Eberle 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon

Nice fruit and lots of heat for a Cab. Very little complexity - what you taste is what you get. Nothing that you cant get elsewhere. Available at LCBO. Recommendation: don't be afraid to buy a copy, but a case is overkill.

Harbour Estates 2001 Reserve Chardonnay

A very nicely oaked Chardonnay with some tart notes. Good as accompaniment, but I didnt find it was quite as nice sipped by itself. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: You can do better. Give it a pass.

Georges Duboeuf 2007 Beaujolais

A light-bodied Beaujolais with decent fruit although not a world stopper. Maybe we expect too much from French wines. Available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a couple

Peller 2004 Heritage Series Gewurztraminer

I am not a real Gewurtz fan, but was pleasantly surprised by this one. Not overly citrus that finishes fairly quickly and is followed by a hint of a sweet note. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: a bargain for Gewurtz fans. Buy a couple

Creekside 2004 Lost Barrel Red

Quite a story about a barrel of red, lost for 4 years. The hope was that after 4 years and with no filtering the wine would develop some complexity. The wine is decent, although not particularly complex. Drinks well on its own and can stand up to pairing with some red meat. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a bottle if you feel adventurous. Be prepared to lay it down for a few more years. You can make your own legend of "the Lost Bottle"

Women Drivers

#$@*%^$! !*^&#$% #@&

There, I've said it.

Pillitteri 2002 Family Reserve Trivalente

A very limited edition which is a really nice blend from a great vintage. Lovely fruit with a great clean finish. Lots of heat, but not overbearing or overwhelming. Very drinkable and would make a great accompaniment to beef. Try not to waste it on the beef and just sip it by the fire. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a few bottles.

Peller 2008 Private Reserve Rose

It is what it is, nothing special. It's a Rose. End of story. I have no idea why the "Family" would "Reserve" it. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: You can do better for much less. Pass it by.

Sanson 2005 Reserve Baco Noir

A nice little wine from a nice little winery but not particularly memorable. Very drinkable on its own, but can be paired successfully with salmon etc. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a bottle if you see it, but dont do out of your way looking for it.

McGuigan 2007 Black Label Shiraz

Nice and fruity with the none of the harshness one would normally expect in such a young wine. Very drinkable on its own, but would pair nicely with a nice pasta dish. Very dependable. Available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a half-case.

Angel's Gate Non-Vintage V

This is an odd non-vintage wine that is a blend of varietals and vintages. Cab Sauv, Cab Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot in vintages 2002 through 2006. An experiment that doesnt really fail, but doesnt really succeed. The label claims "complexity" but the complexity escaped me. Drinkable but not something you want to stockpile. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a bottle for your cellar. Maybe it will mature.

Coyote's Run 2003 Reserve Chardonnay

A nice attempt by a new winery (new at the time). This is a wine that you probably want to serve with a meal featuring a heavy cream/garlic sauce. Very heavy on the oak. Not really something you want to sit and quaff. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: If you find it, drink it now with creamy Italian dinner. You probably dont want to buy more than one.

Joke of the Day (2)

The Newfie Stud Bob liked to frequent the Newfoundland beaches, but was never able to attract the girls. He decided to ask his friend George the lifeguard for advice.

"It's dem big baggy swimming trunks, my son. Dey're years outta style. Yer best bet is to grab yeself a pair of Speedos - about two sizes too small, and drop a fist-sized potato down inside 'em. I'm telling ye, man...ye'll have all de babes ye wants!"

The following weekend, Bob hits the beach with his spanking new tight Speedos, and his fist-sized potato. Everybody on the beach was disgusted as he walked by, covering their faces, turning away, laughing, looking sick!

Bob went back to George the lifeguard and asked him, "What's wrong now?"

"Lard-Tunderin' Jeezus b'y!" said George, "da potato goes in da front!"

Joke of the Day

A teacher was explaining biology to her 4th grade students. "Human beings are the only animals that stutter,' she said.

A little girl raised her hand. 'I had a kitty-cat who stuttered.'

The teacher, knowing how precious some of these stories could become, asked the girl to describe the incident.

"Well," she began, 'I was in the back yard with my kitty and the Rottweiler that lives next door got a running start and before we knew it, he jumped over the fence into our yard!'

