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Harvey Steiman's "Great Australian Reds" in October 15th Wine Spectator Magazine

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 16:18:00 GMT

Australia Turns Towards Elegance

Aided by a series of balanced vintages, winemakers are aiming for more refined reds

Australia's best red wines continue to evolve toward elegance, not only with the expressive, harmonious wines that earned my top ratings, but also with affordable and widely available bottlings.

This style is due, in part, to the ripe but not over-the-top 2004, 2005 and 2006 vintages, which produced the majority of the wines reviewed for this report. But it's not so much a matter of alcohol levels. Shiraz, which produces the country's top reds, gets big and ripe in South Australia; alcohol levels are seldom shy of 14.5 percent, and some can reach as high as 16 percent. Somehow, good winemakers make them dance like a running back rather than crash into you like a lineman.

I reviewed more than 500 Australian red wines in blind tastings in our San Francisco office over the past 12 months. Fourteen of them, more than ever before, reached "classic" status (95 points or higher on Wine Spectator's 100-point scale). As usual, Shiraz and Rhône-style blends dominate the ranks of the top wines. But recent warm vintages have produced some outstanding Cabernet Sauvignons, and even Pinot Noir is showing promise.

Clarendon Hills exemplifies this emerging trend. Though known for its single-vineyard Grenache bottlings, in recent years its Syrahs have become even stronger. Owner-winemaker Roman Bratasiuk strives for a European style to his wines, by hand-pruning and hand-picking the vineyards, fermenting warm with native yeasts and using extended maceration. He even calls them Syrah instead of Shiraz, the name that Aussies usually apply to the grape. The 2006 vintage seems to have played right into his hands.

The Astralis Clarendon 2006, Bratasiuk's flagship wine, is the top-scoring wine in this report (98, $325). A better value is Syrah Clarendon Liandra 2006 (97, $78). Velvety in texture and terrifically focused, this single-vineyard red sends out a laser beam of complex fruit and spice flavors that mingle effortlessly with fine-grained tannins through a long finish.

Joining these at the top of the heap is Henschke Hill of Grace Eden Valley 2004 (97, $625), but good luck finding this gloriously seamless, heady, single-vineyard Shiraz. Only 45 cases of that wine—and only 33 bottles of the 2003 (99, $625)—were imported into the United States. These are extreme examples of the biggest problem with the best Australian wines: limited quantity.

Of the 88 wines that scored 92 points or higher, only eight were imported into the United States in quantities exceeding 1,000 cases. We received a whopping 2,466 cases of Mollydooker Shiraz McLaren Vale Carnival of Love 2007 (95, $90), which has elegance to go along with its power. Mollydooker's smooth and generous Shiraz South Australia Blue Eyed Boy 2007 (92, $55) and Two Hands' vibrant Shiraz Barossa Valley Bella's Garden 2006 (93, $60) are the only ones that topped 5,000 cases.

But a significant number of more widely available wines are following the big boys' lead on style, and they deliver plenty of quality for the investment. The sweet spot for Australian reds falls around $15 to $25; of 158 reviewed wines in that price range, 43 scored 90 points or higher, and 60 more each scored 88 or 89 points. This range seems to produce wine after wine of substance and depth in a balanced, seductive style.

The polished Gemtree Shiraz McLaren Vale Uncut 2006 (92, $24) is a good example, a fleshy wine that still has some restraint. Rosemount GSM Show Reserve McLaren Vale 2005 (91, $25), a blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre, is generous with its plum and exotic spice aromas and flavors, lingering effortlessly on the open-textured finish. And the graceful 3 Rings Shiraz Barossa Valley 2006 (91, $20) has a purity and focus that's beguiling. Peter Lehmann Shiraz Barossa 2005 (91, $15) is round and generous; its lively cherry, tobacco and earthy spice flavors linger impressively on the focused finish. More than 20,000 cases were imported into the United States.

Rolf Binder, who makes seductive, expressive reds under his own name, also makes Fetish, a mid-priced brand worth seeking out. Fetish Playmates Barossa Valley 2006 (91, $22) blends Shiraz, Mataro (Mourvèdre) and Grenache into a smooth and decadent red. A 100 percent Shiraz from Fetish called The Watcher Barossa Valley 2006 (91, $22) is supple, generous and deftly balanced to show restraint. Under his eponymous label, Rolf Binder made the Heinrich Barossa Valley 2006 (91, $25), a black pepper-scented blend of Shiraz, Mataro and Grenache, with black cherry, blackberry and nutmeg flavors.

