Vintages Wine Picks November 8, 2008

by Natalie MacLean

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[ Compress ] White Wine

Bodega Catena Zapata Chardonnay 2006, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: Always a great value, Catena’s Chardonnay is a luscious offering with ripe flavours of peaches, pears and apples as well as toasty oak and spice notes. Full-bodied, round and buttery, it’s nevertheless well-balanced by a seam of acidity. My note: A luxurious Chardonnay packed with ginger, apple, vanilla, smoke and butter notes. Full-bodied. Drink: 2008-2012. 918805 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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Genetin Sauvignon Blanc 2006, A.C. Pouilly Fume, France: Vintages Wine Panel: The name Genetin harkens back to an ancient grape called Muscat Genetin, which eventually evolved into Sauvignon Blanc. This wine features classic aromas of gooseberry, lemon and mineral notes leading to a medium-bodied, juicy textured palate. My note: Fresh, zesty and refreshing. Melon and grapefruit notes on this Sauvignon blanc-based white. 653154 12% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. November 8, 2008
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Antonin Rodet Chardonnay 2006, A.C. Puligny Montrachet, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Known as one of Burgundy’s great negoçiant houses, Antonin Rodet was founded in 1875. The secret to their ongoing success has been the close relationship they forge with growers to ensure quality across their portfolio. This Puligny-Montrachet is dry, full-bodied with layers of lemon, spice, and almond notes leading to a long toasty finish. My note: A gorgeous, round, rich Chardonnay with notes of green apples, pears and vanilla. Drink: 2008-2012. 84541 14% XD 750 mL $53.95 Score: 94/100. November 8, 2008 Favorite White Wine.
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Dr. H. Thanisch Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Kabinett 2004, Q.M.P., Germany: Terrific acidity with ripe apricot and citrus fruit notes. Drink: 2008-2020. 85076 8% MD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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Astonlabe Wines Ltd. Sauvignon Blanc 2007, Marlborough, New Zealand: Grassy goodness with a lively herbal backbone. Vibrant notes of green peas and asparagus. Eat (drink) your vegetables! Closed with a screwcap. Drink: 2008-2012. 10421 13% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. November 8, 2008
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Quinta Da Alorna Arinto Chardonnay 2006, Vinhos, Portugal: Vintages Wine Panel: This is a blend of Chardonnay and the native Portuguese variety Arinto, which adds fine acidity and a citrus quality to the wine. Crisp and refreshing, it features pineapple and lemon characteristics, as well as hints of floral, spice, and vanilla. My note: A zesty, balanced white that delivers grassy notes without needing to get out your lawnmower. Drink: 2008-2012. 81505 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. November 8, 2008 Best Value White.
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Conde de Valdemar Macabeo 2006, D.O.C.A., Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: Made from the Spain’s popular Viura grape, (aka Macabeo), this light and fruity white possesses notes of white flower, yellow fruit, melon, and oak/spice hints. Crisp and fresh, it has excellent length. My note: A refreshing, nervy white with white peaches and limes. 80952 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. November 8, 2008
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Chalone Vineyard Chardonnay 2005, California, United States: A pear-ripe Chardonnay with green apples and buttery undertones. Full-bodied, rich and creamy. Drink: 2008-2012. 80226 14% D 750 mL $36.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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[ Compress ] Red Wine

