up the lovely, spicy fruit of this
head-turning wine.
89 points (John Szabo, MS,
winealign.com)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
165662 (D) 750 mL
$25.95 1
6
JUMP
FOR JOY
D’ARENBERG THE STUMP JUMP
GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/
MOURVÈDRE 2017
McLaren Vale, South Australia
Beautifully supple, sweetly fruity, upfront, silky
and instantly appealing. What’s not to love?
90 points (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
173294 (XD) 750 mL $15.95 2
Late arrival. Product may not be available
5
at release time.
LONG
7
RUN
CAN YA SISTER’S RUN OLD TESTAMENT
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018
DIG IT? Coonawarra, South Australia
What’s even better than a serious,
BURROWING OWL ATHENE 2017 6 structured Cabernet you can enjoy tonight or
Estate bottled, BC VQA Okanagan Valley, tuck in the cellar for up to a decade? One at
British Columbia this price.
Wonderfully juicy, wildly aromatic and 91 points (MaryAnn Worobiec,
widely appealing, this blend of Syrah and winespectator.com)
Cabernet from the Wyse family has an Full-bodied & Firm
impressive W column. 478271 (XD) 750 mL $17.95 2
92 points (Sara d’Amato,
winealign.com)
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER
Full-bodied & Firm
ONLINE, SEE PAGES 34 TO 47.
371336 (XD) 750 mL
$44.95 2
VINTAGES 5
CHABLIS,
EXTRA “LEE”
9
LA CHABLISIENNE GRANDE CUVÉE
CHABLIS 1ER CRU 2018
AC, Burgundy, France
This premier cru spends about a year HALLOWED
resting on the fine lees, ramping up the
flavour, the texture and that telltale Chablis
minerality.
TERROIR
Light & Crisp
JEAN-CLAUDE BOISSET LES
URSULINES BOURGOGNE PINOT
685222 (XD) 750 mL $34.95 2 NOIR 2019
AC, Burgundy, France
Named for a site where a convent for
Ursuline nuns once stood, this wine offers
an authentic taste of Burgundy without an
ungodly price tag.
Medium-bodied & Fruity
408310 (XD) 750 mL $24.95 2
8
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER
ONLINE, SEE PAGES 42 TO 43.
6 VINTAGES
PICK YOUR
11 PLEASURE
JOSEPH DROUHIN BOURGOGNE
CHARDONNAY 2019
AC, Burgundy, France
This bright, juicy Chardonnay is sourced
from specially selected sites in order to
provide the simple pleasure of classic
white Burgundy.
Light & Crisp
512582 (XD) 750 mL $24.95 2
10
SPRING
ROSÉ
FAMILLE PERRIN RÉSERVE
ROSÉ 2020
AC Côtes du Rhône, France
Beloved for its notions of red cherry, raspberry,
wild herbs and fresh flowers, this wine is a
classic sipper as the weather gets warmer.
Medium-bodied & Dry
719062 (XD) 750 mL $15.95 1
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER
ONLINE, SEE PAGES 41 TO 45.
8 VINTAGESUP A
NOTCH
SANTA MARGHERITA IMPRONTA DEL
FONDATORE PINOT GRIGIO 2018
DOC Alto Adige, Italy
From the maker of the most popular wine
in our Essentials Collection, this zesty,
high-altitude PG takes it up a notch, literally
and figuratively.
91 points (Carolyn Evans Hammond,
thestar.com)
Light & Crisp
231258 (XD) 750 mL $28.95 2
13
12
EASY
DOES IT
TESSELLAE ROSÉ 2020
IGP Côtes Catalanes, Roussillon, France
(Domaine Lafage)
Grown in a Mediterranean climate and
made in an easygoing style, this rosé
brings abundant red berry fruit and a dash
of savoury spice.
Easygoing & Fruity
450817 (XD) 750 mL $16.95 1
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER
ONLINE, SEE PAGES 45 TO 46.
VINTAGES 914
FOOD FOR
THOUGHT
SAN FELICE CHIANTI
CLASSICO 2018
DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
Is there any better pairing than pasta with
Chianti Classico? It’s a question best
pondered with a plate of food and a
glass of this bright, vivid wine.
92 points (jamessuckling.com)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
282996 (XD) 750 mL
$19.95 1
Featured as our
Wine of the Month
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES
AND TO ORDER ONLINE, SEE
PAGES 46 TO 47.
15
ZIN
CITY
PAPALE LINEA ORO PRIMITIVO DI
MANDURIA 2016
DOP, Puglia, Italy
(Varvaglione Vigne & Vini)
Primitivo, a.k.a. Zinfandel, is the signature
red variety of Manduria. This wine’s spicy
cassis, plum and cherry fruit show why.
90 points (Monica Larner,
robertparker.com)
Full-bodied & Smooth
261784 (D) 750 mL $23.95 2
10 VINTAGESBE STIL
MY HEART
SANTA MARGHERITA STILROSE 2019
DOC Riviera del Garda Classico Chiaretto,
16
Lombardy, Italy
From the ever-popular Santa Margherita,
this vibrant pink wine evokes lovely berry
fruit, fresh flowers and almonds.
Easygoing & Fruity
659565 (XD) 750 mL
$24.95 1
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTE AND TO ORDER
ONLINE, SEE PAGE 48.
VINTAGES 1117
TAKE
YOUR PICK
Z. ALEXANDER BROWN UNCAGED
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018
California
Country rocker Zac Brown is known for his
guitar and banjo chops. This serious, struc-
tured Cabernet shows he can pick great wine
collabs, too.
90 points (Jim Gordon,
Wine Enthusiast)
Full-bodied & Firm
478628 (XD) 750 mL $21.95 2
FAIR
18
FOWL
AVONDALE JONTY’S DUCKS PEKIN RED
2016
Vegan, WO Paarl, South Africa
Not just vegan-friendly and certified organic,
this smoky, spicy red also comes from a
winery that employs ducks to naturally curtail
vineyard pests.
Full-bodied & Smooth
383547 (XD) 750 mL $16.95 2
4 Organic product
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER
ONLINE, SEE PAGES 37 TO 41.Shop this release on
LCBO.COM
Shop from the comfort of home
and avoid store lineups. We offer
three convenient delivery options:
1/ Home Delivery. Order from our
full product selection. Pay a flat
fee ($11.95 + HST) and have
your products at your doorstep
in 3-5 days.
2/ Same-Day Pickup. Shop
the inventory of 180+
LCBO stores. See page
60 for details.
3/ Store Delivery. Order from
our full product selection
and pick up at the LCBO
store of your choice (delivery
takes up to 2 weeks).
19
SHARP
WIT
WITS END LUNA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2019
McLaren Vale, South Australia
Classic, gorgeous and intense, this statement-
making stunner is like the power suit of wines
– and it wears it well.
93 points (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz)
Full-bodied & Firm
921239 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2
Late arrival. Product may not be available
at release time.
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTE AND TO ORDER
ONLINE, SEE PAGE 39.
VINTAGES 1320
BY THE
NUMBERS
HACIENDA LÓPEZ DE HARO
CRIANZA 2017
DOCa Rioja, Spain
Brimming with plum, cherry and earthy
spice, this wine took the #43 spot on Wine
Enthusiast’s Top 100 Best Buys of 2020.