Other excellent values among Shirazes and Rhône-style blends include the Yalumba Shiraz-Viognier Barossa 2006 (91, $18), which shows a purity and clarity to the blueberry, plum and white pepper. Razor's Edge Shiraz-Grenache McLaren Vale 2006 (91, $13) is a gorgeous mouthful of ripe blackberry, plum, cherry and exotic spices, with hints of leather and brown sugar nibbling at the edge. And the Heath Wines Shiraz Barossa Valley Southern Sisters Reserve 2004 (91, $19) plays out its coffee- and cinnamon-scented fruit with surprising restraint.

The recent warm vintages have done wonders for Cabernet-based wines. A record 29 wines earned 90-plus ratings, showing more fruit and less vegetal character than in the past. Yalumba The Reserve Barossa 2002 (94, $125) and Jim Barry The Benbournie South Australia 2002 (92, $100) show a savory edge and more open texture than Aussie Shiraz.

Limited quantities are a problem here too, however, with only two of those outstanding Cabernets available in more than 1,500 cases. They are great values, though: Peter Lehmann Cabernet Sauvignon Barossa 2005 (90, $15) focuses on a nice beam of cherry and savory flavors, and Green Point Cabernet-Shiraz Victoria 2005 (90, $18) shades its juicy currant and blackberry fruit with hints of roasted meat and cedar.

Among notable new wineries to appear in the United States, First Drop and The Old Faithful made strong impressions in this report. Instead of New World or Old World styles, Matt Gant, former winemaker at St. Hallett, aims for what he calls "Next World" wines under his First Drop label: heady, complex and showing some grace. His Shiraz Barossa Valley The Cream 2005 (95, $100) explodes with cherry, plum and cream flavors. His lithe, easygoing and generous Shiraz Barossa Two Percent 2005 (91, $35), so called because it is 2 percent Viognier, shows agility and polish.

The Old Faithful, from John Larchet of The Australian Premium Wine Collection, bottles single-vineyard Shiraz and Grenache from some of McLaren Vale's oldest vines. The soft, supple Old Faithful Grenache McLaren Vale Northern Exposure 2005 (90, $40), made by Larchet's partner Nick Haselgrove, hangs a pretty range of blueberry and currant over polished tannins.

More familiar wineries have been introducing some new wines or changing the focus to other wines they make. Yalumba's new wines include some high-end single-vineyard Shiraz, but the head-turners are its Hand Picked MGS Barossa 2006 (92, $30), which delivers a plush mouthful of Mourvèdre, Grenache and Shiraz, and The Scribbler Barossa 2006 (90, $19), which blends Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz into an expressive wine with distinctive tobacco and black olive overtones.

Henschke responded to worldwide demand for its flagship but limited-quantity Hill of Grace by upping availability of wines such as Mount Edelstone Eden Valley 2005 (92, $110), a polished Shiraz with a velvety feel and gorgeous red cherry, pomegranate and mint flavors, and Henry's Seven Barossa 2006 (90, $38), a blend of Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Viognier, with distinctly peppery character carrying through from first whiff to final sip.

Penfolds' top three Shiraz bottlings are from different vintages. The current vintage of the most familiar Australian icon, Penfolds Grange, is from the 2003 vintage, which was extremely hot and made some over-the-top wines. Grange 2003 (94, $250) managed to play against that tendency, with freshness to its blueberry, plum and mocha flavors in a beautifully balanced package. The Shiraz Barossa Valley RWT 2005 (93, $82) is only a step back, with a lovely purity to the blackberry, dark plum and sweet spice flavors. Finally, the Shiraz South Australia St. Henri 2004 (90, $42) is a real bargain for the cellar: medium-bodied and distinctive for its coffee-accented blackberry and black olive flavors.

Also arriving are some of the first reds from 2007, severely limited by frost and drought in South Australia and Victoria. Some '07s fall short of previous vintages because they lack vitality, but deft winemakers found a way to make outstanding wines. Besides Mollydooker, Two Hands got some 2007s out early, such as its Shiraz McLaren Vale Angels Share 2007 (92, $35), a big, bold wine. Also look for Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir Australia 2007 (90, $20), which has the juicy blackberry and currant flavors balanced with lively acidity and fine-grained tannins to show what Australia can do with Pinot Noir.

Australia has edged out France to become America's No. 2 source of imported wine. Its currency has gotten stronger against the U.S. dollar, reaching near-parity, and that will put upward pressure on prices, but not as severely as the euro has affected European wine prices. The bottom line, however, is that so many Australian wines have so much value built in, they may still look like bargains.

