Justin's Wine Picks December 3, 2013

Wines released for sale in Ontario on Saturday December 7.

The theme of this LCBO offering is Making Merry and there are a bundle of Jolly Vinos that you can look forward to finding under the tree or on your festive table this year.

Sheila and I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and to Thank You all for the fun wine communications over the past year. It is very neat to be able to keep in touch with all my old customers and our friends through this medium!

In the spirit of this two way flow I would encourage everyone out there to support one of my favourite charities. Send your donations to:

Boys and Girls Clubs of Kingston & Area

559 Bagot Street Kingston Ontario.

K7K 3E1.

Those of us lucky enough to sit by a warm fire with a glass of something can surely give a little of that warmth to those less fortunate.

This will be my last missive of this year but I look forward to sharing more wine adventures with you all in 2014. Happy New Years to all!

One of my favourite Single Malt Scotches would be welcome in any Whisky lovers stocking: The Balvenie Portwood 21 Years Old Speyside $274.95. “ Rich & Succulent.”

Need something really sweet to compliment your Christmas pudding? Go for De Bortoli Noble One Botrytis Semillon 2009 Australia $31.95 (375 ml ). “Very sweet and rich in the mouth...good backbone of very crisp acid cutting through the opulence.”

Here is a choice of very good bubblies for New Years Eve or any other meal:

Flat Rock Cellars Riddled Sparkling Wine Niagara 2008 $24.95. Great aperitif!

Roederer Estate Brut Sparkling California $29.95. Always exceptional!

Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut Cap Classique 2011 S. Africa $19.95. BEST BUY!

Pfaffenheim Blanc De Blancs Brut Cremant D'Alsace $16.95. “Very elegant, very enjoyable.”

Bredif Brut Vouvray Loire $20.95. Green Apple, Peach, Pear.

Perlage Canah Brut Prosecco 2012 $19.95. Honey Dew Melon, green apple, pear.

Juve Y Camps Cinta Purpura Reserva Brut Cava Spain $17.95. Who needs Champagne?

Best White Wine: A tie between two Alsace treats. Andre Blanck Et Ses Fils Clos Schwendi Pinot Gris 2012 $18.95 and Joseph Cattin Gewurztraminer 2011 $17.95. Use the Pinot Gris with your turkey and the Gewurztraminer with curried turkey leftovers.

Superb Whites.

Rosewood Sussreserve Riesling Niagara 2012 $14.95.

Cave Spring Estate CSV Niagara 2011 $18.95. Rich, smooth, spicy.

Vignobles Guilhem Le Viognier Midi 2012 $15.95.

Best Red Wine: Choose from two stunning Tuscans. Fattoria Dei Barbi Brunello Di Montalcino 2007 and Pietranera Brunello Di Montalcino 2007 $37.95. These are long-term keepers for your cellar.

Australian Delights

Dandelion Vineyards Lionheart Of The Barossa Shiraz 2011 $19.95. Very rich, non-fined, non-filtered.

Kilikanoon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 $34.95. “Epic in its concentration and purity.”

Saltram Mamre Brook Shiraz 2010 $26.95. “Huge, rich, ripe and young.”

Thorn-Clarke Shotfire Shiraz 2011 Barossa $21.95. “Rich, fleshy and dense.”

Top Quality Reds

Domaine Chante Cigale Tradition Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2010 $41.95. “ This Cuvee possesses remarkable density and richness as well as the potential to last 20 years.”

Les Vignerons De Visan Cotes Du Rhone Villages 2011 $15.95. This is a WOW!!

Villa Medoro Rosso Del Duca Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2009 $18.95. Amazing Wine!!

Beni Di Batasiolo Langhe Rosso 2010 Piedmont $16.95. Drink with Prime Rib.

Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2010 Veneto $24.95. A wine with finesse!

Quinta Dos Carvalhais Duque De Viseu Portugal 2009 $13.95. BARGAIN!!

Juan Gil White Label Monastrell 2012 Spain $15.95. “seductively smooth, tangy raspberry.”

Finca Flichman Paisaje De Barrancas 2010 Argentina $17.95. “Remarkable blend of Syrah, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. Intense...with fruit that really packs a wallop.”

Cannonball Merlot 2011 Sonoma $21.95. “Dark berries, chocolate-covered cherries.”

Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma 2011 $31.95. “Deeply fruity, power and structure.”

Henry of Pelham Estate Pinot Noir 2009 $24.95. “Plush & sexy, satin-smooth texture.”

Excellent books to read or give! Inspector Singh Investigates A Most Peculiar Malaysian Murder by Shamini Flint. Singh is a Police Detective from Singapore and his exploits are funny, featuring great characters and fun locales.

One Summer America 1927 by Bill Bryson. A wonderful book from a fabulous Author. I cannot begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this. Amazing populist history. You won't want to put it down!

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine Pick November 23, 2013

Wines released for sale on Saturday, Nov. 23 in Ontario.

Alright wine campers, it is time to suspend your belief and sally forth into the land of dreams that would welcome you after a Lotto 649 win. This would involve millions of shekels wafting into our bank accounts and a complete collapse of common sense! BUY!! Buy!! BUY!! Drink, DRINK, DRINK!!!

The LCBO has outdone it's greedy self this time and slipped the bonds of reality, enticing you towards new realms of excess.

For example the cheap Single Malt available this time is $241.95 per bottle. A mere Bagatelle!

Sharpen up that Gold Mastercard and join the breakfast club @ the LCBO on the 23^rd to ensure that you snag some of the following.

There is a short section at the end for those whose income only runs to about a half million per year.

Best Single Malt Speyside at the 2008 World Whiskies Awards: The Glenrothes Vintage Speyside 1978. Bold and fruity! $649.95

Bargain basement Single Malt: Glenfiddich Gran Reserva 21 Years Old Rum Cask Finish $241.95.

Stocking Stuffer for a brandy lover: Comandon Single Barrel Grande Champagne XO Cognac $174.95.

Mimosas on Christmas Morning: Dom Perignon Brut Rose Champagne 2003. $299.95, or save $240.00 and go with 13^th Street Grand Cuvee Blanc De Noir 2007 Niagara $59.95.

Quinta Do Portal Vintage Port 2003 $58.95. “Dense, intense wine.”

Wonderful Whites:

Stratus 2010 Niagara $44.20. “A rich blend of Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Chardonnay.

