Wine suggestions for small budgets
Or prooving that wine can taste good and not cost a fortune…
El Coto Crianza Rioja 2013
El Coto Crianza Rioja 2013
Dark ruby color. Nose of black berries, spices, smoke, vanilla and oak. Silky mouth feel where the oak flavors coats the fruit without any excess. The smoky and spicy notes with the vanilla with garnish the finish. Could get some air in a decanter to help the wine being even more expressive. Good+ (88)
Made of Tempranillo. Aged 12 months in new Amerian oak barrels, then 6 months before release. Alcohol level of 13%
Available in SAQ stores for 16,10$ (Code SAQ : 11254188)
El Coto de Rioja’s website: elcoto.com
Sample proposed by Les Sélections Fréchette: selectionsfrechette.com
Château La Lieue Coteaux Varois en Provence 2015
Château La Lieue Coteaux Varois en Provence 2015
Dark cherry red color. Nose of dark berries, spices, earth and herbal nose all in a fresh way. This got strenght on the palate with a good chewyness, but the silky moutfeel balance all that. Flavors are of the same profile as on the nose, quite enjoyable and helps making you want to pout yourself another glass! To pair with burgers of grilled meat dishes. Good+ (88)
Made of 35% Grenache Noir, 30% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre, 15% Cabernet-Sauvignon, 15% Carignan. Aged on lees in concrete tanks. Certified Organic. Alcohol level of 14%
Available in SAQ stores for 13,25$ (Code SAQ : 00605287)
Represented in Québec by Vins Balthazard: vinsbalthazard.com
Château La Lieue Coteaux Varois en Provence 2015
Domaine Tetramythos Roditis Patras 2016
Domaine Tetramythos Roditis Patras 2016
Lightly colored. Nose of apricot, lemon, white peach, sea breeze all in a rich yet really fresh way. Same profile on the palate, the richness and mouthfeel paired with the acidity and salty notes are really satisfying. This is quite a good QPR too. Good+ (88)
Made of Roditis. Aged 3 months in tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 14,95$ (Code SAQ : 12484575)
Tetramythos Winery’s website: tetramythoswines.com
Oenopole brings in Québec their wines: oenopole.ca
Barone Ricasoli Chianti DOCG 2015
Barone Ricasoli Chianti DOCG 2015
Dark ruby color. Nose of spicy red fruits, it’s inviting and charming, but balanced and shows true Chianti character. Round on the palate with a good acidity level, showing red fruits and spices flavors, this is a wine for food. This well pair well with many dishes, fulfilling your expectations at a very enjoyable price point! Good+ (88)
Made of Sangiovese. Aged in tanks. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 15,55$ (Code SAQ : 13188858)
Barone Ricasoli’s website: baronericasoli.com
Sample proposed by Vins Fins l’Agence: sdvf.ca
For other Barone Ricasoli’s wine tasting notes, look here
Ijalba Genoli Rioja 2016
Ijalba Genoli Rioja 2016
Lightly colored. Very fresh nose with lemon, sea weed and yellow melon. On the palate it’s a salty feel that opens the way to lemony and herbacious notes. Great acidity level, long and tasty finish. A really good QPR. Good+
Made of 90% Viura and completed by other varietals. Aged on lees in stainless steel tanks. Alcohol level of 13%
Available in SAQ stores for 13,90$ (Code SAQ : 00883033)
Viña Ijalba’s website: ijalba.com
Ijalba is represented in Québec by Charton Hobbs: chartonhobbs.com
Ken Forrester Petit Pinotage Stellenbosch 2015
Ken Forrester Petit Pinotage Stellenbosch 2015
Dark and purple color. Nose where earthy notes comes first, to let with air dark berry notes, mushrooms and spices show up in a warm and sunny feel. Flavors of black berries, wet earth, warm spices. Long lasting finish where alcohol shows without being disturbing. Good (87)
Made of Pinotage. Aged in tanks. Alcohol level of 14%
Available in SAQ stores for 14,90$ (Code SAQ : 11379749)
Ken Forrester’S website : kenforresterwines.com
They are represented in Québec by Valmonti : valmonti.net
Niepoort Rotulo Dao DOC 2014
Niepoort Rotulo Dao DOC 2014
Nose of dark berries, spices, earth, enjoyable green notes and red meat, all paired with freshness. Round and chewy on the palate, it still shows its structure that would pair well with grilled meat dishes. The flavors of black berries, spices, earth (no green notes here) leads to a long finish. A good wine really well priced. Good+ (88)
Made of Touriga Nacional, Jaen and Alfrocheiro. Aged 20 months in concrete tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 15,30$ (Code SAQ : 13088030)
Niepoort’s website : niepoort-vinhos.com
They are represented in Québec by Alivin Canada inc. : Alivin Canada sur Facebook
Juan Gil Pasico Monastrell-Shiraz Jumilla 2015
Juan Gil Pasico Monastrell-Shiraz Jumilla 2015
The bold and rich but drinkable wine lover are not alone. Real deal are not that commonly found too, especially if you seek for quality. May not be the preferred style for those who like light wines, this dark wine with aromas and flavors of ripe black berries, spices, meat notes will charm you without breaking the bank! It makes this wine then a perfect recommadation for the « affordable wine of the week»!
