2008 St. Hallett Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: VC: Pale lemon in color, this blend offers a distinctly Aussie take on the classic white Bordeaux version. Aromas of gooseberry, peach and nectarine leap from the glass, along with wafts of lovely pineapple, lime, melon and kiwi fruit. The medium full-bodied palate replays the aromas nicely and a delightful arc of citrus zest emerges on the medium-long finish. My note: lemony goodness with ripe notes of lime and citrus zest. Good weight without being heavy. Nice lanolin richness. Pair with: lobster, lightly spiced prawns. 57687 12% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Chardonnay Estate Grown, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia: VC: This crowd-pleasing Australian Chard is robust but not overblown. It’s matured in 100% new oak, giving it a hefty portion of toasty, buttery character while it retains ample finesse. Look for green apple and tropical fruit flavors to complement the oaky notes. This wonder from down under will stand up to a feast. My note: A terrific Chardonnay for the money! Layers of buttery goodness, with ripe pears and peaches. Absolutely yum. Full-bodied with a warm finish. Pair with: flame-grilled herbed chicken, sea scallops fried in butter and garlic. 651331 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Niagara College Teaching Winery Chardonnay Barrel Fermented, V.Q.A., St. David's Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Buttery, round goodness with aromas of ripe peaches and pears. Oak is well integrated and the wine overall is very balanced. Full-bodied with creamy texture. 40634 13% D 750 mL $19.00 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Cave Spring Cellars Riesling C.S.V., V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: I love this style of Riesling: ripe lime, white peach and green apples with a whiff of lovely flint. Great minerality and depth with an incredibly long finish. One of Canada’s best. 566026 11% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Grandes Serres Les Portes Du Castelas Syrah Blanc, A.C., CÔTES DU RHÔNE, France: VC: Produced in much smaller quantities than its red counterpart, white Côtes du Rhone offers its own special pleasures. This charmer from Grandes Serres is soft and supple and culminates in a lively peachy finish. A great summer wine. My note: A full-bodied white without a lot of oak. Lovely ripe notes of white peach and melon. Refreshing and satisfying. 103697 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 La Chablisienne Chardonnay Chablis 1Er Cru, A.C., Burgundy, France: Clean, fresh and zippy with mouth-awakening notes of lime, green apples and lemongrass. The palate has wonderful weight and balance, followed by a lovely long finish. Drink: 2009-2012. 111666 13% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Hugues De Beauvignac Picpoul De Pinet , A.C., Midi, France: VC: Does the onset of summer make you daydream of refreshing white wines? If you are a fan of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris and have been wanting to expand your wine-tasting repertoire, Picpoul de Pinet may be the answer. This crisp, fresh, light-bodied wine features fresh citrus and apple flavors, and its racy acidity makes it truly ‘magnifique’ for sipping on the patio. My note: A joyously happy wine; bright sunshine on a summer’s day. Redolent of daisies, melon, tangerine zest and lime. Perfect aperitif or as an accompaniment to many dishes. 350124 12% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Beauvignac Viognier, A.C., Vins de Pays d'Oc, Midi, Sud de France, France: VC: Here’s a classy white that evokes the effortless sophistication of the South of France. With pretty aromas and flavors reminiscent of apricots, pear, peach and lime, this Viognier is pleasantly round and fruity. Incredibly versatile, it can stand on its own or be matched up with a variety of foods. My note: Stunning viognier with classic aromas of rose peal, lychee and tree fruits. A pleasant bitter finish with extraordinary body and length. Incredible value. Pair with: mild curries, Asian dishes, grilled cod, seared scallops, fine cheeses. 525295 12% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Lucien Albrecht Gewurztraminer Réserve, A.C., Alsace, France: VC: The golden rule at the Lucien Albrecht estate is “respect the grape.” Proprietor Jean Albrecht meticulously cares for the vines, hand harvesting and gently pressing the fruit for each of his excel-lent wines. This intense Gewurztraminer is a tribute to the artisanal spirit of this estate. The 2007 vintage was superb in Alsace and this full-bodied effort shows prominent aromas of lychee, rose petals, grapefruit, spice and honey notes. My note: A soft, subtle and balanced Gewurztraminer without overpowering notes of lychee and rose petal. Nice weight on the palate. Lovely effort. Pair with: grilled chicken, pork in a spicy jerk sauce. 