461290 Fri Nov 16 11:39:07 -0800 2007 112 23 Ontario (including Toronto) 0 3131509 Hi, I was hoping to appeal to the wisdom of the Chowhounds for recommendations regarding the best <$15 wines at the LCBO... Thanks in advance! -- K Fri Nov 16 11:39:07 -0800 2007 143299 new_chowhound_fan 1 3131550 Pick up the latest Wine Access magazine at a local mag/book store - it has the best wines under $25, you can then pick and choose the ones under $15. Was at a tasting last night with all wines under $15, I'll get the list together and post here later. Fri Nov 16 11:49:30 -0800 2007 3131509 16879 DAB 2 3137295 My girlfriend got me a copy of this when I was at the Food & Wine Show today -- haven't had a chance to peruse it yet but it seems like it's right on the money. Thanks for the tip. Sun Nov 18 19:36:12 -0800 2007 3131550 143299 new_chowhound_fan 1 3131555 Berringer White Zinfandel Fri Nov 16 11:50:31 -0800 2007 3131509 132042 abscissa 2 3131574 Yesterday evening at the Gourmet Food & Wine Show I tasted some absolutely wonderful, and inexpensive ($10-15) Chilean wines, Casillero del Diablo (the Devil's Cellar). The white was my personal favourite- dry, with sweet fruity undertones, perfect for fruit, cheeses, and white fish. Fri Nov 16 11:55:26 -0800 2007 3131555 102010 czthemmnt 3 3131754 I'm heading to the show on Sunday, so I'll be sure to try those -- thanks. Fri Nov 16 12:38:27 -0800 2007 3131574 143299 new_chowhound_fan 1 3131630 Wine Access, while a great suggestion, can be quite daunting for someone just starting out. There's a multitude of free, or close to free, resources to be had as well. I'll update once I'm home with my shortcuts. The Vintages magazine distributed by the LCBO can be useful if you follow a few key things: Check the price first as this will allow for skimming until you hit your range; Look to see if there's an independent review, not the LCBO'S or from the wine's country of origin; Make certain the review is current (old and thereby useless reviews get sneaked in); Be certain the reviewer is reputable; See if the description matches your taste buds. It ain't flawless, but it does cut down on errors and it's free. The LCBO offers many decent bottles under $15. Do you have any preferences in style or colour? Fri Nov 16 12:08:47 -0800 2007 3131509 12072 Googs 2 3131745 To be honest, I don't know all that much about wine and thus don't have a good base to make judgments about preferences in style and colour. I know preferences are personal, but can I ask about yours? Fri Nov 16 12:36:50 -0800 2007 3131630 143299 new_chowhound_fan 1 3131645 As promised, these were the wines at the tasting last night, all very good choices: VINELAND ESTATES RIESLING DRY V.Q.A. LCBO 167551 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 13.85 CLINE ZINFANDEL LCBO 489278 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 13.40 ARGENTO MALBEC LCBO 591693 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 10.20 TRIO SAUVIGNON BLANC* LCBO 678656 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 12.95 JABOULET COTES DU RHONE PARALLELE 45 LCBO 332304 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 15.15 PINOT GRIGIO TRENTINO DOC SANTI SORTESEL LCBO 637603 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 12.95 MCWILLIAMS HANWOOD ESTATE SHIRAZ LCBO 610683 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 12.45 LINDEMANS BIN 65 CHARDONNAY LCBO 142117 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 11.15 Fri Nov 16 12:13:30 -0800 2007 3131509 16879 DAB 2 3131663 Barefoot Cellars Sauvignon Blanc and the Pinot Grigio is really nice and under $15. They also have a Merlot but I haven't opened it yet. Fri Nov 16 12:17:36 -0800 2007 3131645 100701 millygirl 2 3131748 Awesome list -- I really appreciate it -- thanks. Fri Nov 16 12:37:09 -0800 2007 3131645 143299 new_chowhound_fan 2 3132388 that CLINE zin is absolutley atrocious. no character or structure, way too young. maybe in a year or two it might develop some backbone, somehow i doubt it though. Fri Nov 16 15:33:09 -0800 2007 3131645 123951 insideman 2 3135014 TRIO also do a few good red blends, fyi tried the vinelands at the wine show today - really nice Sat Nov 17 20:35:34 -0800 2007 3131645 70876 LemonLauren 2 3137215 I'm particularly fond of the Argento Malbec...it has a surprising amount of character for something so inexpensive. It's become our red of choice for braising, and if it's a small cut of meat that doesn't require too deep a bath I will happily polish off the rest of the bottle myself. I'm not nearly as crazy about their cab sauv or the white (maybe a pinot grigio?), but I think the malbec is a good, sturdy, drinkable wine. Sun Nov 18 19:10:12 -0800 2007 3131645 40476 wickalicious 3 3244000 Go with Trapiche Reserve Malbec next time; TRAPICHE RESERVE MALBEC LCBO 614651 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 