Blend of monastrell and shiraz grapes. Alcohol level of 14%
Available in SAQ stores for 11,90$ (Code SAQ : 12990152)
Bodegas Juan Gil’s website: bodegasjuangil.com
They are represented in Québec by Vins Balthazard: vinsbalthazard.com
Vina Ijalba Solferino Rioja 2014
Vina Ijalba Solferino Rioja 2014
Ruby color with purple hue. Nose of dark berries, spices, earth, just a little oak showing, it’s charming and quite rich. About the same on the palate, the mouthfeel is round, plumpy, tasty and have a good lasting finish. It does show some structure, but there’s the fruit to make it quite enjoyable. A great addition to the current offer from Ijalba. Good+ (88)
Made of 90% tempranillo and 10% maturana tinta. Aged 6 months in 1-2 wines American oak barrels. Organic certified farming. Alcohol level of 14%
Available in SAQ stores for 15,05$ (Code SAQ : 13004449)
Vina Ijalba’s website: ijalba.com
They are represented in Québec by Charton Hobbs: chartonhobbs.com
Podere Castorani Scià Puglia IGT 2014
Podere Castorani Scià Puglia IGT 2014
Dark ruby color. Nose of dark berries, spices, earth and dried flowers. Silky on the palate with fruit flavors, spices note, drinks quite easily and is very enjoyable, especially for its price! Good (87)
Made of sangiovese. Alcohol level of 13%
Available at the SAQ for 12,15$ (Code SAQ : 10966765)
Podere Castorani’s website: poderecastorani.it
Sample proposed by Les Sélections Fréchette: selectionsfrechette.com
Paco & Lola Lolo Rias Baixas 2015
Paco & Lola Lolo Rias Baixas 2015
Pale color with green hue. Very lemony nose with salty notes that brings up lot of freshness. Bright and also refreshing on the palate, this wine is tasty with flavors of lemon with a salty and enjoyable green touch. We want summer to fully enjoy this wine on the patio! Good+ (88)
Made of 100% Albarino grapes. Aged in tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 15,95$ (Code SAQ : 13089868)
Bodegas Paco & Lola’s website: pacolola.com
This producter is represented in Québec by Les Vins Dupré: lucdupre.wixsite.com
Cortes de Cima Chaminé Alentejano 2014
Cortes de Cima Chaminé Alentejano 2014
Dark cherry color. Nose of balck berries, spices, leather, aromatic herbs and something oily. Rustic on the palate at first, with just a touch of alcohol, there is fruit flavors, spices, some herbacious notes as there was some on the nose. Quite long finish, this wine is tasty and will make a perfect pairing with grilled meat dishes when the sun will be out and ready for summer! Good (87)
Made of 40% Aragonez (Tempranillo), 25% Syrah, 20% Touriga Nacional, 10% Alicante Bouschet, 5% Trincadeira, Tempranillo and Syrah. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 13,65$ (Code SAQ : 10403410)
Cortes de Cima’s website : cortesdecima.com
They are represented in Québec by Vins Balthazard : vinsbalthazard.com
Douglas Green Cabernet-Sauvignon Western Cape 2016
Douglas Green Cabernet-Sauvignon Western Cape 2016
Medium dark and slightly purple color. Spicy nose with dark berries, leather and grilled bell pepper. Smooth on the palate with a good amount of fruit flavors, it ends in a finish where a light bitterness and green pepper give some strenght. Drinks pretty easily. To pour over meat or lasagna dish. Good (87)
Made of Cabernet-Sauvignon from vineyards in Swartland and Robertson. Fermentation and ageing goes in tanks with French oak staves contact for 3 months. Alcohol level of 14%
Available in SAQ stores for 10,15$ (Code SAQ : 12383248)
Douglas Green vineyards website: douglasgreenwines.com
Sample proposed by VINS FINS l’Agence: sdvf.ca
Quinta do Pôpa Contos da Terra Douro 2015
Quinta do Pôpa Contos da Terra Douro 2015
Medium ruby with purple hue color. Nose of mixed berries with smoke, flowers, leather and meat aromas, very typical of this range of wines from Portugal, which I like! The wine shows some strenght but is not bitter nor rough since there is qualitative fruit flavors paired with spicy and leather notes, then ends in a silky finish. This is some rocking juice for its price! Good+ (88)
Blend of tinta roriz (35%), touriga franca (30%), touriga nacional (20%), tinta barroca (15%). Aged in tanks. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 15,35$ (Code SAQ : 13073065)
Quinta do Pôpa’s website: quintadopopa.com
Agence Boires represents them in Québec: agenceboires.com
Contea di Bordino Montepulciano-d’Abruzzo 2013
Contea di Bordino Montepulciano-d’Abruzzo 2013
Medium garnet color. Nose of berries, earth and spices. Rich and slightly sweet fruit flavors on the palate with just a touch of bitterness on the finish which last just long enough. This is a wine to take by itself, with deli meat plate or chicken. Good+ (88)
Made of 100% Montepulciano. Aged 18 months in oak barrels. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 14,45$ (Code SAQ : 10446874)
Represented in Québec by La Société Clément: societeclement.com
Michele Chiarlo Le Orme Barbera d’Asti 2014
Michele Chiarlo Le Orme Barbera d’Asti 2014