Editor at large Harvey Steiman is Wine Spectator's lead taster of wines from Australia.

Harvey Steiman’s Recommended Australian Reds (in PDF Format)

September 2008 Classics Catalogue Now Available - Order Deadline September 10th

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 15:34:00 GMT

Vintages’ Newest Classics Collection Now On-Line!

The September Classics Collection is a veritable wine lover’s paradise. Of particular note are the dazzling white wines of Burgundy’s 2006 harvest, plus a selection of Grand Crus from the landmark 2005 vintage including several top names. Bordeaux is well represented by celebrated wines from vintages spanning more than a decade, many of which are hitting their plateau for optimum drinking. Hungary’s legendary Tokaji Asz from rvay and Kir?udvar are also not to be overlooked.Australian wine lovers can peruse an impressive selection from renowned producers such as Penfolds, Torbreck, and Clarendon Hills. Scotch aficionados have their choice of two formidable Single Malts from Glenrothes, and for the Port fan, a trio of mature Vintage Ports from Warre’s dating back to 1985. All this and much more await you.

For VINTAGES September 2008 CLASSICS Collection product listing plus order form and

full ordering details Click here.

ORDERING DEADLINE: 5:00 pm, Wednesday, September 10, 2008.

Two Hands Wine Featured in Sex in the City Movie

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 20:09:00 GMT

A South Australian shiraz has graced the lips of two of Hollywood’s hottest movie stars in the world’s most anticipated movie of the year.
The Sex and the City movie features a cameo appearance by Australian shiraz producer Two Hands Wines.
Harry and Edward’s Garden Langhorne Creek Shiraz, from Two Hands Wines’ Garden Series, appears in a restaurant scene with Carrie and Miranda (played by Sarah Jessica Parker and Cynthia Nixon) about three quarters through the movie.
Carrie and Miranda order a bottle of shiraz and the waitress brings them a bottle of the Two Hands wine. When the wine is placed on the table, the Two Hands Wines logo can be seen. “We had heard a whisper that our wine might make an appearance, but it wasn’t until the movie premiered in the United States that our distributors spotted the Two Hands Wines logo,” coproprietor of Two Hands Wines, Richard Mintz, said.
“It’s our understanding the film producer had tasted our wines previously and requested a bottle from our United States distributors to appear in the movie. “Our distributors first sent bottles of our Angel’s Share McLaren Vale Shiraz and Gnarly Dudes Barossa Valley Shiraz, thinking the names and labels might provide a point of interest. “However, they requested a cork-sealed wine in case the shoot required the pulling or showing of a cork, so our distributors sent them our Two Hands Harry & Edward’s Garden Shiraz as an alternative.
“They couldn’t have picked a more appropriate wine.”
Harry and Edward’s Langhorne Creek shiraz is named after Richard’s twin sons and the boys are thrilled that their wine has made it to the big screen.
Two Hands prides itself on producing luxury, iconic wines and has developed something of a following in the United States and globally with its range of super premium wines.

Vintages July 5th Argentinean Release

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 19:53:00 GMT

With Argentinean wines the highlight of the July 5th Vintages release, including four wines from the B & W portfolio, now is the perfect time to talk about Argentina.

Once considered the “sleeping giant” of the wine industry, Argentina has for a long time been the fifth largest wine producing country in the world exporting a proportionately small amount of wine to the North American market. Over the last decade, there has been a gradual shift in focus towards quality.

With the introduction of modern wine making techniques, including the investment in temperature controlled steel tanks and new-oak barrels, the Argentinean wine industry has reinvented itself, creating a new pedigree of higher quality Argentinean wines that resulted in an almost immediate jump in North American wine sales.

At the centre of this rapid growth is Argentina’s largest and most important wine region Mendoza. Located directly east of Buenos Aires, Mendoza represents over 70 % of the total production of wine in Argentina with over 360,000 acres of grapes planted - considerably larger in size to Bordeaux.

The most popular grape from this region, Malbec, is a varietal from Bordeaux that has found its form in the rich soils and high altitudes of Argentina. Known for its velvety tannins, fruit forward taste profile, and its capacity for great depth and varietal variation, Malbec has become Argentina’s leading grape. The recent meteoric rise in popularity of Malbec is often paralleled to the success of Australia’s Shiraz. This has been due to the accessibility of Malbec wines and to their often excellent value. Argentina has also had success over the last few years with other popular varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, and to a lesser degree Merlot and Syrah.