90 points (Michael Schachner,
Wine Enthusiast)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
377481 (XD) 750 mL $17.00 2
As seen in Food & Drink magazine
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTE AND TO ORDER
ONLINE, SEE PAGE 48.
14 VINTAGESSKILLFUL
NUMBER 7
DISTRICT 7
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018
Sustainable, estate grown, Monterey
22
County, California
Who needs luck when you’ve got the skill
to make Cali Cab of this calibre? Soft,
juicy and delicious, it’s grown in certified
sustainable vineyards.
Medium-bodied & Fruity
10473 (XD) 750 mL $17.95 2
21
HIGH-VALUE
LODI
NOBLE VINES 337
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017
Lodi, California
Cali is known for its Cabernet, and off-the-
track Lodi makes some real beauties at
friendly prices. This ripe, exotic wine is a
stellar example.
90 points (Jim Gordon,
Wine Enthusiast)
Full-bodied & Firm
483321 (D) 750 mL $17.00 2
As seen in Food & Drink magazine
FOR COMPLETE TASTING NOTES AND TO ORDER ONLINE, SEE PAGES 35 TO 36. VINTAGES 15WHAT’S NEW,
NEW ZEALAN
16 VINTAGESToday’s Kiwi wine scene is
defined by envelope-pushing
producers exploring the
possibilities in far-flung
regions, with new styles and
using less-common grapes.
Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir are
unquestionably New Zealand’s 1 and 1A, and now
single-vineyard expressions and examples made in
regions beyond “the big M” are infusing NZ’s flagships
with a new distinctiveness. Experimental plantings of
unexpected varietals and top-tier low-alcohol and
orange wines show the uncompromising zeal for the
new that is making NZ a hotspot for the interesting
and surprising.
,
ND? A sprawling vineyard in
the Rarangi wetlands.NEW ZEALAND VARIETALS Small batch, rare, and off the beaten path. 18 VINTAGES
LEFTFIELD GISBORNE ALBARIÑO 2019
Gisborne, North Island
TASTING NOTE: 100% Albariño. Richly aromatic,
weighty style with marked roundness and
classic peach, mid-palate weight. Provides
enjoyable youthful drinking now. Score: 91
(Decanter World Wine Awards, 2020)
Aromatic & Flavourful
Morning has broken
17551 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 1 at Soho.
New at Vintages
SOHO ZIGGY PINOT GRIS 2020
Vegan, Marlborough, South Island
TASTING NOTE: This is delightfully fruited and
expressed, showing rockmelon, fresh pear,
Gala apple and floral characters. The palate
displays excellent fruit intensity together with
supple mouthfeel and refreshing acidity, making
it instantly appealing and highly enjoyable. At
its best: now to 2022. Score: 93 (Sam Kim,
wineorbit.co.nz, July 2020)
Aromatic & Flavourful
536169 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2
There are fewer than 30 hectares of Albariño in New Zealand, planted
ESK VALLEY SYRAH 2018 mostly in Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne. For perspective,
Hawke’s Bay, North Island plantings of Sauvignon Blanc exceed 25,000 hectares. NZ Albariño is
TASTING NOTE: Supple, spicy syrah with plum, aromatic and refreshing, with citrus, peach, spice and a saline minerality,
black pepper, dried herb, grape stem and spicy and has quickly become a darling of sommeliers the world over. NZ
oak flavours. A solidly-structured wine, with Pinot Gris is closer in style to Alsace than northern Italy. The warmer
a backbone of sappy tannins that suggest North Island produces ripe examples with an unctuous mouthfeel, while
cellaring potential. Good value at this price.
South Island takes are more aromatic and structured. Some producers
Drink date: 2020-2026. Recommended.
Top Value. Score: 93 (Bob Campbell, MW, are experimenting with barrel ageing to further enhance the texture of
therealreview.com, Jan. 28, 2020) both styles. Many of NZ’s “emerging” styles, though made in small
Full-bodied & Smooth quantities, have been around for some time. Planted in NZ in the mid-
17545 (XD) 750 mL $24.95 2 1800s and mostly in Hawke’s Bay, Syrah is elegant, with intense plum
New at Vintages and black pepper spice, and stylistically reminiscent of the Northern
Rhône. First planted here in the early 1800s, NZ Riesling is gaining
well-deserved recognition.
VINTAGES 19NEW ZEALAND TRENDS Healthy options: lower-alcohol and orange wines 20 VINTAGES
THE DOCTORS’ RIESLING 2019
Sustainable, Marlborough, South Island
(Forrest Wines)
TASTING NOTE: Low alcohol (9%) riesling
that should appeal to those who, like me, enjoy
kabinett riesling from the Mosel. Lovely purity
with lime zest, orange blossom, and a sugges-
tion of oyster shell. A perfect acid-and-sugar
balance with a dry-ish and lingering finish.
Drink date: 2020-2025. Recommended.
Top Value. Score: 93 (Bob Campbell, MW,
therealreview.com, Sept. 2, 2020)
Aromatic & Flavourful
12321 (MS) 750 mL $19.95 2
MUDDY WATER SKIN FERMENT 2019
A bird’s-eye view Waipara, South Island
of operations at
Forrest Wines. TASTING NOTE: An emerging sect of NZ
orange wines is breathing a zephyr of change
into the industry there – so often innovators in
so many categories and yet sometimes feeling
a little reluctant to evolve in wine. Muddy
The Doctors’ Riesling, featured here, doubles down on NZ Riesling’s Water has often been in front of the curve,
rising celebrity by also being a top-flight low-alcohol wine. The health however. A great producer from arguably my
benefits of moderate-alcohol wines have inspired years of experimenta- favourite region in NZ. Gewurz, riesling, saint
tion. In NZ, winemakers have been able to exploit the natural advantages laurent, gruner in the mix here. Very chewy,
chalky, farmhouse-cider-esque orange wine of
of their cool climate to bring grapes to full flavour through a long, slow
depth, clarity and complexity. I really like this.
ripening period. This allows their low-alcohol wines to retain their Mandarin, clove, dried citrus peel, bergamot
intensity and varietal characteristics naturally rather than through all jostling. Seriously good and serious tannins,
technological interventions. Orange wines, sometimes referred to as excellent length and generally just a very good
skin-contact wines or amber wines, are typically unfiltered and are expression of the style at a more considered
and detailed end of the spectrum. Excellent.
created by macerating the skins of white grapes with the pressed juice,
Drink: 2020-2030. Score: 95 (Mike Bennie,
as is done in red wine production. The process increases the polyphenol winefront.com.au, April 3, 2020)
content of the wine, enhancing tannins, colour and flavour and resulting
Aromatic & Flavourful
in bolder, more textured wines than their white counterparts. Polyphenols 17825 (XD) 750 mL $29.95 2
are micronutrients found in many plant-based foods. They’re full of New at Vintages
antioxidants (though to a lesser degree than in red wine) and when 4 Organic product
consumed in moderation can offer some health benefits. Though a
Late arrival. Product may not be available
“new” trend, the method dates back thousands of years to the origins at release time.
of winemaking in Georgia.
