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Values Wine Picks July 15, 2008

by Natalie MacLean


Print Wine Picks


Note: Four times a year, I publish reviews that I call Good Values Wine Picks. These are from the regular section of the liquor store rather than the Vintages section, tend to be lower priced and the most widely available of all wines. The last four reviews I did were: August 17, July 23, July 22 and July 6.


[ Compress ] White Wine

2007 De Bortoli Traminer Riesling, New South Wales, Australia: Parcels of traminer and riesling were selected for their varietal flavor profile. With traminer we are looking for spicy musk and floral/rose petal characters to complement the floral and citrus flavors of the riesling. Each variety was fermented separately over 12-16 days. The two parcels were then blended together, clarified and stabilized prior to final filtration and bottling. A soft, off-dry white with notes of sweet peaches, roses and daisies. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: white meats, fish, salad, spicy Asian dishes.  952580  12%  D  750 mL  $12.99  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Flat Rock Cellars Twisted V.Q.A., Ontario, Niagara, Canada: A blend of 60% riesling, 20% chardonnay and 20% gewurztraminer. An exotic and aromatic white with aromas of lychees and rose petals. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: light curries, pork, seafood.  1578  11%  MD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Vineland Estates Semi-Dry Riesling, V.Q.A. Ontario, Canada: One of my favorite whites on the regular list. Lovely bite of citrus makes a great aperitif or a good companion to many dishes. Pair with: salmon, trout, salads, grilled veggies.  232033  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Cave Spring Cellars Riesling, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A zippy, mouth-awakening white with vibrant notes of white grapefruit and lime. Pair with: seafood, salads.  233635  D  750 mL  $14.05  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Riesling, V.Q.A. Ontario, Niagara, Canada: Lovely citrus and floral notes. Refreshing as an aperitif. Pair with: salmon, chicken, pork, salads, shellfish.  277228  12%  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Cave Spring Cellars Riesling, V.Q.A. Beamsville Bench, Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A concentrated wine of lovely finesse and delicate flavors: white flowers, citrus.  286377  12%  D  750 mL  $18.00  Score: 90/100. July 15, 2008 Favorite White Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Flat Rock Cellars Riesling, V.Q.A. Ontario, Niagara, Canada: Grapes from this single vineyard were hand-picked on the 16th of October 2007 at 18.3 Brix, after which they were sorted on shaking sorting table to remove any unwanted material and less than perfect clusters. A juicy, mouth-watering white with lovely floral and melon notes. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: Asian dishes, light curries, seafood.  3281  MD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Red Rooster Winery Riesling, Okanagan Lake, British Columbia, Canada: Red Rooster Winery is located above Okanagan Lake on the Naramata Bench, just north of Penticton. This area is famous for its southwestern exposure and unique microclimate. And why a rooster? Because the winery's founders kept Rodiseland Reds in Switzerland; because roosters are good luck symbols in many cultures; and because roosters have a long association with wine (for example, the rooster is the symbol of the Chianti region of Italy). Picked on October 29, the 2007 Riesling was whole-cluster pressed to extract aroma and flavor components and cool-fermented in stainless steel. A zippy, refreshing white with notes of lime, grapefruit and green apple. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: citrus glazed salmon, spicy prawns, lemon chicken, creamy brie, fresh bread, summer salads.  498840  13%  D  750 mL  $15.99  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Mission Hill Family Estate Chardonnay Reserve, V.Q.A. Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada: An opulent, rich chardonnay with layers of ripe pears, apples and vanilla. Aged in French and American oak. Pair with: pork, chicken, lobster in butter, corn dishes.  545004  XD  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Cousiño Macul Riesling Dona Isidora, Maipo Valley, Chile: The 2006 harvest in Chile's Maipo Valley was late to start but also stretched out over a long period of time before the last cluster was picked. To amplify the inherent floral character and to encourage a long, slow fermentation in small tanks, the winemaking team used two selected yeast strains. To maintain its fruitiness and balance, this wine did not undergo malo-lactic fermentation. After the wine had been lightly fined, it went through a cold stabilization procedure. Prior to being bottled, it was given a polish filtration. Cousino's vineyards are located in the Alto-Maipo, the area of the Maipo Valley closest to the Andes Mountains where certain sites benefit from the "Andes Effect." This refers to the cooling mountain air that descends during the evenings to create a wide range in daily temperature. For white wine, the difference between high and low temperatures means that grapes preserve unusually crisp acidity and the resulting wine is full-flavored and structurally-balanced. An excellent aperitif. A crisp, clean white with notes of grapefruit, lime and green apples. Pair with: Asian dishes.  