The Wine Gods are taking pity on us in the Jan 6 2024 LCBO Vintages Release! As usual the first January release focuses on 'good value' wines' after all the opulence of the Nov/Dec releases!
Many of the featured wines under $20 are scoring in the 86-88 range, which for the price represent good value for a week-night-pizza wine. There are however a few worth highlighting in the Cheap and Cheerful Category that have a toe-hold toward the 90 point range.
The other good value wines recommended weed out the 88/89 point wines in favour of those scoring low 90s consistently - for the same price! Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay lovers will be particularly pleased, while the reds have something for everyone!
Lots to read this release folks so get going!
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What are LCBO Vintages Releases?
Every two weeks the Liquor Control Board of Ontario releases a selection of special wines they have chosen from around the world. They are not part of the regular stock that is replenished regularly. So if you see something that is good value you need to order it or pick it up while you can. And the best value wines tend to go fast!
To make it easy for you, Ontario residents can click on the wine title and it will take you to that specific wine. From there, you can select your store and it will tell you how many your store has in stock or how many can be ordered in. If you are striking out there you can check for availability in a store near to you or anywhere in Ontario. I have been known to recruit friends and family in far corners of the province to pick up wine for me! (Thanks - you know who you are!)
For folks outside of Ontario, these wines are available world wide so you can search for them in your local outlets.
Why You Want My Recommendations!
I firmly believe good wine doesn't have to be expensive. If you wander around the store looking at labels, maybe a few scores displayed on the tags or just default to an American wine off the shelf- I can help you get better value for your wine dollars!
There are lots of wines scoring 90 and above in the regular LCBO Vintages releases. I use my experience as an LCBO approved media taster and my knowledge of regions and producers to highlight good value wines. I have the opportunity to taste wines from all over the word as showcased in industry Master Classes and winetastings. As you build up experience you get to know which producers in which wine regions are reliable bets for your wine purchases. You can see more about my experience and qualifications here.
Sometimes I highlight what I call 'cheap and cheerful' wines. These are wines that are hovering around the high 80s to 90 point mark. They are not going to win gold medals in competition but they should be a solid choice for week night sipping or dock or deck sitting. They also make for a good value choice if you are serving a crowd and your lively guests are too busy chatting to discuss the depth and length of their wine!
The Best Buy wines I recommend tend to be in the $20-$30ish range. These are wines that score 90 or above. I research the reviews, I know the styles of the reviewers and I can sort out which wines are scoring consistently in the 90 + range and it's not some outlier of a score. You can expect these wines to represent the characteristics of their varietal and region well; display some complexity, depth and length. I suggest food pairings for many of the recommendations because... that is what it's all about here at The Wine Lover's Kitchen.
Sometimes recommended 'Best Buys' are wines without a score. They are wines that I know come from consistent, highly regarded producers or up and coming regions that are showing well.
Premium Wine recommendations are edging up on my $40 limit. These may be wines at the 'entry' level of prestigious regions or producers. They may be cellar worthy and they will be wines that you want to pay attention to when you serve them to ensure you appreciate their complexities!
Why stop at $40? It is a rather arbitrary level, but if you are spending more then $40 routinely on a bottle of wine then you are probably doing your own research and are involved in various wine endeavours and communities.
Your Chance to be a Wine Critic...
If you try a recommended wine - this is your chance to be a critic! Please share your comments so others can benefit! If you find another gem you would like people to know about add that too!
Fortified Wine Recommendations
GONZÁLEZ BYASS NUTTY SOLERA MEDIUM OLOROSO SHERRY DO, Spain Vintages #35204 $20.95 I buy this every year when it comes out... and wait for it... I use it for cooking more than anything! Jamie Drummond of goodfoodrevolution.com gives it a 4 out of 5 and describes toasted nuts, mocha, caramel and spice. It is Medium Sweet but balanced by acidity so - not cloying. It will keep a couple of weeks stoppered in your fridge once open (although for my cooking purposes I keep mine far longer.. counted in months.) Give these recipes a try - you won't be sorry! Sherried Tapas Meatballs, Lobster Bisque or Sherried Chicken Thighs. (MS - 68 g/L)
Sparkling Wine Recommendations
LA FLEUR DE FRANÇOIS BRUT CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX AC, Bordeaux, France Vintages #648170 $16.95 If you want a good value Sparkling for brunch, toasting or canapés, I found this one 'a delight' when I tasted it in 2022. It was clean with citrus notes, good length and balance. It was lively but there was no discernable mousse.. hence the price I assume. Score - 92 (Carolyn Hetke, thewineloverskitchen.com, Aug. 11, 2022) (XD - 9 g/L) FULL DISCLOSURE my 92 score was higher than the average high 80s it got from others....