926931 12% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Balthasar Ress Riesling Kabinett, Q.N.P., Schloss Reicharthausen, Rheingau, Germany: Love those German Rieslings! They pack a flavor punch without being heavy. Lime, lemongrass goodness with zesty, mouth-watering acidity. Terrific aperitif. 126284 10% M 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Michele Da Lisca Pinot Grigio, I.G.T., delle Venezie, Friuli, Italy: VC: Friuli’s take on P.G. is noted for its richness, and this pretty little number is no exception. Packed with melon, floral and pear characteristics, and featuring a pleasingly lengthy finish, this is a great summertime wine, and an extremely solid value. My note: A light and simple white with refreshing notes of white melon. Great aperitif. Pair with: summer salads antipasto. 117267 12% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Sileni Estates Sauvignon Blanc Cellar Selection, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Rev’ your lawn mowers! Here’s a grassy, herbal Sauvignon Blanc to quench your thirst for a thousand years. Aromas of gooseberry, grapefruit and lime. Zingy and zangy. 662882 12% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Kim Crawford Chardonnay Unoaked, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A tasty Chardonnay with ripe peaches and green apples and no oak. Crisp, clean and refreshing. Medium-bodied. 991950 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Clay Station Viognier, Lodi, California, United States: VC: A scrumptious summer sipper, this wine won a ‘Best of Lodi White’, a Double Gold Award and a score of 97 at the 2008 California State Fair Wine Competition. My note: What an incredibly pretty wine! Delicate aromas of white field flowers, white peach and lychee. Lovely aperitif. 25411 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Beringer Vineyards Chardonnay Third Century, Central Coast, California, United States: Nicely balanced and soft Chardonnay, very well done. Subtle notes of ripe peaches and apples with judicious use of oak: Hazelnuts and dried figs. 47696 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Firesteed Pinot Gris, Oregon, United States: Refreshing and crisp with aromas of white and green melon, grapefruit, limes and green apples. Tangy and vibrant. Great aperitif. 568071 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Grand Reserve, Monterey/Santa Barbara Counties, California, Jackson Estates Grown, United States: This wine was aged 8 months in French and American oak, and underwent malolactic fermentation. Richly ripe pears, peaches and pineapples with a lovely weave of hickory smoke throughout. Full-bodied and voluptuous. 59576 14% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 RavensWood Chardonnay Vintners Blend, California, United States: VC: This easy-drinking Chardonnay is a fleshy, round wine bursting with mango, citrus, baking spices and well-balanced toasty oak flavors. A quaffable crowd-pleaser, it’s extremely food-friendly and offers great value. Just the thing to add flavor to your next BBQ party. My note: Terrific value for this warm, full-bodied Chardonnay with ripe notes of peach and pear. Round and lovely. Pair with: roasted lemon chicken, avocado salad with orange slices. 683847 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. July 4, 2009
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2004 X & Y Cabernet Merlot, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: VC: X&Y celebrates what the younger generation loves about the region: the culture, art, surf and great wineries. This approachable fruit-driven wine is a soft, delectable and lip-smacking red to enjoy. My note: Terrific quaffable with tasty notes of ripe plush plums and black raspberries. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with: Aussie “sausage sizzlers”, barbecued sausages and onions served on white bread with tomato sauce. 107995 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. July 4, 2009
