Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Vintages Release July 24, 2010

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Dessert Wine

Feist Ruby Sogevinus Fine Wines Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Vintages Wine Panel: This luscious Ruby Port has a fragrant nose, filled with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and peppery dark berry notes. Rich flavours of currants, prunes, and dried fruit with a touch of chocolate charm right on through the smooth finish. It’s medium bodied and well-balanced, with good acidity and medium length. Wait for a special occasion to bring this out, or treat yourself tonight. My note: Cherry-berry preserves with rich layers of sweet cranberry jam. Love it! Port food pairings: chocolate truffle cake. 169680 20% S 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards Tinhorn Creek & Diamondback Cabernet Franc 2007, South Okanagan Valley, BC V.Q.A., Canada: Terrific aromas of blackberry, sage, cloves, dried herbs, red currant and pomegranate. The wine was aged in two and four-year-old American oak barrels. Don't think of Cab Franc as the poor cousin to Cab Sauvignon: this wine proved different! Drink: 2009 - 2016 25701 14.3% D 750 mL $17.99 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Thorn-Clarke Shotfire Quartage Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot Merlot Malbec 2007, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Dark chocolate with black plums and blackberries. Full-bodied and smooth. 24091 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave De Roquebrun Roches Noires Macération Syrah Mourvèdre Grenache 2007, A.C., Saint-Chinian-Roquebrun, Midi, France: This wine won a Gold Medal at Vinalies Internationales 2009, in Paris. This blend of mostly syrah with some Mourvèdre and Grenache has peppery, blackberry notes and the full-bodied heft to stand up to barbecued meats and other hearty dishes. Delivers lots of satisfying flavour. Syrah Mourvèdre Grenache food pairings: barbecued meats. 177519 14.7% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Winery Inc. Growers Blend Pinot Noir 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Drop-down gorgeous: this wine has it all. Classic notes of black cherries, fresh-turned earth, violets, baking spices and raspberries. I absolutely love it! Buy a case or two. 130989 13% D 750 mL $31.95 Score: 92/100. July 2010. Favourite Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Liberty School Syrah 2007, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: This Syrah comes from the makers of the popular Cabernet (+738823) from the Vintages Essentials Collection. Fruit for this wine was sourced from vineyards throughout Paso Robles. My note: Wrapped in bold dark berry flavors with a lavish core fleshy plums and some cloves on the finish. Full-bodied and flavourful. Lovely, juicy, generous and full-bodied flavours of black plums and berries with some zingy spices and mouth-watering acidity for food. Terrific balance and lively character. Fruit for this wine was sourced from vineyards throughout Paso Robles. 942383 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rabbit Ridge Winery & Vineyards Estate Grown Zinfandel 2008, Paso Robles, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: This full-bodied and spicy Zin sports bold blackberry and raspberry flavours as well as sweet spice notes. Dry, full bodied and easy-drinking, it’s a great wine for barbecued meats including, incidentally, rabbit! My note: A nicely balanced, full-bodied Zinfandel with mocha, blackberry, brambleberry and spices. Zinfandel food pairings: barbecued meats. 695072 15.7% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards Pinot Noir 2007, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: Silky and seductive with gorgeous layers of fleshy ripe back cherries, mocha and cinnamon. Medium-bodied and ultra-delicious! 127605 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bonterra Zinfandel 2007, Mendocino County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Remarkably fresh and lively for a Cali Zinfandel. Abounds in boysenberry, raspberry, plum and dark chocolate aromas, plus some lovely cherry tones. Dry, vibrant, with relatively gentle fruit (for a Zin) beneath. There’s a subtle spiciness on the finish. You could enjoy this red as a sipper. My note: This organic wine has only 10 mg/L of free sulphur. A lovely balanced Zinfandel with classic brambleberry, blueberry and blackberry notes. Full-bodied and ultra-smooth without a grippy tannin in sight. Perfect for barbecue. Zinfandel food pairings: grilled lamb chops with rosemary, tuna steaks with a black pepper rub. 530139 14.5% v 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Avalon Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah Merlot Petite Sirah 2007, Napa Valley, California, United States: This wine is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon with some Syrah, Merlot, and Petite Sirah. It’s pleasant, dry and almost chalky with aromas of black fruit and smoke. 