12.15 will knock your socks off. NEGROAMARO MEZZOMONDO; LCBO 588962 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 8.50. I still can't believe this wine is so cheap. It remains quietly one of my best all around reds, every time I serve it people think I'm pulling all the stops out! Years ago, my first trip to Europe, I asked an Italian sommelier to recommend me his best bottle of wine. His answer, which has stayed with me forever, was "Do you want the most expensive, or the best?". Go nutz. Fri Dec 28 18:59:44 -0800 2007 3137215 148708 The Goddess 4 3366504 ha! that negroamaro might be the one i was rather impressed with at foxley and another locale. on a lark i decided to try the chat-en-oeuf and have been plenty surprised by it. really lovely full body to it but i'm still struggling to find a single wine that compliments a whole cheese plate. CHAT-EN-OEUF LCBO 21113 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 12.85 Wine, Still Table Wine, Red Still Table Wine 13.6% Alcohol/Vol. Tue Feb 05 08:35:41 -0800 2008 3244000 10634 pinstripeprincess 1 3131661 In the last year and a half, the bottle I keep going back to is Chateau Puyfromage, which is a Bordeaux. It is juuust under $15, at $14.95; I believe they've raised the price recently. Some notes from the LCBO website... Tasting Note Ruby red colour; raspberry, cassis fruit with, plum, lightly oaked character and spice; dry and medium-bodied, well balance with ripe fruit on the medium finish. Serving Suggestion Roast beef, grilled steak, strong cheese or lamb chops Fri Nov 16 12:17:19 -0800 2007 3131509 15482 NovoCuisine 2 3131749 I'll check it out -- thanks. Fri Nov 16 12:37:26 -0800 2007 3131661 143299 new_chowhound_fan 3 3131858 You should also check out Billy Munnelly's website. He specializes in affordable wines. Fri Nov 16 13:05:12 -0800 2007 3131749 100701 millygirl 4 3131979 Cool site -- below is the link for everyone else. Thanks for the recommendation. http://www.billysbestbottles.com/ Fri Nov 16 13:32:58 -0800 2007 3131858 143299 new_chowhound_fan 5 3136597 Another irreverent wine fan is Alan Kerr of the Gang Of Pour. http://www.gangofpour.com/kerr/index.html Toronto Star wine critic rocks. Toronto Life reviews are too late by the time they hit the shelf. I'd like to partially disagree with juno's assessment of Beppi, the wine columnist for the Globe. While, yes, many reviews cater to the Globe crowd he almost always includes a couple of good bargains in there too. Semi-regularly he'll also do a round-up of well priced wines or say wines that go with Superbowl. I enjoy his writing style as he tends not to take wine that seriously. It is, after all, a matter of personal taste not meant to be held up against the tastes of others. Foremost for me is that it's meant to be enjoyed, not revered. As for your question about my tastes, they tend to change seasonally but I'm always bargain hunting. If I can lay a bottle down for a few years until it reaches its peak I feel I've done well. It helps to keep a lot of plonk around, though, if you don't want to break into your stash too soon. (This list is skewed by the unnaturally low number of affordable Canadian wines offered in Ontario. Mission Hill where art thou?) Reasonable reds available at the LCBO from winemakers that tend not to let me down are: Argentian - Flichman Australia - D'Arenberg, Waterwheel Canada - Jackson Triggs (proprietors series) Chile - Echeverria, Errazuriz France - Christian Moueix, Perrin & Fils Italy - I tend to spend too much money on Italian reds, Citra Sangiovese aside Portugal - Sogrape Spain - Miguel Torres, Muga USA - ROTFL!!! Now that's funny Vinters Without Borders - Jacques & Francois Lurton Sun Nov 18 14:57:35 -0800 2007 3131979 12072 Googs 6 3136614 Tasted a nice classic cab sauv at the Miguel Torres booth in the Chile section of the wine expo last night for...gasp...only one ticket. It is most likely the Santa Digna Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 for $15 at LCBO vintages. Sun Nov 18 15:03:52 -0800 2007 3136597 14906 Food Tourist 7 3137081 If it was the Miguel Torres Gran Coronas, it is a wonderful cab sav, and worth the 18.75 they charge for it. We were introduced to it by a sommelier last year. I haven't seen the one you mention, but I'll look for it. I recently splurged on another of their cabs that was near the $50 mark and it was also good, but not $20+ better than the Gran Coronas. Like one of the other posters mentioned, I find many drinkable whites in the $10-12 range, but I tend to splurge a little more on the reds. Sun Nov 18 18:10:03 -0800 2007 3136614 12631 dinin and dishin 6 3137264 Thanks very much, much appreciated -- I'll definitely try as many of those as possible and report back. Sun Nov 18 19:27:31 -0800 2007 3136597 143299 new_chowhound_fan 6 3137302 The TO Star critic (is it Stimmel?) does, emphatically, not