Vintages Wine Picks April 16, 2011

by Natalie MacLean

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[ Compress ] White Wine

Rolling Cumulus Wines Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2009, Central Ranges, New South Wales, Australia: Simple and tasty with refreshing lime and chive flavours. Drink: 2011-2013. 678821 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. April 16, 2011
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Weingut Müller Neubergen Riesling 2009, D.A.C., Kremstal, Austria: Big dry Riesling with searing, mouth-watering acidity for food. Lime, chives and green apples. Bright, vibrant wine that will cut through creamy cheeses and cream sauces like a knife. Drink: 2011-2017. 211060 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Huff Estates Winery Reserve Riesling 2008, V.Q.A., Ontario, Canada: I adore the petrol, mineral aroma/texture here! This is simply amazing Riesling. Some ripe tree fruit but the something extra really is in the forefront. Call it complexity, zip, length. Buy a case. Drink: 2011-2018. 223982 12.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite White Wine.
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Malivoire Gewürztraminer 2009, V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Tones of lotus flower, lychee, rose petal and exotic spices on the nose. The palate is off-dry, medium bodied and delivers great acidity and classic Gewürz bitterness. This closes out with a spicy edge to the medium-length, fresh and fruity finish. A great pairing for salmon in a light cream sauce. My note: Love this style of gewurz! Enticing aromas of lychee, rose petal, baking spices and happiness. Medium- to almost full-bodied. A spectacular wine. Oh my, oh my. Drink: 2011-2016. 542522 12.50% MD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite White Wine.
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Mike Weir Wine Sauvignon Blanc 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: With its concentrated aromas of grass, mineral, lemon and grapefruit, ripe tropical and citrus flavours, and crisp finish, this homegrown Savvy makes an ideal aperitif but will also deliciously enhance a pan-fried fresh fish – especially with a lemon-butter sauce. My note: Zingy, zesty notes of lime, lemon and white grapefruit. Terrific refreshment with mouth-watering juiciness. Perfect for so many dishes. Drink: 2011-2014. 686972 12.80% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Featherstone Winery & Vineyard Black Sheep Riesling 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: So beautiful! This riesling has it all: juicy, peach and lime aromas, balance, complexity, length and lambs. (That was a baaaaah-d joke, I know.) Medium-bodied and packed with flavour. These folks are Riesling Masters: Ka-pow! Drink: 2011-2016. 80234 11% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite White Wine.
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Domaine Cordaillat Reuilly 2009, A.C., Loire, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Pale platinum-yellow colour leads to an expressive nose of Asian pear, melon, mineral, asparagus and artichoke. Dry, fresh, fruity and vibrant. Stylistically it embraces both the Loire and New Zealand schools. Zippy acids really bring zest to this fairly long-finishing wine. A great palate-refresher. My note : Mouth-watering lemon and lime notes with some herbs but not too grassy. Fresh and clean without much oak. Medium-bodied and food friendly. Drink: 2011-2015. 202432 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Pierre Sparr Réserve Gewurztraminer 2008, A.C., Alsace, France: Vintages Wine Panel: With its nose of lychee, ripe citrus, rose petal, and spice, this wine is an excellent introduction to Alsatian Gewurz. The palate echoes these wonderfully characteristic Gewurz qualities. Dry with a balanced and zesty acidity and a good length. This is would make an excellent aperitif wine. My note: Made by a master! Lovely concentration of lychee, rose petal aromas Drink: 2011-2017. 747600 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 93/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value White Wine.
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Dal Cero Pinot Grigio 2009, I.G.T., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: A nuttier style of Pinot Grigio with delicate aromas of apple, pear and citrus along with hazelnut and almond. Buttery and pleasant, it is dry, with nice fruit and a good length. An excellent value wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of foods. My note: Refreshing, clean and crisp with no heavy oak and buttery notes. Great aperitif. Drink: 2011-2014. 161661 12.50% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value White Wine.
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Giesen Wine Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2009, The Brothers Land, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A come-alive nose with fresh notes of lime, grass and chives. Wake-up your senses. Good mouth-watering acidity. Drink: 2011-2014. 223180 12.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value White Wine.
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Jules Taylor Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Fantastic! Love the lifted citrus-lime style of New Zealand sauvignon blanc rather than the grassier versions. This is lovely, with mouth-watering acidity and ultra-refreshment. Drink: 2011-2014. 224428 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value White Wine.
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Eradus Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Herbal and wonderful with grassy refreshment. Great mouth-watering action. So food friendly. Drink: 2011-2015. 225557 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value White Wine.