Amancaya Gran Reserva Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: Amancaya is the second wine of Bodegas Caro, a co-production between Domaines Barons de Rothschild-Lafite and the Catena family. Full-bodied and dense, this youthful blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon is packed with blackberry, black cherry and pretty floral notes. It’s dry, with firm tannins and fresh acidity providing structure. My note: A juicy, savory red with blackcurrant and cassis. Full-bodied. Decant for two hours. Drink: 2008-2012. 16097 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. November 8, 2008
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Dona Paula Estate Malbec 2006, Mendoza, Argentina: A pleasing, delicious, lip-smacking red with dark plums and spice aromas. Full-bodied. 661819 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. November 8, 2008
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La Posta Angel Paulucci Vineyard Malbec 2006, Mendoza, Argentina: A simple, delicious wine with purple plum and berry notes. Medium-bodied. Drink: 2008-2012. 75515 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. November 8, 2008
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Penfolds St. Henri Vineyard Shiraz 2004, Australia: A beautifully structured, supple, and full-bodied Shiraz with notes of blackberry and smoke. Long-lived the terrific balance. 510875 14% XD 750 mL $63.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2008
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Torbeck The Steading Grenache Blend 2005, Barossa Valley, Australia: A blend of a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Mataro, and 20% Shiraz. chewy, rich, savory wine redolent of bacon, blackberry, pepper, black cherry and garrigue. Full-bodied. Drink: 2008-2018. 723890 14% D 750 mL $48.95 Score: 94/100. November 8, 2008 Tie Favorite Red Wine.
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Grant Burge Miamba Shiraz 2006, Barossa Valley, Australia: A rich, mouth-watering wine filled with black plums, berries and smoke. Savory and full-bodied. Closed with a screwcap. Drink: 2008-2012. 725127 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. November 8, 2008
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Torbeck Woodcutter's Shiraz 2006, Barossa Valley, Australia: A full-bodied beauty of remarkable length and depth. This wine keeps talking long after you've run out of things to say. Blackberry, blueberry, spice, pepper and tobacco notes. Drink: 2008-2016. 927533 14% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2008
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Jackson-Triggs Delaine Vineyard Syrah 2005, V.Q.A. Niagara Peninsula, Canada: A stunning wine with incredible depth and length. Notes of black plums, coffee, leather and smoke. Drink: 2008-2015. 86553 12% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. November 8, 2008
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Chateau de Pez Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2005, A.C. Bordeaux, France: A classic Bordeaux with boarding school breeding. Good bones, nice diction. Full-bodied with notes of cassis, smoke and black plums. Decant for two hours. Drink: 2008-2016. 102798 12% XD 750 mL $63.95 Score: 91/100. November 8, 2008
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Chateau Le Carillon Cabernet Sauvilgnon Blend 2005, A.C. Bordeaux, France: Nicely balanced and layered. Complex and satisfying. Full-bodied with notes of dark chocolate. Black plums and blackberries fill the glass. Drink: 2008-2012. 107664 14% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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Chante Cigale Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Blanc Syrah Blend 2005, A.C. Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhone, France: Black cherry liqueur with smoke, cedar, cassis, tobacco and leather aromas. Full-bodied, smooth with a vibrant long finish. Drink: 2008-2020. 43026 14% D 750 mL $41.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2008
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Coudoulet De Beaucastel Syrah Blend 2006, A.C. Rhone, France: A stand-out producer across the board and through the vintages. Full-bodied with black cherry, spice, pepper, garrigue and smoke notes. Drink: 2008-2012. 48884 14% XD 750 mL $30.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2008
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Louis Jadot Chateau Des Lumieres Morgon Beaujolais 2006, A.C., France: A smooth, medium-bodied wine with a velvet texture and ripe cherries with cedar notes. Great balance. Drink: 2008-2012. 653584 13% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 88/100. November 8, 2008
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Domaine Marc Roy Pinot Noir 2006, A.C. Burgundy, France: A highly aromatic wine with a heavy perfume of violets, field flowers, raspberries, smoke and cedar. Beautiful balance and length. 70185 14% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 91/100. November 8, 2008
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Cave De Tain Crozes Hermitage Fine Fleur De Crozes Syrah Blend 2005, A.C. Rhone, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This classic northern Rhône Syrah is specially selected by the winemaker and designed for early enjoyment. Barrel-aged and fermented, it’s deep ruby in color with aromas of blackcurrant, spice, mineral and toasty oak notes. It’s rich and silky with fresh black fruit flavours mingling with mineral notes, supportive acidity and smooth tannins. My note: A savory red with mouth-watering flavors of bacon, fat, black cherries, garrigue and smoke. Full-bodied and balanced. Drink: 2008-2016. 76380 12% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 93/100. November 8, 2008
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La Dame De Malescot Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2005, A.C. Bordeaux, France: A distinguished and subtle Bordeaux with a pleasant bitter finish. Blackcurrants, cassis and oak notes. Full-bodied. Drink: 2010-2016. 79269 14% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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Antonin Rodet Gevrey Chambertin Pinot Noir 2005, A.C. Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This Pinot Noir is from the outstanding 2005 vintage is highlighted by black cherry, blackberry, nutmeg and almond aromas. It offers depth and structure, with lots of fruit and well-balanced tannins on the palate. It’s noted for its earth, subtle wood and spice qualities and long fruit-filled finish. My note: A remarkably balanced and long wine with gorgeously smooth tannins and ripe cherries, mushrooms, violets and earth notes. Medium-bodied. Drink: 2008-2012. 84558 13% XD 750 mL $42.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2008