rock. He does hone in one some good buys, granted. He has some astounding blind spots. I remember his comments on South African wines (the area about which I know most) that were so off the mark that it was risible. His only excuse might be the restrictive price point, but even then, it was a very bad call. On this I might be wrong, but he strikes me as a bit of a Parker acolyte. Sun Nov 18 19:38:00 -0800 2007 3136597 91415 hungry_pangolin 7 3139570 The Toronto Star Rocks comment was strictly in the context of the question being asked. Gord Stimmel has a real knack for inexpensive beauties and doesn't seem to fear telling the public about them. I feel that would be useful to NCF's quest. Mon Nov 19 13:41:53 -0800 2007 3137302 12072 Googs 8 3139612 My problem with Stimmel is over-editing, or his fear of printing a bad review. Almost everything he reviews is rated 89-91. Now magazine has a similar policy. There are lots of stinkers out there, and no reviewers to point them out! Mon Nov 19 13:51:54 -0800 2007 3139570 56131 jayt90 9 3143883 As you probably already know, ratings are relevant to the price of the wine. An 89 10 buck bottle doesn't drink the same as an 89 60 dollar bottle. Now mag for wine reviews??? Really??? It never would have occured to me. No offense meant. Just never would do it myself. All that aside, if critics did review the stinkers there would be no space left for the good ones. Stinker is, of course, relevant too. If my friend likes Partager, I'm not going to tell them they're wrong. It's what works for them. I'll always bring my own wine to their place though. No need to make them feel bad about their choice. Tue Nov 20 17:32:47 -0800 2007 3139612 12072 Googs 4 3132024 Let me second millygirl's suggestion. The website billysbestbottles.com is an ideal starting point for those just getting into wine appreciation. Billy Munnelly zeros in on mainly lower-priced wines available at the LCBO stores in Ontario. He writes clearly, wittily and without pretension, and has pointed me over the years to lots of finds (as well as a few duds, but then, his batting average is still pretty high). You'll do well to tap into his website every now and then. You can also get some good tips from the wine columns in the National Post (on Saturdays) and the Toronto Star (on Wednesdays, if I recall correctly). The wine columnist in the Globe and Mail, while authoritative, seems to write mainly about wines above your price preference. Fri Nov 16 13:41:51 -0800 2007 3131858 25418 juno 5 3132071 Wow that's a great site! I've been wondering the new Yellow Tail Rose and his comments are "super candy sweet" - that answers my question! thanks Fri Nov 16 13:57:01 -0800 2007 3132024 13182 Teep 1 3132179 Vintages http://www.vintages.com/circular/wom.html has excellent "Wines of the Month" selections, now in the $20 range but a reliable introduction to a particular type of wine. The two reds in the link are pricey but very good. Fri Nov 16 14:27:49 -0800 2007 3131509 56131 jayt90 2 3137267 Looks like a good site to bookmark and check on occasion -- thanks for the recommendation. Sun Nov 18 19:28:37 -0800 2007 3132179 143299 new_chowhound_fan 1 3132324 This might be going too low, but some Italian table wines I just can't get enough of: Mezzomundo - $8.25 Farnese, Montepulciano D'Abruzzo - $7.50 ...I've seen this blue labled Farnese at many resto's as their house offering... Fri Nov 16 15:13:21 -0800 2007 3131509 114516 Recyclor 2 3136411 Farnese used to be my house plonk of choice. Drink it, cook with it, spill it... didn't matter. Then they started having some not so good years. Citra Sangiovese, for a whopping $7.25, is my current red house Italian plonk. Sun Nov 18 13:37:47 -0800 2007 3132324 12072 Googs 3 3137287 Whoohoo! Hot tip!...thanks Googs I'll check that out! Sun Nov 18 19:33:22 -0800 2007 3136411 114516 Recyclor 2 3137277 If it's good and it costs $8, that's good enough for me! I'll check the Farnese for sure -- thanks very much. Sun Nov 18 19:30:47 -0800 2007 3132324 143299 new_chowhound_fan 2 5188693 Definitly going too low. Those are big factory wines that use pretty crap quality grapes and actually taste bad (as in rank). Best to spend a coupla bucks more. There are some good cheapies imho tho: La Casona (something like that) Monastrell - Spain. Fuzion Malbec Shiraz - Argentina. Mysterio Malbec - Argentina. All under 10 bucks! Tue Nov 17 09:55:15 -0800 2009 3132324 210997 Sui_Mai 3 5198167 Funny. I find Fuzion wines to be completely undrinkable. I'll never understand why people think that just because it's cheap and popular that is has to be good as well. Sat Nov 21 07:56:45 -0800 2009 5188693 12072 Googs 4 5198233 The Fuzion that is out now, not as good as original debut. 