Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
www.nataliemaclean.com

Wish List

Nicholas

Increase Font Size | Decrease Font Size


Manos Negras Pinot Noir 2009, Patagonia, Argentina: Juicy and delicious: fantastic price! Vibrant juicy cherry aromas and flavours. Beautifully medium-bodied and satin smooth. Bring it on! Drink: 2012-2016. 275156 14% XD 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 90/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Luca G Lot Chardonnay 2010, Tupungato, Mendoza, Argentina: Loving it! Buttery, generous and giving: perfect boyfriend (wine). Layered and complex yet straight-up (perfect husband). Drink: 2012-2016. 167338 14% XD 750 mL  $27.95 Score: 92/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Wakefield Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Mint and blackberry on the nose. Juicy, full-bodied, rich and delicious on the palate. Amazing price. Drink: 2012-2015. 744235 14% XD 750 mL  $17.95 Score: 90/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Robert Oatley Vineyards Gewürztraminer 2011, Cumbandry Vineyard, Mudgee, New South Wales, Australia: Lovely pretty, floral, spicy. Nice balance. Drink: 2012-2015. 280875 12.50% D 750 mL  $24.95 Score: 90/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Zonte's Footstep Lake Doctor Shiraz 2009, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: Black, licorice, black and purple plum. Full-bodied smooth, smoky and fantastic, especially for the price. Drink: 2012-2015. 72975 14.50% D 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 89/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Tar & Roses Shiraz 2010, Heathcote, Victoria, Australia: Draws you right into the glass! Mint and blackberries mingle seductively on the nose. Full-bodied, juicy and delicious. Smooth. Yum! Drink: 2012-2015. 282731 14.50% XD 750 mL  $21.95 Score: 91/100. August 18, 2012 Full Review
Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz 2009, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied with perfect manners and French private school. Robust dark fruit hemmed in by a perfect seam of barely detectable acidity and a long finish that lasts a trans-Atlantic flight. Drink: 2012-2016. 422782 14% D 750 mL  $49.00 Score: 92/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
De Bortoli Wines - Yarra Valley Noble One Botrytis Semillon 2008, New South Wales, Australia: This dessert wine rules! Want visions of sugarplums in your head this holiday... Bring it, with this wine! A lusciously layered dessert wine with rich aromas and flavours of honeyed apricot and peach preserves. Triple yum! Drink: 2010-2017. 917252 10% S 375 mL  $29.95 Score: 95/100. December 8, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Buller Wines Victoria Tawny, Victoria, Australia: Lovely aromas of toffee and toasted almond. Splendid beyond the intellect: this dessert wine talks to the senses directly. Be quiet and enjoy. Drink: 2012-2018. 271403 18% S 750 mL  $18.95 Score: 91/100. July 21, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Red Hill Estate Chardonnay 2009, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia: Holy smokes! Vibrant and mouth-watering, loaded with lime acidity that cuts like a silver knife through the butter richness. You truly can have it all in one glass ... Right here. Drink: 2012-2017. 280248 13% XD 750 mL  $21.95 Score: 95/100. July 21, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Flat Rock Cellars Pinot Noir Rosé 2011, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Delightfully pretty! Fleeting, gossamer aromas of field strawberries. Mouth-watering and refreshing. Drink: 2012-2014. 39974 13% XD 750 mL  $16.95 Score: 90/100. January 19, 2013 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Vineland Estates Winery Riesling Icewine 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada: A gorgeously concentrated elixir of honeyed apricot and peach preserves. Pure happiness and sunshine in a glass. Drink: 2012-2018. 563445 9% MS 375 mL  $39.95 Score: 93/100. May 26, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Quails' Gate Estate Winery Rosé 2011, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Full-bodied for rose but medium in the grand wine scheme of things. Delightfully flavourful with aromas of field raspberries and some nutmeg. The most un-boring rose I've tasted. I'm getting a case. Drink: 2012-2014. 275842 13% XD 750 mL  $17.95 Score: 92/100. June 23, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Magnotta Winery Limited Edition Sparkling Ice Sparkling Single Vineyard, Charmat Method Vidal Icewine 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Gorgeous concentration and depth. Honeyed essence is brought to life and vibrancy with the effervescence. Your dessert island wine. Drink: 2012-2020. 