2007 Boschendal Sauvignon Blanc 1685 Grande Cuvee, W.O. Coastal region, Africa: The year 1685 commemorates the founding of Boschendal and its 300-plus years of winemaking heritage. Tangy lemon and lime aromas with a backbone of mouth-watering acidity. Zesty citrus, white flowers and a mouthful of white grapefruit. It’ll wake up your mouth. Medium-bodied. Pair with: Thai shrimp, carpaccio, brushetta, chicken and feta tostades. 91249 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2007 William Fevre Chile Gran Cuvee Chardonnay, Maipo Valley, Chile: The best of both worlds in a bottle here: Old World styling and finesse with New World depth of flavor and fruit. Bring it on! A fresh, lively chard with notes of spicy oak, citrus, butter, caramel and unbridled fruit richness. Full-bodied and luscious. VC: William Fèvre is a well-respected producer of
Chablis in Burgundy who has successfully transplanted his
expertise to Chile. The dominant flavors of this beautifully balanced Chardonnay – apple, pear,
toast and butterscotch – are concentrated but not overwhelming. An exceptionally priced, versatile Chard. Pair with: pasta in cream sauce, chicken breasts stuffed with goat cheese, stir-fried veggies, baked risotto. 45146 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Moselland eG Riesling Kabinett, Q.M.P. Mosel, Germany: VC: Moselland is a co-op that produces value-priced
single-vineyard wines, such as this Riesling. The bouquet features peach and citrus fruit while, on the palate, the aromas replay, balanced by classic Riesling acidity. My note: Dazzling aromas of smoky green apples, lemon, minerals and white peach. Medium-bodied with a lovely texture. Pair with: duck a l'orange, sashimi, butternut risotto, crab salad, smoked fish. 72355 8% M 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. January 10, 2009
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2003 Dr. H. Thanisch Riesling Spatlese, Q.M.P., Germany: Pure essence of Mosel slate, with penetrating minerality, ripe lime notes and some floral notes in the background. Medium-bodied. Versatile with both food and as an aperitif. Pair with: Chinese spare ribs, cheese fondue, apple fritters, crab mousse, carrot soup. 82818 9% M 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2007 Anselmann Riesling Spatlese, Q.M.P., Germany: VC: From this award-winning winery in the relatively warm Pfalz region comes this classic late-harvest Riesling. Pale straw color with light green tinges,
leads to clean notes of peaches, apricots and grapefruit on the nose. On the palate, its slightly sweet centre is very well balanced by a fine backbone of acidity, and a long and refreshing finish. My note: Lovely notes of white flowers, toasted almonds, bergamot, candied lemon and lime. Medium-bodied with a gorgeously long finish. Pair with: warm apple risotto with pancetta, cod, bean based dishes, pork with apple sauce, biscotti. 87494 14% M 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2007 Pitars Pinot Grigio, D.O.C. Grave del Friuli, Italy: VC: This Pinot Grigio has a distinctly floral nose. It’s
dry, with a medium- to full-body, smooth, round texture, crisp apple flavors with a hint of gentle herbs, and a medium-long finish. My note: Lovely notes of white grapefruit, orange peel, white flowers and limes. Medium-bodied, crisp and refreshing. A versatile wine that will appeal to a broad range of palates. Pair with: antipasto plate, baked sole, cheese straws, fried shrimp with seafood cocktail sauce. 104117 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2008 Sileni Estates Pinot Gris Cellar Selection, Hawke's Bay, North Island, New Zealand: VC: This Pinot Gris from the warm Hawkes Bay region is another notable bargain. The nose features
lovely peach, pear and apple aromas. It’s just off-dry
with a round texture and juicy fruit flavors beautifully balanced by a bright seam of acidity. My note: Ripe tree fruit on the nose with floral and quince notes to follow. A well-delineated wine that offers both refreshment and hedonistic pleasure. Pair with: Asian noodle dishes, liver pate, fried camembert with blueberry sauce, Mediteranean tilapia, mushroom ravioli. 32292 12% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2007 Distant Land Gewurztraminer, North Island, New Zealand: A vibrant and refreshing wine with notes of zesty citrus, lime, rose petal and lychee. Crisp and satisfying with a pleasing vivacious style. Pair with: gouda cheese, foie gras, grilled salmon in ginger and soy sauce, lobster, sweet potato. Drink: 2008-2012. 