57182  XD  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Best Value White Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Willm Riesling Reserve, Alsace, France: Elegant and balanced white with refreshing notes of limes and green apples. Pair with: chicken, pork, cream sauces.  11452  12%  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Mezzacorona Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige, Trentino, Italy: A fresh and clean white with notes of melon and grapefruit. No oak. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: seafood, salad.  302380  D  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Gabbiano Pinot Grigio, Trentino, Veneto, Italy: A blend of 85% pinot grigio, 10% garganega, and 5% chardonnay. These grapes were pressed immediately after harvest and vinified in stainless steel tanks for 10-12 days at 18 degrees Celcius. Before release, the wine was matured for four months in stainless steel. A light, simple, refreshing white with notes of lemon and melon.  77990  12%  XD  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Sacred Hill Sauvignon Blanc Whitecliff, Marlborough, New Zealand: A supremely refreshing white with bright notes of limes and grass. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: seafood, salads, vegetarian dishes.  610972  XD  750 mL  $15.35  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Monkey Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand: Monkey Bay is a small, pristine location tucked away on the Marlborough Coast of the South Island. It is part of the larger Cloudy Bay, located not far from where the Wairau River joins the Pacific Ocean. A grassy, simple, refreshing white with aromas of grapefruit and lemon. Closed with a screwcap.  620062  D  750 mL  $14.45  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Cathedral Cellar Chardonnay, South Africa: This chardonnay was aged in new French oak barrels for 9 months, before being stabilized and bottled. A luscious, mouth-watering wine with big aromas of ripe pears, peaches and oak. Pair with: roast chicken, veal, pork, shellfish.  328559  12%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Nederburg Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa: The grapes were sourced from vineyards growing in the Durbanville, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Darling areas. Planted between 1980 and 1999, these vineyards grow in Clovelly, Hutton, Tukulu and Oakleaf soils. The grapes were harvested by hand and machine, balling from February to March. They were crushed and then cool-fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for two or three weeks at 13 degrees Celcius, with a small portion of the grapes receiving skin contact for 4-6 hours. Mouth-watering aromas of grass and gooseberry. Pair with: seafood, creamy fish, chicken, veal dishes.  382713  13%  MD  750 mL  $11.45  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Loredona Riesling, California, United States: San Bernabe Vineyard in Monterey County, part of the San Bernabe AVA, is the most diverse single vineyard in the world, with more than 20 grape varieties planted in 21 different microclimates. This area is one of the coolest growing regions in California, perfect for developing excellent flavor concentration and balance in white wine varietals. A lovely with white with aromatic notes of roses, lychees and white peach. Refreshingly medium-bodied. Pair with: Asian dishes, rich exotic cheese and nuts, dried fruits.  59782  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


[ Compress ] Red Wine

2006 Catera Malbec, Argentina: A lovely, full-bodied, mouth-coating red with powerful notes of black plums and berries. Smooth texture.  478727  D  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Trapiche Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina: A simple, rustic, full-bodied red with notes of black plums. Decant 1-2 hours.  614651  D  750 mL  $12.05  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 The Little Penguin Cabernet Merlot, Australia: A simple but satisfying red quaffer. Medium- to full-bodied with ripe plum notes. Closed with a screwcap. PET bottle (plastic) so you can bounce this off the deck or poolside.  