'That must've been scary,' said the teacher.

'It sure was,' said the little girl. 'My kitty raised her back, went "Ffffff!, Ffffff!, Fffffff," but before she could say 'FUCK OFF!,' the Rottweiler ate her!

Summer Newspapers

Me and da doggies were featured in both local papers about a week apart. The first was in the Examiner and the second in Peterborough This Week

Canadian Cellular Companies Suck

If you were a greedy amoral Canadian corporation who was not able to build a Victorian labour house, or to convince the Chinese to help you out with cheap prison labour, what would you do to diversify and help the bottom line? Chances are "Canadian cellular provider" is a term you would love to learn more about.

You can charge more than virtually anywhere else in the world, create ridiculous accessorial charges such as system access fees, charge to provide an invoice to your customers and blame them for not being 'green', and get away with any number of other ideas to pump up the bottom line.

You too can be the envy of the banking and oil industries. Thank God, Canadian cellular customers are such sheep.

Casa-Dea 2008 Reserve Cabernet Franc

As you may know, I am partial to a decent Cab Franc and PEC seems to be able to produce their share. Casa-Dea (formerly known as Carmela) has produced a nice Cab Franc. Though not as full as some of the others, it has nice fruit and drinks well for such a young wine. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a couple of bottles.

Sandbanks 2008 Cabernet Franc

Another nice wine from Sandbanks. I have to admit, the winemaker has the knack for creating my favourite Cab Francs (in Ontario.) Always nice fruit, always nice weight, always a decent price and always sells out. The 2008 doesn't disappoint. Good fruit and a lovely clean finish - and drinkable NOW. Available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a bottle. When you go back to buy more, you can thank me.

Peller 2006 Private Reserve Baco Noir

Nice inexpensive light wine for sipping or enjoying with tapas or popcorn and a movie. Lots of tart fruit. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Not something to look for, but dont be afraid to buy it should you see it.

Green for Profit

So another of our national chains has hopped on board the "Do you want to BUY a bag to carry out your groceries?" bandwagon. The chains all seem to have one thing in common - they have turned an expense item into a profit item by pulling the wool over everyones eyes.

I think most people agree that plastic grocery bags were a blight on the landscape ... blowing down the street, stuck against fences or in trees. The national chains had an opportunity to change to bio-degradeable plastic or even paper, but instead took the opportunity to make carryout bags a profit item. Its interesting that they only do this where they can get away with it. Its also interesting that they want you to buy more and then pay them more for the privilege.

However apparently their commitment to "green" only extends as far as the locals will tolerate it. In several Canadian Provinces, they have reversed that decision and now provide free bags. All it took was a decrease in business.

I for one shop at a small local market that provides bags. If I have to shop in a national chain store, I either take a bag in (if I have one) and only buy what will fit in that bag, or if I am without a bag I only buy what I can carry in my arms or what will fit in my pockets.

I wish there were more people that would grow a pair and let these mega-chains know we actually understand their motives.

Peller 2004 Private Reserve Dry Rielsing

S'ok I guess ... if you like dry rieslings. Nothing to write home about. You would probably be best to pair it with some fish and call it a night. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: meh. It's okay but not something you need to keep an eye out for.

Peller 2006 Private Reserve Rielsing

A nice Riesling as Rieslings go. Fairly crisp, lots of citrus (mostly grapefruit). Nothing special. Not available at LCBO (although currently the 2007 is). Recommendation: Nothing special, but not something to refuse. Would be a good choice with your fish course.

Joke of the Day

Two Newfies were sitting around talking one afternoon over a cold beer. After a while the first Newfie says to the second, 'If I was to sneak over to your house and make love to your wife while you was off huntin', and she got pregnant and had a baby, would that make us related?'

The second Newfie crooked his head sideways for a minute, scratched his head, and squinted his eyes thinking real hard about the question. Finally, he says, 'Well, I don't know about related, but it sure would make us even.'

Beringer 2007 Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Nice. Exactly what a new Cab Sauv should be. LOTS of fruit. Great balance. Pairs with anything! Available at LCBO. Recommendation: Buy it. Buy it NOW!

