Tyler Philp

Encostas De Estremoz Touriga Franca 2004, Vinho Regional Alentejano

Touriga Franca is one of the five main grape varieties used in the production of Port. In this case, the grape must remains unfortified. Deep red in the glass and very aromatic showing notes of black cherry and licorice. Smooth tannins with more dark fruit in the mouth and some smoke on the finish. The 14.5% alc/vol creates a rather full bodied feel on the palate. I enjoyed this. (northof9finewine, March 2011)

Lammershoek Roulette Blanc 2008, Wo Swartland

Well, I loved it! An absolute pleasure to taste. I’m assuming the name ‘Roulette’ implies a gamble in terms of percentages of Viognier, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay used in the blend. Aromas of peppermint, vanilla, and honey and literally an endless array of flavour. (Northof9finewine, April 2011)

Oscar's Estate Vineyard Shiraz 2008, Barossa Valley, South Australia

Not what I expected: New world Shiraz that has a down-to-earth component to it; fragrant with rich black fruit and spice on the nose; the high alcohol component creates a smooth, rich, full body texture; dry but not overly so; there is just a touch of sweetness and a good pepper/smoke finish. I enjoyed this. (Northof9finewine, April 2011)

Cicchitti Torrontés 2010, Mendoza

Pronounced floral aromas and a combination of pear, lime and lingering spice on the finish. A slight bitterness adds an unusual twist to the equation, though not one which is overly desirable. Try this out of curiosity; it's an interesting example to study in the glass for its marked characteristics.

Deakin Estate Shiraz 2010, Victoria

Here’s a reliable under $10 bottle. Expect aromas of dark fruit and an interesting dried leaf thing go on in the glass. The body is full with more dark fruit and cassis in generous proportions; rounding out the finish is the characteristic pepper spice. Enjoy this one with bbq’d fare, but chill it slightly before serving. The summer heat will emphasis the alcohol in these big reds to the point where they can become too much. Tasted June 2012.

Seaglass Riesling 2010, Monterey County

This is the only California Riesling available in the LCBO General List. Floral soap aromas with subtle citrus notes cling to an uplifting light body and flavours of key lime pie. Easy drinking, off-dry, and very non-assuming - enjoy it for what it is.

Lindemans Bin 65 Chardonnay 2011, Southeastern Australia

An above average table-wine that pours well in the summer around the patio table. Also works great as the base for Sangria: Try equal parts Bin 65 and white cranberry juice plus a double shot of Triple Sec and a cup of fresh fruit.

Château De Meursault Meursault 2005, Ac

Opened this again the other day and was impressed for the fifth time. This was the top wine at the North of 9 ‘White Burgundy' tasting last year and I have enjoyed this label in both the structured tasting environment and at the dinner table. Lovely perfume of almond and soft citrus; rich but still very soft on the palate with notes of vanilla, honey and melon - Exceptional Chardonnay. (northof9finewine, April 2010)

20 Bees Chardonnay Unoaked 2008, Ontario VQA

This arrived on our doorstep in a gift bag as a hostess gift. Rather than return it to the store for a credit toward something a bit more serious, I decided to try it...

There is a combination of citrus and yeast on the nose but it's the lemon hit that really caught me. The acidity holds this one together nicely though it does become a touch flabby as it warms in the glass. Not bad and certain worth trying.

Domaine Louis Moreau Chablis 2007

2006 Vintage reviewed:

A well aged bottle which took a few minutes to open up becoming crisp and clean with hints of green apple and pastry after some time in the glass. The expected mineral character was subdued leaving a lovely and lingering finish.