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Seresin Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: White grapefruit, lime and grass with mouth-watering acidity. Great refreshment as an aperitif or companion to many dishes. Drink: 2011-2014. 735043 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite White Wine.
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Momo Seresin Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Lightly grassy and herbal with give mouth-watering acidity. Fresh and fun. A great bottle to crack open on a spring or summer day. Drink: 2011-2013. 9167 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011
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Blackstone Winery Sonoma Reserve Chardonnay 2007, Sonoma County, California, United States: Such a beautiful Chardonnay: this is what I love in Californian Chardonnay when I find it. Buttery with ripe peaches and pears yet balanced with great length. This is a blend of grapes from Carneros, Russian River Valley, and Sonoma Coast. Drink: 2011-2015. 128926 14.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011
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Grgich Hills Estate Fumé Blanc 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Extremely well-made sauvignon blanc form biodynamically farmed grapes. Lovely lemon and lime aromas with terrific balance and length. One of California’s best sauvignon blancs. Drink: 2011-2017. 346296 14.30% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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[ Compress ] Red Wine

Luigi Bosca Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Maipü, Mendoza, Argentina: Smooth as velvet and wonderful aromas of black plums and dark spices. Full-bodied and supremely satisfying. Serve this to your boss and get promoted. Drink: 2011-2018. 128629 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Passion Reserve Valentin Bianchi Malbec 2008, San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: The world is certainly passionate about Argentine Malbec, and really, can you blame us? Here is another excellent example of what all the noise is about. Crowd-pleasing, flavour-packed, and beautifully structured, textured and balanced, this wine is simply bursting with flair. My note: Lip-smacking tasty with big juicy purple plums, fleshy blueberries and just enough oak. An upfront wine that pulls no punches. Drink: 2011-2014. 191775 14.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Urraca Malbec 2008, Agrelo, Mendoza, Argentina: A solid, full-bodied red with black fruit, smoke, oak and some tarriness. Smooth but could use 1-2 hours decanting. Dried figs and some prune. Drink: 2011-2013. 214379 14.80% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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St. Huberts Pinot Noir 2008, Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia: Love that combination of fleshy ripe cherries and raspberries with a pleasant bitterness and acidity to balance it perfectly. Medium-bodied and smooth. Maximum pleasure. Drink: 2011-2017. 221861 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. April 16, 2011
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Oscar's Estate Vineyard Shiraz 2008, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: A wonderfully robust and intriguing nose of blackberry jam, caramel, cocoa and a touch of toasted coconut. The palate is dry, with nice fruit and a plush texture. This is a real crowd-pleaser of a wine. A nice addition to a casual gathering. My note: Jammy-lovely: blackberry pie in a glass! Dry but packed with flavour. Full-bodied with layers of pleasure that lap over your senses. Drink: 2011-2016. 225631 15.20% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Wolf Blass Gold Label Shiraz 2008, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Superbly crafted with big ripe blackberries and black plums. A strong, but balanced, smoky weave. Savoury and delicious. A strong performer year after year. Drink: 2011-2016. 590273 15% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Kilikanoon Covenant Shiraz 2007, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Minty blackberry with juicy mouth-watering acidity. Full-bodied and smooth with a good finish. Drink: 2011-2015. 674747 14.50% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite Red Wine.
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Palatine Hills Estate Winery Proprietors Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara Lakeshore, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: An intensely characterful wine reminiscent of the Bordeaux style. The nose and palate are wonderfully complex with notes of blackberry, red plum and vanilla. Enjoy this robust and savoury wine. My note: A pleasant sipper with mocha-blackberry nose. Full-bodied and smooth with some dried herbs and smoke on the finish. Drink: 2011-2015. 121699 12.80% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Le Clos Jordanne La Petite Colline Pinot Noir 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Twenty Mile Bench, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Aromas of rose petals, raspberry, humus, and mocha. Dry and fresh with fruit still underneath waiting to unfold as it ages (allow 1-3 years). Fairly lengthy finish. Try it. Very Burgundian in style. My note: An intoxicatingly exotic perfume wafts up from the glass. This vineyard is only 3.25 hectares. The wine offers lovely aromas of fresh cherry, mocha, earth. Silky smooth and medium-bodied. Drink: 2011-2016. 33944 12.50% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite Red Wine.