Ambullneo Fang Blanc Chardonnay 2007 California $62.95. “Full-bodied, fresh, crunchy.”

Domain Rijckaert Puligny-Montrachet Les Champgains 1er Cru 2010 $69.95. An amazing rendition of Chardonnay! Wow!!

Ch. De Fontaine-Audon 2012 Sancerre Loire $29.95. Sizzling Sauvignon Blanc!

Graacher Domprobst 1 Star Riesling Auslese 2010 Mosel $36.95. Sinful!

Ravishing Reds:

Ornellaia 2010 Tuscany $189.95. One of my two most favourite wines in the world!

Antinori Solaia Tuscany 2010 $251.95. This one is pretty close to perfection!

Dunn Vineyards Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Napa $109.95. 2019 to 2036. Parker 96.

Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red 2009 Napa $159.95. Mostly Cab/Sauv.

Elderton Command Shiraz 2009 Barossa $89.95. Huge and elegant!

Mountadam The Red 2009 Australia. Cab/Sauv, Merlot, Cab/Franc $34.95. A veritable BARGAIN!!

Chateau De Beaucastel Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2011 $89.95. Wine usually doesn't get any better than this one!

Urbina Gran Reserva Especial 1994 Rioja $46.95. Aged for you!

Good Buy Whites:

Featherstone Black Sheep Riesling 2012 Niagara $16.95. Really Racy Acidity!

Hauller Muenchberg Riesling 2011 Alsace Grand Cru $21.95. A MUST BUY!!

Ruhlmann Gewurztraminer 2011 $19.95. Needs a spiced dish.

Solid Reds:

Kaiken ultra Malbec 2010 Argentina $19.95. Big, ripe and very rich.

Sol De Andes Reserva Especial Syrah 2008 Chile $16.95 . Drinking well now.

Oyster Bay Merlot 2012 N.Z. $18.95. Tasted in Scotland. Very good, rich wine!

Xavier Cotes Du Rhone 2010 $16.95. BEST BUY!!

Aldiano Riserva Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2009 $18.95. “Tangy lift on the finish!”

Di Majo Norante Contado Riserva Aglianico Del Molise 2010 $17.95. Powerful, mature!

Maritavora Tinto 2008 Portugal $16.95. Very well made, delicious!

Vega Sauco Adoremus Tinta De Toro 2008 $19.95. “ Impressively complex nose. “

Great Reads: Phantom by Jo Nesbo featuring the intrepid Harry Hole.

The Last Policeman by Ben Winters. A very well written Sci/Fi Mystery.

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine Picks November 5, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS NOVEMBER 5, 2013

Wines will be released for sale in Ontario on Saturday, November 9.

Good news wine fans! The Ontario Government must be ready to build a new subway line, eliminate all hospital waits and put a large chicken in every pot! Nothing else could explain the prices of the wines on offer this time. The price range here for most items starts at $30.00 and goes quickly skyward.

More bad news: There appears to be a sharp rise in global wine consumption combined with a decrease in worldwide production. Less wine is being produced in Europe particularly. I guess they have finally dried up the wine lake of the 70's and 80's.

You get one guess at what that will do to your wine purse.

I almost skipped this edition but there must be a lot of financiers out there who need to spend all that loot that they ripped us off for in 2008.

I will give you my pick of the top five I would buy when Sheila hit the lottery jackpot.

There are also a slim number of affordable values here.

Need a gift for that Single Malt lover that you love a whole bunch? Buy them two bottles ( one to drink and one to collect ) of The Macallan Fine Oak 21 Years Old Highland Single Malt, a steal at only $499.95! What the hell, it's Christmas, throw in the nickel to tip your Spirits Merchant in this lucrative festive season.

Cash in those bonds and buy:

Antinori Guado Al Tasso 2009 Tuscany $99.95. Wine Enthusiast Rating 98!

Renatto Ratti Marcenasco Barolo 2008 $52.95. This wine is always SPECTACULAR!!!

Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet/Shiraz 2010 $44.95. Simply WONDERFUL red wine!

D'Arenberg The Dead Arm Shiraz 2009 McLaren Vale $54.95. Amazing nose!!

Domaine Durieu Lucile Avril Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2010 $44.95. Must age at least 10 years.

Best White Wine available.

Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Calcaire Pinot Gris 2011 $27.95. One of my all-time favourite producers. Full-bodied, rich, with brilliant acidity. A WOW!!

Classy Whites.

Abbazia Moscato D'Asti 2012 $14.95. Low in alcohol, very high in bubbly flavour! Serve this with a citrus fruit dessert or a bowl of sugared strawberries.

Hinterbrook Sauvignon Blanc 2011 Niagara $16.95. “ Fresh, crisp & racy citrus zest. “

Rockway Small Lot Reserve White Assemblage 2012 Niagara $16.95. A most interesting blend!

Great Red Wine Bargain: MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir 2010 California $21.95. This is a classy bottle of wine that shows the fruit intensity and richness that are the hallmarks of fine Pinot noir.

Great Value Reds.

Casa Del Bosque Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Chile $19.95. “Superbly structured.”

Chilensis Lazuli 2010 Chile $17.95. This needs red meat!

Natura Carmenere 2012 Chile $14.95. BEST BUY!!!!

Ninquen Antu Chilean Mountain Vineyard Syrah Chile 2011 $17.95 “A very good wine!”

Dark Side of The Moon Shiraz 2011 Clare Valley $27.95. “Loaded with dark fruit depths.”

Henry Of Pelham Reserve Baco Noir 2011 $24.95. A perennially delightful wine!

Frey Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Mendocino $19.95. One of California's top Vintners!

Southern Cross Reserve Cab/Sauv 2011 S.A. $17.95. Great flavour & aromas!

Foncalieu St. Gervais Reserve Du Crouzau Cotes Du Rhone-Villages 2011 $16.95. Drink now.

La Luna E I Falo Barbera D'Asti Superiore 2010 $19.95. Piedmont. Tres Good!!

Castello D'Albola Chianti Classico Reserva 2008 $22.95. “Beautiful Floral Notes!

Great Books To read: Sheila reads almost as much as I do and she highly recommends the novels (10) of a Canadian Author, Linwood Barclay. Very well written thriller/mysteries.

The Mad Scientist's Guide To World Domination is a completely fun compendium of short stories, featuring some really whacked out megalomaniacs! Editor is John Joseph Adams.

