Vladimir Torres

Vino Lauria Frappato Scoglitti 2016, Igp Terre Siciliane

Thanks to the Wine Exchange I had the opportunity to taste this Sicilian frappato. It is certainly different and outside my comfort zone (not quite agree with the Pinot Noir comparison made by reviewers), but of undoubted layered complexity, red fruit forward and dry finish. Lots to like in this one, happy to have tasted it.

Laurus Saint Joseph 2014, Ap

Ah the Northern Rhone! Saint Joseph might be half way up the region's "prestige ranking," but when you come across a wine like this, it goes straight to "Best Syrahs list." Northern Rhones of higher reputation will cost you so much more, begging the question: is the difference worth it? (Hint: sometimes a simple Crozes Hermitage, chosen as the house wine in a Bouchon in Lyon, tastes like the best you'll ever have)

São Miguel Escolha Dos Enologos 2015, Vinho Regional Alentejano

Privato Tesoro Pinot Noir Woodward Collection 2014, Okanagan Valley

Fantastic Pinot Noir... very Burgundy (or at least that's what I said to justify being wrong on the appellation in a blind tasting game)... seriously, someone is making great PN in B.C.

Marqués De Murrieta Finca Ygay Reserva 2012, Doca Rioja

Le Vieux Pin Syrah Cuvée Violette 2016, BC VQA Okanagan Valley

Another "wow"!
This has all the black fruit beauty of a Northern Rhone Syrah, and it's appropriately named Violette.
Paired beautifully with a roasted leg of lamb covered with a crust of almonds and Moroccan inspired spices.

Bench 1775 Semillon 2016, Okanagan Valley

Deliciously dry.

Livio Sassetti Pertimali Brunello Di Montalcino 2009

Marques De Casa Concha Cabernet-sauvignon 2016

Domaine Baud Blanc De Blanc Brut, Crémant Du Jura

Delicious, creamy, bubbly Chardonnay!