2005 I think. Sat Nov 21 08:27:53 -0800 2009 5198167 210997 Sui_Mai 5 5198325 Tasting side by side, I much prefer Misterio for a malbec in that price range. Sat Nov 21 09:11:36 -0800 2009 5198233 12383 Nyleve 3 5198241 I just found out that Monastrell is the Spanish name for Mourvedre - a biggie in Cotes de Rhone and other southern French wines which I love. Sat Nov 21 08:31:31 -0800 2009 5188693 210997 Sui_Mai 1 3132434 I am sipping a glass of Tortoise Creek syrah, vin de pays d'oc, on the regular lcbo shelf and it's very good. Yes it's a screwtop (mon dieu!) but it's tasty and at $13.10, good value. btw, new chowhound, don't be surprised if this thread gets moved over to the wines board. welcome! Fri Nov 16 15:47:22 -0800 2007 3131509 98493 JamieK 2 3133134 I love screwcaps! So easy to deal with when there is a lot going on before eating. Fri Nov 16 22:00:53 -0800 2007 3132434 56131 jayt90 3 3133157 Oh, yeah, nothing wrong with screwtops, in fact they're the way to go. It just seems so unFrenchlike. That wine was so good too, mellow, nice balance, lots of berry without getting too sweet. Check it out -- Tortoise Creek, the bottle sort of looks Ozzie with its bright yellow labelling and tortoise art. Fri Nov 16 22:25:29 -0800 2007 3133134 98493 JamieK 4 3133361 Thanks for the tip Jamie, I will pick up a bottle today!! Sounds very nice. Sat Nov 17 05:53:20 -0800 2007 3133157 100701 millygirl 4 3135019 when i was at flat rock this summer, they were mentioning that they have had 0% return due to taint since they have used screwtops. later that weekend, at jackson triggs, our tour guide mentioned the same fact about flat rock, and noted how much cash it's likely saved them. no shame in a screw top, evidently! Sat Nov 17 20:38:06 -0800 2007 3133157 70876 LemonLauren 4 3137286 I had no idea there was a wine board, but I appreciate everyone going off-topic to help me out. I'll check out the Tortoise Creek. Sun Nov 18 19:32:57 -0800 2007 3133157 143299 new_chowhound_fan 1 3132534 Try the Jim Jim (The downunder dog) Shiraz 2006. Its a great value at $14.95 a bottle I seem to recall Robert Parker Jr giving it a 90, how can you go wrong. The Vintages store on Dundas had a few bottles when I was there tonight. Good Luck Fri Nov 16 16:21:52 -0800 2007 3131509 127133 Food4201 2 3132842 Just about any brand of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo for a red. Trebbiano - white Good, reasonable, sturdy, no nonsense wines for everyday drinking with meals. The Rothschild family doubtlessly will not lose any sleep over them, but they make most meals into pleasnat and civilized occasions. Fri Nov 16 18:37:40 -0800 2007 3132534 54222 ekammin 2 3137303 I work pretty close to Yonge & Dundas, so I guess I know what I'm doing on my lunch hour tomorrow... Sun Nov 18 19:38:06 -0800 2007 3132534 143299 new_chowhound_fan 3 3137328 Sad to say, but the LCBO at the Atrium is one of the best in the city (downtown). The selection, while currently pretty good, is not what it was say, 15 years ago. That said, their Vintages selection is pretty broad, and will give you a decent price spectrum. At that location, look to South African, Portuguese, and Spanish for best values. Sun Nov 18 19:45:07 -0800 2007 3137303 91415 hungry_pangolin 1 3132893 I find that most of my favorite whites fall under the $15 point anyway! I find I splurge on my red and am happy with numerous whites... any suggestions for a great red under $15? Fri Nov 16 19:08:49 -0800 2007 3131509 115868 burlgurl 2 3133042 I really liked a South African I tried the other day, Oracle Shiraz..$10.95 Fri Nov 16 20:46:38 -0800 2007 3132893 10789 Wiley 2 5188708 Any Perrin or Jaboulet family Cotes de Rhone is very dependable year in and out. Cairanne is my personal fave (LCBO Vintages will have Perrin's) Tue Nov 17 10:00:22 -0800 2009 3132893 210997 Sui_Mai 2 5192240 Burlgurl, Check out the Argentina section of the LCBO. We like the Malbecs several mentioned earlier in this post. Lately we've been into FuZion Shiraz/Malbec for $7.95 as our "house red". I also picked up a Chateau Timberlay Merlot/Cab 2007 from Bordeaux for about $16 that I am very excited to try this weekend. Wed Nov 18 13:11:16 -0800 2009 3132893 1088484 South Carolina Girl 3 5197069 The Fuzion is our house red too. With that flavour, you can't beat the price. Fri Nov 20 14:22:21 -0800 2009 5192240 98493 JamieK 4 5198422 yup...same here...and love its a screwcap. Anyone tried the Fuzion reserve or whatever its called...they've launched a 12.95 reserve blend....which given the old Fuzion tasted better than the current Fuzion ...may be the old fuzion in new bottles...or not... confuzed ? Sat Nov 21 10:06:11 -0800 2009 5197069 1115545 Minister of Kebab 1 3133534 The Toronto Life Eating & Drinking guide currently available for $10 also has a wine guide, with many recs under $15. I'm pretty ignorant about wine as well, but a couple of bottles I already like are on the list... maybe some winehounds can weigh in on whether these are good recs. I'd like