For an introduction to the wines of Argentina, Bodegas Weinert, voted Winery of the Year in 2007 by Wine & Spirits, and in the words of Robert Parker, the maker of “South America’s greatest red wines - the qualitative equals of the finest reds in the world!” is an excellent place to start. Founded in 1975 by Don Bernardo C. Weinert, Bodega y Cavas de Weinert is located in Lujan de Cuyo, Argentina´s craddle for top quality wines.

The 2000 Bodega Weinert Cavas de Weinert (Available in Vintages | LCBO#: 61226 | $23.95 /btl) is Bodega Weinert's flagship wine. Under its deep ruby tone is an enormously complex wine with mesmerizing sweet, voluptuous blackberry fruit flavours permeated by vanilla, cigar box, and saddle leather aromas.

Also available, the 2003 Bodega Weinert Malbec (Available in Consignment | 12 bottle case | $18.95 /btl) 92 Points, Wine & Spirits is one of Argentina's top Malbecs: traditional with a claret-like structure not often achieved in the New World. Deep colour with a hint of liquorice and big, jammy, peppery fruit. Great length, full-bored and generous.

Another highly regarded winery from Mendoza, Finca Sophenia is owned and operated by Roberto Luka, formerly President of Wines of Argentina. The prestigious Winemaker Michel Rolland, who is internationally recognized, collaborates as consultant of Finca Sophenia since the first vinification took place. The estate’s vineyard is located in the Tupungato district at an elevation of 4000 feet.

The 2005 Sophenia Synthesis Malbec (Available in Vintages | LCBO#: 63339 | $33.95 /btl) is part of Finca Sophenia's premium "Synthesis label". 90 Points, Robert Parker: "The 2005 Synthesis Malbec spent 12 month in new French oak. Purple coloured, it has an excellent bouquet of cedar, wood smoke, violets, black cherry and blackberry. This is followed by a medium to full-bodied wine made elegant style. Smooth-textured, ripe, and silky, it offers generous spicy flavours nicely concealing enough tannin to carry the wine for several years of further evolution. It should drink well through 2015."

The 2006 Finca Sophenia Malbec (Available in Vintages | LCBO#: 66837 | $16.95 /btl)is an excellent value wine from the Finca Sophenia label. The wine has intense deep red colour with violet hues. Complex aromas of plums and ripe cherries and violets. It is enhanced by the presence of dry fruits and mint hints. A wine of great concentration and complexity showing sweet and voluminous tannins.

The 2006 Finca Sophenia Merlot (Available in Vintages | LCBO#: 63412 | $17.95) has intense red colour. Great elegant aromas of ripe red fruits combined with herbs and mineral hints. It is a voluminous wine of wide sweet tannins. Vanilla and toast flavours appear in the aftertaste, conferring greater elegance.

By the case you can also buy the 2006 Finca Sophenia Cabernet Sauvignon (Available in Consignment | 12 bottle case | $23.00 /btl). It's an excellent example of the great things that Argentina has done with this varietal. Deep red colour. Intense aromas of red and black fruits, spicy and mineral hints melt with smoke and vanilla scents. A wine with complexity, structure and great elegance.

Winery Spotlight: Darioush Wines of Napa Valley

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:24:00 GMT

Recently we sampled the outstanding new vintage of Darioush Wines on a visit from our supplier and all we can say is "wow". Hearing the remarkable account of how this Napa Valley Winery was born only added to its appeal.

Darioush Khaledi, who was raised in the Iranian Region of Shiraz, first developed his passion for wine as a 6-year old boy, sneaking sips from the barrel in his father’s wine cellar, by wringing a wine-soaked towel into his mouth.

Today, that childhood memory is enshrined by a waterfall at the centre of Darioush’s lavish 22,000 square foot winery and visitor centre on the Silverado trail of eastern Napa Valley. Modelled after the Persian city of Persepolis, and built using travertine stones imported from Iran that were cut and polished in Italy, Darioush Khaledi has built the ultimate monument both to his love of wine and to his Persian heritage.

Since immigrating to the United States in 1976, Khaledi developed as successful business opening a chain of supermarkets across California. During that time his passion for Bordeaux wine was shaped into the dream of opening a winery.

In the early 1990’s he began his search for the quintessential winery property, culminating in the purchase of the vacated Altamura Winery site in 1997. Since that time, the 39 acres vineyard site has expanded to over 90 acres that include Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay and Viognier.

