Brad Mate

Detour Red (Gamay Pinot Noir) 2012, VQA Niagara Peninsula

Outstanding for the price! Reminds me of really well made bourgogne...very burgundian indeed. It's got waxy cherries and an earthy funkiness. The ripe cherries really stand out. It's suave with super fine tannins. Quality stuff, i'd love to throw it into a blind tasting.

Calamus Pinot Gris 2013, VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula

Delicious and luscious Gris, with just a hint of sweetness. It may not come from Alsace, but it's just as pleasing.

Toasted Head Chardonnay 2012, California

This is a blast from the past sort of wine. Reminiscent of when big, sweet, oaky chards were on the rise in Cali...I admit, I used to love it. So, I'm glad it has not changed.

Hinterbrook Nomad Pinot Noir 2012, VQA Niagara Lakeshore, Niagara On The Lake

Quinta Dos Aciprestes Tinto 2009, Doc Douro

well made wine but there's just nothing in this wine flavour wise that gets me excited??? The mouthful is typical for a dry red wine...like i said, not much to get excited about.

Cantina Del Dolcetto Di Dogliani Dolcetto Di Dogliani Superiore 2011, Docg

Nice clean fresh style, with super fine tannins. Cherry with hints of earth.

La Chiara Gavi Di Gavi 2013, Docg

Medium bodied, dry and crisp. Offers citrus and subtle nutty notes.

Thatched Hut Pinot Noir 2013, Central Otago, South Island

Thought I'd take a chance on this Pinot. Sadly it's a big miss. No silky Pinot love here.

Di Majo Norante Ramitello 2011, Doc Biferno Rosso

Big new world styled wine gushing with sweet pipe tobacco, vanilla oak, resin, black cherry with cola notes on the finish. The palate is supported with firm but pleasing tannins. This really drinks like an entry level Napa Cab, so if you're expecting a traditional old world charmer - this is not the bottle you're looking for.

Marchesi Di Barolo Maraia Barbera Del Monferrato 2013, Doc

I liked the firm freshness of this wine. Classic old world table wine...Dry and tight.