Cheap and Cheerful Wines
The white wine winners in the 'cheap and cheerful' category this release:
MURIEL FINCAS DE LA VILLA BLANCO 2022 DOCa Rioja, Spain intages #645127 $13.95 A white Rioja can be an enjoyable thing and all agree this is good value and pleasant. 80% Viura and 20% Tempranillo Blanco, this will offer lime and minerality with decent structure and balance. Enjoy with Tilalpia with lime sauce. (XD - 2 g/L)
CHÂTEAU DE LA GRANGE VIEILLES VIGNES CÔTES DE GRAND LIEU MUSCADET 2021 Loire, France Vintages #637868 $13.95 Ahhh! Those of you who know me, know I consider this the 'work horse' of the lunch category. It is 'the simplest and most straightforward of Loire white wines' but it will deliver mild fruit with finesse and a salty note. Michael Godel of winealign.com gives it an 89 and notes some flesh and waxiness that add complexity and weight. Enjoy with Poached Salmon with Dill Sauce. (XD - 2 g/L)
SUTIL RESERVE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2023 Central Valley, Chile Vintages #35965 $15.95 Chile is starting to make a name for itself in the Sauvignon Blanc category with all that salty, sea air wafting about! This one is being well received as generally fresh and pleasing with shellfish. Look for tropical fruit with citrus and a hint of herbalness. Enjoy with calamari. (XD - 2 g/L)
FONTEVECCHIA VERDICCHIO DEI CASTELLI DI JESI CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2022 Marche, Italy Vintages #11140 $16.95 Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi will be well known to people of Italian heritage but it is starting to develop a reputation for a good value light, crisp white among the broader North American population. This one gets a 91 from James Suckling who describes lemon and grapefruit on the nose with some floral and chalky notes. Palate is medium-bodied with a nice balance of fruit and minerality. Enjoy with Milk Braised Pork with Fennel. (XD - 4 g/L)
The red wine winners in the 'cheap and cheerful' category this release:
CHÂTEAU GRAND ESCALION 2020 AP Costières de Nîmes, Rhone, France Vintages #18141 $13.95 Very few reviews for this one but I would give this Syrah/Grenache/Mourvedre blend a try based on the reputation of the Gabriel Meffre umbrella's attention to detail and quality in viticulture and winemaking practices. This is apparently fruity with some peppery spice and silky tannins. Pair it with soft cheeses or Creamy Mushroom Lasagne with Ground Beef. (XD - 4 g/L)
NIETO SENETINER MALBEC 2021 Mendoza, Argentina Vintages #32145 $14.95 James Suckling gives this a 92 and it is getting 90ish among trusted critics. Look for red and blue fruit with baking spices on the nose. Medium body with polished tannins, ripe berry character and a firm finish. Drink or hold [until 2027].Enjoy with Cassoulet. (XD - 3 g/L)
TARAPACÁ GRAN RESERVA RED BLEND 2021 DO Valle del Maipo, Chile Vintages #35970 $16.95 This 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Carménère, 10% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot blend is scoring consistently in the 90-92 range. Joaquín Hidalgo of vinous.com gives it a 92 and describes blackberry - raspberry notes with hints of black tea and spice. Juicy with tannins in play, it has a long, expressive finish. Sounds like a match for Beef Stew. (XD - 3 g/L)
SHANAHANS THE OLD DOG SHIRAZ 2021 Barossa Valley, South Australia Vintages #13030 $16.95 Previous vintages of this one score consistently in the 90-91 point range and it is hard to go wrong with Barossa Valley period. Melbourne International Wine Competition, 2023 gave it a 95. Vintages notes say to look for generous fruit and spice with good depth. Pair with Bar-B-Barn Copy Cat Ribs now or through 2030. (XD - 3 g/L)
CHÂTEAU DE MARSAN 2019 AC Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, France Vintages #446245 $16.95 This could arguably be in the Cellar Suggestions... Roger Voss of Wine Enthusiast gives it a 91 and calls it a 'wine for aging.' Bold structure, tannic core with powerful black fruit. He expects it to evolve and develop more spice as it ages. Drink now, but better in a year or two through 2030. When it is time enjoy with Roast Beef with Bordelaise Sauce. (XD - 2 g/L)