Peller 2008 Private Reserve Gamay Noir

Another good wine from Peller. Nice and fruity with a lighter body. Young but very drinkable. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Go ahead and buy it. You know you want to.

Fielding 2008 Pinot Gris

A nice balanced wine that I have paired with seafood and roast chicken legs. I am not a big fan of citrusy wines and this one has just the right balance of sweet. Really decent to drink on the porch/dock on a hot summer night. Available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a couple

Peller 2007 Private Reserve Baco Noir

Excellent Baco noir. Excellent fruit that lingers on the palette. Drink it alone or invite a friend to share ... but it you do, make sure your friend has a smaller glass. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a case.

Wayne Gretzky 2007 No. 99 Cabernet/Merlot

He shoots, he scores! This is one of those hidden gems. Excellent wines and this one is no exception. Great fruit, nice body. Drink it alone or pair it with beef. Both are successful. Available at LCBO. Recommendation: Buy it. Yes, you heard me, Buy it.

Peller 2008 Private Reserve Baco Noir

This is what I expect in a Baco Noir. Nice fruit. Great finish. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: Buy it.

Lift Haus 2008 Cabernet Franc

Another new PEC winery and this one is family owned. The Cab Franc is nothing to write home about, but is drinkable. Give them a few years and they may be creating some really decent offerings. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: If you like Cab Franc, buy a bottle. The price is right.

Peller 2007 Private Reserve Gewurztraminer

Peller makes good white wines and their Gewurtz are no exception. This wine is excellent to pair with food or even just sip. Nice and crisp. Not available in LCBO. Recommendation: Good to have in your wine cooler

Fielding 2006 Reserve Pinot Noir

This is more like the kind of wine Fielding is capable of making. Lovely body. Old world, but some complexity. Not available in the LCBO. Recommendation: Grab a couple of bottles for a lamb dinner with guests.

Joke of the Day

A crusty old marine Sergeant Major found himself at a gala event hosted by a local liberal arts college. There was no shortage of extremely young idealistic liberal ladies in attendance, one of whom approached the Sergeant Major for conversation.

"Excuse me, Sergeant Major, but you seem to be a very serious man. Is something bothering you?"

"No, ma'am. Just serious by nature."

The young lady looked at his awards and decorations and said, "It looks like you have seen a lot of action."

"Yes, ma'am, a lot of action."

The young lady, tiring of trying to start up a conversation, said, "You know you should lighten up a little. Relax and enjoy yourself."
 
The Sergeant Major just stared at her in his serious manner. Finally the young lady said, "You know, I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but when was the last time you had sex?"

"1955, ma'am."

"Well, there you are. No wonder you're so serious. You really need to chill out and relax! I mean, no sex since 1955! Come with me."

She took his hand and led him to a private room where she proceeded to "relax" him several times. Afterwards, panting for breath, she leaned against his grizzled bare chest and said, "Wow, you sure didn't forget much since 1955."

The Sergeant Major said in his serious voice, after glancing at his watch, I hope not; it's only 2130 now."

Fielding 2007 Red Conception

Not a favourite of mine, but you might like it if you like Old World Reds. Very earthy. Light bodied. Available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Fielding makes some excellent wines, but this isnt one of them. Give it a pass.

Peller 2008 Private Reserve Sauvignon Blanc

Lovely clean white. Fairly long finish. I had it with chicken and it was excellent. Not available at the LCBO Recommendation: Put a couple bottles in your wine cooler. They wont go to waste.

By Chadsey's Cairns 2007 Gamay Noir

A nice little winery in PEC that makes some middle of the road wines. Occasionally they have a small gem, but this wasnt one of them. Light on the fruit side, light bodied. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Save your money

Joke of the Day

At 85 years of age, Wally married Anne, a gorgeous 25 year old. Since her new husband is so old, Anne decides that after their wedding she and Wally should have separate bedrooms, because she is concerned that her new but aged husband may over exert himself if they spend the entire night together.

After the wedding festivities Anne prepares herself for bed and the expected 'knock' on the door. Sure enough the knock comes, the door opens and there is Wally, her 85 year old groom, ready for action. They unite as one. All goes well, Wally takes leave of his bride, and she prepares to go to sleep.