VINTAGES 21NEW ZEALAND
PRODUCERS
Three of a kind.
These three producers encapsulate the energy
that’s defining the future of New Zealand wine.
Winemaker Joel Watson.
Luna Estate The Hunting Lodge Muddy Water
Sourcing grapes from their Blue Rock An innovative and experimental Experimental from the onset, Muddy
and Eclipse vineyards, Luna is primarily approach has earned The Hunting Lodge Water first planted their vines in 1993 and
focused on Pinot Noir, but this dynamic a strong cult following in New Zealand. grew a wide range of varieties. They kept
Martinborough producer also crafts some Their boutique portfolio includes wines what worked and pulled out what didn’t.
Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, from classic and emerging regions and Among those that remained is a tiny block
Chardonnay and Syrah. Blue Rock was features Marsanne, Viognier, Albariño of the South African grape Pinotage –
planted in 1986 and Eclipse in 1992. and Chardonnay as well as Pinot Noir one of only a handful of such plantings in
These mature vines impart true and Sauvignon Blanc, some of which is New Zealand.
provenance to the wines. sourced from estate vines that are over
40 years old.
22 VINTAGES“New Zealand’s maritime climate, cool
nights and long hours of sunshine
mean many of its wines are refreshing,
with bright fruit, heady aromatics and
abundant acidity … But New Zealand
… also delivers muscular reds, long-
lived Chardonnay, traditional-method
sparkling wines, Riesling of all shapes
and sizes, as well as myriad other
aromatic styles.”
Christina Pickard
Wine Enthusiast, July 28, 2020
“Dark soils, clear skies, warm
breezes” at Muddy Water.
VINTAGES 23NEW ZEALAND CLASSICS Marlborough’s flagship varietals shine across NZ 24 VINTAGES
KA TAHI HAWKE’S BAY CUVÉE
SPARKLING SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019
Hawke’s Bay, North Island
TASTING NOTE: Bright and fresh, the gor-
geously lifted bouquet shows passionfruit,
feijoa, Gala apple and subtle musky aromas,
leading to a vibrant palate that’s flavoursome
and lingering. It’s juicy and mouth-watering
with excellent varietal flavours. At its best: now
to 2023. Score: 91 (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz,
April 2020)
Medium-bodied & Flavourful
18327 (D) 750 mL $24.95 2
New at Vintages
AWATERE RIVER BY LOUIS VAVASOUR
SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020
Vegan, sustainable, Marlborough, South Island
This wine is crafted to reflect the juicy, intense
character of Marlborough Savvy, with excep-
tional vibrancy and zest underlying the purity
of tangy fruit, complex herbaceous tones and
refined minerality. Try it with a vegan spinach-
and-artichoke pasta.
Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir are always Aromatic & Flavourful
492272 (XD) 750 mL $21.95 2
top of mind, but every region is putting its own stamp on New
Late arrival. Product may not be available
Zealand’s signature grapes. Here are some places – from at release time.
north to south – to keep an eye out for:
SAUVIGNON BLANC PINOT NOIR
HAWKE’S BAY Bright acidity and intense fruit. Floral and spicy with cherry and
Eastern coast of the North Island These are often fermented or plum. Many can be quite earthy, but
aged in oak. all are rich, with supple tannins.
MARTINBOROUGH Intense, bright and quite perfumed, Richly flavoured and savoury, with
Southern tip of the North Island with good precision. Herbs, tropical great texture and depth alongside a
fruit and mineral. notably aromatic varietal character.
MARLBOROUGH Herbaceous, aromatic and tropical, Brightly articulated dark and red
Northeast tip of the South Island with excellent vibrancy. fruit, with spicy undertones.
CENTRAL OTAGO Crisp and linear, with herbs, Aromatic and lush, with taut
New Zealand’s southernmost pineapple, passionfruit and a structure, silky texture and
and highest wine region distinct gunflint minerality. true intensity.
VINTAGES 25TE AWANGA SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 Hawke’s Bay, North Island TASTING NOTE: Displaying lovely purity and poise, the wine shows nectarine, feijoa and lemon peel aromas on the nose, leading to a focused palate that is finely textured and vibrant. It is pristine and lively with a terrific thirst-quenching finish. At its best: now to 2023. Score: 93 (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz, Nov. 2020) Aromatic & Flavourful 17553 (XD) 750 mL $23.95 2 New at Vintages LUNA ESTATE PINOT NOIR 2016 Sustainable, Martinborough, North Island TASTING NOTE: Raspberry and red cherry, a little cinnamon and sweet spice, subtle earth and dried herb. Medium bodied, juicy red fruits and sap, light chalky tannin, finish is not the longest, but a lovely drink all up. Approachable and very tasty. Drink: 2017-2024. Score: 91 (Gary Walsh, winefront.com.au, Nov. 1, 2017) Medium-bodied & Fruity 17544 (XD) 750 mL $26.95 2 New at Vintages 26 VINTAGES
Shop this release on
LCBO.COM
Shop from the comfort of home
and avoid store lineups. We offer
three convenient delivery options:
1/ Home Delivery. Order from our
full product selection. Pay a flat
fee ($11.95 + HST) and have
your products at your doorstep
in 3-5 days.
2/ Same-Day Pickup. Shop
the inventory of 180+
Healthy grapes at LCBO stores. See page
Hunting Lodge. BELOW:
Scenes from Luna. 60 for details.
3/ Store Delivery. Order from
our full product selection
and pick up at the LCBO
store of your choice (delivery
takes up to 2 weeks).
THE HUNTING LODGE EXPRESSIONS
SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019
Marlborough, South Island
TASTING NOTE: Wonderfully fruited and
immediately appealing, the wine shows
passionfruit, feijoa, lime peel and subtle musky
characters on the nose, followed by a succulent
palate that is both powerful and delicious. It’s
pristine and vibrant, and fabulously drinkable.
At its best: now to 2022. Score: 93 (Sam Kim,
wineorbit.co.nz, Nov. 2020)
Aromatic & Flavourful
17667 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 2
Featured as our Wine of the Month
New at Vintages
Late arrival. Product may not be available
at release time.
VINTAGES 27WHAT’S ON A snapshot of exciting
events, great wines to try,
new collections, special
offers and more.
ES S E N T I A L S C O L L EC T I O N
Rosés for Mom Pretty up the brunch table this Mother’s
Day with an eminently versatile wine.
If you’re looking for an elegant wine to sip with
food or wrap up as a gift on May 9th, check
out the range of rosés in our always-available
Essentials Collection. From cool-climate
favourites to classic Provençal offerings, you’ll
find plenty to pick from. (If Mom’s partial to
red, white or sparkling wines, the Essentials
Collection features dozens of those, too).