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2005 Krinklewood Shiraz Wild Red, Broke Fordwich, New South Wales, Australia: Vibrant and lip-smacking delicious, yum! Aromas of purple plums, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries. The grapes were grown in a biodynamic vineyard. 108209 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2005 Chateau Reynella Shiraz Basket Pressed, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Juicy, tasty with mouth-wateringly ripe black fruit and smoke. Chewy tannins give this wine a good grip. Decant for 1-2 hours. A licorice-infused finish. 510628 14% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Chardonnay, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Estate Btld., Canada: Succulent with layers of flavor. Aromas of ripe peach, pear, green apples, butter and freshly baked bread. Terrific balance Pair with: lobster in butter, corn dishes. Drink: 2009-2011. 726604 13% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Emiliana Carmenère, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Terrific intensity of flavor, with aromas of mocha, black plums and black cherries. Full-bodied and supple. This organic wine contains only 20 mg/L of free sulphur. 56887 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Château Du Cray Pinot, A.C., MERCUREY, Burgundy, Estate Btld., France: VC: This Pinot shows fine varietal character, featuring red fruits with hints of licorice and a smoky minerality. It’s an exceptional value for red Burgundy. The Côte Chalonnaise (Région de Mercurey) offers extraordinary value when it comes to Burgundy. This wine is redolent of ripe cherries and strawberries. Mouth-watering and smooth with layers of satin texture. A long finish. Pair with: grilled salmon, roast leg of lamb, mature cheeses. 110361 13% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Château De La Tuilerie Syrah Grenache, A.C., Costières de Nîmes, Rhône, France: VC: Surrounding the ancient city of Nîmes, the Costières de Nîmes is the most southerly appellation of the Rhône and borders upon the Languedoc region. This Mediterranean-influenced blend of Syrah and Grenache has good depth of black and red fruit flavors as well as peppery spice, earth and garrigue notes. My note: Big black, brooding aromas of black plums, blackcurrants, dark spices and a touch of pepper. Full-bodied with a good grip. Decant for 1-2 hours. Excellent value. Pair with: lamb tagine with fennel. 126128 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Château De Jau Syrah Mourvèdre, A.C., Côtes du Roussillon-Villages, Midi, France: VC: If you’re looking for an elegant and affordable wine full of French character, allow us to introduce you to this stunner from Côtes du Roussillon-Villages. This balanced, bright and fruity blend of Syrah and Mourvèdre would be a great choice for a ‘French Bistro’ night. My note: A juicy, berry-ripe red with full-bodied layers of red fruit and a whiff of smoke. Good grip on the palate. Decant for 1-2 hours. Perfect for potlucks and casual get-togethers. Pair with: French breads, cheeses, sausages. 955070 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 4, 2009
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2005 Le Tobele Amarone Della Valpolicella, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: VC: Amarone is on every wine lover’s lips these days. This ruby/garnet-colored beauty is sure to keep the romance kindled, with its seductive aromas of chocolate-covered cherries, baking spices, toffee, mocha and leather. Full-bodied, with silky tannins. There’s a suggestion of sweetness on a palate that abounds with ripe cherry, figs and Black Forest cake, all lingering wonder-fully on the long, persistent finish. My note: Rich mocha notes mingle with black plums. Deeply concentrated yet not over-the-top extracted. Nice balance with plush layers of flavors and a long finish. Pair with: slow-roasted lamb, beef, fine aged cheeses. 106898 15% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Villa Giada Suri Barbera Rosso D'asti, D.O.C., Piedmont, Italy: VC: Ruby red in color and full of the fine intensity typical of Barbera, this wine presents aromas of floral, sour cherry and leather. It’s full-bodied and fruity on the palate, with a nice finish. High quality at a bargain price. My note: A terrific wine for the money. Meaty and full-bodied with blackberries and plums. 117168 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Quota 29 Primitivo, I.G.T., Salento, Puglia, Italy: VC: Here’s a mmm-mmm-good, crowd-pleasing Primitivo that’s perfect for a weekend barbecue party. Look for vibrant ripe strawberry, blackberry, licorice, spices and savory herbs on the nose and palate. It’s plush and juicy, but with enough acidity and mild tannins providing support to make this a winner. My note: Very purple plum with full-bodied tastiness. Good balance on the gulpable, knock-it-back wine. Pair with: sausages, steaks, chops. 123380 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Toscolo Chianti Classico Sangiovese, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: VC: Consistently a great value from Tuscany, this Chianti Classico shows pretty aromas of cedar, toast, crushed red berries and floral notes. Rich and mouth-filling with fine tannins and refreshing acidity, this is a wine to enjoy over the next three. My note: Consistent and all-round solid producer of a delicious and pleasing wine. Full-bodied, supple with dark plums and berries. Very satisfying Pair with: osso bucco, Tuscan-style spareribs. 19521 12% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 4, 2009