100071  MD  750 mL  $10.95  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Wolf Blass Cabernet Sauvignon Yellow Label, South Australia, Australia: A smooth, full-bodied red with aromas of blackberries, currents and oak.  100074  14%  XD  750 mL  $0.00  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 The Little Penguin Merlot, South Eastern Australia, Australia: This wine was matured with French and American oak. A juicy, plummy merlot. Smooth and supple. Closed with a screwcap. PET bottle (plastic.) Pair with: chicken, duck, game.  598912  13%  D  750 mL  $12.65  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Tapestry Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A very good year in McLaren Vale for their cabernet sauvignon. A concentrated wine with aromas of fleshy blackberries, black raspberries, vanilla and faint mint. Pair with: char grilled steak with fresh crushed garlic, hamburgers. Drink: 2008-2012.  59980  D  750 mL  $26.95  Score: 90/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Flat Rock Cellars Red Twisted, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: The components of this wine were vinified and aged seperately in 10% new French oak barrels and the rest older, then blended. The wine then underwent further bottle maturation for 9 months prior to its release in May 2008. A delightfully flavorful, juicy red with notes of ripe cherries and beetroot. A smooth, medium-bodied red. Pair with: salmon, pork, chicken, pate.  100072  12%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Pillitteri Estates Winery Gamay, V.Q.A. Niagara-on-the-lake, Ontario, Canada: A pretty light- to medium-bodied red bursting with ripe raspberries and a hint of pepper. A beaujolais-style wine that's been aged in oak for six months. Pair with: salmon, chicken, pork, paté.  100073  12%  XD  750 mL  $15.00  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Mike Weir Wine Cabernet Merlot, V.Q.A. Ontario, Niagara, Canada: A rich, layered, full-bodied red with deep notes of black plums, vanilla and cassis. Pair with: steak, steak, venison, game meats, sausages.  109  13%  D  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Peller Estates Cabernet Franc Private Reserve, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: The cabernet franc grapes were hand-picked from a single vineyard in Oliver. This wine underwent traditional red winemaking with 14 days of skin contact. It was then aged in two-year-old French and older American oak barrels (50% French, 50% American oak) for 14 months with full malolactic fermentation. Won the double gold award at the 2007 All Canadian Wine Championships. Aromas of mocha, plum, sweet cherry and cedar. This medium-bodied wine has soft, silky tannins. Pair with: grilled steaks, vegetarian stews, 1- to 2-year-old cheddar, lentil dishes, lamb chops, tuna steaks with peppercorns, gourmet burgers, prime rib on focaccia.  128850  14%  MD  750 mL  $19.99  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Flat Rock Cellars Pinot Noir, V.Q.A. Ontario, Niagara, Canada: A medium-bodied wine with lovely, concentrated notes of cherries. Closed with a screwcap.  1545  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Hillebrand Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Cabernet Franc Trius Red, V.Q.A. Ontario, Niagara, Canada: A concentrated and delicious red with classic notes of black plum, blackberries and a kiss of oak. This wine gets better every year. Pair with: hearty meat dishes, hard cheeses.  303800  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Jackson-Triggs Merlot Reserve Propietors, V.Q.A. British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A stunning wine of great balance and rich depths of flavor. Aged in French and American oak. Pair with: mushroom risotto, veal, beef wellington, medium cheddars.  543876  D  750 mL  $14.75  Score: 90/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Sandhill Cabernet Sauvignon Three, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Part of the small lots program. Won the silver medal for the 2005 LA County Fair. A gentle crush and four day cold soak. Stainless steel with some open top fermentation. Aged in two-year-old American and French oak barrels for 20 months. I love this style of wine; it reminds me of Bordeaux in its balance and finesse. Mature aromas of oak, plum, black cherry and leather. A long finish. Pair with: mushroom lasagna, vegetable stews, parmigiano reggiano, fresh crusty bread. Drink: 2008-2012.  55571  14%  XD  750 mL  $34.99  Score: 90/100. July 15, 2008 Favorite Red Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Sandhill Cabernet Franc, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: The 2006 season began with light but steady rain, creating vigorous growing conditions that produced more bunches than desirable. To stay the yield targets, the growers cut almost 40% of the fruit produced on all red varieties. Aged 15 months in American and French oak. Deep garnet color with aromas of black cherry, black currant, violet, cedar, cigar box and mocha. This dry, medium-bodied wine is rich in the mouth, with texture. Very balanced. Pair with: rack of lamb, wild mushroom risotto, game meats, beef stews, grilled steak with sauteed mushrooms.  556035  XD  750 mL  $19.99  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Sandhill Merlot, V.Q.A. Okanagon Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Aged 15 months in American oak barrels. Won the silver medal at the 2007 Canadian Wine Awards. Aromas of cherry, blueberry and blackberry with a hint of cedar. A medium-bodied merlot with soft tannins. Balanced with a long finish. Pair with: duck breast, red wine cherry reduction, mushroom lasagna, grilled steak and sauteed mushrooms, prime rib and mild cheddar, crusty bread.  