WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MAY 26 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Finca Sophenia Reserve Viognier 2011 Mendoza: more citric and appley 
than most viognier, 12% ABV, better with seafood and fish. +278267, 
$16.95, QPR: 89.
2. Chateau Vignol Blanc 2010 Entre-Deux-Mers: satisfyingly friendly 
food wine in zesty savvy mode, 12.5% ABV. +108522, $13.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Ironstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 California: good value in a 
California cabby, ready now, 13.5% ABV. +537597, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. La Posta Pizzella Family Vineyard Malbec 2009 Uco Mendoza: god 
Malbec intensity and MVC, twist top, 13.5% ABV. +166298, $15.95, QPR: 
89.
3. Trivento Coleccion Fincas No. 2 Syrah 2007 Mendoza: juicy lucy, sip 
or food, 14% ABV. Value. +269217, $16.95, QPR: 89.
4. Urraca Malbec 2008 Mendoza: good aging, 14.8% ABV blockbuster, 
plumy, a big wine. +214379, $19.5, QPR: 89.
5. Small Gully Formula Robert’s Shiraz 2006 South Australia: deep, dark 
and delicious, well-aged, 15.9% over-the-top, but not a hot finish. 
+142935, $19.95, PR: 90.
6. Les Hauts de Montfort Les Megalithes 2009 Minervois Unfiltered a 
hidden gem, old grenache vines, ark fruit, 14.5% ABV needs food. 
+279554, 13.95, QPR: 91.
7. Mas D’Auzieres Sympathie Pour Les Stones 2009 Coteaux du Languedoc: 
I could make a crack about “Sympathy for the Devil” by the Rolling 
Stones, since the Stones own a piece of South of France around the 
corner. But I won’t. It’s 14% ABV syrah, with mocha and dark fruit 
tones, long finish. +277046, $19.95, QPR: 90.
8. Umani Ronchi Montipagano Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2010: dark fruit, 
light tang on the finish, 13% ABV, organic. +134585, $13.95, QPR: 89.
9. Di Majo Norante Ramitello 2009 Biferno Rosso Molise: 13.5% ABV, a 
whopper of a wine that needs time. +973214, $15.95, QPR: 89.
10. Travaglini Nebbiolo 2010 Coste della Sesia Piedmont: juicy nebbiolo 
flavours, aged 10 months in oak, 13% ABV. Value for nebbiolo lovers. 
+30353, $17.95, QPR: 89.
11. Baglio di Pianetto Nero d’Avola 2009 IGT Sicilia: rich, ripe, over-
the-top dark fruit, 13.5% ABV. Sipper or food. +207423, $14.95, QPR: 
89.
12. Vicchiomaggio Agostino Petri Chianti Classico Riserva 2008: good 
value but needs more time. Fruit and finishing acid are there. 14% ABV. 
+993360, $19.5, QPR: 89.
13. Azul Portugal Reserva 2007 VR Alentejano: off-dry on the palate, 
North American appeal, 13.5% ABV. +276238, $15.95, QPR: 89.
14. Cunha Martins Reserva 2008 Dao: fatty + smokey = BBQ. 13% ABV. 
+276188, $14.95, QPR: 89.
15. Monte Vilar Reserva 2008 VR Alentejano: soft. 14% ABV, North 
American appeal like the Azul above. +276105, $15.95, QPR: 89.
16. Bod. Altanza Lealtanza Reserva 2005 Rioja: well-priced, MVC for a 
Rioja, 13.5% BV, but still needs another year or so. +276097, $19.95, 
QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Cave Spring CSV Riesling 2008 VQA Beamsville Bench, +566026, $29.95 
retail.
2. Closson Chase K.J.Watson Vineyard Chardonnay 2009 VQA Niagara River 
Unfiltered, +230912, $34.95.
3. Mount Eden Vineyards Chardonnay 2009 Edna Valley, +17988, $25.95.
4. Robert Mondavi To Kalon Estate Reserve Fume Blanc 2009 Napa, 
+147488, $44.95.
5. Domaine Pabiot Les Vieilles Terres Pouilly-Fume 2010, +65979, 
$21.95.
6. Folie a Deux Zinfandel 2008 Amador, +147231, $24.95.
7. Rubicon Estate Cask Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Rutherford Napa, +29553, 
$74.95.
8. Chateau Pipeau 2008 St-Emilion Grand Cru, +138131, $29.
9. Chateau Tire Pe La Cote 2008 Bordeaux, +137364, $25.
10. Domaine des Tilleuls Clos Village Gevrey-Chambertin 2009, +264994, 
$49.95.
11. Antinori Pian Delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino 2006, +651141, 
$59.95.
12. Castello di Ama Chianti Classico 2007, +39768, $33.95.
13. Ruffino Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Riserva 2006, +353201, $43.95.
14. Coto de Imaz Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +976811, $29.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MAY 12, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Angels Gate Mountainview Chardonnay 2010 VQA Beamsville Bench: rich 
ripe fruit flavours, good balance with wood tones and longer length for 
food. +116384, $18.95, QPR: 89.
2. Catena Alamos Torrontes 2011 Salta: fresh aromas and lively finish, 
more a food wine (first course) than a social wine. 13.5% ABV, twist 
top. +81539, $13.95, QPR: 89.
3. Wither Hills Wairau Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2011 Marlborough: typical 
Kiwi Savvy in MVC style but with a lighter finish. 13.5% ABV, twist 
top. +919514, $17.95, QPR: 89.
4. Helfrich Gewurztraminer 2010 Alsace: great aromatics, good on 
palate, slightly bitterish finish. 12.5% ABV, twist top. +169748, 
$18.95, QPR: 89.
5. Domaine Chenevieres Chablis 2010 La Chapelle Vaupeteigne: more 
fruity than minerally, should appeal to a wider range of consumers. 
Elegant, good body and finish. Classy labels too. +277913, $19.95, QPR: 
89.
6. Monmousseau Vouvray 2010: peachy, peachy, peachy, off dry, some 
lanolin. 12% ABV, twist top. +271940, $14.95, QPR: 89.
7. Sols & Sens Laudon Cotes du Rhones-Villages Blanc 2010: refreshing, 
the viognier dominates (hot and jammy), appetizer or social wine. 13.5% 
ABV. +272435, $14.95, QPR: 90.
8. Geil Bechtheimer Rosengarten Riesling Kabinett 2011 Prad.: sunshine 
in a bottle with finishing acid, 10% ABV. Social or first course wine. 
+994764, $14.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Graffigna Grand Reserve Malbec 2008 Pedernal Valley Argentina: 
excellent character, jammy, plumy, black fruit, MVC all the way. 14.5% 
ABV. +162149, $16.95, PR: 89.
2. Heartland Stickleback Red 2009 South Australia: good drinking blend 
of four varieties, twist top, 14.5% ABV.
3. San Fabiano Calcinaia Chianti Classico 2008: needs a bit of time, 
but the set is there. Good MVC, just under the Mendoza line. +23408, 
$19.95, QPR: 89.
4. Arduini Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2009: “Ripasso of 
the Month”. +267898, $18.95, QPR: 89.
5. Chapillon Cuvee Remy 2007 Priorat: deep and delicious flavours and 
tones of grenache, carignan, and cabernet sauvignon. 15.4% ABV leads to 
a hot finish. +271114, $18.95, QPR: 89.
6. Juan Gil White Label De Cepas Viejas Monastrell 2010 Jumilla: red 
fruit, delicious vanilla and coconut (US oak), affordable, 14.5% ABV. 
Buy it all!! +13656, $12.95, QPR: 92.
7. Muriel Reserva 2005 Rioja: juicy but a reserved finish of some 
depth. 13% ABV, great price. +276030, $15.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Casa Marin Laurel Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2009 San Antonio Valley 
Chile, +274050, $24.95 retail.
2. Domaine Herve Azo Beauroy Chablis 1er Cru 2010, +276451, $27.95 
retail.
3. Roger & Didier Raimbault Sancerre 2010, +82255, $22.95.
4. Clos de Gat Chardonnay 2009 Judean Hills Israel, +280321, $47.95.
5. Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel 2009 Sonoma County, +673798, $23.95.
6. Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Sonoma County, +226944, 
$21.95.
7. Cuvelier Los Andes Grand Vin 2006 Mendoza, +149831, $39.95.
8. Plaisir de Siaurac 2009 Lalande de Pomerol, +245886, $21.95.
9. Campo di Sasso Insoglio del Cinghiale 2010 Toscana, +277012, $29.95.
10. Heredad de Baroja Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +276113, $21.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR APRIL 28, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1.Flat Rock Cellars Riesling 2010 VQA Twenty Mile Bench Niagara: 
sipper, off-dry, but enough finishing acid for first course foods. 
10.5% ABV. +43281, $16.95, QPR: 89.
2.Malivoire Riesling 2010 VQA Niagara: very good, true to MVC, dry 
mode, traditional. +277483, $15.95, QPR: 90.
3.Calina Chardonnay 2010 Aconcagua Valley Chile: buttery and rich, 
modest finish, better as sipper. 13.5% ABV. +640912, $14.95, QPR: 89.
4.Lawson’s Dry Hills Gewurztraminer 2009 Marlborough: gorgeous 
interpretation of New World Gewurz, great MVC with finishing 
bitterness. +60129, $17.95, QPR: 91.
5.Willy Gisselbrecht Tradition Riesling 2010 Alsace: another great 
Riesling food wine, orchard drops and minerals, 12% ABV. +169011, 
$15.95, QPR: 90.
6.Chateau de Navarro Blanc 2010 Graves: ab fab price, zest but fruity 
enough for sipping. Typical Graves minerality and earth. +264739, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
7.Henri Bourgeois Petit Bourgeois Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Vins de Pays du 
Jardin de la France: basic entry level wine from a master, very zesty, 
good price, 12.5% ABV.
8.Vinea Garganega 2010 IGT Veronese: half of this is briefly wood aged, 
13% ABV. Quality character, some slight creaminess.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1.Folie a Deux Menage a Trois Red 2010 California: good wine for a wine 
tasting ringer. BBQ all the way, something for everybody. 13.5% ABV. 
+665158, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2.Los Haroldos Reserva de Familia Malbec 2008 Mendoza: plummy soft 
fruit, some mocha tones, BBQ, North American appeal, finishes with 
toasted oak. +269068, $14.95, QPR: 89.
3.Niquen Antu Cabernet Sauvignon/Carmenere 2010 Colchagua Valley Chile: 
another full-flavoured exception BBQ wine, 14% ABV. +59329, $16.95, 
QPR: 89.
4.Escapade Southern Cross Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 WO Bottelary-
Stellenbosch: full body, black fruit, long finish, BBQ, maturing nicely 
now (5 years old). +26721, $17.95, QPR: 92.
5.Domaine de Rochebin Clos St. Germain Vieilles Vignes Bourgogne 2009: 
overripe red fruit, good for North American market, good depth, 12.5% 
ABV. +264549, $17.5, QPR: 89.
6.Chateau des Aladeres Corbieres 2008: black fruit, depth, some caramel 
from toasty wood, BBQ, 3.5 years old already, 14.5% ABV. +276063, 
$16.95, QPR: 90.
7.Canonica a Ceretto Chianti Classico Riserva 2007: wood aging shows 
vale. +275867, $17, QPR: 89.
8.Stefano Accordini Acinatico Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 
2009: “Ripasso of the Month”, +85159, $19.95, PR: 89.
9.Bodegas Olarra Anares Reserva 2005 Rioja: exacting quality of the 
basics (Tempranillo, US oak, traditional style), yet 13.5% ABV and 
under $20. There’s value here. +244723, $17.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1.Le Clos Jordanne Le Clos Jordanne Vineyard Chardonnay 2009 Twenty 
Mile bench VQA Niagara, +33910, $40 retail.
2.Cuvaison Chardonnay 2009 Carneros Napa Valley, +988261, $29.95.
3.Two Rivers of Marlborough Convergence Sauvignon Blanc 2011, +277707, 
$29.95.
3.Domaine Bachey-Legros Vieilles Vignes Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot 
1er Cru 2009, +268508, $53.95.
4.Summers Andriana’s Cuvee 2007 Knights Valley Napa, +275719, $26.95.
5.Chateau des Moines 2009 Lalande de Pomerol, +206789 $21.95.
6.Marziano Abbona Terlo Ravera Barolo 2006, +67918, $42.95.
7.Brancaia Tre 2009 IGT Toscana, +164715, $22.95.
8.Tommasi Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2008, +356220, $49.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR APRIL 14 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Inniskillin Winemaker’s Series Two Vineyards Riesling 2010 VQA 
Niagara: excellent Alsatian-styled typicity at a modest 11.5% ABV. 
+105387, $17.95, QPR: 89.
2. Crios Torrontes 2011 Argentina: brightly aromatic like poplar 
blended wines from all over, value lies in its price. +1834, $12.95, 
QPR: 89.
3. Michel Picard Chardonnay Bourgogne 2009: classy packaging at this 
price level, typicity is stressed with good MVC. +264440, $17.95, QPR: 
89.
4. Michel del Hommeau Cuvee Harmonie Muscadet de Sevre et Maine 2010: 
sip or food, crowd pleaser, not as acidic as other muscadets. 12% ABV. 
Gold medalist. +164624, 12.95, QPR: 89.
5. Saget La Perriere Marie de Beauregard Vouvray 2009: off-dry, ripe 
mouthfeel, pear and other orchard fruit. +276691, $17.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Mastronardi Merlot/Cabernet 2008 VQA Lake Erie North Shore: 
delicious intensity, plummy with depth. Berries, well-made, ready now. 
+273730, $19.95, QP: 89.
2. Henry’s Drive Pillar Box Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Padthaway: 
juicy, long length, mint and some herbs. 199745, $19.95, QPR: 89.
3. Chateau Beausejour 2009 Fronsac: excellent all-round MVC Bordeaux, 
tasted some four hours after opening. Do the same. +26467, $14.95, QPR: 
89.
4. La Corte Old Vines Primitivo di Manduria 2010 Puglia: even the 
primitivo wine makers are getting into the “old vines” labeling, as do 
many of the zinfandel winemakers in California. No indication of how 
old these vines are, so proceed at your own risk (the phrase is not 
regulated anywhere). Good value for mocha-inflected black berry fruit 
materials at 14% ABV. +269019, $15.95, QPR: 89.
5. Torre Quarto Bottaccia Uva di Troia 2008 IGT Puglia: delicious 
Italianate wine, nicely aged. 13.5$ ABV. +161737, $15.95, QPR: 89.
6. L’Antico di Burchino Vigna Casanova Chianti 2010: Demeter approved 
biodynamic wine, ridiculously underpriced. 12.5% ABV. +160457, $13.95, 
QPR: 90.
7. Luigi Righetti Campolieti Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 
2009: “LCBO Ripassso of the Month” for April. +695890, $15.95, QPR: 89.
8. Astrolabium Reserva Vinho Tinto 2008 Dao: good deep blend, 13% ABV, 
some mushrooms and underbrush. +276121, 15.95, PR: 89.
9. Coto de Imaz Reserva 2005 Rioja: coconut tones, definitely US oak, 
vanilla and some dried fruit. 13.% ABV. Nicely aged. +23762, $19.95, 
QPR: 90.
10. 


VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Featherstone Canadian Oak Chardonnay 2010 VQA Niagara, +149302, 
$21.95 retail.
2. Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2011 Marlborough, +677450, $20.95
3. Hoopenburg Integrer Chardonnay 2007 WO Stellenbosch, +174672, $21.95
4. Domaine Chauveau La Charmette Pouilly Fume 2010, +274357, $21.95
5. Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Stags Leap District Napa, 
+731810, $57.95.
6. Cyrus Cabernet Bled 2007 Alexander Valley Sonoma County, +269233, 
59.95.
7. Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Alexander Valley Sonoma 
County, +50427, $27.95.
8. Luis Segundo Correas Vale La Acequias Rosedal Malbec 2006 Mendoza, 
+261750, $29.95.
9. Brokenwood Shiraz 2009 McLaren Vale/Beechworth, +265975, $29.95.
10. Angelo Negro Cascinotta Barbaresco 2007, +268953, $32.95.
11. Ruffino Lodola Nuova Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2008, +332411, 
$23.95.
12. Bod. Franco-Espanolas Rioja Bordon Gran Reserva 2004, +114454, 
$22.95.

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MARCH 31, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

THIS IS THE BLUE MOON RELEASE !!

Recommended for the Blue Moon (drink it tonight) is: Chateau de 
Trinquevedel Tavel Rose 2011, delicious flavours and FRESH like you 
wouldn’t believe (only 7 months old). Perfect colour, 13.5% ABV. 
+729947, $17.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cave Spring Estate Bottled Gewurztraminer 2010 VQA Beamsville Bench: 
good MVC for the grape, but also with a perfumed finish. +302059, 
$17.95, QPR: 89.
2. First Press Chardonnay 2010 Napa: standard but well developed 
California Napa Chardonnay, 14.5% ABV. +199810, $19.95, QPR: 89.
3. Zuccardi Serie A Chardonnay/Viognier 2010 Mendoza: a sipper, off-dry 
fruity chardonnay, apples, peaches and lemons dominate. +262097, 
$14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Auntsfield Long Cow Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough: delicious, 
with plenty of MVC zest skewed to the green green grass of home. 
+663286, $19.95, QPR: 89.
5. Chateau Roquetaillade La Grange Blanc 2010 Graves: youthful and 
useful, sip or food, good body, fab price. +240374, $14.95, QPR: 89
6. Velenosi Villa Angela Pecorino 2010 Offida Marche: good orchard 
fruit in tone, slight nuttiness, long finish, body, 13% ABV, much 
better than pinot grigio at this price level. +173252, 13.95, PR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cosentino Cigarzin Zinfandel 2008 California: time for a stogy? This 
is thick, juicy and ready, with good aging. 15.4% ABV, chocolate and 
mocha overlays. +269340, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Rodney Strong Merlot 2008 Sonoma County: minty bacon-y, plumy, not 
your typical merlot. +497933, $19.95, QPR: 89.
3. Tyrrell’s Rufus Stone Shiraz 2009 Victoria: deep, ready now, much 
like an Hermitage. +91488, $19.95, QP: 90.
4. Flagstone Music Room Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 WO Western Cape: heavy-
heavy rap music, twist top, 15% ABV heat. Black fruit and eucalyptus. 
+205245, $17.95, QPR: 89.
5. Chateau La Fleur Terrien 2009 Lussac Saint-Emilion: easy drinking 
merlot-based Bordeaux, affordable. +199059, $14.95, QPR: 89.
6. Gerard Bertrand Minervois Syrah/Grenache 2009: fresh, syrah 
component dominates, black fruit throughout, finishes with some acid 
for food. Gold Medalist. 14% ABV. +95284, $15.95, QPR: 89.
7. Taurino Riserva Salice Salentino 2008 Puglia: nicely aged, with some 
earthiness and Italianate complexity, 14% ABV. +177527, $14.95, QPR: 
89.
8. Albino Armani Egle Ripassso Valpolicella Superiore 2008: the Blue 
Moon Armani-suited Ripasso of the Month. +247916, 5.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Karia Chardonnay 2009 Napa, +54585, $37.95 
retail.
2. Amayna Chardonnay 2008 Leyda Chile, +76265, $25.95.
3. Yalumba Viognier 2010 Eden Valley, +954644, $24.95
4. Corte Riva Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Napa/Sonoma, +89318, $39.95.
5. Sodaro Felicity Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Napa, +272641, $43.95.
6. The Paring Red 2007 California, +218909, $33.95.
7. Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian ells Merlot 2008 Columbia Valley, 
+408864, $25.95.
8. Chateau Larrivet Haut Brion 200 Pessac Leognan, +264283, $48.95.
9. Guy Farge Terre de Granit St Joseph 2009, +270215, 26.95.
10. Terre Nere Brunello di Montalcino 2006, +208462, $35.95. 

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MARCH 17, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Henry of Pelham Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2010 VQA Short Hills 
Bench: rich and ripe, wood integration produces creaminess in finish, a 
great Ontario chardonnay, 13.5% ABV. +268343, $19.95, QPR: 91.
2. Simi Chardonnay 2009 Sonoma County: deep concentrated flavours of 
butterscotch and toast, a restaurant wine in the US. 13.5% ABV. 
+673806, $19.95, QPR: 90.
3. Las Perdices Torrontes 2010 Lujan de Cuyo Mendoza: classic aromatic 
and off-dry flavours, MVC all the way, affordable. +267823, $12.95, QP: 
89.
4 Lawson’s Dry Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough: typical kiwi 
savvy, but with a slightly different tang of fruit on the finish. 
+214460, $17.95, QPR: 89.
5. Oak Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 WO Elgin South Africa: no oak here, 
but textbook style kiwi-like savvy, affordable, twist top, 13% ABV. 
+263947, $15.95, QPR: 89.
6. Domaine Christophe Camu Chablis 2009: orchard frit, long finish, 
best unoaked chardonnays are usually from Chablis, 12% ABV. Affordable. 
+268532, $18.95.
7. Leira Albarino 2010 DO Rias Baixas: good price for such an aromatic 
wine from the albarino variety. +115816, $16.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Villa Mt. Eden Antique Vines Grande Reserve Zinfandel 2007: with no 
standards for the words “Old Vines”, Villa Mt. Eden has moved on to 
“Antique Vines”, with pre-Columbian plantings. Lots of mocha and smoke, 
good development. 14.5% ABV. +256719, $19.95, QPR: 89.
2. Manos Negras Malbec 2007 Uco Valley Mendoza: fruit driven style, 
plenty of cherries, longer length. +271205, $14.5, QPR: 89.
3. Chateau Le Peyrat 200 Cotes de Bordeaux Castillon: very pleasing, 
soft merlot tones, spices, longer engaging finish. 14.5% ABV. +171090, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
4. Maz d’Auzieres Les Eclats 2009 Coteaux du Languedoc: well-worth 
tasting with a complex finish, about 70% syrah, 13.5% ABV. +271742, 
$16.95, QPR: 89. 
5. Valle Reale Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2007: good character, palate is 
mouth filling, long Italianate finish. 13.5% ABV. +216408, $17.95, QPR: 
89.
6. Piccini Chianti Classico Riserva 2007: a hidden treasure of dried 
fruit and figs. +134791, $18.95, QPR: 90.
7. Campolargo Vinha do Putto 2009 Barraida: North American appeal, 
juicy, off-dry but with a lingering finish. +267971, $13.95, QPR: 89.
8. Quinta Nova Pomares 2009 Douro: juicy and surprisingly ready now, 
good tannins for food. +214007, $16.95, QPR: 89.
9. Bodega del Abad Dom Bueno Crianza 2001 Bierzo: aging very nicely, 
thank you, well-respected wine at 14% ABV, and a fab price. +244699, 
$14.95, QPR: 89. 
10. Bod. Olarra Cerro Anon Reserva 2005 Rioja: outstanding wine at an 
outstanding price. 14% ABV. +114306, $18.95, QPR: 91.
11. Senorio del Aguila Gran Reserva 2001 Carinena: another 2001 wine 
for your consideration, delicious complexity, still needs time to open 
up and flower. Some oak resolved vanilla. 13.5% ABV. +269530, $19.95, 
QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Flat Rock The Rusty Shed Chardonnay 2010 VQA Twenty Mile Bench, 
+1552, $24.95 retail.
2. Rodney Strong Chardonnay 2009 Sonoma County, +226936, $20.95.
3. Domaine Chanson Savigny-Les-Beaune Hauts Marconnets 1er Cru 2009, 
+265033, $32.95.
4. Domaine Rodet Chateau de Mercey Mercurey 2009, +265058, $22.95.
5. Hidden Bench Estate Pinot Noir 2009 VQA Beamsville Bench, +274753, 
$38.20.
6. Geyser Peak Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Alexander Valley Sonoma County, 
+343467, $21.95. 
7. Treana Red 2008 Paso Robles, +11221, $39.95.
8. Yalumba Shiraz/Viognier 2008 Eden Valley South Australia, +524926, 
$21.95.
9. Yalumba The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Coonawarra, +473645, 
$53.95.
10. Chateau Tour Baladoz 2006 St. Emilion Grand Cru, +244087, $28.95.
11, Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva 2007, +512384, $29.95.
12. Mocali Brunello di Montalcino 2006, +64956, $43.95.
13. Baron d Ley Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +642496, $29.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MARCH 3, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Stoney Ridge Warren Classic Chardonnay 2009 VQA Niagara: generous 
spicy tones, dried fruit, balanced tropicality. 13% ABV. +224113, 
$16.95, QPR: 89.
2. Arboleda Chardonnay 2010 Aconcagua Costa: Midweight Euro style, 
balanced, MVC character, twist top, 13.5% ABV. +606772, $15.95, QPR: 
89.
3. Yalumba The Y Series Viognier 2011 South Australia: delicious floral 
and apricots, aperitif or first course wine, twist top, 13.5% ABV. 
+624502, $15.95, QPR: 89.
4. Clifford Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough: a tasty savvy with NZ 
MVC. +734095, $17.95, QPR: 89.
5. Chateau Peron Blanc 2009 Graves: excellent price and value for a 
white Graves, less minerally extracted than expected, needs a fish 
course, 12% ABV. +26126, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6. Chereau-Carre La Griffe Bernard Chereau Muscadet Sevre et Maine 2010 
Sur Lie: bright, orchard fruit, minerals, long length for food. Needs 
bivalves, +948182, $14.95, QPR: 89.
7. Sartori di Verona Marani Bianco 2009 IGT Veneto: nicely 
concentrated, with partial BF and all lees aging. 13.5% ABV. +265405, 
$16.95, PR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Gnarly Head Old Vine Zin Zinfandel 2010 Lodi: juicy and delectable, 
good ol’ brambleberry character, 14.5% ABV. Old vines’ power. +678698, 
$16.95, QPR: 90.
2. The Watcher Shiraz 2008 Barossa: dense and chunky, must decant 
first. 14.5% ABV. +219196, $19.95, QPR: 89.
3. Chateau de Parenchere 2009 Bordeaux Superiore: North American appeal 
in softness and fruit, 14% ABV. For what it is, it needed a twist top, 
not a cork. +268698, $14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Domaine La Montagnette Signargues Cotes du Rhone-Villages 2009: good 
syrah component, 14.5% ABV. Gold Medalist, ready soon. +235002, $13.95, 
QPR: 89.
5. Chateau La Brie Prestige 2009 Bergerac: another good value wine, 
using the same varieties as its neighbour north of it (Bordeaux), 
slightly higher acid, 13.5% ABV. Go all the way and have it with a 
brie! Gold Medalist. +61994, $13.5, QPR: 90.
6. Casa Emma Chianti Classico 2009: if Jane Austen was in Tuscany with 
other Brits…MVC, ready now, 14% ABV, affordable. +56952, $18.95, QPR: 
89.
7. Storia Antica Ripasso Valpolicella 2009: Vintages’ “ripasso of the 
month”. +273672, $15, QPR: 89.
8. Ciconia Vinho Tinto 2010 VR Alentejano: needs some time to open up, 
but all the juicy components are there. +266742, $15.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Hartford Court Four Hearts Vineyards Chardonnay 2009 Russian River 
Valley, +95919, $47.95 retail. 
2. Seresin Chardonnay 2008 Marlborough, +19190, $24.95.
3. La Chablisienne Montmains Chablis 1er Cru 2009, +265090, $24.95.
4. Paul Garaudet Vieille Vignes Meursault 2009, +26563, $47.95.
5. Pascal Jolivet Sancerre 2010, +264945, $24.95.
6. Hawkes Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Alexander Valley, +146878, $39.95.
7. Paraduxx 2008 Napa, +919662, $54.95.
8. Chateau La Fleur d’Arthus 2008 St. Emilion, +251702, $37.95.
9. Domaine Poulleau Pere & Fils Oak Aged Volnay 2009, +265025, $39.95.
10. Angelini San Leonino Chianti Classico Riserva 2007, +232413, 
$25.95.