75549 13% 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Merryvale Chardonnay, Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United States: A subtly wooded wine with ripe tree fruit aromas of tangerine, citrus and apples. Vibrant, full-bodied, rich and satisfying. Pair with: perogies, guacamole, swiss cheeses, fried chicken, scrambled eggs. Drink: 2008-2013. 76026 14% 750 mL $47.95 Score: 92/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 The Ruins Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon, W.O. Eilandia Robertson, Africa: VC: A blend of 60% Shiraz and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, this very approachable red is dry, medium to full-bodied with aromas and flavors of spicy black pepper, blackberries, mixed red berries and a touch of smoky oak. Well-balanced, this wine is a lovely winter warmer. Made with organic grapes, this wine contains 26 mg/l of free sulfur. My note: Excellent berry ripeness here with layers of plums. Bargain seeker will love this number from South Africa. It offers notes of smoked meat, jammy black fruit and some robust tannins. Decant for 1-2 hours. This wine will make a big splash at your next party. Pair with: pork, bison steak, smoked porkchops, garlic and grilled vegetable casserole. 18739 13% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. January 10, 2009
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2004 Dornier Wines Cabernet Franc Blend, W.O. Stellenbosch, Africa: A blend of Cabernet Franc (70%) and Merlot (30%). Dense aromas of black fruit, garrigue, roasted coffee and mocha. Great fruit extraction with a warm, lengthy finish. Pair with: goat cheese, lightly spiced curries, babaganoush, asparagus, pepperoni pizza. 606020 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Blue Cove Winemaker's Choice Cabernet Sauvignon, W.O. Western Cape, Africa: Uncomplicated and delicious: pleasure and power in the dark fleshy fruit. Nose of dark chocolate, blackberry and cassis. Full-bodied, oh yes indeed. A wine to drink when you want enjoyment but no analysis, like the guy you'll date but not marry. Pair with: shepherds pie, lamb raggout with roasted sweet peppers, roast veal, mature hard cheeses. 88823 14% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 De Heuvel Shiraz, W.O. Tulbagh, Africa: Revealing a blackberry ripeness on the nose followed by jammy plums, pepper, smoked beef and cedar. Full-bodied with a smorgasbord of sensual pleasure. Pair with: pot roast, marinated chicken, grilled tuna, grilled vegetables. 89680 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Santa Julia Malbec Reserva, Mendoza, Argentina: A terrific, flavorful Malbec with robust notes of blackberries and black plums. This is a remarkably great price for wine of this quality. Full-bodied with a satisfying finish. Pair with: venison, barbecued beef ribs, cheddar cheese, sausages, baked or grilled eggplant. 665026 14% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. January 10, 2009
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2007 De Bortoli Pinot Noir Gulf Station, Yarra Valley, Australia: Reveals a creamy cherry-scented nose on opening and follows up with a ripe core of blackberry and spice. Medium- to full-bodied with a lovely long finish. Mouth-watering acidity makes it an ideal partner for many dishes. Pair with: smoked salmon sandwiches, French baguette, duck with mango, matzo ball soup, pepperoni pizza. 15511 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Kilikanoon Shiraz The Lackey, Clare Valley, Australia: A real bunny-slipper wine: snuggly comfort for casual book club gatherings or après ski. This Shiraz was aged for 15 months in American oak and not filtered or fined, which leaves lots of robust stuffing and flavor in the bottle. Aromas of black pepper, raspberry liqueur, spice and cherry-scented leather. An unctuous texture with a long, warm finish. Pair it with good friends and boisterous conversation. Pair with: shittake mushrooms, peppercorn steak, parmesan cheese, chili, mint chocolate. 5199 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Pillar Box Red, Padthaway, Australia: As this wine is unfined and unfiltered, decant it for 1-2 hours. This is a blend of 50% Shiraz, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot. The wine was aged in both French and American oak. Aromas of gloriously ripe purple plums, fleshy black fruits and some spicy oak on the finish. Full-bodied and smooth-textured. Pair with: madeira port sauce, ratatouille, beef stew, grilled cheese sandwich, brisket. 