With the leadership of Darioush winemaker Steve Devitt, Khaledi has employed an old-world style of wine making, allowing the full expression of the grapes on the vines with minimal intervention. The result are wines that blend the elegance of Bordeaux with a rich California ripeness.

The first vintage of the Darioush Signature Cabernet Sauvignon – their flagship wine, earned Darioush a score of 92 in Wine Spectator, and their Chardonnay has consistently earned Wine Spectator scores over 90.

If you would like to experience the wines, here is summary of current availability:

2005 Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon (6 bottle case | $99.95 /btl). Score: 93 Points "Once again, Darioush races to the top of the listings with a big, rich, hedonistically overachieving Cabernet, but unlike last year’s 3 star winner, this one is somewhat tighter and age-demanding than its predecessor. It is in the nature of the 2005 vintage that it seems to produce somewhat less lush, plush wines, and there are those who will applaud and those who will miss the genuine juiciness of Darioush’s 2004. Because this wine seems to have a foot in two camps, we see more to like in the 2004, but there is no reason not to like this one as well." Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine
2005 Signature Series Cabernet Franc (6 bottle case | $ 75.00 /btl). As a classic Bordeaux varietal, Cabernet Franc imparts such intensity of fruit and dark earthy components when blended into our Signature Cabernet Sauvignon. On its own, it possesses power with great poise. Introduced by vibrant aromas of blackberry, cherry and bittersweet chocolate, the 2005 vintage is focused and intense. A saturated palate showcases flavours of loganberry and kirsch liqueur, while firm tannins suggest oolong tea, cedar and tobacco.
2005 Signature Series Shiraz (6 bottle case | approx $ 90.00 /btl ). Crafted to balance the fruit complexity, structure and age-worthiness of this ancient varietal, the 2005 Signature Shiraz accomplishes this feat. Grown on vines cloned from 50% old-vine Australian Shiraz and 50% Northern Rhone Syrah, the finished wine stays true to its inherently spicy and seductive spirit. Introduced by alluring fragrances of dried orange peel, rose hips and white pepper, the 2005 Signature Shiraz is plush, yet focused. Layered flavours of spicy licorice, ripe blackberry and bittersweet chocolate support a balanced and delineated mouth feel. Subdued oak and well-integrated tannins are revealed on a finish, accented by hints of vanilla bean, cedar and star anise.
2005 Estate Caravan Cabernet Sauvignon (12 bottle case | $47.95 /btl). Juicy flavours of ripe berries, cherries and plum mingle with hints of cola, chocolate and coffee. Abundant Petit Verdot lends a violet floral note while Malbec adds a juicy blueberry finish. This Cabernet is youthful but approachable with a soft palate and lingering finish.

New Release: Antigua Distillery English Harbour Five Year Aged Rum

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 20:37:00 GMT

"There’s nought no doubt so much the spirit calms as rum and true religion" – Lord Byron

It may be interesting to learn that Rum, which is made through the distillation of molasses - itself the by-product of the sugar-making process is very much like wine in that its flavour profile and quality are directly related to its craft, tradition and terroir.

Depending on how the rum is distilled (pot still or column), if it is oak aged or carbon filtered, the length of aging, as well as the inherent qualities of the sugar cane used in the making of the rum, it can result in a rum of varying complexity, flavour and regional characteristics.

To experience how complex and flavourful this noble spirit is capable of being, the Antigua Distillery English Harbour Five Year Rum (LCBO# 58792 | $29.95 /btl), which will be released to Vintages on May 10th, is the perfect opportunity. Awarded the gold medal for two consecutive years at the prestigious San Francisco Spirits Competition, and voted one of “Top 10 Most Remarkable Rums” by Forbes Magazine, only confirms that the English Harbour Rum is one of the finest in the world.

Originally produced in Antigua by a conglomerate of estate owners dating back to the early 19th century, the Antigua Distillery was officially formed from this partnership back in 1934. Their rum is produced with a skilful combination of premium ingredients, traditional distillation in copper sills, modern technology, and fine, charred American oak casts.

Among its major accolades, Wine Enthusiast recently awarded the English Harbour Five Year Rum its highest score (96-100 points). “The bouquet sparkles with notes of bark, oak, brown sugar, bacon fat, sauteed banana and maple. The palate entry is creamy, toffee-like and silky; the mid palate offers flavours of pastry, chocolate fudge, nougat, chestnut and honey. Finishes harmoniously with the sweet flavour gracefully melded to the texture. A perfect oak-aged molasses rum.”

Its flavours are so remarkable you can drink it neat, with a little ice, with water, or with any of the world’s most popular mixers, especially coconut water or ginger ale.