to know too since I am planning to use this guide to help me branch out a little in my wine selections. Sat Nov 17 07:43:45 -0800 2007 3131509 12120 julesrules 1 3134229 Castillo de Almansa ($12), Los Molinos ($14), Bersano Barbera d'Asti ($12), Roodeberg ($12) for reds. My cheap and cheefuls for a weeknight stew or pasta. Henry of Pelham chardonnay and riesling (Both ca. $13), Cave Springs riesling, an Ontario pinot gris whose producer I forget, because my Friggin' LCBO doesn't carry it anymore. Sat Nov 17 13:34:47 -0800 2007 3131509 91415 hungry_pangolin 2 3134420 h. pangolin, et al. - any thoughts on the Inniskillin '04 riesling compared to those other two? Sat Nov 17 15:02:12 -0800 2007 3134229 14419 Chester Eleganté 3 3136350 To be honest, I can't call to mind the Inniskillin 04 specifically at the moment. I will say this, however. In the <$15 range, I don't think that Inniskillin is as good as its competition. Cave Spring and Henry of Pelham, at the same price, have been more consistant and better quality over the last five years, at least. Sun Nov 18 13:15:03 -0800 2007 3134420 91415 hungry_pangolin 4 3143986 That's cool, thanks. It's the Inniskillin Riesling Reserve VQA Pre, to be more specific. Anyone partial to the Kim Crawford or the Nederburg for Sauvignon Blancs? Tue Nov 20 18:10:49 -0800 2007 3136350 14419 Chester Eleganté 5 3145000 For dollar value, I'd say the Nederberg is better. They're both pretty good. I should have mentioned Nederberg SB in my original posting, because I do pick it up every once in a while. I do a schnitzel with anchovy, capers and white wine, and the Nederberg SB is the perfect match. Wed Nov 21 07:15:44 -0800 2007 3143986 91415 hungry_pangolin 2 3134843 Yes, Roodeberg! Sat Nov 17 18:33:48 -0800 2007 3134229 114516 Recyclor 2 3136775 I agree, Henry of Pelham Riesling is very enjoyable. Also love the Cave Springs Chard Musque but I believe this to be over $15. Sun Nov 18 16:21:01 -0800 2007 3134229 100701 millygirl 3 3137275 Now hitting closer to $20, I believe. Sun Nov 18 19:30:28 -0800 2007 3136775 91415 hungry_pangolin 2 3137310 I'll try to grab one or two of these but I think my hands are going to be pretty full with all of the great recommendations by everyone -- out of the above, what's your fave? Sun Nov 18 19:40:46 -0800 2007 3134229 143299 new_chowhound_fan 2 5188717 LCBO is the shits with local wines unless they're HUGE. Tue Nov 17 10:02:55 -0800 2009 3134229 210997 Sui_Mai 1 3135010 in my mind, you don't need to go any further than our own backyard for some great affordable wines - beamsville/niagara do it pretty well, as you can read in this old post of mine : http://www.chowhound.com/topics/433004 as for specifics, depends what you're looking for...i could go on for a while consdiering i rarely pay more than $12 for a bottle myself.... for whites: i tried a whack of rieslings at the food and wine show today that floored me. RELAX and BLACK TOWER rieslings from germany were really good, and are under $12 at the LCBO. the vineland estates was pretty nice too. my partner tried the MIKE WEIR chard and liked it, and i think he said it retailed for $15ish. for reds: again, for pinots/gamays, look no further than niagara. HENRY OF PELHAM 2005 GAMAY is a stunner, as is FLAT ROCK 2004 PINOR NOIR if you can find it. i stand by the PELEE ISLAND BACO NOIR as well. these are all great wines for thai/spicier food, red meat or poultry. for international, there's an Argentinian called TRIO - by CONCHA Y TORO - a red blend that stands up nicely to meats, etc. and i can't get off SANGRA (de?) TORRES from Spain. most of the Spanish Tempranillos tasted great at the wine show today. that's a primer - i'll think on it some more and no doubt think of dozens more... Sat Nov 17 20:32:39 -0800 2007 3131509 70876 LemonLauren 2 3137316 I'm mostly looking for reds, and I've heard one or two others recommend Trio so I'll definitely check it out -- thanks. Sun Nov 18 19:42:08 -0800 2007 3135010 143299 new_chowhound_fan 1 3136359 I just tried this wonderful Riesling, it is the Birchwood Gewürztraminer/Riesling and it has a fruity aroma with honey, pear, apple and lychee, very nice! And its about 10.75. Good luck! Sun Nov 18 13:17:48 -0800 2007 3131509 66238 sexyaznboy 1 3136621 Thanks to Chris Waters, I really enjoyed these at the wine expo: Hungaria Grande Cuvee Brut - bottle fermented $11 sparkling and Montes 2007 sauvignon blanc (Chile) $14 - gorgeous sweet syrupy smell, but acidic, white peach aperitif taste Sun Nov 18 15:08:28 -0800 2007 3131509 14906 Food Tourist 1 3145701 A coulple of weeks we tried a wine that I have not seen before in the LCBO and loved it. (I think it was 17.00). It is an Ozzie Shiraz called RED KNOT! Wed Nov 21 10:37:58 -0800 2007 3131509 69186 bjinyyz 1 3146012 Surprised that there hasn't been any mention of Cono Sur from Chile. They offer a 1500ml Cab/Shiraz