685941 15% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Zonte's Footstep Shiraz Viognier, Langhorne Creek, Australia: A big honkin' Shiraz with a warm embrace of dark red fruit. When you bang for your buck, go straight to the Aussie aisle of your liquor store. There’s 6% of the Viognier grape in this blend to give the wine a lovely lift and brightness on the mid-palate. The wine was also aged in 20% new oak. A sweet blackcurrant nose with notes of pepper, violets and plump plums on the follow-up. This multi-textured wine is a superb value. Perfect for casual weeknight meals at home or potluck get-togethers. Pair with: Tandoori flavored dishes, roast goose, tongue, parmesan cheese, grilled vegetables. 72975 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2004 Watershed Shiraz, Margaret River, Australia: In 2007, this Shiraz was awarded Gold by the prestigious Mundus Vini International Wine Academy. This wine exhibits lots of fruit concentration and intensity with robust aromas of ripe black raspberries, tar, kirsch and smoke. Not overdone but offers lots of flavor for the buck. Pair with: spicy chicken sausage, roast beef sandwich, beef wellington, dark almond chocolate. Drink: 2008-2015. 73767 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Grant Burge Shiraz Barossa Vines, Barossa Valley, Australia: VC: Grant Burge has earned a place among Australia’s top winemakers with his tireless pursuit of quality and innovation, and by a love of wine and winemaking that goes back five generations in his family. This distinctive Shiraz is always a reliable value. Packed with ripe raspberry and cherry aromas and flavors, this smooth and supple wine also shows hints of licorice and a dose of black pepper on the rich finish. My note: A fleshy, peppery nose with layers of dusty black plums, cedar, earth and smoke. This is a well-made, harmonious wine that deserves a try. Pair with: prime rib, Ethiopian stewed chicken, braised lamb shanks, garlic casseroles. 738567 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Marquee Classic Artisan Grenache Syrah Mourvedre, Australia: Opens with intriguing notes of blackcurrant, cedar and spice, with an overlay of jammy fruit. Full-bodied, balanced and well-structured. An impressive effort from this producer. Pair with: hard cheeses, prime rib, steak fajitas, spicy thyme and sage stuffing. 75010 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Sandalford Estate Vineyards Shiraz Protégé, Margaret River, Australia: VC: Founded in 1840, Sandalford Wines is one of Australia’s oldest and largest privately owned
wineries. It’s situated in the picturesque countryside of the Swan River Valley, less than
a 30-minute drive from downtown Perth. This approachable Aussie Shiraz is a deep red with
loads of blackberry and complex spicy layers on the nose. It’s dry and medium-bodied with a
rich and satisfying finish. My note: A seamless, blackberry-scented wine with savory game and spice notes. Lots of layered flavor here with a warm, satisfying finish. A lusty Shiraz for cold winter nights. Pair with: lamb chops, barbecued beef ribs, hearty lamb stew, pork mole pablano. 80671 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Torbeck Grenache Shiraz Old Vines, Barossa Valley, Australia: VC: This blend of two classic Rhône varieties, Grenache and Shiraz (aka Syrah), is packed with concentrated fruit flavors. Dry, with a supple texture, it’s bursting with black raspberry, juicy strawberry, peppery spice and vanillin-oak flavors that culminate in a lengthy finish. My note: Torbreck’s owner and winemaker David Powell continues to make what are some of Australia’s greatest wines. A flamboyantly-styled, intense wine with dense notes of blackberries, plums, game meats and cigar. A lengthy finish adds to its enjoyment. Pair with: beef wellington, herb-crusted cheese, Mexican dishes, ostrich. 80721 14% 750 mL $20.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Coriole Vineyards Estate Grown Shiraz, McLaren Vale, Australia: A blockbuster of a wine with a dense jammy nose and notes of purple plums, blueberries, licorice and smoky oak. Offering good depth and a nice finish. Pair with: game casseroles, rare roast beef, fruit chutney, grilled vegetables, dark chocolate. Drink: 2008-2012. 931600 14% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 St. Hallett Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia: One of my favorite producers for consistently creating delicious, well-priced wines. This one is no exception. It has copious amounts of ripe berries and plums with admirable power and richness. Pair with: venison, causoulet brisket, grilled cheese sandwiches, rich meat and game casserole. 980631 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Malivoire Wine Company Gamay, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: From one of Ontario’s leading cult producers, this Gamay turns notions of the wine is on its head. No simple country here! Notes of black strawberries, jammy cherry and a hint of spice on the nose. Medium-bodied with a seductive, silky texture. Pair with: spicy curries, prime rib, sliced roast beef, cheddar cheese. 591313 12% D 750 mL $17.00 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2007 Montes Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenere Apalta Vineyard Limited Selection, Colchagua Valley, Chile: VC: This modern blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30%