For more information about the history of rum, reviews or rum recipes, you can visit The Ministry of Rum, a website dedicated to the understanding and appreciation of this noble spirit. You can also visit the Antigua Distillery Website, or click here for tasting note.

Regional Spotlight: Israeli Wine

Sun, 25 May 2008 20:46:00 GMT

When we think about Israeli wine it is difficult not to imagine the sweet syrupy Mogen David and Manishewitz wines, traditionally served on the holiday table. What may surprise you is that Israel has developed a wine industry making first class wines, for any occasion. Wines are made from a variety of grapes, and compete with wines produced in countries all over the world.

Israeli winemakers have gone to great lengths over the last few years to shed Israel’s image as a producer of simple sweet wines. As a testament to this trend, this year marked the first time that Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate turned its attention to Israeli wines, awarding 14 wines with a score of over 90 points, with many of the highest scores going to Kosher wines.

Robert Parker says “Wine has been made in the Holy Land for millennia, but Israel's wineries have come into the modern age since the 1980. The region's wines are getting better all the time, and some are superb."

Israel is also the largest producer of Kosher wine sold worldwide. In actuality, Kosher wines are made exactly the same way, using the same grapes and equipment as other tables wines, with an extra set of rules added to make it consistent with Jewish dietary law. Basically, the entire winemaking process from picking to bottling must be handled by Sabbath-observant orthodox Jews, the equipment used in the winemaking process must be rabbinically certified and no preservatives, meat products or artificial colours may be added. These are nuances that have no effect on the end product. Wine writers often use the symbol K to indicate that a wine is Kosher. With that in mind, choosing a wine for the Passover Seder, if Kosher for Passover is a requirement, very much becomes a matter of taste. Below is a list of Passover wines available right now:

2003 Ella Valley Merlot (Available at Vintages #58891 | $28.95 /btl) - Produced from 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, this estate bottled red is harvested from vines within the northern slopes of the Ella Valley Vineyards. Aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, Ella Valley Merlot exudes concentrated notes of berries with layered fruit flavours, concluding in a velvety, smooth finish. Rogov, Guide to Israeli Wines 2008 - Score 90
2003 Ella Valley Cabernet Sauvignon(12 bottle case | $36.70 btl) Produced from 100% select Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, this expertly crafted red has been aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, half of which are new. Deep ruby in colour, this estate bottled Cabernet is characterized by rich fruit, supple body, depth and complexity.
2005 Ella Valley Chardonnay (12 bottle case | $31.25 /btl) Made from 100% Chardonnay grapes. 60% harvested from Ella Valley Vineyards' Aderet vineyard, 40% harvested from the Nes-Harim vineyard.
2003 Ella Valley Muscat (12 bottle case | $22.95 /btl) Medium-bodied, with honeyed sweetness set off nicely by lively acidity, the wine offers generous and ripe apricot, peach and dried apple fruits matched nicely by spices and floral aromas and flavors. Equally good as an aperitif.
Golan Heights Winery Yarden Mount Herman Red (Available at Vintages #611293 | $15.60 /btl) Yarden Mount Hermon was produced from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with a small amount of Cabernet Franc, all grown in the Golan Heights. The cool climate, rocky volcanic soil and high altitude are ideal conditions for growing classic wine grape varieties. Moderately early pressing yields a wine with good colour and ample fruit that can be enjoyed without extensive aging. To preserve the quality of the wine, this bottle should be stored on its side in a cool, dark place. Best served at 55-60 degrees.
Golan Heights Winery 2003 Yarden Pinot Noir (Available in Vintages #60756 | $21.95 /btl)Yarden Pinot Noir was produced entirely from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Golan Heights. The cool climate, rocky volcanic soil and high altitude are ideal conditions for growing classic wine grape varieties. Aging in French oak barrels for 16 months yields an elegant, complex wine layering fruit, floral and spice characters with that of rich oak and nuances of vanilla. To preserve the quality of the wine, this bottle should be stored on its side in a cool, dark place. Rogov, Guide to Israeli Wines 2008 - Score 91
Golan Heights Winery 2005 Yarden Viognier (Available in Vintages #58883 | $22.95 /btl) Yarden Viognier was produced entirely from Viognier grapes grown in the Golan Heights. The cool climate, rocky volcanic soil and high altitude are proving ideal for this classic northern Rhone Valley variety. Fermentation of one third of the wine was in stainless steel and two thirds were in French oak, yielding a wine with generous fruit, good body and satisfying complexity. Best served at 55 degrees F. Rogov, Guide to Israeli Wines 2008 - Score 90

Winery Spotlight: Langmeil Winery

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 20:47:00 GMT

If you visited Langmeil Wines in the heart of the Barossa Valley, with its many historic buildings as backdrop for its world-class wine-making operation, it is easy to see that this is a winery steeped in tradition with tremendous pride in its heritage.