684399 13.8% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jekel Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Arroyo Secco, Monterey County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Jekel’s Cabernet Sauvignons are typically fruit-forward, balanced, crowd-pleasing wines that would not be out of place at a fine dinner party or a midsummer barbecue fête. My note: Chalky dry with dark berries and smoke. Full-bodied and pleasant. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: steaks, grilled beef-and-garden-veggie kebabs. 967893 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Finn Hill Winery Syrah 2007, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: This Syrah is from leading Argentine producer Catena. This bold and crisp Argentine Syrah features blackberry, candied fruit, light wood and spice notes on the nose and palate. There’s fine balance here and a pleasing, substantial finish. Enjoy this satisfying medium-full-bodied red. My note: Rich and redolent of blackcurrant, cranberry, blackberry and dark spices. Velvet supple and full-bodied with layers and layers of hedonistic pleasure. A finish as long as the sunset over the Andes. Top me up! Syrah food pairings: grilled steak in an herb rub, grilled lamb chops. 55483 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Casas Patronales Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Maule Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: A medium-purple colour denotes this wine’s youth, as does its fresh aromas of raspberry, blueberry, blackberry and spice. Dry, fresh and fruity with a soft, crowd-pleasing core making it very approachable right now. A hint of tannin suggests it will also reward 1-2 years in a cellar. Try this food-friendly wine. My note: terrific budget Cabernet! Great for parties. Pleasant notes of dark berries with full-bodied weight. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: gourmet burgers, sausages. 169607 13.5% D 750 mL $11.95 Score: 86/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lurton Pinot Noir 2008, Central Valley, Chile: Ultra-cherry-berry, full-bodied New World Pinot. Not earthy. Big and bold and tasty. 169599 12% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

St. Hallett Gamekeeper's Shiraz Grenache 2008, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Staggeringly great value and quality for the price: holy cow! Full-bodied, generous, juicy with full-bodied weight, smooth with classic aromas of black plums, berries. 166991 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Elderton E Series Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied goodness with fleshy dark berries and smoke. This wine is a blend 65% Shiraz and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon. Perfect for pizza and movie night. 108043 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Elderton Friends Shiraz 2009, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: If you want to impress your friends without breaking the bank, then this is your wine. From Barossa, this crowd-pleasing Shiraz is rich and vivacious with aromas and flavours of crushed berries, black plum, vanilla, chocolate and earthy notes. A stunning wine, this smooth and luscious red is great. My note: Juicy, generous and packed with flavour. Aromas of black plum and berries and smoke. Absolute yum! Shiraz food pairings: roasted lamb, grilled steaks, meat-based gourmet pizza. 660480 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Juicy and full-bodied with blackberry and black plums. Some mocha and spice on the finish. 730374 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Claymore Walk On The Wild Side Shiraz Viognier 2007, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Juicy and mouth-watering with purple and black plums. Full-bodied, smooth and satisfying 166983 14.2% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Goldridge Estate Pinot Noir 2008, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Here’s a great value from one of the New World’s star regions for Pinot Noir. Brims with aromas of fresh strawberry, red cherry and raspberry, plus subtle notes of spice and earth. Dry, medium bodied, and charming with fine aroma replays. My note: Mocha, toasty nose with lovely plump, fleshy plums. Round, full-bodied and smooth. Maximum pleasure! Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled salmon or tuna steaks, duck, creamy brie cheese. Drink: 2010 - 2015 175612 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Saint-Christoly Cabernet Blend 2005, A.C., Médoc, Bordeaux, France: Winner of a Silver Medal at the Concours de Paris 2007. It’s tres rustic but it comes from the spectacular 2005 vintage so it delivers some solid flavour and pleasure. Full-bodied with blackberry, pepper and dried tobacco. Would be divine with filet mignon. Cabernet Blend food pairings: duck breast with porcini mushrooms. Drink: 2010 - 2017 173963 14.2% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château De Giron Laurence Lataste, Vit. Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2006, A.C., Graves, Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Winemaker Laurence Lataste is a member of Les Aliénor du Vin de Bordeaux, an association of twelve women winemakers or producers’ wives, from twelve different appellations. Formed to promote their wines, the group is named after Eleanor of Aquitaine, who encouraged winemaking in the region in the 12th century. Nose greets you with aromas of crushed berries, coffee and spice. On the palate, flavours of blackberry, raspberry and strawberry await. An enjoyably soft wine with good fruit and good length. Age it 2-4 years, or savour it now. My note: Phenomenal value for this balanced, beautifully structures and classically style Bordeaux. Signature aromas of blackcurrant and cassis with some blackberry all wrapped in a judicious use of oak for a smoky finish. This is as cheap as you’re going to get Bordeaux: grab it while you can. Cabernet Sauvignon Blend food pairings: roasted duck à l’orange, rabbit with mustard sauce. Drink: 2010 - 2017 138727 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château de Beaucastel Coudoulet De Beaucastel Mourvèdre Grenache Syrah Cinsault 2007, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône, France: A spectacularly rich and robust red that bursts out of the glass with aromas of black raspberry, and dark spices. Nicely balanced with a robust weight and long finish. Drink: 2010 - 2022 48884 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Chomel Syrah 2007, A.C., Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: The largest appellation in the Northern Rhône, Crozes-Hermitage is known for producing elegant, fruity reds made from the Syrah grape. This deep ruby-coloured three-year-old is ageing beautifully. Aromas of raspberry, blueberry, peppery spice and smoke waft gently from the glass. These scents each in turn emerge on the fruit-forward palate. It will continue to evolve over the next few years, but will be a wonderful complement now to roast rack of lamb with garlic and rosemary. My note: Lovely peppered raspberries and a full-bodied, velvet texture. Love it! Delivers so much pleasure and happiness. Drink: 2010 - 2017 177055 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Pineraie Malbec Merlot 2006, A.C., Cahors, France: Vintages Wine Panel: What is Malbec like when it’s at home? Perhaps more famous these days in its Argentine incarnation, the dark beauty is enjoying a renaissance in its French hometown, Cahors. Pineraie’s version, blended with a smaller amount of Merlot, is beautifully constructed, exhibiting great balance, intensity and length. It’s medium bodied, with aromas and flavours of raspberry, blueberry and blackberry, with mineral notes and a touch of lemony celery seed. My note: A big, black bruiser of a wine that gives you a full-bodied whomp of flavour, yum! Blackberries, smoke, tar and spice. It’s a heady mix that needs to be served alongside a big steak or hamburger. Malbec Merlot food pairings: jambalaya, steak, hamburger. Drink: 2010 - 2014 78725 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domus Vitae Rosso Di Montalcino 2006, D.O.C., Tuscany, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Medium-deep ruby. This great-value wine presents a lovely nose of toast, coffee and cherry. It's a dry, medium-bodied wine infused with generous flavours of red and black fruit, currants and cherry. My note: Ultra-dry with mouth-watering aromas of tart cherries and cranberries. Perfect for spicy and tangy tomato dishes. Rosso Di Montalcino food pairings: penne arrabbiata with spicy sausages, barbecued salmon with capers. Drink: 2010 - 2015 168757 13.8% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vinha Longa Reserva Encostas De Estremoz 2006, D.O.C., Alentejo, Portugal: Vintages Wine Panel: Delicious Portuguese dry red. Youthful deep-ruby colour. Its aromas of cherry, plum, spicy blueberry, earth, and coffee bean draw you in. Dry, well-balanced, with aromas that translate wonderfully on the palate and finish. It will cellar nicely for a few years, but there’s always tonight! My note: Savoury, rich and robust with black raspberries and blackberries, some pepper and a whole lot of deliciousness. Great price! Food pairings: barbecued chorizo sausages. 168765 13.6% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Celler Piñol Ludovicus Garnacha Tempranillo Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, D.O., Terra Alta, Spain: This wine is a blend of 35% Garnacha, 30% Tempranillo, 25% Syrah, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon matured 3 months in French and American oak. Tasty and full-bodied with solid aromas of dark berries, fleshy black plums and some toasty oak. Terrific price. 