After a few minutes, Anne hears another knock on her bedroom door, and it's Wally. Again he is ready for more 'action.' Somewhat surprised, Anne consents for more coupling. When the newlyweds are done, Wally kisses his bride, bids her a fond goodnight and leaves.

She is set to go to sleep again, but, aha you guessed it..... Wally is back again, rapping on the door, and is as fresh as a 25-year-old, ready for more 'action.' And, once again they enjoy each other.

But as Wally gets set to leave again, his young bride says to him, "I am thoroughly impressed that at your age you can perform so well and so often. I have been with guys less than a third of your age who were only good once. You are truly a great lover, Wally.'"

Wally, somewhat embarrassed, turns to Anne and says: ....... "You mean I've been here already?"

Organized Crime 2006 The Download (Red Blend)

Another blend from this newish small winery, but this one is a miss. 60% Merlot and 40% Cab Franc. Nice hint of fruit but it tastes like someone literally watered it down. Not available at the LCBO Recommendation: Pass it by

Wild Soul Winery, Stanthorpe, Queensland, Australia.

Stanthorpe, in the Granite Belt, is the the wine and apple region of Queensland, Australia. Located about 3 hours southwest of Brisbane, Stanthorpe is home to over 50 wineries, apple orchards, music festivals and beautiful autumn scenery... far from the palm trees of Brisbane. I stumbled upon Wild Soul around 2002 and fell in love with the wines. They only produce a Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and a Merlot. I have had the 2003, 04, 05 Cab Sav and the Merlot and can heartily say that since I bought them by the case, I must have liked them. They can't be bought in wine shops, only at the vineyard.... worth every mile of the trip. The winery started as a chili farm but the owners found out that it was so expensive to ship chili interstate, with all the state fees and precautions one had to make to keep the shipments free from bugs and bacteria, that they turned it into a winery. The Merlot is one of the smoothest I've ever tasted and never left me feeling like I had too much. But I can say that of most any wine! It's slightly fruity flavour gave it a distinct taste on the palette and the oak overtones were just right, not too overwhelming. The Cab Sav was heartier as it should be. The oak a bit more pronounced but didn't take away from the flavour of the prime rib. If you have a friend going to Brisbane, Australia, make sure they bring you back a bottle or three!

http://www.wildsoul.netfirms.com/wildsoul.netfirms.com/Welcome.html
http://www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au/accom_result1/wild-soul/

Oak Heights 2007 Pinot Noir

A wine with some good promise. Quite drinkable now, but will do well with another couple of years under its belt. Good fruit. Pairs nicely with leg o' lamb (as if it wouldn't.) Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a couple of bottles and lay them down for 5 or 6 years.

Peller 2007 Private Reserve Gamay Noir

A very nice Gamay. Lots of fruit. Good balance, great colour. A nice wine to have with Pork. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: A nice wine to have in your cellar. Don't be afraid to buy a couple.

Vineland Estates 2004 St Urban Riesling

Very nice crisp Riesling from a winery known for its German style whites. Excellent with fish, but I didnt find it drank as well without a food pairing. Vinelands seems to be able to turn out these decent Rieslings and Gewurtztraminers at will. If you can't find the '04 don't worry about it. There is bound to be a more recent vintage that will do the trick. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Make sure you have a couple of these Vineland Rieslings in your cellar

Peller 2002 Private Reserve Chardonnay

An excellent chardonnay and one that you would want in your cellar. Pairs well but also drinks well on its own. Better than average. Not available at LCBO. Recommendation: If you find it, buy a couple.

Legends 2006 Reserve Malbec

I have to admit I was shocked to see a Malbec in a Canadian winery. Imagine my surprise when I sampled it and found it to be quite decent! I admit it is not world class, but it has a nice balance and great fruit.Not available in LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a half case. Its a nice wine to have on hand when company comes over.

Unity 2001 Chardonnay

A really decent wine, well worth the premium. Nice colour, good balance. Something you could give as a Christmas present to that friend you forgot on the list. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: pick up a couple of bottles if you can find it.

Oak Heights 2006 Cabernet Franc

A newish winery well off the beaten path in an area not known for wine production. This Cab is a decent red. A nice weight, decent mouth feel and some good fruit. I drank it with some cheese and fruit and it paired quite nicely. It would likely do well with salmon too. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: Buy a couple of bottles.

