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1994 Vintage Ports – Wednesday, January 24, 2024


Mark your calendar for Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 6:30 PM. Your experience will
include 8 Ports from Oporto’s best producers and a selection of canapés to complement
the wines. Due to the alcohol content of Port, neither a reception wine nor a mystery wine
will be served.

Further details appear below. Click here to sign up.


Location: St. Paul’s Church 227 Bloor St E
Date: Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Registration: 6:00 PM
Tasting: 6:30 PM
Cost: Members of Toronto Winetasters or Toronto Vintners Club $113; Non-Members $155.
HST Included. The first guest of Toronto Winetasters Member $113. Registration for this
event is limited to 36 people. We expect the seats to sell out so please register earlier to avoid
disappointment.

Ticket sales/registrations are final. However, if the event is completely sold out and we can sell the ticket to someone on the waiting list, then we will issue a refund.


Paula Green – Speaker

Vintage Port is made only in good years and 1994 was an outstanding year that resulted
in rich, but not overripe, wines. These wines are now 30 years old, and ready to enjoy even
though we could be convinced that they have decades ahead of them. We have a great
selection of eight wines, with the expected star of the evening being the Taylor Fladgate. But wait, the single vineyard  Quinta da Eira Velha is a worthy challenger for the gold medal. Alas, given the lineup that you will find detailed below, the wine-of-the-night is not a slam dunk.

The wines will be carefully decanted and the chef will prepare canapés to complement
the wines. Paula Green will be your speaker and her enthusiasm and knowledge of Port
will enhance your experience. Paula possesses her Intro Court of Master Sommelier
and she is currently taking Certified Sommelier courses with one of Canada’s six Master
Sommeliers.

Further, ViniPortugal certifies that Paula obtained the degree of “Wines of
Portugal Ambassador”. Can you think of a better way to spend a chilly winter evening?

Click here to sign up.

Full list of 1994 Port wines that will be served:

  • Churchill’s Vintage Port
  • Croft Vintage Port
  • Duff Gordon Vintage Port
  • Martinez Vintage Port
  • Quinta da Eira Velha Single Quinta Vintage Port
  • Smith Woodhouse Vintage Port
  • Taylor Fladgate Late Bottled Vintage Port
  • Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port
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2023 Holiday Party


Tuesday 12th – St Pauls’s, Bloor Street

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve been naughty or nice as Santa will soon bring you the annual Winetasters’ Holiday Party. Last year our members were a thirsty lot. Santa learned his lesson and his sack will include extra wine and food this year. 

The cellar elves have been busy and already pulled over 100 bottles to bring to the event. There will be lots of Bordeaux and Burgundy as well as some special bottles from around the globe. We’ll provide further details in a future communication. For now, you’ll find some featured wines listed below. We need to also highlight that this year’s featured wine is a 1912 D’Oliveiras Verdelho Vintage Madeira. Tickets for this wine are $50 for a pour, which is at least 50% less than the wine’s fair value. There will be less than 40 pours available so register early if you want to make sure that you will get to taste this 111-year-old gem.

This walk-around event is once again in the Great Hall at St. Paul’s, Bloor Street East.   The Great Hall was the original church on the site, built in the 1840s.  It’s a lovely example of Gothic architecture that is also conveniently located a short walk from Bloor Station and close to ample parking. 

Sold already?  Sign up here, or read on ….

How The Event Works

It’s a walk-around party, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to socialize.  The wines are set out at five serving tables. Each will have a selection of wines at the start of the evening, both red and white. When you arrive you will be given a packet including a list of the initial set of wines and where to find them. Serving tables will be replenished throughout the evening. The new wines will be identified at the various stations as the wines appear, so look out for the “pink” signs, or just listen for the buzz in the room. Eighty percent of the wines are single-bottle lots only. After 20 or so pours they are gone.

Your packet includes an initial allocation of 70 tickets to buy tasting samples (~1 OZ each) at the serving tables. Pricing of the pour starts at 2 tickets.  If you find yourself in need of additional tickets they can be purchased at the desk at the event for $1 each (cash or credit).