67033 13.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Solar Viejo Alavesa Crianza Tempranillo 2006, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: Deep ruby colour. This traditional-styled Crianza exhibits aromas of blackberry, currant and plum along with nicely integrated oak, mocha and earth notes. There’s good acidity, moderate tannins, and a delectable finish of ripe fruit and sweet spice. Open this Spanish delight this evening. My note: Mellow with leather and dark berry flavour. Very smooth. Good acidity for food. Tastes more mature than it is. Tempranillo food pairings: grilled vegetables, lamb chops. 167635 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Des Aires Hautes Minervois La Livinière Syrah Carignan Grenache 2007, A.C., Midi, France: A blend of Syrah, Carignan, and Grenache that was aged in barrique. Ultra-supple texture: like satin and velvet, absolutely incredible. Gorgeous aromas of black cherry, spices and mysterious lurking flavours and aromas that are captivating and intriguing. Serve this at a dinner party: they’ll think you paid twice the price for it. Drink: 2010 - 2017 17137 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine La Casenove La Colomina Carignan Grenache Mourvèdre Syrah 2006, Vin De Pays Des Côtes Catalanes, Midi, France: A full-bodied, ultra-delicious red with black liqueur running through the heart of this. It also offers racy notes of pepper, spices and black raspberry. Perfect for barbecues. Terrific price! Drink: 2010 - 2015 74542 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mas De La Devèze 66 Grenache Syrah Carignan 2007, A.C., Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi, France: A warm, full-bodied red with black raspberries and cherries and lots of savoury pepper and spices. Supple and rich with a long finish. This wine is a blend of mainly Grenache with 30% Syrah and 10% Carignan. Drink: 2010 - 2018 65797 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Haut Lignières Le 1Er Faugères 2007, A.C., Midi, France: Very pleasant with rich, round warm aromas of redcurrant, black raspberry and a supple, smooth texture. Nice balance with a medium- to full-bodied texture. 177691 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château De Pena 2006, A.C., Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi, France: Black cherry liqueur in a river of pleasure. Full-bodied with a long, warm finish infused with blackcurrant. Drink: 2010 - 2015 178392 13.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château De Sérame Réserve Du Château Corbières Syrah Carignan Grenache 2007, A.C., Midi, France: Winner of a Gold Medal at the Concours Général Agricole Paris 2009. Vintages Wine Panel: Grown in arid conditions, the wines of Corbières are rich, dense, and herb-scented. This example is a blend of Syrah, Carignan and Grenache. Deep ruby in colour, it is bursting with ripe currant, blackberry, black cherry and spice aromas and flavours. Made in a clean, modern, fruity style, this is a great match for zesty barbecued chicken. My note: A full-bodied tasty wine that’s great for parties and other knock-it-back situations. Syrah Carignan Grenache food pairings: barbecued chicken. 175216 13% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 86/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Lou Moural Grenache Noir Syrah Carignan 2007, A.C., Minervois, Midi, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Winner of a Silver Medal at the Concours Altides du Languedoc et du Roussillon 2008. Deep ruby-coloured blend of Grenache Noir and Syrah, with a tiny bit of Carignan. It showcases the bright fruit and spice typical of Languedoc reds: a nose of ripe currant, black cherry, and plum, with wisps of smoke, and lots of the same on the palate. Medium bodied and easy to enjoy, this is a great value and will delight with beef bourguignon. My note: Terrific value for this full-bodied tasty red that delivers ripe dark berries and some smoke. Great for barbecue or meaty pizzas. Grenache Noir Syrah Carignan food pairings: barbecue, meaty pizzas. 175190 13% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Les Yeuses Les Épices Syrah 2007, Vins De Pays D'oc, Midi, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Top 100 wine and a winner of a Gold Medal at Vin de Pays de France. Syrah Les Épices is aptly named, with a nose featuring typical varietal notes such as peppercorn, smoke, and bacon accenting oodles of ripe black fruit. It all comes together with beautiful balance on the palate and lingers on the wine’s substantial finish. This would be a great companion for some serious chili or a mountain of barbecued ribs. My note: Very pleasing black pepper and dark berries. Long, warm finish and full-bodied weight. Great for meat lovers’ pizza. Syrah food pairings: chili, barbecued ribs, pizza. 177584 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosés

Bieler Sabine Rosé 2009, A.C., Côteaux D'aix En Provence, France 71423 13.5% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Best Value Rosé Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Des Carteresses Les Vignerons De Tavel Rosé 2009, A.C., Tavel, Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A rich rose petal pink colour, with an intense nose filled with aromas of lovely strawberry, raspberry and peppery spice. The palate brims with fruit: cranberry, cherry, strawberry and raspberry along with notes of pepper and minerality. This rosé is medium bodied, bright, flavourful and ready to drink. Enjoy it tonight. My note: Rock your world and change it! This rosé will change your views of all roses, especially if you’re still thinking pink and sweet. Bone-dry lovely with aromas of fresh field raspberries. Love it! Rosé food pairings: veal piccata, chicken satay with a light sauce. 739474 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. July 2010. Favourite Rosé Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boekenhoutskloof The Wolftrap Syrah Cinsaut Grenache 2009, W.O., Western Cape, South Africa: Vintages Wine Panel: This blend of 59% Syrah, 21% Cinsaut and 20% Grenache is clearly influenced by the blends made famous in the Rhône. Made using the superior saignée (free-run juice) method, this wine exhibits aromas of sweet cherry, strawberry and citrus. Dry and fresh with good fruit tones playing beneath. Enjoy this wine. My note: Bone-dry with notes of cranberries and raspberries. Refreshing. Syrah Cinsaut Grenache food pairings: grilled calamari, summer salads. 169409 13% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 86/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Señorio De Sarría Rosado 2009, D.O., Navarra, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: This dry Spanish rosé is a lovely rose-red colour. Intensely fruity aromas are suggestive of candied fruit, cranberry and raspberry, and are accented by appealing nutty and herbal notes. Dry, full and round on the palate leaving a very good impression. A refreshing rosé. My note: Cranberry and raspberry with bone-dry refreshment. Rosado food pairings: artichoke salad with chèvre, fresh spring rolls in a tangy Thai peanut sauce. 168260 13.5% v 750 mL $11.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pellegrino Simply Pink Rosé 2008, I.G.T., Sicily, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Light salmon hue. Brimming with aromas of candied fruit, strawberries and roses, plus a slight earthy note. Delicious ripe fruit is at this refreshing rosé’s core: strawberry, raspberry and plum flavours all make their way to a crisp, fruity finish. A delightful, medium-bodied wine with a light spritz to perfectly highlight your summer meals. Try it tonight. My note: Very pretty bubbly with light cherry notes and a whiff of field raspberries. Terrific for the money! Rosé food pairings: planked salmon, chickpea and black bean salad. 176719 11.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sparkling Wine

Domaine J. Laurens Le Moulin Blanquette De Limoux Brut Mauzac, A.C., Saint-Chinian-Roquebrun, Midi, France: Fresh, crisp and refreshing with aromas of green apples, toast and peach. Crisp finish. 180323 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jean Geiler Brut Crémant D'alsace Pinot Noir, A.C., Alsace, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Crémant d’Alsace is a refreshing sparkling wine made in the traditional method. It will make a wonderful alternative to Champagne at your next celebration, and is also great with food. Serve it on the back patio this summer, and your guests will be duly impressed. My note: Lovely creamy mousse with some light cherry aromas. Very refreshing and pretty. Perfect for parties and weddings. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled chicken dishes, pork roast, stuffed red peppers. 47191 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Featherstone Winery Old Vines Riesling 2008, V.Q.A. Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada: This wine won the bronze medal at the 2009 Canadian Wine Awards. It’s an absolutely delightful Riesling bursting with fresh lime, dry apricot, lemon zest and white peach. There’s a deep vein of minerality running through the core that comes up sunshine on the finish. This wine is perfect as an aperitif. Bring it on! Riesling food pairings: seafood, salads, chicken. 