CAVES D’ESCLANS
WHISPERING ANGEL ROSÉ
AC Côtes de Provence, France
325076 (XD) 750 mL $29.95
Medium-bodied & Dry
TAWSE SKETCHES OF NIAGARA ROSÉ 6
VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
172643 (D) 750 mL $17.95
Easygoing & Fruity
MUGA ROSÉ
DOCa Rioja, Spain
603795 (XD) 750 mL $15.95
Easygoing & Fruity
Shopping 1. HOME DELIVERY
Order from our full product
2. SAME-DAY PICKUP
Order from the inventory of
3. STORE DELIVERY
Order from our full product
on lcbo.com? selection. Pay a flat fee and
get products at your door-
one of 180+ Same-Day Pick-
up stores at least 3 hours
selection and have your
products delivered to the
We have three easy ways step in 3-5 days. Service before closing and pick up store of your choice in
to get your products. scheduled to start mid-April. your products that day. 5-14 days.
28 VINTAGESInvite
VINTAGES
TO THE
COTTAGE
COTTAGE WEEKENDS MAY INVOLVE FAMILY ONLY OR A COUPLE OF CLOSE FRIENDS THIS YEAR, but that
doesn’t mean you shouldn’t up the dinner ante with wines worth talking about. We’re bringing a special summer
collection of Vintages wines to many of our smaller stores in cottage country and expanding the selection in others.
Whether you’re headed to points north, south, east or west, it’ll be easier than ever to share a special supper.
Visit lcbo.com/vintages-summer to find a Vintages near you.
O N L I N E C O L L EC T I O N S
May Classics: order soon!
SPRING IS JUST THE TIME TO REFRESH the stocks in your cellar with a bottle or two
from our newest Classics Collection. • Gems from Bordeaux’s sensual 2015 vintage and
Burgundy’s outstanding 2018s. • High-scoring, cellarable wines from throughout Italy.
• Characterful Spanish reds and an ageworthy old-vine white. • A complex Ontario Cab and
a balanced BC Pinot. • Beautiful, terroir-driven New Zealand Pinot. • From South Africa,
two near-perfect takes on Cabernet Franc, and the 100-point Mullineux Olerasay 2°.
• Zuccardi’s glorious Finca Piedra Infinita Paraje Altamira Malbec 2016. • Complex Chilean
wines including the 100-point Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2018.
Visit lcbo.com/vintages-classics. Ordering starts May 6.
VINTAGES 29LOCAL
FIND An insider’s
guide to great
Ontario wines. I love it
because...
The Riesling grapes in this sparkling
1. were dried, contributing to the
concentrated orchard fruit flavours.
This winery specializes in the
Laura Ruffolo
Ontario Wine Buyer 2. appassimento method; grapes are
dried before they’re vinified, adding
complexity and richness to the wine.
3. It’s a hit pairing with a
cheese platter.
Adventures
close to home
The Foreign Affair proves that
when it comes to the exotic, you
needn’t travel far; they’ve spent
the last 20 years making local
wines with an international flair.
For the Brut Sparkling Rosé,
they take some of the best grapes
Ontario has to offer and give
them the appassimento treat-
ment made famous in Veneto.
Pour this elegant sparkler on
a sunny afternoon and find the
excitement in the everyday.
THE FOREIGN AFFAIR
BRUT SPARKLING
ROSÉ 2019 6
Charmat method,
VQA Ontario
19346 (D)
750 mL $24.95 2
Light & Fruity
90 points
(winealign.com)
For complete tasting
note and to order online,
see page 32.UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
FORTIFIED WINE
PORT
product notes FONSECA LATE BOTTLED
VINTAGE PORT 2015
WANT TO SHOP CANADIAN?
Unfiltered, DOP, Portugal
Look for this icon to support products that are
6
made in Canada.
Late Bottled Vintage Port was developed as an
alternative to Vintage Port, for relaxed occasions.
Whereas Vintage Port is bottled after only two
DRINKABILITY INDEX years in wood, LBV is bottled after four to six years
This index is intended as a guideline and reflects the and is ready to drink when bottled. This wine was
collective view of our purchasing panel. grown on Fonseca’s own vineyards and brings
notions of sweet, ripe and dried berry and plum.
DRINK NOW: Enjoy tonight. There is no benefit
1
to cellaring. Sweet
750 mL (S) $23.95 2
DRINK OR HOLD: Can be enjoyed now, but may be
2
matured further by cellaring. 87551 ÍwWÈ1TÎ
HOLD: This wine may be enjoyed now, but it will
3
develop favourably under ideal cellaring conditions.
SUGAR CONTENT MADEIRA
Residual sugar content (e.g., 5 g/L) is displayed on shelf signs
and online (visit lcbo.com and search the product number). COSSART GORDON FULL RICH
Perceived sweetness – ranging from Extra Dry to Sweet or XD, 5-YEAR-OLD MALMSEY MADEIRA
D, M, MS, S – is printed in this catalogue, on shelf signs and DOP, Portugal
online. Please discuss specifics with a Product Consultant. TASTING NOTE: As plump as a fresh fig, this is
juicy and generous, lasting on a contrast between
WINE STYLES that fresh figgy ripeness and a savory note of
coffee. A hint of mintiness keeps it clean. Score: 92
Every wine in this section includes a style (e.g. Full-bodied &
(wineandspiritsmagazine.com, Oct. 2018)
Smooth, Aromatic & Flavourful) designed to help you quickly
and easily choose products. Visit lcbo.com/winestyles. Sweet
750 mL (S) $33.95 2
ORGANIC PRODUCTS 18590 Í2[È0zÎ
Wines designated as organic 4 contain 30 mg/L or less of free
sulphur for dry wines (99 g/L sugar).
ALCOHOL CONTENT
The alcohol/volume content for any product released by VERMOUTH
Vintages is available online. Visit lcbo.com/vintages and enter
the product number into the search field. GUERRA ROJO VERMOUTH
Spain
Products in this catalogue are available in stores and online TASTING NOTE: A Christmas spiced, evergreen
in limited quantities. perfumed red vermouth with an expected degree
of sweetness and warm appeal. Complex and
All reviews, scores, prices and content in this catalogue are aromatic and quite enthralling. Best served with a
accurate and current at time of printing. Prices are subject chill happily on its own. Memorable. Score: 90
to change without notice. For up-to-date prices, visit (Sara d’Amato, winealign.com, Nov. 20, 2017)
lcbo.com/vintages. All prices include applicable container
Sweet
deposit and HST. Vintages cannot assume responsibility
750 mL (S) $19.95
for typographical errors in this catalogue.