Good Value White Wine Recommendations
MISSION ESTATE MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022 Marlborough, South Island, NZ Vintages #17586 $17.95 This is scoring consistently low 90s. Rebecca Gibb of MW, vinous.com describes its 'green, firm expresssion'. Look for crisp acidity and fresh citrus. Enjoy with Garlic Goat Cheese Souffle. (XD - 5 g/L)
PETER ZEMMER PINOT GRIGIO 2022 DOC Alto Adige, Veneto, Italy Vintages #95802 $18.95 Pinot Grigio fans can look forward to this 'Best Buy'. Jeff Porter of Wine Enthusiast describes roasted apples, citrus and yeasty aromas with green pear and flint on a creamy palate. The finish 'pops' with 'tangy acidity'. Enjoy with Italian Inspired Cod. (XD - 2 g/L)
CATHEDRAL CELLAR CHARDONNAY 2021 Western Cape, South Africa Vintages #328559 $18.95 Tim Atkin gives this a 91 and says it is a 'great-value wine' from the Cathedral Cellar umbrella. Look for polished oak with fresh, tangy citrus and peach. Enjoy with Chicken Marsala. (XD - 2 g/L)
WILLIAM HILL CALIFORNIA CHARDONNAY 2021 California, USA Vintages #288555 21.95 James Suckling gives this a 90 and calls it a 'delicious' Chardonnay with California style brioche, cooked apple and hints of lemon. Medium bodied with a fresh finish. Enjoy with Ginger Crusted Roast Pork with Maple Mustard Sauce.(XD - 4 g/L)
ASLINA CHARDONNAY 2021 WO Western Cape, South Africa Vintages #33300 $22.95 Decanter World Wine Awards, 2022 gives this a 90 and describe baked citrus with nutty, brioche notes, vanilla and a limestone minerality on the palate. Enjoy with Artichoke, Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken. (XD - 3 g/L)
ALLAN SCOTT KEKERENGU MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022 Kekerengu Coast, Marlborough, South Island NZ Vintages #32552 $24.95 This is getting good reviws with MaryAnn Worobiec of winespectator.com giving it a 93 and describing Key lime and tropical fruit along with 'crunch sea salt' and herbal notes. Intense acidity on a long finish.(XD - 2 g/L)
Good Value Red Wine Recommendations
KOSKIL PINOT NOIR 2021 Patagonia, Argentina Vintages #34816 $17.95 I wouldn't expect this to be a classic Pinot Noir but if you are looking for something fruity and silky - James Suckling gives this a 93 and describes cherry, wild strawberry and light spice notes. Soft and silky tannins make it perfect for Smoked Duck Breast Salad with Pomegranate Molasses Vinaigrette. (XD - 3 g/L)
PESQUIÉ ÉDITION 1912M VENTOUX 2021 Ventoux, Rhone, France Vintages # 636159 $17.95 This scores low 90s year after year and it is an easy drinking, well made, balanced Southern Rhone blend. The 1912 M refers to the altitude of nearby Mont Ventoux, though this wine is from 20-50 year old vines at 300 meters which, is relatively higher than surrounding Southern Rhone regions. No oak treatments leaves bright fruit tones intact. Vintages notes call it 'a delight of balance, elegance and charm' with raspberry and cherry fruit along with complex undertones of thyme, and garrigue. Enjoy with Beef Bourguignon. (XD - 2 g/L)
THORN-CLARKE BAROSSA SHIRAZ 2020 Barossa, South Australia Vintages #33501 $17.95 It is hard to go wrong with Barossa period. This is getting 89-91 with a high of 96 from Panel, Winestate, Sept./Oct. 2022. (Winestate is a 3 person judging panel that blind tastes Australian wines.) Look for black and red fruit aromas with a rich fruity palate with chocolate/licorice undertones. (XD - 2 g/L)
SISTER'S RUN EPIPHANY SHIRAZ 2020 McLaren Vale, Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia Vintage #269464 $17.95 (Note that Sister's Run has managed to preserve their 'trademark' $17.95 price when other producers have raised historical prices by at least $2-3.) Sister's Run is always a reliable choice. Sam Kim or wineorbit.co.nz gives this a 94 and describes a rich nose with dark fruit, cedar and spice that mirror the palate. '..excellent weight and power' with velvety texture. How can you go wrong with this? Enjoy with Irish Whiskey Short Ribs. (XD - 4 g/L)