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Valdivieso Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Central Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: Valdivieso released its first wines in 1887. With its dark red colour and its ripe, juicy flavour – and as you would expect from a producer with 124 years of experience – this wine is an excellent example of a Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon. My note: Solid, tasty, full-bodied red with dark berries and some meaty notes. Drink: 2011-2013. 32110 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Caliterra Tributo Carmenère 2009, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: Caliterra was established in 1996 as a partnership between the Robert Mondavi family and Viña Errázuriz. Viña Erráruriz acquired the Mondavi share in 2004. The name Caliterra is a combination of the words calidad (quality) and tierra (land). This is a deliciously lush wine with layers of sweet dark fruit, nice structure and a seam of acidity keeping everything in balance. My note: Superb value for the money! Rich, savoury dark berries and plums. Nice juiciness and full-bodied weight. Drink: 2011-2014. 56630 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Domaine De La Ville Rouge Inspiration Crozes-Hermitage Syrah Blend 2007, A.C., Rhône, France: Very purple plum and blueberry. Juicy and full-bodied with layers of rich, ripe fruit flavour. Drink: 2011-2014. 194837 12.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Cave Des Vignerons De Bel Air Beaujolais-Villages Gamay 2009, A.C., Beaujolais, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2010 Concours Général Agricole in Paris. Translucent purple, with bright strawberry, cherry, pepper, and a lifting violet character on the nose. The palate is dry, with a crisp acidity and nicely integrated fruit carried through the medium-long finish. A superb value, this will work with a variety of lighter meats. My note: Juicy, generous wine with just the right amount of mouth-watering acidity. Ripe blueberries and tart cherries. Smooth and ready to dance with so many dishes. Drink: 2011-2014. 208058 12.50% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. April 16, 2011
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Laurence Féraud Séguret Sélection Grenache Syrah 2008, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah. It features pretty aromas of baked berry pie, spice cupboard, garrigue and vanilla tones. Medium to full-bodied with bright acidity and lovely fruit. A delicious wine to drink over the next 2-4 years. It may be enjoyed tonight. My note: Vibrant peppery aromas and dark red fruit. Full-bodied and smooth and lovely juicy, mouth-watering action. Perfect for lots of meat dishes. Love this style. Fancy label makes it an expensive-looking gift wine that lives up to its promise. Drink: 2011-2016. 211482 13.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Château Gigognan Vigne Du Régent Grenache Syrah 2007, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Wow! Drop-dead gorgeous. Full-bodied with generous aromas of black fruit and oak. Liqueur-like richness, though it’s dry. Suitable for rich meat dishes and perfect for dinner parties. Spectacular! Drink: 2011-2020. 219899 15.50% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 94/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite Red Wine.
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Cave de Rasteau La Domelière Rasteau Syrah Blend 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: Savoury meaty notes, ripe black cherry, smoke and happiness on the nose. Full-bodied, plush and smooth in the mouth. Goes on and on with a long finish. Stunning for the price. Drink: 2011-2014. 222927 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Mas Des Dames La Dame 2008, A.C., Côteaux De Languedoc, Midi, France: Black raspberry liqueur with rich layers of full-bodied flavour. Some anise and dark spices. Savoury and lip-smacking yummy! Drink: 2011-2014. 223214 13.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Château Saint-André Corbin Vign. Jean-Bernard Saby & Fils Merlot 2008, A.C., St-Georges-St-Émilion, Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2010 Concours Général Agricole in Paris. This elegant Merlot-based wine features aromas and flavours of black cherry, mint, anise and menthol. Dry, with lots of fruit up front, in synch with balanced acidity and ripe tannins. Age it for up to 10 years. My note: Mocha-toasty oak on the nose with black fruit and smoke. Very New World style of a merlot-cabernet blend. Full-bodied and smooth. Terrific for dinner parties. Drink: 2011-2016. 43810 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011
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Domaine De La Casenove La Garrigue Etienne Montès, Prop.-Récolt Carignan Grenache Mourvedre 2006, Vin De Pays Des Côtes Catalanes, Midi, France: Big black plum and dark spice notes. Full-bodied with some tannic grip so decant for 1-2 hours. Mouth-watering and scrumptious. Drink: 2011-2014. 956888 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011
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Perrin & Fils L'andéol Grenache Syrah 2008, A.C., Rasteau, Côtes Du Rhone-Villages, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A blend of approximately 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah. The Perrins want to let the bright fruit flavours and aromas in the wine come through, so they give only about 20% of the wines any oak treatment. Fresh cherry, pepper and blackberry aromas dominate. Clean and flavourful, this vibrant wine can be aged 2-3 years, but is designed for current consumption. My note: Savoury, dark and delicious with aromas of cedar, black cherry and black plum. Smooth and ready to drink now, though it’ll also do well in the cellar. Drink: 2011-2016. 976845 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Villa Matilde Rocca Dei Leoni Aglianico 2007, I.G.T., Campania, Italy: Savory, heart-warming and delicious! Rich aromas of black cherry, dark spices, dried herbs. Smooth and full-bodied but will also do well in the cellar. Terrific value for the money. Excellent dinner party wine. Drink: 2011-2018. 165035 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011