Featherstone 2003 Canadian Oak Chardonnay

A new wine from a new winery. Although this wine is drinkable, it is nothing special. Not available in LCBO. Recommendation: Go ahead and buy it for an emergency. Don't be afraid of it but dont expect too much.

Harbour Estates 2004 Baco Noir

Nice little winery out of the way in the Niagara Benchs. Very friendly people, but thats the nicest thing I can say. The wine starts off nice and fruity but finishes with the distinct taste of tobacco. - no, not smoke, more like drinking an ashtray. This is definitely something you want to avoid. Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: If you see this wine, don't make eye contact and run away in the opposite direction.

Beringer 2006 Clear Lake Zinfandel

One of the well known and respected names in California wines. The Zin is very nice and fruity without being jammy, but doesnt have the heat that we all like in the better Zins. Excellent for sipping while sitting in front of the fire (but then again what wine isnt?) Not available at the LCBO. Recommendation: A nice wine to have in your cellar. Buy it

Grange 2003 Trumpours Mill Gamay

At the outset I should admit I am not a great fan of The Grange. I find their wines lacking and have to force myself to buy their wines to lay down. Seriously they are/were almost undrinkable in the year of bottling. I mean I have heard of bottle shock, but really! Anyway, I digress. The Gamay is drinkable after a few years, but isnt good enough to want to buy to lay down and wait for the privilege. This particular wine is not very good, but is not quite a dumper. Not at the LCBO (thank goodness) Recommendation: Pass it by

Mountain Road 2001 Chardonnay

Another of those cool "finds" you get driving down backroads in Niagara. The chardonnay was relatively inexpensive for an Ontario wine even with all the taxes . A nice chardonnay at the price and stood up well to the years in the cellar. This winery also sold cheeses. I havent been back in quite a while, but its on my list for my next Niagara visit. If you find it in the LCBO check your calendar and yes, that is the Twilight Zone music playing in the background. Recommendation: If you find it, go ahead and buy it.

Tawse 2002 Chardonnay

A really nice Chardonnay from a relatively new "gravity feed" winery in Niagara. I visited the week after they opened their wine boutique and took a chance on the Chardonnay. I guess I was either smart or lucky. The winery specializes in whites and has done quite well at the competitions. This wine is not available at the LCBO, but you might be able to get them to part with a bottle or two from their library if you visit them. Recommendation: Buy it if you find it.

Reviewed wines availability at LCBO

Per an email request, I will do my best to include a note whether the wine is currently available at the LCBO.

Joke of the Day

Two great white sharks, swimming in the ocean, spied survivors of a sunken ship. "Follow me, son." the father shark said to the son shark and they swam to the mass of people.

"First we swim around them a few times with just the tip of our fins showing." And they did.

"Well done, son! Now we swim around them a few more times with all of our fins showing." And they did.

"Now we eat everybody." And they did.

When they were both gorged, the son asked, "Dad, why didn't we just eat them all at first? Why did we swim around and around them?

His wise father replied, "Because they taste better without the shit inside!"

Rosewood 2007 Pinot Noir

Old World style Pinot Noir. Very drinkable. You can taste barnyard, but a little light on the fruit. Finishes quickly. Would probably nicely accompany a hearty beef dinner with root vegetables. Open this wine and let it breathe. You wont be disappointed. VERY reasonably priced. A nice find.

Changed tracks

Uh oh, switched to "Love On The Rocks"

An Emo day?

Oddly today seems to be a day to hum Neil Diamond's "Solitary Man" over and over. Is there Emo in the air? I will research this and get back to you.

Norman Hardy 2007 County Pinot Noir

Norman Hardy is one of the new breed of winemaker settling in PEC. He works his land and is involved with every aspect of his winery. His Pinot Noir is destined to be one of the best in Canada. The 2007 is of course quite young and very immature, but has decent potential. This is one of those wines that you may want to pay the extra couple of bucks and lay it down for a few years (5-10.) It would not be one you want to drink with dinner tonight. Recommendation: Buy a couple of bottles and lay them down.

Ganton & Larsen Prospect Winery 2007 Pinot Noir

Review from Debbie Levy: "Decided it wasn't good enough for salad dressing. Considered window washer, and decided my windows deserved better. Dump." 'Nuff said.