50195 9.80% S 375 mL  $69.95 Score: 93/100. June 23, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Huff Estates Winery Cuvée Peter F. Huff Sparkling Traditional Method Sparkling White 2008, V.Q.A., Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada: Toasty, rich and deep with refreshing notes of green apple and fresh bread. Long beery, yeasty finish. Drink: 2012-2014. 198754 12% D 750 mL  $39.95 Score: 91/100. July 7, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Southbrook Vineyards Triomphe Cabernet Franc Rose 2011, VQA, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada: Field-fresh strawberries and barefoot happiness. Dry, refreshing and medium-bodied. This organic wine has just 21 mg/l of free sulphur. Drink: 2012-2014. 279117 12%  750 mL  $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 8, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
G. Marquis Vineyards Silver Line Ice Rosé Méthode Classique Sparkling Rose, V.Q.A., Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada: Toasty and full-bodied with aromas of ripe raspberries and toast. Drink: 2012-2014. 274761 13.40% D 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 90/100. March 17, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Equifera Icewine Riesling 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Gorgeous luxury for the senses. Apricot and peach preserves wrapped in a blanket of honeyed richness. Enjoy life! 258715 9% MS 375 mL  $59.95 Score: 93/100. April 28, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Sumac Ridge Estate Winery Tribute Chardonnay, Okanagan Valley, B.C., Canada: Made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes in honour of Canadian athletes who will compete at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympics Winter Games, this wine dances with zingy citrus notes and has a lovely toasty finish. 169508 13% XD 750 mL  $30.00 Score: 91/100. December 10, 2011 Favourite Sparkling Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 2010, Gaspereau Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada: Celebrate life! Wow this is liquid exuberance. Moscato-grape aromas with orange zest and honeysuckle swaying in the summer breeze. Low alcohol, and some sweetness make this a great aperitif or companion to any spicy dish or one with a bit of sweetness like glazed ham, sweet potatoes etc. Drink: 2011-2015. 256289 6.50% S 750 mL  $25.00 Score: 92/100. August 4, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Open Vidal Icewine 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Superb! Apricot and honey with an underlay of rich butterscotch. Perfect with dessert or as dessert on its own. Half the price of most icewines. Drink: 2011-2018. 149799 9.50% S 375 mL  $29.95 Score: 91/100. November 12, 2011 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Inniskillin Niagara Estate Riesling Icewine 2008, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Spectacular! I love the combination of toffeed richness and zesty effervescence. This is a real treat to try this holiday if you've never done so (and even if you have). Drink: 2008-2020. 558288 13% S 375 mL  $69.95 Score: 93/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Château des Charmes Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard Riesling Icewine 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Gorgeous concentration with peach-marmalade preserves and a honeyed apricot finish. Lovely as dessert on its own or with biscotti or fruit- or nut-based desserts. 413724 13% S 375 mL  $59.95 Score: 92/100. January 21, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Neige Première Ice Cider 2009, Quebec, Canada: Fun! Essence of apple: the platonic ideal of apples. A delicious cider of green tart apples. 39305 12% MS 375 mL  $24.75 Score: 93/100. January 21, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Flourish Wines Vidal Icewine 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: A profusion of honey-drizzled apricots and peach preserves. So lovely. Top me up! Drink: 2012-2018. 222356 9.50% S 200 mL  $17.95 Score: 91/100. January 5, 2013 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
