2007 d'Arenberg Viognier The Last Ditch, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A tasty-wow wine with expressive notes of apricot, rose petal, peach and vanilla smoke. This wine was barrel-fermented in seasoned oak but it doesn’t come off as too oaky. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: medium curries, Asian dishes, Hawaiian pizza.  25064  14%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Rabl G. Grüner Veltliner, Kamptal, Niederösterreich, Austria: VC: G-force usually refers to the power of gravity but in this case it should mean the power of Grüner Veltliner. This blockbuster version from Rudolf Rabl was picked at the peak of maturity and aged in 500-litre new oak casks. My note: You either love this grape or you don’t. This is a great example of its type: classis green aromas of lime, pleasantly tart grapefruit and green apple. Vibrant attack and mouth-watering. Pair with: quiche, vegetarian dishes.  117390  14%  D  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Rosewood Estates Winery & Meadery Riesling, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Absolutely delightful Riesling! Lime, chives and green apples with some petrol notes (that’s a good thing). Wonderful refreshment. Perfect for movie night. Pair with: seafood.  112698  12%  MD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Ridgepoint Wines Riesling, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: VC: This juicy ’07 Riesling is pale straw in color with fairly intense, youthful aromas of candied citrus, yellow apple and pear. Slightly off-dry with a snappy acid core balancing the juicy fruit flavors, this medium-bodied wine is refreshing and quite lively, with a lingering finish. My note: Light and zippy with ripe peaches and pears. A wine not to analyze but to throw back and gulp down between laughs and good conversation Pair with: grilled prawns.  117994  12%  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 87/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Chardonnay Barrel Fermented, V.Q.A., Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada: VC: The excellence of the 2007 vintage shines through in this superb and oh-so-toasty Chardonnay. Fermented in French oak barrels (1/3 new), the wine is aged in barrel for a further seven months before bottling. Dry and full-bodied, it’s packed with apple, pear and citrus fruits that sing in perfect harmony with the spicy, warm oak notes. It finishes long. My note: Toasty rich with warm layers of ripe peach and pear with gorgeous hazelnut and vanilla smoke in the background. Pair with: seafood, lobster in butter, cream sauces.  268342  14%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2003 Château Du Chassagne-Montrachet En Pimont Chardonnay Michel Picard, Récolt., A.C., Burgundy, Chassagne-Montrachet, France: VC: This ’03 Chard has a very intense and appealing nose. Aromas suggest apple pie, pear, spice and Portuguese custard. On the palate, it’s a bit more restrained but in that very attractive way. This is a big wine with elegance and finesse. Full-bodied and long finishing. Enjoy it tonight. My note: An elegant, well-structured Chardonnay with ripe peach and pear, vanilla smoke and hazelnut. Opulent and satisfying. Perfect for outdoor dinner parties. Pair with: tuna steaks, grilled lobster tail, prawns. Drink: 2009-2016.  110213  14%  XD  750 mL  $49.95  Score: 92/100. June 6, 2009 Favorite White Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Francis Blanchet Sauvignon Blanc Pouilly Fumé, A.C., Loire, France: Incredibly vibrant and mouth-watering with zippy, spring-fresh notes of lime, green apples, lemongrass, chives and citrus peel. Makes an amazing aperitif or a great companion to many dishes. Pair with: fresh asparagus, shellfish, seafood, quiche.  12013  12%  XD  750 mL  $23.95  Score: 89/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Domaines Schlumberger Pinot Gris, A.C., Alsace, France: VC: Domaines Schlumberger is one of Alsace’s iconic producers. The domaine boasts the largest vineyard holdings in the region with 120 hectares. While bigger is not necessarily better in the wine industry, this estate proves that size and quality can coexist by producing award-winning, critically acclaimed wines at all price levels. This is an excellent Pinot Gris. My note: Zesty refreshment with green apple, boysenberry, chives and lemon peel. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering. Pair with: spicy noodles with lemongrass chicken.  21253  13%  D  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 89/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Domaine Du Château De Melin Chardonnay La Corvée Des Vignes, Paul Dumay, A.C., Burgundy, Puligny-Montrachet, France: VC: An exciting Chardonnay featuring aromas of custard tart, tangy apple, flint and citrus. Dry and ripe with a nice citrus undertone for balance. Medium full-bodied with a very long, very elegant, very enticing finish. Cellar it 2-4 years. My note: A mouth-watering Chardonnay with hauntingly deep aromas of ripe pear, hazelnut and light spices. Creamy and voluptuous without being heavy. Layers of flavor. Pair with: herbed chicken breast, crab cakes, spring salad, turkey, seafood, shellfish, grilled vegetables.  