Lacey Estates 2008 Baco Noir

A new family run winery in PEC produces some interesting new wines. Please note the emphasis should be on the "NEW". It will take a few years for them to produce some quality, but for now don't be afraid to pick up some of their Baco Noir. Drinkable, but nothing to take home to introduce to your Mother.

Biale 2007 Black Chicken Zinfandel

Biale makes a many varietals but if you are a Zin lover, you must try the Black Chicken at least once in your life. Black Chicken is my all-time favourite Zinfandel and this vintage does not disappoint. Even this young, it opens up quite quickly. Make sure you visit their website and read the story about the winery history and where the "Black Chicken" name came from. Black Chicken is rationed so its not easy to find. In Canada you will likely have to find a wine agent to get it for you. Once you have it, try to cellar it for 5-10 years if you can. With that much time to develop, it will be awesome. Recommendation: Buy it. You can thank me later.

Organized Crime 2006 Pipe Down (Red Blend)

Organized Crime is a fairly new smaller winery in Niagara. (Ask them to tell you the story about the name.) The "Pipe Down" is a Petit Verdot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon blend. It is drinkable now, but probably needs another couple of years to develop. Its a good start for the winery, as long as they dont bet the farm on this formula. Drinkable but not something you want to give the Boss at Christmas.

Saturday night at the movies

After playing with metadata for a couple of hours, I switched my attention to watching an old movie. Out of respect for Barbara Billingsly who died Saturday, I settled on Airplane! Funny movie. Highly recommended if you havent seen it.

Keeping an eye out for some excellent reviewers

I hope at some point Michael Pinkus, Shari Darling and Tony Aspler will drop by and say hi. :-)

Bringing things up to date

I have just realized that I have 2 years of wine reviews that will never be made up, but I do have 20 or 30 from relatively recent tastings that I can try to post over the next couple of weeks. If you would like to post wine reviews, please let me know and I will set up admin status for you.
Cheers

The Grange 2004 Trumpour's Mill Gamay Noir

The Gamay is drinkable but barely. I would recommend it for sipping while adding to braising liquids. Definitely something that needs a food accompaniment.

Saturday morning

Today ia a new day. I watched "Pillow Talk" last night and poured a mundane Gamay to go with it. Good movie, bad wine.

Enbridge (the gas company) still hasnt shown up to install the natural gas, so I am still without heat. Its 62°F in my bedroom.

I will take the dogs for their big morning run in an hour or so.

Best movie competition

I have determined Operation Petticoat and The Princess Bride are in direct competition as "best.movie.ever". Father Goose gets an honourable mention

missed wine postings

I had given up on blogging for quite a while but have decided to jump back in. Over the next little while, I will make a series of short posts on some of the recent wines I have sampled. Instead of long descriptive reviews, I will make short comments and recommend or not. Let the sipping begin!

An assortment of ramblings

Friday once again and its time to renew prescriptions for me and for my dogs.

Watched a great movie last night. "Operation Petticoat" with Cary Grant and Tony Curtis is one of my all-time favourites.

I noted that Verizon has announced iPad/MIFI bundles available later this month. Hell finally froze over.

----- Joke of the Day -----

A newfie, who had just moved to BC walked into a bar and ordered three mugs of draught beer. He sat in the back of the room, drinking a sip out of each one in turn. When he finished them, he came back to the bar and ordered three more. The bartender approached and told the newfie, "You know, a mug goes flat after I draw it. It would taste better if you bought one at a time."

The newfie replied, "Well, you see, I have two brothers. One is in Alberta, the other is in Manitoba. When we all left our home in Nfld , we promised that we'd drink this way to remember the days when we drank together. So I'm drinking one beer for each of my brothers and one for myself."

The bartender admitted that this was a nice custom, and left it there.

The newfie became a regular in the bar, and always drank the same way. He ordered three mugs and drank them in turn. One day, he came in and only ordered two mugs. All the regulars took notice and fell silent. When he came back to the bar for the second round, the bartender said softly, "I don't want to intrude on your grief, but I wanted to offer my condolences on your loss."