Carmenère is truly a superb
value that shows the best
of both varieties with its blueberry, plum, blackberry and
spice flavors. It’s dry and
mouth-filling with plush fruit
flavor and a lengthy finish. If you’re a Cab lover looking for something a little different,
then look no further. My note: A well-structured, robust Cabernet blend with aromas of black plums and pepper. Great layers of flavor. A lovely finish. Pair with: bison steak, French baguette, blue cheeses, horseradish sauces, seared tuna with a pepper crust. 16071 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2007 Baron Philippe De Rothschild Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Maipo Valley, Chile: VC: The Rothschild family’s most
recent project in Chile is a
line of regionally designated
wines. In each region, they
have selected the variety best
suited to the growing conditions
there. Maipo Valley is famous for Cabernet Sauvignon, and this well-delineated wine has flavors
of black fruit, with hints of
cedar and fine-grained tannins. This is a classic Bordeaux-styled
Cabernet. My note: An elegant, balanced and full-bodied wine with notes of blackcurrants and cassis. A distinguished finish. Decant for 1-2 hours before serving. Pair with: Tuscan breads, dark chocolate almonds, roasted red meats. 32151 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2007 Casa Lapostolle Merlot, Rapel Valley, Chile: VC: This wine has typical Merlot aromas of ripe blackberry, plum, black pepper, earth and a touch of roasted green bell pepper. The first thing you recognize on the palate is a very smooth texture,
carrying ripe, forward fruit and spicy vanilla notes. The flavors are backed up by mild to medium acidity and soft tannins. My note: Loaded with black fruit and glycerin, this full-bodied number has aromas of vanillin, prunes, black plums and kirsch. Pair with: pocini mushrooms, barbecued backribs, pan-seared steak, Mexican dishes, rack of lamb. 405712 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Terranoble Cabernet Sauvignon, Colchagua Valley, Chile: VC: Very attractive nose, almost Bordeaux-like, with roasted coffee, toast, cassis, blackberry and chocolate aromas. It’s dry, medium full-bodied with layers of cassis, raspberry, cedar, and chocolate notes, medium acidity
and fine tannins all leading to
a lingering finish. Harmonious
and elegant, this is put
together really nicely. My note: This knockout wine has ripe blackberry notes along with roasted nuts, black plums, toasted oak and vanilla in the background. Pair with: breaded veal cutlets, creamed onions, wild boar, pralines, fajitas, spicy roast beef. 46268 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Chilensis Reserva Carmenere, Maule Valley, Chile: VC: The once-forgotten Bordeaux grape, Carmenère, is thriving in Chile’s winemaking valleys and is
proving to be as important to Chile as Malbec is to neighboring Argentina. This is a fresh and
fruity mouth-filling red with aromas and flavors of juicy ripe cherries, chocolate, gentle herbal notes and toasty oak. My note: Redolent of smoked herbs, jammy cassis, and gamey notes. Full-bodied and lip-smacking delicious. Tremendous value. Pair with: venison, hard cheeses, rack of lamb, pepper steak. 657981 14% XD 750 mL $11.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Vina Calina Alcance Cabernet Sauvignon, Maule Valley, Chile: VC: Viña Calina uses grapes from specific single blocks within their estate vineyards to craft their Alcance wines. The fruit for this Cab was grown in a rocky, hillside block in their El Maitén Vineyard in Maule. This deeply colored Cab is packed with aromas of cherry, blackcurrant and ample sweet oak and coffee. The palate is bursting with sweet cassis and red berry preserve flavors leading to a touch of vanilla on the lingering finish. My note: Spicy oak with an underlay of violets, blackberry, black plums and cigar box. This is an attractive wine that will provide lots of drinking pleasure. Pair with: rib roast with coffe and pepper rub, cheddar cheese, Thai coconut shrimp. 