42093  12%  XD  750 mL  $59.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Lacheteau Les Loges Chenin Blanc Vouvray, A.C., Loire, France: VC: Forward lemon drop, peach, pear and candle wax aromas – aromas right out of the Chenin Blanc playbook – dominate this well-made wine. Just off-dry with a nice tropical/pear flavor at the fore. The wine is balanced by a good seam of acidity. Give it 3-5 years in a cellar, or enjoy it tonight. My note: Lovely light sipper with sunny-ripe apricot, white flowers and lanolin. Medium-bodied and delicious. A touch of fruit sweetness makes it very versatile with many dishes. Pair with: mildly spiced shrimp dishes, brie sprinkled on a spring salad, glazed ham, mild curries, salads, shellfish, grilled salmon.  525105  12%  MD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Best Value White Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 André Blanck Riesling, A.C., Alsace, Grand Cru, France: VC: In January 2008, the La Confrérie Saint-Etienne d’Alsace conferred their prestigious special seal for excellence on this wine. At an altitude of 200-300 meters above sea level and sitting atop mineral-laden soil, the terraced vineyards of Schlossberg are known for their magnificent Rieslings. 2007 was a tremendous vintage for Alsace, and it shows in this fragrant wine with its bright citrus fruit and flinty mineral aromas. Dry with concentrated fruit flavors and a long finish, it can be enjoyed now or cellared for up to a decade. My note: Bone-dry with zesty notes of limes and green apples. Pure and unoaked. Great refreshment and versatility with many dishes. Terrific back deck sipper. Pair with: seared scallops, asparagus, vegetarian dishes, quiche.  744995  14%  D  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Patrick Lesec Chardonnay, A.C., Burgundy, Meursault, France: VC: A pretty Meursault that displays all the virtues of this region’s Chardonnay. It features aromas of apple, pear compote, thistle and gentle smoke from the well-handled oak. Dry, crisp and nicely balanced, this is a full-bodied, long-finishing wine. My note: Stunningly opulent Chardonnay with a rich core of hazelnut and almond essence wrapped in ripe pear and green apple. Sophisticated, full-bodied and enduring on the finish. You have to love oak with this wine but it’s judiciously integrated with the fruit and weight of the wine. Pair with: lobster, soft cheeses, fine pâté, roast chicken, pork, cream sauces. Drink: 2009-2016.  84533  14%  XD  750 mL  $49.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Domaine Allimant-Laugner Muscat, A.C., Alsace, France: VC: The aromatic Muscat variety gets its name from the French word ‘musqué’, which captures the wine’s characteristic perfumed, musk-like aroma. It is also typical to find aromas and flavors of grapefruit peel, exotic fruit, and even a whiff of green table grapes. This expressive version from Alsace’s stupendous 2007 vintage is an excellent aperitif. My note: I love this pretty style of wine with its aromas of field flowers, orange peel and musk. I can’t think of a more interesting aperitif to serve at a reception or cocktail party. Medium-bodied. Pair with: salads, spicy Asian dishes.  930362  12%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Jermann Pinot Grigio, I.G.T., Venezia Giulia, Friuli, Italy: A benchmark for Pinot Grigio: ripe notes of white peach, lime, grapefruit with a muck-infused finish. Incredibly refreshing and mouth-watering. Great as an aperitif or with many dishes. Pair with: salads, vegetarian dishes.  117093  12%  D  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 91/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Astoria Pinot Grigio, I.G.T., delle Venezie, Veneto, Italy: VC: This modern and refreshing Pinot Grigio is a proven standout, winning Gold at the Concorso Internazionale Vino Pinot Grigio 2008. Fermented on its skins, the wine gains intensity with notable peach, hay and mineral aromas and flavors. A great summer white. My note: Light, refreshing, with grapefruit and lime notes. Mouth-watering. Pair with: grilled fish.  117226  12%  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 86/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Frescobaldi Castello Di Pomino Chardonnay Pinot Bianco, D.O.C., Pomino Bianco, Tuscany, Italy: VC: Year after year, this delicious white from the Frescobaldi family offers great value. A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco (a.k.a. Pinot Blanc), it’s made entirely from estate-grown fruit. Featuring aromas of pear, apple and peach. My note: A zesty, refreshing white with grapefruit and lime notes. No oak, lots of mouth-watering acidity, bone-dry. Medium-bodied. Pair with: grilled herbed chicken, mushroom risotto, barbecued pork chops with apple sauce.  