VISTAMAR GRAN RESERVA CABERNET/SYRAH 2020 Valle del Maipo, Chile Vintages #21466 $17.95 This is getting consistent 89-90 reviews and seems to have wide appeal among user reviews. A 60% Cabernet Sauvignon/40% Syrah blend with generous fruit and 'creamy tannins'. Patricio Tapia of guiadescorchados.cl gives this a 92. Enjoy with Marinated Sirloin Steak. (XD - 3 g/L)
DOMAINE DE LA MADONE LE PERRÉON BEAUJOLAIS-VILLAGES 2022, Beaujolais, France Vintages # 981175 $18.95 If you are fan of Beaujolais you will want to know about this one getting 89-91 scores consistently. Stuart Pigott of jamessuckling.com
gives it a 91 and describes generous black cherry along with the bright, liveliness expected of a Beaujolais. Soft tannins with a 'zesty' note on the finish. Enjoy with Boursin, Beet and Butternut Squash Tart. (XD - 2 g/L)
ZENATO VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE 2020, Veneto, Italy Vintages #995704 $18.95 Critics all comment on the clarity, purity and 'super-clean' aroma of this one. James Suckling gives it a 91 and describes spicy, red fruit with oaky notes. Well integrated and well balanced. If you are look for something medium bodied to go with your spaghetti or pizza, consider this one. (D - 7 g/L)
TAPIZ ALTA COLLECTION MALBEC 2020 San Pablo Vineyard, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina Vintages #450155 $19.95 Solid low 90s all around for this one from respected critics. James Suckling gives it a 93 and describes ripe blackberries and plum with baking spices and some underlying minerality. 'Sleek' with 'polished tannins' and good length. Enjoy with Montreal Spiced Lamb Chops. (XD - 3 g/L)
SIDEWOOD SHIRAZ 2020 Adelaide Hills, South Australia Vintages #446146 $19.95 This typically scores 90-93 ish each vintage. It gets a 96 score from the Winestate panel May/June 2022. Vintages notes call it silky, spicy and elegant wth lots of dark fruit, white pepper and herbs. Enjoy with Slow Cooker Hoisin Ribs. (XD - 2 g/L)
WAKEFIELD ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 Clare Valley/Limestone Coast, South Australia Vintages #744235 $19.95 Wakefield is another reliable choice. Tasting.com calls this a Best Buy, Score 93. Notes describe a complex nose with garden vegetal notes like tomato leaf along with aromas of cherries, fig, mint and nuts. The palate is lean and restrained. Full bodied and firm, enjoy with charcuterie or Wine Braised Oxtail Stew. (XD - 3 g/L)
UNDERWOOD PINOT NOIR 2021 Oregon, USA Vintages #421198 $23.95 If you are in the mood for an Oregon Pinot Noir this one gets a 90 from Michael Alberty of Wine Enthusiast, who calls it a Best Buy. Look for dusty raspberry and garrigue on the nose; strawberry jam with waxy dark chocolate and coffee notes. Crisp acidity with tannins still in play, plan to enjoy with a robust grilled steak topped salad or Coffee Rubbed Roast Beef. (XD - 2 g/L)
Premium Wine Suggestions
RENATO RATTI OCHETTI NEBBIOLO 2021 DOC Langhe Vintages #475913 $31.95 is a Barolo 'wannabe' and does represent good value. It consistently gets 90-91 among critics year after year. This one's hallmark among reviewers is its pronounced aromas of red fruits, herbs and earthy notes. Bruce Sanderson of winespectator.com gives this one a 91 and suggests a drinking window of now through 2028.
Or for a few dollars more explore an entry level Barolo.
SAN SILVESTRO PATRES BAROLO 2018 Vintages #377986 $33.95 100% Nebbiolo. It also scores 90-91 consistently among reviewers year after year. Look for ' ... cherry, raspberry, violet, leather, allspice and crushed tobacco'. Tannins are ripe making this a tasty wine with a 'lovely finish'. Score - 91 Decanter World Wine Awards, 2022 (XD - 2 g/L)
Enjoy either of the above with Ossoc Buco or Italian Milk Braised Pork with Fennel.
Cellar Suggestions
THIRTY BENCH WINEMAKER'S BLEND CABERNET FRANC 2020 VQA Niagara Peninsula, On, Canada Vintages #30073 $26.95 This won Gold at 2022 National Wine Awards of Canada with an average score of 92. Jennifer Huether, MS of winealign.com describes sage notes with sour cherry and red currants. Big and fresh with good acidity and elegant tannins. Tea, spice and flinty notes on a long finish. Drink now or through 2030 with Veal Shells with Marsala and Vermouth. (XD - 3 g/L)
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