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine Picks October 21, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS OCTOBER 21, 2013

Wines available to purchase in Ontario on Saturday, October 26.

Just a short missive this time. Nothing on the release really struck me as earth-shattering/need to own material.

My Sister brought a Sauternes to Thanksgiving dinner which went magically well with pecan and pumpkin pies. I must put a couple of these lush dessert wines in the cellar.

Chateau Fontaine 2010 AC Sauternes $16.95 ( 375 ml) is available this time. Lovely notes of flowers, honey, apricot and orange.

Single Malt lovers will snatch up Laphroaig 18 Year Old Islay @ $178.95. “Like a peat fire in a bottle with vanilla and honey.”

Two great bubblies arrive on the 26^th : Ackerman Grande Reserve Cremant De Loire $19.95 and Tenuta S. Anna Prosecco Superiore Di Valdobbiadene Veneto $19.95.

Best White Wine: Bollig-Lehnert Dhroner Hofberger Riesling Spatlese 2011 $21.95. Will last a long time! A big flavoured white wine.

Excellent Whites

Donatien Bahuaud Les Grands Mortiers Vouvray 2012 $15.95. Great sweet/acid balance!

Fielding Estate Riesling 2012 Niagara $18.95. Compare to the Spatlese above.

Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay 2011 Sonoma $28.95. For my money the BEST Chardonnay available in California, year after year.

Best Red Wine: Sassicaia 2010 Tuscany $184.95. Consistently one of the World's Top 10 wines every year and a stone cold bargain in comparison to the big Bordeaux and Burgundy names.

Excellent Reds

Tangley Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 Napa $25.95. Textbook Napa Cab!

Mountadam Patriarch High Eden Shiraz 2009 S. Australia $24.95. You will think you are in Eden, minus the snake, when you taste this.

Domaine Du Vieux Lazaret Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2010 $35.95. Giant sized wine!!

Domaine Montmartel Cotes Du Rhone 2011 $15.95. BEST BUY!!!!

Monser Feteasca Neagra 2009 Romania $12.95 Off the wall BARGAIN!!!

Quinta Do Portal Reserva 2009 Portugal $21.95. #17 in the Wine Enthusiast Top 100 of 2012.

Great Reads: A Distant Mirror by Barbara Tuchman. The Best work of history I have read in this lifetime. If you think the current era has problems check out the 13^th Century!

Secret Ingredients The New Yorker Book Of Food And Wine by David Remnick. The book is so much fun it is probably banned in Ontario and Boston. ( Sonny I have a copy if you would like to borrow it.)

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine Picks October 9, 2013

Wines will be released for sale on Oct. 12 in Ontario.

You find this writer playing in his wine cellar this weekend in an effort to expand a couple of areas and coincidentally shrink one.

The shrinkee is Italy, where I find myself top heavy with Chianti and other minor-league Tuscan wines that are ready to drink. Thankfully my children and friends will be here during the coming holiday season and we will drink them up briskly! The Barolos, Brunellos and Umbrian Sagrantinos still have lots of ageing potential.

The expanded sections are Australia and California, both of whom are sending a multitude of great buys currently.

I am also seriously in the market for whites from Alsace (as usual) and I simply have to buy up as many German Auslese as possible. We drank a Markus Molitor Auslese last week which was simply amazing!

We had a most enjoyable weekend last week, picking grapes at my favourite winery in Prince Edward County, Sandbanks. After a not too onerous couple of hours picking grapes with friends we enjoyed lunch, music and a glass of wine, followed by a fun meal at home in the evening. It's hard to beat a day filled with friends, good food, sunshine and wine.

OK, here are the latest temptations from the good old LCBO, everybody's favourite monopoly!

Best White Wine: Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2012 N.Z. $22.95. “Lemonade squeezed from stone, with a handful of grass thrown in... flinty marvel. Perfect for asparagus soups, pastas or salads.”

Top Flight Whites.

Georgian Hills Ida Red Frozen To The Core 2010 Ontario (375 ml.) $19.95. A little weird and off the wall, a sweet apple, complex, cinnamonny, cider like dessert wine.

Cotnari Grasa De Cotnari 2011 Romania $13.95. Even stranger! “Only 450 acres of grapes in the world. Voluptuous, full-flavoured, ripe and round. Grapes allowed to develop the famous noble rot...the hallmark of great dessert wines like Sauternes.”

Domaine Riefle Cote De Rouffach Pinot Gris 2009 Alsace $20.95. “Peach & Honey fill the mouth.”

Paul Priur Et Fils Sancerre 2011 $25.95. Compare to the Dogpoint above.

William Fevre Espino Chardonnay 2011 Chile $13.95. Very well-balanced!

Finca La Escondida Reserva Chardonnay 2012 Argentina. $14.95. Big flavours. Try this one Donna.

Charles Sparr Cuvee Renaissance Brut Rose Cremant D'Alsace $19.95. Great bubbly made from Pinot Noir. Sip this before and with dinner.

“ I spent 90% of my money on wine, women and song and just wasted the other 10%.” Ronnie Hawkins.

Red Wine That would qualify as Nectar: Ironstone Reserve Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Sierra Foothills $36.95 “Stunning Cabernet...long, layered finish. Drink until 2018.

Red Wine With a Robert Parker Score of 94: Domaine Tournon Shay's Vineyard Shiraz 2011 $35.95. Intense aromas and big, balanced fruit flavours!

Exceptional Vin Rouge.

Burmeister Reserva 2009 Portugal $21.95. Drink in 2 years.

Five winners from Spain.

Borsao tres Picos Garnacha 2011 $19.95

Finca Valdelroble 2009 $20.95.

Luis Canas Reserva 2005 $34.95. “Effortless and pure class. Drink now to 2022.

Monteabellon 5 Meses En Barrica 2011 $19.95. Big, Rich, Full.

Pinyolet Seleccion 2010 $25.95. “Plenty of kirsch, raspberry and black currant.”

Domaine Les Aphillantes Cuvee Des Galets Plan De Dieu Cotes Du Rhone- Villages 2010 $19.95. This is a MUST BUY!!!

Tessellae Carignan Old Vines Cotes Du Roussillon 2011 $18.95. “Beautiful, soft, round seductive.”

Flagstone Dark Horse Shiraz 2009 South Africa $17.95. BARGAIN!!

Schild Estate Shiraz 2010 Barossa $24.95. Rated #30 in Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2012.