The Wines

We’ll be posting more info closer to the event, but you’ll have a chance to sample some rare finds, such as:

France
Vintage Wine
1978 Chateau Leoville Barton, Saint-Julien, France
1985 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau, Rhone, France
1985 Domaine Pothier-Rieusset Les Rugiens, Pommard Premier Cru, France
1987 Maison Jaffelin Les Champimonts, Beaune Premier Cru, France
1987 Maison Jaffelin Pommard, Cote de Beaune, France
1988 Chateau Rauzan-Segla, Margaux, France
1990 Chateau Pichon-Longueville au Baron de Pichon-Longueville, Pauillac, France
1990 Chateau Latour, Pauillac, France
1994 Chateau Magdelaine, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, France
1995 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau, Rhone, France
1995 Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, France
1999 Chateau La Nerthe Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee des Cadettes, Rhone, France
2000 Joseph Drouhin Les Baudes, Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, France
2000 Domaine Jamet Cote Rotie, Rhone, France
2000 Domaine Daniel Rion & Fils Les Charmes, Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, France
2002 Domaine Bourillon Dorléans Vouvray Moëlleux Château Chevrier, Loire, France
2002 Chateau de Fonsalette Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Syrah Reserve, France
2003 Domaine Bourillon Dorleans Vouvray La Bourdonnerie Demi Sec, Loire, France
2004 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau, Rhone, France
2004 Henri Boillot Les Baudines, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, France
2004 Domaine Louis Moreau Valmur, Chablis Grand Cru, France
2004 PulignyJean Boillot & Fils Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Clos de la Mouchère la Mouchere, Burgundy, France
2005 Chanson Pere & Fils Blagny, Meursault Premier Cru, France
2007 Remoissenet Pere & Fils Morgeot, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, France
2009 Henri Boillot Chassagne-Montrachet, Cote de Beaune, France
2009 Henri Boillot Meursault, , Cote de Beaune, France
2009 Chanson Pere & Fils Perrieres, Meursault Premier Cru, France
Other Old World
Vintage Wine
1994 Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port, Portugal
1995 Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany
1995 Michele Chiarlo Cerequio, Barolo DOCG, Italy
1998 Balthasar Ress Hattenheimer Nussbrunnen Riesling Spatlese, Rheingau, Germany
1999 Balthasar Ress Hochheimer Domdechaney Riesling Spatlese, Rheingau, Germany
2000 Marchesi Frescobaldi Castello di Nipozzano ‘Mormoreto’ Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy
2001 Rioja Gran Bodegas Muga ‘Prado Enea’ Gran Reserva, Prado Enea – Muga
2007 Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port, Portugal
2009 Gran Vino Pazo Barrantes Albarino, Rias Baixas, Spain
2010 R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva Rosado, Rioja DOCa, Spain
New World
1986 Brown Brothers Koombahla Cabernet Sauvignon, King Valley, Australia
1993 Penfolds Grange Bin 95, Australia
1996 Chateau Montelena The Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA
1997 Charles Melton Nine Popes Shiraz – Grenache, Barossa Valley, Australia
2000 Beringer Vineyards Knights Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County, USA
2000 Philip Togni Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA
2000 Chateau Montelena The Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA
2001 Philip Togni Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA
2002 Katnook Estate Prodigy Shiraz, Coonawarra, Australia
2005 Cheval des Andes, Mendoza, Argentina
2006 Ventisquero Syrah Pangea Syrah, Colchagua Valley, Chile
2010 Mount Pleasant Single Vineyard Lovedale Semillon, Hunter Valley, Australia
2011 Catena Zapata ‘Catena Alta’ Chardonnay, Mendoza, Argentina
2011 Henry of Pelham Select Late Harvest Vidal, Ontario, Canada
2012 Southbrook Vineyards Poetica Chardonnay, Niagara Peninsula, Canada

Feature Wine – 1912 D’Oliveiras Verdelho Vintage Madeira

Toronto Winetasters is known for its Feature Wine at the Holiday party: a very old Port or Madeira.  This year we’ve dug deep into the cellar and are excited to pour a rare Verdelho Madeira.   This is a fantastic opportunity – it’s not every day you can taste a 111 year-old wine! Madeira is famed for its longevity and this will be a real treat.  For context: 1912 is remembered as the year when the Republic of China is established, Arizona becomes the 48th state, the Titanic sinks, and Woodrow Wilson is elected president. You will be tasting history!

This rare and valuable wine is in limited to less than 40 pours.

Admin

Register here.  You will receive a confirmation email.
Cancellations accepted up to December 1, 2022 – Cindy Taylor (416.458.3147). No reservations by phone, please.

As always with tastings, please ask your guests not to wear aftershave, cologne or perfume. We do get first-timers at our event who may not be familiar with our etiquette. A scent-free environment ensures we all get to fully experience this exceptional assembly of wines.