65086  12%  XD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 87/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Ngatarawa Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Rev your lawnmowers! Fresh-cut grass, chives and lemon zest abound. Incredibly refreshing with a great mouth-watering attack. A lovely passionfruit-infused finish. Pair with: asparagus, salads.  96636  13%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Eberle Estate Chardonnay, Paso Robles, California, United States: VC: Lusciously ripe pears and peaches are balanced by a surprisingly refreshing (and welcomed) mouth-watering acidity. Terrific layers of flavors and full-bodied richness, yet balanced. Pair with: pasta in cream sauce, grilled vegetables, lobster in butter.  115964  14%  XD  750 mL  $25.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Mcmanis Family Viognier, California, United States: Stunningly aromatic and different from so many other white wines; you should try it! Aromas of rose petal, lychee, dried apricot, green apple, lime and lemon zest. Great for casual dinners. Pair with: mild curries, Asian dishes.  658112  14%  D  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Mer Soleil Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, California, Barrel Fermented, United States: Mom’s apple pie! Even if Mom didn’t bake, she’d love this wine: rich, comforting and warm with layers of buttery goodness. Vanilla smoke, green apples, ripe reach and honeysuckle. Full-bodied with a long finish. Pair with: lobster, soft cheeses, fine pâté, roast chicken, pork, cream sauces.  958975  14%  D  750 mL  $49.95  Score: 92/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review

2006 Bodega Catena Zapata Syrah, Mendoza, Argentina: VC: In the April 2009 issue of Decanter, Nicolás Catena was declared ‘Man of the Year’ for 2009, with the U.K. magazine crediting him with changing the direction of Argentina’s wine industry. This Syrah, sourced from the family’s own vineyards, is layered with black cherry, raspberry, spice and floral notes supported by dusty tannins and well-balanced acidity all leading to a lengthy finish. My note: Juicy, generous and lush with ripe aromas of dark berries and plums. Some pepper spice and fine polished tannins for a velvet mouth-feel. Can’t think of a better wine for barbecues and campfires. Pair with: pepper steak.  55483  14%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon, San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina: A consistent producer year after year. This Cabernet Sauvignon has blackberry and cassis and herbal aromas with cedar brush and a tarry finish. Full-bodied. Perfect for barbecues. Decant for 1-2 hours. Pair with: stew.  677567  14%  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Wyndham Estate Shiraz George Wyndham Founder's Estate, Southern Australia, Australia: A gorgeously rich and full-bodied red with aromas of blackberries, ground pepper, mint and fleshy plums. Loaded with supple layers of flavor and a smoky finish. Perfect for barbecues, dinner parties and graduation gifts. Pair with: rare steak, hamburgers, brisket. Drink: 2009-2012.  107912  15%  XD  750 mL  $23.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Glen Eldon Shiraz Dry Bore, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied and delicious Shiraz with black plums and cassis. Aged 18 months in French and American oak. Pair with: pepper steak.  54197  14%  XD  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 91/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2002 Peter Lehmann Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Shiraz Malbec The Mentor, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A towering wine of monumental flavors, depth and length. The wine was aged 18 months in new French oak barrels and is a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 10% Shiraz, and 8% Malbec. Fig, blackberry, blackcurrant, violets and dark spices offer a heady mix of aromas. Pair with: roast beef, rare steak, grilled meats, game. Drink: 2009-2015.  724336  14%  XD  750 mL  $42.95  Score: 94/100. June 6, 2009 Favorite Red Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Jim Barry Shiraz The Lodge Hill, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: This wine won a Gold Medal at the prestigious International Wine Challenge 2008 in London, England. Full-on Shiraz for when you’re not fooling around (and for when you are). Ring on the blackberry, black plum, pepper, and black raspberry. Cue the velvet tannins and now for the finish to bring it all to close. Thank you and good night. Pair with: stew.  998476  15%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 92/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Rosewood Estates Winery & Meadery Pinot Noir, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Ontario, Canada: Loaded with ripley sweet cherry fruit, zingy cranberry and dried herbs. Incredibly mouth-watering and appetizing. Superb effort from this producer. Pair with: grilled salmon.  