G. Marquis Vineyards The Silver Line Vidal Icewine 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Luscious layers of baked apple pie sprinkled with cinnamon. So gorgeous. Drink: 2012-2018. 262477 9.90% S 200 mL  $27.95 Score: 92/100. February 4, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Quails' Gate Estate Winery Chardonnay 2010, VQA, Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada: Lovely, round and full-bodied with a smokey, green apple finish. Yum. Drink: 2012-2016. 377770 14% D 750 mL  $20.95 Score: 90/100. August 18, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Flat Rock Gravity Pinot Noir 2010, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Sigh. Please don't make me write about this wine right now because I just want to drink it. Silky black cherries and layers of flavour without being heavy. Come back later for more adjectives. Drink: 2012-2016. 1560 12.90% D 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 92/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Bachelder Niagara Chardonnay 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Toasted along with green apple goodness. Perfectly balanced like Thomas himself. Drink: 2012-2016. 302083 13% XD 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 91/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
1865 Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, D.O., Maipo Valley, Chile: Stunningly delicious! Full-bodied with fleshy, caressing blackberries. Come hither layers of comforting flavour and a long satisfying sigh of a finish. Drink: 2012-2016. 37911 14.50% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 18, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Henri De Villamont Les Évocelles Gevrey-Chambertin Pinot Noir 2009, A.C., Burgundy, France: In real estate it's location, location, location. In wine, it's increasingly texture, texture, texture. This feels like sliding on a cool silk dress over a sun-warmed body, head first down to angles. It brushes all the senses lightly, teasing and drawing you back to the glass. Satin cherries, some spice and medium- to full weight though never heavy or chafing. Drink: 2012-2018. 279042 13.50% XD 750 mL  $42.95 Score: 95/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Domaine Roche Romain Roche, Vign.-Récolt. Cairanne 2010, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: Delicious! Purple plum liqueur concentration of flavours. Loaded with alcohol and flavour. Full-on palate whacker. Drink: 2012-2016. 283184 14% XD 750 mL  $21.95 Score: 91/100. August 18, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Domaine La Soufrandise Clos Marie Pouilly-Fuissé 2010, A.C., Burgundy, France: Bright and vibrant with crisp, gleaming green apple and lime aromas. Mouth-watering, great for food. Drink: 2012-2016. 42622 13.50% XD 750 mL  $27.95 Score: 92/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
La Font Des Grières Gigondas Vignerons De Gigondas 2009, A.C., Rhône, France: Robust, spicy and full-bodied with an upfront pleasure. Dark red raspberries and spicy dark plums. Long finish. Drink: 2012-2016. 175729 14.50% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 91/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Perrin & Fils La Gille 2010, A.C., Gigondas, Rhône, France: Lovely! Full-bodied, savoury and delicious! Aromas of cedar, wild black cherry and forest floor. Drink: 2012-2018. 906073 14% XD 750 mL  $32.95 Score: 93/100. August 18, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Delamotte Brut, A.C., Champagne, France: Toasty and crisp with terrific complex and refreshment. Very elegant. Drink: 2012-2016. 183434 13% XD 750 mL  $48.95 Score: 90/100. April 14, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Château Paul Mas Clos Des Mûres 2010, A.C., Côteaux Du Languedoc, Midi, France: Dark, smoky and full-bodied with savoury, meaty black fruit. Terrific price for this quality of wine. Great for meat dishes. Elegant dinner party wine. Drink: 2012-2016. 286393 14.50% D 750 mL  $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Château Lorgeril Collection D'altitude 2009, A.C., Cabardès, Midi, France: Smoky, full-bodied and delicious! Savoury black fruit with a long satisfying finish. Terrific for the money. Drink: 2012-2015. 286781 13% XD 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 90/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Nicolas Maillart Platine Premier Cru Brut Champagne, A.C., Champagne, France: Lovely aromas of field strawberries and raspberries tickle your nose and senses. Glorious champagne at a price you can't beat. Drink: 2012-2015. 244103 12% D 750 mL  $46.95 Score: 91/100. March 3, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
André Clouet Brut Grand Réserve Champagne, A.C., Champagne, France: Toasty and full-bodied with a generous treatment of oak. Full-bodied and muscular. Drink: 2012-2015. 228718 12% XD 750 mL  $42.95 Score: 90/100. February 4, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Gorgeous Gift Wine Full Review
Domaine De Rimauresq 2010, A.C., Côtes De Provence, Midi, France: A blend of 45% grenache, 40% cinsault and 15% tibouren grapes. A light- to medium-bodied wine with vibrant field raspberry and strawberry aromas. Dry and refreshing. Perfect! Drink: 2011-2013. 226647 13% XD 750 mL  $18.95 Score: 91/100. December 10, 2011 Top Rated Rosé Wine. Full Review