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Valiano Riserva Chianti Classico 2005, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Lovely juiciness and savoury character with black cherries and blackberries. This wine goes down slippery-fast: the type of wine where you’re chatting and then look at your glass and wonder who drank it when you weren’t looking. Top me up! Drink: 2011-2015. 211706 13.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Ca Del Baio Asili Barbaresco 2007, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Tart and expressive with vibrant notes of tart cherries, violets and some smoke. Full-bodied and smooth though decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2011-2020. 213066 14% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Monte Del Frá Tenuta Lena Di Mezzo Classico Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006, D.O.C, Veneto, Italy: Chocolate-mocha nose with fleshy ripe blackberries and dark spices. Full-bodied and smooth. Black cherry liqueur runs through the heart of this wine that has terrific length. Drink: 2011-2015. 47506 15% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011
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Allegrini La Grola Corvina 2006, I.G.T., Veronese, Veneto, Italy: Savory and juicy, with straight-forward, full-bodied pleasure. Dark fruit, oak and some spices. Drink: 2011-2015. 476598 13.50% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Pichierri Tradizione Del Nonno Primitivo Di Manduria 2007, D.O.C., Puglia, Italy: Smells like port because the fruit is so ripe, almost raisined with rich mocha-dark chocolate notes. The alcohol is high yet the wine is balanced and big. Drink it with a brontosaurus steak, preferably freshly killed. Drink: 2011-2015. 718130 16% MD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011
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Apollonio Valle Cupa Negroamaro Primitivo 2004, I.G.T., Salento, Puglia, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine has won numerous awards at international wine competitions, including a Gold at the 2010 Concours Mondial in Brussels. It is a rich yet rugged 50/50 blend of Negroamaro and Primitivo. This producer usually releases its wines later than the norm so that the wines are at or near their optimal drinking window when they come to the market. The wine is filled with blackberry, plum and earth aromas and flavours. Dry and quite mouth-filling, with good structure. Enjoy it tonight or age it up to five years more. My note: Black cherry and blackberry liqueur richness with mocha and a little dark spice. Layers and layers of flavour. Full-bodied squared. Drink: 2011-2016. 84046 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011
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Amisfield Pinot Noir 2008, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Ripe, fleshy cherries and raspberries wrapped in just the right amount of oak. Medium-bodied, plush and smooth. Drink: 2011-2018. 179754 14% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 94/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite Red Wine.
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Staete Landt Pinot Noir 2008, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Spring in a bottle: fresh and vibrant with the first field-fresh strawberries in the aromas. Medium-bodied and silky smooth. So very easy to drink. An Eat, Pray, Drink kinda wine. Drink: 2011-2016. 214833 14% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011
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Lone Kauri Reserve Pinot Noir 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Classy Marlborough Pinot with aromas of strawberry-rhubarb, black cherry and woodsmoke. Dry, fruity, ripe and round with a touch of crispness for balance. Flavourful, and ready to drink. A prime Pinot. My note: Superb for the money! Black raspberries, strawberries and rhubarb. Satin smooth and medium- to full-bodied. Drink: 2011-2016. 214858 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Ant Moore Pinot Noir 2009, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Ant Moore isn’t a fanciful moniker; it’s the real name of the owner/winemaker. Australian-born Moore controls every aspect of the wine-making, from the vineyards to bottling the finished wines. Complex and aromatic Otago Pinot with aromas of spring flowers, cherry, plum, earth and vanilla. Dry with a wonderful balance between the fruit, acidity and moderate tannins. Good ageing potential (3-5+ years). My note: Savory dark cherry flavour with some dark spices. Good richness on the palate with balancing acidity. Drink: 2011-2015. 220657 13.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011
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Kim Crawford Merlot 2009, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: Love this style of merlot as it’s savoury and mouth-watering, and definitely not bland. Lovely plush, fleshy black and purple plums and berries. Smooth with nice length. Well-done Kim! Drink: 2011-2015. 680967 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011
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Carrick Pinot Noir 2007, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: A luscious wine with fleshy black cherries and some baking spice. Medium- to full-bodied with velvet smooth. Great length and satisfaction. Drink: 2011-2015. 919837 13.50% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011
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Encostas De Estremoz Quinta Da Esperança 2005, Alentejano, Portugal: Winner of a Gold Medal at Sélections Mondiales des Vins Canada 2009. This blend of local Portuguese grapes offers fantastic value! Full-bodied with black fruit, smoke, pepper and dark spices. Perfect for potluck gatherings. Drink: 2011-2014. 160465 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011
