2007 Cave Spring Cellars Riesling Res, V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Canada: VC: Evocative of the limestone clay soil its 20-year-old vines are grown in, this estate Riesling commands global respect. Lovely peach, pink grapefruit, floral, and mineral aromas dominate with a hint of pretty petrol. It’s dry, medium-bodied with juicy fruit flavours and a very long, crisp finish. My note: A wine that trumpets its aromas from the glass! Limes, green apples and white flowers, wow. Light- to medium-bodied. Immeninently gulpable. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roasted turkey, spiced shrimp dishes, sautéed white fish. 286377 11% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Riesling Chardonnay Gewurztraminer Sibling Rivalry, V.Q.A., Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A lovely wine with lifted notes of ripe melon, field flowers and green apples. Zippy and refreshing with lots of pleasurable flavors. Pair with: roast chicken, pasta in cream sauce, lobster. 4001353 14% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Chardonnay, Okanagan Valley, Canada, B.C.: 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, roast chicken. Drink: 2009-2011. 14% D 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Daniel Lenko Viognier, Niagara, Canada, Ontario: Made from 15-year-old vines, this is an intensely aromatic white with notes of rose petals, lychee, papaya, flint and slate. Aged seven months on the lees added richness to this medium full-bodied wine. A lovely finish. Available from winerydirect.com. Pair with: mild to medium curries, salmon, salads, pork, chicken. Drink: 2009-2011. 14% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Daniel Lenko Riesling, Niagara, Canada, Ontario: Made from 25-year-old vines, this is a delicious, mouth-watering white with zippy notes of green melon, grapefruit and lime. Light and refreshing. Only 350 cases made. Available from winerydirect.com Pair with: shellfish, salads, vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2009-2011. 11% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Alsace Willm Riesling Reserve, A.C., Alsace, France: VC: This is a classic dry Alsatian Riesling that offers fresh fruit aromas of lime juice with peach and mineral notes. It’s medium-bodied with a racy and crisp/fruity palate and a very long finish. My note: A bone-dry, austere riesling that's high on the refreshment scale with notes of white grapefruit and lime. Zesty, come-alive white that will partner with many dishes. Like a dip in the cool ocean on a summer day. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: grilled tuna steaks, Alsatian onion tart, pork sausage. 11452 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. April 21, 2009
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2008 Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc Delegat's, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: VC: This perennial classic New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has exuberant aromas of gooseberry, grass, cream of asparagus, and melon. It’s intense and lively with crisp acidity and a lingering, slightly minerally finish. My note: Pure grassy goodness and refreshment! Vibrant notes of lemongrass, gives, limes and green apples. All the vigrorous, exuberant energy of spring. Closed with a screwcap. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: shellfish like steamed clams, pan-fried scallops, mussels, oysters. 316570 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Oyster Bay Chardonnay Marlborough, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: VC: This elegant Chardonnay shows varietal intensity and the distinct qualities of the Marlborough region with aromas and flavors of green apple, ripe peach, vanilla, light toasty oak and a note of tropical fruit. A dry, soft and creamy crowd-pleaser with charming balance brought by a touch of acidity and toast. My note: A pleasant and dependable Chardonnay with green apple notes resting on a buttery layer of richness from oak aging. Maintains the refreshing acidity from the cool climate to enable it to pair well with food. Closed with a screwcap. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roasted halibut or black cod, cheese tortellini. 326728 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. April 21, 2009