576751  XD  750 mL  $19.99  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Jackson-Triggs Meritage Reserve Proprietor, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A blend of 32% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot and 48% full malo-lactic fermentation. Aged in French and American oak for 12 months. A delicious red with notes of black raspberries, vanilla and mocha. Pair with: grilled steak, roast port, lamb chops, aged cheeses.  594002  12%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 I Baci Cabernet Merlot, Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A blend of 55% cabernet sauvignon (Chile), 35% merlot (Italy) and 10% cabernet/merlot (Niagara.) A delicious and aromatic red, bursting with ripe berry fruit. Full-bodied, smooth and round. Great value. Available at the winery or online at www.ibaciwines.com. LCBO release date is Friday May 9th. Pair with: burgers, pastas, pizzas, tomatoe sauces, mild cheeses.  78576  XD  750 mL  $9.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Cabernet Sauvignon St. David's Bench, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A delicious and robust red with excellent structure and finish. Aromas of blackberries and cassis. Aged on year in French oak. Pair with: steak, stew, venison, hamburgers. Drink: 2008-2014.  935957  13%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Cousiño Macul Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva Antiguas, Maipo Valley, Chile: Harvested at physiological maturity when the tannins are ripe and soft, the fruit is given a gentle cold-soak to extract flavor. Cousino's vineyards are located in the Alto-Maipo, the area of the Maipo Valley closest to the Andes where certain sites benefit from the "Andes Effect." This refers to the cooling mountain air that descends during the evenings to create a wide range in daily temperature. The Andes effect encourages slow, incremental sugar development which contributes to color intensity, aroma profiles, excellent retention of natural fruit acidity and ripe tannin. Aged 12 months in small French oak barrels. This red is 100% cabernet sauvignon. A terrific, full-bodied wine with layers of dark red fruit.  212933  14%  D  750 mL  $15.35  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon 120, Rapel Valley, Chile: Terrific quality and taste for the money. Loaded with blackberries, vanilla and smoke.  218644  14%  XD  750 mL  $10.44  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Carmen Carmenére Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Maipo Valley, Chile: Fantastically luxurious wine with depths of mocha and black plums. Aged 10 months in French and American oak. Pair with: roast and grilled meats, lamb, hard cheeses.  439166  D  750 mL  $16.85  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Santa Carolina Cabernet Sauvignon, Rapel Valley, Chile: A ripe, full-bodied red with sweet plum flavors. Oaky, velvety texture.  535344  XD  750 mL  $9.85  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Tarapaca Merlot, Maipo Valley, Chile: A full-bodied number with notes of mocha and black plums. Smooth texture. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: grilled meats.  558668  14%  XD  750 mL  $9.90  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Best Value Red Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Mont Gras Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Terrific, full-bodied wine with aromas of mocha, blackberries and plums. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: BBQ.  619205  14%  D  750 mL  $11.90  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Cono Sur Merlot Visión, Chile: About 70% of the blend was aged in barrels and 30% aged in stainless steel for 10 months. A purply plum wine with a smooth, full-bodied texture. Pair with: roasted meats, cheese, pastas and dry fruit.  928291  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Beaujolais, Beaujolais-Villages, France: A lovely, smooth, medium-bodied red bursting with ripe strawberries. There are 39 villages entitled to name their wine Beaujolais. Serve slightly chilled. Pair with: light foods.  100076  12%  D  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Mommessin Beaujolais Grande Reserve, Beaujolais, France: Made from 100% Gamay grapes. A fun, simple, medium-bodied red with juicy ripe strawberry notes. Bottled in aluminum and closed with a screwcap. Pair with: snacks, veal, red meats, chocolate desserts.  63438  MD  $14.95  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Folonari Merlot Blend Regata Rosso, Veneto, Italy: A blend of 60% merlot, 20% corvina and 20% cabernet. A simple, smooth wine with red berry fruit notes. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: cured pork meats, savory first courses, poultry, red meats.  