And, of course, do not drink and drive.  The subway is very nearby.

The 411:
Location:     St. Paul’s Church 227 Bloor St E
Date:           Tuesday, December 12
Registration: 6:00 PM
Tasting:     6:30 PM
Fees:                Members of Toronto Winetasters or Toronto Vintners $150;  Non-Members $200.  HST Included
1912 Madeira   $50

 

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Grand Marque and Grower Producer Champagne

Contrasting the Two Faces of Champagne

A Special Event cohosted by the Toronto Vintners Club and Winetasters of Toronto

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

For most of history, champagne had a single face. If it wasn’t for household names such as Moet, Bollinger, Laurent Perrier, and a dozen or so more houses, champagne, as we know it, would not exist. The great houses, or grand marques, of this magical wine region, created a global brand of quality. Practically everyone associates champagne with times of joy and celebration. This is the face of champagne that everyone knows and loves.

Perhaps without realizing it, the grand marque houses also laid a foundation for another face of champagne to flourish. The grower-producer (or récoltant-manipulant) movement began in earnest in the 1970s. These producers typically share a common story. Their families historically grew grapes that were sold to the grand marques and a new generation decided they wanted changes; they wanted to make their own wines that exhibited their vigneron philosophy and terroir. The wine-making philosophy of Burgundy and Spain influenced their thinking and they began making and marketing their own wines. The early years were difficult but these artisan producers preserved and their efforts were rewarded. Their wines, showcasing a new style,  tapped into the rich market created by the grand marques.

It took decades for champagne’s second face to thrive. While their market share is tiny, their influence is enormous. The grower-producers inspired and refreshed wine-making in the region. Grand marque houses took notice and the outcome of this attention is increased quality and diversity across the board. For wine lovers, no other time in history has produced more interesting champagnes. Choice and quality have never been greater or more exciting.

Toronto Vintners Club and Winetasters of Toronto have joined forces to provide members and their guests with an event that demonstrates the merits of these two important faces of champagne. Come experience a fun and educational evening exploring champagne styles that appeal to you.

Your evening will include a selection of hors d’oeuvres to pair with 11 exquisite champagnes.

Member price $145, including HST. Guest price $195. Our value proposal includes about 500 ML of wine at our acquisition cost of $61, food cost of $40, venue cost of $25, and servers $6. A Toronto restaurant would charge at least $260 for the wine alone.

To register click here.

Wine portions for this event will be controlled by tickets to ensure that everyone experiences each wine. We will endeavor to have equitable distribution of the hors d’oeuvres.

Please arrange for your safe and responsible transportation to and from the event.

The wines

Reception

  • Vilmart et Cie Grande Réserve 1er Cru Champagne

Blanc de Blanc comparison

  • Charels Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc
  • Diebolt-Vallois Brut Blanc de Blancs

Pinot Noir dominant comparison

  • Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut Champagne
  • Savart Overture Champagne

Traditional blend comparison 1

  • Laurent Perrier La Cuvée Brut Champagne
  • Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve

Traditional blend comparison 2

  • Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial
  • Marc Hebrart Mes Favorites Vieilles Vignes Brut

Rose comparison

  • Pommery Rose
  • R.H. Coutier Grand Cru Brut Rose

 

Tasting notes

Vilmart et Cie Grande Réserve 1er Cru Champagne ($74)

In this bright and harmonious champagne, the fine and energetic streams of bubbles effortlessly carry flavors that range from crisp Asian pear and tangerine to slivered almonds lifted with a hint of chopped ginger and elderflower. Long and creamy finish. Disgorged October 2019. Drink now: 2025. Score – 92 (Alison Napjus, winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2021)

Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc ($82, regularly $100)

[Although this bottle is not from the same lot as the one commented on below, the wine will be similar in quality and style.]Inaugurated in May 2018, this new cuvée is inspired by the first blanc de blancs produced by the house in 1947, long before the style was in vogue. Made mainly from the 2012 vintage, with 20% reserve wine dating from 2005, this wine is not a reduced version of the Blanc des Millénaires, but rather an aperitif-style cuvée. A fresh, pure, and elegant wine with aromas of white-fleshed peach and grapefruit embellished with a few floral notes. The deliciously saline palate is supported by acidity that blends throughout, leaving a chalky, creamy feel on the finish. Drinking period: 2020 to 2023. Score – 94. (Christelle Guibert)

