Mike Grigor

Pérez Cruz Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2013

Black fruit, dry earth and a hint of smoke on the nose. Fresh and bright. Herbaceous, light oak, raw red pepper and hints of peppercorn. Tannins were softer than I would have expected, making this a little more approachable to those who don't care for agressive cabs.

Tasted March 31/2016

Chateau De Courteillac 2014

This is an attractively priced right bank Bordeaux that's simple and to the point. I was getting cherry/black cherry, chalk and a touch of menthol on the nose. The palatte is juicy, mildly herbaceous and ever-so slightly tart with an overall gentle acidity and soft tannins. Pleasing to drink.

Apr.2016

Pasqua Morago Appassite 2013, Igt Veneto

Big ripe black fruit on the nose, with notes of mint and various herbs, over a waft of freshly lit cedar kindling - like the neighbours were out back, smudging with the raw ingredients of an Aveda shampoo. On the palette it's of medium+ weight, it's juicy and slightly rasinated. Blackberries, bay leaf, and clove. Initially slightly mouthwatering, but the supple tannins restore balance. Good length on the finish.
May 2016.

Mauro Primitivo Alberello 2014, Salento

Floral notes sit on top a smattering of raspberry, alcohol, and earthy/mineral notes that hint at rain on fresh pavement. The palatte is herbaceous up front with notes of mild black pepper and over-ripe black berries giving way to a touch of cigar smoke. Strong tannin and bold acidity.

Tasted Apr 2016

Crios Pinot Noir 2014, Uco Valley

This is a slightly sour edged pinot that is a tad thin in the mouth, and a touch hot on the nose, but still delivers-most of-the goods. It's like a good mall Santa Clause. Pretty close. A little rough around the edges, and he clearly had a few cocktails on his lunch break, but you're still going to get a bike. It might not be the one you had you eye on, but it's a bike, and it'll do the trick.

Dark Horse One Horse Town Pinot Noir 2013, VQA Ontario

A beautifully complex blend of cherries, delicate minerality, spice, pepper and hints of earth. This wine has a pleasing acidity and exhibits excellent ballance. A very classy and elegant Pinot.

Stoney Ridge Pinot Noir 2013, VQA Niagara Peninsula

Enigma Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

This medium body Cab Sauv pours a rich, dark purple. Prune and jammy dark fruits on the nose. These notes were mirrored up front on the palette, followed immediately by a fairly blunt and unrefined, woody, oak. Hints of pepper behind an herbaceous mid length finish. It tastes lean and not overly sophisticated. Lighter than expected tannin.