Medium dark ruby color. Nose of flowers, berries, spices and earth. There is on the palate an enjoyable acidity paired with fine bitterness, there is fruit and spices notes and this calls for food as it’s then that this wine shines! From deli meats to pastas or pizza, this will pair well. A wine that I like to bring over when visiting friends or family. Good+ (88)
Made of 100% Barbera grapes. Aged 6 to 8 months in 50hl oak barrels, 30% being new, then a minimum of 4 months in bottle prior hitting the shelves. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 16,05$ (Code SAQ : 00356105)
Michele Chiarlo’s website: michelechiarlo.it
They are represented in Québec by Univins: univins.ca
Tsantali Pathos Agiorgitiko 2014
Tsantali Pathos Agiorgitiko 2014
Dark red cherry color. Nose of red berries, pepper, wet earth, flowers. That is quite pretty. Flavors of red fruits, spices, there is in this wine a good acidity level and just a touch of bitterness. Could be paired with many types of dishes. Impressive for the price and a solid QPR. Good (88)
Made of 100% Agiorgitiko. Fermente in tanks and aged in oak barrels. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 11,20$ (Code SAQ : 12698531)
The producer’s website: tsantali.com
Represented in Québec by Amphora Vins Fins et Spiritueux: vinsamphora.com
Caliterra Reserva Carmenere Cabernet-Sauvignon Colchagua 2015
Caliterra Reserva Carmenere Cabernet-Sauvignon Colchagua 2015
Dark garnet color with purple hue. Typical nose of cabernet wines with balck fruit, spices, leather, then the carmenere kicks in with its nice green notes (far from the Quebec’s too often term of tomoto leaves!). Dry on the palate with a little bite from the tannins, this is quite enjoyable, especially for the price! Long and wide on the palate, balanced, not heavy at all and pretty tasty. Good+ (88)
Made of 58% Carmenère and 42% Cabernet-Sauvignon. 30% of the wine was aged 6 to 9 months in 2-3 wines old French oak barrels. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 12,95$ (Code SAQ : 12560523)
Caliterra’s website: caliterra.com
Represented in Québec by LCC Vins et Spiritueux: lccvins.com
Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda Clasica 2014
Altos Las Hormigas Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda Clasica 2014
Dark ruby with pink colored rim. Aromatic and fresh with its red berry notes, rhubarb, spices and earth, quite impressive and different! Goes the same way on the palate with flavors of red berries, a good acidity, a touch of welcomed bitterness, a light animal twist, but the earth and spices garnish the finish in the right way. Good+ (88)
Made of 100% Bonarda. Aged in cocrete tanks to keep the freshness of the grape variety. Alcohol level of 13%
Available in SAQ stores for 16,55$ (Code SAQ : 10893421)
Colonia Las Liebres website: colonialasliebres.com
Part of Altos Las Hormigas (which produces mostly Malbec wines): altoslashormigas.com
La Céleste Levure represents them in Québec: lacelestelevure.ca
Cono Sur Pinot Noir Reserva Especial Valle de San Antonio 2015
Cono Sur Pinot Noir Reserva Especial Valle de San Antonio 2015
Medium dark ruby color. Nose of branches, earth, ground cherries, berries and smoke. Fresh on the palate with flavors of red berries, a whole bunch of spices, it’s balanced, long lasting with just a touch of heat on the finish, but it doesn’t stop the wine to show its amplitude. Good+ (88)
Made of Pinot Noir. Aged 11 months in oak barrels. Alcohol level of 14%
Available in SAQ stores for 16,50$ (Code SAQ : 00874891)
Cono Sur’s website: conosur.com
Authentic Vins et Spiritueux is the agency representing them in Québec: awsmqc.ca
Sample proposed by the AQAVBS during a tasting to present wines for La Grande Dégustation de Montréal
Lavradores de Feitoria Tinto Douro 2013
Lavradores de Feitoria Tinto Douro 2013
Dark colored with purple hue. The wine shows aromas where the warm Portuguese climate can be feel, without any jammy cooked notes, rather being on nice black berries and spices notes. Chewy on the palate with medium softness, this would pair well with red meat dishes! Then flavors of black berries, spices and just a touch of flowers, this is tasty and is a steal at that price. Good+ (88)
Blend of Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional and Tinta Barroca. Fermented and aged in tanks. Alcohol level of 13%
Available at the SAQ for 14,80$ (Code SAQ : 11076764)
Lavradores de Feitoria’s website: lavradoresdefeitoria.pt
Sample proposed by Trialto: trialto.com
Campobarro Tempranillo Ribera del Guadiana 2015
Campobarro Tempranillo Ribera del Guadiana 2015
Dark color with purple hue. Nose of black berries, sweet spices, vanilla, earth and light green notes. Medium structure on the palate with flavors of vanilla ice cream, small berry cake and a light bitterness on the finish. This is pretty good for the price. Good+ (88)
Made of 100% tempranillo. Alcohol level 14%
Available in SAQ stores for 10,85$ (Code SAQ : 10357994)
Bodegas San Marcos: bodegasanmarcos.com
Represented in Québec by Bénédictus: benedictus.ca
Les Deux Clochers Saint-Pourçain 2014
Les Deux Clochers Saint-Pourçain 2014