31963  13%  MD  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 85/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Ruffino Chianti Classico Reserva Ducale, Italy: A classic, balanced chianti with deep red fruit notes and good length. Aged two years in oak. Pair with: pasta in tomato sauce.  45195  13%  D  750 mL  $25.75  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Cesari Merlot, I.G.T. Veneto, Italy: An amazingly great wine for the price. A full-bodied, smooth red with aromas of ripe plums and blackberries. Pair with: lasgna, pasta, hard cheeses.  572453  12%  XD  750 mL  $7.45  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Gabbiano Chianti, Tuscany, Italy: The vineyards for this vintage are a altitudes of 325-650 feet. Vinified on skins for 15 days at 28-30 degrees celcius with pump-overs four times daily to extract color and flavor. A 100% malolactic fermentation was completed after 30 days and small amounts of canaiolo, colorino and ciliegiolo grapes were added to enhance complexity and texture. Before bottling, the wine was aged for five months in stainless steel tanks. Excellent value for this full-bodied, delicious red loaded with ripe red fruit notes. Pair with: pasta in tomato sauce, sausages, lasagna, pizza.  78006  12%  D  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Roy's Hill Merlot, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand: The winery owns and manages almost 100 hectares of established vineyards at Gimblett Road. The majority of this vineyard is located within the unique Hawke's Bay sub-region that has become known as Gimblett Gravels. These vineyards are the result of gravelly soils laid down by the Ngaruroro river, exposed after a huge flood in the 1870s. Lovely layers of ripe plums and smoke. A supple and medium- to full-bodied merlot. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: pork, veal.  223602  13%  MD  750 mL  $18.99  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Alianca Bairrada Reserva, D.O.C. Bairrada, Portugal: Simple, lip-smacking red with delicious notes of purple plums, oak and mocha. Pair with: roast beef, lamb, stews, grilled meats.  158741  13%  XD  750 mL  $8.45  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Nederburg Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, South Africa: Planted between 1990 and 1998, the grapes were sourced from vineyards grown in decomposed granite, and are situated on a southerly slope at altitudes of 50m - 100m, grown under dryland conditions. The grapes were harvested by hand and machine, balling from mid-February to the end of March. They were crushed and then cool-fermented on the skins in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for 14 days. After malolactic fermentation the wine was matured in wood for a period of 12 months. Pair with: steaks, beef stroganoff, stews, roasts, mature cheeses.  111526  14%  MD  750 mL  $12.75  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Nederburg Shiraz Reserve, South Africa: A berry-ripe, full-bodied red with juicy layers of flavor. Pair with: hamburgers, steaks.  527457  14%  D  750 mL  $12.75  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Robertson Winery Shiraz, South Africa: A simple, flavorful shiraz loaded with black fruit and oak. Full-bodied. Pair with: steak, stew.  610949  D  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Bodegas Piqueras Tempranillo Monastrell Garnacha Reserva Castillo De Almansa, D.O. Almansa, Spain: Blend of tempranillo, monastrell and garnacha. Aged 12 months in oak barrels. Rich aromas of black plums, berries, smoke and a touch of pepper. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with: roasted meats, baked pasta, grilled foods.  270363  14%  XD  750 mL  $11.85  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2001 Julian Chivite Tempranillo Blend Reserva Gran Feudo, Navarra, Spain: A blend of 80% tempranillo, 20% cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Aged 18 months in French and American oak barrels. A balanced, delicious, elegant wine. Terrific notes of ripe blackberries and smoke. Pair with: grilled and roasted meats.  479017  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Tapena Garnacha, Spain: A plush, full-bodied red with generous layers of ripe plum. Excellent value. Pair with: pork tenderloin, venison burgers, grilled vegetables, steak with a cherry sauce.  72553  MD  750 mL  $13.75  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Serego Alighieri Sangiovese, Poderi Del Bello Ovile, Tuscany: With the acquisition of Poderi del Bello Ovile, the poet Danté's descendants, the Counts Serego Alighieri, return to their homeland of Tuscany after an uninterrupted stay in Valpolicella since 1353, where engaged in viticulture and winemaking. Now using sangiovese, canaiolo and ciliegiolo grape varieties from the hillside vineyards if Cinigiano they have begun to make a Tuscan wine with a ruby red color full of aromas of cherries and plums. Full-bodied, complex and long on the finish. Pair with: lasagna, pizza, sausage, pasta in tomato sauce.  