64584 10.2% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes T. David's Bench Chardonnay 2007, V.Q.A., St. David's Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Quality oaked Chardonnay that shows a very deft hand in the winery. Medium-gold colour with aromas of toast, tropical fruit, banana bread and spice cupboard. Dry with a dramatic toast/fruit combo that works wonderfully. Nice acidity, too, to help give this wine impeccable structure. Full bodied with a very long finish. An excellent example of New World oaked Chardonnay. Enjoy it tonight. My note: I’ve recommended this wine year after year for its consistent pleasure and quality. Aromas of green apples, Asian pear and peach are nicely balanced with some smoky oak and toasted almond. Full-bodied and tasty. Chardonnay food pairings: barbecued chicken, portobello mushrooms with a dash of balsamic vinegar. 430991 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Flat Rock Chardonnay 2007, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: A Meursault style without the Meursault price. Classic, balanced with absolutely divine notes of green apples, almond and lime. I adore this wine: my kinda Chardonnay! 681247 11.9% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ferngrove Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Frankland River, Western Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: Pale gold. A medley of aromas: zesty citrus, fresh tropical fruit, plus notes of fresh-cut grass and asparagus. It’s dry, light and lively, fresh and focused. The finish shows fine persistence. A terrific summer sipper. My note: A pleasant and refreshing white with white melon, grass and grapefruit notes. Mouth-watering. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: freshwater fish and mango salsa. 167015 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gemtree Chardonnay 2009, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: Pleasant citrus nose, with aromas of lemon, lime and lychee. The zesty citrus continues on the palate, joined by flavourful notes of tart green melon and juicy pear. All the flavours culminate in a lovely finish, with a touch of spearmint. Enjoy it tonight. My note: Tasty with full-bodied flavour of white peach, Asian pear and smoke. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled vegetable frittata, shrimp penne with pesto sauce. 138305 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jip Jip Rocks Unoaked Chardonnay 2009, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: A simple but tasty Chardonnay without oak but nice flavours of green apples and white peach. 175752 12.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 86/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hollick Wines Bond Road Chardonnay 2007, Coonawarra, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Voluptuously rich and velvet-textured. Aromas of green apples, peach and pear. Seep your senses in it, lovely! Drink: 2007 - 2011 941922 14% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henschke Tilly's Vineyard Semillon Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Pinot Gris 2008, Barossa, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: A blend of Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. Zippy yet has good density and weight. A lovely balance from a masterly hand. 656264 12.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

d'Arenberg The Dry Dam Riesling 2008, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: The ever-food-friendly Riesling pairs beautifully with a whole host of fare. My note: Just smelling this wine makes my mouth water! Gorgeous, drop-to-your-knees aromas of peach, flint, petrol (that’s good), lime zest and happiness. Racy! Riesling food pairings: grilled chicken with herbs, barbecued prawns with lemon zest and basil stuffing, roasted stuffed red peppers. 942953 11.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. July 2010. Favourite White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blackstone Winery Chardonnay 2008, Monterey County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Time for the midsummer’s eve party. Throw on a CD filled with cool, easy sounds and encourage everybody to wear summer white. Now, think warm summer salads or fire up the barbecue. Top it all off with this fruit-forward, crisp and spicy Chardonnay. Ah, summer! My note: A solid Chardonnay that is consistently good from year to year. Very reasonable price. Enticing aromas of green apples, butter and smoke. Full-bodied but not heavy. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled chicken and vegetables. 994509 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Greg Norman California Estates Chardonnay 2008, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Santa Barbara County’s cool coastal climate is ideal for developing full-flavoured, well-balanced Chardonnays like this one from pro-golfer-turned-wine-impresario, Greg Norman. Fresh and lively, this crisp Chard has a core of delicious green apple flavours, plus some lovely mineral notes. A great summer wine. My note: Smoky seductive with come hither, come closer aromas of green apples, toasty oak, butterscotch and mouth-watering peach. Superb effort! Chardonnay food pairings: seafood. 