Medium dark ruby color. Nose of red fruits like strawberries, raspberries and just a hint of rhubarb and peppery spices. On the palate, it’s all about fruit. Might sounds like a “cliché”, but is so good and easy drinking. No razor-sharp acidity, no heavyness, slightly rustic on the finish that brings up a touch or seriousness, otherwise it would be too fun to enjoy with restraint! Among my favorite wines of that specific style, since a few vintages already. Good+ (88)
Made of Gamay (75%) and Pinot Noir (25%). Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 15,00$ (Code SAQ : 00895953)
The producer website: vignerons-saintpourcain.com
They are represented in Québec by Sélections Oeno: oeno.ca
Weingut Stadt Krems Grüner Veltliner Kremstal Austria 2015
Weingut Stadt Krems Grüner Veltliner Kremstal Austria 2015
Pale straw color. Nose with lemon, saltiness, slighty green, also have rocky notes and lots of freshness! The acidity on the palate brings a biting twist to the wine, the the flavors of lime, green apples, it’s bright yet approachable and the salty and green side are still there, but I like it! With that type of wine, who would want this summer to end… Good+ (88)
Made of Grüner Veltliner. Aged in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 12%
Available in SAQ stores for 15,45$ (Code SAQ : 00532440)
The producer’s website: weingutstadtkrems.at
Dépôt des bières et vins Inc. Est est l’agence qui importe les produits de Stadt Krems au Québec : dbvins.ca
Velenosi Il Brecciarolo Rosso Piceno DOC Superiore 2013
Velenosi Il Brecciarolo Rosso Piceno DOC Superiore 2013
Medium dark purple color. Nose of black berries, a good load of spices, black earth and a hint of cedar wood. Even if the spices notes are quite bold on the palate, the berry flavors paired with the wine structure and silky tannins are not stopping the wine to clearly be enjoyable. Great wine to pair with food due to its acididity level on the finish. Good+ (88)
Made of 70% Montepulciano and 30% Sangiovese. Aged in one year old oak barrels. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available in SAQ stores for 15,85$ (Code SAQ : 10542647)
Velenosi’s website : velenosivini.com
Represented in Québec by Montalvin: montalvin.com
Doudet Naudin Pinot Noir 2014
Doudet Naudin Pinot Noir 2014
From a recent SAQ Cellier release, I was curious to have this pinot noir produced by Doudet Naudin and sold at a more than fair price, especially for a wine of that grape variety made in France…
Classic pinot light ruby color. Aromas and flavors are about the same with red fruit, berries, earth and spices. There is some acidity, a touch of bitterness, but more importantly, this wine is true to its variety. Might not have a lot of depth, but is enjoyable without being easy or too sweet. Well made. Good+ (88)
Made of pinot noir grapes coming from the la Vallée de l’Aude near les Pyrénées. Aged in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available at the SAQ for 16,95$ (Code SAQ : 12898823)
Doudet Naudin’s website: doudetnaudin.com
Divin Paradis is the agency representig them in Québec: divinparadis.com
Boschendal The Pavillion Chenin Blanc 2015
Boschendal The Pavillion Chenin Blanc 2015
Lightly colored. This wine from South African Western Cape region offers a nose of lemon, green apples, herbs, sea breeze and some flower notes. Fresh on the palate with a good acidity, then the crisp apples flavor kicks in with lemon and salty water making this wine enjoyable and interresting, especially at that price! Very good QPR. Good+ (88)
Made of 95% Chenin Blanc and 5% Viognier. Aged on lees in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 11,55$ (Code SAQ : 12698944)
Boschendal’s website: http://www.boschendal.com/
Vinicolor is the agency representing Boschendal in Québec: http://www.vinicolor.ca/
Clos du Moulin Bergerac 2012
Clos du Moulin Bergerac 2012
Medium garnet color. Nose of wild berries, plum, spices and smoke. Silky on the palate, the wine show more grip on the finish with spices and some green notes. Tasty but not heavy at all, this will pair from meat dishes in sauce to grilled food. Certified organic too! This is a very good buy. Good+ (88)
Made of 65 % Merlot and 35 % Cabernet-sauvignon. Certified Organic. Aged in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Just came in in SAQ stores and is sold for 15,95$ (Code SAQ : 12859728)
They are represented in Québec by Agence Boires: agenceboires.com
Donna Laura Ali Sangiovese Toscana 2014
Donna Laura Ali Sangiovese Toscana 2014
Dense ruby color. Nose of red berries, spices, earth and flowers, it’s fresh and inviting. Good acidity on the palate with slightly sour red berry flavors (cranberries, cherries), sweet spices and a touch of earth. This is the kind of wine that successfully delivers great pairing during meals, especially at that price! Very good (89)
Made of 100% Sangiovese. Aged 12 months in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
CUrrentrly available on pre-order from the SAQ’s website, but will be sold in store beginning August 11th for 15,15$ (Code SAQ : 12898305)
