Arnold Toporowski

Sonoma Cutrer Russian River Ranches Chardonnay 2008, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County

the 2007 isn't as good as the 2006. less fruit, more sulphur, more oak. slightly out of balance. not recommended.

Norman Hardie County Pinot Noir 2007, VQA Prince Edward County

very light in colour, almost rose. I'm a fan of Norman Hardie's Pinots, but I think this bottling is not as strong as other vintages and not as strong as the blended Niagara/PEC bottlings. maybe as the PEC vineyards mature they will get better.. Global warming should help too.

Wayne Gretzky Estate Series Cabernet Merlot 2007, Niagara Peninsula

It's just pretty good, not great

Castello Di Neive Barbaresco 2006, Docg

bought this on Roger's recommendation, but I got the 2007 vintage (not the 2006). Never tried the 2006, so i don't know how it compares. I found the 2007 had a nice nose of plums and smoke, but in the mouth it was a little lacking in fruit, and tannic. Definately an old-school, needs-food kind of wine. Though I must say it was better the second day (air pumped out). Maybe it's age-worthy, but I'll never know since I won't be buying it again.

Huff Estates Sculpture Series Riesling Reserve 2011

Tasted on the weekend at the winery. Huff's best wine for sure, and the only one of their wines that I bought. Love the dry and crisp character. I'd almost swear there was Sauvignon Blanc in this! ;)

Wayne Gretzky Estates No. 99 Meritage 2007, Niagara Peninsula

a little green for me, but pretty good. not a bad price either

St. Urbans Hof Riesling 2008, Qba Mosel, Estate Btld.

really great. excellent value

Karlo Estates The Fifth Element Petit Verdot 2010, Ontario

Interesting, but a little too rough and tannic for me. There's a good reason why this grape is usually blended with Merlot and Cabs!

Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Riesling Kabinett 2007, Prädikatswein

excellent. Dr. Loosen kicks it up a notch from the regular Dr. L boittling

Kenwood Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Sonoma County