29264 13.9% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clay Station Unoaked Viognier 2008, Lodi, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Clay Station is dedicated to producing wines from grape varieties that are somewhat untraditional for California – like this fragrant Viognier. Many Cali producers add a touch of oak to Viognier, but Clay Station avoids the wood in order to allow the grape’s wonderful aromatics to come to the fore. As this full-bodied, floral- and ripe peach-scented wine shows, their decision was wise. A great choice for either spicy barbecue fare or curry dishes. My note: very pleasant and mouth-watering without the over-the-top viognier notes. Peach, some spices and pear. Balanced and tasty. Viognier food pairings: spicy barbecue, curry dishes. 25411 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Highfield Estate Paua Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy-great with terrific mouth-watering herbal resonance. Refreshing material for an aperitif. Zippy and zesty: top me up! 164020 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Goats do Roam Fairview Viognier Grenache Blanc Roussanne 2009, W.O., Western Cape, South Africa: A refreshing blend of 54% Viognier, 40% Grenache Blanc, 6% Roussanne. Terrific value for the price. Zesty notes of lime, green apple and chives. Perfect aperitif, party wine or dinner companion. Go goats go! 943167 13.5% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 88/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave De Turckheim Tradition Pinot Gris 2007, A.C., Alsace, France: Vintages Wine Panel: From one of the best cooperatives in Alsace comes this elegant Pinot Gris. Tantalizing aromas of apple, pear, lemon custard and light spice notes. On the palate, flavours of pear and apricot mingle with delicate peach notes and hints of citrus and spice. The fruit is nicely balanced by a good seam of acidity. This dry, medium-bodied white is delicious on its own, but it’s ever-versatile with food. Try it this evening. My note: A touch of fruit ripe sweetness with white fleshy peach and pear. Interesting and food-friendly. Pinot Gris food pairings: lemon chicken, spicy couscous, charcuterie. 34975 12.9% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jean Geiler Lieu-Dit Sonnenburg Riesling 2008, A.C., Alsace, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Fine single-vineyard Alsace Riesling (lieu-dit means single vineyard, or a specific portion of it). Features aromas of apricot, grapefruit and lime, plus a hint of orange pekoe and baking spices. The aromas repeat on the palate and culminate in a pleasing, off-dry/crisp finish. Racy with good balance and length. Try it this evening. My note: Exquisite balance and distinction with aromas of white peach, flint, stonefruit and Asian pear. Love it! Riesling food pairings: Thai green-curry chicken dish, risotto with butternut squash. 178368 13% MD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 2010. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Figeat Pouilly-Fumé 2008, A.C., Loire, France: Vintages Wine Panel: The Loire Valley’s famed Pouilly-Fumés offer some of the most exciting and distinctive interpretations of the Sauvignon Blanc grape. Domaine Figeat’s Savvy does not disappoint. Aromas of floral, citrus, fresh-cut grass, and hints of those trademark smoky and minerally characters engage the senses. Lip-smacking right through the dry finish. Terrific on its own. My note: Extremely zesty and herbal with wake-up-now notes of grass, chives, green apple and lime. Mouth-watering. Lovely! Pouilly-Fumé food pairings: poached trout in tarragon cream sauce, pasta aioli with grilled vegetables. 171470 12.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

St. Urbans-Hof Estate Btld. Riesling 2008, Q.B.A., Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany: Knock me over lovely! Aromas of peach wax, pear and apricot preserves. Just a touch of sweetness makes this dance beautifully with glazed ham, Asian dishes and so much more. 995746 9.5% MD 750 mL $19.75 Score: 90/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cormòns Pinot Grigio 2008, D.O.C., Isonzo Del Friuli, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: The Cormòns Wine Producers’ Co-operative is the largest winemaking company in the Friulian province of Gorizia. The membership includes more than 200 small, owner-operated vineyards with a total of 339 ha under vine. This Pinot Grigio is bright gold in colour, with vivid aromas of lemon and acacia blossom. A wonderful palate-refresher that’s the perfect segue-in-a-glass for all those upcoming backyard get-togethers. My note: White peach and grapefruit with no heavy oak or alcohol. Good aperitif. 734038 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 85/100. July 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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