Diebolt-Vallois Brut Blanc de Blancs ($102)

The Diebolt and Vallois families have a serious history in the Côte des Blancs. The Vallois family has been growing vines in Cuis since the 15th century; the grandfather of current proprietor Jacques Diebolt began making estate-bottled champagne at the beginning of the 20th century. Champagne Diebolt-Vallois was created in 1960 when Jacques married Nadia Vallois and merged the estate. This Blanc de Blancs blends Cramant, Chouilly, and Le Mesnil sur Oger, all fermented in stainless, then moved to large oak foudres until final cepage is determined. The reserve wines were also kept in large oak foudres. The wine spent three years on lees prior to disgorgement with 9 g/l. Ample patisserie, nougat, green apple, and lemon are held in by a brace of citrus acidity that circles the growing expansive middle, finishing with a riffing citrus pith that lingers long and filagreed. This has a fine touch that reels the density in deftly, allowing for a highly drinkable rich champagne. (Vendor website)

Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut Champagne ($91)

A graceful Champagne, with flavors of black cherry, Asian pear, toast point, and salted almond dancing across the palate. Bright and buoyant, with a fine, lacy mousse and delicate notes of lime blossom, ground coffee, and exotic spices playing on the finish. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. [Ready to] Drink now. Highly Recommended. Score – 93. (Alison Napjus, winespectator.com, Nov. 30, 2022)

Savart Overture Champagne ($149)

Disgorged in October 2018 with 4.5 grams per liter dosage the latest rendition of Savart’s NV Brut Premier Cru L’Ouverture is a blend of the 2014 2015 and 2016 vintages produced entirely from Pinot Noir some 30% of which is purchased as grapes. Offering up a classy bouquet of minty yellow orchard fruit white flowers fresh peach and warm pastry it’s medium to full-bodied fine-boned and elegant with a pinpoint mousse ripe but racy acids and a long finish. Pristinely balanced its understated delicacy is typical both of the site and Savart’s style. Fred Savart’s Champagnes from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grown in the villages of Écueil and Villers-aux-Noeuds have rapidly become some of the most sought-after, and thanks to their production, hard-to-find wines in the region. Savart abandoned a fledgling career as a professional footballer to return to this four-hectare domaine in 2005 and the vines are now farmed without pesticides herbicides or synthetic fertilizers. His vins clairs ferment in tanks barrels and demi-muids spending some ten months sur lies with or without malolactic fermentation before triage under natural cork with neither filtration fining nor sulfites. Dosage is minimal. These are delicate incisive and quietly intense: contemplative Champagnes that reward attention though they’re dangerously drinkable too. While it’s hardly necessary to fan the flames of already insatiable worldwide demand all these releases come warmly recommended. (Wine Advocate: 93 Points)

Laurent Perrier La Cuvée Brut Champagne ($76)

A pale gold robe. Very fine bubbles feed a very persistent bead of foam. A delicate nose with aromas of fresh citrus fruits and white flowers. The complexity of the wine is expressed in successive notes such as vine peach and white fruits. A perfect balance between freshness and finesse with very present fruity flavors at the end of the tasting. (Producer’s website)

Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve ($128)

The Bérêche wines are firm in structure with ample body. They are amongst the most sought after and coveted growers, rightfully considered to be one of the elite producers in Champagne. The Brut Réserve is equal parts Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier. The wine displays lots of stone fruit, orange citrus and a strong stony minerality. Elegant, powerful and balanced, this is a stunning Champagne. (Vendor website)

Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial ($81)

Pale straw in color with a fine mousse; defined aromas of roasted nuts, rye bread toast, and grapefruit; the palate is extra-dry with a just-shy-of-medium body and lovely replay of flavors from the nose with a mineral note on a clean finish. (LCBO’s website)

Marc Hebrart Mes Favorites Vieilles Vignes Brut ($80)

The NV Brut Premier Cru Mes Favorites Vieilles Vignes is a new cuvée for Hébrart that’s well worth seeking out, derived from superior, south-facing sites in Mareuil-sur-Ay that also inform his Special Club bottling. The inaugural release, based on the 2014 vintage, is showing very well, wafting from the glass with aromas of apples, pears, tangerine, white flowers, spice, and pastry cream. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, concentrated, and nicely structured, with good cut and dry extract, as well as all the charm that defines the house style. (93 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate)