Donna Laura’s website: donnalaurawines.com
L’Enoteca di Moreno De Marchi is the agency that represents them in Quebec: lenoteca.ca
Ijalba Genoli Rioja 2015
Ijalba Genoli Rioja 2015
Lightly colored with freen hue. Fresh on the nose with lemon, minerality, some saltyness and herbs. Medium concentration on the palate, finesse is leading with lemon, fresness, mineral and a good finish lenght. Good (87)
Made of 100% Viura. Aged in tanks. Alcohol level of 13%
Available at the SAQ for 15,95$ (Code SAQ : 00883033)
Viña Ijalba’s website: ijalba.com
Represented in Québec by Charton Hobbs: chartonhobbs.com
Chevalier de Dyonis Pinot Noir Dealu Mare 2014
Chevalier de Dyonis Pinot Noir Dealu Mare 2014
Very light ruby color. Subtle nose of cherries and strawberry fruit, then earth and spices notes. Very light on the palate on the first sips, it narrowed over time on a rustic finish, helping filling the mid-palate that was a little thin. Still, this is enjoyable and fresh. We have to remeber that 10$ Pinot is hard to find! Good (87)
Made of 70 % Pinot noir and 30 % Merlot. Alcohol level of 13%
Available in SAQ stores for 10,95$ (Code SAQ : 00554139)
Made from purchase grapes in Romania by: serve.ro
Represented in Québec by Univins: univins.ca
Quinta do Vale Da Perdiz Cistus Douro 2014
Quinta do Vale Da Perdiz Cistus Douro 2014
Purple colored. Nose of dark berries, spices, smoke and mint. Velvety on the palate with flavors of black berries, spices and earth, avoids any heavyness but still shows some backbone. Pecfect week day wine! Good+ (88)
Made of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroc. Mostly aged in stainless tanks, but 20% of the wine sees oak. Alcohol level of 14%
Available at the SAQ for 13,05$ (Code SAQ : 10841161)
Quinta do Vale Da Perdiz’s website: qvp.pt
Represented in Québec by LBV International: lbvinternational.com
Sirius Bordeaux 2012
Sirius Bordeaux 2012
Dark cherry color. Nose of smoke, black berries, some leather, all in the classic Bordeaux perfume spirit. Good showing on the palat with a spicy and biting finish, but drinks pretty well being not too heavy nor too light with just enough strenght to pair well with many types of dishes. This one did passed the test of fast drinking bottles as it went down quickly! Good+ (88)
Made of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet-Sauvignon. Aged 12 months in oak barrels. Alcohol level of 13%
Available at the SAQ for 14,55$ (Code SAQ : 00223537)
Sirius is a win from the Sichel family: sichel.fr
Sample proposed by la Société de vins fins: sdvf.ca
Adega de Penalva Vinho Bianco Dao 2014
Adega de Penalva Vinho Bianco Dao 2014
Very lightly colored, almost clear. Nose of lemon, honey, flowers and green notes. Flavorful, balanced and medium long on the palate, offers an acidity level barely present with flavors of lemon, honey and flowers, the same as detected on the nose. Good summer wine. Good (87)
Available at the SAQ for 12,45$ (Code SAQ : 12728904)
Adega de Penalva’s website : adegapenalva.com
Represented in Québec by La QV : laqv.ca
Vina Alarba Grenache Vieilles Vignes Catalayud 2013
Vina Alarba Grenache Vieilles Vignes Catalayud 2013
Purple color. Nose of smoke, black berries, plums, warm spices and oak. Silky and charming on the palate with its pastries notes, vanilla, chocolate, fruit, spices and oak flavors. Will pair well with the brother-in-law or a juicy steak. Good (87)
Made of 100% Grenache. Aged in tanks then 2 months in French oak barrels prior bottling. Alcohol level of 14%
Available at the SAQ for 15,30$ (Code SAQ : 10856857)
Bodegas y Vinedos del Jalon website’s, producer Vina Alarba wines : castillodemaluenda.com
Sample proposed by la Société de vins fins : sdvf.ca
Château La Lieue Coteaux Varois en Provence 2014
Château La Lieue Coteaux Varois en Provence 2014
Red cherry color. Nose of mixed aromas of fruit, pepper, earth and herbs. Soft and sappy with its berry falvors, aromatic herbs and spices. Good acidity level and the finish is lasting more than most wines from that price range. An… organic deal! Good+ (88)
Certified Organic. Made of 35% Grenache Noir, 30% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre, 15% Cabernet-Sauvignon, 15% Carignan. Aged on lees in concrete tanks. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 14,90$ (Code SAQ : 00605287)
Represented in Québec by les Vins Balthazard: vinsbalthazard.com
Château Cailleteau-Bergeron Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux 2014
Château Cailleteau-Bergeron Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux 2014
Lightly colored with green hue. Nose of grass, grape fruit, fresh and very “spring” season like with its flower notes. Follows on the palate with about the same flavors and despite the medium acidity level, this wine does have some freshness to it. Will be at its best paired with cheeses of a meal with white meat. Good+ (88)
Made of Sauvignon Blanc (70%) and Sauvignon Gris (30%). Aged in stainless tanls. Alcohol level of 13%