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Delheim Shiraz 2007, W.O., Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, South Africa: Juicy, mouth-watering purple plums, blackberries and blueberries. A lovely weave of oak runs through it with full-bodied, smooth layers of flavour. Drink: 2011-2014. 959080 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011
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Bodegas Altanza Lealtanza Crianza Tempranillo 2006, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Straight-forward, rustic pleasure with aromas of dark red fruit, smoke and cedar. Full-bodied and smooth. Perfect for book club get-togethers. Drink: 2011-2015. 114835 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Baronia Del Montsant Flor D'englora Roure Garnacha Carinena 2009, D.O., Montsant, Spain: A juicy, purple plum-infused wine with mouth-watering notes of tart blackberries. Rich, smooth and full-bodied. Fantastic for the price. Drink: 2011-2014. 210989 13.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011
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Hijos De Antonio Barceló Viña Mayor Crianza 2006, D.O., Ribera Del Duero, Spain: A solid, well-made Crianza with dark red fruit, some mocha and dried prune. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2011-2014. 343426 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. April 16, 2011
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Bodegas Ontañón Reserva Tempranillo Graciano 2004, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: A savoury allure that draws you head-first into the glass. Brooding dark red and black berries with meaty notes. Juicy and full-bodied. This wine is a blend of Tempranillo (95%) and Graciano (5%). Superb craftsmanship! Drink: 2011-2018. 725895 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Grove Street Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Sonoma County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Over the past twenty years, Grove Street has played an important role in putting Sonoma on the global wine map. This impressive Cabernet shows why they’ve been so successful. Deep ruby in the glass, it’s busting with blueberry, blackberry, black cherry, plum and cocoa. Finely structured and balanced, this superb effort offers incredible value. Try it tonight. My note: A pleasant, full-bodied red with dark fruit aromas, oak and good acidity. Drink: 2011-2014. 161190 15.40% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. April 16, 2011
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Hogue Cellars Reserve Merlot 2006, Wahluke Slope, Washington State, United States: Big, black and beautiful! Jammy-ripe with blackberries and fleshy dark plums. Full-bodied and juicy. Drink: 2011-2015. 220491 15.40% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-on mocha-dark chocolate note with fleshy blackberries underneath. Full-bodied and smooth with lapping layers of dark fruit flavour. Drink: 2011-2017. 222877 15.20% XD 750 mL $69.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011
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Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Sonoma, Napa, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: A perennial favourite with Vintages customers, K-J’s Vintner’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon seems to get better with every vintage, and the 2008 has no intention of letting the side down. Elegant with cherry, cassis, cedar and cocoa aromas, it’s dry and medium bodied on the palate, with fresh fruit flavours and ripe tannins. Delicious. This will also reward 2-3 years in the cellar. My note: A consistently good producer with nice balance and flavour of dark berries and other fruit. Judicious use of oak. Drink: 2011-2015. 331603 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. April 16, 2011
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Ironstone Old Vine Zinfandel 2009, Lodi, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Ironstone creates a fruit-forward, crowd-pleasing Zinfandel rich in blackberry and blueberry notes. Medium bodied, dry, soft and round, with a lingering finish. Superb value. My note: Classic Californian Zinfandel! Love it: brambleberry, blueberry and blackberry pie. Smooth and full-bodied and ultra-juicy. Slather it on! Drink: 2011-2015. 951889 14.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011
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Robert Mondavi Merlot 2006, Napa Valley, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine is a blends a core of 76% Merlot with 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec, 3% Syrah and 3% Cabernet Franc. It has fascinating aromas of currant, espresso, anise and black cherry. Fairly robust with very good aroma replays. It has the stuff to last 2-4 years. My note: Superbly balanced and elegant wine with full-bodied aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and black plum. Smoky and long on the finish and satisfaction. Drink: 2011-2017. 953562 15% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011
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Cambria Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008, Central Coast, Santa Maria Valley, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Medium ruby in the glass, with deep and intriguing aromas of sour cherry, cola, earth, plum and woodsmoke. Showing good structure, the wine is dry and medium bodied, fruity and smoky, with bright acidity and silky, ripe tannins. Lovely balance throughout the medium-long finish. My note: Gorgeous dried herbs, fleshy cherries and earth in this medium-bodied, silky number. Drink: 2011-2017. 980482 14.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. April 16, 2011
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[ Compress ] Rosés

Tawse Winery Inc. Sketches Of Niagara Gamay Pinot Noir 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Superb! Savoury and juicy with lovely notes of field strawberries. Zippy with sunlit-infused happiness. Perfect for a picnic, even indoors. Drink: 2011-2013. 172643 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Rose.