Domaine De Nizas Rosé 2010, A.C., Coteaux Du Languedoc, Midi, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Dry, fresh and fruit-filled blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre with cranberry and ripe strawberry notes prominent. Good structure and a lovely, long and fruity finish. A fine sipper that will also pair well with the cranberry sauce for your Thanksgiving dinner, and offer a tangy contrast to the more savoury elements of the meal. My note: terrific! Dry and robust with rose petal and raspberries and dried herbs. Fantastic refreshment served chilled. Drink: 2011-2013. 654988 13.50% XD 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 90/100. October 1, 2011 Top Rated Rosé Wine. Full Review
E. Guigal Rosé 2010, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: The Guigal family is renowned for producing extraordinary wines, so it is no surprise that their cranberry-pink Côtes du Rhône Rosé adds yet another feather to their cap. Delightful aromas of peach, strawberry and cranberry rise effortlessly from the glass. The palate is dry, medium bodied, fresh, fruity and nicely structured. This makes an ideal aperitif. My note: this producer is as dependably delicious as the sun rising and setting. Gorgeous, full-bodied rose with black raspberry notes and a bone-dry, mouth-watering texture and weight. Bring it on before the sun sets! Drink: 2011-2013. 225003 14% XD 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 91/100. August 20, 2011 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Château D'aquéria Jean Olivier, Producteur Rosé 2011, A.C., Tavel, Rhône, France: The rose I drink for personal pleasure and stock up every year. Bone-dry, complex with field berry notes and a long, dry finish. Drink: 2012-2014. 712000 13.50% XD 375 mL  $10.45 Score: 93/100. May 12, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Château d'Aquéria Tavel Rosé 2011, Rhône A.C. Tavel, France: The rose I drink for personal pleasure and stock up every year. Bone-dry, complex with field berry notes and a long, dry finish. Drink: 2012-2014. 319368 13.50% XD 750 mL  $18.95 Score: 93/100. May 12, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Blue Top Brut Champagne, A.C., Champagne, France: Terrific toast and crispness. Baked bread and green apple vibrancy. Drink: 2012-2015. 68288 12% XD 750 mL  $49.95 Score: 90/100. March 17, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Baron-Fuenté Grand Millésime Brut Champagne 1998, A.C., Champagne, France: An incredibly fresh and vibrant wine, especially given its age. In fact, the maturity has only imparted a depth and richness that deepens its complexity but doesn't diminish its refreshment. Drink: 2010-2015. 155119 12% XD 750 mL  $51.95 Score: 91/100. March 31, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Gassier Sables D'azur Rosé 2011, A.C., Côtes De Provence, France: I love it! (I also just shouted that out the window to some surprised people on the sidewalk.) So very pretty with a basket of fresh field strawberries. Bask in the sun and pretend you are by the Mediterranean. Dry and refreshing. Drink: 2012-2014. 33621 12.50% XD 750 mL  $13.95 Score: 90/100. March 31, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Château De Trinquevedel Demoulin Rosé 2011, A.C., Tavel, Rhône, France: A lovely and elegant Tavel rose that's not as robust as others I've tasted. That is not to say it's wimpy. Lovely aromas of raspberries. Bone-dry and refreshing. Drink: 2012-2014. 729947 13.50% XD 750 mL  $17.95 Score: 90/100. March 31, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Henriot Souverain Brut Champagne, A.C., Champagne, France: Classic! Bring me back to champagne always. Toasty, elegant, refined, fresh brioche, green apple. Drink: 2012-2015. 959643 12% D 750 mL  $56.95 Score: 91/100. July 7, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Perrin & Fils Tavel Rosé 2011, A.C., Rhône, France: Rose is a carefree wine but this one is complex is the most delightful way! Layers of rose petal, strawberry and sunshine. Love it! Drink: 2012-2014. 680801 13.50% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 92/100. June 9, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Domaine Corne-Loup Jacques Lafond, Prop.-Récolt. Rosé 2011, A.C., Tavel, Rhône, France: Full-bodied with fleshy ripe raspberries. Dry and refreshing. Drink: 2012-2014. 71209 14% XD 750 mL  $16.95 Score: 89/100. August 4, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Domaine Latour-Giraud Les Narvaux Chardonnay 2009, A.C., Meursault, Burgundy, France: I can see the road signs in Burgundy when I smell this wine. Love it! Classic chardonnay raised to the Platonic ideal of what this wine should be. Just enough toasty oak, green apple and rounded layers with an extra long finish. Drink: 2012-2018. 