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR FEBRUARY 18, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Creekside Laura’s White 2009 VQA Niagara: InterVin Silver medal, the 
blend has a little smoke in it, adds complexity. +121764, $18.95, QPR: 
89.
2. Tawse Sketches of Niagara Chardonnay 2009 VQA: well-developed 
Ontario wine, better than a second label. 13% ABV, twist top. +89037, 
$19.95, QPR: 89.
3. Lander-Jenkins Spirit Hawk Chardonnay 2009 California: very good 
balance of sweeter side of oak (vanilla, cloves) plus the muscat 
enhancer. Sip before a meal. 13.5% ABV. +162651, $18.95, QPR: 90.
4. Mount Riley Sauvignon Blanc 2011 Marlborough South Island: really a 
grassy and herby savvy, great for food. Fresh. 13% ABV. +981670, 
$16.95, QPR: 90.
5. Morgenhof Sauvignon Blanc 2010 WO Simonsberg-Stellenbosch: just a 
step below the Mount Riley, not as grassy, more full bodied. 13.5% ABV. 
+18507, $16.95, QPR: 89.
6. Domaine Francois Schwach Muscat 2008 Alsace: dry finish, higher 
acid, 12.5% ABV. +261644, $15.95, QPR: 89.
7. Maison Francois Martenot Cuvee Prestige Chardonnay Bourgogne 2009: 
MVC but medium body, a bit of everything (vague memories of burgundy, 
etc.). 12.5% ABV. +159095, $15.95, QPR: 89.
8. Valminor Albarino 2010 Rias Baixas: delicious, aromatic orchard 
fruit and longer length, twist top, 12.5% ABV. +266924, $15.95, QPR: 
89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. F. Lurton Hacienda Araucano Reserva Syrah 2009 Lolol Valley: very 
good syrah tones, pure, twist top, 14% ABV. +269209, $14.95, QPR: 89.
2. Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Maipo: 
lots of black fruit showing, aged in new French oak for over 14 months, 
14.5% ABV. Hard to believe that it is selling here under $20. +275594, 
$19.95, QPR: 92.
3. Saronsberg Art Space Shiraz/Mourvedre 2009 WO Coastal Region South 
Africa: off-dry mouth-feel, 14.5% ABV. Good MVC. +263590, $14.95, QPR: 
89.
4. Chateau de Montmal Fitou 2009: red fruit driven, spices, long 
length, some anise, 13.5% ABV. +265447, $17.95, QPR: 89.
5. Chateau Saint-Roch Chimeres 2009 Cotes du Roussillon-Villages: dark 
fruit, lovely texture on mid-palate, long lingering finish. 14.5% ABV, 
Gold Medal. +119354, 18.95, PR: 90.
6. Poderi Chuerra Jerzu Riserva Cannonau di Sardegna 2007: nicely aged, 
affordable, good depth, black fruit, thick flavours, mouth coating, 
food wine. 13.5% ABV. +270272, $15.95, QPR: 90.
7. Azul Portugal 2008 Ribatejo: dark fruit, North American appeal, 14% 
ABV. +266890, $13.95, QPR: 89.
8. Terra d’Alter Reserva 2008 VR Alentejano: good oakiness, very 
continental but with smoke and coconut, 14.5% ABV. +266916, $14.95, 
QPR: 89.
9. Beronia Reserva 2006 Rioja: woody, well-aged complexity, delicious 
with food, 14% ABV. +50203, $19.95, QPR: 90. 

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. 13th Street Old Vines Riesling 2010 VQA Creek Shores, +272617, $23.95 
retail.
2. La Crema Chardonnay 2009 Sonoma Coast, +962886, $28.95.
3. Bachelder Oregon Chardonnay 2009 Willamette Valley, +273334, $36.95.
4. Signorello Vieilles Vignes Chardonnay 2008 Napa Valley BF, +742692, 
$51.95.
5. 7 Deadly Zins Old Vine Zinfandel 2009 Lodi, +59311, $24.95.
6. Clos du Val Zinfandel 2009 Napa, +590216, $23.95.
7. Champy Beaune Vieilles-Vignes 2008, +726406, $28.95. 
8. Cuvee du Vatican Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2009, +719120, $37.95.
9. Rocca delle Macie Tenuta Sant’Alfonso Chianti Classico 2007, 
+942094, $21.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR FEBRUARY 4, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at 
http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My Internet compendium
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net" is a guide to thousands of news 
items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at 
www.deantudor.com since 1994. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal 
Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices 
are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does 
NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product 
consultants. Corked wines are not normally available for a re-tasting.

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Gran Lurton Corte Friulano 2010 Uco Valley Mendoza: wonderful 
aromatic complexity, partial BF for Sauvignon Vert, Pinot Gris, 
Chardonnay and Torrontes varieties. +66829, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Vieil Armand Medaille Gewurztraminer 2009 Alsace: 13% ABV, dynamite 
MVC, whirling world of lychee, peach, citrus, and some bittering. 
+260158, $16.95, QPR: 91.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Albino Armani Egle Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2008: “Ripasso of 
the month”. +247916, $15.95, QPR: 89.
2. Maculan Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 IGT Veneto: a lighter Bordeaux-like 
style, good value at this price. +987701, $14.95, QPR: 90.
3. Maetierra Dominum Quatro Pagos Reserva 2005 Rioja: delicious, albeit 
sweet tones, not drying out, 14% ABV, “Reserva” not noted on front 
label. +246660, $19.95, QPR: 89
4. Columbia Crest Grand states Merlot 2007 Columbia Valley Washington 
State: smoke and toast dominate, fruit after mid-palate. Yummy. 13.5% 
ABV. +263418, $15.95, QPR: 91.
5. Crios de Susana Balbo Malbec 2010 Mendoza: dense, 13.5% BV, but good 
finishing acid for food pairing. +162529, $13.5, QPR: 89.
6. La Posta Angel Paulucci Vineyard Malbec 2008 Mendoza: ripe and 
juicy, long finish, food or sipper. 13.9% BV. +75515, $15.95, QPR: 89.
7. Jip Jip Rocks Shiraz/Cabernet 2009 Padthaway: dense and chunky, some 
mint showing, 14.5% BV. +186114, $16.95, QPR: 89.
8. Tapestry BG & V Shiraz 2009 McLaren Vale: twist top, rich and fruit, 
14% ABV. +247155, $17.95, QPR: 89.
9. Chateau Haut-Canteloup 2009 Blaye: dynamite MVC Bordeaux, 13% ABV, 
delivers flavour and value, ready now. +64747, $13.95, QPR: 93.
10. Chateau Piron 2008 Montagne St-Emilion: juicy, affordable, 12.5% 
ABV. +176982, $16.95, QPR: 89. 
11. Perrin Nature Cotes du Rhone 2010: very good finish and development 
for this organic wine. +948059, 16.95, QPR: 90.
12. L’Excellence du Chateau Bladinieres 2008 Cahors: delicious wood 
aging, 13% ABV. Gold Medal. +264671, $16.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Antolini Moropio Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, +247957, 
$34.95 retail.
2. Stratus Chardonnay 2008 VQA NOTL, +267856, $42.20.
3. Landmark Damaris Reserve Chardonnay 2008 Flocchini & Sangiacomo 
Vyds, Sonoma, +356519, $45.95.
4. Domaine Jean Collet & Fils Vaillons Chablis 1er Cru 008, +650804, 
$28.95. 
5. Domaine Fouassier Les Grands Groux Sancere 2009, +267948, $24.95.
6. Mission Hill Reserve Merlot 2008 VQA Okanagan, +553313, $25.95
7. Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet 
Sauvignon 2007 Napa, +80218, $89.95.
8. Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Sonoma, +642207, $24.95.
9. Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Blue Label Merlot 2008 
California, +595686, 24.95.
10. Kilikanoon Testament Shiraz 2007 Barossa, +50047, $39.95. 
11. Loacker Corte Pavone Brunello di Montalcino 2005, +237263, $49.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JANUARY 21, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not normally available 
for re-tasting from another bottle. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Kunde Magnolia Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Sonoma Valley: zesty, 
citric, good savvy MVC, not your typical Californian sauv blanc. 13.8% 
ABV. +67363, $18.95, QPR: 89. 
2. Wolf Blass Premium Selection Chardonnay 2007 South Australia: rich, 
ripe, unctuous, 13.5% ABV, twist top. +394908, $19.95, QPR: 90.
3. I Campi Campo Vulcano Soave Classico 2009: rich melons, citric 
finish, good lasting body. 12.5% ABV. +269969, $19.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. 13th Street Merlot 2010 VQA Niagara: loaded with flavour, no oak, 
robust finish. 12.5% ABV. +270504, $17.95, QPR: 89.
2. Ridgepoint Merlot 2009 VQA Twenty Mile Bench: complex, chocolate, 
good savoury finish. +270488, $17.95, QPR: 89.
3. Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 California: a good example 
of a US restaurant-ready wine, 13.8% ABV, sip or with food. +38034, 
$19.95, QPR: 89.
4. Concha y Toro Serie Riberas Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 
Marchigue: delicious – it hits all the right and the high notes of 
blackness (fruit, coffee, chocolate, fungi). At this price, buy it all. 
No regrets, +256693, $14.95, QPR: 93.
5. Yabby Lake Cooralook Shiraz 2008 Heathcote Victoria: delicious 
Rhonish complexity, affordable, 14.5% ABV. +262451, $18.95, QPR: 89.
6. Chateau de Treviac 2008 Corbieres: North American appeal, stylish 
fruit of GSM-like, 14.5% ABV. With food or sip. +670505, $15.95, QPR: 
89.
7. Spadina Una Viola Signature Syrah 2008 IGT Sicilia: god Rhonish 
style wine, with North American fruit bomb appeal, 13.5% ABV. +17162, 
$16.95, QPR: 89.
8. Sassoregale Sangiovese 2009 IGT Maremma Toscana: tasty cherries, 
baked aromas, jammy middle, to a savoured finish. 13.5% ABV. +251785, 
$15.95, QPR: 89.
9. Bodegas Castano Reserva Pozuelo 2006 Yecia: very good blend, mostly 
monastrell, 13.5% ABV, nicely aged. Ripe and juicy, although tones of 
the 30% of the international blended grapes seem to dominate. +35485, 
$14.95, QPR: 89.
10. Ignacio Marin Old Vine Garnacha 2008 Carinena: old vines dominate 
the jammy flavours, nicely oaked, underbrush and forest floor. Gold 
medalist. 13% ABV. +214205, $15.95, QPR: 90.
11. Menhir Salento Primitivo di Manduria 2007 Puglia: juicy, North 
American appeal, especially for zinfandel lovers. 15=4% ABV. +268086, 
$15.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Mer Soleil Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2009 Santa Lucia Highlands, 
+958975, $34.95 retail.
2. Faiveley Puligny Montrachet 2008, +241125, $51.95.
3. Torbreck Cuvee Juveniles 2009 Barossa, +723940, $29.95.
4. Chateau Le Castelot 2006 St. Emilion Grand Cru, +245472, $34.95.
5. Chateau Haut Selve Reserve 2006 Graves, +235424, $29.95.
6. Fontanafredda Reserva Barolo 2005, +967141, $49.95.
7. Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos 2009 Bierzo, +675207, $21.95.
8. Vina Herminia Reserva Tinto 2004 Rioja, +236927, $25.95.






WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JANUARY 7, 2012
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not normally available 
for re-tasting from another bottle. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Calamus Cosmic White 2009 VQA Niagara: here is the latest Ontario 
white blend, with riesling, chardonnay, and gewurztraminer. Off-dry and 
balanced. 12.4% ABV. +255893, $14.95, QPR: 89.
2. Hinterbrook Riesling 2010 VQA Niagara Lakeshore: semi-dry, very rich 
tropicality, better as a sipper. 12.4% ABV. Gold Medal All Canadian 
Wine Championship. +270512, $17.95, QPR: 89.
3. Konzelmann Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2009 VQA Niagara: more a sipper, 
aged nicely. California style, with body, grass, some veggie tones. 
13.5% BV. +257790, $12.95, QPR: 89.
4. Sue-Ann Staff Semi-Dry Riesling 2008 VQA Niagara: German mode, more 
of-dry than semi-dry with balancing acid, 10% ABV. +258632, $14.95, 
QPR: 89.
5. Stellar Running Duck Fair Trade Organic Chardonnay 2010 WO Western 
Cape: rounded, oak tones, vanilla. Good body, long food finish. 13% 
ABV. Great price. +149856, $12.95, QPR: 91.
6. Mont’Abano Pinot Grigio 2010 Friuli Grave: tasty, some body, citric 
and flowers in finish. +249532, $16.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Coyote’s Run Pinot Noir 2009 VQA Niagara: strong burgundian 
character, m & m’s (mocha and mushrooms), some underbrush. 13% ABV. 
+53090, $19.95, QPR: 89.
2. Jip Jip Rocks Shiraz 2009 Padthaway: delicious shiraz components, 
oaky black fruit, 14.5% ABV. Top medalist winner. +673897, $16.95, QPR: 
90.
3. Small Gully The Formula Robert’s Shiraz 2006 South Australia: the 
juicy mocha sings here, tasty, depth, 15.9% ABV. Twist top. +142935, 
17.95, QPR: 90
4. Chateau Tour Bicheau 2008 Graves: very god presence and value, 
cassis and tones of age, good price. +226092, $17.95, QPR: 89.
5. Perrin & Fils Peyre Blanche Cairanne Cotes du Rhone Villages 2009: a 
stylish southern Rhone, lots of black fruit, length and depth, 14% ABV. 
+650960, $7.95, QPR: 89.
6. Rivera Cappellaccio Riserva Aglianico 2005 Castel del Monte Puglia: 
deliciously well-aged, meaty, herby, and with great fruit showing. 
+984120, $18.95, QPR: 90.
7. Conte Contini Bonacossi Capezzana Barco Reale di Carmignano 2008: 
chianti-style with allowable cabernet sauvignon, an affordable food 
wine, 13.5% ABV. +508531, $15.95, QPR: 89.
8. Campina de Toro Sabor Real 2008 Toro: a delicious food wine, crafted 
from 70 year old Tempranillo vines. 14.5% ABV. +172932, $15.95, QPR: 
89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Laguna Ranch Chardonnay 2008 Russian River Valley, +544981, $32.95 
retail.
2. Domaine Carrette Chardonnay Pouilly-Fuisse 2009, +264481, $21.95.
3. Domaine Bonard Sancerre 2009, +140525, $21.95.
4. Red Mountain Fall Line Artz Vineyard Red 2007 Washington State, 
+237735, $36.95. 
5. Chateau de Lamarque 2006 Haut-Medoc, +194159, $29.95.
6. Domaine du Grand Montmirail Vacqueyras 2009, +251579, $24.95.
7. La Pieve Barolo 2007, +213132, $28.95.
8. Rosewood Merlot 2009 VQA Niagara Escarpment, +211896, $21.95. 
9. Domaine Machard de Gramont Pommard Clos Blanc 1er Cru 2008, +189779, 
$43.95.





WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR DECEMBER 10, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not normally available 
for re-tasting from another bottle. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Gray Monk Gewurztraminer 2009 VQA Okanagan: viscous, good body and 
mouthfeel, tropical and orchard fruits, no Alsatian bitterness on 
finish. +321588, $18.95, QPR: 89.
2. Chateau des Charmes Old Vines Riesling 2008 VQA Niagara-On-The-Lake: 
classic sophisticated LHR, first course aperitif, Gold Medal at OWA. 
+277228, $16.95, QPR: 91.
3. Konrad Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough: savvy of the month, MVC, 
twist top, 13.5% ABV. +616243, $17.95, QPR: 89.
4. Anne Boecklin Pinot Gris Reserve 2008 Alsace: voluptuous gris, 
smooth on palate, mouthfilling fruity succulence. Gold Medalist. 
+106831, $18.95, QPR: 90.
5. I Stefanini Il Selese Soave 2010: citric tones and pear drops, 12.5% 
ABV. +247932, $14.95, QPR: 89.
  
TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Maipe Reserve Malbec 2009 Mendoza: a big wine, 14% ABV – with fruit, 
mocha, dense mouthfeel, long length. +247320, $17.95, QPR: 89.
2. Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Apalta Vineyard Colchagua: a 
bit hard now but very useful after another 6 months, 14.5% ABV. 
+322586, $19.95, QPR: 89.
3. Maison Audebert & Fils Domaine du Grand Clos Bourgueil 2007: 
wonderful herby cab franc, tasty and long finish, 12.5% ABV. Best with 
food. +664789, $16.95, QPR: 89.
4. Chateau Rochecolombe Cotes du Rhone 2009: off-dry feel, 14.5% ABV 
chunky that is 60% grenache and 40% syrah (which actually dominates), 
fruity North American appeal. If you love this wine, call the agent – 
his phone number is writ large on the back label. Tell him Dino sent 
you. +255034, $14.95, QPR: 90.
5. Katogi & Strofilia Xinomavro 2005 Naoussa: another little gem from 
the Naoussa region, pick it up while you can (ripe and rich, longer 
fruit, mature red, value, 13 % ABV). +249615, $17.95, QPR: 89.
6. Campigli Vallone Pierina Terre Nere Rosso di Montalcino 2007: light 
but nicely aged, 12.5% ABV, off-dry cherries, toast, underbrush and 
strawbs. +249524, $17.95, QPR: 89.
7. Quinta da Veiga Casa das Mouras Reserva 2005 Douro: very nicely 
aged, new style fruity and oak kissed, 14% ABV. Gold Medal. +244756, 
$18.95, QPR: 90.
8. Inurrieta Cuatrocientos 131 Crianza 2007 Navarra: gutsy, full body 
and depth, some NA appeal but more earthy than fleshy. 14.5% ABV. 
+246710, $15.95, QPR: 90.
9. Ramon Ramos Monte Toro Roble 2008 Toro: juicy, Tempranillo character 
shines through, 14.9% ABV. +247783, $14.95, QPR: 90.
10. Taron Reserva 2004 Rioja: hard to beat value – a mature Reserva 
Rioja (14 months in US oak) – for under twenty dollars. 13.5% ABV. 
Delicious for a seven year old Rioja. +246728, $19.95, QPR: 91.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Robert Young Chardonnay 2007 Alexander Valley Sonoma, +670430, 
$49.95 retail.
2. Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay 2009 Carneros Napa, +45583, 
$59.95.
3. Cave de Turckheim Brand Riesling 2008 Alsace Grand Cru, +21303, 
$24.95.
4. Maison Roche de Bellene Montagny 1er cru 2009, +233593, $24.95.
5. Roux Pere et Fils Meursault Blagny 1er cru 2009, +241141, $56.95.
6. Markus Molitor Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese 2008 QmP Mosel, 
+249706, $24.95.
7. Le Clos Jordanne Talon Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009 VQA Vinemount 
Ridge, +143545, $40.
8. Beringer Napa Valley Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, +91058, 
$39.95.
9. Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 
Mendoza, +260919, $22.95. 
10. Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2009 Western Cape, +129353, 
$39.95.
11. Chateau Lyonnat Emotion 2008 Lussac Saint-Emilion, +243774, $21.95.
12. Chateau Rousseau de Sipian 2006 Medoc, +246637, $22.95.
13. Dom. Chanson Beaune Teurons 1er cru 2008, +84426, $43.95.
14. Mayard Clos du Calvaire Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2009, +728139, $34.95.
15. San Felice Il Grigio Chianti Classico Riserva 2007, +716266, $26.95
16. San Guido Le Difese 2009 IGT Toscana, +147876, $26.95
17. Tenuta Sette Ponti Grognolo 2008 IGT Toscana, +717636, $33.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR NOVEMBER 26, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not normally available 
for re-tasting from another bottle. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Camino del Inca Torrontes 2010 Cafayate: aromatics plus, spicy 
berries, twist top, hot finish at 13.5% ABV. +82404, $15.95, QPR: 89.
2. Momo Pinot Gris 2010 Marlborough: lively off-dry character, 
concentrated flavours, delightful full finish, 14.5% ABV. +163535, 
$18.95, QPR: 89.
3. Lucien Albrecht Reserve Gewurztraminer 2009 Alsace: delicious, full 
and ripe with only slight bitterness on finish, 13.5% ABV. +926931, 
$18.95, QPR: 90.
4. Amani Chardonnay 2009 WO Stellenbosch: good balance of orchard fruit 
and wood (new oak), 14% ABV. +687442, $17.95, QPR: 90.
5. Kurt Darting Riesling Spatlese 2008 QmP Ungsteiner Harrenberg: rich 
and still evolving, still developing. 10% ABV. +963207, $19.95, QPR: 
89.
6. Istituto Agrario San Michelle All’Adige Pinot Grigio 2010 Trentino: 
Midweight but concentrated flavours, 13% ABV. +249540, $18.95, QPR: 89.
  

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Benmarco Malbec 2009 Mendoza: some value here with French and US oak 
used, 14% ABV. Whopping big flavours, smoothed by some added bonarda. 
+657601, $16.95, QPR: 89.
2. Concha y Toro Winemaker’s Lot 115 Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Palo Santo 
Vineyard Rapel: terrific composition, very Euro in style and mode 
(black fruit and smoke, underbrush). +30965, $17.95, QPR: 90.
3. Chateau Canteloup 2004 Medoc: rare to find an older simple Medoc. My 
sample had been nicely matured, 13% ABV. Buy it all. +243923, $14.95, 
QPR: 91.
4. Valiano Poggio Teo Chianti Classico 2006: low price, modest finish 
but rich flavours on mid-palate, 13.5% ABV. Gold Medal. +250563, 
$17.95, QPR: 89.
5. Donzel Tinto Reserva 2005 Douro: ripe and voluptuous wine for North 
American tastes. Juicy. 13% ABV. +244707, $18.95, QPR: 89.
6. Palacio de Sada Crianza 2006 Navarra: good fruit, mix of French and 
US oak, over 40-year old vines, 13.5% ABV. Another wine with a great 
price, to go. Maturing nicely. Snap it up. +246736, $14.95, QPR: 90.
7. Las Moras Black Label Bonarda 2008 San Juan Argentina: cherries and 
underbrush dominate, new French oak for 18 months, roasted and toasted 
flavours, 14% ABV. +260901, $15.95, QPR: 90.
8. Cave de Roquebrun La Grange des Combes Saint-Chinian-Roquebrun 2009: 
50syrah/30grenache/20mourvedre ratio, plumy, shows garrigue, long 
finish for food, 13.5% ABV. +155804, $16.95, QPR: 90. 
9. Du Cropio Don Giuva Ciro Rosso Classico Superiore 2005: delicious 
herbs and aging component, baking well. 13.5% ABV. +250829, $17.95, 
QPR: 89.
10. Feudi San Pio Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2008: Ripasso of the 
month, 14% ABV. +181446, $15.95, QPR: 89. 


VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Le Clos Jordanne Le Grand Clos Chardonnay 2009 VQA Niagara Twenty 
Mile Bench, +34561, $65 retail.
2. Kistler Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay 2009, +183921, $72.95
3. Scott Family Estate Dijon Clone Chardonnay 2010 Arroyo Seco 
Monterey, +99051, $23.95.
4. Henschke Mount Edelstone Vineyard Shiraz 2005 Eden Valley South 
Australia, +718601, $99.95.
5. Domaine Louis Jadot Beaune Theurons 1er Cru 2006, +42838, $45.95
6. Gaja Dagromis Barolo 2005, +92742, $64.95
7. La Vite Lucente 2009 IGT Tuscany, +747030, $39.95
8. Quintarelli Rosso Ca’ del Merlo 2002 IGT Veneto, +958595, $84.95
9. Domaine Vincent Delaporte Chavignol Sancerre 2010, +251488, $23.95.
10. Milbrandt The Estates Syrah 2007 Wahluke Slope Columbia Valley, 
+242487, $29.95.
11. Kim Crawford Small Parcel Corner 50 Merlot 2008 Hawkes Bay North 
Island, +252320, $29.95.
12. Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino 2005, +922054, $41.95.
13. Marques de Caceres Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +976670, $29.95.  


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR NOVEMBER 12, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not normally available 
for re-tasting from another bottle. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay 2009 Napa: restaurant-ready wine, 
balanced, lots of fruit, lightly wooded cream-like texture. +136382, 
$18.95, QPR: 90.
2. Kuhlmann Platz Pinot Gris 2008 Alsace: rich, ripe, yet dry finish, 
Concentrated flavours on the mid-palpate, 13.5% ABV. QPR: 90. 
3. Casa del Bosque Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Casablanca: good MVC, 
intense character but modest body. 12.5% ABV. +974717m $14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Vinum Africa Chenin Blanc 2009 WO Western Cape: tasty, dry chenin 
like savvy but bellowed by some BF wine. 13.5% ABV, +739995, $14.95, 
QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Chateau Lafon Cuvee Classic 2006 Listrac: juicy, new style but some 
mushrooms too. 12.5%, good value (already 5 years old). +165399, 
$16.95, QPR: 90.
2. Sampietrana Vigna delle Monache Riserva Salice Salentino 2006: 
delivers the delicious goods, very North American appeal for a fat, 
fleshy, fruity wine. 13.5% ABV. +247908, $15.94, QPR: 90.
3. Bod. I Marin Duque de Medina Gran Reserva 2000 DO Carinena: great 
maturing complexity in this decade old wine, 12.5% ABV, black fruit and 
wood. +148494, $18.95, QPR: 90.
4. Vina Requingua Toro de Piedra Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2008 
Curico: delicious cabby feel, black all the way, long rich finish. 14% 
ABV. +39362, $14.95, QPR: 89.
5. Henry’s Drive Pillar Box Red 2008 Padthaway: despite 14.5% ABV, a 
modest finish, but still a decent Oz shiraz. +685941, $14.95, QPR: 89.
6. Chateau La Cheze 2005 Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux: basic MVC for a 
six year old Bordeaux, enjoyable. +244038, $18.95, QPR: 89.
7. Villa Girardi Bure Alto Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 
2009: Ripasso of the month at the LCBO, 13.5% ABV. +161844, $17.95, 
QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Hidden Bench Chardonnay 2009 Beamsville Bench Niagara, +68817, $32 
retail.
2. Closson Chase Beamsville Bench Chardonnay 2008 Niagara, +230904, 
$39.95
3. Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Chardonnay 2009 Twenty Mile Bench 
Niagara, +33936, $30.
4. Domaines Schlumberger Kessler Riesling 2007 Alsace Grand Cru, 
+61176, $25.95
5. Maison Roche de Bellene Vieilles Vignes Chassagne-Montrachet 2008, 
+241158, $49.95
6. Flat Rock Gravity Pinot Noir 2009 Twenty Mile Bench Niagara, +1560, 
$29.95
7. Unum Wine Cellars Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Napa, +236075, 
$34.95.
8. Stella Bella Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2008, +47639, $28.95
9. Two Hands Zippy’s Block Single Vineyard Shiraz 2008 Barossa, +89516, 
$59.
10. Chateau Beau-Site 2004 Saint-Estephe, +967844, $37.95.
11. Chateau Le Caillou 1998 Pomerol, +45682, $49.95.
12. Rene Bouvier La Justice Gevrey-Chambertin 2008, +241075, $44.95. 
13. Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico Riserva 2007, +650754, 
$27.95.
14. Ruffino Modus 2007 IGT Toscana, +912956, $28.95.
15. Senior de P. Pecina Reserva 2001, +82156, $29.95.