112177  13%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 91/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Tabalí Syrah Reserva Especial, Limari Valley, Chile: VC: This is a Syrah-dominated proprietary blend. My note: Aromas of dark chocolate, coffee, blackberry and dark spices. Stunning depths of flavor. A great gift for birthdays and weddings. Pair with: meaty casseroles.  107540  14%  D  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon, Colchagua Valley, Chile: VC: Here’s an excellent Cab from one of Chile’s most reputable producers. Aged for 12 months in French oak, this well-structured, full-bodied Cab is a fine display of the magic that top Chilean winemakers are able to conjure with this grape. Delicious berry fruit flavors lead to intriguing notes of chocolate, tobacco, vanilla and spice box, and all of these elements are woven beautifully together. Winemaker Aurelio Montes is a hot commodity and this wine shows precisely why. My note: A wonderful Cabernet with classic notes of cassis and blackberry but also an extra oomph: there’s something in this wine that gives incredible depth of flavor and enjoyment. Give it a shot. Pair with: brisket.  322586  14%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Odfjell Armador Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley, Chile: Wow for the money! Incredibly deep and rich with lip-smacking delicious aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry and plum. A wine to whisk you away to a Latin American vacation. Pair with: shepherd's pie.  616078  14%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 In Situ Gran Carmenère Reserva Viña San Esteban, Aconcagua Valley, Chile: Coffee and black raspberries intermingle along with smoky vanilla and cedar in the background. Full-bodied. Pair with: rare steak.  93542  14%  D  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Antonin Rodet Pinot Noir Givry, A.C., Burgundy, France: VC: A young Pinot Noir designed for early enjoyment. Look for aromas of Bing cherry, raspberry and a hint of cinnamon spice. Dry and crisp with a pretty spicy fruit core. This is a medium-bodied, long-finishing wine. It will also improve for 2-4 years in a cellar. My note: I’m coming to trust this producer for my personal drinking pleasure. I love Pinot Noir, but don’t like Burgundy prices. This estate produces wonderfully flavorful wines at a terrific price. Redolent of tart cherries and dried herbs. Mouth-watering, medium-bodied and silky-seductive. Pair with: veal tenderloin or filet mignon, salmon, pate, roast chicken, turkey.  110395  13%  XD  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Château Haut-Bernat Merlot Blend, A.C., Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France: Winner of a Gold Medal at the Concours Géneral Agricole Paris 2007. Beautifully balanced with classic aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and cassis with a smoky blanket around it. Full-bodied, well-structured with a exceptionally long finish. Decant for 1-2 hours. Pair with: lamb shank. Drink: 2009-2016.  117622  14%  XD  750 mL  $34.95  Score: 91/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Château La Dauphine Merlot Cabernet Franc, A.C., Fronsac, Bordeaux, France: Juicy and generous, more New World style than Old World. Lovely blackberry and cassis richness with well-applied toasty oak. Only 5,000 cases were produced of this full-bodied wine which is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Pair with: grilled steak, stew, hamburgers.  121517  14%  XD  750 mL  $34.95  Score: 91/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Domaine D'ardhuy Aux Clous Pinot Noir, A.C., Burgundy, Savigny-Lés-Beaune 1er Cru, France: Lovely bouquet of cherry liqueur, violets and fresh-turned earth. Very full-bodied and rich for Burgundy but it’s terrific! Gorgeous velvety layers of seduction on the palate with a lovely long finish. Pair with: roast chicken. Drink: 2009-2016.  122515  14%  XD  750 mL  $39.95  Score: 91/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Château De Sérame Réserve Du Château Minervois, A.C., Midi, France: Winner of a Gold Medal at the Concours Géneral Agricole Paris 2008. Redolent of black cherries and raspberries with some enticing undernotes of tar, violets and smoky oak. Full-bodied and rich. Decant for 1-2 hours. Pair with: pepper steak. Drink: 2009-2014.  651125  14%  XD  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Domaine Tortochot Pinot Noir, A.C., Burgundy, Morey-Saint-Denis, France: VC: A dynamic ’06 red, from a terrific small grower, that proves that the vintage wasn’t just great for the whites. Filled with aromas of raspberry, black cherry, oak spice and savory herbs, this beautifully made, long-finishing Pinot Noir is an ideal choice for current consumption or mid-term cellaring (3-5 years). Its vibrant upfront fruit easily balances out the tannins to create a wine that will be pleasant tonight. My note: A wine of great purity and limpidity: I love this style of Burgundy! Opulent notes of tart cherries, black raspberry, cranberry and dried herbs. Pair with: grilled lamb chops. Drink: 2009-2018.  