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2005 Batasiolo Nebbiolo Barbaresco, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: I like this! Juicy, mouth-watering and pleasantly acidic, this wine has lovely tart cherries and plums. Smokey and satisfyingly long. Full-bodied and supple. 37051 14% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2007 Corte Giara Ripasso Valpolicella, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: VC: A real knockout, this ready-to-drink Ripasso is in-tensely flavored with layers of black cherries, plum, earth and toast. Dry and medium-bodied, it’s a food-friendly tangy red that’s delicious. A shining example of the extremely popular Ripasso style, at a very attractive price. My note: Good value for the money. Peasant aromas of dark red berries and plums. Mouth-watering acidity and nice balance. Full-bodied. Pair with: spicy Italian sausages. 83964 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Fattoria La Ripa Chianti Classico Riserva, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: A juicy, mouth-watering red with aromas of tart cherries, freshly-turned earth, dried tobacco leaves. Terrific balance and intensity. 984401 14% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. July 4, 2009
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2004 Lan Tempranillo Blend Reserva, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Incredible balance, elegance and flavor interest. Aromas of blackberry, cherry, plum and anise with a violet-infused finish. Some cigar box and leather thrown in for good measure. A lovely wine. 42929 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2005 Ontañón Tempranillo Garnacha Crianza, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: VC: Try this Spanish beauty. My note: Grilled meat aromas and savory notes of bacon and blackberries. Full-bodied and rich with mocha and vanilla-spice. Some leather and cigar box give this wine an intriguingly mature aroma. Pair with: chorizo sausage empanadas, tapas dishes. 976910 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2005 Z-52 Zinfandel Agnes' Vineyard Old Vines, Lodi, California, United States: VC: Z-52 specializes exclusively in vineyard- designated Zinfandel. My note: Sweetly and fleshy ripe blueberries, brambleberries, raisins and black raspberries in a jammy wonder. Chewy tannins and meaty texture. 104174 14% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Le Baron Ranch Zinfandel Three Sisters, Sonoma County, California, United States: VC: Deep ruby with purple high-lights, this Zin bursts out of the glass with exuberant aromas of raspberry jam, ripe black plum, blueberry, smoke and vanilla. It’s dry, with a medium full-body, ripe tannins and just enough acidity to balance the voluptuous black fruit flavors. Warm, soft and creamy with a touch of smoke on the very long finish. My note: Juicy good blueberry, blackberry and brambleberry notes. Absolutely delicious and full-bodied with polished tannins for a smooth texture. Pair with: barbecued back ribs smothered in sauce. 119966 14% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2006 Maysara Jamsheed Pinot Noir, McMinnville, Oregon, United States: Lovely aromas of rose petals and violets and underneath fresh-turned earth and wild mushrooms. Silky texture with a lovely cherry-infused finish. 127035 14% D 750 mL $36.95 Score: 91/100. July 4, 2009
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2005 Rodney Strong Wine Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander's Crown Single Vineyard, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: VC: Alexander’s Crown was the first vineyard-designated Cabernet from Sonoma County and has been producing stunning wines since its first vintage in 1974. The cooler mesoclimate and gravelly loam soils of this vineyard give this wine its distinct flavor profile. Winemaker Rick Sayre aged the 2005 for twenty months in mostly French oak giving it a subtle toasty spice, chocolate and cigar box characteristics as well as vibrant blackberry, juicy cassis and mint notes. Cellar for 3-6 years or decant. My note: Rich and concentrated with deep aromas of black plums, black raspberries, dark spices and hickory smoke. Full-bodied goodness. Pair with: filet mignon grilled rare. 329961 14% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 91/100. July 4, 2009