Available at the SAQ for 16,65$ (Code SAQ : 10863281)
Their website: cailleteau-bergeron.com
Represented in Québec by la Société de Vins Fins: sdvf.ca
Ventisquero Yali Wild Swan Cabernet-Sauvignon Maipo 2014
Ventisquero Yali Wild Swan Cabernet-Sauvignon Maipo 2014
Dark color with purple hue. Nose of black berries, spices and oak notes. Medium bodied with a present rustic twist on the palate with fruit, spices and oak flavors. Quite dense for the price, perfect to go with your grilled dishes on this upcoming and the awaited BBQ season! Good (87)
Made of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Syrah. Aged 4 months in oak barrels . Alcohol level of 13%
Available at the SAQ for 11,00$ (Code SAQ : 12525437)
Yali brand website: yali.cl
Producer’s website, Ventisquero : ventisquero.com
Both names are represented in Québec by Univins : univins.ca
Bodegas Murviedro Agarena Utiel-Requena 2014
Bodegas Murviedro Agarena Utiel-Requena 2014
Dark cherry color. Nose of black fruits, nutmeg, smoke and wet earth. Flavors of black berries, spices, smoke, earth and raisins. Very affordable! Good (87)
Made of 70% Tempranillo, 30% Cabernet-Sauvignon. Aged in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available at the SAQ for 10,10$ (Code SAQ : 00620674)
Bodegas Murviedro’s website: murviedro.es
Sample proposed by la Société de vins fins: sdvf.ca
Jean-Noël Bousquet Terre à Terre Corbières 2014
Jean-Noël Bousquet Terre à Terre Corbières 2014
Ruby with purple hue. Nose of black berries, lots of spices with green notes. Medium concentration on the palate with fruit flavors, spices, herbs, leather and a little heat from the alcohol. Pretty good for the price! Good (87)
Made of 60% Syrah, 20% Carignan, 20% Grenache. Aged in tanks. Alcohol level of 13,2%
Available at the SAQ for 11,05$ (Code SAQ : 11374391)
More info about les vignobles de Jean-Noël Bousquet: vignobles-bousquet
Sample proposed by la Société de vins fins: sdvf.ca
Hacienda Araucano Carmenere Reserva Colchagua 2013
Hacienda Araucano Carmenere Reserva Colchagua 2013
Dark purple color. Nose of black berries, spices, bitter chocolate and grilled greeen bell pepper. Silky mouthfeel that covers some strenght and bitterness, all classical Carmenere caracteristics. May not be long, exactly like the remaining time before grilling red meat dishes on the BBQ in the upcoming warmer season. I’m hungry now! Good (87)
Made of 100% Carmenère. Aged 10 months in 1 year old oak barrels. Alcohol level of 14%
Available at the SAQ for 15,00$ (Code SAQ : 10694413)
François Lurton / Hacienda Araucano’s website: francoislurton.com
Sample proposed by la Société de vins fins: sdvf.ca
Château Vallon des Brumes Bordeaux 2011
Château Vallon des Brumes Bordeaux 2011
Dark cherry color. Nose of small black berries, spices ans smoke. Smooth on the palate with a touch of Bordeaux classic structure and flavors on par with those from the nose. Good acidity, not as powerful as Bordeaux usually are, probably due to the 2011 vintage. Drinks well from now, would pair well with beef dishes! Good+ (88)
Made of 80% Merlot, 10% Cabernet-Sauvignon and 10% de Cabernet Franc. Certified organic. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available at the SAQ for 17,00$ (Code SAQ : 10863070)
Le Château Vallon des Brumes is owned by les Vignobles Boissonneau: boissonneau.fr
This Château is represented in Québec by Authentic Vins et Spiritueux: awsmqc.ca
Michele Chiarlo Le Orme Barbera d’Asti 2013
Michele Chiarlo Le Orme Barbera d’Asti 2013
Dark ruby color. Nose of black and red berries, lot of spices notes, some earth and stays fresh. Fruit loaded on the palate with again spices and a touch of bitterness. Acidity brings freshness and paired with its structure, it allows this wine to be paired with a lot of dishes. One of my favorite wines when I go visit family and friends, especially when I don’t know what we’re eating. Good+ (88)
Made of 100% Barbera grapes. Aged 6 to 8 months in 50hl oak barrels, 30% being new, then a minimum of 4 months in bottle prior hitting the shelves. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 16,45$ (Code SAQ : 00356105)
Michele Chiarlo’s website: michelechiarlo.it
Represented in Québec by: univins.ca
Hacienda Araucano Syrah Reserva Lolol Valley 2014
Hacienda Araucano Syrah Reserva Lolol Valley 2014
Dark violet color. Powerful nose of black berries, spices and smoke. Flavors of dark berries, blue grapes, pepper, incense and vanilla. Has some strength, it’s young and tasty. Pretty good buy! Good+ (88)
Made of Syrah. Aged 8 months in one year old oak barrels. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 10,90$ (Code SAQ : 11975073)
Sample proposed by la Société de vins fins: sdvf.ca
François Lurton / Hacienda Araucano website : francoislurton.com
Tetramythos Kalavryta Achaia 2014
Tetramythos Kalavryta Achaia 2014
Mat and translucid cherry color. Nose of red berries, earth and quite present but fresh green notes. Rustic and fresh on the palate with good fruit and acidity level. Again, here is a greek wine that is original, tasty and worth buying again!