and a Cab/Merlot for $14.05 (prefer the Cab/Shiraz). I'm sure everyone can figure out the math; a 750ml bottle for $7. For an all purpose quaffer it has impressive depth for the price. They also have a Sauvignon Blanc at the same price and size which is okay but nothing special. Wed Nov 21 12:20:52 -0800 2007 3131509 55233 schnauzer 1 3230783 Get a copy of today's Globe & Mail. Beppi's article is about exactly this. BTW I can recall when the bargain hunt was for bottles under $10. This isn't a generation gap thing as in "I remember when I was young..." This is price creep. Much about that in today's piece as well. Sat Dec 22 10:06:08 -0800 2007 3131509 12072 Googs 1 3230884 Chardonnay, under $15 at lCBO: Naked Grape (Unoaked), and Spinelli (Terre di Chieti - Italy) Sat Dec 22 10:52:22 -0800 2007 3131509 72386 cocolou 2 3231048 Santa Carolina, Barrica Selection, Syrah...wonderful!! I think they may have a couple of bottles left. We tried it last week, and next day ran back out to get more. It's that good! Sat Dec 22 12:23:44 -0800 2007 3230884 100701 millygirl 1 3231148 i have a new one.... a tetrapack aussie shiraz called Kelly's Revenge - $10.20 for the tetrapack, a real steal and a nice spicy, full-bodied read Sat Dec 22 13:15:22 -0800 2007 3131509 70876 LemonLauren 2 3231189 We had the Kelly's Revenge white, and it was pretty good also. Sat Dec 22 13:38:25 -0800 2007 3231148 100701 millygirl 1 3231590 Reds: Casillero Del Diablo Carmenere. (my all time fav.) Their Merlot is good as well. Henry of Phelam Baco Noir Inniskillin Pinot Noir- spot on with herbed roasted chicken & potatoes. Whites: Santa Carolina Chardonnay Wolf Blass Chardonnay Jackson Triggs Sauvignon Blanc Fetzer Fume Blanc. Dessert Wine: Orion Cabernet Franc Port- available only at the wine rack. Served this last New Years Eve with a vanilla bean mousse cake with chocolate ganache. It was out of this world!!! Sat Dec 22 17:44:33 -0800 2007 3131509 147682 PlayWithYourFood 2 3231835 I'd second Casillero Del Diablo Carmenere. I'm not a big fan of the other Casillero Del Diablo wines (the Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot are the others that I tried), but the Carmenere is really nice. I find that its pretty versatile but still tastes interesting. Sat Dec 22 20:47:39 -0800 2007 3231590 151928 Froster 3 3234511 I went with Billy's suggestion of TERA D'ALIGI 04 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, (Italy) for $11.95 to bring to the family Christmas dinner. Has a DVD attached to the neck of the bottle proclaiming it the "Red wine of the year 2007". We'll have to see! Mon Dec 24 09:59:09 -0800 2007 3231835 144150 looniePincher 4 3353018 I tried the Terra D'Aligi over Christmas and I have to say that this wine is amazing for the price. WOW, the whole family thought I was busting out some crazy expensive wine. I am shocked that this list does not have more wines from this house. Also, they have their under $8 line called Spinelli. Try Spinelli Montepulciano or better yet their sangiovese and get back to. I promise you, they are a steal! Thu Jan 31 13:21:31 -0800 2008 3234511 162360 Lonergan 5 3438171 Don't know if this is across the board, but it looks like the Peterborough LCBO is de-listing Terra D'Aligi. It was on the sale shelf this week for $9.50. I bought 6 bottles - there were a few more left. Tue Feb 26 17:30:34 -0800 2008 3353018 12383 Nyleve 2 5188729 Henry of Pelham Baco Noir 2005. Other years not even close. Must be 2005 for that one. Tue Nov 17 10:06:53 -0800 2009 3231590 210997 Sui_Mai 1 3239978 Here's the Star's year end round-up of plonk. A very good list I'd say although I would vehemently disagree with choosing any Fetzer wine. http://www.thestar.com/living/article/287125 Thu Dec 27 10:14:32 -0800 2007 3131509 12072 Googs 1 3241875 Hi K, I like the Barefoot Merlot...it's around 10 bucks . . . It's pretty tasty SB Thu Dec 27 23:23:55 -0800 2007 3131509 17544 snackboy 2 3243442 i can't believe that no one has mentioned Chateau Des Charmes, that's pretty sad. most of their varietals come in under $15 and are consistently rated amongst the top by John Szabo, James Chatto, David Lawrason et al. Fri Dec 28 14:39:27 -0800 2007 3241875 123951 insideman 1 3353031 Hi there, yeah I am new to this finding bargains thing but I have to say that for an under $15 wine, Terra D'Aligi or the Spinelli Sangiovese are a must have. How these guys are able to hit these prices are beyond me. Let me know what you think. Thu Jan 31 13:24:35 -0800 2008 3131509 162360 Lonergan 2 3361869 Based on a few recommendations above, I bought a bottle of the Terra D'Aligi....just sipping it right now and I must agree. For the price, it is well worth it. Very enjoyable, everyday house wine. Sun Feb 03 15:26:53 -0800 2008 3353031 100701 millygirl 1 3365373 My current faves under $15, and IMO could easily be mistaken for $18 wines: Red: El Burro Garnacha $12.85 - very nice Spanish red for the price - has a very decently long spicy finish White: Leaping Horse Chardonnay $11.75 - lovely tropical notes and lemony zesty finish. Mon Feb 04 18:35:45 -0800 2008 3131509 160324 JackInTheSun 2 3366454 I tried El Burro for the first time a couple of weeks ago, and I concur, for the price it is a pleasant surprise. Only a Vintages selection, unfortunately, so limited availability, but for a white, I suggest from Hungary the St Donatus Irsai Oliver, similar to a muscat, about $12. Tue Feb 05 08:22:57 -0800 2008 3365373 91415 hungry_pangolin 1 3369332 Now that I have half a case safely squirrelled away, I can highly recommend the Amberley 2003 Shiraz from Vintages...it's from Margaret River region in western Australia and is just so flavourful! Just under $15. Wed Feb 06 05:07:24 -0800 2008 3131509 14906 Food Tourist 2 3369398 Not that this list is missing any suggestions, but someone brought over a Chilean tetra pak wine the other day...Likan. the Cabernet, it was quite nice. My general approach for sub-$15 wine buying involves going to a big LCBO with a big Vintages (e.g. summerhill or queens quay in TO) and scanning the aisles for a "strike price". Normally end up in the south of France (languedoc), italian or californian sections. Usually I'm going to someone's place for dinner/drinks and actually looking for a label that catches my eye and, when brought to my host's place, looks more thoughtful than a Wolf Blass or some mainstream stuff like that. This approach is probably repugnant to wine purists, but it usually works and is fun. Wed Feb 06 05:58:20 -0800 2008 3369332 157056 grandgourmand 1 3373740 I found I needed to find a wine critic with the same palate as myself. After much comparing I find David Lawrason and Natalie Maclean match my tastes. Natalie does a review of Vintages releases here. http://www.nataliemaclean.com/wine_picks/ I currently on the hunt for this: YALI RESERVE CARMÉNÈRE 2005 Chile | Viña Ventisquero VINTAGES 48306 | 750 mL | $ 11.90 Thu Feb 07 10:15:34 -0800 2008 3131509 12840 Mila 1 4164859 Within our circle, we've been reaching for the Cono Sur as of late: Viognier for whites, Merlot or Pinot Noir for reds. $10 or so a pop. Even better deals are the $14 1500mL blends. Also, the new Fuzion from Argentina (70% Shiraz, 30% Malbec) has been absolutely blowing through the LCBOs as of late at $7.45. As of the moment, the only stores in the city with appreciable stock left (prolly just got in an order) are the Atrium on Bay, Yonge south of Steeles, and Yonge and Hwy. 7. Crazy burn. Tue Nov 11 10:54:18 -0800 2008 3131509 14419 Chester Eleganté 2 5186028 Hi Gang, Thought I'd give this topic a fresh bump and get the discussion going again. I'm looking for your favorite reliably good RED wine under $15-$20 a bottle that's ready to drink now, and prefereably has a big round full flavour with lots of fruit and tannins, perhaps ones that are good with tomato sauced pasta and/or grilled beef. Merlot and beaujolais need not apply. :-) Anyone? Mon Nov 16 12:05:09 -0800 2009 4164859 81625 TorontoTips 3 5186304 While I am no wine expert, I have truly fallen in love with the 2007 Cline Zinfandel, which is $14.00 at LCBO. Only problem with the wine is that it can be a little hard to find. My local LCBO says they have 53 bottles, but none on the shelf or in the back apparently (I asked). I do believe that the wine fits you askings for a "big round full flavour with lots of fruit and tannins" Mon Nov 16 13:29:17 -0800 2009 5186028 13095 camp1980 4 5187270 Perez Cruz Cab from Chile in VIntages $14.95 Mon Nov 16 18:52:20 -0800 2009 5186304 117410 Vern Ryerse 3 5188054 El Burro Garnacha. trust me. tastes like a $20+ bottle of wine. let it breathe for 30 min or so. Perez Cruz also is nice, but it becomes excellent if you let it breathe for 1-2 hrs. Tue Nov 17 06:29:57 -0800 2009 5186028 120740 atomeyes 3 5189997 Wow, lots of great suggestions, and good advice, too! I'm not afraid to spend a few bucks if the result is worth it, so I'd eagerly take your advice in the $15-$20, $20-$25, and higher categories. Same criteria - large, full-bodied reds, lots of sruit, lots of tannins. Cheers! Tue Nov 17 16:48:48 -0800 2009 5186028 81625 TorontoTips 4 5195928 you also will have better success if you get Garnache or garnache blends. tends to be really juicy and you can find great value. El Burro is a garnache Fri Nov 20 05:29:09 -0800 2009 5189997 120740 atomeyes 1 5188279 Recently, my high-value go-to has been Chateau Ducla $14.95 http://www.lcbo.com/lcbo-ear/lcbo/product/details.do?language=EN&itemNumber=162461 It's a sexy Bordeaux (2006). Really earthy with a hint of pencil shavings. Big fruit on the palate. Definately worth a try. Tue Nov 17 07:55:52 -0800 2009 3131509 27348 Hondapendragon 2 5198169 Ssshhh about the Chateau Ducla. Oh well. At least I stocked