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR OCTOBER 29, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not normally available 
for re-tasting from another bottle. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1.Stoney Ridge Kasper Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Niagara: with only 
11.6% ABV, this is a sensible MVC savvy with good value attached. Full 
of orchard fruit, citric tones, and that tart finish for food. +513705, 
$16.95, QPR: 90.
2.Tawse Sketches of Niagara Riesling 2010 Niagara: 10% ABV and the off-
dry mode makes this Germanic in style, lot of precise fruit, citrus and 
minerals. Hand harvested. +89029, $17.95, QPR: 89. 
3.Trius Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2009 Niagara: overwhelming sense of 
oak from the BF and BA, best with food. One for the woodies. +251470, 
$18.95, QPR: 89.
4.Emiliana Natura Chardonnay 2011 Casablanca Valley: unoaked but very 
good balance of fruit and acid, concentrated body and flavours, 14% 
ABV. Organic. +61895, $15.95, QPR: 89.
5.Sol de Andes Reserva Especial Chardonnay 2009 Casablanca: wow, 
unbeatable at this price, excellent, exceptionally long finish. Nicely 
wooded. Buy it all!! +254326, $16.95, QPR: 93.
6.Mas des Bressades Cuvee Tradition Blanc 2010 Costieres de Nimes: 
concentrated, deep fruit, lovely floral and spicy finish, 13.5% ABV. 
Also has a dollop of Viognier and Marsanne as well. +701094, $14.95, 
QPR: 90.
7.Inama Vin Soave Classico 2009: more concentrated fruit and citrus 
flavours, delicious, 12% ABV. +949768, $17.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1.13th Street Red Palette 2010 Niagara: good red blend, with fruity 
depth and a nice finish. +249458, $14.95, QPR: 89.
2.Concha y Toro Winemaker’s Lot 54 Syrah 2008 Los Brujos Maule: very 
good Rhone taste-alike, 14.5% ABV, exceptional quality that is both 
delicious and affordable. +227496, $16.95, QPR: 90.
3.Haras de Pirque Character Cabernet Sauvignon/Carmenere 2007 Maipo: 
deep, dark and delicious, great MVC for a near-bordeaux, 15% ABV. 
+54502, $18.95, QPR: 89.
4.Domaine Rene Couly Chinon 2009: very cabby franky, 13% ABV, Gold 
Medalist. +7286, $17.95, QPR: 89.
5.Lento Lamezia Riserva 2006 Calabria: much like a Bordeaux but using 
local grapes magliocco, Greco nero, and nerello. Cedar and chocolate. 
+972208, $19.95, QPR: 89.
6.Angelini Negroamaro Del Salento 2007 IGT Puglia: nicely aged, sharp 
flavours on the finish good for food. Spices and dark fruit dominate. 
14.5% ABV. +233874, $15.95, QPR: 89.
7.Salchetto Rosso di Montepulciano 2008: unoaked, fruity, ready sooner 
than later in “new” style Rosso. 13.5% ABV. +165357, $17.95, QPR: 89.
8.Sabor Real Vinas Centenarias Tempranillo 2007 Toro: from older vines, 
affordable, but tight, don’t drink yet, needs time to become a great 
wine. 14.5% ABV. +244772, $15, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1.Hoopenburg Integer Chardonnay 2007 WO Stellenbosch, +174672, $21.95 
retail.
2.Jean-Luc & Paul Aegerter Meursault 2009 Reserve Personelle, +244418, 
$49.95.
3.Jean-Max Roger Cuvee G. C. Sancerre 2010, +189126, $25.95. 
4.Zenato Sergio Zenato Lugana 2008, +928218, $26.95.
5.Chateau Vieux Sarpe 2006 St.Emilion Grand Cru, +943662, $34.95.
6.Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico 2008, +680496, $21.95.
7.Ornellaia Le Volte 2009 IGT Toscana, +964221, $29.95
8.Tommasi Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2007, +356220, $349.95.
9.Miguel Torres Mas Borras Pinot Noir 2008 Penedes, +673483, $29.95.
10.Rioja Bordon Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +114454, $23.95.






WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR OCTOBER 15, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not normally available 
for re-tasting from another bottle. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate Sunrock Vineyard Chardonnay 2008 VQA: 
has the usual suspects (vanilla, toast, caramel, undertones of peach), 
a knockout wine with a lovely persistent aftertaste. +249516, $17.95, 
QPR: 90.
2. Morande Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Casablanca: juicy but balanced 
fruit, good quaffer at this price (good with food too), 13.5% ABV. 
+252346, $12.95, QPR: 90.
3. Kumeu River Village Chardonnay 2008 New Zealand: elegant, value, 
tastes like an expensive Burgundy. +247171, $18.95, QPR: 89.
4. Graham Beck Sauvignon Blanc 2010 WO Coastal Region: another value 
wine, herby but bold finish. +948620, $13.95, QPR: 89.
5. Pierre Sparr Reserve Gewurztraminer 2009 Alsace: good price for a 
terrific MVC wine, classic all the way. +747600, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6. Case Ibidini Insolia 2010 IGT Sicilia: good balance and 
concentration, modest alcohol of 12%, thickly coast the palate, citric 
finish for food. +211839, $19.95, QPR: 89.
7. Maculan Pinot Grigio 2010 IGT Veneto: another useful, slightly thick 
winner, 12.5% ABV. +734921, $13.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Korta Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Lontue Valley: cabby MVC from 
Chile, good finish, 14.5% ABV. +236034, $13.95, QPR: 89.
2. Montes Limited Selection Cabernet Sauvignon/Carmenere 2010 Apalta 
Vineyard Colchagua Valley: absolutely delicious with 30% tamed 
carmenere, 14.5% ABV. +16071, $14.95, QPR: 89. 
3. SXS Step Two Shiraz 2008 South Australia: a crafty juicy blend with 
Euro-style flavours, 13.9% ABV. +246645, $14.95, QPR: 90.
4. Cathedral Cellar Merlot 2008 WO Western Cape: an excellent value 
wine – ripe, red, rosy fruit, some small herbs on the nose, best with 
food. +522219, $14.95, QPR: 89.
5. Girolamo Vendemmia Tardiva Primitivo 2008 IGT Salento: late 
harvested Primitivo produced in a rich, NA style of zinfandel. 15% ABV 
and priced to go! +224667, $14.95, QPR: 91.
6. Scopetani Chianti Riserva 2007: fine value for an aged Chianti, done 
up in typical style. +164814, $14.95, QPR: 89.
7. Vinea Corvina 2007 IGT Veronese: another Italian dye-no-mite priced 
value wine! 13.5% ABV. Corvina is the most exciting of the three grape 
varieties used in Valpolicella production. 

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Catena Alta Chardonnay  2009 Estate Lots Mendoza, +959973, $39.95 
retail.
2. Andre & Edmond Figeat Les Chaumiennes Pouilly-Fume 2010, +196659, 
$21.95. 
3. Le Clos Jordanne Le Clos Jordanne Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009 VQA 
Twenty Mile Bench, +33902, $45.
4. Peju Merlot 2006 Napa Valley, +147322, $44.95.
5. Durigutti Reserva Malbec 2006 Mendoza, +246082, $26.95.
6. Riglos Gran Corte 2007 Mendoza, +243501, $37.95.
7. Pirramimma Petit Verdot 2007 McLaren Vale, +986752, $26.95.
8. Tenuta di Nozzole La Forra Chianti Classico Riserva 2007, +177279, 
$29.95.
9. Farina Le Pezze Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2007, +171587, 
$32.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR OCTOBER 1, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not normally available 
for re-tasting from another bottle. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Coyote’s Run Red Paw Vineyard Pinto Gris 2009 Four Mile Creek 
Niagara: succulent and rich, 12.5% ABV, twist top, good finish. 
+116582, $17.95, QPR: 89.
2. Cicchitti Torrontes 2010 Mendoza: another best value aromatic 
Argentine wine, useful if there is a heat wave in October. 13% ABV, 
succulence. +243204, $11.95, QPR: 89.
3. Valdivieso Reserva Chardonnay 2010 Leyda Valley: balanced wood 
flavours after nine months in French oak barrels, lovely chardonnay 
charmer, smooth despite 14% ABV. +981621, $14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Babich Black Label Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough: good lingering 
complexity, full of body and elegance. 14% ABV. +9142, $17.95, QPR: 90.
5. Villa Maria Private Bin Pinot Gris 2008 East Coast NZ: ripe and 
richer tones, more succulence., 13.5% ABV. +727255, $13.95, QPR: 90.
6. Dourthe La Grande Cuvee Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Bordeaux: not an 
intense savvy but a useful representation of white Bordeaux at its 
finest. Crisp finish. +159640, $14.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Perez Cruz Limited Edition Syrah 2009 Maipo: a major Rhone-type 
blockbuster, 14.5% ABV, lots of spices and earth. +589812, $19.95, QPR: 
89.
2. Domaine Les Yeuses Les Epices Syrah 2008 Vin de Pays d’Oc: an even 
better wine, delicious Rhone MVC, yet some aromatics too. +177584, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
3. Hahn Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Central Coast: juicy, traditional MVC 
for California cab mainly from Monterey. 14.5% ABV. +57877, $17.95, 
QPR: 89.
4. Lamadrid Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Mendoza: great cab 
presence, MVC, cassis all round, 13.7% ABV. +234518, $13.95, QPR: 89.
5. Zolo Malbec 2010 Mendoza: delivers value MVC for Argentine Malbec, 
useful at Fall BBQs, 13.8% ABV. +183905, $12.95, QPR: 89.
6. Hickinbotham Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 South Australia: 
unfiltered, 14.5% ABV, thick, unctuous deep red wine full of flavours. 
+159632, $15.95, QPR: 89.
7. Wild Rock Gravel Pit Red 2008 Gimblett Gravels Hawkes Nay: great 
tasting blend of merlot, malbec and cab franc, 14% ABV, twist top. 
+163600, $17.95, QPR: 89.
8. Remo Farina Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2009: not the 2008 as 
stated in the Vintages catalogue, so it is not as well-aged. At 13.5% ABV, it's the
"Ripasso of the Month" at the LCBO. +999946, $16.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Le Clos Jordanne Talon Ridge Vineyard Chardonnay 2009 Vinemount 
Ridge Niagara, +143974, $40 retail.
2. Yalumba FDW 7C Chardonnay 2008 Adelaide Hills, +244384, $23.95.
3. Domaine Les Vieux Murs Poully-Fuisse 2008, +241117, $23.95.
4. Henri Bourgeois La Porte du Caillou Sancerre 2009, +244806, $23.95.
5.Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino 2005, +579094, $38.95
6. Wolf Blass Gold Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Coonawarra, +606939, 
$27.95.
7. E. Guigal Crozes-Hermitage 2007, +704908, $24.95 retail.
8. Rosehall Run Cold Creek Cabernet Franc 2008 Prince Edward County, 
+149039, $22.95.
9. Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Napa, +246900, $46.95.
10. Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir 2008 Carneros Napa, +438697, $29.95.
11. Chateau Moulin de Sales 2003 Lalande de Pomerol, +245845, $29.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR  SEPTEMBER 17, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are normally not available 
for re-tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. EOS Chardonnay 2008 Central Coast: expect some elegance, burgundian 
style. Notes of vanilla and cream although the back label does not 
mention use of oak. 13.5% ABV. +955914, $18.95, QPR: 89.
2. Santa Ana La Mascota Chardonnay 2010 Mendoza: rich, ripe and full, 
somewhat fleshy, some barrel aging. 14% ABV. +126870, $14.95, QPR: 89.
3. Mount Riley Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough: straight-forward NZ 
savvy, good zesty finish, 13.5% ABV. +981670, $15.95, QPR: 89.
4. Spice Route Sauvignon Blanc 2010 WO Darling South Africa: impressive 
body and concentration and zest for the price, twist top, 13.5% ABV. 
+235895, $14.95, QPR: 90.
5. Joseph Cattin Gewurztraminer 2009 Alsace: off-dry in texture, 
significant mouthfeel, nicely bitterish, Gold Medal winner. Phenomenal 
price. +224626, $16.95, QPR: 90.
6. Terra d’Alter Reserva White 2010 Alentejano: partially fermented and 
aged in oak, indigenous grapes plus viognier, all combine for a creamy, 
vanilla tone. 13.5% ABV. +219212, $13.95, QPR: 89.
 
TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. A by Acacia Pinot Noir 2008 California: basic MVC but delicious – 
with body, substance and flavours. 13.5% ABV. +118927, $16.95, QPR: 89.
2. Michel Torino Don David Reserve Malbec 2009 Cafayate Valley 
Argentina: black juicy fruits, some tightness that needs opening up, 
long food finish. +64998, $12.95, QPR: 89.
3. Jip Jip Rocks Shiraz 2009 Padthaway: full black flavours, minty, 
several gold medals. +673897, $16.95, QPR: 89.
4. Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Shiraz/Cabernet/Petit Verdot 2008 
Barossa: a powerful hit at 15% ABV, creamy oak, blessed by a high 
Parker number. +684357, $14.95, QPR: 89.
5. Slowine Shiraz 2009 WO Overberg South Africa: engaging wine hits all 
the notes of smoke, pepper, fruit, twist top, 14.5% ABV, and priced to 
move. +96503, $13.95, QPR: 89.
6. Chateau Landonnet 2008 Bordeaux: one of your more modestly priced 
Bordeaux, delicious fruit, long finish, 13% ABV. +243931, $13.95, QPR: 
89.
7. Chateau Le Grand Moulin Cuvee Collection 2008 Premieres Cotes de 
Blaye: needs time for tannins to resolve but it is all there, great 
price, 13% ABV, Gold Medalist, great MVC. +245357, $15.95, QPR: 89.
8. Rivera Violante Nero di Troia 2008 Puglia: tasty, earthy and dark 
cherries, good finish, 13.5% ABV. +583435, $15.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. J. Lohr October Night Chardonnay 2007 Arroyo Seco, +225375, $24.95 
retail.
2. Kistler Les Noisetiers Chardonnay 2009 Sonoma Coast, +251223, 
$64.95.
3. Clairaut Estate Chardonnay 2008 Margaret River, +246892, $39.95
4. Wolf Blass Premium Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 South 
Australia, +321927, $22.95
5. Wynns Coonawarra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, +84996, $24.95
6. Chateau Lacoste Borie 2008 Pauillac, +249011, $39.95
7. Chateau Pontet Chappaz 2008 Margaux, +243956, $39.95
8. Domaine Du Haut des Terres Blanches Chateauneuf du Pape 2007, 
+177618, $37.95
9. LAN Gran Reserva 2003 Rioja, +928622, $26.95 

SPECIAL ONTARIO WINES RELEASE: some notes

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR SEPTEMBER 10, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cave Spring Estate Chardonnay 2009 CS Vineyard VQA Beamsville: one 
of the nicest under $20 chards in Ontario, expressive of orchard fruit, 
toasty finish, capable of aging. +256552, $18.95, QPR: 90.
2. Featherstone Gewurztraminer 2010 VQA Twenty Mile Bench: dynamite, 
just like an Alsatian with true bitterness bite in the finish. +64592, 
$19.95, QPR: 90.
3. Flat Rock Chardonnay 2008 VQA Twenty Mile Bench: prize-winning chard 
with tropicality, lightly oaked and nicely integrated. +681247, $16.95, 
QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. 13th Street Premier Cuvee [MC] VQA Niagara, +142679, $29.95 retail.
2. Coyote’s Run Red Paw Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009 VQA Four Mile Creek, 
+79228, $24.95.
3. Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Pinot Noir 2009 VQA Niagara, 
+33894, $30. 






WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR SEPTEMBER 3, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Inniskillin Barrel Aged Pinot Gris 2009 VQA Niagara: bold flavours, 
concentrated body and textures, long finish. Creamy from BA but not 
toasty. 14% ABV. +177766, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Napa Ridge Chardonnay 2009 Napa: a restaurant wine, good MVC 
intensity for a Cali chard. +213678, 89, $18.95.
3. Sebastiani Chardonnay 2008 Sonoma: a restaurant wine, good MVC 
intensity for a Cali chard. +30791, $17.95, QPR: 89.
4. Zolo Torrontes 2010 Mendoza: dryish mode, food or sip, summer wine. 
+183913, $12.95, QPR: 89. 
5. Ventisquero Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Casablanca: good value for 
a MVC savvy, 13% ABV. +211904, $12.95, QPR: 89.
6. Seresin Momo Chardonnay 2009 Marlborough: lightly toasted for a 
different taste, 14% ABV, affordable. +247247, $18.95, QPR: 89.
7. Les Fosses d’Hareng Vouvray 2008: off-dry complexity is revealed, 
great for summer and chenin blanc lovers. Gold Medal winner. +224287, 
$17.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cline Ancient Vines Carignane 2009 Contra Costa County: plums, 
chocolates, cloves – back to school!! 14.5% ABV +32177, $19.95, QPR: 
89.
2. Rutherford Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Napa: a restaurant-ready 
wine, MVC cab from Napa, 13.5% ABV. +73817, $19.95, QPR: 89.
3. St. Supery Merlot 2007 Napa: delicious, fruit-driven, off-dry on 
mid-palate, milk chocolate too (not mocha), 14.5% ABV. Great value for 
a good merlot. +398214, $18.95, QPR: 91.
4. Chemin de Terre 2006 Oregon: a field blend type of wine (seven 
varieties), 13.5% ABV. +234724, $14.95, QPR: 89.
5. Tierra Alta Reserva Carmenere 2007 Maule: good value, substantial 
fruit upfront, some herbaceousness like a cab franc. 14% ABV. +236067, 
$13.95, QPR: 90.
6. Gotham Shiraz 2009 Langhorne Creek South Australia: juicy with 
terrific Oz shiraz MVC. Twist top. $14.5% ABV. +243048, $18.95, QPR: 
89.
7. Maison Roche de Bellene Cotes du Nuits-Villages 2009 Vieilles 
Vignes: candied, off-dry on the mid-palate, but very decent value. 
13.5% ABV. Affordable pinot noir. +240473, $19.95, QPR: 89.
8. Tocchi Sagrantino di Montfalco 2004 Tuscany: blueberry assault but 
aging well, with depth and full expression of the grape. Needs food. 
14.5% ABV. +174664, $19.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Benziger Sangiacomo Vineyard Chardonnay 2009 Carneros, +172205, 
$28.95 retail.
2. Miner Wild Yeast Chardonnay 2007 Napa, +45906, $44.95.
3. Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz 2006 Barossa, 
+528356, $51.95.
4. Lammershoek Roulette 2006 WO Swartland SA, +58164, $25.95.
5. Rust en Vrede Estate Red 2007 WO Stellenbosch SA, +997742, $37.95.
6. Corte Majoli Amarone Della Valpolicella 2007, +81943, $33.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR AUGUST 20, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My "Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Chalone Monterey County Chardonnay 2009: woodsy, affordable, not as elegant as their regular chardonnay, nut priced to sell. 13.5% ABV. +80226, $16.95, QPR: 90.
2. Gold Ring Chardonnay 2009 Mendocino: crisp, slight hint of vanilla and wood tones, easy drinking. Organic. +239442, $16.95, QPR: 89.
3. Lafond SRH Chardonnay 2007 Santa Rita Hills Santa Barbara: nicely aged and matured, ripe and ready, well-integrated tropical fruit and wood tones. Finishes dry. +998641, $19.95, QPR: 90.
4. Brooks Amycas 2008 Oregon: decent priced aromatic white wine blend, crisp and floral from pinot gris and blanc, gewurz, chardonnay, muscat and riesling. 13.1% ABV. +239079, $16.95, QPR: 89.
5. Mil Piedras Viognier 2010 Mendoza: lightly aromatic, 13% ABV, lemons on crisp finish. +240168, $11.95, QPR: 89.
6. Fairhall Downs Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: 13.5% ABV. A rich, concentrated and lingering savvy. +990580, $17.95, QPR: 89.
7. Cave de Hoen Vieilles Vignes Pinot Gris 2009 Alsace: spicy, full-bodied, lingering finish. 12.5% ABV. Medium-dry. +224261, $17.95, QPR: 89.
8. Joseph Cattin pinot Blanc 2009 Alsace: Gold Medalist, orchard fruit, long lifted finish. 12% ABV. +224642, $13.95, QPR: 89.
9. Rene Mure Signature Gewurztraminer 2009 Alsace: off-dry on mid-palate, long lingering finish, whopping 14% ABV. +61218, $17.95, QPR: 90.
10. Muga Barrel Fermented White 2010 Rioja: rich, buttery without the toast, driven by new French oak barrels. Food wine. 13% ABV. +958736, $15.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cristobal 1492 Oak Reserve Shiraz 2008 Mendoza: intense Euro style of syrah, 14% ABV, great price. +236133, $13.95, QPR: 89.
2. Chateau de Panigon Medoc: says “Bordeaux” to me, that hard-grained mix of cassis, plums and wood on the mid-palate. +230367, $16.95, QPR: 89.
3. Chateau Toumilon 2003 Graves: nicely aged, at its peak (prunes not plums), value lies in its age. +177030, $19.95, QPR: 89.
4. Domaine La Croix Belle Syrah 2009 IGT Cotes de Thongue: the south of France is discovering that you can make good wines OUTSIDE of AC rules. This wine has a great syrah hit, modest price, 13.5% ABV. A real winner, buy it all soonest. +160150, $12.95, QPR: 92+
5. Les Celettes 2009 Cotes du Rhone: great blend of mocha, red fruit, smoke, some caramel. Fab price for 13.5% ABV. +235010, $13.95, QPR: 90.
6. Villa Medoro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2008: NA style and appeal of fleshy fruit. But a long finish for food. 13.5% ABV. +242321, $15.95, QPR: 89.  
7. Cantine Cipressi Rumen Molise Rosso 2007: blend of Monte d’Abruzzo and merlot, black fruit and herbs all the way, a bargain wine, 14% ABV, food or sip. +222646, $14.95, QPR: 89.
8. Mas Foraster Josep Foraster Crianca 2006 Conca de Barbera Spain: a nifty wine from the nether regions of Spain, NA style, nicely aged, very fruity and enjoyable, 13.5% ABV. +218321, $13.95.


VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Eberle Estate Chardonnay 2009 Paso Robles, +115964, $22.95 retail.
2. Jean Pabiot et Fils Domaine des Fines Caillottes Pouilly-Fume 2009, +695908, $22.95.
3. Southbrook Triomphe Cabernet/Merlot 2007 Niagara-on-the-Lake, +172080, $22.95.
4. Star Lane Astral Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Santa Ynez Valley Santa Barbara, +239509, $49.95. 
5. Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 McLaren Vale, +730374, $24.95.
6. Hegarty Chamans No. 1 Syrah/Carignan 2005 Minervois, +250605, $24.95


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR AUGUST 6, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. 13th Street White Palette 2010 Niagara: nicely priced white blend 
wine, 12% ABV. Almost a field blend of gewurztraminer, riesling, 
sauvignon blanc and chardonnay. +207340, $14.95, QPR: 89.
2. Peninsula Ridge McNally Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Beamsville 
Bench: California style succulence, a tame savvy with some body and 
fair price, 13.5% ABV. Food or sip. +243147, $17.95, QPR: 90.
3. Villa Mt. Eden Grand Reserve Bien Nacido Chardonnay 2007 Santa Maria 
Valley: a deft California chardonnay, toasty, good finish, restaurant 
wine. 14.3% ABV.
4. Crios de Susana Balbo Torrontes 2010 Argentina: best value summer 
sipper, although 13.5% ABV. A Toronto wine, so drink up! +1834, $11.95, 
QPR: 89.
5. Vasse Felix Chardonnay 2009 Margaret River: classic burgundian 
excellence and elegance. 13% ABV, with wild yeast fermentation and 
French oak. +903617, $19.95, QPR: 90.
6. Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough: intense 
grapefruit and grass quality, some lemons and green peppers. +677450, 
$19.95, QPR: 89.
7. Glen Carlou Chardonnay 2008 WO Paarl: well-rounded chardonnay, 14% 
ABV, wood lingers on the finish, but sip or food. +915231, $17.95, QPR: 
90. 
8. Domaine de Rochebin Clos Saint-Germain Vieilles Vignes Chardonnay 
Bourgogne 2009: MVC entry-level burgundy, but medium-bodied with 12.5% 
ABV, some depth due to older vines. +243873, $17.95, QPR: 89.
9. Domaine Bois-Malinge Muscadet Sur Lie Sevre et Maine 2009: lemon, 
crisp, MVC with seafood. Good price. +224246, $13.95, QPR: 89.
10. Hoffman-Simon Riesling Spatlese 2009 Piesporter Goldtropfchen 
Mosel: just in time for summer sipping, 8% ABV, delivers a lot of fruit 
and MD sweetness. +216499, $19.95, QPR: 89.
11. Aveleda Follies Alvarinho 2010 Minho Portugal: very fruity and 
refreshing, sip or with food, 12.5% ABV. +59048, $15.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Bogle Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 California: juicy, tasty, 
the Vintages note correctly says it “really over-delivers”. +904565, 
$17.95, QPR: 89.
2. California Karma Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Paso Robles: commercial 
cabernet sauvignon, very rich tasting, 14.2% ABV. +213637, $15.95, QPR: 
89.
3. Canepa Reserva Privada Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 Maipo: off-dry, fruit 
fresh, needs a bit more time, still approachable. +412031, $13.95, QPR: 
89.
4. Emiliana Adobe Reserva Syrah 2009 Rapel: tasty but lusty Euro-style 
syrah, needs a bit of time, but pick some up at this modest price. 14% 
ABV. Organic. +213553, $12.95, QPR: 90.
5. Peter Lehmann Layers Red 2008 Barossa: red wine blend (G-S-M plus 
Tempranillo and carignane), 14.5% ABV, overheated Mediterranean style. 
+138883, $17.95, QPR: 89. 
6. Seigneurs d’Aiguilhe 2009 Castillon: intense fruit from a modestly-
priced second wine (Ch. D’Aiguilhe), 14% ABV. +195172, $19.95, QPR: 89.
7. Les Vignerons de Visan Visan 2007 Cotes du Rhone Villages: Gold 
Medal winner, MVC all the way, excellent price. +179234, $12.95, QPR: 
89.
8. Burgo Viejo Reserva 2004 Rioja: excellent value for an MVC Rioja. 
All the points are there, 13.5% ABV. +168823, $18.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Burrowing Owl Chardonnay 2009 Okanagan, +208694, $32.95 retail.
2. Fielding Pinot Gris 2010 Niagara, +251108, $21.95.
3. Talbott Logan Chardonnay 2008 Santa Lucia California, +716290, 
$26.95.
4. William Fevre Chablis 1er Cru 2008, +169805, $29.95.
5. Freemark Abbey Merlot 2008 Napa, +1602, $29.95
6. Chateau Monbrison 2001 Margaux, +235440, $43.95
7. Cave de Rasteau Ortas Les Hauts du Village Rasteau 2006 Cotes du 
Rhone-Villages, +581785, $22.95.
WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JULY 23, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Spinyback Sauvignon Blanc 2009: a fine tast9ing savvy, full of 
grassy character, longer finish, 12.5% ABV. With food or as sipper. 
+694737, $14.95, QPR: 90.
2. Kurt Darting Gewurztraminer Kabinett 2009 Durkheimer Nonnengarten 
Pfalz: delicious summer sipper, very flavourful, only slight bitter 
tang on finish. 11% ABV. +944181, $16.95, QPR: 90. 
3. Vinea Garganega 2009 IGT Verona: golden colour, thickish body, 
concentrated tasty and ripe flavours with some botrytis. +230656, 
$12.95, QPR: 89.
4. Domaine Trotereau Quincy 2009: quality savvy, good balance, long 
finish. +225185, $17.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Columbia Winery Merlot 2007 Columbia Valley: a restaurant wine, 
ready now with MVC plumy fruit and wood tones. +715870, $16.95, QPR: 
90.
2. Tabali Reserva Especial Syrah 2008 Limari: very North Rhonish, 14.5% 
ABV, spicy components. +213538, $19.95, QPR: 89.
3. Small Gully The Formula Robert’s Shiraz 2006 Adelaide Plains: very 
intense, good chocolate-mocha flavours, 15.9% ABV. +142935, $18.95, 
QPR: 89.
4. Tokara Shiraz 2007 Stellenbosch: another quality North Rhone MVC 
knock-off wine, 14.5% ABV. +240242, $16.95, QPR: 90.
5. Chateau Pindefleurs 2007 St. Emilion Grand Cru: excellent tones on 
the mid-palate, intense and great soft flavours, ready now. +102764, 
$20, QPR: 91.
6. Castello di Volpaia Prelius Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 IGT Maremma 
Tuscany: a delicious food-driven cabby, 13.5% ABV. Ready now. +224022, 
$17.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Coyote’s Run Black Paw Vineyard Chardonnay 2009 VQA Four Mile Creek, 
$21.95 retail, +49775
2. Le Clos Jordanne Claystone Terrace Chardonnay 2008 VQA Twenty Mile 
Bench, $40, +56929
3. Macrostie Chardonnay 2008 Sonoma Coast, $30.95, +244467
4. Josef Chromy Chardonnay 2009 Tasmania, $29.95, +162982
5. Jean Fery et Fils Les Nosroyes Puligny-Montrachet 2008, $52.95, 
+243568
6. La Chablisienne Fourchaume Chablis 1er Cry 2008, $28.95, +656835
7. La Crema Pinot Noir 2008 Los Carneros, $44.95, +58025
8. Mount Eden Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Santa Cruz Mountains, 
$49.95, +31831
9. Chateau Diane de Belgrave 2006 Haut-Medoc, $24.95, +226050
10. Franco Molino Barolo 2006, $29.95, +232967
11. Vignamaggio Gherardino Chianti Classico 2008, $23.95, +963512


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JULY 9, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Agustinos Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Bio Bio Chile: your basic MVC 
savvy, affordable for summer consumption. +213595, $12.95, QPR: 89.
2. Summerhouse Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: delicious intensity 
for a NZ savvy without the blatant grass. 13.5% ABV. +218305, $19.95, 
QPR: 90.
3. Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Riesling 2009 QbA Mosel: great summer sipper at 
8.5% ABV. Medium-dry, long finish of peaches. +596601, $12.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel 2009 Lodi: Juicy Lucy, 14.5% ABV. 
+678698, $16.95, QPR: 89.
2. Lamadrid Single Vineyard Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Mendoza: 
soft enough to be a merlot? 14.5% ABV. Ready now. +223206, $16.95, QPR: 
89.
3. Concha y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Syrah 2008 Maipo: another juicy 
specimen, 14.5% ABV, +19042, $19.95, QPR: 89.
4. Dandelion Sister’s Run God’s Hill Shiraz 2008 Barossa: another full 
ripe red wine, another 14.5% ABV, price slightly lower than above three 
wines. +222018, $15.95, QPR: 89.
5. Lomond Syrah 2008 Cape Aguihas South Africa: heady, bright, in-your- 
face with red fruits, yet in definite Euro-mode. 14% ABV. +146464, 
$19.95, QPR: 90.
6. Aubert Visan Cotes du Rhone-Villages 2009: juicy and delicious but 
with domination by syrah flavours even though syrah comprises only 20% 
of total (grenache is the other 80%). 14.5% ABV compares well with New 
World wines, yet it is priced to go. Load up! +224915, $12.95, QPR: 91.
7. Paolo Leo Riserva Salice Salentino 2006: nicely and richly aged, 
13.5% ABV, black and red fruits and barrel tones. Fabulous finish. 
+214700, $14.95, QPR: 90.
8. Zenato Cormi 2007 IGT Veneto: blend of corvina and merlot. A 
definite BBQ wine, lighter than most, ready now for summer. 13.5% ABV. 
+108282, $17.95, QPR: 89.
9. Lan Reserva 2005 Rioja: good MVC detail. Only one year in mainly US 
oak, 13.5% ABV, smoky, ripe, with an appreciable finish. +42929, 
$19.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Flat Rock Cellars Seriously Twisted 2008 VQA Twenty Mile Bench, 
+877783, $22.95 retail.
2. Far Niente Estate Chardonnay 2009 Napa, +539130, $57.95.
3. Ironstone Estate Grown Reserve Chardonnay 2009 Sierra Foothills, 
+158774, $25.95.
4. R de Rieussec 2007 Bordeaux Blanc, +100891, $22.
5. Hidden Bench Terroir Cache Meritage 2008, +505610, $35.20.
6. Saltram Mamre Brook Shiraz 2008 Barossa, +32227, $24.95.
7. Thorn-Clarke Shotfire Shiraz 2008 Barossa, +18796, $21.95.
8. Chateau Hourbanon 2003 Medoc, +125922, $21.95.
9. Terre del Barolo Monvigliero Barolo 2004, +97535, $33.95.
10. Tenuta di Ghizzano Veneroso 2007 IGT Toscana, +103218, $29.95.
11. Ramos Pinto Duas Quintas Reserva 2007 Douro, +951301, $21.95.
12. La Rioja Alta Fina Alberdi Reserva 2003 Rioja, +161893, $29.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JUNE 25 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
But first: Ciderie St. Nicolas Pom’or Tradition Crackling Cider: great 
for summer, with its 7% ABV and cider apple component. +179473, $12.95, 
QPR: 90.