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2005 Sequel Syrah, Columbia Valley, Washington State, United States: Absolutely delicious! Mouth-wateringly juicy fruit with long layers of flavor on the palate. Aromas of dark plums and blackberries mingle with dark spices. Polished tannins keep the texture smooth. Winemaker is John Duval, formerly with Penfold’s Grange in Australia. Keep up the great work John! Drink: 2009-2016. 64428 15% D 750 mL $75.00 Score: 92/100. July 4, 2009
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2004 Red Feather Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Washington State, United States: VC: Randy Dunn of Dunn Vineyards is the winemaker for Feather. My note: Dark, full-bodied aromas of blackcurrant, cassis, black plum and smoky oak. 64766 14% D 750 mL $75.00 Score: 91/100. July 4, 2009
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2004 Pedestal Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington State, United States: Big bottle, big man. Consulting winemaker is Bordeaux’s Michel Rolland. Aromas of full-throttle purple plum and blackberry and dark chocolate. 64782 15% D 750 mL $75.00 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Flat Rock Cellars Pinot Noir Rosé, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: VC: Are you a rosé lover who adores seafood? Take heart, you’re not alone; and you’re in luck with this elegant, refreshing pink made from Pinot. Fresh fruit flavors, ample body and crisp acidity. My note: An angelically light and carefree rose with superb aromas of ripe field strawberries. Summer sunshine in a bottle: I dare you to drink this and not smile. Light-bodied but flavor-packed. The ultimate aperitif. Pair with: grilled calamari, smoked salmon, crab salad. 39974 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Perrin Grenache Mourvèdre Cinsault Rosé, A.C., Tavel, Rhône, France: VC: This summertime favorite sports a particularly intense pink hue. Fresh aromas of maraschino cherry, blood oranges and melon greet the nose. Dry and round textured with a medium-full body, this mouth-filling rosé has delicious red fruit flavors balanced by medium acidity and leading to a lengthy finish. Serve this tasty number on a sunny summer evening. My note: One of my all-time favorite producers of rose. If I ever work for a winery, it’ll be this one. Drown yourself in summer sunshine as you lie in a field of redolent of ripe strawberries. Full-bodied, bone-dry. Pair with: herbed chicken, grilled salmon, artichoke salad. 680801 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Bandol Mourvèdre Grenache Cinsaut Rosé La Bastide Blanche, A.C., Provence, France: VC: Pale salmon pink in color, this rosé from the south of France is a blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsaut. Dominated by subtle but sweet strawberry aromas, the nose also shows hints of rhubarb, redcurrant and light floral notes. It’s dry with good weight, warmth and plenty of strawberry and tangy citrus fruit flavors leading to a spicy medium-long finish. My note: The color will fool you because the intensity of flavor in this rose is incredible! Lovely ripe raspberries and strawberries but it’s not heavy. Absolutely adore the pleasantly bitter finish that makes it so darn refreshing. Pair with: grilled sardines with rosemary. 71084 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 93/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Planeta Rosé Syrah Rosé, I.G.T., Sicily, Italy: What an amazing rose with mouth-watering aromas of strawberry, cranberry, rose petal. Gorgeous layers of flavor with a juicy core of pure pleasure. 111856 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Slowine Pinotage Pinot Noir Shiraz Rosé, W.O., Elgin, South Africa: A simple and tasty rose with notes of strawberries. Bone-dry and refreshing. A blend of 58% Pinotage, 28% Pinot Noir and 14% Shiraz. 120170 13% D 750 mL $11.95 Score: 86/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Muga Tempranillo Grenache Viura Rosado, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: This is blended rosé from Tempranillo and Grenache (red) and Viura (white) grapes. Very mouth-watering with aromas of tart strawberries and raspberries. Bone-dry. 603795 13% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 86/100. July 4, 2009
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2008 Loredona Syrah Rosé, California, United States: VC: This 100% Syrah rosé is filled to overflowing with aromas of pomegranate, raspberry, cranberry and citrus. Just barely off-dry, this wine is balanced by its graceful acidity. A wine to enjoy, well-chilled. My note: Full-bodied rose with rich aromas of cranberry and raspberry. Smooth, bone-dry and low tannin. Lovely and refreshing. Pair with: soft cheeses, summer salads, grilled vegetables, cold chicken sandwiches. 120246 12% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 87/100. July 4, 2009
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