up when it came out. Sat Nov 21 07:58:23 -0800 2009 5188279 12072 Googs 3 5205471 I know, I thought very carefully before I decided to share it with everyone here... but I figure it's good karma. Tue Nov 24 12:03:48 -0800 2009 5198169 27348 Hondapendragon 1 5188339 While not a specific recommendation, I’ve got a suggestion. One of the resources that I’ve used to help me is a reference book written by a local Ottawa wine writer, Rod Phillips, who lists the “The 500 Best Wines in the LCBO” annually. I’m going out to pick up my 2010 version toady. Not only wines under $15 – but a good resource with lots of solid recommendations for lower-priced bottles. It’s a handy reference because of its size and the manner in which it is organized. It lists the wines’ stock numbers and price and has a description, rating and a few lines to write your own observations. I certainly don’t always agree with Mr. Phillips, but I’ve tried many a reasonable wine which I would not have otherwise found. For some reason, I almost always agree with his glowing recommendations of just-over$15-reds, sparkling wines and port. Don’t tend to like his recommended whites as much but I’m still trying to find my way through the whites. On my own I’ve found that the Santa Carolina Chilean wines already noted are good quality and value. The reliable, but not terribly inspiring French Veille Ferme is always drinklable and a new one that is much to my liking is an Austrailian shiraz “The Lackey” from Kilikanoon. Tue Nov 17 08:16:51 -0800 2009 3131509 1102552 7Cees 1 5188756 Though I have never been caught up in the whole Malbec craze, the 2007 Bianchi Famiglia Malbec is a steal at $14.95. This is a big red, very juicy with lots of red fruit. It is however smooth with a very nice long supple finish to it. If you try this and then try Fuzion you will understand and appreciate where you extra $7.00 is going. Fuzion is okay for its price, but it doesn't compare with the more refine wines coming out of that Region. http://www.lcbo.ca/lcbo-ear/lcbo/product/details.do?language=EN&itemNumber=677559 Tue Nov 17 10:13:29 -0800 2009 3131509 280084 JPJ 2 5189100 They currently have a Berenger for under $10 and it is quite nice..i have found it at numerous LCBO's, and when you decant it, it gets even better. And for $10 you cannot go wrong. The Tue Nov 17 11:43:17 -0800 2009 5188756 26558 MiniMom 3 5189179 If you're looking for something a little bit different that will come as a surprise, check out: BODEGAS CASTANO LA CASONA MONASTRELL LCBO Item # 143743 This wine recently had a limited pre-release in the GTA and it sold out 90% between Wednesday and Sunday across all stores. It's now regular list. This wine costs ***8.95***. I've been lucky enough to have a lot of good wines in my time, so I'm under no illusion that this wine is more than a really solid house wine, but at the price point and a few minutes of decanting I think it drinks better than the vast majority of the Argentine Malbecs that are making their way onto this list. And at $8.95 it can't hurt to give it a whirl. It comes from the "forgotten" wine region of Yecla in Southeastern Spain. The grape is Monastrell, or as les francais call it, Mourvedre (heavy component of my fave CNduP). Enjoy! Tue Nov 17 12:04:58 -0800 2009 5189100 123890 daverb 1 5190010 Hey gang! Great suggestions and great advice too! (I'm never sure about when to drink, how long to let it breathe, decanting, etc.) Since you're all so good, how about some suggestions in the $15-$20, $20-25. and $25+ categories? Same criteria - ready to drink, big bold reds, full-bodied with lots of fruit and tannins and style. Cheers! Tue Nov 17 16:53:12 -0800 2009 3131509 81625 TorontoTips 2 5191219 I would suggest the J Lohr Seven Oaks Cab Sauv in the $20-$25 range ($21.95 at the LCBO). From their website: "Aged in oak for more than a year, this densely coloured red is packed with intense aromas of black cherry, blackcurrant, cedar, vanilla, and spices. Full-bodied and sweet-centred, this Cabernet will beautifully complement braised beef with a mildly spicy sauce." Delicious. Wed Nov 18 07:50:29 -0800 2009 5190010 83045 sam_1 1 5192739 A very good Cote du Rhone is being released this Saturday (Nov 21) at $15: 2007 Domaine Galevan "Paroles de Femme" (LCBO# 125930) The previous vintage was excellent QPR, fruit dominant medium bodied with sufficient complexity and balance to compete with wines $10 more. The 2007 vintage is reputed to be one of the best vintages ever for Southern Rhone. I expect this vintage to be even more fruity but maybe somewhat less complexity. This wine is worth buying by the case at this price. This was my party wine for the summer. Wed Nov 18 16:34:44 -0800 2009 3131509 73124 syoung 1 5197985 Cawarra cab-shiraz blend is right around the $10 mark, and is good - too good. t Sat Nov 21 05:52:10 -0800 2009 3131509 255113 trishna