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2008 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: VC: Vintage after vintage, the world-renowned Kim Crawford displays his winemaking prowess with Sauvignon Blanc. This version exhibits aromas such as gooseberry, asparagus, nettle, tomato leaf and citrus. My note: One of my favorite Sauvignon Blanc producers from New Zealand. This is a lovely white with herbal and green fuit aromas. Lively and vivacious. Closed with a screwcap, but opens with a smile. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: monkfish with tomato and fresh herbs, steamed mussels. 35386 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 21, 2009
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2008 Coopers Creek Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: VC: With its lively aromas of citrus, fresh herbs, gooseberry and lime, this is a fine example of how New Zealand winemakers have become masters of Sauvignon Blanc. It is racy, refreshing and perfectly balanced. My note: A zippy, refreshing white with notes of dill, grass, lime, green apples and chives. Medium-bodied, no oak. Terrific for date night with your partner. Closed with a screwcap. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: Thai green mango salad, lemony roast quail. 957407 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2008 Obikwa Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa: VC: Pale straw colour; lightly tropical aromas of green pineapple, guava and pear fruit with pleasant herbal notes; light- to medium-bodied with crisp, green apple flavors. My note: A grassy-good Sauvignon Blanc with wake-up aromas of gooseberry, asparagus, chives, limes and green apples. Zippy and refreshing. Perfect as an aperitif. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: light poultry dishes, seafood, salads. 527465 12% D 750 mL $8.95 Score: 87/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Chardonnay Toasted Head, California, United States: VC: The name Toasted Head refers to the barrels used to age this wine. Usually, only the barrel walls are charred but, in this case, the heads are toasted too. The resulting wine is filled with aromas of smoky apple-cinnamon, pear, vanilla and toasty oak. Full-bodied with a medium-long finish. My note: A rich, buttery, round Chardonnay with terrific persistence of flavors on the palate. Aromas of green apples, pear and baked bread. Full-bodied and luscious. A very socialable wine. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roast pork with apples, a Wellington made with smoked salmon. 594341 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay Russian River Ranches, Russian River Valley, United States: VC: Sonoma-Cutrer has been growing grapes since 1973. It was the quality of their Chardonnay that was the impetus for opening a state-of-the-art winery in 1981. Rated the number one selling Chardonnay in American restaurants in 2004, this white, not surprisingly, is Sonoma-Cutrer’s flagship wine. This Chard serves up flavours of tropical fruit, roasted hazelnut, citrus, florals, butter and hints of mineral. My note: A warm and full-bodied Chardonnay, with focused notes of ripe green apples, lime, pear and vanilla spice. The vines were grown in a variety of soils along the Sonoma Coast. Soothes both the palate and the soul. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: baked sea bass, halibut au beurre blanc, young Gouda. 608653 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Caymus Sauvignon Blanc Semillon Chardonnay Viognier Muscat Canelli. Conundrum Napa Valley, California, United States: VC:This fascinating off-dry wonder brilliantly blends together Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Viognier and Muscat Canelli. The amazing thing about this wine is that on the nose you can get a sense of every grape used. Aromas and flavors of peach, jasmine, melons, pears, vanilla, grass and more intertwine in this multi-layered and well-balanced white. My note: Lovely and wild and exotic notes of lychees, rose petal, orange zest and honeysuckle blossoms. What a wine! Drink it as a fascinating aperitif or pair it with so many dishes. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: butter chicken, chana masala. 694653 14% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 92/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Wolf Blass Cabernet Sauvignon Premium Selection, South Australia, Australia: VC: Since he arrived on the international wine scene in the 1970s, Wolf Blass has taken the world by storm by consistently producing high-quality wines such as this full-bodied Cab. Its aromas and flavors recall blackcurrant, eucalyptus and dark chocolate. My note: A rich, full-bodied red with deep aromas of ripe blackberries, cassis and blackberry. Gorgeous concentration of fruit flavor and depth. Manly yes, but I like it too! This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: rare prime rib, a grilled Angus steak. 