Pommery Rose ($80)

This prestigious Brut Rosé is overflowing with strawberry and raspberry fruit aromas and an elegant brioche note. Flattering, with raspberry fruit on the palate, exhibiting plenty of finesse and a very long finish. Excellent choice with hors d’oeuvres, shellfish, or with berry desserts. Score – 95 Decanter

R.H. Coutier Grand Cru Brut Rose Champagne (Estimated $110)

This is a blend of 85% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Noir. 60% comes from the 2016 vintage with 40% from a reserve. It was finished with a dosage of 7 grams per liter. The nose shows cream and a bit of strawberry with a light citrus lift. The palate is moderate in weight for a rose with flavors of cream, strawberries, and a blood orange lift on the finish. (Vendor website)

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Wednesday, May 24 – Montelena vs Heitz

A reception wine will also be served and canapes will accompany the tastings. Maximum attendance is 66.

  • Cabernet Sauvignon Estate – Chateau Montelena 1998
  • Cabernet Sauvignon Estate – Chateau Montelena 2002
  • Cabernet Sauvignon Estate – Chateau Montelena 2003
  • Cabernet Sauvignon Estate – Chateau Montelena 2007
  • Cabernet Sauvignon, Bella Oaks Vineyard – Heitz 2004
  • Cabernet Sauvignon, Martha’s Vineyard – Heitz 2004
  • Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa – Heitz 2006
  • Cabernet Sauvignon, Trailside Vineyard – Heitz 2004

Date, Location & Price & Sign Up

Date:          Wed May 24
Time:          6:30 pm – Registration & Reception,   6:45 – Event start
Cost:           $170 members;   $270 non-members,  HST Included
Location:    St. Paul’s Church 227 Bloor St E (between Church St. and Mt. Pleasant Rd. on the south side)

Sign-up: here

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Ch Beauregard – Pouilly Fuisseė

More information about the event will follow shortlym but here is a list of the wines to be poured”

Pouilly-Fuisse, Vignes Blanches – Ch de Beauregard, 2006
Pouilly-Fuisse, les Châtaignieres – Ch de Beauregard, 2006
Pouilly-Fuisse, Les Insarts – Ch de Beauregard, 2006
Pouilly-Fuisse, La Maréchaude – Ch de Beauregard, 2006
Pouilly-Fuisse, Vers Cras – Ch de Beauregard, 2006
Pouilly-Fuisse, Vers Pouilly – Ch de Beauregard, 2006
Pouilly-Fuissé, Vers La Maréchaude – Château de Beauregard, 2007

 

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Pommard & Its Neighbours – Wednesday February 22nd

Our tasting this month focuses on Pommard where the most powerful red wines of the Côte de Beaune are to be found.  Complex soils with a high proportion of iron-rich clay produce deep-colored, relatively tannic wines.  The wines are not shy, with aromas that are redolent of blackberry, bilberry, or gooseberry, cherry pit, and ripe plum. Often, wild and feline notes develop with age. At full maturity, they tend towards leather, chocolate, and pepper.  A “rich” wine? Certainly.  The best wines need time, and we are fortunate that the wines in this tasting mostly have a couple of decades of bottle age – the vintages run from 1990 to 2005.  Our tasting features three 1er Cru and two village wines.  The detailed list is below.

For comparison and contrast we pour wines from three other communes, two close neighbors, and one a second cousin – all from Louis Jadot’s 1998 vintage.

Volnay, immediately SW of Pommard may be thought of as the polar opposite of Pommard in spite of its proximity.  It yields some of the finest and most elegant red wines of the Côte de Beaune and might be twinned with Chambolle-Musigny in the Côte de Nuits, for the high active chalk content in the soil and comparatively low clay content.  We are pouring the 1998 Volnay, Clos de la Barre, Louis Jadot.

Savigny-Les Beaune is on the NW side of Pommard.  It is a value appellation almost equaling Beaune itself.  Locally dubbed “Theological, Nourishing, & Prophylactic” the wines fall between Pommard & Volnay stylistically.  We are pouring Jadot’s 1888 La Dominode

The second cousin is Morey-St-Denis, lying some 30 km NE of Pommard in the Côte de Nuits.  Morey is sometimes ignored between its two famous neighbors, Chambolle-Musigny and Gevrey-Chambertin, but its wines are of equal class, combining elegance and structure, and usually better value.