1. Alamos 2010 Chardonnay Mendoza: MVC Chardonnay but with a summer 
sipper-like finish. +801571, $13.95, QPR: 89.
2. Familia Zuccardi Organica Torrontes 2010 Mendoza: fruity, a bit on 
the orange side with low bitterness, great for patios. Organic. 
+232694, $13.95.
3. Pfaffenheim 2009 Cuvee Bacchus Gewurztraminer Alsace:
rose petals on the nose, slightly bitter finish, very definitive MVC. 
Spiciness, a touch of sweetness. +996017, $19.95, QPR: 90.
4. Don Sebastiani SKN Chardonnay 2007 Napa: one for the woodies, 13.5% 
ABV, lots of caramel and toast. +225367, $16.95, QPR: 90.
5. Balthasar Ress Riesling Spatlese 1998 Hattenheim Nussbrunnen 
Rheingau: a modest 8.5% ABV, but very well-aged and exceptionally 
priced. Expect honeyed tones plus the usual aged petrol component. 
+160762, $20.95, QPR: 91.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Casa Silva Los Lingues Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 
Colchagua: wonderful bouquet of flavours and aromas, right through to 
the finish and beyond: florals, smokes, minerals, red and black 
berries, really complicated. 14.5% ABV. +640870, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Howling Moon 2008 Old Vine Zinfandel Lodi: smokey wood tones linger, 
13.5% ABV, rich, full, off-dry, BBQ necessary. +57356, $18.95, QPR: 90.
3. Marquis Philips 2008 Shiraz McLaren Vale: loaded with character and 
16% ABV. Smoked bacon, blackberries, mocha, etc. +17475, $15, QPR: 91.
4. Wynns Coonawarra Estate Shiraz: very Rhonish, 14% ABV, a keeper or 
drink now. +433060, $19.95, QPR: 90.
5. Amani Pendana Shiraz 2007 Stellenbosch: again, very gamey Rhonish, 
perhaps some brett on the finish. 14.5% ABV. +220079, $18.95, QPR: 90.
6. Rupert & Rothschild Classique 2008 Western Cape: another fine 
Bordeaux-style blend (cabernet sauvignon – merlot) at 13.5% ABV, very 
Euro in mode. +717991, $19.95, QPR: 89.
7. Herdade dos Ourives 2006 Colheita Seleccionada Alentejano: very 
upfront juicy in NA appeal, plummy, smokey, red currants and chocolate 
finish. +240663, $18.95, QPR: 89.
8. Pago de San Gabriel Zubiola 2007 Navarra: mocha, oaked, 14% ABV, 
boredeaux-blend and some of the style (pencils, smokey toast, black 
fruits). +242438, $20.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. De Loach 2008 OFS Chardonnay Russian River, $37.95 retail, +0729343
2. Chateau Fonteneil 2006 Fronsac, $49.95, +567404
3. Carlos Serres 2001 Gran Reserva Rioja, $27.95, +221945)
4. Closson Chase 2008 KJ Watson Vineyard Chardonnay Niagara River, 
$39.95, +230912
5. Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir 2008 Okanagan, $24.95, +585760
6. Frog’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Napa, $49.95, +932400
7. Grgich Hills Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Napa, $69.95, +71407
8. Antucura Calvulcura 2008 Uco Valley Mendoza, $23.95, +233973
9. Pikes 2008 Eastside Shiraz Clare Valley, $23.95, +77891
10. Kim Crawford SP Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Marlborough, $24.95, 
+38240
11. Suoi Barolo 2006 Piedmont, $33.95, +212522
12. Poggio Scalette Il Carbonaione 2007 IGT Alta Valle Tuscany, $58.95, 
+719872

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JUNE 11, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Lakeview Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Niagara: great MVC (greens 
such as grass, asparagus, gooseberry) for an Ontario savvy. Gold Medal 
winner. +226027, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Vineland Estates Chenin Blanc 2008 Niagara Escarpment: spices and 
aromatics reminiscent of the Loire, terrific value with an off-dry 
finish, 11.7% ABV. Sipper. +227033, $17, QPR: 90
3. Napa Ridge Chardonnay 2009 Napa: MVC California chardonnay (slightly 
off-dry, ripe orchard fruit, more toast than smoke, bracing 
tropicality). +213678, $19.95, QPR: 89.
4. Famiglia Bianchi Chardonnay 2010 Mendoza: light body but 14.5% ABV, 
easy finish, great price, MVC for a barrel-fermented chardonnay. +1461, 
$12.95, QPR: 90.
5. Braided River Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough: herby NZ MVC savvy 
with body and finishing acid, 13% ABV. +214585, $15.95, QPR: 90.
6. Domaine des Malandes Chablis 2009: classic and easy, simple, 
uncomplicated Chablis with MVC (minerality, apple, and lemon). +111658, 
$18.95, QPR: 89.
7. Godo Bianco 2009 IGT Bianco Veronese: interesting, caught my 
palate’s attention, slightly off-dry, useful with food or sipping. 
+214353, $14.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Emiliana Novas Limited Selection Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2008 
Maipo: incredible value for an organic wine, with alcohol (14.5%), 
finishing acid on the length, ripe and fruity style of cabby MVC, some 
plumminess from the merry merlot. With food or sipping. Load up at this 
price – buy it all!! +685792, $14.95, QPR: 93.
2. Thelema Shiraz 2006 WO Stellenbosch: good balance, Rhonish MVC tones 
(black fruit, mocha). +146431, $19.95, QPR: 89.
3. Chateau Begadanet 2005 Medoc: maturing nicely, lots of underbrush 
and wood, fruit on the mid-palate. +138875, $17.95, QPR: 90.
4. Clos de Verdots Merlot 2009 Bergerac: slight Bordeaux complexity, 
affordable, Gold Medal winner, 14% ABV. +219436, $15.95, QPR: 90.
5. Apollonio Terragnolo Negroamaro 2004 IGT Salento Rosso: MVC Salento 
(deep brooding flavours, some olives and smoked meat), long length, 
ready to roll with 14.5% ABV. +211821, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6. Zeni Costalago 2008 IGT Rosso Veronese: North American appeal of 
cherries and chocolate, becoming mocha on the finish. 14% ABV, useful 
sipper as well as with food. +220848, $14.95, QPR: 89.
7. Conde de Valdemar Reserva 2004 Rioja: MVC for Rioja, some coconut 
from the US oak, age and price is great. 13.5% ABV. +947309, $18.95, 
QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Dutton Estate Dutton Palms Vineyard Chardonnay 2008 Russian River 
Valley, +234856, $54.95 retail.
2. Jacques Bourguignon Chablis 1er Cru 2009, +208033, $25.95.
3. Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Napa, +149955, 
$99.55.
4. Bonny Doon Vineyard Le Cigare Volant 2006 California, +975847, 
$39.95.
5. La Crema Pinot Noir 2009 Russian River, +906404, $44.95
6. Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Howell Mountain Napa, +234005, $79.95
7. Domaine du Haut des Terres Blanches Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, 
+177618, $37.95.
8. Pasquale Pelissero Bricco San Giuliano Barbaresco 2007, +214551, 
$27.95.
9. Castello di Gabbiano Chianti Classico Riserva 2007, +216309, $22.95.
10. Giacomo Montresor Amarone della Valpolicella 2006, +204826, $53.95.
11. Remo Farina Monte Fante Riserva Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 
2004, +63636, $62.95.

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MAY 28, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Mike Weir Riesling 2008 VQA NOTL: very Euro in mode, great Riesling 
MVC. Softer finish than expected, not shrill like many Ontario 
Rieslings. +229286, $14.95, QPR: 90.
2. Robert Oatley Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Margaret River/Pemberton: body 
and soul of savvy, but the bizarre zest. Good finish. Sip or food. 
+186106, $17.95, QPR: 89.
3. The Winery of Good Hope Bush Vine Chenin Blanc 2009 Stellenbosch: 
lots more complexity here than expected at this modest price level. 
Orchard fruit and long length. +158121, $11.95, QPR: 89.
4. Faller Geisberg Riesling 2007 Alsace Grand Cru: excellent Riesling 
MVC, dry intense flavours, slightly honeyed. +225169, $20.95, QPR: 90.
5. Joseph Cattin Muscat 2009 Alsace: good peachy flavours from the 
muscat grape, intense grape flavours at times, floral and fragrant. 
+224634, $14.95, QPR: 89.
6. Domaine Roux Pere et Fils Montagny 1er Cru 2009: very well made for 
the price level, and indeed it is a complex burgundian chardonnay. 
Butter and fruit, good length. +208017, $18.95, QPR: 91.
7. Domaine de la Grange Vieilles Vignes Muscat Sevre & Maine 2009 Sur 
Lie: body and flavour are emphasized, great price for an experienced 
melon de Bourgogne. Longer length. +682625, $13.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Bommarito Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Napa: 14.5% ABV makes this a heavy 
chocolate-smokey modern wine with some berries. +213918, $19.95, QPR: 
89.
2. Emiliana Winemaker’s Selection Syrah 2009 La Quebrada Casablanca: 
old world Rhone syrah, complexity and long length, 14.5% ABV, plus it 
is organic as well. +212407, $18.95, QPR: 92.
3. Chateau La Tour de L’Eveque Vendanges Manuelles 2005 Cotes de 
Provence: mouthfilling mix of syrah and cabernet sauvignon, good 
maturity. +440123, $17.95, QPR: 90.
4. Domaine Mercouri Red 2006 Letrinon Greece: a fairly complex, mature 
wine of 13% ABV, long length to the finish, mature berry flavours. 
+652974, $18.95, QPR: 89.
5. Drei Dona Tenuta La Palazza Notturno Sangiovese 2008 IGT Forli 
Emilia-Romagna: some complex cherries and spices, with its North 
American appeal it has a bit of fruitcake. +39958, $17.95, QPR: 89.
6. Bod. Alitus Ardal Crianza 2005 Ribera del Duero: nicely aged and 
affordable blend of Tempranillo and cab sauvignon. 14% ABV. Sweet 
vanilla and coconut on the finish from US oak.
7. Antiche Terre Ripasso Valpolicella 2008: the LCBO’s “Ripasso of the 
month”. +178459, $14.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Clos du Bois Sonoma Reserve Chardonnay 2008 Russian River Valley, 
+479527, $22.95 retail.
2. Nobilo Icon Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Marlborough, +912337, $24.95
3. Domaine Latour-Giraud Les Narvaux Meursault 2008, +12369, $44.95
4. Domaine Sylvain Bailly Terroirs Sancerre 2009, +223859, $24.95
5. 7 Deadly Zins Old Vine Zinfandel 2008 Lodi, +59311, $24.95
6. Fess Parker Rodney’s Vineyard Syrah 2007 Santa Barbara, +232546, 
$39.95
7. Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 Napa, +238758, $29.95
8. Gamble Family Vineyards Paramount 2005 Napa, +221143, $59.95
9. Brothers in Arms Sixth Generation Reserve Shiraz 2003 Langhorne 
Creek, +222000, $27.95
10. La Castellina Squarcialupi Chianti Classico Riserva 2006, +214627, 
$27.95
11. Alvaro Palacios Camins del Priorat 2008, +216291, $22.95
12. Leza Garcia Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +681601, $27.95


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MAY 14, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Konzelmann Winemaster’s Collection Late Harvest Gewurztraminer 2008 
VQA Niagara: heavy-heavy Gewurz taste and body, off-dry, solid wine for 
cheese, fruit or Asiatic food. +392357, $17.20, QPR: 90.
2. Quails’ Gate Chardonnay 2008 VQA Okanagan: nice blend of BF and SS 
wines, oak in back ground, but terrific with food. 14% ABV. +377770, 
$19.95.
3. Wynn’s Coonawarra Estate Chardonnay 2009: 13.5% ABV, juicy, good 
oak-fruit balance, could improve. Food wine or sip, +468728, $17.95, 
QPR: 89.
4. Michel Delhommeau Cuvee Harmonie Muscadet de Sevre-et-Maine 2009 Sur 
Lie: minerals suggest fish, good price for tart food wine. +164624, 
$12.95, QPR: 89.
5. Sols & Sens Cotes du Rhone-Villages Laudin 2009: 60% grenache blanc, 
30% viognier, 10% rousanne. 13.5% ABV. Rich and ripe orchard fruit, 
good weight. +223438, $13.95, QPR: 90.
6. Fillaboa Albarino 2009 Rias Baixas: orchard fruit plus tropicality 
lading to a citric finish. Food wine. +214171, $15.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Rutherford Vintners Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Napa: delicious delivery 
of black fruit, juicy and ripeness begins with the fabulous nose. 12.5% 
ABV. +213777, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Elementos Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Mendoza: very much an 
Argentine cabernet, MVC, 14% ABV. Value at this price level. +218974, 
$12.95, QPR: 89.
3. Jolien Schaal Syrah 2008 WO Elgin/Walker Bay South Africa: 13.5% 
ABV, Euro-Rhone wine mode for syrah. +206581, $17.95, QPR: 89.
4. Domaine Le Grand Retour Plan de Dieu 2009 Cotes du Rhone-Villages: 
85% grenache, 10% mourvedre, 5% syrah, 14.5% ABV. Gold medalist, 
action-value packed with fruit and grassiness. +224592, $13.95, QPR: 
89.
5. Domaine Martin Cairanne 2009 Cotes du Rhone-Villages: unfiltered, 
14% ABV, developing black fruit, dense body. +223461, $16.95, QPR: 89.
6. Tor del Colle Riserva Brindisi 2006: fruity, engaging, intense 
vanilla, well-priced, 13% ABV. +211847, $12.95, QPR: 89.
7. Marchesi Torrigiani Torre de Ciardo 2006 IGT Toscana: delicious 
Italianate flavours, some barn, chianti-style. 14% ABV. +212084, 
$19.95, QPR: 90.
8. Luigi Righetti Campolieti Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 
2008: Ripasso-of-the-month. +695890, $16.95, QPR: 89.
9. Dehesa Gago 2009 Toro: 14.5% ABV, heavy-heavy laden with flavours on 
the back palate, long tannin finish, could lay down for a while. 
+173120, $14.95, QPR: 89.
10. Vega Escal 2006 Priorat: full of flavours (smoke, black fruit, some 
Rhone tones, long finish). 14.5% ABV. +210997, $18.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Boony Doon Beeswax Vineyard Le Cigare Blanc 2008 Arroyo Seco Central 
Coast, +95331, $29.95 retail. 
2. Mer Soleil Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2008 Santa Lucia Highlands 
California, +958975, $34.95.
3. Truchard Chardonnay 2008 Carneros Napa, +60459, $34.95.
4. Henry Darnat Puligny-Montrachet 2007, +21080, $49.95. 
5. Vincent Girardin Les Vieilles Vignes Pouilly-Fuisse 2008, +207894, 
$24.95.
6. Domaine de Beaurenard Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2009, +247411, 
$43.95.
7. Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Sonoma County, +226944, 
$22.95.
8. Norton Privada 2007 Mendoza, +148155, $21.95.
9. Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet/Shiraz 2007 South Australia, +309625, 
$37.95.
10. Chateau Cherchy-Desqueyroux 2005 Graves, +125518, $21.95.
11. Massucco Barbaresco 2006, +214528, $27.95.
12. Palazzo Brunello di Montalcino 2004, +660746, $49.95.
13. Lar de Paula Reserva 2004 Rioja, +208207, $21.95.







WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR APRIL 30, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Paul Dolan Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Mendocino County: soft with some 
rancio tones, typical California savvy with muted herbs. Organic. 13.5% 
ABV. +46334, $19.95, QPR: 89.
2. Cono Sur Sauvignon Blanc 2010 San Antonio Valley Chile: hits the 
spot with the lovely fruit side of gooseberry and sweet fresh 
grapefruit. Intense, 13.5% ABV, organic. +213587, $12.95, QPR: 90.
3. Tahbilk Marsanne 2009 Nagambie Lakes Victoria: label has not been 
seen here in many years, it was a fave of mine. Always with great fruit 
and body. Delicious succulence. +117945, $16.95, QPR: 90.
4. Cave de Hoen Pinot Gris 2009 Alsace: not as off-dry in the mouth as 
indicated by the Vintages’ descriptor. Gold Medalist. 12.5% ABV. 
+196790, $16.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Finca Flichman Gestos Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Mendoza: juicy cabby, 
14.5% ABV, fleshy, slightly off-dry, ready now. A mix from two 
vineyards (one at 1100 meters, the other at 700 meters). +199711, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
2. La Posta Cocina Blend 2008 Mendoza: from the Catena family, 13.5% 
ABV, excellent composition from this almost-field blend. Affordable! 
+199513, $12.95, QPR: 90.
3. Nativa Single Vineyard Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Maipo: 
deep, juicy cabby MVC, lots of blackcurrants, mint, earth and mocha. 
14.5% ABV, organic grapes. +975359, $19.75, QPR: 90.
4. Chateau de Fontenelles Cuvee Renaissance 2007 Corbieres: delicious 
mocha, black fruit, dense structure. Gold Medal in 2009 plus additional 
years of aging. 14% ABV. +148692, $18.95, QPR: 90.
5. Cave Saint Desirat Saint-Joseph 2007: all-syrah juiciness, light 
oaking, lighter in alcohol (12.5%), more a food wine. Some great value 
at this price level. +219378, $19.95, QPR: 90.
6. Macarico Rosso del Vulcano 2007 Basilicata: ripe, complex, mouth-
filling, food wine, good long finish. 13% ABV. +205880, $14.95, QPR: 
89.
7. Leone de Castris Riserva Salice Salentino 2006 50th Vintage: tight 
and chewy, developing nicely, but ready next year. Worth laying down at 
this price. +597534, $16.95, QPR: 90.
8. Giordano Promessi Sposi Vespero Rosso 2008 IGT Toscana: North 
American approachability for the NA style of quaffing. Fruity 
sangiovese flavour. Sip or food. 14$ ABV. +72421, $14.95, QPR: 90.
9. Casa Gualda Plus Ultra 2006 Ribera del Jucar Spain: juicy, tarry 
fruit, ready soon. Mostly petit verdot. +211011, $13.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Charles Baker Picone Vineyard Riesling 2008 VQA Vinemount Ridge, 
+126433, $35.20 
2. Malivoire Mottiar Chardonnay 2009 VQA Beamsville Bench, +146985, 
$29.95
3. Robert Mondavi Winery Reserve Chardonnay 2007 Napa, +258186, $44.95
4. Rodney Strong Chalk Hill Chardonnay 2008 Sonoma, +275552, $22.95
5. Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Gold Series Red Meritage 2008 VQA 
Niagara, +224675, $24.95
6. Southbrook Triomphe Cabernet Franc 2008 VQA NOTL biodynamic, 
+237065, $22.95
7. Sarasina Atrea Old Soul Red 2006 Mendocino, +214825, $27.95
8. Bacio Divino Janzen Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Napa, +232355, $47.95
9. Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Napa, +232371, $29.95
10. Campbells Bobbie Burns Shiraz 2008 Rutherglen Victoria, +225433, 
$22.95
11. Henschke Johann’s Garden 2007 Barossa, +946061, $54.95
12. Howard Park Leston Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Margaret River, +923565, 
$29.95
13. Rustenberg John X Merriman 2007 WO Stellenbosch, +707323, $27.95
14. Rocca di Castagnoli Poggio A’frati Chianti Classico Riserva 2006, 
+23358, $29.95
15. Don Jacobo Gran Reserva 1995 Rioja, +923748, $27.95





WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR APRIL 16, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Rodney Strong Chardonnay 2008 Sonoma: delicious California 
chardonnay with fruit, light wood but heavier cream. A restaurant wine. 
13.8% ABV. +226936, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Cumulus Wines Rolling Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2009 New South Wales: 
12% ABV, screwcap, “Miss Marple” on the label, MVC wine. Consistent, 
winning FIVE major Bronze Awards. +678821, $14.95, QPR: Bronze.
3. Eradus Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Awatere Valley Marlborough: excellent 
savvy component set, lovely long finish of fruit. +225557, $17.95, QPR: 
90.
4. Pierre Sparr Reserve Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: 13.5%, MVC for the 
grape, intense fruit flavours plus some concentrate on the palate. 
+747600, $17.95, QPR: 90.
5. Domaine Cordaillat Reuilly 2009: another lovely savvy, not to be 
confused with Burgundy’s Rully (chardonnay). Not too grassy, not too 
fruity, but still better with food. +202432, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6. Triade Bianco 2009 IGT Campania: made from indigenous grapes, crisp 
and lovely flavours of orchard fruit. Food wine only. +214718, $12.95, 
QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Palatine Hills Proprietors Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 VQA 
Niagara Lakeshore: 12.8% ABV, but expect California-like (not Bordeaux-
like) flavours. Tasty, off-dry fruit, some oak, vibrant and juicy. 
+121699, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Grove Street Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Sonoma: lovely high potency 
dynamite cabby from sunny Cali, lots of forward flavours, 15.4% ABV 
(!). Priced to move.  +161190, $15, QPR: 90. 
3. V. Bianchi Passion Reserve Malbec 2008 San Rafael Mendoza: plumy, 
ripe, over-the-top berries, soft finish, sip. But 14.5% ABV. +191775, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
4. Delheim Shiraz 2007 WO Simonsberg-Stellenbosch: every time this 
label comes here, it is time to load up. Some years are better than 
others, but this one is terrific if you like the “Rhone tones” of 
Northern Rhone syrah (NOT like Oz shiraz, despite the name). Excellent. 
14.5% ABV. Buy it all! In fact, start buying on Thursday or Friday at 
those stores that release early. +959080, $17.95, QPR: 93.
5. Apollonio Valle Cupa 2004 IGT Salento Rosso Puglia: some raisins 
from aging, very nicely placed on the palate, unfiltered, one year 
wood, one year bottle, 14.5% ABV. Gold Medal. +84046, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6. Quinta da Ponte Pedrinha 2006 Dao: juicy but also 14.5% ABV, longer 
finish, sip or food. From 100% jaen grapes (mencia in Spain). +219188, 
$15.95, QPR: 89.
7. Vina Mayor Crianza 2006 Ribera del Duero: affordable price for MVC 
Ribera, with touches of wood and juicy fruit, longer depth than 
expected. +343426, $17.95, QPR: 89.
8. Vinas Elias Mora 2008 Toro: 14.5% ABV, will be better next year but 
compelling now. Tempranillo that was aged a half-year in new US oak, 
bottled unfiltered. +209650, $18.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Blackstone Sonoma Reserve Chardonnay 2007, +128926, $22.95.
2. Grgich Hills Fume Blanc 2009 Biodynamic Napa, +346296, $29.95
3. Andre & Edmond Figeat Les Chaumiennes Pouilly-Fume 2009, +196659, 
$21.95.
4. Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Napa, +222877, $69.95.
5. Fuse Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Napa, +214817, $32.95.
6. Josef Chromy Pinot Noir 2009 Tasmania, +163022, $27.95.
7. Carrick Pinot Noir 2007 Central Otago, +919837, $34.95.
8. Chateau Chantemerle 2006 Medoc, +198986, $21.95.
9. Chateau Saint-Andre Corbin 2008 St-Georges-St-Emilion, +43810, 
$21.95.
10. Fattoria La Ripa Chianti Classico Riserva 2006 Organic, +984401, 
$26.95.
11. Allegrini La Grola 2006 IGT Veronese, +476598, $27.95.
12. Ontanon Reserva 2004 Rioja, +725895, $24.95.





WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR APRIL 2, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Pelee Island Winery Vendange Tardive Pinot Gris 2008 VQA Pelee 
Island: dynamite focused almond and apricot flavours, late picked for 
that off-dry character, concentrated body, unctuous. Well-priced, buy 
it all. +0224196, $16.95, QPR: 92.
2. St. Lucas Torrontes 2010 Mendoza: the aromatic grape of Toronto! 
Modest price for great fruit value. Where pinot gris should be, but 
isn’t. +694513, $11.95, QPR: 90.
2. Arboleda Chardonnay 2008 Casablanca: good balance of fruit-oak-acid. 
Long finish, full bodied. +606772, $15.95, QPR: 90.
3. Chateau La Grave D’Arzac Blanc 2009 Graves: all Semillon, fabulous 
texture and body, great fruit on palate, some sizzle on the finish for 
food. +206714, $14.95, QPR: 90.
4. San Felice Perolla Vermentino 2009 IGT Maremma Toscana: soft, 
forward, melons and citrus tones, thick body. I drank a lot of 
vermentino during my three months on the Riviera. +222802, $15.95, QPR: 
91.
 
TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Kaiken Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Mendoza: juicy and chewy, Euro 
flavours are all there. +143248, $14.95, QPR: 90.
2. Errazuriz Single Vineyard Syrah 2008 Don Maximiano Estate Aconacagua 
Valley: dynamite, full blown syrah component of character complementary 
flavours. +211938, $19.95, QPR: 90.
3. Chateau Bellevue 2006 1er Cotes de Blaye: almost ready, MVC good 
Bordeaux, lay down one year (will get better if you wait). +206649, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
4. Chateau La Verriere 2008 Bordeaux Superieur: fabulous price for a 
Gold Medal winner, give it two years more, good investment. +199000, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
5. Roux Pere et Fils Cote de Beaune-Villages 2009: MVC for the region, 
needs a bit of time (not before Christmas 2011) but all the burgundian 
pinot tones are there. 13% ABV. +208520, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6. Barba Vignafranca Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2006: flavours galore from 
this occasionally pussy-wussy grape variety. 13.5% ABV. +203984, 
$17.95, QPR: 90.
7. Tommasi Arele Appassimento 2008 IGT Veronese: the Ripasso-style wine 
flavour of the month from the LCBO. +224188, $17.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Freestone Vineyards Ovation Chardonnay 2007 Sonoma Coast, +210302, 
$39.95 retail.
2. Domaine Roux Pere et Fils Les Chaumes Chassagne-Montrachet 2009, 
+208512, $38.95.
3. Michael David Petite Petit 2008 Lodi, +213017, $24.95.
4. Paul Hobbs Crossbarn Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, +118695, $34.95.
5. Saltram Mamre Brook Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Barossa, +48579, $24.95.
6. Domaine Daniel Rion Les Lavieres Nuits-Saint-Georges 2008, +208454, 
$47.95.
7. Domaine Gille Cotes de Nuits-Villages 2008, +210864, $24.95.
8. Maison Roche de Bellene Beaune-Bressandes 1er Cru 2008, +208504, 
$47.95.
9. San Cassiano Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006, +210799, $38.95. 
10. Chateau Musar 2002 Bekaa Valley, +109413, $51.95.




WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MARCH 19, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Clos du Bois Chardonnay 2009 North Coast: a steady restaurant wine, 
balanced with flavours of tropicality, wood and citric finish. Sipper 
of food wine. +124867, $18.95, QPR: 90. 
2. Lone Kauri Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: great 
expression, both ripe and unripe fruit, underbrush, herbs, and finish. 
+138974, $14.95, QPR: 90.
3. Caves de la Tourangelle Grande Reserve Touraine 2009: Savvy value, 
good depth and fine finish. +196733, $14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Studert-Prum Riesling Kabinett 2009 Mosel: good body, depth, well-
made off-dry. +970129, $18.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Kacaba Proprietor’s Blend Cabernet 2005 VQA Niagara Escarpment: good 
blend of both cabernets, merlot and syrah, 13% ABV. Well-tuned and 
nicely aged. +223974, $143.95, QPR: 89.
2. Gnarly Head Gnarlier Head Sommer Vineyard Old Vine Zin 2006 Dry 
Creek Valley: sweet on mid-palate, dry on finish. Loaded with 
character. Whopping 15.5% ABV. +212795, $19.95, QPR: 90.
3. Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot 2006 Columbia Valley: a 
restaurant wine, finely aged, ripe 13.5% ABV. +263418, $15.95, QPR: 89.
4. Chateau Bel Air 2008 Haut-Medoc: MVC decent Bordeaux with a dollop 
of chocolate. Keep a year more. +199042, $16.95, QPR: 90.
5. Alfiere Rosso Merlot 2007 Friuli: tasty but tart finish needs food, 
merlot complexity. 12.5% ABV. +204024, $16.95, QPR: 89.
6. Banfi Centine 2008 IGT Toscana: smooth, ready now, 13.5%. Affordable 
SuperTuscan blend of sangiovese, cab sauv and merlot. +947440, $16.95, 
QPR: 90.
7. Spiaggiole Morellino di Scansano 2008 Tuscany: very Italianate in 
taste, affordable black and blue berries, long, long length after a 
fruity palate. +203398, $15.95, QPR: 91.
8. Lealtanza Reserva Seleccion 2004 Rioja: and older treat, nicely 
stewed fruit, 13.5% ABV. +208223, $17.95, QPR: 90.
9. Bod. Abanico Eternum Viti 2008 Toro: full and ripe, lots of vinous 
activity on the palate, with complexity to be resolved on the finish. 
+210963, $18.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Beringer Private Reserve Chardonnay 2008 Napa, +26682, $44.95 retail
2. Hamilton Russell Chardonnay 2009 WO Hemel-en-Aarde Valley South 
Africa, +931006, $29.95.
3. Domaine de Riaux Pouilly-Fume 2009, +200063, $22.95.
4. Beringer Bancroft Ranch Single Vineyard Merlot 2005 Howell Mountain 
Napa, +340497, $69.95.
5. Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Napa, +670463, 
$134.95.
5. The Foundry Syrah 2005 WO Coastal Region South Africa, +613331, 
$29.95.
6. La Crau de ma Mere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, +941740, $46.95.
7. Terre Nere Brunello di Montalcino 2005, +208462, $34.95.
8. Sartori Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006, +85217, $37.95.
9. Arroyo Reserva 2005 Ribera del Duero, +215715, $20.95.
10. Vina Mayor Reserva 2004 Ribera del Duero, +209155, $25.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MARCH 5, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Fog Head Highlands Reserve Chardonnay 2009 Monterey County Highland 
Series: a restaurant-styled wine, initially floral then fruity, toasty 
and vanilla finish. Off-dry on the mid-palate. More a sipper. 13.5% 
ABV. +158568, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Amaral Cool Climate Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Leyda Valley Chile: 
minerality and citric tones (mainly lime, maybe rangpur as well) along 
with modal character of grass and herbs, long long finish, fairly young 
vines. 14.5% ABV. Gold Medalist. +48025, $14.95, QPR: 91.
3. Thelema Sutherland Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Elgin South Africa: some 
floral quality, along with minerals and food-length finish. 13% ABV. 
+203877, $13.95, QPR: 90.
4. Willy Gisselbrecht Tradition Pinot Gris 2008 Alsace: off-dry palate, 
spicy body, dense, finishes dry. +641597, $16.95, QPR: 90.
5. Chateau de la Greffiere Macon-La Roche Vineuse 2009: ripe, dense, 
mandarin orange flavours. 13% ABV. Gold Medalist. Bargain price. 
+205898, $14.95, QPR: 90.
TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Beringer Zinfandel 2006 Lake County: impressive for under $20. Ready 
next year, deep, dark and delicious. Unctuous, even. 14.5% ABV. 
+953596, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Cline Los Carneros Syrah 2006 Sonoma County: very spicy and 
reminiscent of Northern Rhone, some age behind it at this point. 
+955435, $17.95, QPR: 90
3. Santa Carolina Reserva de Familia Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Maipo: 
concentrated flavours of chocolate, pepper. A year in French oak. First 
class cabernet sauvignon. 14.5% ABV. +684597, $15, QPR: 91.
4. Henry’s Drive Pillar Box Reserve Shiraz 2008 Padthaway South 
Australia: tight, lean, concentrated black fruit. Peppery and herby. 
15% ABV. +90324, $19.95, QPR: 90.
5. Chateau Haut-Cantiroy 2008 Graves: good development, maturing 
nicely, earthy, smooth finish. +205559, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6. Chateau Hyot 2006 Cotes de Castillon: red fruit, merlot-driven, 
great price, 12.5% ABV, gold medalist. +63537, $14.95, QPR: 90.
7. Mas des Bressades Cuvee Tradition 2009 Costieres de Nimes: syrah 
really comes through, tarry, anise, mocha, good price. 13.5% ABV. 
+143099, $14.95, QPR: 90.
8. Vecchia Cantina Terre di Rubinoro Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2006: 
nicely aged, nicely done. It has been awhile since the LCBO has had a 
modestly priced VNM. +206862, $17.95, QPR: 89.
7. Tabali Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Limari Valley: concentrated 
flavours, lovely development, great price. +58446, $14.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Charles Baker Picone Vineyard Riesling 2008 VQA Vinemount Ridge 
Niagara, +126433, $35.20 retail.
2. Rodney Strong Reserve Chardonnay 2007 Russian River Sonoma County, 
+210039, $34.95.
3. Astrolabe Voyage Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough, +10421, $21.95.
4. Gautheron Chablis 2008, +207902, $22.95.
5. Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Riesling Spatlese 2008 QmP Wehlener Sonnenuhr, 
+197186, $21.95.
6. Ridge Santa Cruz Mountains Estate 2006, +89284, $44.95.
7. Rodney Strong Merlot 2006 Sonoma County, +497933, $22.95.
8. Calera Pinot Noir 2008 Central Coast, +933044, $32.95.
9. Two Hands Lily’s Garden Shiraz 2008 McLaren Vale South Australia, 
+683086, $54.95.
10. Selection Laurence Feraud Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, +211474, 
$42.95.
11. Marques de Murrieta Finca Ygay Reserva 2005 Rioja, +209148, $24.95. 







WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR  FEBRUARY 19, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Calamus Unoaked Chardonnay 2008 Niagara: juicy, ripe, long finish. 
Twist top. +210062, $13.95, QPR: 90.
2. Alamos Viognier 2010 Mendoza: plenty of orchard fruit and flowers 
here, long fruity finish. +507830, $13.95, QPR: 90.
3. Emiliana Adobe Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Casablanca Valley: ripe peachy 
flavours come across with the citrus-herby zest. Sipper? Organic wine. 
+211912, $12.95, QPR: 89.
4. Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: zesty, balanced, long 
finish, enjoyable Loire-ish wine. Sip or with food. Gold Medalist. 
+686675, $15.95, QPR: 90.
5. Domaine Saint-Remy reserve Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: a climate-
change wine, with more off-dry MVC for the variety. Slight bitterish 
finish, but dense and concentrated flavours and body. +61150, $18.95, 
QPR: 91.
6. Domaines Schlumberger Les Princes Abbes Riesling 2007 Alsace: long 
riesling finish with good MVC. Delightful. Best with food. +981662, 
$18.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Ironstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 California: a rock-steady value 
wine, hitting all the California cabby notes. +537597, $17.95, QPR: 89.
2. Michel Torino Don David Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Cafayate 
Valley Mendoza: high quality cab sauvignon (black currants, vanilla, 
pepper) at this price. +974428, $12.95, QPR: 89.
3. Cathedral Cellar Triptych 2007 WO Coast Region South Africa: a value 
blend of Bordeaux varieties with syrah, aged in new oak (on the nose), 
mocha, cassis, and eucalyptus. +53124, $16.95, QPR: 90.
4. Chateau Saint-Roch Chimeres 2008 Cotes du Roussillon-Villages: 65 
grenache/30 syrah/5 carignane blend, 14.5% ABV, off-dry finish. Late 
winter BBQs?
5. Chateau Goudray Cuvee Excellence Rasteau 2009 Cotes du Rhone-
Villages: lovely black fruit from syrah and grenache, plums, smoke, and 
the like. 14.5% ABV. Gold Medalist. +195032, $15.95, QPR: 90.
6. Louis Bernard Reserve de Bonpas Cotes du Rhone 2009: a G-S-M but 
heavy syrah-inflected in flavours, 14% ABV. +194969, $13.95, QPR: 90.
7. Tommasi Poggio al Tufo Rompicollo 2008 IGT Maremma Toscana: lots of 
black and dark flavours from berries and fruits, delicious length and 
complexity. Italianate. +13755, $17.95, QPR: 90.
8. Herdade Paco do Conde 2007 Alentejano: lots of mocha but not off-dry 
on mid-palate. Sip or food this treasure. +131821, $14.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Lailey Vineyard Canadian Oak Chardonnay 2009 Niagara River, +225474, 
$24.95 retail.
2. Davis Bynum Chardonnay 2007 Russian River Valley, +205815, $24.95.
3. Domaine Masson-Blondelet Villa Paulus Pouilly-Fume 2008, +702878, 
$24.95.
4. Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate Proprietors’ Grand Reserve Shiraz 
2006, +33241, $24.95.
5. Candor Lot 2 Zinfandel California, +133389, $21.95.
6. Christian Moueix Napanook 2007 Napa, +212357, $53.95.
7. Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz 2005, +528356, 
$51.95.
8. Abbazia Barolo 2005, +189787, $28.95.
9. Zenato Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, +413179, $47.95.
10. Jean Leon Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Penedes, +401596, $28.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR FEBRUARY 5, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. 
My "Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Calina Chardonnay Reserva 2009 Casablanca/Limari Valleys: tropical 
fruit and lumber for the woodies, nice balance, great sipper. +640912, 
$15.95, QPR: 89.
2. Zilzie Murray Darling Regional Collection Chardonnay 2009 Victoria: 
loaded with goodness, oak, whiff of tropicality, toast-butter-vanilla. 
Decent price. +186411, $17.95, QPR: 90.
3. La Cave de Sigolsheim Reserve Particuliere Muscat 2008 Alsace: dry 
muscat tones, excellent body, flowers and orchard fruit. Gold Medalist. 
+202408, $15.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Diamond Ridge Zinfandel 2007 Howell Mountain Napa: balanced and 
well-integrated MVC zinfandel complexity, good price. +205781, $17.95, 
QPR: 90.
2. Our Daily Red 2009 California: very good basic blended red wine, 
reminiscent of the South of France. Fully Organic. +203851, $14.95, 
QPR: 89.
3. Columbia Crest H3 Merlot 2007 Horse Heaven Hills Columbia Valley: 
hefty, chunky merlot featuring both red and black berries, drying out 
nicely on the finish. 14.5% ABV. +209874, $19.95, QPR: 89.
4. R.J. Vinedos Pasion 4 Merlot 2008 Uco Valley Mendoza: North American 
styled merlot, with mocha and smoke, black currants, long finish. 
+59287, $12.95, QPR: 90.
5. Wyndham Estate George Wyndham Founder’s Reserve Shiraz 2007 
Langhorne Creek: deliciously black (mocha, berries, eucalyptus), wood 
on finish. Needs food. 14% ABV. +107904, $19.95, QPR: 90.
6. Chateau Le Grand Moulin 2008 Premieres Cotes de Blaye: an MVC 
Bordeaux bargain for a Gold Medalist. Smoke, toast, black fruit, 
complex finish. +198994, $15.95, QPR: 90.
7. Domaine de Peyanne 2009 Saumur: good cab franc MVC, nice and tart 
for food, some berries on the nose. +197038, $13.95, QPR: 89.
8. Domaine Gardies Mas Las Cabes Rouge 2009 Cotes de Roussillon: rich, 
developing, balance of fruit, hot 14% ABV, lots of dense body. +194894, 
$15.95, QPR: 89.
9. Diego Conterno Baluma Nebbiolo d’Alba 2008: poor man’s Barolo, but 
see also below at $26.95. Evolving nicely. +189829, $18.95, QPR: 89.
10. Tenuta Moraia Pietracupa Bolgheri 2007: cabernet makes this a 
Bordeaux-styled wine, extremely beneficial price, long finish. +211458, 
$18.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Jean-Max Roger Cuvee C.M. Sancerre Blanc 2008, +196667, $24.95 
retail.
2. Maison Kerlann Chablis 2008, +158964, $21.95.
3. Frog’s Leap Merlot 2007 Rutherford Napa, +707489, $44.95.
4. Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Sonoma, +226944, $22.95.
5. Elderton Shiraz 2007 Barossa, +713024, $32.95.
6. Chateau Reysson 2005 Haut-Medoc, +199083, $21.95.
7. Abbona La Pieve Barolo 2005, +213132, $26.95.
8. Brancaia Tre 2007 IGT Toscana, +164715, $24.95.
9. Icario Vino Nobile di Monepulciano 2007, +203430, $31.95.
10. Isole e Olena Chianti Classico 2007, +704346, $26.95.
11. I Casteil Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2006, +739979, $34.95
12. Vina Vilano Reserva 2004 Ribera del Duero, +190736, $22.95.
13. Bodegas Lan Vina Lanciano Reserva 2004, +955096, $28.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JANUARY 22, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Clos du Bois Sauvignon Blanc 2009 North Coast California: warm Cal 
style, inviting, toned down grassiness, restaurant wine. +146258, 
$17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Folie a Deux Menage a Trois Chardonnay 2008 California: rich Cal 
style, finishes a bit clove-y, vanilla and butter side of oak. +158592, 
$18.95, QPR: 90.
3. Vina Casablanca El Bosque Chardonnay 2008 Casablanca: baked apple 
nose, some caramel, Burgundian, food-driven lemon taste, long finish. 
+208389, $14.95, QPR: 91.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Trentadue Old Patch Red 2006 North Coast California: 46% zinfandel, 
35% petite sirah, 12% carignan, 5% sangiovese, 2% syrah. Best for BBQ 
on your frozen patio/balcony. +686709, $15.95, QPR: 89.
2. Staccato Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Mendoza: organic, 60% 
Malbec, dark fruit and spices, finishes best with food. +19660, $12.95, 
QPR: 90.
3. Morande Reserva Pinot Noir 2008 Casablanca Valley: good pinot snap 
and tartness, old world style MVC Burgundian. +59428, $14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Winery of Good Hope Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2009 WO Stellenbosch: 
14% ABV. Mounds of fruit with sufficient finishing acid makes this a 
swinger between sip and food. Great value. +8748, $11.95, QPR: 91.
5. Chateau de Nages Reserve 2009 Costieres de Nimes: gutsy and spicy, 
red fruit, enlivened finish. Some garrigue. +427617, $14.95, QPR: 90.
6. Domaine de la Bastide Cuvee Les Figues Cotes du Rhone 2009: great 
blend of syrah-grenache-carignan, North American appeal with juiciness, 
but some refreshing tartness. +194852, $13.95, QPR: 90.
7. Cantine Nicosia Fondo Filara Nero d’Avola 2008 IGT Sicilia: berries 
and mocha, plus herbs. Oaky with a lighter but sufficient acidic 
finish. +207811, $15.95, QPR: 89.
8. Sartori L’Appassito Rosso 2008 IGT Veneto: wonderful intensity of 
dried fruit and spices, good backbone for food. +193607, $18.95, QPR: 
90.
9. Casa de Santar Red 2007 Dao: dark fruit, cedary, leafy, unfiltered, 
long finish, 13.5% ABV. +190710, $14.95, QPR: 89.
10. Casa de Illana Tresdecinco 2004 Ribera del Jucar: North American 
style blend of syrah, cab sauv ands merlot, fresh lumber notes, off-dry 
on the palate, fruity finish. +190702, $15.95, QPR: 89.
11. Vinos Sin-Ley Traza Gra 2 2008 Rioja: 100% Graciano. Berry 
flavours, spices which persist on the finish, good adequate body. 
Unoaked. Where is Gra 1 (the cooler climate version)? +190819, $16.95, 
QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Cedrick Bardin Pouilly-Fume 2009, +202416, $21.95 retail.
2. Markus Molitor Riesling Spatlese 2008 QmP Haus Klostergerg, +189613, 
$22.95.
3. Mission Hill SLC Merlot 2005 Okanagan, +68353, $34.95.
4. Clos du Bois Sonoma Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Alexander Valley 
Sonoma, +54080, $24.95.
5. M and D Phillips Earthquake Zinfandel 2007 Lodi, +59717, $39.95.
6. Clos du Calvaire Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, +728139, $36.95.
7. Perrin & Fils La Gille Gigondas 2007, +906073, $26.95.
8. Rocca Delle Macie Chianti Classico Riserva 2006, +930966, $21.95, 
QPR: 90.
9. Burgo Viejo Gran Reserva 2000 Rioja, +190611, $21.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JANUARY 8, 2011
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Peninsula Ridge Barrel Aged Chardonnay 2009 VQA Niagara: very good 
consistency, MVC for Ontario chard, nice price for an oaked toasty 
wine. +211490, $14.95, QPR: 90.
2. Cline Viognier 2009 North Coast California: dry version, with plenty 
of honeysuckle perfume, 13.5% ABV. +128421, $14.95, QPR: 90.
3. Dominio del Plata Crios de Susana Balbo Torrontes 2009 Calchaquiles 
Valley: good aromatic sipper, twist top, 13.5% ABV. +1834, $11.95, QPR: 
89.
4. Cave Vinicole Kientzheim-Keyserberg Anne Boecklin Pinot Gris Reserve 
2007 Alsace: off-dry in mid-palate, intense fruit, Gold Medalist 
(Paris). +106831, $18.95, QPR: 90.
5. Cave Vinicole du Vieil Armand Riesling 2007 Alsace: Gold Medalist in 
Alsace, extremely rip and unctuous, MVC. +205807, $15.95, QPR: 90.
6. Chateau Les Bertrands Cuvee Tradition 2009 Blaye Cotes de Bordeaux: 
Gold Medal (Paris), slightly off-dry citric complexity, good herbs too, 
15% muscadelle for aromatics. +190967, $14.95, QPR: 90.
7. Domaine Bellevue Sauvignon Blanc Touraine 2009: the Loire Savvy 
wines keep coming, very good SB complexity, grass, stone fruit, citrus, 
needs food. +82305, $12.95, QPR: 90.
8. Les Costieres de Pomerols Beauvignac Viognier 2009 VdP d’Oc: 
aromatic, food or sip, priced to sell. MVC. +525295, $12.95, QPR: 89.
9. Pfeffingen Gewurztraminer Spatlese 2008 Pfalz: off-dry food wine for 
heavy cabbage-based and fatty foods, 11.5% ABV. +211417, $19.95, QPR: 
89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Sumptuary Zinfandel 2007 Amador County: very good quality (oak, 
black fruit, mocha). Load up!! +203869, $15.95, QPR: 90.
2. La Posta Pizzella Family Vineyard Malbec 2008 Uco Mendoza: 
associated with the Catenas. Fine value for berries and fig jam. 
+166298, $15, QPR: 90.
3. Majella The Musician Cabernet/Shiraz 2008 Coonawarra: delicious 
balance of fruit and wood, 14.5% ABV. +142018, $19.95, QPR: 89.
4. Fairview Shiraz 2008 WO Coastal Region South Africa: delicious, good 
backbone for black fruit and mocha and underbrush. Affordable to load 
up. +626358, $14.95, QPR: 91.
5. Chateau La Fleur Terrien 2008 Lussac-Saint-Emilion: North American 
style of bright fruit, merlot-based (70%). Enjoy now. +199059, $15, 
QPR: 90.
6. Chateau de Gourgazaud Cuvee Mathilde 2008 Minervois: garrigue, 
mocha, black currants. +958629, $14.95, QPR: 89.
7. Tolloy Pinot Noir 2008 IGT Alto Adige: one of the best modestly 
priced pinots I’ve had. Open in advance, decant once. +193441, $15.95, 
QPR: 90.
8. Produttori di Govone Barbaresco 2006: light but okay nebbiolo wine, 
MVC for the region, great price. +119503, $19.95, QPR: 91.
9. Bodegas Palacio Glorioso Crianza 2006 Rioja: Gold Medalist at 
Bruxelles. Hard to find a more excellent MVC Rioja value at this price 
level. +340844, $15.95, QPR: 91.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Chateau St. Jean Belle Terre Vineyard Chardonnay 2007 Alexander 
Valley Sonoma, +987131, $34.95 retail. 
2. Dante Rivetti Bric co Riserva Barbaresco 2004, +208264, $46.95.
3. Neirano Barolo 2005, +994327, $25.95.
4. Renzo Masi Fattoria di Basciano Chianti Rufina Riserva 2006, 
+209478, $25.95.
5. Piccini Villa al Cortile Riserva Brunello di Montalcino 2004, 
+205724, $42.95.
6. Corte Majoli Amarone della Valpolicella 2006, +56267, $32.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR DECEMBER 11, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Anne Boecklin Reserve Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: Gold medalist 
shows some good dynamics, off-dry, solid contender, 13.5% ABV. +141226, 
$17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Vincent Lacombe Bourgogne Vieilles Vignes Chardonnay 2009: a good 
basic MVC from burgundy, 13% ABV, well-worth the money. +185645, 
$18.95, QPR: 90.
3. Bougrier Signature Vouvray 2009: an original aromatic wine from 
Chenin Blanc grapes, shows both orchard and stone fruit. +106880, 
$13.95, QPR: 89.
4. McManis Family Vineyards Viognier 2009 California: very juicy, 
upfront but developing still, stainless steel. 13.5% ABV. +658112, 
$19.95, QPR: 89.
5. Cooper Creek SV The Limeworks Chardonnay 2008 Hawkes Bay: one for 
the woodies, needs balancing. +179804, $19.95, QPR: 89.
6. Eikendal Vineyards Reserve Chardonnay 2008 WO Stellenbosch: 14% ABV, 
MVC, and wood in balance, vanilla. Expressive. +984773, $18.95, QPR: 
90.


TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Château de Gourgazaud Reserve 2006 Minervois: needs more time to 
evolve, but the potential is there as a sort-of combo Bordeaux and 
Rhone wine (with the fruit, anyway). Value. +986083, $17.95, QPR; 90.
2. De Martino Legado Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Maipo: good 
varietal character, wood tones. The three Cs: complicated, 
concentrated, and currently drinking. +205674, $14.95, QPR: 90.
3. Domenico Filippino Nebbiolo 2007 Langhe: great version of a light 
Barolo, aged nicely, 13.5% ABV. Long finish. +184952, $15.95, QPR: 91.
4. Juan Gil White Label de Cepas Viejas Monastrell 2009 Jumilla: some 
undergrowth, fungal quality shines, toasty, full and warm. +13656, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
5. Bodegas Terras Gauda Pittacum Barrica 2006 Bierzo: black fruit, some 
Spanish garrigue tones, soft finish. 60 year old vines. 14.5% ABV. 
+190751, $18.95, QPT: 90.
6. Vina Vilanco Crianza 2006 Ribero del Duero: the highlight of the 
month, great price, buy it! Delicious, toasty wood, jump-up fruit of 
Tempranillo at MVC consistency. +190777, $14.95, QPR: 93.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Cliff Lede Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Napa, +675025, $29.95 retail.
2. Fog Crest Chardonnay 2006 Russian River Valley, +211292, $47.95.
3. Domaine Marteket de Cherisey Meursault-Blagny La Genelotte 1er Cru 
2007, +206250, $74.95
4. Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis Montmains 1er cru 2008, +983882, $33.95.
5. Domaine Besancenot Beaune Clos du Roi 1er Cru 2006, +183772, $32.95.
6. Domaine Chante Cigale Tradition Chateauneuf du Pape 2007, +194993, 
$37.95.
7. Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Napa, +149955, 
$119.95.
8. Corte Riva Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Napa/Sonoma County blend, +89318, 
$77.95.
9. Trapiche Fausto Orellana de Escobar Single Vineyard Malbec 2007 
Mendoza, +178145, $39.95.
10. Gemma Giblin Riserva Barolo 2001, +185025, $37.95.
11. Il Poggione Riserva Vigna Paganelli Brunello di Montalcino 2003, 
+198416, $59.95.
12. Baron de Ley Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +642496, $29.95.




WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR NOVEMBER 27, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Santa Rita Medalla Real Chardonnay 2008 Limari: ripe, balanced 
flavours, a bit of a clove finish. +303628, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Charton & Trebuchet Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes de Beaune 2009 Les 
Grandes Vignes: from 30-year old vines, quality production, lots of 
flavour and finish. Best with food. At this price, load up. +183673, $18.95,
QPR: 91.
3. Zenato Lugana 2009 San Benedetto Lombardia: quality aperitif wine – 
aromatic beginning, body on the palate, citrus finish. +707158, $13.95, 
QPR: 90.
4. Feudi Della Medusa Albithia Vermentino di Sardegna 2006: very dense 
and spectacular concentration for a white. Lush palate, finishes 
slightly bitter (stone pits). +199224, $17.95, QPR: 91.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Louis Martini Ghost Pines Winemaker’s Blend Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 
Napa/Sonoma: delicious California explosive intensity, 59% from Napa, 
balance Sonoma. Delivers value. +135376, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Winesmith Planet Pluto Meritage 2006 California: another delicious 
California restaurant wine, hits all the right buttons (45% cab sauv, 
44% cab franc, 11% merlot). +205195, $18.95, QPR: 90.
3. Domaine La Bouscade Old Vine Carignan 2007: good depth of flavours 
of black fruit, best with food. +78758, $16.95, QPR: 90.
4. Fattoria Dei Barbi Brusco dei Barbi 2007 IGT Toscana: wine left on 
lees for two months, 13.5% ABV, full and demanding palate, heavy foods 
needed to deal with tannins. +673160, $13.95, QPR: 89.
5. Monte Zovo Palazzo Mafei Ripasso 2007 Veneto: thick flavours, MVC 
for the style, good fruit, berry character, value-priced. +183426, 
$13.95, QPR: 90.
6. Valpantena Torre del Falasco Ripasso Valpolicella 2008: full, ripe, 
off-dry plumminess. +642421, $15.95, QPR: 89.
7. Del Jalon Altos Las Pizarras 2005 Catalunya: delicious grenache old 
vine stock, 14% ABV, all new French oak. +194746, $18.95, QPR: 89.
8. Mahler-Besse Taja Gran Reserva 2003 Jumilla: richly aged like a 
Bordeaux (tobacco leaf, mocha, cherries, long length). +539148, $18.95, 
QPR: 90.
9. Shottesbrooke Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 McLaren Vale: fruit is 
Californian, and at 14.5% ABV packs a punch. Firm and dense. +198275, 
$19.95, QPR: 89.
10. Jean-Claude Fromont Bourgogne 2009: bargain-priced pinot noir, MVC 
for the region, fits profile. +199521, $17.95. QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Hidden Bench Estate Chardonnay 2007 Beamsville VQA, +68817, $35.20 
retail.
2. Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Chardonnay 2008 VQA Niagara, 
+33936, $25.
3. Peninsula Ridge Fume Blanc 2008 VQA Niagara, +8102, $24.95
4. Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Riesling Spatlese 2003 Scharzhofberger, 
+712471, $21.95.
5. Malivoire Pinot Noir 2007 Beamsville Organic, +996777, $39.95.
6. Beringer Merlot 2006 Napa, +919647, $29.95
7. Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Napa, +936039, $119.95
8. Chateau Haut-Bages Liberal 2003 Pauillac, +190355, $54.95
9. Chateau Reignac 2008 Bordeaux Superieur, +192682, $24.95
10. Domaine Fleurot Nuits-St-Georges 2007, +185728, $44.95
11. Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2007 IGT Toscana, +727636, $31.95
12. Quintarelli Rosso Ca’del Merlo 2001 IGT Veneto, +958595, $83.95
13. Castillo de Sajazarra Solar de Libano Reserva 2004 DOCa Rioja, 
+190587, $22.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR NOVEMBER 13, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Chateau des Charmes Chardonnay Musque 2008 VQA NOTL: floral supper 
laced with orange and peach grapey muscat tones, clone 809, use with 
white meats\. 13% ABV. +640516, $16.95, QPR: 90.
2. Flat Rock Cellars Nadia’s Vineyard Riesling 2009 VQA Twenty Mile 
Bench Niagara: gold medalist, great Germanic MVC of lime, peach, 
minerals. +578625, $19.95, QPR: 90.
3. Kenwood Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Sonoma: uplifting mix of grass and 
fresh floral fruit, longer finish for food. +971754, $16.95, QPR: 89.
4. Tabali Reserva Especial Chardonnay 2008 Limari: Burgundian MVC at a 
lower level, good intense nuttiness and longer finish. +663005, $18.95, 
QPR: 89.
5. Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: a personal fave 
of mine, concentrated MVC for the sauvignon blanc grape. Buy it. 
+677450, $19.95, QPR: 90. 
6. Schoenheitz Linsenberg Riesling 2007 Alsace: made from what the LCBO 
labeled as RIELSING in their catalogue, but we know it as Riesling – 
and a damn good one to. +196618, $17.95, QPR: 89.
7. Collefrisio Zero Trebbiano d’Abruzzo 2008: an organic fruity wine, 
with pineapple (and its acid), peaches and apricots. +181164, $13.95, 
QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cantina Terre del Barolo Vinum Vita Est Nebbiolo d’Alba 2007: 
bargain knock-off of a lighter Barolo (same grape), plums and roses. We 
need more of these in Ontario. +181461, $15.95, QPR: 90.
2. Chateau Signac Cuvee Combe D’Enfer Cotes du Rhone-Villages Chusclan 
2007: smoke, minerals, and garrigue – what more do you want? +184226, 
$18.95, QPR: 90. 
3. Julian Chivite Gran Feudo Vinas Viejas Reserva 2005 Navarra: lovely 
black fruit of cassis, plums, and oaky vanilla. +948067, $19.95, QPR: 
89.
4. Raimat Abadia Crianza 2007 Costers del Segre: I used to buy this by 
the case about 20 years ago when it was $6.20. The price has doubled 
over time but the cab-merlot flavours (tempered by tempranillo, of 
course) aged in US oak remains unbeatable. +935460, $14.95, QPR: 92.
5. First Press Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Napa: aromatic youth, chocolate 
and black fruit, drink with food, or lay down a year or more. +188110, 
$19.95, QPR: 89.
6. Joffre e Hijas Grand Malbec Uco Mendoza: more oak, plums, 
blackberries and chocolate. +183889, $15.95, QPR: 89.
7. Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Maipo: 
minty menthol, but smooth finish with black fruit. +275594, $19.95, 
QPR: 89.
8. Café Culture Pinotage 2009 WO Western Cape: roasted coffee beans 
dominate aromas and taste. Useful. +72710, $13.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Stratus White 2007 VQA NOTL, +660704, $44.20 retail.
2. Mission Hill SLC Chardonnay 2006 VQA Okanagan, +144170, $24.95.
3. Frog’s Leap Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Rutherford Napa Valley, 966036, 
$27.95.
4. Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Napa, +718452, $51.95.
5. Brooks Pinot Noir 2009 Willamette [organic], +186882, $44.95.
6. Bodegas Callia Winemaker’s Reserve Grand Callia 2006, +175661, 
$34.95.
7. Montes Purple Angel 2007 Colchagua, +62364, $49.95.
8. Barossa Valley Estate Ebenezer Cabernet Sauvignon 2004, +39537, 
$39.95.
9. Remoissenet Meursault 2007 Cuvee Maurice Chevalier, +36079, $54.95.
10. E. Guigal Gigondas 2006, +331900, $27.95.
11. Frescobaldi Castelgiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2005, +650432, 
$49.95.
12. Luce Della Vite Luce 2007 IGT Toscana, +685263, $99.95.
13. Ornellaia Le Volte 2008 IGT Toscana, +964221, $28.95.
14. Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez Tinto Pesquera Crianza 2007 Ribera del 
Duero, +341461, $27.95.
15. Miguel Torres Mas La Plana Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Penedes, 
+129676, $44.95.

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR OCTOBER 30, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Strewn Terroir SV French Oak Chardonnay 2007 VQA Niagara Lakeshore: 
broad oak-based flavours (spices, toast, vanilla), some tropicality. 
Finishes soft and fruity. +189589, $19.95, QPR: 89.
2. Babich Black Label Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: partly softened 
by barrel fermentation of a portion, complex, crisp, rich. +9142, 
$17.95.
3. Jean Geiler Gewurztraminer 2009 Alsace: off-dry mouthfeel, 
delightful balance of MVC, good bitterness on the finish. +106864, 
$16.95, QPR: 90.
4. P. Perdriaux Domaine de Vaugondy Vouvray Sec 2007: appley, soft 
finish, best with food. Well-made chenin blanc. +189142, $14.95, QPR: 
89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Hedges Cellars CMS 2008 Columbia Valley Washington State: finely 
textured, ready now, black berries and long length. +948992, $17.95, 
QPR: 90.
2. Nieto Senetiner Don Nicanor Blend 2007 Mendoza: described by one 
reviewer as a Mendocino blend (whatever that is), juicy, long length, 
black fruit. 13.5% ABV. +640938, $17.95, QPR: 89.
3. Fincas Patagonicas Zolo Classic Malbec 2009 Mendoza: juicy lucy 
style wine, long but hot finish. 13.8% ABV. +183905, $12.95, QPR: 89.
4. Luis Felipe Edwards Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Colchagua: 
delicious black fruit, wood tones, good finish. 14% ABV. Buy a lot of 
it. +169847, $16.95, QPR: 90.
5. Teillery Reserve Shiraz 2006 Maipo: very intense, dry and duty 
fruit, best with fatty foods. +171454, $15.95, QPR: 89.
6. Angove’s Nine Vines Shiraz/Viognier 2009 South Australia: juicy, up 
front fruit really leaps out at you. +191668, $15.95, QPR: 89.
7. Henry’s Drive Pillar Box Red 2007 Padthaway: delivers a lot of 
complex flavours at an affordable price. Twist top, 15% ABV! +685941, 
$15, QPR: 90.
8. Domaine Zumbaum Tomasi Clos Maginiai Pic Saint-Loup 2007 Coteaux du 
Languedoc: magnanimous wine, dark fruit and dark berries, coming around 
soon, maybe after Christmas. +185868, $18.95, QPR: 89.
9. Feudi San Pio Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2007: very good Ripasso 
with MVC, very aromatic, plush and fruity. 14% ABV. +181446, $15.95, 
QPR: 90.
10. Mahler-Besse Taja Reserva 2005 Jumilla: delicious sipper or food 
wine, balanced blend of oak and fruit from Monastrell, Tempranillo and 
Cabernet Sauvignon. +243329, $14.95, QPR: 90.


VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Grgich Hills Estate Chardonnay 2007 Napa, +346304, $53.95 retail. 
2. Vine Cliff Proprietress Reserve Chardonnay 2007 Los Carneros Napa, 
+198903, $34.95
3. Alain Geoffroy Beauroy Chablis 2007 1er Cru, +733501, $24.95.
4. Austin Hope Winery Hope Family Vineyard Syrah 2008 Paso Robles, 
+686121, $39.95.
5. Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008 Santa Barbara, 
+652883, $48.95.
6. Luca Pinot Noir 2008 Mendoza, +175570, $28.95.
7. Chateau Divon 2006 Saint-Georges Saint-Emilion, +190926, $23.95.
8. Christian Moueix Pomerol 2007, +903013, $24.95.
9. Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva 2006, +512384, $29.95.
10. Ruffino Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Riserva 2005, +353201, $43.95,
11. Bottega Il Vino Degli Dei Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006, 
+181537, $41.95. 

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR OCTOBER 16, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Zolo Torrontes 2009 Mendoza: aromatic, racy, good finish, either 
with food or on its own. +183913, $12.95, QPR: 89.
2. The Black Chook VMR 2008 McLaren Vale: delicious aromatic and floral 
blend of viognier with marsanne and roussanne. A fruity pleaser with a 
nice lemony finish. +186338, $16.95, QPR: 90.
3. Millton Riverpoint Vineyard Chardonnay 2008 Gisborne NZ: balanced, 
oak-vanilla-apples-lemons, 12.5% ABV, twist top. +92486, $17.95, QPR: 
89.
4. Tokara Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Western Cape: very good MVC consistency 
and development, balanced, zest and fruit. +183954, $14.95, QPR: 90.
5. Chateau de Quincay Selection Tradition Sauvignon 2009 Touraine: 
fabulous light and crisp character, but more for summer. Why released 
now? +66183, $13.95, QPR: 90.
6. See Ya Later Ranch Chardonnay 2008 Okanagan: lots of aromas and 
tropicality, oaked with a lean finish. 14% ABV. +126912, $19.95, QPR: 
89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cabernet de los Andes Tizac Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Fiambala 
Argentina: good value as an organic wine, red fruit just jumps right 
out. 13.9% ABV, +173369, $12.95, QPR: 91.
2. Estampa Estate Malbec/Petite Sirah 2009 Colchagua Chile: good blend 
gives a different take on Malbec, value-driven, 14% ABV. +169938, 
$12.95, QPR: 89.
3. Santa Alicia Gran Reserva de los Andes Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 
Maipo: juicy, in French oak for a year, but heavy bottle. 14.5% ABV. 
+60244, $18.95, QPR: 89.
4. Boekenhoutskloof Porcupine Ridge Syrah/Viognier 2007 Coastal Region 
South Africa: smoked meat and bacon galore, a real winner at this 
price, 14.5%. Buy a case. +79442, $17.95, QPR: 91.
5. Chateau Grand-Maison Cuvee Speciale 2006 Cotes de Bourg: smooth and 
ready to flow, Merlot-based. Good price. +194217, $16.95, QPR: 89.
6. Chateau Moulin de Canhaut 2005 Medoc: very North American appeal, 
black fruit grabs you, almost Rhonish. +190983, $19.95, QPR: 89.
7. Christian Moueix Saint-Emilion 2006: well-made, commercial 
complexity, useful tones and flavours at this price. +979955, $19.95, 
QPR: 90.
8. Remo Farina Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2007: delicious 
because my tasting sample was well-aged, a bit raisiny. +999946, 
$15.95, QPR: 89.
9. Marques de Vitoria Crianza 2007 Rioja: off-dry texture, plush 
Midweight, definite Rioja-style. +678045, $16.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Cuvaison Chardonnay 2008 Carneros Napa, +988261, $26.95 retail.
2. Paul Hobbs Chardonnay 2008 Russian River, +119073, $44.95.
3. Chateau de Cruzeau Blanc 2007 Pessac-Leognan, +966010, $24.95.
4. Jean-Max Roger Cuvee G.C. Sancerre 2008, +189126, $24.95.
5.  Cakebread Cellars Merlot 2006 Napa, +924159, $79.95.
6. Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Alexander Valley Sonoma, +943472, 
$89.95.
7. Charles Cimicky The Autograph Shiraz 2004 Barossa Valley, +27326, 
$39.95.
8. Tokara Director’s Reserve Red 2006 Stellenbosch, +183962, $26.95
9. Chateau de Lamarque 2004 Haut-Medoc, +194159, $28.95.
10. Chateau Reverdi 2006 Listrac-Medoc, +194209, $25.95.
11. Clos du Grand Puceau 2003 Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, +112904, $25.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR OCTOBER 2, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Reif Estate Gewurztraminer 2008 VQA Niagara River: engaging, MVC all 
the way, lovely bitterish finish. +127985, $14.95, QPR: 90.
2. Familia Zuccardi Santa Julia Reserva Chardonnay 2009 Mendoza: 
lightly oaked, excellent consistency of balance and fruit, a food wine. 
+932368, $12.95, QPR: 90.
3. Peter Lehmann Layers White 2009 Adelaide: a Conundrum-type blend, 
ripe and full, off-dry, great value. +167171, $17.95, QPR: 90.
4. Torres Gran Vina Sol Chardonnay 2008 Penedes: bright, engaging, with 
some vanilla and tropicality. 15% parellada lends some character. 
+171660, $14.95, QPR: 90.


TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Michel Torino Don David Malbec Reserve 2008 Cafayate Valley: dense, 
chunky, coffee and chocolate, good fruit set, long length. +64998, 
$12.95, QPR: 90.
2. Trapiche Broquel Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Mendoza: from older vines, 
some dust, MVC for the cabernet, big body. +17202, $15.95, QPR: 90.
3. Katnook Founder’s Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Coonawarra: dense 
fruit, but that Coonawarra elegance shows through. +660332, $17.95, 
QPR: 90.
4. Sandalford Margaret River Cabernet/Merlot 2008: delicious, upfront 
fruit, good Bordeaux-like intensity (4 grape varieties used). +191080, 
$19.95, QPR: 90.
5. Chateau Le Peyrat 2006 Cotes de Castillon: good merlot Bordeaux, MVC 
all the way, tastes like Bordeaux. +171090, $14.95, QPR: 90.
6. D’Angelo Aglianico del Vulture 2006: dep, dark, dense and complex, 
needs open time to develop its flavours. +971689, $18.95, QPR: 89.
7. Rocca dei Mori Salice Salentino 2006: full, aromatic, mocha tones, 
14% ABV. +180257, $14.95, QPR: 89.
8. Allegrini Corte Giara Ripasso Valpolicella 2008: ripe and plummy, 
with some jam and tar notes, best with stuffed roasted meats. +83964, 
$16.95, QPR: 89.
9. Bod. Neo El Arte de Vivir 2007 Ribero del Duero: dense, 
overextracted, lots of fruit and tannins, long long finish, from older 
vines. 13% ABV. Excellent value, buy it all. +137679, $13.95, QPR: 92.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay 2008 Sonoma, +295055, $29.95 retail.
2. La Crema Chardonnay 2008 Sonoma Coast, +962886, $29.95 retail.
3. Frogmore Creek Chardonnay 2006 Tasmania, +186379, $23.95 retail.
4. Domaine Philippe Colim Chassage-Montrachet 2007, +187617, $42.95.
5. Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Napa, +222877, $79.95 retail.
6. Shafer Vineyards Merlot 2007 Napa, +356262, $59.95 retail. 
7. Domaine Poulleau Pere et Fils Les Mondes Rondes 2007 Cote de Beaune, 
+69518, $23.95.
8. Domaine de la Cote de l’Ange Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, +74856, 
$37.95.
9. Poggio Bonelli Chianti Classico Riserva 2006, +180067, $28.95.
10. Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2001, +986117, 
$84.95 retail.
11. Medrano Irazu Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +182493, $27.95 retail.

WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR SEPT 18, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Henry of Pelham Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2007 VQA Niagara 
Escarpment: terrific balance of fruit and wood, vanilla, spices. Puts 
the plank back into salmon, etc. +268342, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Tawse Sketches of Niagara Chardonnay 2008 VQA Niagara Peninsula: a 
smart wine with lots of fruit and longer length. +89037, $19.95, QPR: 
90.
3. Chateau des Charmes Old Vines Riesling 2007 VQA NOTL: very 
successful Alsatian style, loaded with concentration. +277228, $16.95, 
QPR: 90.
4. Alamos Chardonnay 2009 Mendoza: useful and youthful, hits all the 
right buttons. +801571, $13.95, QPR: 89.
5. Chateau du Juge Blanc 2008 Bordeaux: lovely MVC of sauvignon blanc 
and Semillon, balance. +171082, $15.95, QPR: 90.
 
TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Vinecol Organic Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Mendoza: MVC consistency, 
off-dry finish, plumy but red fruit. +167270, $13.95, QPR: 89.
2. Ringbolt Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Margaret River: excellent fruit 
set, lovely persistent finish. It engaged me. +606624, $19.95, QPR: 90.
3. The Ruins Syrah/Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 WO Robertson SA: anoher 
organic wine winner, good hit of Rhone Syrah here. Twist top. 14.8% 
ABV. +18739, $14.95, QPR: 91.
4. Bod. Corral Don Jacobo Crianza 2005 Rioja: nicely aged, rich and 
raisiny, plumy and pruney too. Delightful MVC Rioja. +937714, $13.95, 
QPR: 91.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Le Clos Jordanne Talon Ridge Vineyard Chardonnay 2008 VQA, +143974, 
$37 retail.
2. Cave Spring CSV Cave Spring Vineyard Riesling 2008 VQA, +566026, 
$29.95 retail.
3. Landmark Overlook Chardonnay 2008 Sonoma, +356501, $32.95 retail.
4. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Karia Chardonnay 2007 Napa, +54585, $37.95.
5. Buoncristiani O.P.C. 2006 Napa, +196063, $47.95.
6. Ferrari-Carano Tresor 2006 Sonoma, +928150, $59.95.
7. Robert Sinskey Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Vandal Vineyard Napa, 
+196048, $39.95.
8. Dom. Jean-Marc Brocard Cote de Lechet Chablis 1er Cru 2008, +181305, 
$26.95, 
9. Chateau Barateau 2005 Haut-Medoc, +170282, $23.95
10. Antinori Castello Della Sala Bramito Del Cervo Chardonnay 2009 
Umbria, +176792, $21.95.
11. San Biagio Montersino Barbaresco 2006, +181370, $34.95.
12. Banfi Brunello di Montalcino 2004, +378257, $59.95.
13. San Fabiano Calcinaia Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Toscana IGT, +181420, 
$22.95.
14. Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos 2008 Bierzo Spain, +675207, 
$21.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR SEPTEMBER 4, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Sumac Ridge Black Sage Vineyard Chardonnay 2007 VQA Okanagan: nicely 
aged and developed well, citric finish plus smoke. +393710, $14.95, 
QPR: 89.
2. Geyser Peak Chardonnay 2008 Alexander Valley: 13.5% ABV, nice as 
sipper or with food, lots of wood activity and smoke and vanilla, 
finishing with fruit. +343475, $16.95, QPR: 90.
3. Veramonte Reserva Chardonnay 2008 Casablanca Valley: creamy, luxury, 
best young (i.e., now), 13.5% sipper. +494443, $14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Boschendal 1685 Chardonnay 2008 South Africa: elegant blend of 
toast, vanilla, and fruit – to a lingering finish. +172601, $15.95, 
QPR: 90.
5. Kuhlmann-Platz Hunawihr Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: 13.5%, very good 
MVC, hits all the highlights for gewurztraminer, but less dry than 
others. +169474, $17.95, QPR: 90.
6. Luc Pirlet Les Barriques Viognier Reserve 2008 Vins de Pays d’Oc: 
delicious floral wine, sip mostly but also with first course, buy it at 
this price. +177675, $11.95, QPR: 91.
7. Perrin & Fils Reserve Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2009: light floral 
aromatics, useful as aperitif, sip or food, patio? +177675, $14.95, 
QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Big Yellow Cab Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Mendocino: powerful fruit 
components, chocolate and coffee tones, smoke, vanilla, with some age 
behind it. +35014, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Alamos Syrah 2008 Mendoza: s strong syrah product, still needs time, 
may repay cellaring. +183848, $13.95, QPR: 89.
3. Carta Vieja Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Lonocomilla 
Chile: good complexity of Cabernet Sauvignon, MVC of black currant and 
spices. +169888, $13.95, QPR: 90
4. Mount Langri Ghiran Billi Billi Shiraz 2005 Victoria: good aging 
shows with fruit now five years old, twist top, 14% ABV. +719575, 
$16.95, QPR: 90. 
5. Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Cuvee 2007: basic and pleasant everyday 
sipper, 14% ABV. LCBO pre-release notes say it has Cabernet Franc but 
this grape variety was not on the label. +684357, $15.95, QPR: 89.
6. Les Vignerons de la Suzienne Cuve du Comte 2007 Southern Rhone: 
terrific syrah flavours at a bargain price, easily worth three times as 
much. 13.5% ABV, Please don’t buy all of this wine until Monday, so I 
can have Saturday to load up for myself… +178822, $15.95, QPR: 94.
7. Beronia Elaboracion Especial Tempranillo 2008 Rioja: smoky wine, not 
for the faint of heart, a keeper for the cellar but ready now. +723643, 
$15.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Huff Estates South Bay Vineyards Chardonnay 2007 VQA PEC, +88955, 
$29.95 retail.
2. Bouchard Pere et Fils Domaine Les Clous Meursault 2007, +661322, 
$44.95.
3. F. Tinel-Blondelet L’Arret Buffatte Pouilly-Fume 2008, +169730, 
$21.95.
4. Bouchard Pere & Fils Domaine Teurons Beaune 1er Cru 2007, +169797, 
$49.95.
5. Domaine de Haut des Terres Blanches Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, 
+177618, $36.95
6. Barone Ricasoli Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico 2006, +942607, 
$54.95.
7. Antiche Terre Venete Amarone Della Valpolicella 2007, +177733, 
$32.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR AUGUST 21, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Calamus Estate Reserve Riesling 2007 VQA Niagara: tasty, Alsatian 
style of complexity, good body and length. +180877, $15.95, QPR: 90.
2. Featherstone Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2009 VQA Niagara: zesty and 
leafy, tasty body on mid-palate, long finish, typical MVC for sauvignon 
blanc. +89011,$16.95, QPR: 89.
3. Folie a Deux Menage a Trois White 2008 California: basic aromatic 
freshness, fruitiness (moscato), scrumptious patio wine. +665166, 
$17.95, QPR: 90.
4. Angove Lon Row Chardonnay 2008 South Australia: fruit and oak in 
balance, twist top, 13.5% ABV. +641779, $13.95, QPR: 89.
5. Mount Riley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: delicious racy Kiwi 
complexity, affordable, chill well. +981670, $14.95, QPR: 90.
6. Sparr Tradition Pinot Gris 2008 Alsace: great body and aromatics, 
orchard fruit, lovely engaging finish, +176925, $17.95, QPR: 90.
7. Domaine Le Verger Chablis 2008: great price and value for a MVC 
Chablis of minerals, citrus, long length. +181289, $18.95, QPR: 89.
8. Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt RK Riesling 2008 QbA Mosel: a quality 
Moselle at 10.5% ABV, twist top, perfect for late summer. +733295, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
9. M. Codex Salterio Albarino 2009 Rias Baixas Spain: good floral 
components on the nose, lots of body and with finishing acid. Value 
priced. +2774, $15.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Folie a Deux Menage a Trois Red 2008 California: soft and fruity, 
oak and spices on finish, patio red. +665158, $17.95, QPR: 89.
2. Howling Moon Old Vine Zinfandel 2007 Lodi: dryer, berryish, good 
spicing, much of the finish lingers, 13.5% ABV. +57356, $18.95, QPR: 90
3. Madrigal Merlot 2005 Napa: excellent price for a Napa MVC merlot 
with a dry finish. Dried fruits on mid-palate. +184838, $18.95, QPR: 
90.
4. Los Rosale Chapel Vineyard Reserva Carmenere 2008 Rapel: very ripe 
tones but also some dried underbrush. +169490, $12.95, QPR: 89.
5. Vina Chocalan Syrah Reserva 2007 Maipo: very appealing syrah style, 
14% ABV, +38513, $14.95, QPR: 89.
6. Ben Glaetzer Heartland Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 South Australia: 
juicy, very appealing cabernet with lots of spices and black fruit. 
+58099, $19.95, QPR: 90.
7. Chateau Auzias Petits Messieurs Cabardes 2008: very soft, supple, 
North American appeal, patio red, character on the mid-palate. +177592, 
$14.95, QPR: 89.
8. Le Ferme du Mont Le Ponnant Cotes du Rhone-Villages 2007: loaded 
with Rhone character and depth. +171371, $17.95, QPR: 89.
9. Cave de Tain L’Hermitage Queen of Syrah Cool Climate Syrah 2007 Vin 
de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes: excellent syrah complexity, medium 
body but good length, Affordable. +155283, $11.95, QPR: 90.
10. Burgo Viejo Crianza 2005 Rioja: it’s almost impossible to find an 
older oaked Rioja for under $15. But here it is. Enjoy the value. 
+168815, $13.95, QPR: 91.
11. Honoro Vera Monastrell 2008 Jumilla: delicious fresh plums and 
berries. +167684, $11.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Flat Rock Cellars The Rusty Shed Chardonnay 2008 VQA Twenty Mile 
Bench, +1552, $24.95 retail. 
2. Robert Mondavi Chardonnay 2007 Napa, +258186, $28.95 retail.
3. Balthasar Ress Riesling Spatlese 1997 QmP Hatenheim, +160762, 
$21.95.
4. Andrew Rich Cuvee B Pinot Noir 2007 Willamette, +127043, $29.95.
5. Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir 2009 Victoria, +178897, $21.95 retail.
6. Two Hands Brave Faces Shiraz/Grenache/Mataro 2008 Barossa, +660035, 
$24.95.
7. Chateau Garderose 2006 Lalande de Pomerol,+176941, $24.95
8. Rendola Brunello di Montalcino 2004, +181412, $36.95


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR AUGUST 7, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Coyote’s Run Red Paw Vineyard Pinot Gris 2008 VQA Four Mile Creek 
Niagara: good citrus tones, some orchard fruit on the finish, 
reasonable body, definite “gris” style. +116582, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Round Hill Chardonnay 2008 California: decent balanced chardonnay 
with some wood complexity, 13% ABV, and well-priced. Gold medalist. 
+311415, $14.95, QPR: 89.
3. Tanunda Creek Loan Semillon 2006 Barossa Valley: very good MVC for 
the Barossa style, could be aged more, twist top – and organic! 
+108092, $16.95, QPR: 90.
4. Baron de Hoen Reserve Particuliere Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: 
delicious Gewurz, spot on the style from Alsace, with a forgivable 
price tag and excellent body. +169763, $15.95, QPR: 91.
5. Cantine Manimurci Impeto Greco di Tufo 2009 Campania: another great 
summery wine, with minerals and citrus tones, unbeatable value. 
+180752, $13.95, QPR: 90.
6. Caruso & Minini Terre di Giumara Inzolia 2009 IGT Sicilia: lovely 
crisp finish, orchard fruit, great price. +180760, $11.95, QPR: 90.
 
TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Dos 2 Estacas Malbec 2008 Mendoza: basic, dryish MVC Malbec at 14% 
ABV, with two years bottle aging after oaking in US and French wood. 
+169433, $12.95, QPR: 89. 
2. Fam. Schroeder Saurus Patagonia Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2008: very 
Euro in style, dry long finish. +61986, $15.95, QPR: 89.
3. Santa Laura Laura Hartwig Reserva Merlot 2007 Colchagua: full juicy 
flavours, delivers value. +640946, $13.95, QPR: 89.
4. Boxhead Shiraz 2008 South Australia: quality fruit bomb sipper, 14% 
ABV. +166967, $15.95, QPR: 89.
5. Richard Hamilton Gumprs’ Shiraz 2008 McLaren Vale: complex but heavy 
shiraz, black fruit and mocha. +600122, $18.95, QPR: 89.
6. Water Wheel Memsie 2008 Bendigo Victoria: North American in style 
but emphasizes syrah over shiraz, good balance and fruit. +656637, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
7. Domaine de Poujo Madiran 2007: terrific finish and depth, many black 
fruits and underbrush. +719674, $14.95, QPR: 89.
8. Apollonio Copertino Rosso 2004 Puglia: dynamite complexity right 
through to the finish of dried fruit. Six months oak, 14% ABV, 70% aged 
Negroamaro. +23226, $16.95, QPR: 90.
9. Francesco Minini Terre Avare Primitivo di Manduria 2008 Puglia: soft 
and fruity, like a California zinfandel, but less expensive. +180307, 
$12.95, QPR: 89.
10. Francesco Minini Corte dei Mori Nero d’Avola 2008 IGT Sicilia: rich 
and full-bodied in that North American style through taste and fruit. 
+180281, $13.95, QPR: 89.
11. Castello di Querceto Chianti 2008: a steal for a basic, well-made 
chianti, 12% ABV. +164798, $12.95, QPR: 89.
12. Senorio de Sarria Crianza 2006 Navarra: very North American in 
style – jammy, open, fruity, some wood. +167668, $12.95, QPR: 89.
13. Senorio de Unuela Edicion Limitada Reserva 2001 Rioja: lots of 
coconut tones from wood aging, but decently priced older Rioja. Scoop 
it up! +172536, $16.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Beringer Chardonnay 2008 Napa, +84988, $24.95 retail.
2. Chappellet Chardonnay 2008 Napa, +186577, $44.95 retail.
3. Tamdem Sangiacomo Vineyards Chardonnay 2007 Sonoma, +173344, $24.95
4. Kenwood Jack London Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Sonoma, 
+944843, $34.95
5. Clos de l’Oratoire des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, +993279, 
$39.95.
6. Farina LePezze Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2006, +171587, 
$31.95.






WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JULY 24, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Clay Station Unoaked Viognier 2008 Lodi: off-dry aromatic pleasant, 
emphasizing peaches. +25411, $16.95, QPR: 89.
2. Paul & Mallory Talmard Macon-Luchizy 2008: lush and full body, 
slightly off-dry, great price for summer. +733956, $15.95, QPR: 90.
3. Joseph Verdier Domaine de la Colline Sauvignon Touraine 2008: 
delicious sauvignon zest at this price level, flavours from front to 
finish. +169656, $11.95.
4. Saint-Roch Grenache Blanc/Marsanne 2009 Vieilles Vignes Cotes du 
Roussillon: harmonious, semi-aromatic, orchard fruit, believable price. 
+175232, $13.95.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Jekel Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Arroyo Secco Monterey County: always a 
personal fave, since the 1983 vintage, good wood this time out, but 
needs more cellar time. +967893, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Familia Schroeder Saurus Merlot 2008 Patagonia: red fruit shows, 
lots of body, better in the Fall. +167031, $13.95, QPR: 89. 
3. St. Hallett Gamekeeper’s Shiraz 2008 Barossa: juicy little devil, 
twist top, 14% ABV, BBQ all the way. +166991, $14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Stellenrust Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 WO Stellbosch: heavy-heavy 
tastes and textures, 15% ABV, best in winter time. +172593, $13.95, 
QPR: 90.
5. The Winery of Good Hope Shiraz 2007 WO Stellenbosch: very Rhonish. 
Buy it all at this price! +172577, $11.95, QPR: 92.
6. Chateau de Pena 2006 Cotes du Roussillon Villages: tasty, with depth 
and complexity to its age. +178392, $13.95, QPR: 90.
7. Domaine Les Yeuses Les Epices Syrah 2007 Vins de Pays d’Oc: 
value=priced, great syrah hit of pepper, smoked meat, black fruit. 
+177584, $12.95, QPR: 91.
8. Boutari Naoussa 2007 Greece: bargain price for this kind of smoky 
grape-oak complexity. +23218, $11.95, QPR: 90.
9. Encostas de Estremoz Vinha Longa Reserva Red 2006 Alentejo: 
delicious, heavy red wine, lots of fruit and mocha tones. BBQ for sure. 
+168765, $16.95, QPR: 90.


VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Lailey Chardonnay 2007 VQA Niagara River, +131243, $25 retail. 
2. Hollick Bond Road Chardonnay 2007 Coonawarra/Padthaway, +941922, 
$21.95 retail.
3. Andre & Edmond Figeat Les Chaumiennes Pouilly-Fume 2008, +171470, 
$21.95.
4. Tres Sabores ?Porque No? 2007 Napa, +186551, $29.95.
5. Howard Park Leston Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Margaret River, +923565, 
$29.95.
6. Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 McLaren Vale, +730374, $23.95.
7. Chateau de Beaucastel Coudoulet de Beaucastel 2007 Cotes du Rhone, 
+48884, $29.95.
8. Lazzeretti Brunello di Montalcino 2004, +149534, $38.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JULY 10, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Santa Barbara Winery Chardonnay 2008: all-purpose chard that shouts 
California. 13.8% ABV. +989152, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Simonsig Sunbird Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Western Cape: herby 
complexity, 13% ABV, twist top and value. +354746, $12.95, QPR: 90.
3. Helfrich Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: typical MVC, good body, low 
bitterish finish. +169748, $17.95, QPR: 90.
4. Domaine de la Pouvraie Vouvray 2008: off-dry on mid-palate, 
lingering honeyed tones. Great price for quality chenin blanc. +169706, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot 2007 Paso Robles: wood is evident, good 
concentration of fruit, soft finish. +27516, $19.95, QPR: 89.
2. Sheep’s Back Old Vine Shiraz 2003 Barossa Valley: an older shiraz 
treat from Oz, 14.3% ABV, stewed plums and rich. +165902, $19.95, QPR: 
90.
3. Temple Bruer Enoomah Bore Shiraz/Cabernet 2007 South Australia: 14% 
ABV, organic, vegan friendly (only bentonite used in filtering). 
+165894, $15.95, QPR: 90.
4. Boekenhoutskloof The Wolftrap Syrah/Mourvedre/Viognier 2009 Western 
Cape: delicious blend, 2/3 syrah, 14.5% ABV, comes together nicely for 
BBQ. +626333, $13.95, QPR: 90.
5. Chateau Le Monteil D’Arsac Portraits 2006 Haut-Medoc: typical MVC, 
best of the lot being released today, lay down a few. +171132, $17.95, 
QPR: 90.
6. Balma Venise Beaumes de Venise 2008: another delicious blend, this 
time 60% Grenache, rest syrah, yet more syrah in taste and tone. 14% 
ABV. The LCBO tasting note errs in referencing Shiraz instead of Syrah. 
+652206, $13.95, QPR: 90.
7. Chateau Mas Neuf Tradition Rouge Costieres de Nimes 2008: yet 
another delicious blend, this time 45% syrah, 25% Grenache, 15% 
mourvedre, and 15% carignan. Value priced BBQ. +177097, $13.95, QPR: 
90.
8. Di Majo Norante Sangiovese 2008 IGT Terra Degli Osci Molise: all of 
the sangiovese tones are there, great quality at this price level. 
+591974, $12.95, QPR: 90.
9. Terre di Giumara Nero D’Avola 2007 Sicily: a sure winner, given the 
price. Needs more time to resolve some tart tannins. +174722, $11.95, 
QPR: 89.
10. Rocca Delle Macie Chianti Riserva 2006: it seems like the LCBO is 
working hard to find quality values. With two years in large oak, this 
blend of sangiovese-cabernet-merlot should appeal because of its 
typical MVC. +111641, $15, QPR: 89.
11. Bodegas La Crianza 2005 Rioja: god price for some Rioja MVC, light 
enough for summer. +166538, $15.95, QPR: 89.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Artesa Chardonnay 2007 Carneros, +657585, $21.95 retail. 
2. Beringer Private Reserve Chardonnay 2007 Napa, +26682, $44.95
3. Domaine des Malandes Vieilles Vignes Montmains Chablis Premier Cru 
2007, +16626, $26.95.
4. Roland Tissier et Fils Sancerre 2008, +108514, $21.95.
5. Phelps Creek Becky’s Cuvee Pinot Noir 2007 Columbia Gorge Oregon, 
+181438, $26.95.
6. Hollick Coonawarra Red 2005, +165936, $22.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JUNE 26, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Ciderie St-Nicolas Pom’Or Tradition Crackling Cider Quebec: a 
pleasant change of pace from either beer or sparkling wine. The 7 % ABV 
gives it a basic kick; it is, of course, full of apple tones, Crisp 
throughout. +179473, $12.95, QPR: 90. 
2. McManis Family Vineyards Viognier 2008 California: delicious, 
exaggerated viognier style with peaches. +658112, 19.95, QPR: 90.
3. Te Kairanga Chardonnay 2007 Martinborough: heavily oaked, remains on 
the lips afterwards, body fruity but high acid. 13.5% ABV. +727024, 
$16.95, QPR: 90.
4. Jean Geiler Letzenberg Lieu-Dit Pinot Gris 2008 Alsace: intense, 
good body, off-dry finish. +169003, $16.95, QPR: 90.
5. Chateau Rauzan Despagne Blanc 2008 Bordeaux: good long 
Semillon/savvy blanc finish. +173955, $14.95, QPR: 90.
6. Domaine des Echardieres Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Touraine: sauvignon 
blanc with body, sip or with food. +168930, $13.95, QPR: 90.
7. Puklus Tokaji Yellow Muscat 2008 Hungary: good muscat complexity for 
Asiatic summer dishes, off-dry finish. +46508, $14.95, QPR: 90.
8. Colli a Lago San Vigilio Lugana 2008: terrific body and development, 
good floral and fruit aromas, complex on mid-palate, citric finish. 
+174128, $14.95.
9. Bodegas Agnusdei Terra Firme Albarino 2008: quality stone fruit 
tones at an affordable price level, 12.5% ABV. +166751, $13.95, QPR: 90
10. Miguel Torres Vina Esmeralda 2009 Catalunya: a perennial fave in my 
house for about 30 years. The first time I bought it, it was $3.50. 
Off-dry value, 11.5% ABV, twist top, summery aromas of muscat and 
Gewurz. +113696, $12.95, QPR: 90. 




TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Las Lomas Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Maule Valley: good varietal 
character of cabernet at this price level – plus it’s organic! +917922, 
$12.95, QPR: 90.
2. Tyrone Estate Home Block Merlot 2007: juicy lucy jammy fruit capsule 
bomb. +165969, $16.95, QPR: 90
3. Chateau Lanbersac 2005 Puisseguin Saint-Emilion: value, but needs 
more time. Good merlot complexity. Try again in 2 – 3 years. +177006, 
$19.95, QPR: 90.
4. M. Chapoutier Les Vignes de Bila-Haut Cotes du Roussillon-Villages 
2008: deep dark fruit, very aromatic and heady, long finish and body. 
+168716, $15, QPR: 90.
5. Clos La Coutale Cahors 2007: dark fruit, ready soon, North American 
style and appeal. +171579, $13.95, QPR: 90.
6. Caruso & Minini Cutaja Nero d’Avola 2007 Sicilia: smooth, black 
fruit, some mushroom underbrush component, best with food. +174763, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
7. Scopetani Chianti Riserva 2006: value wine with modal varietal 
character. +164814, $13.95, QPR: 90.
8. Bod. Alitus Ardal Crianza 2005 Ribero del Duero: dynamite value with 
lashings of oak, mushrooms, underbrush, and ripe red fruit. +167601, 
$17.95, QPR: 91.


VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Flat Rock Cellars Seriously Twisted 2007 Niagara, +87783, $22.95 
retail.
2. Chateau St. Jean Robert Young Chardonnay Alexander Valley, +990499, 
$31.95
3. De Loach Chardonnay 2007 Russian River, +702985, $23.95.
4. Quails’ Gate Merlot 2006 Okanagan, +169961, $24.95.
5. Chapellet Merlot 2006 Napa, +171686, $31.95.
6. E. Guigal Saint-Joseph 2006, +30031, $29.95.
7. Montiverdi Vigneto Cipressone Chianti Classico 1998, +954370, 
$24.95. 
8. Farina Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2005, +995910, $34.95.





WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JUNE 12, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Morgenhof Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Simonsberg-Stellenbosch: both 
herby and full-bodied, delicious as a sipper or a food wine. +18507, 
$13.95, QPR: 89. 
2. Stellar Organic Winery Running Duck Chardonnay 2009 Western Cape: 
very tasty, off-dry or low-acid in mouthfeel, some oak and vanillin. 
13.5% ABV. +149856, $12.95, QPR: 90.
3. Morgenhof Estate Chenin Blanc 2008 Simonsberg-Stellenbosch: some 
honeysuckle complexity from the combo of natural fruit aromas and added 
oaking, well-integrated. +978544, $14.95, QPR: 89.
4. Rosewood Estates Semillon 2008 Beamsville Bench VQA: tasty stone 
fruit, long length for food from the finishing acid. +177758, $18, QPR: 
90.
5. D’Arenberg The Money Spider Roussanne 2008 McLaren Vale: another 
productive aromatic sizzler, ending with some honeyed tones. +656710, 
$19.95, QPR: 90.
6. Wakefield Chardonnay 2008 Clare Valley/Adelaide Hills: integrated 
oak tones, neat balance. +711556, $16.95, QPR: 90.
7. Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: delicious with 
interesting herbs and development through to the engaging finish. 
+677450, $19.95, QPR: 90.
8. Te Kairanga Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Martinborough: another quality 
sipper from NZ, great mouthfeel. +32805, $16.95, QPR: 909.
9. Kuhlmann-Platz Muehlforst Gewurztraminer 2005 Alsace: off0-dry 
finish but regular MVC. 13% ABV. +168864, $15.95, QPR: 89.
10. Chateau Le Bonnat Blanc 2007 Graves: an affordable Semillon-
sauvignon blend with enough complexity at this level, quality. +170274, 
$17.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. De Grendel Merlot 2007 Durbanville: very good consistent Merlot 
softness, and a large longer finish. +149849, $16.95, QPR: 89.
2. Queen of Hearts Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Santa Barbara: 14.5% ABV, 
tons of black fruit, toasty, tasty, B-I-G. +135368, $13.95, QPR: 90.
3. Blue Pyrenees Shiraz 2006 Victoria: the bottle fell over from the 
weight of the six gold medals on the label. +935890, $16.95, QPR: 90.
4. Sticks Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Yarra Valley: tasty, food wine, long 
long and enjoyable finish. +165910, $19.95, QPR: 90.
5. Tahbilk Shiraz 2006 Victoria: a personal fave of mine when it was 
“Chateau Tahbilk”. I still have some 1983 and 1985 left in my cellar. 
This one can also be laid down. +214742, $19.95, QPR: 90.
6. Chateau La Croix de Queynac 2003 Bordeaux Superiore: ready now. So 
ripe it seems New World, but not overly sweet. +138636, $13.95, QPR: 
90. 
7. Villa des Anges Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 Pays d’Oc: juicy, New World 
style but finishes dry. +171967, $12.95, QPR: 90.
8. Les Piliers Syrah 2007 Costieres de Nimes: full of syrah complexity 
at a ridiculous price. +678086, $14.95, QPR: 90.
9. Argiolas Costera 2007 Connonau di Sardegna: earthy, fruity, 
delicious mushroom complexity and length. +99028, $17.95, QPR: 90.
10. Pedro Martinez Alesanco Reserva 2005 Rioja: typical Rioja at a 
Reserva level, price makes it worthwhile. Nicely aged. +170092, $17.95, 
QPR: 90.
11. Seniorio de Ardura Crianza 2006 Rioja: a bit youthful but emerging 
tastiness, good Spanish intensity at this price level. +171447, $13.95, 
QPRL: 90. 

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Morgan Highland Chardonnay 2007 Santa Lucia Highland, +953273, 
$32.95 retail.
2. Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Napa, +189795, $74.95.
3. Domaine de Saint Siffrein Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, +169771, $34.95.
4. Paolo Conterno Barolo 2005, +172783, $37.95.






WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MAY 29, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Catena Chardonnay 2008 Mendoza: minerals, body, oak, initial fruit 
follows through on the length. +918805, $19.95, QPR: 90. 
2. Vinecol Torrontes 2009 Mendoza: made form organic grapes, very good 
tropical fruit set, finishes dry. +32748, $13.95, QPR: 90.
3. D’Arenberg The Olive Grove Chardonnay 2007 McLaren Vale: unoaked but 
balanced fruit and acid, body from storage on lees. +702845, $17.95, 
QPR: 90.
4. Domaine du Petit Coteau Les Grenouilles Sec Vouvray 2008 Loire: 
organic grapes, body of chenin blanc but extra-dry with a long zesty 
finish. +106815, $16.95, QPR: 90.
5. Domaine Lecomte Quincy 2008 Loire: very well developed, balance of 
fruit and acid, with zest showing. Quite elegant. +172528, $18.95, QPR: 
90.
6. Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Riesling Kabinett 2007 Moselle: Riesling with 
a spicy kick and minerals, great body and a long finish. +160846, 
$20.95, QPR: 89.
7. Librandi Critone Bianco Val di Neto 2008 OGT Calabria: interesting 
and compelling blend of chardonnay and sauvignon blanc from a hot 
climate, floral, lots of body, great finish for a sipper. +169169, 
$13.95, QPR: 91.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Camelot Merlot 2006 California: toasty oak on nose and finish, words 
“magisterial merlot” appear on the label, 13.5% ABV, good value for a 
California merlot under $15 in Canada. +658070, $14.95, QPR: 91.
2. La Posta Pizzella Family Vineyard Malbec 2008 Uco Valley Mendoza: 
soft, ready soon, very French and elegant. +166298, $15.95, QPR: 90.
3. Laura Hartwig Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Colchagua: dynamite 
tastes and finish, a bit taut right now, cellar for a year, 14% ABV. 
+727495, $13.95, QPR: 90.
4. Zilzie Shiraz 2008 Barossa: quality but wavers between “shiraz” and 
“syrah” depending on where it lands on your palate. A Gold Medal in a 
competition that was “judged with food”. 14.5% ABV. Twist top. +58016, 
$17.95, QPR: 90.
5. Chateau La Raze Beauvallet 2005 Medoc: good basic Bordeaux with 
typical MVC plus some smoke and underbrush. +170316, $16.95, QPR: 90.
6. Domaine Bois Mayaid Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil 2008: gold medal 
winner, with very good cabernet franc kick, red fruit tones, best 
paired with food. +168971, $15.95, QPR: 90.
7. Mas del Perie Tradition Malbec Cahors 2006: rich and full but 
tannic, needs cellaring time. This is what Malbec is like at home in 
France, but do try it against a classy Argentine Malbec. +171561, 
$18.95, QPR: 90.
8. Frescobaldi Castello di Pomino 2006 Rosso: compelling red fruit 
flavours from the blend of pinot noir, sangiovese, and merlot. Longer 
food finish and body. +939223, $19.95, QPR: 90
9. Vinha d’Ervideira Colheita Seleccionada 2007 Alentejo: rich and 
ripe, smokey, complex enough to give your palate a workout, long 
finish. +168773, $15.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Luca Chardonnay 2008 Uco Valley Mendoza, +167338, $28.95 retail.
2. Kim Crawford Kim’s Favourite SP Chardonnay 2007 Gisborne, +90126, 
$24.95.
3. Domaine Raoul Gautherin Vaillons Chablis 1er Cru 2007, +159236, 
$29.95.
4. Backsberg Pumphouse Shiraz 2006 WO Paarl, +652651, $21.95.
5. Vriesenhof Kallista 2004 WO Stellenbosch, +160093, $27.95.
6. Lan Gran Reserva 2003 Rioja, +928622, $28.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MAY 15, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Peninsula Ridge Inox Reserve Chardonnay 2007 Beal Vineyards 
Beamsville Bench VQA: lovely development of white flowers, very good 
consistency, quite floral. No oak. +7328, $18.95, QPR: 90.
2. Las Moras Reserve Chardonnay 2008 San Juan Argentina: excellent all 
round chard at this price, a bit of fruit, wood, zest, long finish. 
Snap it all up!! +32896, $11.95, QPR: 92.
3. Rodney Young Chalk Hill Chardonnay 2007 Sonoma: lovely tropical 
fruit, crisp finish and toast. 14.3% ABV. +275552, $19.95, QPR: 90.
4. La Joya Viognier Reserve 2008 Colchagua Chile: enjoyable floral 
flavours, good price, but best with food rather than as sipper, 14.3% 
ABV. +168542, $13.95, QPR: 90.
5. Sileni Cellar Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: 
tasty, zesty, nervy, good food finish. +662882, $15.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Renwood Sierra Foothills Red Label Syrah 2005: good wood and syrah 
development, uplifting, lovely finish. +588095, $15.95, QPR: 90.
2. Santa Julia Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Mendoza: good price for a wine 
made from organic grapes, hits all the cab notes, finishes well. 
+68452, $12.95, QPR: 90.
3. Chateau Hauchat 2006 Fronsac: good Bordeaux MVC, nice finish. 
+123489, $14.95, QPR: 90. 
4. Villa Girardi Bure Alto Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 
2007: very tasty but North American fruit bomb appeal, long length. 
+161844, $17.95, QPR: 90.
5. Bod. Valcarlos Fortius Reserva 2004 Navarra: raisins, nicely aged, 
well-priced. +166611, $16.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. J. Lohr Arroyo Vista Chardonnay 2007 Monterey, +171272, $29.95 
retail.
2. Heggies Vineyard Chardonnay 2008 Eden South Australia, +903559, 
$23.95.
3. Roux Pere & Fils La Chateniere Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 2007, +169177, 
$39.95.
4. William Fevre Chablis 1er Cru 2007, +169805, $29.95.
5. Dr.Nagler Riesling Auslese 2002 QmP Rudesheimer, +161646, $22.95.
6. Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir 2007 Okanagan VQA, +585760, $24.95.
7. Kaesler Stonehorse Shiraz/Grenache/Mourvedre 2007 Barossa, +6551, 
$23.95.
8. Chateau La Confession 2006 St-Emilion Grand Cru, +563684, $62.
9. Domaine Daniel Rion & Fils Les Grandes Vignes Nuits-St-Georges 2007, 
+981548, $44.95.
10. Marchesi de Frescobaldi Castelgiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2004, 
+650432, $49.95.
11. Querciabella Chianti Classico 2007, +728816, $34.95.




WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MAY 1, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cave de Beblenheim Heimberger Les Origines Vieilles Vignes Riesling 
2008 Alsace: thirty year old vines, good depth to Riesling intensity, 
needs food. +168955, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Domaine du Pre Baron Sauvignon Touraine 2009 Loire: very herbaceous 
and crisp good dry and zesty finish, food wine. +107128, $14.95, QPR: 
90.
3. E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2008: good price for detailed 
sunshine, sip or food. +290296, $16.95, QPR: 89.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2008 California: 15% ABV blockbuster, 
some of the wine comes from 80 – 100 year old vines in Oakley. 
Excellent value. +719211, $17.95, QPR: 90.
2. Zig Zag Zin Zinfandel 2007 Mendocino: time to light up with this 
charmer, 14.5% ABV, good zin intensity right through past the finish. 
+39982, $18.95, QPR: 90.
3. Vina Tarapaca Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Maipo: classy and 
suave cab, value priced, 14.5% ABV, snap it all up. +18721, $15.95, 
QPR: 92.
4. Laurent Mabileu St-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil 2008: very pronounced 
cabernet franc character, developmentally positive, good finish. 
+61192, $15.95, QPR: 90.
5. Domaine Montmartel Visan 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages: long enduring 
finish, ready in a year. +130062, $15.95, QPR: 90.
6. Montinho Sao Miguel 2008 Alentejano Portugal: the cab shows through 
in this appealing North American-styled wine. +114405, $12.95, QPR: 90.
7. Burgo Viejo Reserva 2001 Rioja: bargain priced value for this 8 year 
old Rioja MVC, wood, and depth. +168823, $19.95, QPR: 90. 

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. La Crema Chardonnay 2007 Monterey, +158683, $29.95 retail.
2. Sigalas Santorini 2008 Greece, +74781, $21.95.
3. Edmeades Zinfandel 2007 Mendocino, +105924, $25.95.
4. Pikes Eastside Shiraz 2006 Clare Valley, +77891, $22.95.
5. Rosemount Traditional Show Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Petit 
Verdot 2005 McLaren Vale, +484097, $34.95.
6. Craggy Range Gimblett Gravels Vineyard Te Kahu 2007 Hawkes Bay, 
+163584, $29.95. (Bordeaux blend)
7. Chateau LaRose-Trintaudon 2004 Haut-Medoc, +167437, $26.95.
8. Cuvee du Vatican Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007, $719120, $36.95.
9. Laurus Gigondas 2006, +163113, $24.95. 
10. Marchesi di Barolo Barolo 2005, +168179, $38.95.


WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR APRIL 17, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay 2008 Napa: restaurant wine, but still 
complex, consistent, good value. +136382, $18.95, QPR: 89.
2. Santa Julia Organica Chardonnay 2009 Mendoza: organic wine but 
fantastic price for delivering quality MVC chardonnay tones. +141408, 
$12.95, QPR: 91.
3. Caliterra Tributo Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2008 Casablanca: strong 
aromas of coconut and vanilla from the US oak, but very approachable, 
lovely wine. +144709, $14.95, QPR: 90.
4. Penmara Reserve Chardonnay 2008 Orange New South Wales: good dense 
flavours, complex arrangement of fruit and oak. +912790, $17.95, QPR: 
89.
5. Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Marlborough: juicy apples (spy?) or 
malic acid plus the herby quality of a sauvignon blanc. Long finish. 
+686675, $14.95, QOR: 89.
6. Martin Steimer Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: affordable MVC for the 
grape, will not disappoint. +709790, $16.95, QPR: 89.
7. Max. Ferd. Richter Riesling Kabinett 2007 Mosel: intense riesling 
character, very Germanic, MVC is good for the price. +160556, $15.95, 
QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Sterling Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Mendocino: cool climate 
style, useful organic wine, twist top. +161240, $16.95, QPR: 89.
2. Terranoble Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Colchagua: good 
aging, complex and better with food. +46268, $16.95, QPR: 89.
3. Tatu Primitivo del Tarantino 2006 Puglia: thicker, juicier, and 
cheaper than zinfandel at this price, 14% ABV. +160390, $14.95, QPR: 
90.
4. Farina Le Pezze Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2006: great 
concentration and depth, length, and needs food. +134684, $14.95, QPR: 
90.
5. Maculan Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Veneto: Heavier than other years, 
13.5% ABV, good dose of blueberries. +987701, $14.95, QPR: 90.
6. 