321927 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Mitolo Shiraz Jester, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: VC: Mitolo continues to garner international accolades under the talented hands of winemaker Ben Glaetzer and owner Frank Mitolo. This full-bodied, juicy Shiraz delivers upfront and approachable aromas of chocolate-covered dark cherries, anise, allspice, coffee and hints of oak. My note: Rip-snorting good wine with blackberries, black cherry liqueur and vanilla smoke. A warm-hearted with a solid and pleasurable core of pure fruit. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: steak, stew, shepherd's pie, prime rib. 659607 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Kilikanoon Shiraz Killermans Run, South Australia, Australia: VC: Look no further for your favourite Aussie red! By sourcing grapes from prime South Australian vineyards and ageing the wine for up to two years in small French and American oak barrels, Kilikanoon crafts a fruit-driven Shiraz red that is densely flavored with smoky black fruit, spices and toasted oak. My note: A robust, honkin' big Shiraz with black cherry liqueur and cassis aromas. Undernotes of brambleberry, cedar and smoke. Perfect for weekend get-togethers. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roasted or grilled red meat. 925453 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 d'Arenberg Shiraz Grenache D'arry's Orig, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: VC: Equal parts Shiraz and Grenache, this bold blend displays aromas and flavors of blackberry, black cherry, roasted herbs and licorice with background notes of coffee and caramel. This mouth-filling wine lands softly on the palate, and is followed by a long, spicy and smooth finish. My note: A full-on, honkin' big red from this terrific producer! Bring on the black cherries, raspberry liqueur and smoky oak. Perfect for potlucks. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: gourmet burgers, lamb couscous, matured cheeses. 942904 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Merlot Cabernet Franc Cabernet Sauvignon Sibling Rivalry, V.Q.A., Niagara, Ontario, Canada: VC: Deep red violet colour; aromas and flavors of strawberry jam, with hints of leather, blueberry and plum; dry, full bodied and softly textured. My note: A smooth gulpable wine loaded with lots of dark plums and berries. Full-bodied and flavorful but not heavy. Perfect for casual get-togethers. Pair with: venison, steak, hamburgers. 4001354 14% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2005 Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Baco Noir Reserve, V.Q.A., Ontario, Canada: VC: It is still rare in Ontario for a winery to be closely identified with one grape variety; Henry of Pelham and Baco Noir is one such hugely successful association. Years ago, the Speck brothers and winemaker Ron Giesbrecht recognized the potential of this hybrid grape and made it their signature wine. Bursting with wild black fruit, ripe plum, gamey and spicy aromas and flavors that are well complemented by fresh acidity and moderate tannins. Enjoyable now, it will also reward 3-5 years in a cellar. My note: This style of this wine has really evolved over the past few years. No longer a wild, brambly red, it now displays enticing notes of concentrated black cherries, blackberries and purple plums. Full-bodied richness with a warm finish. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: venison stew, rustic pasta with spicy heirloom tomato sauce. Drink: 2009-2013. 461699 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Okanagan Valley, Canada, B.C.: Beautifully structured with alluring aromas of black current, cassis, mocha and black cherries. Terrific balance with a lovely, long finish. One of B.C.'s best producers. Pair with: steak, hamburgers, roast beef, lamb. Drink: 2009-2016. 14% D 750 mL $38.00 Score: 92/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Meritage, Okanagan Valley, Canada, B.C.: Destined to become a cult classic. This wine offers lovely aromas of cassis, black plum, blackberries and coffeed oak. Monumental structure with plush depths of flavor. A bottle that makes a weeknight a celebration. Pair with: filet mignon, Beef Wellington, grilled chicken or pork. Drink: 2009-2018. 14% D 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Daniel Lenko Merlot Old Vines, Niagara, Canada, Ontario: Purple plum intensity on the nose with terrific depth and concentration. Enticing aromas of wild berry and cedar brush. Not heavy; excellent balance. Available from winerydirect.com. Pair with: steak, hamburgers, stew, spice-rubbed chicken, grilled pork. Drink: 2009-2012. 13% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Caliterra Carmenere Tributo, Chile: A lovely, richly plummy wine that aged 14 months in French and American oak. Smoky vanilla notes enwrap a wonderfully persistent core of black fruit on the palate. Notes of black cherry and tobacco leaves. Silky, seductive texture in this full-bodied red. Pair with: roast beef, leg of lamb, stew. 14% D 750 mL $19.00 Score: 92/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Miguel Torres Cabernet Sauvignon Curico S. Digna, Chile: VC: The Torres family has revolutionized the production of fine wine not just in Spain, but in Chile too. This Cab has plum purée, roasted bell pepper, smoke, blackcurrant and toasty oak aromas. Fruit dominates on the well-balanced palate, with ripe tannins showing on the medium-long finish. My note: An incredible value for this full-bodied red with notes of cedar, black fruit and smoke. Good balance and rewarding flavors. Perfect as a nightcap at the end of a busy day. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: steak sandwich, parillada (an assortment of grilled meats). 177451 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Caliterra Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile: VC: Ruby red colour; ripe berry aroma; medium-bodied with berry fruit flavors and earthy notes; well-balanced with a medium finish. My note: Sweetly ripe Damson plums on the nose followed by blackberries and black cherries. A velvetly-smooth texture with warm layers of fruit and dark spices. A smoky, satisfying finish. Pair with: grilled meats, roasts, hard cheeses. 257329 14% D 750 mL $12.00 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Concha Y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon Marques, Puente Alto, Chile: VC: Here’s a robust Cab that offers solid value. This powerhouse is packed with red currant, cassis, chocolate, earth, sage, smoke and cedar aromas and flavors. It’s dry, with a plush mouth-filling texture leading to ripe tannins on the lingering finish. My note: Deep and rich with comforting notes of dark chocolate, black plum and blackberry. Warm and succulent with a velvet texture and full-bodied goodness. Not for the timid. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: duck breast, lamb chops, roast beef. 337238 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Caliterra Shiraz Reserva, Chile: Peppery black raspberries on the nose that open up into a lovely, plush red with dark spices and plums. Warm and inviting. What are you waiting for? Pair with: grilled steak or chicken, shepherd's pie. 74153 14% D 750 mL $11.95 Score: 87/100. April 21, 2009
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2005 Chateau Hauchat Merlot Vignobles Jean-Bernard Saby & Fils, Fronsac, France: VC: What a lovely Fronsac for drinking now or for mid-term cellaring, and what a great price. It's rare to find a Bordeaux that's not a blend, but this 100% merlot hits all the points through the palate very effectively. The well-defined flavors are concentrated and restrained, and they're well balanced by a seam of acidity that adds a refreshing dimension to the texture. The tannins are supple and manageable. It's drinking now and it will easily hold another six years. My note: A terrific Old World red at a great price. This wine has the finesse and structure of a wine twice its price. Classic aromas of cassis, blackcurrant, blackberry, cigar box and vanilla spice. Pair with: roast beef, stew, steak, hamburgers. Drink: 2009-2015. 123489 13% D 750 mL $15.00 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Jadot Gamay Combe Aux Jacques Beauj-Vill, Combe aux Jacques’, France: VC: Drinking this wine will transport you right into the Parisian bistro scene. Made from Gamay, this popular red entices with its bouquet of fresh strawberry, cranberry and spiced blueberry. Vivacious and fruity, this is an approachable light- to medium-bodied Beaujolais. My note: A simple, rustic, happy red with a lovely medium body and smooth texture. Redolent of a basket of ripe field strawberries under the summer sun. Can you see yourself there? This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: baked ham, grilled salmon, tuna steaks. 365924 12% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Calvet Reserve Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux, France: Lovely texture and richness to this wine. Great balance and inter-play between the flavors of blackberries, pepper, and plum. Full-bodied, rich and deep. Excellent for the price. Pair with: red meats grilled or wine reduction sauce, game meats, hard cheeses. 