Chapel Hill Parson's Nose Shiraz 2011 $19.95 McLaren Vale. Essence of blackberry!

Quieto 3 Malbec Argentina 2009 $14.95 BEST BUY!!

Chambers Rosewood Rutherglen Muscat $19.95 (375 ml). Very sweet and rich.

Osborne Pedro Ximenez 1827 Premium Sweet Sherry $17.95. This is dessert!

Great Reads: How It Ends by Chris Impey is a fascinating look at how we all finish up. Starting with extinct ancient species and continuing to the end of the universe. Really well written!

The Woman Who Died A Lot by Jasper Fforde. This series of books about a bookworld are among my favourite works of fiction. Read them in order!

Ghost Man by Roger Hobbs. Very enthralling crime thriller.

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine Picks September 24, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS SEPTEMBER 24, 2013

Wines released for sale in Ontario on Saturday, September 28.

We are home safe from our holiday in Iceland. What an amazing country! Volcanoes, glaciers, geothermal pools, wonderful friendly people. A great trip made even better by our fellow travellers on the bus!

The dining experience was a most pleasant surprise. All the guide books totally panned the local cuisine but they were way wrong. We had many excellent meals with lamb and fish heading the menus. A pastrami like hors d'oeuvre of horse foal was highly tasty and interesting. The wine selection leaned heavily towards Argentina, which was fine thank you.

The country is SUPER-EXPENSIVE so a prepaid tour with meals included is the way to go. Shopping is pretty much out of the question, without a platinum credit card.

All right the holiday is over and the LCBO needs to move some wine if the government are going to build that new gas plant three or four more times. I was a bit underwhelmed with the new selection until I hit the Australian section. There are some real Wows arriving from the far South!

Also some excellent bubbly from relatively obscure sources is on offer. Sparkling wine can take the guesswork out of what to serve with what, as it complements a wide range of foods.

This is a big release as the LCBO stocks up for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Superb Australian Reds.

#1 is surely Two Hands Lily's Garden Shiraz 2011 $59.95. This is a supercharged, heavy, fruity behemoth that demands red meat or a really rich stew.

D'Arenberg D'Arry's Original Shiraz Grenache2010 $19.95. “Explosive black raspberry and cherry compote flavours...nose of rose, white pepper and licorice.”

Brick Kiln Shiraz 2010 $24.95. Well balanced but still big wine.

Oscar's Estate Shiraz/Viognier 2010 Barossa Valley $16.95. White Viognier really boosts the aromas!

Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 $24.95. A rich wine with a long, grand finish.

Sister's Run Cow's Corner Grenache/Shiraz/Mataro 2011 $15.95. BEST BUY! “tons of peppered red berry flavour layers in the mouth.

Superior Bubbles.

Sumac Ridge Steller's Jay Brut 2008 Okanagan Valley B.C. $25.95. A fine wine from a winery that doesn't ship here very often, to our regret.

Joseph Cattin Cremant D'Alsace Brut $16.95. I love this wine! “Apple, pear, grapefruit.”

Aimery Grand Cuvee 1531 Cremant De Limoux Southwest France $19.95. Serve with lobster.

Best White Wine On Release: Cave Spring Chardonnay Musque 2011 $15.95. I admit to prejudice here because I have enjoyed this wine immensely through several vintages. Highly aromatic, bone-dry and palate cleansing. Reminds me of very fine Chablis.

Really Good!! Whites.

Paco & Lola Albarino Spain 2011 $17.95. Albarino is a grape to look for. Dry, aromatic, peachy.

Reichsgraf Von Kesselstatt Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett 2008 Mosel $20.95. “Racy and firmly stuctured, with a wonderful aftertaste.

Dreyer Family Lion's Lair 2012 S.A. $13.95. Juicy, fresh, dry, bottled sunshine!

Nikolaihof Hefeabzug Gruner Veltliner 2010 Austria $24.95. Since our Danube cruise I have been diligent in buying these deliciously dry wines. This is as good as it gets!

Gisselbrecht Frankstein Riesling 2009 Alsace Grand Cru $20.95. Drink with Thanksgiving Turkey.

Cave De Beblenheim Heimberger Gewurztraminer Alsace 2011 $19.95. Drink with spicy items.

Wither Hills Wairau Valley Sauvignon Blanc N.Z. $17.95. Lush lime & gooseberry.

Domaine Du Chardonnay Montmains Chablis 1er Cru 2011 $28.95. Designed for fish!

Inniskillin Reserve Pinot Gris 2012 Niagara $19.95. “Juicy, round, mouthfilling.”

Tawse Sketches of Niagara Riesling 2012 $17.95. Great balance!

Best Red On Release ( Outside the Australians listed above. ) Selection Laurence Feraud Chateuneuf-Du-Pape 2010 $47.95. This wine demands at least 10 years of ageing but the rolling, dynamic fruit flavours and nose are worth waiting for.

Striking Reds.

Herdade Das Servas Tinto 2009 Portugal $18.95 is one of the reds I will certainly buy this time. The other is the D'Arenberg listed above.

Cramele Halewood Prahova Valley Feteasca Neagra Special Reserve 2011 Romania. $12.95. I have no idea if this is bad mouthwash or fantastic dry wine but I do know that the old Iron Curtain wineries are back in private hands, and trying to produce quality instead of the vast quantity demanded by their former party bosses. At $12.95 take a shot, it could be wildly good!

Croft Late Bottled Vintage Port 2008 $18.95 is luscious! Open a bottle on Christmas eve, when it's cold outside and your family is warm around you.

Juana De Sol Reserva Malbec 2010 Argentina $15.95. “Spicy, ripe, nicely proportioned.”

Fog Head Reserve Pinot Noir 2011 California $19.95. Funky, fruity, spicy wine.

Pizzella La Posta Malbec Argentina 2011 $15.95 BEST BUY!!

Officially the oldest person who ever lived was Jeanne Louise Calment. Died at Arles in 1977, age 122. Took up fencing at age 85 and rode a bicycle until 100. At age 90 she sold her apartment to a lawyer with something called a reverse mortgage, where he agreed to pay her a fixed price until she died. As a result he paid her more than twice the value of the apartment.

She put olive oil on all her food, rubbed it into her skin, drank Port wine, and ate 2 pounds of chocolate a week. She also smoked until she was 117, stopping only when her sight was so bad she couldn't light the cigarette. Her immediate family was long-lived.

