I tried this Ruffino Riserva Ducale Chianti Classico Riserva 2005 last night – a gift from a friend. It was a nice, good chaniti. Here’s how the LCBO describes it:

Bright ruby colour; dried cherry fruit, cinnamon spice, leather and floral notes on the nose; dry, medium to full bodied, dried cherry, earthy/mushroom and plum flavours with firm, chalky tannins and a a long spicy finish.

Over the weekend I got a chance to sample some of the wine I’ve been collecting over the winter months. This bottle was $22 at the LCBO. Scored a 92 by Wine & Spirits, the LCBO goes further to describe the Pio Cesare Barbera d’Alba 2006:

This is substantial barbera, boasting ripe, rich fruit and luxurious new oak flavors. It gains complexity with air, the oak receding into a supportive role. Elegantly composed and vinous, this lasts with flavors of cherries and plums. Decant a bottle for a steak tagliata.

Definitely let it air a bit before drinking and you’ll find it a nice enjoyable wine with a strong dinner. I had it with a nice hearty pasta dish and the wine stood up to the strong flavours of olives and tomatoes in the dish.

Here are some other comments from wine.com:

Pio’s Barbera is a wine quite different from many other Barbera. This is because the Barbera grapes are grown alongside the Nebbiolo grapes. This, combined with the extensive barrel ageing, results in a wine with the strength and wild energy of a Barbera, but the refined elegance of Barolo. This is a unique Barbera—full and brave, yet soft and supple.

Our Barbera has an intense ruby color with garnet reflections. The bouquet is distinguished and vital, with fresh, ripe fruit. The palate is clear and definite, with hints of ripe pulpy fruit, cherry, and notes of chocolate, frame with a long and pleasant finish.

I tried this wine over the weekend and it’s very good:

CHÂTEAU DE L’ESTANG 2004
VINTAGES 92809
750 mL bottle

Price: $ 17.95
Wine, Red Wine, 13.7% Alcohol/Vol.

Sugar Content : XD

Made in: Bordeaux, France
By: Chateau De Roquefort

Release Date: Nov 8, 2008

Tasting Note
A close neighbour to the famous St. Émilion commune, Côtes de Castaillon is an appellation on the rise. This fine wine featuring the aromatic signatures of traditional Bordeaux. Blackcurrant, bell pepper, blueberry, toast and game dominate. Dry with rich mid-palate. Medium-bodied with a long, lush finish. A natural choice for game birds, bison steak or roast leg of lamb. (VINTAGES panel, June 2008)