714634  13%  XD  750 mL  $44.95  Score: 93/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Tardieu-Laurent Syrah Blend Vieilles Vignes Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, A.C., Rhône, France: Dried herbs, black fruit, tar, hickory smoke and a length that doesn’t seem to end. This redefines full-bodied yet it’s beautifully balanced and structured which makes it an ideal candidate for long-term cellaring. Pair with: meaty casseroles. Drink: 2012-2025.  739482  16%  XD  750 mL  $84.95  Score: 97/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Georges Duboeuf Gamay Jean Descombes, A.C., Burgundy, Morgon, France: VC: Peppery black raspberry on the nose followed by a core of rich cherry liqueur on the palate. Full-bodied, smooth and delicious. Almost jammy with notes of violets in the background. Terrific Friday night quaffer. Pair with: turkey, hamburgers, pizza.  946186  13%  D  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Pio Cesare Barolo Nebbiolo, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Barolo is style you crave or don’t. Tarry notes rip across black fruit and smoke. It’s a wine that needs time but given that chance it is absolutely phenomenal, like this one. Pair with: stew.  736587  14%  XD  750 mL  $74.95  Score: 93/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 L.A. Cetto Petite Sirah, Guadalupe Valley, Baja California, Mexico: VC: Widely produced in California and usually blended with Zinfandel to add structure, Petite Sirah is making a name for itself as a stand-alone variety in Mexico; L.A. Cetto, in particular, has been extremely successful with the variety. Dense purple in color, it offers black pepper and tea notes leading to an impressive, well-rounded finish. My note: You can’t beat the value of this wine: you simply won’t find a better wine for the money. Juicy, round and ripe with aromas of black plums, black raspberry and vanilla smoke. Pair with: spicy black bean dishes, steak-and-cheese enchiladas.  983742  14%  XD  750 mL  $10.95  Score: 89/100. June 6, 2009 Best Value Red Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Divinica Touriga Nacional Tinta Roriz Touriga Franca Tinta Barroca Red, Sogevinus Fine Wines S.A., D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: VC: What inspired the name Divinica? Is it the ethereal purity of this wine’s fruit flavors or is it all those exclamations of “Holy Moly this is good”? We may never know. What we do know is that Sogevinus is another Port producer that has found new success crafting fabulous dry wines using classic Port varieties. This blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and Tinta Barroca is bursting with red berry flavors plus a hint of cocoa. My note: Lovely combination of mocha-coffee smoke and blackberry, black cherry richness. Full-bodied, velvety smooth. Pair with: barbecued sausages.  114421  14%  XD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 89/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2003 Quinta De Ventozelo Touriga Nacional Reserva Douro Tinto, D.O.C., Estate Btld., Portugal: Fascinating Old World flavors and complexity with tarry, leather notes and smoky black fruit. Love it! This is made from a blend of grapes traditionally used in Port. Pair with: roast beef, rare steak, grilled meats, game.  21329  14%  D  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2003 Thomas Fogarty Cabernet Sauvignon Vallerga Vineyard, Napa Valley, California, United States: A New World classic: monumental in its structure, plushy ripe in its depths. Lovely, lovely blackberry, cloves, tar, and cigar box. Bring it on. Pair with: lamb shank.  104232  14%  XD  750 mL  $44.95  Score: 93/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Beringer Vineyards Pinot Noir Third Century, Central Coast, California, United States: Love it! Juicy, generous cherries with field strawberries and spices. A summer’s day, ruby-glinting wine. Medium-bodied and ultra-smooth. Pair with: grilled salmon.  43786  14%  D  750 mL  $23.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Bonterra Syrah, Mendocino County, California, United States: Made From Organic Grapes, this organic wine is rich and deep with aromas of blackcurrant, violet, dusty black raspberries and smoke. Full-bodied, supple and smooth. Pair with: leg of lamb.  573709  13%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 90/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Foley Rancho Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills, California, United States: Juicy ripe cherries with gorgeous mouth-watering acidity. Supple, seductive, a real come-on wine. Such complexity and juicy upfront tastiness is enthralling. Medium- to full-bodied. Pair with: turkey, roast chicken.  60012  14%  XD  750 mL  $59.95  Score: 93/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review