We are back for this event at the beautiful and convenient Great Hall at St. Paul’s Bloor Street.  The evening will begin with a short reception where we will pour La Chablisienne Les Vénérables Vieilles Vignes Chablis;  giving you the opportunity to catch up with friends.  We will also be serving Canapes, chosen to complement the wines.

Date, Location & Price & Sign Up

Date:          Wed Feb 22
Time:          6:30 pm – Registration & Reception,   6:45 – Event start
Cost:           $115 members;   $165 non-members,  HST Included
Location:    St. Paul’s Church 227 Bloor St E
Sign-up: here

Please do not drink and drive, there is transit nearby.

List of Wines

Pommard – Henri De Villamont 2005
Pommard 1er Cru, Clos de Verger – Jean-Claude Boisset 2003
Pommard 1er Cru, Pezerolles – Billard-Gonnet 1997
Pommard 1er Cru, La Refène – Dominique Laurent 1996
Pommard, Les Perrières – Dom. Raymond Launay 1990
Morey-St-Denis, Le Clos des Ormes 1er cru – Jadot 1998
Savigny-les-Beaune, La Dominode 1er cru – Jadot 1998
Volnay, Clos de la Barre – Jadot 1998

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The Ports of Taylor Fladgate – Wednesday January 25th

[Skip to pricing, location & sign up info at the end]

Well, winter is truly upon us and what better antidote than a Port tasting?  Port lovers are very familiar with the wines of Taylor Fladgate.  This port-only house has produced high-quality port wines since 1692.  Our tasting focuses on the house.  The core of the tasting includes 4 wines from the outstanding 1994 vintage: vintage from both 750 ML and from Magnum formats (the latter giving more gradual development) and 2 1994 Late Bottled Vintage ports bottled in different years – it will be fun to figure out which is which in our semi-blind tastting.  Julia Harding MW on Purple Pages  had this to say about the Taylor 1994 Vintage Port:  “Deep garnet, not as dark as the Graham’s. Sweet, more red fruit, spicy damson, spirit still evident. Then some savoury leather. Generous but so fluid, lots of spice. Silky tannins, much less power and darkness than on the Graham’s. Ready earlier? More elegant but perhaps overall less impressive. (JH)  18 pts* – Drink 2015-2035.”

If you consider 30 years of aging to be insufficient then don’t worry as we have covered that base with the vintage 1970 and another harvested in 1987 from the highly regarded single vineyard Quinta de Vargellas. This is single vineyard bottling  is only made in years where the house does not declare a vintage (other than 1970 when they did due to the impending loss of part of the vineyard from a project to dam the Duoro).  Jancis Robinson wrote this in 2016: “Dark blackish ruby. Big, broad, blustering and bold. Sweet and beefy – everyone’s favourite rugby player? This was served blind and I took it for a Fonseca.  David Guimaraens thought that the spirit then used was responsible for this character (he came back to Portugal from Australia in 1990).   17.5 pts*, drink – 2002-2020″

Looking for something fresher? How about Taylor vintage ports from 2000 and 2007?  The 2007 is in 375 ml bottles, which possible accelerates development compared to 750 ml.    A full list of the wines is below.

The evening will begin with a taste of Bubbles and short reception period when you can catch up with fellow members.  The kitchen will also serve appetizers, cheese and chocolate to complement these stunning and rare wines.

The event will take place in the Great Hall of St Paul’s Church, Bloor St E.  This magnificent hall is where we recently had our very successful Holiday Party.

Sign up now to reserve your place at this outsanding event.

* Jancis Robinson Ratings:
18 pts = “a cut above superior”
17 pts = “superior”

List of wines

1994 Vintage Port – Taylor’s
1994 Vintage Port – Taylor Fladgate , 1500 ml
1994 LBV Port (bottled 2000) – Taylor’s
1994 LBV Port (bottled 1999) – Taylor’s
1970 Vintage Port – Taylor’s (Morgan Furze, London)
1987 Vintage Port, Quinta da Vargellas – Taylor’s
2000 Vintage Port – Taylor Fladgate
2007 Vintage Port – Taylor Fladgate , 375 ml

Date, Location & Sign Up

Date:          Wed Jan 25
Time:          6:30 pm – Registration & Reception,   6:45 – Event start
Cost:           $125 members;   $175 non-members,  HST Included
Location:    St. Paul’s Church 227 Bloor St E
Sign-up: here

Please do not drink and drive.