542852 ÍVUNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
CHAMPAGNE INDOMITA BRUT SPARKLING 2019
Casablanca Valley, Chile
Chile’s cool-climate Casablanca Valley is ideal for
TAITTINGER PRESTIGE BRUT
sparkling wines, as this blend of 60% Chardonnay
ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE
with 40% Pinot Noir attests. The fruit is harvested
AC, France
by hand in maritime-fog-tempered vineyards and
TASTING NOTE: The latest release of Taittinger’s NV
undergoes second fermentation in temperature-
Brut Prestige Rosé is showing very well, revealing
controlled stainless steel. Expect crunchy orchard
inviting aromas of red berries, plums, orange zest,
fruit and fresh citrus, and sip with seafood.
crisp orchard fruit and freshly baked bread. Medium
to full-bodied, fleshy but incisive, this bottling is Medium-bodied & Flavourful
based on the Brut Réserve, yet the addition of still 750 mL (D) $14.95 2
red wine – much of which is produced in house –
imparts structuring phenolics that complement the 18561 Í2XÈ1xÎ
wine’s generous core of fruit to great effect. Score: 91
(William Kelley, robertparker.com, Sept. 20, 2020)
Rich & Complex
750 mL (D) $88.95 2
993113 ÍÇ?-ÇÎ
KA TAHI HAWKE’S BAY CUVÉE
SPARKLING WINE SPARKLING SAUVIGNON BLANC
2019
THE FOREIGN AFFAIR Hawke’s Bay, North Island,
BRUT SPARKLING ROSÉ 2019 6 New Zealand
Charmat method, VQA Ontario TASTING NOTE: Bright and fresh, the gorgeously
TASTING NOTE: Good solid sparkling Rosé here lifted bouquet shows passionfruit, feijoa, Gala
from The Affair, justly funky and righteously ripping apple and subtle musky aromas, leading to a vibrant
to great effect. Lots of character and a wine that palate that’s flavoursome and lingering. It’s juicy
really holds your attention. Drink: 2020-2022. and mouth-watering with excellent varietal flavours.
Score: 90 (Michael Godel, winealign.com, At its best: now to 2023. Score: 91 (Sam Kim,
Oct. 26, 2020) wineorbit.co.nz, April 2020)
Light & Fruity Medium-bodied & Flavourful
750 mL (D) $24.95 2 750 mL (D) $24.95 2
19346 Í3BÈ6aÎ 18327 Í2@È7`Î
Featured in Local Find Featured in What’s New, New Zealand?
CHANDON BRUT SPARKLING ROSÉ CELENE BORDEAUX AMÉTHYSTE
Traditional method, California BLANC DE NOIRS BRUT
This sparkling rosé comes from the California arm CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX
of Chandon, otherwise known as the producers of Traditional method, AC, France
Dom Pérignon. It spent one year resting on the lees TASTING NOTE: This wine is ripe and fruity, with a
and is refined and elegant, with well-defined ripe creamy character. The acidity and the fruits are
fruit and a toasty background. Balanced and precise, maturing well, giving the wine richness and depth
it’s a nice value option to Champagne. Sip, or pair of flavor. Drink now. Editors’ Choice. Score: 90
with seafood appetizers or duck. (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, March 1, 2020)
Medium-bodied & Flavourful Medium-bodied & Flavourful
750 mL (D) $35.95 1 750 mL (D) $17.95 1
405555 ÍHWW(Î 19031 Í3#È1vÎ
32 VINTAGES SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
CANADA – WHITE WINE TAWSE LIMESTONE RIDGE-NORTH
ESTATE BOTTLED RIESLING 2017 6
ONTARIO VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment
TASTING NOTE: Wow! This is an intense, nervy
CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES ST. DAVID’S riesling with all kinds of apple, citrus and floral
BENCH VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2016 6 (jasmin) character ... so well balanced in terms of
VQA St. David’s Bench, Niagara-on-the-Lake acid and sugar, with really impressive fruit intensity
This barrel-fermented Chard is crafted in a burly and drive. It is bracing and almost relentless in terms
Burgundian style; a notion enhanced by the year of flavour depth ... Some grapefruity bitterness on
it spends ageing on the lees. It’s creamy, rich and the finish. Excellent to outstanding length. I can see
smoky, with ripe pear, apple and spice notes all some finding [it] too aggressive, but others will relish
framed and accented by a gorgeous touch of toast. this wine. Score: 93 (David Lawrason, winealign.
Tangy, fresh and vibrant, this will be ideal for com, May 19, 2020)
stuffed pork tenderloin or grilled salmon. Aromatic & Flavourful
Full-bodied & Rich 750 mL (M) $21.95 2
750 mL (XD) $24.95 2 431593 ÍK/}MÎ
430991 ÍK){;Î 4 Organic product
CANADA – RED WINE
HENRY OF PELHAM SPECK FAMILY
RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2019 6
VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Escarpment
ONTARIO
TASTING NOTE: This a solid, well constructed, CREEKSIDE LAURA’S RED 2017 6
complex chardonnay that could use a year or three VQA Niagara Peninsula
of bottle age. The aromas are a bit reserved at the TASTING NOTE: ... The 2017 is one of the best in
moment but very complex with yellow fruit, custard, years because it mixes complexity and elegance:
nutmeg, peat and mineral flinty notes. It is quite lots of cassis, blackberry, and black cherry in the
full bodied, firm and well balanced, with impressive fruit department. Then we get subtle spice, coffee/
structure and intensity. This is very good value. mocha, black licorice and tobacco... There’s a
Score: 92 (David Lawrason, winealign.com, decade ahead of this wine and its peak is still, at
Oct. 30, 2020) least, five years away. Classic wine from an unlikely
Full-bodied & Rich vintage. Score: HHHHJ (michaelpinkuswine
750 mL (XD) $29.95 2 review.com, Sept. 22, 2020)
616466 Í]`bpÎ Medium-bodied & Fruity
750 mL (XD) $25.00 2
117960 Í+o\JÎ
TAWSE SKETCHES
CABERNET/MERLOT 2018 6
VQA Niagara Peninsula
Inspired by the classic red blends of Bordeaux, this
RIVERVIEW CELLARS wine combines the towering power and angular
SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 6 structure of Cabernet with the smooth, seductive
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake charm of Merlot to paint a vivid portrait of the
TASTING NOTE: A crisp, fresh Niagara Sauvignon Niagara Peninsula. Expect nervy currant, plum and
Blanc with aromas of lime citrus and melon. Pair blackberry fruit, with touches of smoky espresso
with seafood. Drink: 2020-2022. Best Value Wine. from barrel maturation in French oak, and pair with
Score: 90 (nataliemaclean.com, June 9, 2020) roast beef dinner.
Aromatic & Flavourful Medium-bodied & Fruity
750 mL (D) $17.15 2 750 mL (XD) $21.95 2
351494 ÍC.~FÎ 130252 Í-”ThÎ
Featured in Back by Popular Demand
SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021 VINTAGES 33UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
CANADA – RED WINE CONT’D FLOWERS CHARDONNAY 2017
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County
TASTING NOTE: Aromas of sliced apples, lemon
BRITISH COLUMBIA
curd and hints of pineapple. Full-bodied with peach
BURROWING OWL ATHENE 2017 6 and pineapple flavors. Layered and beautiful. Lovely
Estate bottled, BC VQA Okanagan Valley tannic tension. Flavorful finish. Savory. Drink now
TASTING NOTE: A wonderfully juicy blend of syrah [to 2022+]. Score: 94 (jamessuckling.com,
and cabernet sauvignon that is wildly aromatic May 3, 2019)
with black pepper, cassis, rose and violet. Grippy Full-bodied & Rich
tannins have softened somewhat and are just 750 mL (XD) $59.95 2
accessible. A vein of fresh acidity helps lighten the
mood while gentle oak spice helps to elevate the 215210 Í5T*VÎ
fruit ... Score: 92 (Sara d’Amato, winealign.com,
June 23, 2020)
Full-bodied & Firm
750 mL (XD) $44.95 2
371336 ÍE-DfÎ
Featured in Back by Popular Demand
CANADA – ROSÉ WINE GRGICH HILLS ESTATE GROWN
CHARDONNAY 2017
ONTARIO Napa Valley
TASTING NOTE: The 2017 Chardonnay features
FEATHERSTONE ROSÉ 2020 6 compelling key lime pie, fresh grapefruit and
VQA Niagara Peninsula toasted almonds notes with hints of sea spray,
In 2019, David Johnson was named Winemaker struck match and ginger. Medium-bodied, the
of the Year at the Ontario Wine Awards while palate is elegant and charged with energy, revealing
Featherstone celebrated its 20th vintage. Dave a racy backbone that beautifully extends the zest
and the team must’ve still been blushing in 2020 and spice laced finish. Drink date: 2019-2026.