Made of Black of Kalavryta. Aged 9 months in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 13%
Available at the SAQ for 16,85$ (Code SAQ : 11885457)
Producter’s website: tetramythoswines.com
Represented in Québec by: oenopole.ca
Agricolas Aguaza SA RA DA Seleccion Almansa 2009
Agricolas Aguaza SA RA DA Seleccion Almansa 2009
Dark cherry color. Nose of smoke, small black berries and a handfull of spice notes. Powerfull yet controlled it does offer nice fruit flavors, some spices and a touch of smoke. The acidiy adds to its balance. Interresting wine and low priced, making this wine more attractive. Good+ (88)
Made of 60% Garnacha Tintorera and 40% Monastrell. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels. Alcohol level of 14%
Available at the SAQ for 15,30$ (Code SAQ : 12744816)
Producer’s website: agricolasaguaza.com
Represented in Québec by: sdvf.ca
Cortes de Cima Chaminé Alentejano 2013
Cortes de Cima Chaminé Alentejano 2013
Dark ruby color. Nose of wild berries, spices and earth. Smooth on the palate, quite tasty, drinks pretty well with a spicy finish. Well-made and offered at a very attractive price. Good+ (88)
Made of 40% Aragonez (Tempranillo), 25% Syrah, 20% Touriga Nacional, 10% Alicante Bouschet, 5% Trincadeira Tempranillo and Syrah. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 14,95$ (Code SAQ : 10403410)
Cortes de Cima’s website : cortesdecima.com
Represented in Québec by Vins Balthazard : vinsbalthazard.com
Video of Sandrine from Vins Balthazard agency with Carlos Ferreira from Café Ferreira while having this wine (in french only) :
Bibi Graetz Casamatta Toscane 2014
Bibi Graetz Casamatta Toscane 2014
Dark color. Aromas of black berries, bitter chocolate, spices and cherries leads the fruit notes on the palate. The wine is a little sweet and modern in style, but tasty and more fresh than expected. Good (87)
Made of Sangiovese (100%). Aged in french oak barrels. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available at the SAQ for 16,90$ (Code SAQ : 11372441)
Producteur’s website : bibigraetz.com
Represented here in Québec by : reserve-selection.com
Albert Bichot Le Bois des Chênes Beaujolais 2014
Albert Bichot Le Bois des Chênes Beaujolais 2014
Bright ruby color. Nose and palate of red berries, fine spices, earth, but mostly it’s its fruit concentration that is stunning for a wine of this price. Compares pretty well to a very popular wine here in Québec, but for much less. Good (87)
Made of Gamay. Age in stainless tanks for 8 to 12 months. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available at the SAQ for 12,55$ (Code SAQ : 12663194)
Albert Bichot’s website : bourgogne-bichot.com
Represented in Québec by : elixirs.ca
Moulin de Gassac Cuvée Elise IGP Pays d’Hérault 2013
Moulin de Gassac Cuvée Elise IGP Pays d’Hérault 2013
Black cherry color. Aromas of pepper blended with field berries and notes of smoke and leather. Fruity palate on a round, generous and silky mouthfeel. Might be a little too “charming” in style, but so tasty! Good+ (88)
Made of Syrah (70%) and Merlot (30%). Aged in oak barrels for 8 to 9 months. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 14,35$ (Code SAQ : 00602839)
Producer’s website : daumas-gassac.com
Samble proposed by : selectionsfrechette.com
Les Deux Clochers Saint-Pourçain 2013
Les Deux Clochers Saint-Pourçain 2013
Light ruby color. Aromas of crushed strawberries and field berries. Fresh and inviting. Lively and fresh with its flavors of red berries and clay notes, then a finish with fine spices bright it up a little. Medium long, but it’s so enjoyable, exactly what I did ! Bien+ (88)
Made of Gamay (75%) and Pinot Noir (25%). Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available at the SAQ for 14,50$ (Code SAQ : 00895953)
Producer’s website : vignerons-saintpourcain.com
Represented in Québec by : oeno.ca
Parés Baltà Cava Brut
Parés Baltà Cava Brut
Light gold color with fine bubbles. Not very intense on the palate, it still shows lemon notes with limestone minerality and green apples flavors. Good acidity level and length that brings up the rather thin mid palate. Not very complex, but fresh with an high drinkability level ! Among the best bubbly in that price range. Good+ (88)
Made of Parellada (58%), Macabeo (25%), Xarel·lo (17%). First fermentation in stainless tnaks then second fermentation in bottle following the traditional method. Aged up to 18 months in bottle before release. Alcohol level of 11,5%
Available at the for 17,45$ (Code SAQ : 10896365)
Producer’s website : paresbalta.com
Represented in Québec by : trialto.com
Coelus Joven Rioja 2014
Coelus Joven Rioja 2014
Translucid and bright ruby color. Beautiful aromas of red berries, spices and aromatic herbs. May seems simple, but still is pretty. Even more charming on the palate! Fresh, tasty and satisfying. Perfect wine for those who just to have a glass of wine and enjoy it rather than analyzing the drink!