 

 

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2022 Holiday Party – List Of Wines

Wine Caregory No of Tickets*
Chardonnay, Quarry Road  – Tawse Winery – 2007 White 2
Tawse Chardonney – 2008 White 1
Gewurztraminer, Quarry Road – Tawse Winery – 2008 White 1
Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett – Egon Muller – 2007 White 17
Auxerrois, Moenchereben – Rolly Gassmann – 2008 White 1
Gewurztraminer, Oberer Weingarten VT – Rolly Gassmann – 2008 White 2
Riesling, Pflaenzerreben – Rolly Gassmann – 2007 White 2
Chassagne-Montrachet – Château de Puligny-Montrachet – 2003 White 7
Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru, Les Referts – Remoissenet Père & Fils – 2007 White 11
Pouilly-Fuissé, Vers Pouilly – Château de Beauregard – 2007 White 3
Vouvray Moelleux – Bourillon D’Orleans – 1970 White 2
Vouvray Moelleux, Ch Chevrier – Domaine Bourillon – 1996 White 2
Vouvray Moelleux, Ch Chevrier – Domaine Bourillon – 2000 White 2
Chardonnay, Montebello – Ridge – 2008 White 6
Grenache, Nine Popes – Charles Melton – 1997 Red 6
GSM, The Steading – Torbreck – 2003 Red 3
Shiraz, Woodcutters – Torbreck – 2005 Red 2
Penfolds Grange Bin 95, Australia – 1993 Red 56
Tawse Pinot Noir – 2012 Red 2
Merlot, Cuvée Alexandre, Apalta Vineyard – Casa Lapostolle – 2004 Red 2
Cabernet Sauvignon, Don Melchor – Concha Y Toro – 2006 Red 9
Château Rahoul – 1995 Red 3
Chateau La Cardonne – 1995 Red 2
Chateau Clerc-Millon2 – 1978 Red 8
Château Haut Brion – 1990 Red 56
Château Gloria – 1978 Red 9
Chateau Talbot – 1978 Red 8
Chateau Cos d’Estournel – 1970 Red 17
Pommard, Les Chaponnières 1er Cru – Dom Parent – 1990 Red 8
Pommard, Les Rugiens 1er Cru – Jadot – 1998 Red 7
Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Vieux Télégraphe – GH Bernier Fils – 1982 Red 3
Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Chapelle, Rhone, France – 1992 Red 17
Cahors – Lagrezette – 1996 Red 2
Cahors – Lagrezette – 1997 Red 2
Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia Cicala, Barolo DOCG, Italy – 2012 Red 13
Alion – Alion (Vega Sicilia) – 2012 Red 8
Bodegas Muga Reserva – Crianza, Rioja DOCa, Spain – 2002 Red 1
Tinto – Palacio De Arganza – 1970 Red 2
Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve – Beringer – 1994 Red 8
Cabernet Sauvignon Estate – Chateau Montelena – 1996 Red 12
Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley Reserve – Beringer – 2000 Red 4
Cabernet Sauvignon – Thelema – 1992 Red 2
Château de Fargues – 1985 Dessert 7
Château d’Yquem – 1996 Dessert 44
Madeira Malvasia Reserva Reserva Velha – Barbeito – 1920 Fortified Reserved at sign-up
Vintage Port – Smith Woodhouse – 1983 Fortified 7
Vintage Port – Delaforce – 1985 Fortified 3
Vintage Port, Quinta da Vargellas – Taylor’s – 1987 Fortified 4

* Attendees will receive 70 tickets in their packets.

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Our Famous Holiday Party Returns!

Wednesday December 7th – St Pauls’s, Bloor Street

Much has changed since 2019, the last time we were able to host our Annual Winetasters’ Holiday Party.  While not all of that change has been good, we have all been good (right?), and so we deserve a bit of holiday cheer!  Our cellar has had 3 extra years of rest and promises to provide us lots of treasures to enjoy.

So the famous Winetasters’ Holiday Party returns on Wednesday, December 7th!  As we have done for many years, members and guests will get the opportunity to taste a dazzling array of carefully chosen, and perfectly-aged vinous treasures from the extensive Winetasters’ cellar accompanied by seasonal fare.