Great reads: Between Man and Beast by Monte Reel. An offbeat account of 19^th century African explorers, the evolution debate and a bunch of other neat info.

Orders From Berlin by Simon Tolkien ( he is the grandson of J.R. Tolkien ) Great mystery about a Nazi plot to assassinate Winston Churchill.

Angel's Flight by Michael Connelly. Another Harry Bosch mystery. I love this series.

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine picks August 13, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS AUGUST 13, 2013

Wines released for sale in Ontario on Saturday, August 17, 2013.

Well folks it looks like the Pinot Noir truck rolled into the LCBO this month. Like the last release a variety of extremely fine Pinots is again offered for your dining pleasure. These wines are extraordinarily food friendly and versatile, and will age well.

French whites and reds are also found in abundance here.

Add to the mix a smattering of quality from other areas and you should be able to top up the cellar nicely.

Pinots With Flair:

Quails' Gate 2011 Okanagan $26.95 “Classic Velvet texture.”

Clos Du Bois 2011 California $18.95. A richer, deeply fruity style.

Stonier 2011 Victoria Australia $26.95”Happy cherries tickle the senses.”

Haha 2011 N.Z. $21.95. “Haha is a Maori word that means savoury and luscious.”

Jules Taylor 2011 N.Z. $24.95. “Balanced, harmonious and pleasingly dry.”

“Drink wine, and you will sleep well. Sleep, and you will not sin. Avoid sin, and you will be saved. Ergo, drink wine and be saved.” Medieval German Proverb.

Just a few white gems this time.

Best White Wine: Jacquart Mosaique Brut Champagne $44.95. Sheila makes the best chicken dish in the world, bar none! ( Chicken stuffed with avocado, parmesan and mayo. ) This would be absolutely perfect with it.

Wicked Whites.

Totus Tuus Reserva Cava Spanish Bubbly $15.95. Full-bodied, delightful wine!

Andre Blank Et Ses Fils Rosenbourg Pinot Blanc 2011 $14.95. Peach, nectarine, minerals.

Cheval Quancard Reserve Blanc 2011 Bordeaux $14.95. BEST BUY!!

Simonnet-Febvre Chablis 2010 Burgundy $19.95. Great 2010 Vintage.

Domaine Chauveau La Charmette Pouilly Fume 2011 Loire $19.95. Classic!

Dr. Heidemanns Badstube Riesling Kabinett 2011 $19.95. In a perfect world you would buy a case of this and sample one bottle per year, noting the subtle and eventually intense flavours.

Schmitges Erdener Treppchen Riesling Spatlese 2011 $25.95. “Sweet grapefruit, orange.”

Eidosela Albarino 2011 Spain $13.95. “ Expressive aromas of green apple, quince and lemon curd.”

Best Red Wine: Domaine Grand Veneur Clos De Sixte Lirac 2010 Rhone $23.95. “Full-bodied, rich, textural wine with abundant blue and black fruits interwoven with garrigue and licorice.”

Scintillating Reds.

Domaine Des Houdieres Fleurie 2011 Cru Beaujolais $16.95. Silky and balanced!

Ch. De Pennautier Terroirs D'Altitude Cabardes 2009 Midi $16.95. Serve with antipasto.

Ch. La Fleur grands Landes 2010 Saint-Emilion $17.95. Prime rib will love this!

Domaine Marie-Blanche Cotes Du Rhone-Villages 2010 $16.95. Wonderful Vintage.

Burro Velho Aragones/Syrah 2010 Portugal $14.95. BEST BUY!!!

Tenuta Di Trecciano Chianti Colli Senesi 2011 $15.95. “A pretty, elegant red.”

Westend Cool Climate Series Tempranillo 2010 New South Wales Australia $17.95.

Score 92 by winecompanion.com.au

Bird In Hand Two In The Bush Merlot/Cabernet Sauv. 2011 S. Australia $19.95. A lovely blend!

Agostino Inicio Malbec 2011 Argentina $14.95. Very good vino at a fine price!

Dieter Meier Puro Corte 2010 Argentina $16.95. A tasty blend of Malbec/Cab. Sauv./Syrah.

Columbia Crest H3 Cabernet Sauvignon Washington 2010 $19.95. Classy!

Henry Of Pelham Family Tree Red 2010 Niagara $18.95. Medium-bodied, juicy, rich. Interesting combo of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc and Merlot.

As Pat Boone would say, See You In September folks!. A holiday from wine, bridge and everyday life approaches, and these missives will cease for a few weeks.

Most Excellent Books To Read:

Antarctica by Gabrielle Walker. Extremely interesting depiction of the Continent!

Bryant & May And The Invisible Code by Christopher Fowler. Two Old Detectives in London messing around with the occult and mystery. Latest in a series that I absolutely love!

The Year Without Summer 1816 by William K. Klingaman. Mount Tambora in the South Pacific blows it's top and the world gets cold and stormy. A remarkable history.

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine Picks July 30, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS JULY 30, 2013

Wines Released for sale in Ontario on Saturday, August 3, 2013.

We have not seen a lot of good Pinot Noir recently, but that is somewhat rectified here. Several fine examples from widely disparate areas are offered.

As well Australia, Italy, California and France all give you a few good shopping ops!

In the continuing quest for decent wines under $10 I tried an Italian red that sounded promising. The first sip sent me racing to the sink to download the swill to our sewer system. On second thought I realized how cruel this was for the rats, and I worried that the plumbing could not take it.

Moral of the story: loosen up and spend $11.00+. The quest continues however.

Superb Pinot Noirs.

Cloudline Pinot Noir 2009 Oregon $18.95. I am buying this! “Just a delight to drink.”

Q Grand Reserve Pinot Noir 2011 Chile $16.95. Earthy nose, balanced fruit.

Lawson's Dry Hills Pinot Noir 2010 N.Z. $24.95. “Vividly perfumed.”

Best White Wine: Darting Durkheimer Nonnengarten Gewurztraminer Kabinett 2012 $17.95

A hedonistic marvel. Serve with a vindaloo curry.

Superb Whites

Michel Delhommeau Cuvee Harmonie Sur Lie Muscadet Sevre-Et-Maine 2011 $13.95. Shellfish please

Domaine Des Lauriers Prestige Picpoul De Pinet 2011 $13.95. BEST BUY!!!