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Chateau Hauchat La Rose Merlot 2004, A.C., France: Vintages Wine Panel: This Merlot-based wine features lovely aromas of cassis, cherry and woodsmoke. The tannins are softening allowing the bright, fresh fruitiness to come to the front. My note: A rich and textured Bordeaux with mouth-watering flavors of black plums and berries. Smooth and full-bodied. Drink: 2008-2012. 86611 13% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. November 8, 2008
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Chateau Lilian Ladouys Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2003, A.C. Bordeaux, France: Lovely notes of cassis, blackcurrant, purple plums and a dash of black pepper. Nice integration of oak. Full-bodied. Drink: 2008-2018. 86827 12% XD 750 mL $35.95 Score: 91/100. November 8, 2008
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Chateau Du Tertre Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 1996, A.C. Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A fine, elegant Cab/Merlot blend that is hitting peak maturity. The nose is still quite vital featuring a combination of both dried and fresh red fruit with a lovely earthy/spicy undertone. A fine mouth-feel leads to a long, pleasant finish. My note: A smooth, simple but satisfying Bordeaux that's light- medium-bodied. Almost no perceptible tannins. Aromas of earth, cherries and faint leather. 87668 12% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. November 8, 2008
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Chateau Loudenne Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2001, A.C. Bordeaux, France: All the finesse and class of a Bordeaux twice the price. Lovely balance and length. Classic cassis, blackcurrant and smoke notes. Full-bodied. Drink: 2008-2013. 87718 12% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 91/100. November 8, 2008
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Chateau De L'estang Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2004, A.C. Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A fine wine featuring the aromatic signatures of traditional Bordeaux. Blackcurrant, bell pepper, blueberry, toast and game dominate. Dry with rich mid-palate. My note: A pleasantly bitter Bordeaux with blackcurrant and cassis. Full-bodied and tannic. Decant for two hours. Drink: 2008-2012. 92809 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. November 8, 2008
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Chateau Haut Monplaisir Malbec 2004, A.C. Prestige, France: A hulking, brooding black-fruited wine with full-bodied texture. Black plums and berry notes with a hint of black pepper. Drink: 2008-2012. 936534 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 88/100. November 8, 2008
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Château de Beaucastel Syrah Blend 2006, A.C. Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhone, France: A savory wine with notes of black cherry liqueur, bacon, leather, smoke and blackcurrants. Full-bodied. Drink: 2010-2015. 968750 14% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 93/100. November 8, 2008
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Terra D'Aligi Tatone Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2005, D.O.C., Italy: A gorgeous, full-bodied red with mouth-watering ripe red plums and raspberries, some smoke and savory notes. 994616 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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Remo Farina Classico Superiore Ripasso Amarone 2005, D.O.C., Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Ripasso or ‘re-passing’ involves fermenting the wine a second time on dried Amarone grapes. This process deepens the wine’s color, body, aroma, taste and ageability. Farina’s Ripasso features aromas of pepper spice, licorice, cherries, and ginger. My note: A savory, juicy wine that's full-bodied. Notes of ripe/tart cherries with some spice. 999946 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008 Best Value Red.
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Legaris Crianza Tempranillo 2004, D.O., Spain: A meaty, savory red with licorice, blackberries and pepper notes. Full-bodied, smooth and supple. Decant for one hour. 699736 14% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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Coto Real Grenache Tempranillo Reserva 2001, D.O.C.A., Spain: A mouth-watering, full-bodied red with black plums, cherries and smoke notes. Full-bodied with a great length. Drink: 2008-2015. 80341 14% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2008
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Duck Pond Pinot Noir 2006, Oregon, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: This bright Pinot is a terrific value from Oregon. It’s bursting with aromas and flavours of tart cherries, cranberry and raspberries as well as floral and earth notes. Crisply dry, medium bodied with a touch of spice. My note: Vibrant ripe cherry notes with a wonderfully lifted, bright mid-palate. Earth and cranberry aromas with a spice edge. Drink: 2008-2012. 427872 14% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. November 8, 2008
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7 Deadly Zins Zinfandel 2006, California, United States: A smoky, spicy number with delicious black fruit and berries. Zip and zing in this full-bodied red. Drink: 2008-2012. 59311 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. November 8, 2008
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Markham Cabernet Sauvignon 2002, Napa Valley, California, United States: A very well-balanced and solidly built Cabernet with classic notes of cassis and blackberry. Drink: 2008-2012. 67181 14% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 89/100. November 8, 2008
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Rodney Strong Wine Estates Pinot Noir Reserve 2006, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, United States: A gorgeously aromatic red with heavy bouquet of violets, ripe cherries, raspberries and a wisp of smoke. Medium- to full-bodied with a silky, seductive texture. 677690 15% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 94/100. November 8, 2008 Tie Favorite Red Wine.
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Calera Pinot Noir 2006, California, United States: One of the best Pinots from California: balanced, delicious and pedigreed. Gorgeous notes of ripe cherries, fresh earth, tea leaves and smoke. Medium-bodied, supple and seductive. Drink: 2008-2012. 933044 14% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. November 8, 2008
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Kenwood Vineyards Zinfandel 2006, Sonoma Country, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Kenwood prides itself on this consistent award-winning Zinfandel which they have produced since first opening their doors in 1970. It’s a straight-shooting Zinfandel that’s fruity but well-balanced. An excellent value, it’s a good place to start if you are new to Zinfandel. My note: A juicy, lip-smackin' delicious red with full-bodied flavors of brambleberry and blackberry. Some spice notes. Drink: 2008-2012. 983577 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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[ Compress ] Rosés