Highlights will include:   Scharzhofberger Egon Mueller Kabinet 2007, Ch Haut-Brion 1990, Ch d’Yquem 1996, Grange Bin 95 1993, Ch Montelena 1996, Taylor Quinta da Vargellas 1987  … and more (see below).  In addition we have. as a feature wine. a hundred and two year old Madeira:   Malvasia Reserva Reserva Velha – Barbeito 1920 (there is a surcharge for this and quantities are limited).  Matched with them will be a selection of seasonal meats, cheeses, breads, veggies, and sweets – enough to make a meal and to perfectly complement the wines.

Alas, Osgoode Hall is closed indefinitely for renovations.  However, we were fortunate enough to find a beautiful and convenient alternative for our favourite annual event – the Great Hall at St. Paul’s, Bloor Street East.   The Great Hall was the original church on the site, built in the 1840’s.  It’s a lovely example of gothic architecture that is also conveniently located a short walk from Bloor Station and close to ample parking. We hope that you will all find this location a welcome new site for our event.

In the spirit of the festive season Toronto Winetasters is extending an invitation to members of Toronto Vintners Club to attend at member prices.

Sold already?  Sign up here, or read on ….

How The Event Works

It’s a walk around party, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to socialize.  The wines are set out at six serving tables. Each will have a selection of wines at the start of the evening, both red and white as well as “others” (Armagnac, whisky, port, etc). When you arrive you will be given a packet including a list of the initial set of wines and where to find them.   And then, as the first wines run out, look for top-quality replacement surprises throughout the evening. These will be prominently identified at the various stations as the wines appear, so look out for the “pink” signs, or just listen for the buzz in the room.

Note that some of the wines mentioned will be in the initial flight and some will come out later. You may have to be patient for your favorite wine to appear! Note also that for some wines we have only a single bottle available.

Your packet includes an initial allocation of 70 tickets to buy tasting samples (1 0z each). Pricing of the samples starts at 3 tickets..  If you find yourself in need of additional tickets they can be purchased at the desk at the event for $1 each (cash or credit).

The Wines

We’ll be posting more info closer to the event, but you’ll have a chance to sample some rare finds, like:

  • Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett – Mosel – Egon Muller – 2007
  • Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru, Les Referts – Burgundy – Remoissenet Père & Fils 2007
  • Château d’Yquem – 1er Cru Sauternes – 1996
  • Château Haut Brion – Pessac-Leognan – 1990
  • Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Chapelle – Rhone – 1992
  • Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussia Cicala, Barolo DOCG, Italy – 2012
  • Cabernet Sauvignon Estate – Chateau Montelena – 1996
  • Penfolds Grange Bin 95, Australia – 1993
  • Alion – Alion (Vega Sicilia) – Ribera del Duero – 2012
  • Vintage Port, Quinta da Vargellas – Taylor’s 1987

See here for the current full list of wines.

Feature Wine – 1920 Malvasia Reserva Reserva Velha – Barbeito

Toronto Winetasters is known for its Feature Wine at the Holiday party: a very old Port or Madeira.  This year, to mark our return to Holiday Parties in style, we’ve dug deep into the cellar and are excited to pour a rare Malvasia Reserva Reserva Velha – Barbeito 1920.   This is a fantastic opportunity – it’s not every day you can taste a hundred (and two!) year-old wine!   Madeira is famed for its longevity and this will be a real treat.  For context: 1920 will be remembered as the year when the League of Nations was created, the 19th Amendment was passed in America giving women the right to vote, and a flight from London to South Africa took 45 days.  You will be tasting history!

The rare and valuable wine is in limited supply, so there is a supplementary charge and its first come first served!  You will reserve your sample when you register.

Santa

And, as you are all judged to be good, you’ll get a taste of a bubbly or two from Santa who will be appearing during the evening.

Admin

Register here.  You will receive a confirmation email.
Cancellations accepted up to December 1, 2022 – Cindy Taylor (416.458.3147). No reservations by phone, please.

As always with tastings, please ask your guests not to wear aftershave, cologne or perfume. We do get many first-timers at our event who may not be familiar with our etiquette. A scent-free environment ensures we all get to fully experience this exceptional assembly of wines.

And, of course, do not drink and drive.  The subway is nearby (Sherborne or Yonge St)

The 411:
Location
:            St. Paul’s Church 227 Bloor St E
Date:                    Wednesday, December 7
Registration:    6:00 PM
Tasting:              6:30 PM
Fees:                    Members of Toronto Winetasters or Toronto Vintners $150;  Non-Members $200.  HST Included
1920 Madeira   $50
More from 2019 archive:



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