The newfie looked quite puzzled for a moment, then a light dawned in his eyes and he laughed. "Oh, no, everybody's just fine," he explained, "It's just that my wife and I joined the Baptist Church and I had to quit drinking. ... Hasn't affected my brothers though."

Peller Estates 2004 Heritage Series Baco Noir

Beautiful deep ruby colour. Medium body. Black fruits and plums. Cocoa powder, some hazelnut. No tobacco or spices.

Birchwood Estates 2002 Cabernet Franc

Nice deep ruby colour. Almost nothing on the nose. Medium bodied. Spice up front, some leather, and cedar. Some black fruits. A decent wine at a terrific price.

Black Prince 2003 Chambourcin

Light bodied. Ruby red. Almost nothing on the nose, followed by very light strawberry/cherry. It will remind you of a watery pre-sweetened kool-aid. It might be okay slightly chilled at a summer picnic or bbq.

Cornerstone Select Blend Red

All spice on the nose. Medium body, ruby red. Lots of spice up front. Cloves and allspice. Some leather and cedar. Fruit is well hidden but some cherry comes through on the long finish.

(added Oct 16/2010) Of the 4 bottles I bought, 3 were corked. Very low quality cork was used after bottling. Buyer beware.

Puddicombe 2004 Reisling Reserve

I was hoping for a repeat of the 2003 Reisling, but this one is farmore citrus with very little of the tart granny apple that dominated the previous vintage. Very pale colour. Light body. No viscosity. Lots of citrus (lemon, grapefruit) and a little tart apple.

Peller Estates 2003 Gamay Noir Private Reserve

Ruby red but almost nothing on the nose. Medium body. Red berries, cherry and currant. Some cedar/oak/tobacco. Clean quick finish, with a touch of toabacco on the palate.

Stoney Ridge 2003 Baco Noir Barrel Select

Beautiful deep purple colour. Medium bodied. Quite jammy. Very fruit forward featuring red fruits especially raspberry. Some plum. A little tobacco on the finish.

Quail's Gate 2004 Pinot Noir Family Reserve

Fairly complex. Dark fruits, plum and cherry. Chocolate and coffee. Fairly silky after a couple of hours in the decanter. Definitely needs another couple of years in the cellar.

Lakeview 2002 Cabernet Franc

I nice medium body that leads with black fruit, plum and cedar. Some spice on the finish.

Lakeview 2002 Pinot Noir Reserve

Light bodied. Black cherries with some raspberry. Very fruit forward with a touch of spice on the finish.

Malviore 2004 Gamay

Estate bottled, organic. Light bodied with a lovely cherry taste. Big strawberry comes through right after. Some light floral notes.

Thomas & Vaughan 2002 Cabernet Franc

A nice medium body. Lots of black fruit. Plums, black cherry. A touch of cranberry balanced with some spice and cedar. Excellent value.

Carmella Estates 2005 Cabernet

This is an interesting blend of 60% Cab Sauv and 40% Cab Franc. 10 months in french oak. Some nice black fruits (cassis, blackberry and black cherry) with a touch of leather on the finish. Some hints of licorice. The tasting notes suggest vanilla, but it wasnt there for me.

Carmella Estates 2003 Gamay

I tried this one while visiting Sunday. It is much lighter than one would expect from the beautiful dark ruby colour. Definitely a light-medium body. Lots of sour cherry and a hint of rhubarb. It might be okay on the patio in summer for people who like reds, but not really enough body to match with many foods.

Huff Estates 2005 Gamay

They opened the winery for me on Sunday in the middle of a snow storm. I rather think they didnt expect anyone was stupid enough to brave the snowstorm. All they were offering was the Gamay and an Icewine, so I decided to try the Gamay. I have tried their Gamays in the past and really wasnt expecting much but this wine was quite nice. Sour black cherry, some floral, and some spices. An earthiness on the finish and some tobacco. I also got just a touch of chocolate.

Carmella Estates 2005 Chardonnay Sur Lie

I tried this on the weekend and it was a bit of a shocker. Absolutely outstanding on the nose. Buttered popcorn, some caramel, the flavours burst out of the glass. The actual taste was quite different. Pretty much a light citrus taste and virtually nothing more. No finish at all. Quite a disappointment.