Chateau Lamothe De Haux Rosé 2007, A.C., France: Vintages Wine Panel: Regardless of where the grapes are sourced, AC Bordeaux Clairet is the only designation allowed for Bordelais rosés. From the 2007 vintage, this rosé is a blend of 50/50 Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. An excellent fall sipper, this crisp, raspberry-scented wine is perfect. My note: A light, pleasant rosé with ripe raspberry and strawberry notes. 684969 12% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. November 8, 2008 Best Value Rose.
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[ Compress ] Sparkling Wine

Deutz Champagne Classic Brut 2004, A.C. Champagne, France: A toasty, generous bubbly with notes of baked bread, green apples and orange peel. 710038 12% XD 750 mL $57.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2008 Favorite Sparkling.
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Taittinger Champagne Brut 2002, A.C. Champagne, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A lovely structure dominates this very young Champagne. Filled with aromas of pear, apples, bread dough and mineral, this is a champers that will amply reward cellaring. It is approachable now because of the classic gentle and creamy Taittinger style. My note: A classic bubbly leading with Chardonnay in the blend. Notes of green apples, toast and baked bread. Drink: 2010-2015. 989905 12% XD 750 mL $87.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008
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[ Compress ] Dessert Wine

Château Suau Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2005, A.C. Bordeaux, France: A lovely, concentrated elixir of honey, apricots, ripe pear and vanilla. Drink: 2008-2012. 86835 14% S 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. November 8, 2008 Favorite Dessert Wine.
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Quinta De Santa Eufemia 10 Year Old Tawny Port 1998, Douro, Portugal: A solid and pleasing port with orange peel, almond and coffee aromas. 87528 20% S 750 mL $27.95 Score: 89/100. November 8, 2008
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Vintages Wine Picks November 8, 2008

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