2008 Domaine Houchart Rosé, A.C., Provence, Côtes De Provence, France: VC: Here’s a finely made, typically refreshing Provence-styled rosé for dining al fresco. The wine features aromas of apple-cherry, cranberry and strawberry. It’s dry and fruity with good acidity to bring it all into balance. My note: If the palest rosé is best, this one wins. Lovely summer sunshine in a glass plus wild strawberries and raspberries. Bone-dry. Pair with: warm chicken salad.  118653  13%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Best Value Rosé. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Château D'aqueria Syrah Rosé Jean Olivier, S.C.A., A.C., Rhône, Tavel, France: VC: This 2008 model marks the welcome return of a Vintages customer favorite. Dominated by blackberry drops, strawberry, floral and a hint of plum. Dry and quite vibrantly fruity with good weight and texture. There are some nice spice notes on the rather lengthy finish. My note: One of my absolute favorite roses year after year. Dive into it and lose yourself in its strawberry- cherry depths. Refreshing and lovely. Pair with: herb-crusted salmon, pan-fried sardines.  319368  14%  XD  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 91/100. June 6, 2009 Favorite Rosé. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Château La Tour De L'évêque Rosé, A.C., Côtes de Provence, France: VC: The redesigned bottle is the first thing you might notice about this perennial favorite. Next is the lovely orange-salmon color. Then comes the nose: it displays a subtle array of aromas, including red berry, cherry, smoke and garrigue. On the palate, this medium-bodied rosé makes a great first impression with pretty fruit, nice balance, very good weight and an elegant, medium-long finish. My note: Classic Provencal rose, with pale layers of alluring strawberry goodness. Bone dry. Pair with: chickpea curries, focaccia bread.  319392  14%  XD  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Château D'aqueria Syrah Rosé Jean Olivier, S.C.A., A.C., Rhône, Tavel, France: VC: This 2008 model marks the welcome return of a Vintages customer favorite. Dominated by blackberry drops, strawberry, floral and a hint of plum. Dry and quite vibrantly fruity with good weight and texture. There are some nice spice notes on the rather lengthy finish. My note: One of my absolute favorite roses year after year. Dive into it and lose yourself in its strawberry- cherry depths. Refreshing and lovely. Pair with: herb-crusted salmon, pan-fried sardines.  712000  14%  XD  375 mL  $13.95  Score: 91/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Luigi Giusti Le Rose Di Settembre,Lacrima Di Morro D’Alba, I.G.T., Marche, Italy: VC: An eye-catching, vibrant pink. The grape here is Lacrima di Morro d’Alba, a lovely indigenous variety — Lacrima means ‘tear’, although rosé fans will be all smiles savoring this easy-to-love, value-packed pink. Aromas of wild strawberry, pomegranate and tropical fruit enjoin the senses, replaying beautifully on the palate. This refreshing rosé is built for food. My note: Terrific intensity of flavor without weight. Cranberry and cherry intermingle with tart cherry. Delicious! Pair with: pasta salad, spiced salami, prosciutto.  119685  12%  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 88/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Kim Crawford Merlot Rosé Pansy!, Gisborne, North Island, New Zealand: VC: Made with Merlot, this medium-pink rosé shows subtle aromas of cherry, strawberry and melon on the nose. It’s dry, medium-bodied with a mouth-filling texture balanced by zesty acidity. Quite racy, it features redcurrant, raspberry and grapefruit flavors leading to a medium finish. My note: Love it! Vibrant strawberry-cherry aromas and zippy acidity keep this wine lively. Pair with: summer vegetable stir-fry.  650325  13%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 89/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Sexy Touriga Nacional Tempranillo Rosé Fita Preta, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal: VC: This flirtatious pink wine is as playfully seductive as the name implies. Strawberry and cherry aromas mingle with earthy notes and exotic floral accents. Juicy red berry flavors emerge on the palate, coupled with a delicate touch of spice. Comprised mainly of traditional Port grapes Touriga Nacional and Aragónez (aka Tempranillo), this rosé makes a delightfully satisfying sipper. My note: A lovely, light and simple rose to serve well-chilled. Fresh field strawberries at sunset. Pair with: Portuguese/Brazilian pastéis de bacalhau (cod in a light pastry), honey-barbecue sausages.  117077  14%  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 87/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Folie À Deux Merlot Syrah Gewürztraminer Rosé, California, United States: VC: The latest threesome from the Ménage á Trois series features Merlot, Syrah and some Gewürztraminer just to spice things up. Almost neon pink in color, the aromas suggest flowers, cherry, rhubarb and tropical fruit. Off-dry, approachable and easy to drink, this fruity, balanced wine has a slightly spicy, seductive finish. A great summer sipper with friends. My note: Light and happy, redolent of field strawberries and summer breeze. Pair with: grilled salmon.  120220  14%  MD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 87/100. June 6, 2009 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review