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Franciscan Chardonnay 2007 Napa, +496125, $24.95 retail.
2. Josef Chromy Pinot Gris 2008 Tasmania, +162974, $22.95.
3. Hahn Estates Meritage 2007 Central Coast California, +161265, 
$24.95.
4. Josef Chromy Pinot Noir 2008 Tasmania, +163022, $26.95.
5. Saltram Mamre Brook Shiraz Barossa, +32227, $23.95.
6. Fontodi Chianti Classico 2007, +933317, $27.95.
7. Masi Serego Alighieri Vaio Armaron Amarone Della Valpolicella 
Classico 2004, +462812, $69.95.






WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR APRIL 3, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
Creator of Canada's award-winning wine satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is a guide to 
thousands of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers 
and spirits, at www.deantudor.com since 1995. My tastings are based on 
MVC (Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price 
Ratio). Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: 
The LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine 
writers or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-
tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Irony Chardonnay 2008 Napa: good balance and depth, a restaurant 
wine, consistent from year to year. +27409, $19.95, QPR: 89.
2. Graham Beck Sauvignon Blanc 2008 WO Coastal Region: juicy, MVC 
nettles and gooseberries, twist top, 13% ABV. +948620, $13.95, QPR: 90.
3. Andre Blanck Rosenbourg Pinot Blanc 2008 Alsace: delicate white 
flowers, malic minerality at the finish. +626606, $14.95, QPR: 90.
4. Maison Francois Martenot Cuvee Prestige Bourgogne Chardonnay 2007: 
well-rounded, some caramel, value-driven. +159095, $16.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Lander-Jenkins Spirit Hawk Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 California: good 
balance of fruit and acid, longer finish, 13.5% ABV. +161398, $17.95, 
QPR: 89.
2. Humberto Canale Caracter Patagonia Intimo Malbec 2008: fruity, 
plumy, very heavy bottle, 13.5% ABV. +144725, $12.95, QPR: 89.
3. Chilensis Reserva Carmenere 2008 Maule Valley: superb tamed 
herbaceousness, lots of acidified fruit, long balanced finish. +657981, 
$11.95, QPR: 91.
4. Seifried Estate Pinot Noir Nelson South Island: tasty, lightly sour, 
good heft to MVC component. +70778, $19.95, QPR: 89. 
5. Chateau Haut-Grelot Cuvee Tradition 2006 Premieres Cotes de Blaye: 
very traditional, straightforward Bordeaux with wood, mocha, 
underbrush. Great price. +165738, $15.95, QPR: 91.
6. Domaine Laurent Mabileau Bourgueil 2008: good cabernet franc 
intensity, herby but fresh too. +699666, $13.95, QPR: 89.
7. Cave de Roquebrun La Grange des Combes Saint-Chinian-Roquebrun 2007: 
good wash of syrah and depth to the finish. +155804, $16.95, QPR: 89.
8. Skouras Saint George 2007 Nemea: ripe and ready, red berries, mocha. 
+162321, $16.95, QPR: 89.
9. Bodegas Lan Reserva 2004 Rioja: excellent value for a Rioja Reserva, 
13.5% ABV. Accessible now, aging gracefully. +42929, $19.95, QPR: 90.
10. Gladium Tempranillo Crianza 2006 La Mancha: dense, dark, delicious, 
ready by Fall 2010. Fruit and acid almost in balance. +162677, $15.95, 
QPR: 90.
11. Bod Bilbainas Vina Zaco Tempranillo 2006 Rioja: MVC classic style 
of Rioja flavours, 14% ABV. +146209, $14.95, QPR: 89.
12. Vinedos Neo Vinos de Fabula Vivir, Vivir 2007 Ribera del Duero: 
very soft but spicy, from older vines, affordable delicacy, 13% ABV. 
+162693, $12.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Stella Bella Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Margaret River, +108159, $21.95 
retail.
2. Bouchard Pere et Fils Montagny 1er Cru 2007 Blanc, +653683, $27.95.
3. Domaine de la Tour Monts-Main Chablis 1er cru 2006, +159731, $32.95.
4. Beringer Third Century Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 North Coast, +47704, 
$23.95.
5. Stella Bella Shiraz 2007 Margaret River, +48553, $24.95.
6. Carpineto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva 2003, +368910, 
$27.95.
7. Leal Tanza Gran Reserva 2001 Rioja, +927913, $27.95.



WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MARCH 20, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is guide to thousands 
of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and 
spirits, at www.deantudor.com (since 1995). Creator of Canada's leading wine 
satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My tastings are based on MVC 
(Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). 
Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The 
LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers 
or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Calamus Estate Riesling 2007 Niagara Vinemount Ridge: very Alsatian 
in tone, long lingering finish, 11.5% ABV. +158642, $16.95, QPR: 90.
2. Cave Spring Estate Bottled CSV Gewurztraminer 2008 Beamsville Bench: 
good bitterish finish, slightly smoothed out. +302059, $15.95, QPR: 90.
3. Catena Alamos Viognier 2008 Mendoza: good stone fruit intensity, 
best as sipper or with food. +507830, $13.95, QPR: 90.
4. Uby Colombard/Ugni Blanc 2009 Vins de Pays des Cotes de Gascogne: 
excellent all round balanced fresh white that tastes like “wine” and 
not apples, lemons, or other fruit. +151019, $11.95, QPR: 90.
 
TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Clos du Bois Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 North Coast: a steady fave 
resto wine, balanced, good with food. +181685, $18.95, QPR: 90.
2. Lagarde Altas Cumbres Malbec 2008 Mendoza: MVC, vanilla tones and 
fruit, long length. +146381, $12.95, QPR: 90.
3. D’Arenberg The Stump Jump Shiraz 2008 McLaren Vale: delicious fruit, 
New World driven of course, twist top, 14.5% ABV. +158238, $14.95, QPR: 
90.
4. Kim Crawford Merlot 2007 Hawkes Bay: soft, 13.5% ABV, good merlot 
intensity and length, a food wine. +680967, $19.95, QPR: 90.
5. La Clape Chateau Rouquette Sur Mer Cuvee Amarante 2007 Coteaux du 
Languedoc: very good syrah hit, quality made product, and please check 
out the great UPC design under the back label. +156273, $17.95, QPR: 
90.
6. Cantina Valpantena Terre di Verona Ripasso Valpolicella 2006: rich, 
ripe, and voluptuous. +117127, $17.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Hidden Bench Rosomel Vineyard Fume Blanc 2007 Beamsville Bench, 
+68825, $30.20 retail. 
2. Le Clos Jordanne Claystone Terrace Chardonnay 2007 Twenty Mile 
Bench, +56929, $40 retail.
3. Ravine Vineyard Chardonnay 2008 Niagara, +173377, $24 retail.
4. Ironstone Reserve Chardonnay 2007 Sierra Foothills, +158774, $26.95.
5. Domaine Serge Laloue Sancerre 2008, +744086, $22.95.
6. Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Green Label Syrah-Shiraz 2007 
California, +90068, $24.95.
7. Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Ivory Label Cabernet Sauvignon 
2007 California, +521021, $26.95.
8. Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Alexander Valley, +50427, 
$24.95.
9. 3 Rings Shiraz 2007 Barossa, +15495, $21.95.
10. Bouchard Pere & Fils Cote de Beaune-Villages 2006, +714998, $24.95.
11. Vignamaggio Gherardino Chianti Classico 2007, +963512, $23.95.






WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR MARCH 6, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is guide to thousands 
of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and 
spirits, at www.deantudor.com (since 1995). Creator of Canada's leading wine 
satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My tastings are based on MVC 
(Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). 
Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The 
LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers 
or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Emiliana Novas Winemaker’s Selection Chardonnay/Viognier/Marsanne 
2007 Casablanca: from organic grapes, dynamite body and oaky finish, a 
big dense wine with flowers on the approach. +63909, $18.95, QPR: 90.
2. Errazuriz Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Casablanca: good 
balance with elegance, rewarding food wine, 13.5% ABV, twist top. 
+143198, $14.95, QPR: 90.
3. Ingoldby Chardonnay 2008 McLaren Vale: balanced, tightly framed, low 
oak. +47647, $14.95, QPR: 90.
4. Pfaffenheim Cuvee Bacchus Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: terrific 
gewurztraminer tones, but drier than the MD indicated in the catalogue. 
+996017, $19.95, QPR: 90.
5. Domaine des Aspes Viognier 2008 Vins de Pays D’Oc: delicious value, 
complexity of peaches and citrus fruit. 13.5% ABV, twist top. +712638, 
$15.95, QPR: 90.
6. Henri de Richemer Muscat Sec 2008 Vins de Pays des Cotes de Thau: 
terrific floral and muscat complexity at this price level. +150169, 
$12.95, QPR: 91.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Sonoma: deep, deep textures, 
very cabby, best with food. 13.8% ABV. +226944, $19.95, QPR: 90.
2. Casa Lapostolle Merlot 2008 Rapel: delicious merlot intensity, but 
with old world character. 14.5% ABV. +405712, $16.95, QPR: 90.
3. Emiliana Novas Limited Selection Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2007 
Central Valley Chile: first rate Bordeaux-styled blend, organic grapes. 
+685792, $14.95, QPR: 90.
4. Emiliana Novas Limited Selection Carmenere/Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 
Colchagua: earthy, but excellent blend and balanced with fruit. 
Organic, of course. I think that this is the first time I’ve ever 
recommended THREE wines from the same company in one release. +66746, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
5. Tabali Reserva Merlot 2006 Limari: good long food finish, lots of 
black fruit and mocha and roasted vanilla. +93740, $14.95, QPR: 90.
6. Alkoomi Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Frankland River: delicious Euro 
style, with black fruit and smoke sitting on top. +904227, $19.95, QPR: 
90.
7. Mulderbosch Faithful Hound 2005 WO Stellenbosch: excellent Bordeaux-
styled wine, with five classic grape varieties used. +922443, $20.95, 
QPR: 90. 
8. Chateau Fabre Cuvee des Jumelles 2008 Corbieres: basic quality red 
for grilled meats and BBQ. +148783, $13.95, QPR: 90.
9. Aldo Marenco Pirun 2008 Dolcetto: plumy with raspberry component, 
good tannins right to the finish, food. Organic. +161729, $17.95, QPR: 
90.
10. Rivera Cappellaccio Riserva Aglianico 2004 Castel del Monte Puglia: 
extremely Italianate, good aged complexity, jam and leather. +984120, 
$17.95, QPR: 90.
11. Vignalta Rosso Riserva 2005 Veneto: a 60/40 blend of cabernet 
sauvignon and merlot, 13.5% ABV, generous fruit. +52571, $19.95, QPR: 
90.
12. Guelbenzu Azul 2006 Ribera del Queiles Spain: juicy, North American 
style, modestly herby and black currant notes. +146225, $18.95, QPR: 
90.
13. Heredad de Baroja Cautivo Crianza 2005 Rioja: woody tones, upfront 
on the nose, along with tempranillo fruit. +148510, $13.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Beringer Sbragia Limited-Release Chardonnay 2007 Napa, +79178, 
$54.95 retail.
2. Mulderbosch Chardonnay 2006 WO Stellenbosch, +717090, $21.95.
3. Domaine Marechal-Caillot Savigny-Les-Beaune 2006, +159707, $34.95.
4. Cennatoio Chianti Classico 2006, +121210, $24.95.
5. I Castei Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2005, +739979, $38.95.




WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR FEBRUARY 20, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is guide to thousands 
of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and 
spirits, at www.deantudor.com (since 1995). Creator of Canada's leading wine 
satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My tastings are based on MVC 
(Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). 
Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The 
LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers 
or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Peller Estates Private Reserve Chardonnay 2007 Okanagan: delicious 
creaminess, 14.5% ABV, overripe voluptuousness. +618298, $17.95, QPR: 
90.
2. Blackstone Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Monterey County: good fruit 
complexity at this price level, sauvignon zest is slightly muted. 
+586149, $15.95, QPR: 90.
3. Catena Alamos Chardonnay 2008 Mendoza: hard to pass up at this 
level, buttery-burnet toast, 13.5% ABV. French oak. +801571, $13.95, 
QPR: 90.
4. Domaine Wachau Terraces Gruner Veltliner 2008 Austria: softer and 
more floral than in the past, longer finish, sip or with food. +155812, 
$15.95, QPR: 90.
5. Agnusdei Albarino 2008 Rias Baixas: highly and brightly aromatic, 
light lemons on finish. +146241, $17.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Van Ruiten Old Vine Zinfandel 2007 Lodi: off-dry, jammy, juicy, 
party wine. +58685, $18.95, QPR: 90.
2. Cristobal 1492 Oak Reserve Merlot 2007 Mendoza: dynamite blowout of 
rich and oaky tones, black fruit and black chocolate. At this price, 
buy it all!! +663096, $12.95, QPR: 93.
3. Cono Sur Vision Syrah 2007 Colchagua: 13.5% ABV, dense, chunky, not 
yet ready but delicious. Some tomato and olive tones. +24661, $15.95, 
QPR: 90.
4. Evans & Tate Cabernet/Merlot 2004 Margaret River: a Bordeaux-style 
wine with snap, ready now, affordable. +721548, $14.95, QPR: 91.
5. Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Shiraz 2008 Barossa: ripe plums, spicy, 
cedar, 15% ABV, twist top. +595306, $15.95, QPR: 90.
6. The Winery of Good Hope Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2008 Stellenbosch: 
North American style, twist top, 13.5% ABV, nicely affordable. +8748, 
$11.95, QPR: 90. 
7. Domaine Ferrer-Ribiere Tradition 2007 Cotes du Roussillon: delicious 
raspberry complexity, longer length. Organic. +148627, $16.95, QPR: 90.
8. Mas des Bressades Cuvee Tradition 2008 Costieres de Nimes: very 
Rhonish, ready now, good syrah hit for under $15. +143099, $14.95, QPR: 
91.
9. Terres d’Avignon Les Cardinalices Grande reserve Cotes du Rhone 
2007: well-integrated, aging gracefully, terrific fruit, anise, and 
length. 14% ABV. +155473, $14.95, QPR: 90.
10. Giordano Maestri Italiani Nebbiolo d’Alba 2007: a plush Barolo-like 
hit. +159483, $16.95, QPR: 90.
11. Monte Antico Sangiovese/Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 IGT Tuscany: 
undersuperTuscan style, affordable. +69377, $15, QPR: 90.
12. Duque de Medina Gran Reserva 2000 Carinera Spain: aging well, with 
leather and some snappy tartness that’s enough for food accompaniment. 
+148494, $19.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Wilm Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace, +156745, $26.95 retail (Kosher)
2. Domaine Chevallier Chablis 2007, +112227, $22.95.
3. Hugh Hamilton The Rascal Shiraz 2006 McLaren Vale, +595405, $26.95.
4. Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico Riserva 2006, +650754, $29.95.






WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR FEBRUARY 6, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is guide to thousands 
of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and 
spirits, at www.deantudor.com (since 1995). Creator of Canada's leading wine 
satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My tastings are based on MVC 
(Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). 
Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The 
LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers 
or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Konzelmann Reserve Gewurztraminer 2007 Late Harvest VQA Niagara: 
loaded with Alsatian Gewurz character, off-dry Spatlese level, more 
citric than bitter on the finish. +3992357, $17.20, QPR: 90.
2. Sebastiani Chardonnay 2007 Sonoma: Gold Medalist. Buttery, creamy 
vanilla on finish, restaurant wine. +30791, $17.95, QPR: 90.
3. Casa Lapostolle Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Rapel: very good sauvignon MVC, 
modest finish for sipping. +396994, $13.95, QPR: 90.
4. Berton Vineyards The White Viognier 2009 SE Australia: twist top, 
14% ABV, velvet in the mouth, peaches and tropical notes. +93435, 
$15.95, QPR: 90.
5. Lammershoek Chenin Blanc 2008 WO Swartland: some wood tones of 
caramel and toast makes this an engaging wine. +58206, $18.95, QPR: 90.
6. Pierre Sparr Reserve Pinot Blanc 2008 Alsace: delicious, aromatic, 
pleasing winter sipper or with food. +134635, $13.95, QPR: 90.
7. Mermont Picpoul de Pinet 2008 Coteaux de Languedoc: aromatic, deep 
development, long finish, good price. But a summer wine. +148791, 
$11.95, QPR: 90.
8. Dr.Fischer Riesling Spatlese 2003 Moselle Ockfener Bockstein: off-
dry sipper, intense aromatics from a great vintage, good with cheese. 
+146340, $17.95, QPR: 90.
9. Luis Canas Fermentado en Barrica Blanco 2008 Rioja: a wood-aged 
Rioja white, typical of the style but at a great low price. 13.5% ABV. 
+146217, $14.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Sonoma: good character restaurant 
wine, off-dry finish, hits all the right cab buttons. +640573, $19.95, 
QPR: 90.
2. Luigi Bosca Single Vineyard Malbec 2006 Mendoza: way underpriced, 
brimming with Malbec intensity. +74922, $18.95, QPR: 91.
3. Andean Opi Rodolfo Sadler Malbec 2008: 13.5% ABV, food wine with 
some toast and underbrush in the length. +144360, $12.95, QPR: 90.
4. Viu Manent Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Colchagua: Chile 
character, good value cab with some Bordeaux complexity. +59196, 
$15.95, QPR: 90.
5. Small Gully Wines “The Formula” Robert’s Shiraz 2005 South 
Australia: twist top, but also 16.7% ABV. Nothing small about this 
wine. +142935, $16.95, QPR: 90.
6. Nederburg Manor House Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 WO Paarl: lots of cab 
sauv flavours, ripe and toasty, North American style of spicing. 
+68767, $16.95, QPR: 90.
7. Delas Freres Les Launes Crozes-Hermitage 2007: delightful syrah hit, 
definite value from the North Rhone. +701359, $19.95, QPR: 90.
8. Itynera Primitivo 2007 IGT Salento: 14% ABV, but good zinfandel 
character of plumminess and the longer finish. +70805, $14.95, QPR: 90. 
9. Buil & Gine Gine Gine 2006 Priorat Spain: 14.5% ABV, dense dynamite 
of flavours after time. +67843, $17.95, QPR: 90. 
10. Pagos del Rey Arnegui Crianza 2006 Rioja: quite rich for a Crianza, 
hence value. Sports toast and new wood plus red berries. +146274, 
$15.95, QPR: 90.

VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are READY to enjoy right NOW. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Chateau Souverain Chardonnay 2008 Alexander Valley, +158600, $24.95 
retail.
2. Caves des Vignerons de Buxy Montagny Les Chaniots 1er Cru 2007, 
+159020, $23.95.
3. Langmeil Blacksmith Cabernet 2006 Barossa, +644039, $22.95.
4. Due Torri Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, +724740, 
$36.95.




WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JANUARY 23, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is guide to thousands 
of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and 
spirits, at www.deantudor.com (since 1995). Creator of Canada's leading wine 
satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My tastings are based on MVC 
(Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). 
Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The 
LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers 
or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Santa Julia Reserva Chardonnay 2008 Mendoza: slightly above entry 
level, creamy, value priced. +932368, $13.95, QPR: 90.
2. Strewn Pinot Blanc 2008 VQA Niagara-on-the-lake: oaked aged for a 
dimensional extra, a sort of pinot grigio with attitude. +522748, 
$13.95, QPR: 90.
3. Folie a Deux Menage a Trois White 2008 California: sourced from 
chardonnay, moscato and chenin blanc grapes for that “je ne sais quoi” 
feel. +665166, $17.95, QPR: 90.
4. Yalumba Y Series Pinot Gris 2008 South Australia: twist top, good 
body for a pinot gris, longer finish. +138586, $15.95, QPR: 90.
5. Errazuriz Wild Ferment Chardonnay 2008 Casablanca Valley: a 
chardonnay with attitude, creamy, some gaminess. +738393, $16.95, QPR: 
90.
6. Pierre Sparr Reserve Gewurztraminer 2008 Alsace: 13.5% ABV, spicy 
orange complexity from association with the muscat family, slight 
bitterness on finish. +747600, $17.95, QPR: 90.

TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Kaiken Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Mendoza: plumy, dense, but 
approachable soon. +143248, $14.95, QPR: 90.
2. Luigi Bosca Reserva Merlot 2006 Mendoza: good oaking, integration 
with fruit, delicious. +143289, $16.95, QPR: 90.
3. Santa Julia Magna 2008 Mendoza: good blend of Malbec, cabernet 
sauvignon, and syrah, red fruit, and long finish. +93799, $14.95, QPR: 
90.
5. Zonte’s Footstep Shiraz/Viognier 2007 Langhorne Creek South 
Australia: excellent North Rhone style, great price. +72975, $15.95, 
QPR: 91. 
6. Graham Beck Merlot 2006 WO Coastal Region South Africa: good 
chocolate-coffee tones, tasty character. +607804, $15.95, QPR: 90.
7. Leopard’s Leap Shiraz 2007 WO Coastal Region South Africa: good MVC 
for the price, tastes like a quality syrah. +148213, $12.95, QPR: 90.
8. Chateau Grand Ferrand 2006 Bordeaux Superieur: has that “gout de 
Bordeaux” MVC feel. +138693, $14.95, QPR: 90.
9. Pech Matelles Marselan 2008 Vin de Pays des Bouches du Rhone: an 
off-dry feel, very cabby, organic, well-produced and well-priced. 
+148684, $12.95, QPR: 90.
10. La Reserve de Crouzau St. Gervais 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages: 
good syrah hit, toothy and full of blackberries and pepper. +142942, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
11. Apollonio Valle Cupa 2001 IGT Salento: wood and raisins, long long 
finish, nicely aged south Italy wine. +84046, $19.95, QPR: 90.
12. Azul Portugal Vinho Tinto 2007 Palmela Portugal: well-developed 
already, good tasting Euro blend. +146167, $12.95, QWPR: 90.
13. Piedras de San Pedro Loculto 2005 Crianza Ribera del Duero: 
excellent, with wood-black fruit-acid integration in play, some 
eucalyptus. +147926, $18.95, QPR: 91.
 
VALUE: “RESTAURANT READY” or “BRING YOUR OWN WINE BOTTLE” over $20
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Restaurants should consider offering these FINE VALUE wines at a $10 
markup over retail; the wines are ready to enjoy right now. Consumers 
should buy these wines to bring to restaurants with corkage programs.

1. Le Clos Jordanne La Petite Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007 VQA Twenty Mile 
Bench Niagara, +33944, $40 retail.
2. Hess Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Mendocino/Lake/Napa Counties, 
+25080, $23.95.
3. Greg Norman Estates Shiraz/Cabernet 2007 Limestone Coast South 
Australia, +586156, $24.95.
4. Masi Brolo di Campofiorin 2006 IGT Rosso del Veronese, +976092, 
$24.95.  







WORLD WINE WATCH (LCBO VINTAGES TIP SHEET) FOR JANUARY 9, 2010
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
By DEAN TUDOR, Gothic Epicures Writing deantudor@deantudor.com. 
"Wines, Beers and Spirits of the Net Compendium" is guide to thousands 
of news items and RSS feeds, plus references to wines, beers and 
spirits, at www.deantudor.com (since 1995). Creator of Canada's leading wine 
satire site at http://fauxvoixvincuisine.blogspot.com. My tastings are based on MVC 
(Modal Varietal Character); ratings are QPR (Quality-to-Price Ratio). 
Prices are LCBO retail. Only my top rated wines are here. NOTE: The 
LCBO does NOT put out all of the wines of the release for wine writers 
or product consultants. Corked wines are not available for re-tasting. 

TOP VALUE WHITE WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Stoney Ridge Dim Vineyard Riesling 2008 VQA Creek Shores: fleshy and 
flashy, good acid, but does not taste Medium Dry as Vintages indicates. 
+161208, $14, QPR: 90
2. Stonehedge Chardonnay 2007 California: good MVC value for the 
dollar, 13.9% ABV. +544841, $12.95, QPR: 91.
3. Anakena Single Vineyard Viognier 2009 Rapel: dry peach tones, 
excellent price. +45138, $12.95, QPR: 90.
4. Tabali Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Limari: herbs and minerals, 
13.5% ABV. +662999, $12.95, QPR: 90.
5. Cathedral Cellar Sauvignon Blanc 2008 WO Western Cape: very 
extenuated MVC at this price level, herby plus. +662718, $11.95, QPR: 
91.
6. Bestheim Reserve Vieilles Vignes Riesling 2008 Alsace: intense MVC 
from Riesling, medium body. +141176, $14.95, QPR: 90.
7. Chateau Coulange Blanc 2008 Bordeaux Sec: tart and grassy, food 
needed, very good value, 100% sauvignon blanc. +138750, $13.95, QPR: 
90.
8. Roux Pere & Fils Les Murelles Chardonnay Bourgogne 2008: only 
lightly oaked, useful value at this price level. +156455, $13.95, QPR: 
90.
9. Domaine de la Seigneurie des Tourelles Saumur Blanc 2008: baked 
fruit and some candied tones, but dry, good as aperitif. +141879, 
$12.95, QPR: 90.
10. Michel Gassier Les Piliers Viognier 2008 Pays D’Oc: delicious cream 
and fruit, apricot and oranges. +669531, $16.95, QPR: 90.


TOP VALUE RED WINES under $20 or so.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Loredona Pinot Noir 2006 Monterey: dynamite wine, good pinot noir 
tones, but Californian and priced well. +57620, $18.95, QPR: 90.
2. Paso Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Paso Robles: label says “bold 
character derived from stubborn patience”. 13.5% ABV. +161141, $19.95, 
QPR: 90.
3. Concha y Toro Trivento Reserve Syrah 2008 Mendoza: definitely 
Rhonish, value. Sip or with food. +663112, $12.95, QPR: 90.
4. Montgras Quatro 2007 Colchagua: excellent Bordeaux-blend plus syrah 
with engaging black fruit component. +50641, $15.95, QPR: 90.
5. Santa Carolina Barrica Selection Petit Verdot 2007 Rapel: good tones 
of saddles and chocolate. +7484, $14.95, QPR: 90
5. Vina Maipo Reserva Carmenere 2008 Rapel: weedy and best with food. 
+7663047, $12.95, QPR: 90.
6. Alkoomi Shiraz 2007 Frankland River: definite Euro-style wine. 
+138560, $14.95, QPR: 90.
7. Lindemans Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Coonawarra: twist top, 
good MVC, value at this price. +141994, $14.95, QPR: 90.
8. Chateau Arnaud Jouan Cuvee Prestige 2005 Premieres Cotes de 
Bordeaux: delicious, good wood aging, mid-Atlantic tastes. +138859, 
$14.95, QPR: 90.
9. Chateau Belle-Garde 2007 Bordeaux: typical Bordeaux MVC, value at 
this price level. +142372, $13.95, QPR: 90.
10. Albert Bichot Vieilles Vignes Pinot Noir Bourgogne 2007: you cannot 
beat this value for its Burgundian MVC. +43331, $16.95, QPR: 90.
11. Domaine Combebelle Saint-Chinian 2007 Midi: very Rhonish, priced 
well. +149658, $11.95, QPR: 90
12. Rouges des Karantes 2007 Coteaux du Languedoc: very ripe, warm and 
inviting, mid-Atlantic style G-S-M. +143651, $16.95, QPR: 90.
13. Cave de Tain Queen of Syrah Cool Climate Syrah 2007 Vin de Pays des 
Collines Rhodaniennes: a rarity here, from the North Rhone, only 12% 
ABV, meant for syrah lovers. +155283, $11.95, QPR: 90.
14. Chateau Armandiere La Fee Violine Malbec Cahors 2005: very 
pleasant, earthy, ready soon. Fleshy and tang on the finish. +147967, 
$12.95, QPR: 90.
15. Rui Jose Xavier Soares Mimo 2005 Douro: 30 year old vines, some 
depth and character, best with food. +147918, $17.95, QPR: 90.
16. Quinta do Roncao Reserva 2006 Douro: good North American style, 
full body, tastes off-dry. +147942, $13.95, QPR: 90.
17. Juan Gil Gos Monastrell 2008 Jumilla: juicy North American style, 
enjoyable. +94888, $12.95, QPR: 90.