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Château De Fonscolombe Cuvée Spéciale Rosé 2010, A.C., Côteaux D'aix-En-Provence, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Provence is famous for its rosés, and Château de Fonloscombe is one of the region’s most respected producers. Aromas suggest plum, strawberry, peach and candied fruit. A dry, medium-bodied wine that’s fresh on the palate, with good length. My note: Lovely! Redolent of fresh field strawberries and a summer sunshine. Light and flavourful with just the right touch of acidity. Perfect as an aperitif or food companion to many dishes. Drink: 2011-2013. 180851 12.90% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Rose.
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Château Val Joanis Tradition Chancel Family, Prop.-Récolt. Syrah Rosé 2010, A.C., Luberon, Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Pale salmon-pink with lively aromas of spring flowers, strawberry and cherry. Dry, medium bodied and with plenty of mouthwatering acidity. There is also a touch of tannic influence that adds nice balance. Lovely tangy red fruit flavours with floral and herbal notes. Beautifully refreshing with a substantial finish. Perfect as a sipper. My note: I want it! Goodness gracious, this is fantastic for the money! Fresh strawberries and field berries. Perfectly balanced and refreshing. Drink: 2011-2013. 707281 12.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite Rose.
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[ Compress ] Sparkling Wine

Lacourte-Godbillon Brut Champagne Pinot Noir Chardonnay 2002, A.C., Champagne, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Lacourte-Godbillon has been making award-winning Champagnes for over four generations. Nevertheless, its wines are new to this market – and should not be missed. The blend in this vintage bubbly is 50/50 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The nose suggests pear, yellow plum and buttered brioche. On the palate, these aromas replay beautifully. The mousse is fine and robust, giving the body very good support. A great champers for flavourful seafood dishes. My note: So creamy and toasty: love it! Green apple and almond, with lots of complexity. Great price. Drink: 2011-2015. 211052 12% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 91/100. April 16, 2011 Favourite Sparkling Wine.
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Poderi Elia Moscato D'asti 2009, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Floral tones float delicately atop notes of sweet peaches, apricot and tangerine. The palate is medium-sweet with good crisp acidity, nice fruit and a lively medium-long finish. My note: Simply lovely! I adore this wine and style almost no matter who makes it. Slightly fizzy and orange blossom slightly sweet, it is a wonder. Try it! Drink: 2011-2013. 211664 5.50% MS 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Sparkling Wine.
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Raventós I Blanc L'hereu Reserva Brut Cava 2007, D.O., Penedès, Spain: A solid-working bubbly for large parties. Toasty and crisp. Delivers as expected at this price point. Drink: 2011-2014. 221796 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. April 16, 2011
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[ Compress ] Dessert Wine

Messias Late Bottled Vintage Btld. 2010 Port 2005, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Vintages Wine Panel: A fine Port featuring spot-on aromas of raisin, dark chocolate, very ripe plum and a hint of prune. Sweet, round and ripe with just enough acidity for balance, preventing it from being cloying. A superb LBV for the classic pairings of blue cheese or nuts. My note: Love it! Blackberry jam and plum preserves. Smooth and full-bodied. 140863 MS 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Dessert Wine.
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Quinta Do Castelinho 10 Year Old Tawny Touriga Nacional Tinta Roriz, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Vintages Wine Panel: Quinta do Castelinho is one of the Douro’s oldest properties. They produce this fine Port from their best vineyards. The blend, aged 10 years in barrel, is Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca and Touriga Franca. This Port is filled with dried fruits, mocha and vanilla aromas and flavours. Enjoy it as an after-dinner sipper. No decanting is required. My note: Wonderful concentration with some toffee and nuts. I love it and what an amazing price. Drink: 2011-2016. 198952 20% S 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. April 16, 2011 Best Value Dessert Wine.
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Vintages Wine Picks April 16, 2011

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