Michael Pinkus Wine Review - On the Road with the Grape Guy

Report from - Made in Italy (4 of 4) ... June 12, 2008

23 Jun 2008

Details: Category: On the Road with the Grape Guy

See previous write-ups: part 1 – part 2 – part 3

Once again the Italians took over a Toronto locale, and once again it was in the Yorkville district. This time it was Studio Snaidero at 33 Hazelton Avenue, and from what I gathered a kitchen decorating and appliance store: all from Italy, as were all the wines – 4 in total again.

So far, it has been the trend on these evenings to have one wine that is a true standout amongst all the others, but this time all four seemed to have something to offer wine lovers... (Read more)

To read about more interesting adventures thru the world of wine check out the On the Road With the Grape Guy blog.

Report from - Discover Australia "A World of Difference" ... June 11, 2008

23 Jun 2008

Details: Category: On the Road with the Grape Guy

I have to admit that some of these events I go into knowing full well that none of the wines I recommend will be available at your local liquor store (especially not the LCBO – maybe in other parts of the world but not here). That’s because the winery is agentless and even if they find representation at this show it’ll be awhile before you’ll see their wines on our shelves, or through consignment or private order. That also means that the 2005 Shiraz I recommend today will turn into the 2007 Shiraz when it’s finally available here in Ontario. I know, it’s incredibly frustrating – trust me, I feel your pain – I’m the one trying them and even if I wanna get them, I can’t … you’re just reading about how good it is – I actually know. Knowledge might be power, but power sucks when you can’t do anything with it. So until we get another system to bring booze into our province we’re stuck with the short end of the distribution stick.

Today 15 unrepresented wineries from Down Under invaded the Royal York’s Imperial Room in the hopes of scoring themselves an agent, and the opportunity to sell wines in Ontario. I know for a fact that a couple were successful now it’s up t the LCBO to say “yes”. Below is a list of my favourites with a few of their wines that turned me favourably in their direction – let’s hope they were able to turn an agent’s head in the process, so that you too can experience some of these stellar wines ... (Read more)

To read about more interesting adventures thru the world of wine check out the On the Road With the Grape Guy blog.