79533 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Cave de Saumur Des Vignerons Saumur Reserve, A.C., France: A lovely, long expression of blue fruits, violets, cassis, mushrooms and cigar. Old World style and structure with a deliciously long finish. Pair with: cinnamon and cumin spiced dishes, mild curries, ham, seared tuna with a pepper crust, blue cheese sauces. 103879 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Château Bellevue Cabernet Sauvignon Blend, A.C. Fronsac, France: VC: Château Bellevue lies just outside of Saint-Michel de Fronsac in the heart of the Right Bank. Olivier Decelle purchased the estate in 2000 and his commitment to quality is plain to see, investing heavily in the vineyard and winery as well as
introducing biodynamic methods of viticulture. Well-structured, with ripe tannins, and beautiful
ripe, red fruit, this wine is clearly part of the new
wave of classically made, affordable Bordeaux coming out of minor appellations. My note: Exhibits a concentrated nose of mocha, cassis, blackcurrant and vanillin. A elegant wine with a long finish. Pair with: steak au poivre, Irish stew, rabbit in mustrad sauce, bittersweet chocolate. Drink: 2008-2013. 45708 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Chateau Pesquie Grenache Syrah, A.C. Cotes due Ventoux, France: This wine was not fined or filtered and is a blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah. A dense, blackcurrant-scented nose follows up with black cherries, toasty oak and some earthy notes. Pair with: banon cheese, petit provencal cheese, cheese-based pastas. 652313 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Chateau Roubia , A.C. Minervois, France: VC: This wine is certified organic by the Nature et Progrès organization and contains 13 mg/L of free sulphur. A good value red from southern France with aromas of blackberry, leather and underbrush. Soft and rich with good tannins to bring balance. My note: A delicious, robust red with chewy berry fruit, black plums, garrigue, oak and dried herbs. This wine offers solid value for the money. Pair with: grilled steak, portobello mushrooms, spicy sausage pizza, lasagne. 705632 12% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Delas Freres Syrah Blend Saint-Esprit, A.C. Cotes Du Rhone, France: A ripe, tarry wine bursting with notes of black cherry, dried herbs, cedar, cigar box and pepper. Full-bodied with mouth-filling textured layers of flavor. Pair with: moussaka, lasagne, cornish hen, goose, beet soup. 729962 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Chateau Larroque Cabernet Sauvignon Blend, A.C. Bordeaux, France: VC: From a lesser-known estate, this 2005 Bordeaux was a Gold Medal winner at the Concours de Bordeaux in 2006. Château Larroque is on a plateau near the Graves appellation, in the village of Coimères, and is run, as it has been for years, by the Ducourt family. This treasure offers excellent structure, blue and blackberry characteristics
with bramble fruit and earth tones. A real find from this
highly rated vintage. My note: Classic notes of cassis, blackcurrant and blackberries. Some tobacco, licorice and herbs in the background. Plenty of tannins so decant for 1-2 hours. Pair with: prime rib steak, roast lamb, oyster and kidney pie, game terrine. 92536 13% 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2004 Leone De Castris Negroamaro Malvasia Nera Salice Salentino Rosso Riserva, Puglia, Italy: Why are Italian wines so popular? This southern Italian red has all the muscle of sun-ripened fruit with the balancing acidity from wine's style: perfect for Mafioso weddings and pizza nights. A blend of 90% Negroamaro and 10% Malvasia Nera grapes. Plenty of black raspberries here along with some notes of opulently textured cherries and spiced vanilla. Robust and layered with a nice finish. Pair with: sichuan beef, pasta in tomato sauce, veal scallopini, lasagna, pizza, pesto sauce. 597534 14% 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Le Arche Amarone Della Valpolicella, D.O.C., Italy: VC: There’s a nice intensity to the nose, displaying floral notes, Christmas cake, dried fruit, red plum, candied cherry, leather and sweet spice aromas. It’s dry, medium full-bodied
with a soft and lush mouthfeel. The aromas replay beautifully on the palate and are balanced
by medium acidity and refined tannins. Very tasty, this is a wine to contemplate as it lingers