with the most recent bottling of this pink blend Score: 93 (Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW, robertparker.
of Cab Franc, Gamay and Merlot, beloved for its com, Oct. 31, 2019)
vibrant red berry fruit and food-friendly versatility. Full-bodied & Rich
Easygoing & Fruity 750 mL (XD) $65.95 2
750 mL (D) $15.95 1 346304 ÍB_$gÎ
117861 Í+n]KÎ
Featured in Back by Popular Demand
USA – WHITE WINE LAKE SONOMA CHARDONNAY 2018
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County
CALIFORNIA TASTING NOTE: The cooler Russian River Valley
has imparted some acid driven levity and bright-
DECOY CHARDONNAY 2018 ness, yet there is still considerable ripeness with
Sonoma County peach/apricot fruit, some orange blossom and
(Duckhorn) moderate oak spice. It is medium-full bodied,
TASTING NOTE: This is an appealing wine that almost creamy in texture with moderate alcohol.
comes at a great value. Crisp acidity keeps it The balance is very good here. Could be a dram
balanced against a backdrop of richer brioche, drier but this is solid. Very good to excellent length.
toffee and vanilla-cream elements. Editors’ Choice. Score: 89 (David Lawrason, winealign.com,
Score: 90 (Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast, June 5, 2020)
Aug. 1, 2020)
Full-bodied & Rich
Full-bodied & Rich 750 mL (XD) $26.95 2
750 mL (XD) $34.95 2
541557 ÍV/YSÎ
311555 Í?/W6Î
34 VINTAGES SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
MICHAEL DAVID CHARDONNAY 2019 BEAR FLAG
Lodi ZINFANDEL 2016
The grapes for this wine are hand-picked and used Sonoma County
to make three Chardonnays, which are then blended TASTING NOTE: Blended of 89% Zinfandel,
together to create the final wine. The portions 7% Petite Sirah and 4% Teroldego and aged in
fermented and aged in stainless steel bring lift, French and American oak, the medium to deep
freshness and crisp fruit, while those elements garnet-purple colored 2016 Zinfandel bursts from
fermented and aged in French oak and on the lees the glass with baked raspberries, redcurrant jelly
impart complexity, depth and a round, soft texture. and Black Forest cake notes with hints of tree
Pair with grilled chicken or pork chops. bark, cracked pepper and Indian spices plus a waft
of potpourri. Full-bodied, rich, velvety and wonder-
Full-bodied & Rich
fully spicy in the mouth, it gives up loads of earthy
750 mL (XD) $26.95 2 layers on the long finish. Drink date: 2019-2024.
396283 ÍG^s”Î Score: 91 (Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW, robertparker.
com, Jan. 31, 2019)
Full-bodied & Smooth
750 mL (XD) $36.95 2
18511 Í2SÈ1nÎ
TOM GORE CHARDONNAY 2018 DISTRICT 7 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018
California Sustainable, estate grown, Monterey County
Crafted in an “old school” style, this wine offers TASTING NOTE: Dry; soft tannins; relaxed acidity
incredible value along with robust and ripe flavours. (3.76 pH). Soft, juicy, delicious, but retains cab
A big-shouldered, creamy California Chard with boldness. Medium-full body. Nice dark-fruit linger-
apple, vanilla and butter notes, it will drink well for ing finish; 100% cabernet sauvignon. Grapes
another 3-5 years. Pour with oven-baked pork sorted, crushed, fermented in small lots. Gentle
chops dressed with rosemary and garlic. handling, minimal intervention allows the estate fruit
to make the flavor statement. Finished 10 months
Full-bodied & Rich
in French, American, and Hungarian oak, 30% new.
750 mL (XD) $17.95 2 (gusclemens.com, Oct. 28, 2020)
458810 ÍMx*OÎ Medium-bodied & Fruity
750 mL (XD) $17.95 2
USA – RED WINE 10473 Í*OÈ3fÎ
Featured in Back by Popular Demand
CALIFORNIA
AUROS NAPA VALLEY
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2016
Napa Valley
TASTING NOTE: Aged 18 months in French oak, HAHN GSM 2018
this wine was made with fruit (including some Petit Central Coast
Verdot and Malbec) sourced from three of Napa TASTING NOTE: Aromas of dark red berry and
Valley’s sub-appellations: Oak Knoll, Oakville, and crumpled hibiscus make for a delicious entry to the
the Stags Leap District, with 15 different soil types nose of this blend of 69% Grenache, 29% Syrah
among them. Aromas of fresh blackberry and plum and 2% Mourvèdre. The palate is lively in acidity
combine with a hint of mocha on the inspired nose and texturally engaging, carrying flavors of dark
as grainy tannins, a rich mouthfeel, and balanced berry, licorice and star anise. Ranked #42 in Wine
fruit and acid make this red work to its optimal ability. Enthusiast’s Top 100 Best Buys of 2020. Score: 90
Leather and fennel come in for a savory finish. (Matt Kettman, Wine Enthusiast, Nov. 1, 2020)
Score: 93 (Meridith May, tastingpanelmag.com,
Oct. 2019) Full-bodied & Smooth
Full-bodied & Firm
750 mL (XD) $19.95 2
750 mL (XD) $79.95 2 441568 ÍL/djÎ
17121 Í1,È1ÊÎ
SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021 VINTAGES 35UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
USA – RED WINE CONT’D SHANNON HOME RANCH RESERVE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017
CALIFORNIA Lake County
TASTING NOTE: Big, very ripe and velvety, this
HEAD HIGH PINOT NOIR 2018 full-bodied wine is packed with black cherry, black
Sonoma County fig and a dash of baking spices. It’s quite smooth,
TASTING NOTE: ... sourced from top Sonoma moderately tannic and easy to sip. Score: 90 (Jim
County parcels including Durell, Wildcat and Gordon, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 31, 2020)
Sangiocomo Family Vineyards. Perfumed violets, Full-bodied & Smooth
lifted summer pudding aromas and flavours and 750 mL (D) $29.95 2
bright acidity make this a really quaffable style,
supported by gentle wood smoke notes from 10 574327 ÍYK;4Î
months in French oak barrels, 25% new. Drinking
window: 2020-2024. Score: 92 (Tina Gellie,
decanter.com, July 7, 2020)
Medium-bodied & Fruity
750 mL (XD) $24.95 2
12892 Í,yÈ2QÎ
McMANIS MERLOT 2019* SILVER OAK ALEXANDER VALLEY
Sustainable, estate grown, Lodi CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2016
From a popular wine family now into its fifth Alexander Valley, Sonoma County
generation to work the vines, this Merlot is gene- TASTING NOTE: Concentrated and intense nose with
rously aromatic, well-structured, rich and silky, dense blackcurrant fruit, elegant pencil shavings and
with ample juicy dark fruit and a compelling herbal herbal notes. Grippy tannins with cassis framed by
complexity. Pair with lamb, grilled sausages or vanilla oak. Drinking window: 2020-2030. Score: 91
smoky ribs. (decanter.com, Dec. 11, 2020)
Full-bodied & Smooth Full-bodied & Firm
750 mL (XD) $21.95 2 750 mL (XD) $120.95 2
17674 Í1cÈ42Î 943472 Í~BhgÎ
TREFETHEN FAMILY VINEYARDS
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017