The history of the Langmeil property dates back to 1843 when the German settlement was first established on the site, in an area adjacent to the North Para River along what is today known as Langmeil Road. The ironstone buildings, stables and village well that still stand to this day act as monuments to its well preserved history.

What also stands is the winery, built in 1932 and purchased in 1996 by three locals - Richard Lindner, Chris Bitter and Carl Lindner - who refurbished the winery, restored the old buildings, and named it Langmeil, after the original village. They set to the task of preserving the original vines that still remained, albeit neglected, and released their first vintage in 1997.

Today, more than 30,000 cases of wine are produced annually at Langmeil, with premium red wines making up over 80% of its processing. Their flagship shiraz, called The Freedom, is from the original vines first planted in 1843 and believed to be the oldest surviving pre-phylloxera Shiraz vines in Australia. These dry-grown, hand-picked, hand-pruned old vines yield less than two tons per acre and produce fruit with intense flavour and colour.

Langmeil dry grows many of its own vineyards and encourages its growers to do the same. Because they are not irrigated, the vines search for water and push their roots deep into the ground. Thus they produce fruit of outstanding quality, with depth, colour and flavour not found in other, irrigated vines.

The following Langmeil Wines are available for ordering by the case right now, with more great wines available through Vintages in the Fall 2008:

2006 Earthworks Shiraz (12 bottle case | $19.95 /btl) - A medium bodied, tart and lightly sweet Shiraz that Jay Miller from Wine Advocate called a "suburb value" (90 pts)
2006 Valley Floor Shiraz (12 bottle case | $31.95 /btl) - A blend of old and new Shiraz vines sourced from the Barossa’s Valley Floor. It's a wine made to enjoy now but will reward the patient wine lover for up to ten years.
2005 Freedom Shiraz (6 bottle case | $106.00 / btl) - From the dry-grown vineyard planted in 1843. "Surprisingly light on its feet, the wine is full-flavored, opulent, and very long." Robert Parker, 94 pts - Limited quantites available

Winery Spotlight: Clarendon Hills

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 20:48:00 GMT

Roman Bratasiuk has been at the forefront of winemaking in Australia since 1990. Located in McLaren Vale, South Australia, his winery produces only 800 to 1000 cases from each of his 16 single vineyards planted with the oldest vines of Grenache, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon aged between 70 to 100 years.

Robert Parker: “Roman Bratasiuk is one of Planet Earth's greatest winemakers and obviously a top-notch viticulturist given his obsession with sourcing extraordinary fruit from ancient McLaren Vale vineyards. If Penfolds Grange has been the most legendary wine in Australia, my instincts suggest that in the future, if any winery surpasses Grange, it will be made by Roman Bratasiuk of Clarendon Hills in McLaren Vale."

Unlike many of the best Australian wines, Bratasiuk's influences, more than most of his peers, have been formed by his love of French wine. He has invested enormously in a state-of-the-art winery, secured some of the finest old vine Grenache and Syrah vineyards in McLaren Vale, and to his credit, believes in aging everything in more subtle French oak, which certainly puts him among the minority of Australian producers, who believe the more aggressive, sometimes overwhelming characteristics of American oak are better suited for their wines. His wines are all made from incredibly low yields, fermented with indigenous yeasts, and bottled with no fining nor filtration.

For a limited time, Vintages is offering a rare opportunity to purchase magnums of their brilliant 2004 vintage. These magnum bottles have an even greater potential for long-term cellaring than the standard 750ml size. Here are the wines being offered:

2004 Astralis Syrah (LCBO# 70144 | $875.00 /btl) Clarendon Hills’ flagship Syrah "boasts off the charts intensity as well as an opaque purple color, and notes of spring flowers, blueberries, blackberries, roasted coffee beans, pepper, smoke, and a hint of sweet toasty oak." Robert Parker 98
2004 Brookman Syrah (LCBO# 70128 | $215.00 /btl) "A black, sexy beast, the 2004 Syrah Brookman offers up amazingly full-bodied, intense, blackberry fruit intermixed with notions of roasted coffee, flowers, and creme de cassis." Robert Parker 95
2004 Hickinbotham Cabernet Sauvignon (LCBO# 70169 | $175 /btl) "offers up aromas of creme de cassis, graphite, chocolate, coffee, and tobacco leaves. This powerful, rich, full-bodied effort needs at least 4-5 years of cellaring, and should keep for two decades or more. Robert Parker 94
2004 Hickinbotham Syrah (LCBO# 70094 | $210.00 /btl) "One of McLaren Vale’s most astonishing Syrahs...Its inky/blue/purple hue is accompanied by aromas and flavors of creme de cassis, smoked meats, melted licorice, coffee beans, graphite, and bacon fat. Extremely full-bodied, powerful, and rich, with moderately high tannin, huge structure as well as massive concentration and intensity, but a sense of elegance, balance, and equilibrium" Robert Parker 95
2004 Moritz Syrah (LCBO# 70094 | $175.00 /btl) "An amazing performance.....Gorgeous aromas of flowers, blueberries, cassis, and meat jump from the glass of this cuvee. With huge body and a rich, intense style. Robert Parker 95
2004 Piggot Range Syrah (LCBO# 70136 | $450.00 /btl) "This is a powerful, intense Syrah meant for true connoisseurs who have cold cellars as well as enough patience to wait it out. A perfume of crushed rocks, acacia flowers, blackberries, roasted coffee, pepper, spice, bacon fat, and a subtle touch of eucalyptus is followed by a deep, rich, full-bodied wine that should age for 20-25 years" Robert Parker 95
2004 Romas Grenache (LCBO#70177 | $215.00 /btl) "The estate’s flagship Grenache...exhibits gorgeous notes of loamy soil, truffles, kirsch, spice box, blackberries, and licorice." Robert Parker 94
2004 Sandown Cabernet Sauvignon (LCBO# 70151 | $157.00 /btl) "Super-concentrated, intense, and black as a moonless night.....full-bodied, powerful, rich, impressive Cabernet" Robert Parker 94

World-Renowned Winemaking team Stephen and Prue Henschke come to Toronto

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 20:49:00 GMT

In early February, B & W Wines proudly welcomes Stephen and Prue Henschke, the winemaking tandem for Henschke. A family run Australian winery since its inception in 1861, Henschke is considered one of the world’s premier wineries and is most renowned for its Hill of Grace Shiraz – coveted by wine collectors everywhere, and described by Robert Parker as "one of Australia's benchmarks for Shiraz".

Since 1861 the Henschke family has built a reputation as one of Australia's most highly respected wineries. Today, fifth-generation Stephen Henschke and his wife Prue uphold the family name and reputation, as winemaker and viticulturalist respectively. The highly revered and much sought-after Hill of Grace is the pinnacle of the red wines - but another Shiraz first made by his father Cyril, the Mount Edelstone, and the Cyril Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon introduced by Stephen as a tribute to his father - have forged their own niche with wine lovers.

Prue's meticulous viticultural management has seen not only new life breathed into the venerable vineyards, but also a new direction given to white wine making that their forebears could never have imagined. For instance Riesling from both Eden Valley and the newer Lenswood vineyard are contributing to the re-emergence of this classic variety, while research developments in colour and flavour have led to enormous improvements in quality in the Keyneton Estate and Mount Edelstone wines through improved trellising and fruit exposure.

On February 2nd Vintages will be releasing an extensive line-up of Henschke wines (see B & W Wines Tasting event below), which can be viewed on the Henschke website. If would like to try their wines now, here is the current selection available at Vintages:

The 2005 Lenswood Littlehampton Innes Pinot Gris (LCBO# 656280 | $42.95 /btl), Alsace styled, dry and fullbodied with exuberant fruit. Robert Parker says "may be the finest Pinot Gris in Australia" - 90 points.
The 2005 Tilly's Vineyard Sem Chard Sauv Blanc (LCBO# 656264 | $24.95 /btl) is softly textured with juicy stone-fruits, a nice mouth feel and a long crisp finish. Robert Parker 91
The 2005 Lenswood Croft Chardonnay (LCBO#: 656272 | $55.30 /btl), a complex Chardonnay with hints of honey yogurt and cashew nut. A rich, unctuous, creamy palate of quince, grapefruit and clove, with great structure, excellent length and depth.
The 2003 Keyneton Estate Shiraz Cab Merlot (LCBO#: 720433 | $51.95 /btl), is sweet, rich ripe and lush on the palate with great intensity and structure. Fleshy in texture, the wine has excellent depth and complexity with powdery tannins. Robert Parker 89.