Chateau Moncontour Tete De Cuvee Brut Vouvray $16.95 Loire. Got a wedding this summer? Wonderful bubbly, wonderful price!

Calamus Unoaked Chardonnay 2011 $14.95. Great Winery! Peachy citrus notes.

Tablelands Sauvignon Blanc 2012 $17.95 N.Z. The acidity is the key!

#1 Red Wine: Raymond Reserve Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Napa $37.95. Exquisite!

Aussie Winners.

D'Arenberg The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 McLaren Vale $19.95. Tastes great now!

St. Hallett Blackwell Shiraz 2009 Barossa $34.95. VERY LARGE WINE!!

Zonte's Footstep Lake Doctor Shiraz 2011 Margaret River $21.95. “Velvety, persistent finish.”

Salena estate Ink Series Petit Verdot 2010 $18.95. “A lovely wine from beginning to end.”

Bellisimo Italian Reds

Clavesana Dolcetto Di Dogliani 2011 $15.95. If you like subtle, medium-bodied and fruity reds ( Henry ), you will love this. Smooth, silky tannins.

Barone Ricalsoli Rocca Guicciarda Chianti Classico 2009 $24.95. Age at least 3 years.

Beni Di Batasiolo Riserva Barolo 2005 $34.95. “ A thick, succulent quality.”

Ridiculously Great Rhones.

Le Plan Classic Cotes Du Rhone 2011 $15.95 Ripe, rich blackcherry/blackberry fruit!

Perrin Nature Cotes Du Rhone 2011 $16.95. Drink this with a glorious prime rib!

Vignerons De Caractere Seigneur De Fontimple Vacqueyras 2010 $19.95. Parker 90!

Xavier Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2010 $39.95. If I can get one it will mark the start of Ruby's (Grand-daughter) wine cellar.

Other Fine Wines.

Cameron Hughes Lot 257 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa 2009 $24.95. “Amazingly value-priced!

La Posta Estela Armando Vineyard Bonarda 2011 $14.95. If you like it really rich and smooth this one is for you!

Great Books to Read: The Black Bonspiel of Willie MacCrimmon by W.O. Mitchell. If you are into curling or just love a fine, funny tale you need to read this!

A Man Without Breath by Philip Kerr. The latest in the Bernie Gunther series. This one finds Bernie in Smolensk, 1943 investigating war crimes. This is a wonderful series of books.

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine Picks July 16, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS JULY 16, 2013

Wines go on sale in Ontario on Saturday, July 20.

Well wine fans there is a cornucopia, a glut, a veritable plethora of super wines available this time. I would wager that no one other than maybe Mike Duffy could afford to buy them all!

Those who love BIG/HUGE! Aussie Shiraz will be broke after they see these. One of them is reputedly so good that I hesitate to tell you about it until I get mine, but that would be very un-nice. The wine in question is Small Gully The Formula Robert's Shiraz 2008 $18.95. Don't get hurt in the door-crasher melee as fans sprint to buy this! ( Thanks to Kent the product consultant at Barrack St. LCBO for the tip.) If you want it, show up bright & early at your LCBO. It will be gone quick. Don't try to order it in advance. This just makes life difficult for your local consultant. His/her name is not Solomon!

Anyway, facing this glut of fine wine I will list the ones that I REALLY WANT in separate price points, bearing in mind that Sheila keeps a close watch on the Mastercard bill.

You may see me angsting a bit in the future over 2010 wines. Reason is simple: my Granddaughter Ruby approaches her third birthday so cellar construction will begin soon. I am thinking Ports, Napa Cabs, Bordeaux, Brunello and Chateauneuf-Du-Pape for a start.

To avoid terminal typing cramp I will just list the wines with minimal comment. They are listed in order of my desire to own them! I will segregate the reds by price-point.

Best White On Release: Billaud-Simon Vaillons Chablis 1er Cru 2009 $35.95. Take me back to Burgundy! Chardonnay haters should try this to see what they are missing!

Superb Whites.

Rolly Gassman Rotleibel De Rorschwihr Auxerrois 2007 Alsace $19.95.

Thomas Goss Chardonnay 2011 Australia $16.95. Great depth of flavour.

Elephant Hill Le Phant Blanc 2011 N.Z. $19.95. Viognier/ Pinot Gris/Gewurstraminer.

Framingham Sauvignon Blanc 2012 N.Z. $17.95.

Simonsig Chenin Blanc 2012 S.A. $12.95. This will not last long! BEST BUY!

Cave De Saumur Secrets De Chai Saumur Blanc 2011 Loire $13.95. Lovely aroma!

Best Red Wine: Domas Vitae Brunello Di Montalcino 2007 $45.95. Subtle but fabulous! Drink 2020+.

Thick, rich Aussie Shiraz

Small Gully The Formula Robert's Shiraz 2008 $18.95. The race is on!

Robert Oatley Signature Series Shiraz 2010 $18.95.

Leasingham Winemakers Selection Bin 61 Shiraz 2009 $25.95.

Sister's Run Epiphany Shiraz 2011 $16.95

Expensive Vino

Fantino Cascina Dardi-Bussia Barolo Riserva 2004 $39.95 Drink 2020 to 24.

Joseph Phelps Cab/Sauv. 2010 Napa $87.95 “This is a dazzling wine” ( sorry Ruby but it will be past it's peak before you are old enough. )

Ch. Balac 2009 Haut-Medoc $24.95 “...an alluring, dry finish.

Domaine De Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem 2010 $24.95. Robert Parker Score 95-97

Ch. Simian Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2010 $42.95. Needs 12 to 15 years.

Bolla Le Origini Amarone 2007 $39.95. Needs meat with spices. ( Note to Ruby: I am watching out for 2010 Amarones )

Baron De Ley Gran Reserva 2004 Rioja $29.95. Excellent Vintage in Rioja.

Very Good Reds at a Decent Price.

Chapoutier Belleruche Cotes Du Rhone 2011 $15.95. Finely balanced. Rich wine.

Quinta De Ventozelo Touriga Nacional Portugal 2009 $19.95. This is a WOW!

Cerro Anon Reserva 2006 Rioja $17.95.

Vizcarra Senda Del Oro Roble 2011 Ribera Del Douro $17.95.

Porca De Murca Reserva Tinto Portugal 2010 $17.95.

Casamatta Sangiovese Tuscany 2011 $14.95.

Farina Parziale Appassimento 2011 $15.95.