12369 13% D 750 mL  $74.00 Score: 95/100. July 21, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Cave de Lugny Cuvée Millésime Brut Crémant De Bourgogne 2009, A.C., Burgundy, France: Stunningly great for the money! Wow! Toasty with crisp green apple fruit. Your go-to bubbly for the next party or even New Year's, buy now. Drink: 2012-2015. 183764 11.50% XD 750 mL  $28.95 Score: 89/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Château St. Roch Syrah Grenache Rosé 2011, A.C., Côtes De Roussillon, Midi, France: Light and pretty with mouth-watering flavours of tart field strawberries. Refreshing. Drink: 2012-2013. 276352 13% D 750 mL  $14.95 Score: 87/100. July 21, 2012 Best Value Rosé. Full Review
Domaine Maby La Forcadière Tavel Rosé 2011, Rhône A.C., France: Full-bodied with black raspberries. Loaded with flavour. Dry and refreshing. Drink: 2012-2014. 701318 14.50% XD 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 21, 2012 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Comte De Négret Maison Johanes Boubee Rosé 2011, A.C., Fronton, Southwest, France: Lovely tart field raspberries and rose petals. Bone-dry and refreshing. Drink: 2012-2015. 276378 12.50% D 750 mL  $12.95 Score: 88/100. July 21, 2012 Best Value Rosé. Full Review
Joseph Cattin Brut Crémant D'alsace, A.C., Alsace, France: Crisp and toasty and fresh, especially for this great price. Classic and elegant for your large parties. Drink: 2012-2014. 281329 12% D 750 mL  $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 21, 2012 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Domaine Sainte Marie Tradition Rosé 2011, Côtes de Provence A.C., France: Lovely and light with rose petal and tiny field raspberries. Dry and refreshing. Drink: 2012-2014. 283564 12.50% XD 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 89/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value Rosé. Full Review
Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Riesling 2011, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany: Beautiful peach blossom nose then a surprising but delightful acidic attack on the palate that is ultra-refreshing. Medium-bodied with terrific refreshment. Drink: 2012-2016. 160846 7.50% MD 750 mL  $23.25 Score: 90/100. August 18, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Bollig-Lehnert Trittenheimer Apotheke Riesling 2009, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany: Seductive honey-apricot nose. Medium sweetness let's this wine dance with glazed ham or sweet potatoes or Asian and spicy. Medium-bodied. Terrific! Drink: 2012-2017. 284448 12% M 750 mL  $17.95 Score: 90/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Schloss Reinhartshausen Hattenheimer Wisselbrunnen Riesling Kabinett 2009, Deutscher Prädikatswein, Rheingau, Germany: I want to retire in the cellar of this winery. Gorgeous riesling with lime flower, honeysuckle and peach goodness. Perfect. Drink: 2012-2018. 114801 12.50% M 750 mL  $23.00 Score: 91/100. August 4, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Darting Dürkheimer Nonnengarten Gewürztraminer Kabinett 2011, Deutscher Prädikatswein, Pfalz, Germany: Classic gewurz on the nose: rose petal and lychee. Generous sweetness on the palate is perfectly balanced with acidity. The ultimate wine for Asian, curries and spicy dishes. Try it! Drink: 2012-2018. 789628 12.50% D 750 mL  $16.95 Score: 92/100. August 4, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Chateau Imperial Late Harvest Tokaji 2007, Tokaj, Hungary: Lovely dessert wine with apricot and clementine aromas. Not too sweet or cloying. Nice finish to a dinner. Drink: 2012-2017. 261693 12.10% M 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 88/100. April 28, 2012 Best Value Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Tenuta S. Anna Superiore De Valdobbiadene Prosecco, D.O.C.G., Veneto, Italy: White peach refreshing. Toasty and summery. Perfect for big parties and weddings. Drink: 2012-2014. 281386 11.50% D 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 90/100. October 26, 2013 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Verbena Brunello Di Montalcino 2007, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Classic mature, complex brunello: don't look for fruit. Instead expect subtle aromas of leather, cigar box and dried herbs. Full-bodied and smooth. Perfect for discussions about the latest developments in the field of astro physics. 165126 14% XD 750 mL  $39.95 Score: 93/100. August 18, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Due Torri Classico Amarone Della Valpolicella 2008, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Dark, rich and complex with black cherry liqueur concentration of flavour, yet dry. Great for hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2012-2019. 