Selections from LCBO/Vintages Release – August 7, 2010

Dear Wine lover …there are some extremely nice wines available on this release. I have highlighted three top rated wines that are cellar worthy, 3 value reds under $20 and 4 value whites under $20. As always, I would love to receive any comments, suggestions, etc. Enjoy this great summer weather ....Greg

My selections for this Saturday’s release (Aug. 7th) are available three ways.
1. If you are the email list you can view on your BlackBerry or iPhone by scrolling down. If you are not on the email list, you can be added by sending me a note to: greg@thechefupstairs.com
2. Here on my Blog at http://chefupstairs.blogspot.com/ or
3. View via my postings on winealign.com where you can see the inventory available at your favourite LCBO. Click here http://www.winealign.com/my-wines/aug-7-2010-release

Amazing High Rating and/or Cellar Worthy Wines
Farina La Pezze Amarone 2006, DOC Veneto Italy
$31.95; #171587 Rating – 92
A great value in Amarone. Pair with classic autumn fare, grilled meats and rich stews. Drink now but will age well for another 3 to 5 years.

Shafer One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Stags Leap, Napa Valley California
$84.95 #45476 Rating – 92
An amazing full, rich cab with flavours that fills the palate and stay there forever. Expensive but worth it for a very special occasion. Best cellared for another year to beyond 2017

Tandem Auction Block Pinot Noir, 2007 Sonoma coast California USA
$29.95 #58776 Rating – 91
A new world style Pinot. At $29.95 many would not say this is a value wine, but it is, compared to other wines of the same style that typically sell for more than twice the price. Drink now and enjoy

Value Red Wines
Shingleback Shiraz 2007, McLaren Vale, South Australia
$23.95 #57844 Rating – 90
David Lawrason describes this wine as “quite elegant …medium full bodied, firm and dry with very good length. Drink now or cellar for up to 5 years.”

Concho Y Toro Trio; Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz/Cabernet Franc 2008; Maipo Valley Chile
$14.95 #433912 Rating – 89
A nice medium bodied value wine that is drinkable now. Throw some red meat on the BBQ and enjoy.

Bodegas Patrocinio Limited Edition Senorio De Unuela Reserva 2001, Doca Rioja, Spain
$16.95 #172536 Rating – 89
An excellent opportunity to purchase a fully mature light to mid-weight traditional Rioja with very good to excellent finish. Enjoy with rosemary lamb.

Value White Wines
Chateau St. jean Chardonnay 2008, Sonoma County California USA
$19.95 #421644 Rating – 90
A classic Sonoma style chardonnay with judicious oak. Very good finish and value. Try with classic roasted chicken or grilled salmon.

Loan Semillon 2006, Barossa Valley, South Australia
$16.95 #108092 Rating – 89
A fuller flavoured style of Semillon that is medium bodies. Pairs well with grilled chicken or a variety of fish dishes.

Pala Crabilis I Fiori Vermentino Di Sardegna, Doc Sardinia Italy
$13.95 #52058 Rating – 88
Try something different, with little risk. A refreshing crisp white that’s a terrific value. Try with roast pork.

Wild Rock The Infamous Goose Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Marlborough, South island New Zealand
$15.95 #164012 Rating - 86
A fresh, crisp and dry white wine that is a great everyday sipper. Chill well, then pour a glass and sit on the dock watching the sun set.