Sustainable, Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley
NOBLE VINES 337 TASTING NOTE: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4%
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017 Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc ... a dark opaque black,
Lodi but its soft, respiring resins and calmly ordered
TASTING NOTE: Lavish oak spices meld seamlessly fruits alert the drinker from the aromatic profile
with ripe, exotic fruit flavors on a firm but silky alone that the wine has nothing monstrous or
texture. It’s well balanced, seductive and combines disproportionate about it. It’s ripe but supple and
freshness and liveliness with deep and layered graceful, with as much juicy acidity as textured
flavors. Best Buy. Score: 90 (Jim Gordon, Wine tannins: drinkable, accessible and fresh. The Napa
Enthusiast, May 1, 2020) hallmark of opulence is there in the succulent grain
Full-bodied & Firm of the fruit, but in every other respect this is deft,
750 mL (D) $17.00 2 finely judged midweight. Best in Show. Score: 97
(Decanter World Wine Awards, 2020)
483321 ÍPA5lÎ
Full-bodied & Firm
As seen in Food & Drink magazine 750 mL (XD) $68.95 3
and Back by Popular Demand
95752 ÍÃkÈ2!Î
36 VINTAGES SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021 *Late arrival. Product may not be available at release time.UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
Z. ALEXANDER BROWN UNCAGED SUSANA BALBO
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018 SIGNATURE MALBEC 2018
California Uco Valley, Mendoza
TASTING NOTE: This is a serious, full-bodied wine (Dominio del Plata)
from musician Zac Brown that will need some TASTING NOTE: Gustavo Bertagna has added
time to grow into its best self. Tight fruit and spice 8% Cabernet Franc to this polished Paraje Altamira
flavors are wrapped in firm tannins. While delicious Malbec to give it “more length and freshness” and
now, it could wait until 2023 to be best enjoyed. the evidence is there in the glass. Dense, serious
Score: 90 (Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast, and built for the longer haul, it’s inky, layered and
Sept. 1, 2020) profound, with blackberry and liquorice flavours,
scented oak and impressive balance. Drink date:
Full-bodied & Firm
2022-2028. Score: 93 (Tim Atkin, MW, timatkin.
750 mL (XD) $21.95 2 com, Argentina Special Report 2020)
478628 ÍOvUNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
CHILE – RED WINE AUSTRALIA – RED WINE
ARBOLEDA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018 D’ARENBERG THE STUMP JUMP
DO Aconcagua Valley GRENACHE/SHIRAZ/MOURVÈDRE 2017*
(Eduardo Chadwick) McLaren Vale, South Australia
TASTING NOTE: The subtle tobacco, blackcurrant TASTING NOTE: Sweetly fruited and inviting, the
and sliced-mushroom character is impressive on bouquet shows raspberry, Black Doris plum, olive
the nose with hints of spice and black chocolate. and toasted nut aromas, followed by a beautifully
Medium to full body with a compressed fruit and supple palate that’s juicy and lingering. It’s upfront
tannin feel. Racy and structured at the finish. Grippy. and silky with bright fruit intensity, making it
Needs time to come around. Better after 2021. instantly appealing. At its best: now to 2022.
Score: 93 (jamessuckling.com, April 17, 2020) Score: 90 (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz, May 2020)
Full-bodied & Firm Medium-bodied & Fruity
750 mL (XD) $19.95 3 750 mL (XD) $15.95 2
606764 Í\c`oÎ 173294 Í1@~XÎ
Featured in Back by Popular Demand
EMILIANA NOVAS GRAN RESERVA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018
Vegan, sustainable, DO Maipo Valley
TASTING NOTE: The 2018 vintage seems to be one
EBONY MARGARET RIVER
of the best of the decade. Its moderate temperatures
CABERNET SHIRAZ 2017*
have given well-balanced wines with fresh fruit such
Margaret River, Western Australia
as this delicate and fruity cabernet, with aromas of
(Deep Woods)
red fruits and herbs. And its light-but-tense body
TASTING NOTE: Delicious tobacco and dark-berry
makes it an excellent candidate for a barbecue. This
aromas and flavors here with wet earth. Medium
cabernet comes from vines planted in 1992 on the
body. Light tannins. Fresh and simple finish. Drink
alluvial soils of the Linderos area in the traditional
now. Score: 90 (jamessuckling.com, June 26, 2019)
Maipo Valley. Score: 92 (Patricio Tapia, guiade
scorchados.cl, 2021) Full-bodied & Smooth
Medium-bodied & Fruity
750 mL (XD) $19.95 1
750 mL (XD) $15.95 1 18339 Í2AÈ9jÎ
13874 Í-wÈ4VÎ
4 Organic product
MONTGRAS ANTU GRENACHE/ SISTER’S RUN OLD TESTAMENT
SYRAH/CARIGNAN 2018 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018
Sustainable, DO Colchagua Valley Coonawarra, South Australia
TASTING NOTE: MontGras planted a hillside in TASTING NOTE: Dense, detailed and wonderfully
Ninquén in 2000, mainly to cabernet and syrah. savory, with herbal accents of sage and bay leaf to
This blend contains 35% syrah from those planta- the dense and concentrated blackberry flavors at
tions, but it also has 50% grenache (the rest is the core, where a touch of espresso weaves in and
carignan) from younger vineyards that offer a wine out. Spice, mahogany and white pepper notes linger
with delicious ripe red fruit in a very smooth and on the finish. Drink now through 2031. Score: 91
fresh context. Within the MontGras catalog, this is (MaryAnn Worobiec, winespectator.com,
a subversive wine. Score: 93 (Patricio Tapia, Aug. 31, 2020)
guiadescorchados.cl, 2020) Full-bodied & Firm
Medium-bodied & Fruity 750 mL (XD) $17.95 2
750 mL (XD) $18.95 2 478271 ÍOrg.Î
17134 Í1-È4-Î Featured in Back by Popular Demand
38 VINTAGES SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021 *Late arrival. Product may not be available at release time.UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
WITS END LUNA LEFTFIELD GISBORNE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2019* ALBARIÑO 2019
McLaren Vale, South Australia Gisborne, North Island
TASTING NOTE: Offering classic varietal purity TASTING NOTE: 100% Albariño. Richly aromatic,
with gorgeous fruit power, the wine shows cassis, weighty style with marked roundness and classic
dark cherry, cedar and subtle spice aromas on peach, mid-palate weight. Provides enjoyable
the nose with a hint of dried herb complexity. It’s youthful drinking now. Score: 91 (Decanter World
wonderfully weighted and supple on the palate, Wine Awards, 2020)
displaying excellent fruit intensity backed by fine
Aromatic & Flavourful
chalky tannins, finishing long and flavoursome. At
its best: now to 2029. Score: 93 (Sam Kim, wine
750 mL (XD) $19.95 1
orbit.co.nz, Aug. 2020) 17551 Í1WÈ1uÎ
Full-bodied & Firm Featured in What’s New, New Zealand?