Pedroncelli Petite Sirah 2010 Sonoma County $18.95.

Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauv. 2009 Washington. I think this is the BEST VALUE FOR MONEY! On the release.

Fabre Montmayou Reserva Malbec 2011 Argentina $15.95.

Bisquertt Ecos De Rulo Carmenere 2009 Chile $17.95. “Elegant, complex, aromatic.”

Casa Del Bosque Reserva Pinot Noir 2011 Chile $16.95.

Ch. De La Grave Caraxtere 2009 $17.95

Great Books To Read: Outrage by Arnaldur Indridason, an Icelandic mystery.

The Great Mutiny India 1857 by Christopher Hibbert. Absolutely riveting history.

Thanks,

Justin.

Justin's Wine Picks July 2, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS JULY 2, 2013

Wines released for sale in Ontario on Saturday, July 6, 2013.

“Wine has been the foremost of luxuries to millenia of mankind.” Hugh Johnson.

BEST WHITE WINE: Bollig-Lehnert Dhroner Hofberger Riesling Auslese 2009 $21.95.

Enticing White Wines.

Tawse Sketches Of Niagara Riesling 2012 $17.95. Extraordinary Value!

Joseph Cattin Muscat 2011 Alsace $15.95. Paris Gold Medal Winner!

Domaine Michel Colbois Chitry Bourgogne 2010 $18.95. Tastes like fine Chablis.

Salviano Orvieto Classico Superiore 2012 Umbria. “Lovely aromas of daffodil, plum and pear.”

Best Red Wine: Xavier Cuvee Anonyme Chateaneuf-Du-Pape 2009 $56.95. Parker Score 96. “Copious notes of Garrigue, licorice, underbrush, blackberries, black currants and graphite.” Will last comfortably for 15 to 20 years.

“ Once you accept the universe as being something expanding into an infinite nothing which is something, wearing stripes with plaid comes easy.” Albert Einstein.

Fine Reds

Alente Premium Trincadeira/Aragonez 2009 Portugal $15.95. # 27 in Wine Enthusiasts Top 100 Best Buys of 2012. Drink over the next 3 years.

Templarios Colheita Seleccionada 2009 Portugal $15.95. Very well made, powerful vino!

Montepeloso A Quo 2010 $29.95 Tuscany. “Red plums, raspberries. A steal.”

Vignerons Du Vallon Cuvee Reservee Marcillac 2010 S.W. France $15.95. Great food wine!

We visited my favourite Prince Edward County winery, SANDBANKS, on Saturday and had a wonderful time. Wine samples with cheese were on hand, as well as several gourmet food trucks. We ate great pork sandwiches and tasted a Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay and their first ever Pinot Noir. We purchased all three! Here is a winemaker that is not into gouging their customers. Tasting prices are reasonable and if you buy something the fees are waived!

The Gewurztraminer was nicely floral with a dry, fruity palate. The Pinot was light but aromatic and delicious. The Chardonnay was very clean and refreshing and still had some oomph!

All three were priced under $20.00.

Check out their website for this event, and others throughout the year. It's a fun way to enjoy an afternoon in the fresh air!

Great books to read!

Inspector Singh Investigates: A Curious Indian Cadaver by Shamini Flint. A most fun detective story about a Sikh Detective from Singapore investigating a murder in Mumbai.

Embers of War by Fredrik Logevall. One of the finest war accounts I have ever seen! A riveting account of the Vietnam War, from 1912 to the present. The Viet Minh ( the Yankees invented Viet Cong) come out looking much the more civilized of the protagonists.

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine picks June 18, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS JUNE 18, 2013.

Wines released for sale in Ontario on Saturday, June 22, 2013.

What, in my humble opinion, is the best source of affordable and delicious red wines in the World today? It is a near run thing but I would have to say Southern France, especially the Rhone Valley and the Midi. Starting at the top with Chateauneuf-Du-Pape. The wines rank right up there with the finest from anywhere and you can buy the majority of them for under $50.00. Expensive yes, but try buying a top class Bordeaux or Burgundy for less than hundreds of dollars.

Below this are gorgeous wines such as Gigondas in the $25 range and the villages such as Cairranne and Rasteau which retail for under $20.00. Add to this advantageous weather patterns which have produced consistently excellent Vintages such as 2007, 2009, 2010 and 2011 and you have a recipe for success in your cellar.

A grand selection of these wines is offered for sale on June 22.

Here are the samples that I want!

Domaine De La Charbonniere Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2010 $39.95. Age 10 years.

Ch. La Nerthe C-D-P 2010 $43.95. “Unbridled power and freshness.” 10 years also.

Ch. Mont-Redon C-D-P 2009 $39.95. Very well-balanced. Drink around 2020.

Vieux Clocher Symphonie Des Galets C-D-P $34.95. Very big flavours. 2020+.

Ch. Signac Cuvee Terra Amata Cotes du Rhone-Villages 2009 $22.95. Parker score 90-92.

Croix Valong La Legende Cotes Du Rhone 2010 $15.95. BARGAIN!!!

Correnson Reserve Speciale Cotes Du Rhone 2011 $16.95. Designed for steak!

Le Gravillas Sablet Cotes du Rhone Villages 2011 $15.95. “Spicy & deeply fruity.”

La Ferme Du Mont Le Ponnant Cotes du Rhone-Villages 2011 $17.00. Parker 90.

Ortas L'Estellan Gigondas 2011 $19.95 This is a classy wine!

Bet you didn't know this!

Ho Chi Minh of Vietcong fame worked as a pastry chef in London for the famous chef Auguste Escoffier at the luxurious Carlton Hotel.

Best White Wine: Domaine Schlumberger Kessler Pinot Gris 2008 Alsace $25.95. “Like fine silk this is elegant and ethereal overall. Apricot, guava, honey and pineapple notes. “

Superb Whites.

Torres Floralis Moscatel Oro Spain $16.95. Sweet, scrumptious dessert wine!

Henry of Pelham Estate Riesling 2010 Niagara $15.95 BEST BUY!!

Uvaggio Vermentino 2011 California $17.95. “ Layers of lime and apple.”

Stoneleigh Latitude Sauvignon Blanc 2012 N.Z. $21.95. “This is unfettered Ambrosia.”

Mallory & Benjamin Talmard Macon-Uchizy 2011 $14.95. Bargain Burgundy!