Made of Tempranillo. Aged in stainless tanks after a carbonic maceration. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 11,35$ (Code SAQ : 12699091)
Producer’s website : grupoyllera.com
Represented in Québec by : valmonti.net
Telmo Rodriguez Mencia Gaba do Xil Valdeorras 2013
Telmo Rodriguez Mencia Gaba do Xil Valdeorras 2013
Ruby color. Aromas of field berries, cherries, spices and earth. Bites a little at the first sip, but its red berries and earth flavors are very tasty. Good acidity level, long finish with just a touch of heat. Very good (89)
From 100% Mencía. Aged 8 months in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available at the SAQ for 18,45$ (Code SAQ 11861771)
Producer’s website: telmorodriguez.com
Presenty at an event by : trialto.com
San Fabiano Calcinaia Casa Boschino Toscana 2013
San Fabiano Calcinaia Casa Boschino Toscana 2013
Medium ruby color. Nose of cherries, dry herbs, dry fruits and leather. On the palate it’s an explosion of Morello cherries! A bit dry on the finish, this wine stays on the light side and fun to drink without being flabby. Table friendly wine that will pair well with pasta and/or anything tomato dishes. Good+ (88)
Made of Sangiovese (70%) and Cabernet Sauvignon + Merlot (30%). Certified Organic. Aged in cement and stainless steel tanks (about 70% of the wine), the other part see oak for4 to 12 months. Alcohol level of 13%
Available at the SAQ for 14,70$ (Code SAQ : 12592832)
Producer website : sanfabianocalcinaia.it
Represented in Québec by : enoteca.ca
Château Eugènie Cahors 2011
Château Eugénie Cahors 2011
Dark cherry color. Aromas of earth, rocks, spices and dry herbs. Lots of freshness too. Hard not to like the fruit flavors of this wine blended with spices and minerals. To buy to go with your last BBQs of the season or to warm yourself while facing the upcoming fall. Very good (89)
Blend of 80% Malbec and 20% Merlot. Aged in stainless taaks and oak barrels for 12 months. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Available at the SAQ for 15,95$ (Code SAQ 721282)
Château’s website : chateaueugenie.com
Represented by and proposed by reserve-selection.com
Les Deux Clochers Saint-Pourçain 2012
Les Deux Clochers Saint-Pourçain 2012
When I’m particularly thirsty and just want to have some wine, it happens quite often that I turn myself to a Gamay based wine, not deep nor complex, but fruit forward. On a recent hot summer day, that’s exactly what happened. So I did opened a bottle of this wine I already had a few times and that had pleased me every time. Simple, fruity, fresh, good acidity level, drinks so easily in a style I like a lot. Very good (89)
Not available now at our favorite monopoly, I did enquired to the agency when it will be back on the shelves and it should come again soon. So happy to hear it, and it’s cheap too! Be aware and ready to jump on it when back at the SAQ.
Made of Gamay (75%) and Pinot Noir (25%). Alcohol level of 12,5%
Was available for 14,50$ (Code SAQ : 00895953)
Producer’s website : vignerons-saintpourcain.com
The agencey representing them here in Québec : oeno.ca
CVNE Monopole Rioja 2014
CVNE Monopole Rioja 2014
Lighly colored. Aromas of lemon, lime, it’s salty, mineral with notes of pepper. Enjoyable by its lime and grapefruit flavors, this wine if also bright, fresh and mineral. Served before the meal and paired with Halloum cheese grilled on the BBQ, this bottle was emptied in no time. Very good (89)
Made of Viura. Handpicked grapes. Aged in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Available at the SAQ for 16,35$ (Code SAQ : 12636760 )
Compania Vinicola del Norte de Espana (CVNE) website : cvne.com
Bottle proposed by lbvinternational.com
Casa Silva Reserva Cuvée Colchagua Carmenère 2013
Casa Silva Reserva Cuvée Colchagua Carmenère 2013
Deep purple color. Aromas of black berries, bitter chocolate, spices, wet earth and oaky notes. The typical and silky mouthfeel from the Carmenère with its chocolate and green peppers flavors are completed with the other aromas already there. Flavorful and have a good length. Can be paired with a meat dish of a vegetarian meal having green peppers in it. Good+ (88)
Made of Carmenère. 60% of the wine is aged in French oak barrels for 6 months and 40% in stainless steel tanks. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Casa Silva’s website : casasilva.cl
Proposed by : lbvinternational.com
Henry Marionnet Domaine de la Charmoise Sauvignon Val de Loire 2014
Henry Marionnet Domaine de la Charmoise Sauvignon Val de Loire 2014
Lightly colored. Aromas of citrus fruit, fresh pineapple and tree leaves. Bight acidity on the palate with a round and sappy finish. Flavors of grapefruit, yellow apples and a touch of minerality. Some freshness for the appetizer of a summer meal. Like it! Very good (89)
Made of Sauvignon Blanc. Aged in stainless tanks. Alcohol level of 12,5%
Site internet du producteur : http://www.henry-marionnet.com/
Échantillon proposé par : http://www.lbvinternational.com/
Velenosi Il Brecciarolo Rosso Piceno DOC Superiore 2012
Velenosi Il Brecciarolo Rosso Piceno DOC Superiore 2012
Purple color. Aromas of black berries, smoke, dry herbs, tomato paste and blueberry pastries. Silky mouth feel with just a little more grip on the finish with spices and fine bitterness. Nice fruit flavors and this wine is quite versatile at the table. Great value. Good+ (88)
Made of Montepluciano (70%) and Sangiovese (30%). Aged in one year old oak barrels. Alcohol level of 13,5%
Site internet du producteur : http://www.velenosivini.com/
Représenté au Québec par Montalvin
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