on the finish. My note: Kirsch liqueur on the nose with gorgeous depths of black fruit, cappuccino, dried herbs and violets. A powerhouse wine with a blockbuster length. Pair with: stuffed mushrooms, Italian cheese bred, turkey burgers, lentil patties, salami. 95836 15% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 93/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 L.A. Cetto Petite Sirah, Guadalupe Valley, Mexico: Did you even know that Mexico makes wine? Good ones, my friend. The Guadalupe Valley in Mexico has been touted as the next Napa Valley. Certainly, this producer is helping establish the region’s reputation. I have recommended this wine year after year as one of the best values on the liquor store shelf. Aromas of black plums, game, cedar and vanilla spice. Full-bodied and deliciously chunky. Perfect as your transitional wine from work to evening relaxation. VC: The region is known for its Petite Sirah which is making a name for itself here as a stand-alone variety. Dense purple in color, it offers black pepper and tea notes leading to an impressive, well-rounded finish. Pair with: marinated chicken on grill, roast beef, Tandoori-flavored dishes, spicy black bean dishes, steak and cheese enchiladas. 983742 14% XD 750 mL $10.95 Score: 87/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Joao Russo Monteiro Tinto Reserva Arrobeiros Douro, D.O.C., Portugal: A stylishly elegant wine with rich notes of berry fruit, cigar box, ripe blackcurrants and vanillin. There’s a touch of herbaceousness in the nose. Full-bodied and rich. Pair with: grilled steak, green peppers, pork chops, Mexican dishes, hard cheeses. 103457 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2003 Taja Reserva Monastrell Cabernet Sauvignon Tempranillo Merlot, D.O. Jumilla, Spain: This wine is made by the owners of the coveted Château Palmer in Bordeaux. It’s a blend of Monastrell (Mourvèdre), Cabernet
Sauvignon, Tempranillo and Merlot. Terrific richness and depth. Aromas of juicy black plums, kirsch, pepper and dusty cigar box. Full-bodied with a good finish. Pair with: beef daube, roasted turkey, tongue, tacos. Drink: 2008-2016. 243329 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2002 Gran Toc Hill Tempranillo Blend, D.O. Penedes, Spain: VC: The Gran Toc Hill Reserva is made from 60% Tempranillo, 25%
Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, which are fermented and macerated in stainless steel
tanks and then aged in American and French oak barrels. My note: A heady mixture of black cherry, wild herbs, and mature plum flavors in this full-bodied number. Excellent fruit depth and flavor length. Pair with: hard cheeses, lamb chops, cotechino, grilled zuchini, eggplant parmigano. 673608 12% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 N Sentido , D.O. Ribera del Duero, Spain: Copious amounts of blackberries, plums and cigar box. Polished tannins with many layers of flavor and complexity. A long, satisfying finish for this robust wine. Pair with: duck, roast lamb, bacon, grilled portobello mushrooms, prime rib steak. 82081 15% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 92/100. January 10, 2009
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2005 Albada Vinas Viejas Garnacha Tinto, D.O. Calatayud, Spain: This wine is made from 100% Garnacha grapes and aged
in oak for one year. Opulent texture with aromas of intense blackberry, lavender and black fruits. Fleshy flavors wrap around a core of smoky, toasty oak. Full-bodied. Pair with: hard cheeses, garlic bread, grilled cheddar cheese sandwiches, cheeseburgers. 93005 14% 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Salinas Mo Monastrell Blend, D.O. Alicante, Spain: This red is a blend with the Monastrell grape leading. A garrigue-scented nose with terrific fruit density. Notes of ripe blueberries, pepper and glycerin. Pair with: hard cheeses, prime rib with a cherry reduction sauce, dark chocolate. 95133 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Blackstone Winery Merlot, California, United States: A full-bodied, generous red with fleshy plums, ripe blackberries, mocha, cigar box and some toasty oak. Layers of richess. A treat to drink. Pair with: goat cheese stuffed chicken, chicken wings, beet salad, strong cheeses. 606327 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 10, 2009
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2006 Cline Mourvedre Ancient Vines, Contra Costa County, California, United States: A solidly made wine with lush blackberry, currant and cassis with background notes of mint, smoke, coffee and cedar. A great effort from this producer. Pair with: paella, Spanish dishes, bolognese sauce, kangaroo. 66084 15% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. January 10, 2009
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