July 5 Release

NOBODY DOES IT BETTER. In this release, we explore two great winemaking regions and their signature grape varieties. First up is Argentina and its magnificent Malbecs; this minor Bordeaux grape makes major wines in Mendoza that cannot be equalled anywhere else in the world. Then we head to Italy and delve into Tuscany’s classic Sangiovese-based wines. From fresh and food-friendly Chiantis to age-worthy Brunellos, these fabulous wines have legions of fans. Our VQA ON Tour feature visits one of Niagara’s most famous families at Pilliterri Estates Winery. All this plus our latest array of fine wines from around the world.

Arrive in Style
(July 5 Release)

with a conversation starter

Is this elegant blend the ultimate palate-pleaser? Robert Parker Jr., an avid admirer of the wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in one article mused: “The World’s Most Delicious Red Wines?” Spark a flavourful debate with fellow partygoers as you discover why this is a top critic’s perennial favourite.

CLOS DU CALVAIRE
CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU- PAPE 2006
AC – Rhône Valley, France
(Vign. Mayard)
728139 (XD) 750 mL $ 35.95

TASTING NOTE: The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Clos du Calvaire has a dark ruby color, more fruit saturation, the same aromatic and flavor profile, but with more intensely sweet kirsch, lavender, and roasted herbs as well as some under brush and soil nuances. It has excellent texture, medium to full body, and a long, lush finish. Score – 89-91. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007)

VINTAGES SINGLE BOTTLE BAG
923599 $ 1.95

argentinA malbec
(July 5 Release)

The Details:

No other country can duplicate the conditions that have made Malbec Argentina’s signature grape. In fact, outside of Argentina, Malbec is known for its aggressive, mouth-drying tannins which can overshadow its wonderful fruit flavours. Mendoza’s close proximity to the Equator, extreme altitudes and arid climate ensures that the tough-to-ripen grape matures slowly and evenly over an extra-long growing season. The results are intensely flavoured, full-bodied wines with soft and silky tannins that give Argentine Malbec, like our Benchmark, its unique and unforgettable texture.

Our Benchmark:

FINCA EL ORIGEN RESERVA MALBEC 2006
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
065664 (D) 750 mL $ 14.95

TASTING NOTE: Medium purple in colour, this wine features complex aromas of pipe smoke, blueberry turnover, black cherry, plum, new leather and cedar. It's dry, medium bodied and elegant with ripe black fruit flavours balanced by crisp acidity and refined tannins all leading to a medium-long, fruity finish. A fine match for grilled lamb chops with mint jelly. (VINTAGES panel, May 2008)