750 mL (XD) $19.95 2
921239 Í|,G=Î
Featured in Back by Popular Demand
MUDDY WATER SKIN
FERMENT 2019*
Waipara, South Island
TASTING NOTE: An emerging sect of NZ orange
XANADU EXMOOR wines is breathing a zephyr of change into the
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017 industry there ... Gewurz, riesling, saint laurent, gruner
Margaret River, Western Australia in the mix here. Very chewy, chalky, farmhouse-
TASTING NOTE: The brightest purple/red colour. cider-esque orange wine of depth, clarity and
It’s modern, bright and fruit-driven – Ribena and complexity. I really like this. Mandarin, clove, dried
cinnamon, with the taming whiff of spicy oak. Juicy citrus peel, bergamot all jostling. Seriously good
berries on the palate – that fruit burst of crisp and serious tannins, excellent length and generally
blueberries. Terrific winemaking. Serious with just a very good expression of the style at a more
instant appeal. Drink date: 2019-2025. Score: 93 considered and detailed end of the spectrum.
(Nick Butler, therealreview.com, June 30, 2019) Excellent. Drink: 2020-2030. Score: 95 (Mike
Full-bodied & Firm Bennie, winefront.com.au, April 3, 2020)
750 mL (XD) $19.95 2 Aromatic & Flavourful
18344 Í2BÈ4XÎ 750 mL (XD) $29.95 2
17825 Í1rÈ5TÎ
Featured in What’s New, New Zealand?
4 Organic product
NEW ZEALAND – WHITE WINE SOHO ZIGGY PINOT GRIS 2020
Vegan, Marlborough, South Island
AWATERE RIVER BY LOUIS VAVASOUR TASTING NOTE: This is delightfully fruited and
SAUVIGNON BLANC 2020* expressed, showing rockmelon, fresh pear, Gala
Vegan, sustainable, Marlborough, South Island apple and floral characters. The palate displays
This wine is crafted to reflect the juicy, intense excellent fruit intensity together with supple
character of Marlborough Savvy, with exceptional mouthfeel and refreshing acidity, making it instantly
vibrancy and zest underlying the purity of tangy fruit, appealing and highly enjoyable. At its best: now
complex herbaceous tones and refined minerality. to 2022. Score: 93 (Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz,
Try it with a vegan spinach-and-artichoke pasta. July 2020)
Aromatic & Flavourful Aromatic & Flavourful
750 mL (XD) $21.95 2 750 mL (XD) $19.95 2
492272 ÍQ6h”Î 536169 ÍU]ekÎ
Featured in What’s New, New Zealand? Featured in What’s New, New Zealand?
*Late arrival. Product may not be available at release time. SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021 VINTAGES 39UNCORK SOMETHING GREAT • SATURDAY, MAY 1, 2021
NEW ZEALAND – WHITE WINE CONT’D NEW ZEALAND – RED WINE
TE AWANGA ESK VALLEY
SAUVIGNON BLANC 2019 SYRAH 2018
Hawke’s Bay, North Island Hawke’s Bay, North Island
TASTING NOTE: Displaying lovely purity and poise, TASTING NOTE: Supple, spicy syrah with plum,
the wine shows nectarine, feijoa and lemon peel black pepper, dried herb, grape stem and spicy oak
aromas on the nose, leading to a focused palate flavours. A solidly-structured wine, with a backbone
that is finely textured and vibrant. It is pristine and of sappy tannins that suggest cellaring potential.
lively with a terrific thirst-quenching finish. At its Good value at this price. Drink date: 2020-2026.
best: now to 2023. Score: 93 (Sam Kim, wineorbit. Recommended. Top Value. Score: 93 (Bob Campbell,
co.nz, Nov. 2020) MW, therealreview.com, Jan. 28, 2020)
Aromatic & Flavourful Full-bodied & Smooth
750 mL (XD) $23.95 2 750 mL (XD) $24.95 2
17553 Í1WÈ3}Î 17545 Í1VÈ5ÇÎ
Featured in What’s New, New Zealand? Featured in What’s New, New Zealand?
THE DOCTORS’ RIESLING 2019
Sustainable, Marlborough, South Island LUNA ESTATE PINOT NOIR 2016
(Forrest Wines) Sustainable, Martinborough,
TASTING NOTE: Low alcohol (9%) riesling that North Island
should appeal to those who, like me, enjoy kabinett TASTING NOTE: Raspberry and red cherry, a little
riesling from the Mosel. Lovely purity with lime zest, cinnamon and sweet spice, subtle earth and dried
orange blossom, and a suggestion of oyster shell. herb. Medium bodied, juicy red fruits and sap,
A perfect acid-and-sugar balance with a dry-ish and light chalky tannin, finish is not the longest, but a
lingering finish. Drink date: 2020-2025. Recom- lovely drink all up. Approachable and very tasty.
mended. Top Value. Score: 93 (Bob Campbell, MW, Drink: 2017-2024. Score: 91 (Gary Walsh,
therealreview.com, Sept. 2, 2020) winefront.com.au, Nov. 1, 2017)
Aromatic & Flavourful Medium-bodied & Fruity
750 mL (MS) $19.95 2 750 mL (XD) $26.95 2
12321 Í,@È1BÎ 17544 Í1VÈ4ÃÎ
Featured in What’s New, New Zealand? Featured in What’s New, New Zealand?
THE HUNTING LODGE NEW ZEALAND – ROSÉ WINE
EXPRESSIONS SAUVIGNON
BLANC 2019*
OYSTER BAY ROSÉ 2020
Marlborough, South Island
Marlborough, South Island
TASTING NOTE: Wonderfully fruited and immedi-
From the iconic Oyster Bay, this 100% Pinot Noir
ately appealing, the wine shows passionfruit, feijoa,
is loaded with bright red cherry, strawberry and
lime peel and subtle musky characters on the nose,
melon, with a vibrant, food-friendly acidity. Famously
followed by a succulent palate that is both powerful
versatile with food, it’s a great rosé for brunch
and delicious. It’s pristine and vibrant, and fabu-
or dinner.
lously drinkable. At its best: now to 2022. Score: 93
(Sam Kim, wineorbit.co.nz, Nov. 2020) [The San Francisco International Wine Competition
did not include a tasting note.] Score: Gold (San
Aromatic & Flavourful
Francisco International Wine Competition, 2020)
750 mL (XD) $19.95 2
Easygoing & Fruity
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