724740 15% D 750 mL  $39.95 Score: 93/100. August 18, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Ruffino Ducale Oro Riserva Chianti Classico 2007, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Juicy, nuanced and layered with luxurious dark fruit flavours. Drink: 2012-2016. 353201 13.50% XD 750 mL  $43.95 Score: 92/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Coopers Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is worth a try, especially if you want to get out of your white wine rut. This rendition for Cooper's Creek has a terrific and refreshing lemon zest finish. Drink: 2012-2014. 957407 13.50% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 90/100. February 2, 2013 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Southbank Chardonnay 2010, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: Staggeringly great for the price! Full-bodied, rich and generous with aromas of peach, pear, green apple and toasty oak. Drink: 2012-2015. 278523 14.50% D 750 mL  $17.95 Score: 89/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy great and refreshing! It's a burst of lemon sunshine on a cloudy day. Great food wine. Drink: 2012-2014. 677450 13.50% XD 750 mL  $20.95 Score: 90/100. September 29, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Cálem Colheita Single Vintage Sogevinus Btld. 2011 Tawny Port 1998, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: One of my favourite tawny port producers! This lovely toffee-rich, toasted almond wonder is a superb after-dinner drink or pair it with crème brûlée or biscotti. Drink: 2006-2017. 264259 20% S 750 mL  $25.95 Score: 92/100. April 14, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Quinta Do Infantado Ruby Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Smokin! Especially for this price. Rich and layered with lots of pleasure. Dark berry jam and happiness. Drink: 2012-2018. 979898 19.50% MS 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 90/100. May 12, 2012 Best Value Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Delaforce Corte Vintage Quinta And Vineyard Bottlers Vinhos Port 1997, D.O.C., Douro, Quinta Da Côrte, Portugal: Rich and complex with layers of dark plum and berry liqueur flavour. Superb after-dinner drink. Drink: 2008-2022. 199695 20% S 750 mL  $38.95 Score: 95/100. March 31, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Warre's Vintage Port 1983, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Lovely and ready to drink. Cherry menthol with gorgeous blackberry liqueur. Perfect for long, after-dinner discussions about world domination. Drink: 2012-2018. 161877 20% S 750 mL  $89.95 Score: 91/100. February 4, 2012 Top Rated Dessert Wine. Gorgeous Gift Wine Full Review
Quinta Da Garrida Reserva White 2010, D.O.C., Dão, Portugal: Pale white flowers on the nose, ultra dry lemon zest on the palate. Very refreshing and clean with a medium body. Intriguingly different. Drink: 2012-2015. 280594 13% D 750 mL  $14.95 Score: 87/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Newman's Celebrated Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Remarkable value for ruby port! Lovely richness and roundness, wonderful dessert wine with aromas of fresh=pressed raspberry jam and smoke. Drink: 2012-2028. 134908 20% S 750 mL  $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 21, 2012 Best Value Dessert Wine. Full Review
Fonseca Porto Bin No. 27 Reserve Fonseca Guimaraens Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Deep purple and black plums with blackberry liqueur. Full-bodied and rich: like the perfect live-out boyfriend. Drink: 2012-2017. 156877 20% S 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 89/100. June 9, 2012 Best Value Dessert Wine. Full Review
Quinta De Ventozelo Lbv Port 2007, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: Love it, and the price! Full-bodied and rich: terrific dessert wine. Black plums and black raspberry liqueur. Yum! Drink: 2012-2018. 274688 20% S 750 mL  $18.95 Score: 90/100. May 26, 2012 Best Value Dessert Wine. Full Review
Graham Beck Premier Cuvée Brut Blanc De Blancs 2007, W.O., Robertson, South Africa: Surely South Africa's best sparkling wine producer: this bubbly offers incredible complexity and depth with great refreshment as well. Lovely toasty notes with green apple brightness through its core. Yum! Drink: 2012-2015. 907568 12% XD 750 mL  $24.95 Score: 91/100. March 31, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Faustino V Tempranillo Rosado 2011, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: A robust and deeply satisfying rose, yet not heavy. Bone-dry and refreshing with gorgeous aromas of dark raspberries. Perfect. Drink: 2012-2014. 700534 13% XD 750 mL  $12.95 Score: 91/100. April 14, 2012 Top Rated Rosé Wine. Full Review