Bougrier Touraine Sauvignon Blanc 2011 Loire $16.95. Superb Winery!

Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Bernkasteler Alte Badstube Am Docterberg Riesling Spatlese 2011 $24.95.

This is a gorgeous value at this price! Will last at least 10 years.

Air

In the little house filled with dogs and resilient plants

She left only a glass and a blank sheet of paper.

The stadium up the road like a siren called with silent applause

To climb up, climb beyond the seats and the grass

Where a team of young girls kicked a white ball.

Maybe she knew they were there, maybe she was calling back

A line a male poet committed to the page decades ago,

About time made simple by the loss of detail.

Maybe she then cast out every detail but the unencumbered air

To keep it simple. And then fluttered from us.

Daniel Halpern.

I don't know why I like this poem but I do.

Best Red Wine:Grant Burge Corryton Park Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 $32.95. “Intense blackberry fruit with silky tannins and a long finish. Drink until 2020.”

Exceptional Reds.

Calem Late Bottled Vintage Port 2006 $19.95. “ Wonderful peppery spice notes.”

Geyser Peak Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 California $19.95. Wow! Very well-made.

Vina Robles Red 4 2009 California $19.95. Superb blend!

Juan Benegas Malbec 2010 Argentina $14.95. BEST BUY!!

Peter Lehmann Layers Shiraz/Tempranillo/Mourvedre/Grenache 2010 $17.95. Big and smooth!

Wakefield Merlot 2012 Australia $17.95. “spicy black fruit flavours.”

Ch. Bizard Montagne De Raucoule 2010 AC Grignan-les Adhemar (Rhone) $20.95. .

Poderi Di Luigi Einaudi Dogliani 2011 $19.95 Piedmont. “A gorgeous wine...an exotic, wild air.”

Cascina Dardi Bussia Barolo 2006 $35.95. “Structured, powerful best laid down for a few tears.”

Alvaro Castro 2009 Portugal $16.95. Medium bodied with great fruit and tannins.

Quinta Do Roncao Reserva 2011 Portugal $14.95. “Palate is voluptuous and alluring.”

Baron De Magana 2009 Spain $17.95. Great, full raspberry/cherry palate and nose.

Great Reads: Nine Dragons by Michael Connelly. Another fabulous Harry Bosch thriller.

God's Spy by Juan Gomez-Jurado. Wonderful tale of a serial-killer/Priest at loose in the Vatican killing Cardinals. Pretty bloody but a fine story with some very interesting characters.

Holidays On Ice by David Sedaris. Short stories with a Christmas theme in a black comedy style.

First story recounts the tale of working as an elf in a department store. Dinah The Christmas Whore must be read!

Thanks,

Justin

Justin's Wine Picks June 4, 2013

JUSTIN'S WINE PICKS JUNE 4, 2013

Wines released for sale in Ontario on Saturday, June 8.

Just a quick overview of the wines available this time. There are a bunch of excellent choices but the retired life calls and I am torn in many different directions, which is good!

I will give you the two best plus my five top picks for red and white

If you want to know what keeps me so engaged take up duplicate bridge and we can talk about vino between hands. You can take excellent lessons at the Bridge Center in the Frontenac Mall.

613-507-6565.

A basic knowledge of how to play bridge is required.

Single Malt Whisky fans will need at least a case of The Macallan Sherry Oak 25 Years Old @ the knockdown price of only $999.95 Hey they are thinking of becoming independent and will need the cash. Haggis alone won't pay the bills or the piper.

Bowmore Darkest 15 Year Old Islay $91.95, is the BEST!! Single Malt that I have tasted and that includes all the big names.

Best White: Domaine Raoul Gautherin & Fils Chablis 1er Cru 2010 $28.95. #2 Would be Astrolabe Province Sauvignon Blanc N.Z. $21.95. Nobody does the grape better than the Kiwis.

5 Exceptional Whites.

Coyote's Run Red Paw Chardonnay 2011 $19.95 Niagara. Very well-balanced!

Fielding Gewurztraminer 2010 Niagara $15.95. “Lychee, honeysuckle, roses” WOW!!

Flat Rock Cellars Riesling 2012 Niagara $16.95. “Beautiful, just off-dry.”

Alta Vista Premium Torrontes 2012 Argentina $14.95. Intensely floral, Wonderful wine!

Alamos Chardonnay 2012 Argentina $13.95. One of my top wineries.

C.J. Pask Gimblett Road Viognier 2011 N.Z. $18.95. You will love this!

Louis Hauller Gewurztraminer 2011 $19.95. Alsace Absolutely Delicious! Drink now.

Ch. Moulin De Vignolle 2011 Bordeaux $15.95. “Impeccably structured, balanced.”

( You didn't really think I could limit myself to 5! )

Senior Truism: Old age and treachery will beat Youth and skill every time!

“A bottle of wine begs to be shared; I have never met a miserly wine lover.” Clifton Fadiman

Best Red: Ridge Monte Bello 2010 California $149.95. “A magnificent California Classic!” Expected to mature around 2020 to 2040. I should buy one for my Granddaughter's 30^th birthday.

Really good for a lot less money? Due Torri Amarone 2009 $38.95 or Poggiotondo Brunello Di Montalcino 2006 $34.95.

5 Exceptional Reds.

Ch. Argadens 2009 Bordeaux $17.95. Dense tannins and blackberry/cherry. Age 4 years.

Ch. De La Pierre Brouilly 2011 $17.95. “...acidity and silky tannins act in perfect accord.” Try this one Henry.

Les Vignes Bila-Haut Cotes Du Rousillon-Villages 2011 $14.95. BARGAIN!!!

Les Halos De Jupiter Cotes-Du-Rhone 2010 $17.95. “lusty black cherry, raspberry, cassis.”

Herencia Altes Garnatxa Negra 2011 Spain $15.95. DON”T MISS THIS ONE!

Quinta De Santa Eufemia Late Bottled Vintage Port 2005 $18.95. “Voluptuous mouthfeel.”

Great Books To Read. Vanished Kingdoms by Norman Davies. Fantastic vignettes of European History. The Dunbarton Rock story and others are very well written.

One of the funniest books I have ever encountered is The Life and Times of The Thunderbolt Kid by Bill Bryson.

Lastly if you are into Military History you will really enjoy Pacific Crucible by Ian W. Toll, describing the sea battle in the Pacific between Japan and the U.S.A.

Thanks,

Justin