44032 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Chanson P & Fils Pinot Noir, A.C., Burgundy, France: VC: This sleek and classically built wine shows that Burgundy produces stunning Pinot Noir for all budgets. This elegant, medium-bodied, beautifully structured red treats the palate to flavors of sour cherry, spices, underbrush and a hint of minerality as well as a finish that lasts and lasts. My note: Lovely earthiness, beetroot and tart cherries. I love this style. Medium-bodied with a silky, seductive texture. The flavor ripples through this wine from start to finish. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roasted duck breasts, rotisserie chicken. 50575 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Henri Bourgeois Sauvignon Blanc Baronnes Sancerre, A.C., Loire, France: VC: One of the top domaines in the Loire, Henri Bourgeois has been perfecting Sauvignon Blanc for ten generations. Fresh thyme and sage, kiwi, green apple, gooseberry and grapefruit aromas are quite evident. Suggesting the New Zealand style yet with European refinement, it is dry, fruit-driven and well-structured with an excellent finish. My note: A refreshing white with mild flavors of white peach and green melon. Zippy acidity makes this mouth-watering number a great aperitif or a partner to many dishes. Light- to medium-bodied. Breezy and carefree. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: goat cheese and crackers, cucumber salad, ceviche. 542548 12% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. April 21, 2009
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2005 Perrin Rhone Blend Les Sinards Chateauneuf, A.C., Rhône, France: VC: Jean-Pierre, François and Pierre Perrin created Les Sinards as an homage to their late grandfather. With some of the grapes sourced from their famous Château de Beaucastel estate, this is a classic Châteauneuf with cherry, chocolate, tobacco and chicory aromas. It’s dry, full-bodied and packed with rich fruit flavors, as well as earthy and smoky notes. My note: Love this big, black brooder! Honkin' big aromas of black plum, blackberry, kirsch, black raspberry liqueur. Did I mention that it's full-bodied? Terrific smooth texture. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: leg of lamb, roast beef cooked with garlic, thyme and rosemary. Drink: 2009-2025. 926626 14% D 750 mL $38.95 Score: 94/100. April 21, 2009
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2005 Château Pétrus Merlot Christian Moueix, A.C., Bordeaux, France: VC: No one knows Merlot better than Christian Moueix, owner of the world famous (and Merlot-based) Château Pétrus. Flavours of sour plum, blackberry, cedar and earth notes. The fruit is focused and firm, with bright acidity, and a medium-long finish.My note: A black inky wine with aromas of dark plum, blackberries, cassis, mocha and oak. Full-bodied with satisfying long flavors and finish. Decant for 1-2 hours. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: veal medallions and sautéed mushrooms. 961227 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2005 Sella & Mosca Grenache Di Riserva Sardinia, D.O.C., Sardinia, Italy: VC: Cannonau (a.k.a. Grenache) di Sardegna is the Italian answer to France’s Côte du Rhône. This pale-coloured red, typical to the variety, displays complex aromas of ripe plum, wild berries, spices, tobacco, dried flowers and smoke. The palate is filled with dense, plump and attractive fruit flavours. My note: A vibrant chianti-style red with zesty notes of ripe red berries, zingy dried tomatoes and a smoky back note. Full-bodied with rich, mouth-watering layers. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roasted red meats, spicy Italian sausages with herb-roasted tomatoes, strong cheese. 425488 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2004 Fratelli Tedeschi Amarone Az Agr, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: VC: Amarone is a labour of love. The ancient method imparts to the finished wine sweet Port-like aromas of chocolate and plum that are very inviting. Tedeschi’s Amarone offers this and much more. Loaded with cherry, dried fruit, figs and floral aromas and flavours, this wine is ready to drink now. My note: Black spices and cherry liqueur on the nose followed by a luscious sweetness of ripe fruit on the palate. Increadily full-bodied and voluptuous. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: Parmigiano Reggiano, rich game, beef dishes, dark chocolate. 433417 16% D 750 mL $41.95 Score: 91/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Finagra Tempranillo Cabernet Sauvignon Trincadeira Esporao Red Reserve, D.O.C., Alentejo, Portugal: VC: Since 1973 Herdade do Esporão has made several major investments in its winery and vineyards to become one of the the most infuential estates in the region. Made from a blend of Aragonês (a.k.a. Tempranillo), Cabernet Sauvignon and Trincadeira, this dense, fruity, and charmingly rustic red. My note: A dark, brooding wine with notes of dark chocolate, blackberry and cassis. Rich and layered. Rock your world with this one. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: stewed, braised or roasted red meat dishes. 606590 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Cathedral Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon Kwv, W.O., Paarl, South Africa: VC: This classy Cab from the Cape is loaded with aromas of cassis, cherry, violets, smoky oak and savory herbs. It’s dry and well-crafted with juicy rich flavors and firm tannins. My note: A gorgeous nose of cassis, briary, blackberry and smoke. What an incredible wine for the money. Full-bodied and smooth-textured. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: spicy beef dishes featuring coriander, cumin or allspice. 328567 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2008 Obikwa Shiraz, South Africa: VC: Light ruby, almost pink color; candied cherry, cassis and light spice aromas; medium-bodied with a sweet blackberry finish. My note: An exuberant red with luscious notes of black plums and berries. Oak spices and cigar smoke weave their way through this tasty wine. Pair with: vegetarian lasagna, hearty stews or medium cheeses. 527499 14% D 750 mL $8.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Obikwa Cabernet Sauvignon, South Africa: VC: Deep red violet colour; aromas and flavours of strawberry jam, with hints of leather, blueberry and plum; dry, full-bodied and softly textured. My note: An incredible value for this lip-smacking delicious red with very-berry ripe flavors and plums. Full-bodied and smooth-textured with a smoky wild berry note on the finish. Notes of oak vanilla spice weave through it. Pair with: veal, spice-rubbed chicken, meaty stews. 665323 12% D 750 mL $8.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2005 Muga Tempranillo Garnacha Mazuelo Graciano Muga Reserva, D.O.C., Rioja, Spain: VC: Rioja is the most famous of all Spanish regions. Its wines, made principally with the indigenous Tempranillo grape, are extensively aged in oak barrels (often American) which impart a characteristically smooth spicy-oak quality to the wines. Muga’s Reserva is a seductive wine with supple and dense fruit flavors as well as notes of cedar, spice, vanilla and coconut. My note: A rich, luxurious red with layers of black fruit flavor. Full-bodied with notes of mocha, black plums, smoke, vanilla, dark spices and tobacco. A long, satisfying finish. This one will get you out of the Cabernet rut. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: meat paella, hearty and spicy beef, game stews. 177345 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. April 21, 2009
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2005 Miguel Torres Cabernet Sauvignon Torres Gran Coronas, D.O., Penedès, Spain: VC: Over the last 130 years, the Miguel Torres winery has almost single-handedly built and maintained the reputation of Penedès, and this wine shows why. Structured with intense fruit flavours and silky tannins, this Reserva displays alluring aromas and flavours of blackberry, currants, coffee, vanilla and a classic touch of roasted bell pepper. My note: A stunningly delicious and balanced red with full-bodied notes of black fruit, vanilla smoke, dark spices and rich mocha goodness. Crack it open beside the barbecue. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: braised veal blade and root vegetables, roast pork tenderloin. 36483 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. April 21, 2009
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2003 Julian Chivite Pinot Noir Gran Feudo Reserva, D.O., Navarra, Spain: VC: Bodegas Julian Chivite is the oldest continuously family-owned winery in Spain. Over 11 generations, they have developed into one of the finest producers in Navarra and Spain. This dry, full-bodied wine is bursting with ripe cherry, sandalwood, incense, cocoa and floral aromas and flavours, and delivers a lengthy, structured finish. This Reserva’s easygoing, soft tannins make it very approachable now. My note: A delicious, lip-smacking red with full-bodied notes of black plums and berries. Smoky oak and dark spices. The kind of wine that could become your new best friend. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roasted chicken stuffed with olives, almonds and paprika. 479014 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 Beringer Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Knight's Valley, Knights Valley, Sonoma County, United States: VC: Grown in Sonoma County’s Knights Valley appellation, the concentrated grapes have produced sensual aromas of black plum purée, cocoa, blackcurrant, sweet cherry and cedar. Silky textured, the palate is loaded with sweet fruit and toasted oak flavors that are nicely offset by a lively acidity. It is full-bodied with a long, fruity and firm finish. My note: Elegant and balanced with a lot of finesse. Combines the best of Old World structure and New World fruit purity. Aromas of fleshy blackberries, plums and a wisp of smoky oak. Love it! This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roasted leg of lamb with roasted figs, beef carpaccio. 352583 14% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. April 21, 2009