Hillebrand 2004 Muscat Reserve

Pale straw in colour. Definite notes of Honeydew melon. Some hints of lime and pineapple.

Creekside Signature 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon

Black fruits on the nose. Deep garnet colour. Black fruits (blackberry, boysenberry, etc.) Some acidity followed by earthy spice notes. Lingering finish.

Maleta 2002 Shiraz

I opened this to have with a nice venison steak. The wine is a deep ruby and is medium bodied. Tart cherry taste, and didnt really want to open up even though it was allowed to breathe for a couple of hours. A little spice, but not much here.

Peninsula Ridge 2004 Viognier

I bought this on my first trip to this winery. The tasting bar was packed with a bus tour and I bought the Viognier without tasting it ... big mistake. The wine is pale in colour and tastes of citrus. There is a hint of honeydew on the finish, but it is brief and doesnt really balance the acidity. All in all a disappointment.

Maleta 2002 Gamay

Another surprise. This is a small winery that is just a little off the beaten path. The winery is a pretty ruby and is medium bodied. Lots of sour cherry, with a hit of chocolate on the finish. A decent wine.

Wine clubs in Ontario

When I was in Niagara, I decided to join a few more wine clubs. In addition to Peller, I am now looking forward to monthly selections from Puddicombe, Fielding and Vinelands Estates. Thanks to Lindsay (at Puddicombe), Joe (at Vinelands) and Heidi (at Fieldings.)

EastDell Estates 2002 Red Cab

I allowed this wine to breathe for 2 hours before sampling. This is a blend of cab Franc and Gamay. I think the winemaker was drinking a different wine - based on his notes versus my experience. The wine is medium bodied (at best.) While the winemaker 's notes suggest blueberry and raspberry, I did get some raspberry, but lots of unpleasant acidity and no blueberry. I also had earthiness and harshness, rather than "soft and supple." This isnt something you would pour out, but you really wouldnt want to cellar it.

Peller Estates 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Signature Series

I went to Peller on Saturday and had dinner at the restaurant. I have always liked the '02 Cab Sauv and decided to have a glass (or two) of the Signature series with dinner. Full-bodied. Black berries and plums on the nose. Deep reddish-purple. Tastes of plum, black cherries. A wonderful accompaniment with the venison.

Coyote Run 2004 Off-Dry Reisling

I bought this on my first extended weekend trip to Niagara. This was the first stop and the winery's boutique had only been open for a week. I decided to buy this wine blind - with a thought that I would return later.

Nice clean pale straw colour. Tropical fruits on the nose. Grapefruit comes through with some pineapple. Crisp and a bit too much acidity. The notes claim lychee, but it didn't happen for me. A reasonable first attempt.

Fielding 2005 Pinot Gris

Absolutely gorgeous colur. A lovely amber with just a touch of blush. Terrific balance of sweetness and tartness. Grapefruit/tangerine comes through and quickly balanced with peach and melon. If you can find it, buy it.

Cornerstone Estate 2004 Select Blend Red

A blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir. Medium bodied. There seems to be more Gamay than Pinot to my taste. Lots of earthiness and cloves. Some cherry in the background, but slightly overwhelmed by the tabacco and earth. A bit of a long finish that isnt unpleasant. Inexpensive, but not something you want keep in your cellar.

Birchwood Estates 2002 Pinot Noir

I wasnt hoping for much, but this wine was a very pleasant surprise. Light to Medium bodied. Definite sweet cherry, with some red tart fruit that balances extremely well. A definite keeper.

Lang Vineyards 2005 Viognier

The "Soaring Eagle" Limited Edition. "limited"? maybe that's for the best. Very pale colour. The nose promises peach, but the wine fails to deliver. Very light citrus taste with lots of acidity, but no sweetness to balance. The citrus is hard to describe. Its a bit like lemon water. Pass it by.

Lakeview Cellars 2002 Baco Noir Reserve

I decided to make a moose stew and wanted to use a Baco with the stock. I chose this wine assuming it had matured enough over the past 4 years. The best I can say about the wine is that it has a beautiful deep dark red. Tastes of cranberries and tobacco with some earthiness and a hint of chocolate. After 3 hours of breathing it was still tart - almost as though it hadn't been decanted. A disappointment.