Freixenet Cordon Rosado Cava, Penedes, Spain: How festive is this pink bubbly? Aromas of ripe field raspberries tickle your note. Float a raspberry on top for an extra festive touch. Drink: 2014-2016. 217059 11.50% XD 750 mL  $13.95 Score: 88/100. August 15, 2014 Favorite Sparkling Wine. Enchanting Feta Cheese Wine Full Review
Baron De Ley Rosé 2010, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: Ernest Hemingway’s affection for Spain is well known, but perhaps less well known was his love of rosado, Spain’s rosé wine. Baron de Ley’s 2010 rosé offers aromas of ripe strawberry, cranberry and leather. Fresh and clean on the palate with exuberant fruit. Structured and medium bodied, this versatile wine will go very well with antipasto or as the ideal back patio sipper to accompany you as you peruse your Hemingway collection. My note: Love this one! Old World dustiness washed away with refreshing bone-dry crispness and a bed of ripe raspberries. Drink: 2011-2013. 117283 13.50% XD 750 mL  $13.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated Rosé. Full Review
Pardevalles Prieto Picudo Rosado 2011, D.O., Tierra De León, Spain: Perfumed rose petals and strawberry jam. Dry, mouth-watering and delicious. Drink: 2012-2014. 274449 13.50% XD 750 mL  $12.95 Score: 88/100. August 4, 2012 Best Value Rosé. Full Review
McManis Viognier 2011, California, United States: Very aromatic and vibrant with lots of welcomed acidity. Floral with peach blossom and bone dry finish. Drink: 2012-2016. 658112 13.50% D 750 mL  $20.95 Score: 92/100. August 4, 2012 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Frank Family Zinfandel 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Lovely, succulent and endless savoury! Ripe fleshy berries yet not sweet. Full-bodied and ultra-smooth. One of the best zinfandels I've tried. Drink: 2012-2016. 278283 15% D 750 mL  $59.00 Score: 94/100. August 4, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Kenwood Vineyards Chardonnay 2010, Sonoma County, California, United States: Classic Californian Chardonnay with generous oak giving toffee, butterscotch and caramel flavours and aromas. Green apple and peach fruit follow. Full-bodied and luscious. Drink: 2012-2015. 158790 13.50% D 750 mL  $18.95 Score: 89/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Folie à Deux Ménage à Trois Rosé 2011, California, United States: Dry and pretty with aromas of rose petal and small strawberries. Drink: 2012-2013. 120220 13.50% M 750 mL  $17.95 Score: 87/100. July 21, 2012 Best Value Rosé. Full Review
Francis Ford Coppola Sofia Domino Blanc De Blancs 2011, Monterey County, California, United States: Floral and pretty almost moscato like and floral like a fritz torrontes. Terrific price. Drink: 2012-2014. 552091 12% D 750 mL  $31.75 Score: 89/100. August 18, 2012 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Argyle Brut Sparkling Wine 2007, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Terrific New World bubbly! Toasty and vibrant with lovely white peach notes. Perfect for weddings and other get-togethers. Drink: 2012-2015. 258160 12.50% XD 750 mL  $35.25 Score: 90/100. February 4, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Mumm Méthode Traditionnelle Sparkling Rosé, Napa Valley, California, United States: Loving this! Terrific aromas of raspberries and toast. Perfect for parties and celebrations. Drink: 2012-2015. 205641 12.50% D 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 90/100. March 17, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Sbragia Monte Rosso Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: Savoury and black as night and just as mysterious and alluring. Gorgeous depth of fleshy dark plums and berries with a polished edge of toasty oak. Drink: 2012-2017. 291054 14.90% D 750 mL  $54.95 Score: 93/100. August 18, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Roederer Estate L'ermitage Brut Sparkling Wine 2003, Anderson Valley, California, United States: Always a spectacular bubbly: this one is no exception. I find it also over-delivers well above its price point in complexity, depth, quality and overall taste. Superb! Drink: 2012-2016. 183392 12% XD 750 mL  $54.95 Score: 95/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Stags' Leap Winery Petite Sirah 2008, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied and savoury with a different kick. Spicy exotic black fruit. Complex and different. Drink: 2012-2015. 590356 14.30% D 750 mL  $60.95 Score: 91/100. September 15, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

© 2024 Natalie MacLean