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2006 RavensWood Zinfandel Vintners Blend, California, United States: VC: Ravenswood was one of a handful of wineries that recognized early on that Zinfandel was an exceptional grape variety for fine wine production. Their Vintners Blend Zin is ready for any occasion with seductive aromas of spice, black raspberry, and mocha. Soft and round with lots of fruit and cocoa flavour. My note: Bright notes of brambleberry, blueberry and raspberry with lovely liveliness and layers of textured flavor. Smooth with polished tannins and a warm finish. Perfect for pizza and movie night. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: baked beef ribs basted with homemade barbecue sauce, jerk pork. 359257 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon Seven Oaks, Paso Robles, California, United States: VC: Made from wines aged in a mixture of Hungarian and American oak barrels for 14 to 16 months, this densely colored red is packed with intense aromas of black cherry, blackcurrant, cedar, vanilla and spices. Full-bodied and sweet-centered. My note: A supple and balanced Cabernet with rich notes of blackberry, black plum and cassis. Full-bodied with a satisfying finish. A terrific wine to give as a gift as it will appeal to many palates. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: roasted or grilled red meats. 656561 14% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Cline Syrah, Sonoma County, California, United States: VC: Made with grapes sourced primarily from Cline’s Sonoma County vineyards, this well-priced, fleshy and full-bodied Syrah will have you singing its praises! Look for aromas and flavors of blackberry, cracked pepper, plum and leather with a hint of oak, and a medium-long, peppery finish. My note: One of the best values in the liquor store for when when you want a full-on, robust red with juicy berry flavors but not heavy oak. This is a superb wine: This producer is always consistently great at every price point in its range. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: pepper steak, gourmet hamburgers. 733758 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Deloach Merlot, California, United States: A luxurious wine redolent of black raspberry, plum and cherry with some vanilla spice in the background. Lightly and judiciously oaked. Pair with: grilled pork chops, lamb shank, lasagna. 89235 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Deloach Cabernet Sauvignon, California, United States: Terrific Cabernet character here with classic aromas of cassis, wild herbs, garrigue, and blackcurrant. All tied together with a gently whiff of cigar box and cedar. Pair with: barbecue roast, meatloaf, sun-dried tomato risotto. 89250 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Deloach Zinfandel, California, United States: A perfumed, aromatic wine with aromas of blackberries and pepper. Zippy acidity makes a terrific partner for food. No heavy oak here. Pair with: grilled chicken, barbecue steak, baby back ribs, pizza, hamburgers. 89268 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. April 21, 2009
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2007 Rodney Strong Wine Estates Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, United States: VC: This silky smooth wine shows why the Russian River Valley is the ‘go to’ region for quality Pinot Noir in California. Seductive aromas of cherry, plum, cinnamon, and oak spice replay on the full-bodied palate. Dry and well-balanced, it’s soft and smooth with a peppery finish. If you’re not already a Pinot lover, you’re about to become one. My note: A rich, deep, full-bodied Pinot with ultra-ripe cherries and raspberries. Silky, seductive texture with a long, warm finish. Love in a glass. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Pair with: grilled salmon, veal tenderloin. 954834 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. April 21, 2009
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