73106  13%  D  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Gnarly Head Zinfandel Old Vine, Lodi, California, United States: These vineyards some with 80+ year old vines, also make a bold impression on first sight. Unlike modern rows of trellised vines, these old Zinfandel vines were grown as free standing "head trained" vines. Today, they resemble wild bushes with twisted old trunks and branches that spread out in all directions sprouting leaves like unruly umbrellas - gnarly heads. The grapes from these brash old vines create zinfandel with rich, concentrated fruit flavor that is easy to drink and pair. The 2006 Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel is crafted from grapes from 35- to 80-year-old vines. A juicy, generous blackberry and plummy wine. Full-bodied. Pair with: barbeque, pizza, hearty pasta, chili.  10007  XD  750 mL  $19.76  Score: 90/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Francis Ford Coppola Shiraz Rosso, California, United States: A delightful red filled with sweet cherry fruit and full-bodied simplicity. Pair with: barbeque quaffer.  57034  D  750 mL  $15.30  Score: 86/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Sonoma Vineyards Merlot, Sonoma County, California, United States: A balanced and delicious wine with notes of mocha and black plums.  60632  D  750 mL  $14.99  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Twin Fin Cabernet Sauvignon, California, United States: After fermentation, the juice was transferred into a mixture of new and old French and American barrels for approximately 12 months. A simple, tasty cabernet with a smooth texture and pleasant notes of blackberries and cassis. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: barbequed rib eye, beef wellington, cheddar cheeses, lamb ragout with roasted sweet peppers, peking duck.  613273  D  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Dog House Merlot Maxies, California, United States: A simple, smooth, medium-bodied wine with plum notes. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: spaghetti, pizza, lasagna, sharp cheeses.  614156  D  750 mL  $11.75  Score: 85/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Matchbook Blockhouse Syrah Tempranillo Malbec Petit Verdot, California, United States: Aged in French and American oak for 7 months. Syrah adds rich flavor and aromas of black cherry and blueberry; the Spanish varietal tempranillo adds spicy red berry fruit flavors; the bordeaux varietals malbec and petit verdot add depth and structure. This wine won the silver medal 2007 at the California State Fair. A balanced and elegant red with notes of black cherry, plum, toast and a hint of oak.  66670  MD  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 90/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Dancing Bull Zinfandel Rancho Zabaco, California, United States: Bold, mouth-watering flavors of plums, ripe berries and vanilla. A kiss of oak. Fantastic value. Pair with: barbecued meats, roast beef, chili, lightly spiced curries, fajitas.  669499  14%  D  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Gnarly Head Zinfandel Gnarlier Head Old Vine, Dry Creek Valley, California, United States: Dry Creek Valley is nestled between the Pacific Ocean-exposed Sonoma Coast and Alexander Valley. It is one of the northern-most AVAs in Sonoma and benefits from both inland and coastal influences. Like Alexander Valley, it has hotter daytime temperatures. Like Russian River Valley to the southwest, it has cooling coastal fog in the morning and the evenings. The grapes for Gnarlier Head Zin were hand-harvested over three days from a single vineyard. After two weeks fermentation, the wine was pressed off into French and American oak barrels and malolactic fermentation, which balances acidity and adds richness to the wine. The wine spent a total of 14 months in small oak barrels before being carefully racked and blended into the finished Gnarlier Head Old Vine Zin. A full-bodied red with concentrated aromas of black plums, cloves and blackberries. Pair with: blackened snapper, pizza, grilled portobello, mushrooms, pepper steak.  67785  XD  750 mL  $27.75  Score: 91/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Cline Syrah, Sonoma, California, United States: A gorgeous, rich red with layers of black cherries, spice and smoke. Pair with: grilled meats, game meats.  733758  14%  0D  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Rodney Strong Wine Estates Pinot Noir, Sonoma, Russian River, California, United States: Generous aromas of sweet, ripe cherries. Pair with: salmon.  954834  D  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


[ Compress ] Rosés

2006 Cave Spring Cellars Rosé, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Used the Aaigneé method of unification on cabernet grapes. Lovely notes of strawberries. A bone-dry, medium-bodied wine. Pair with: salmon.  295006  XD  750 mL  $13.05  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Terra Ventoux Grenache Syrah Rosé French Folies, Cote-Du Ventroux, France: Gorgeous, full-bodied rosé with deep aromas of ripe raspberries. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: grilled salmon, shellfish, pork, chicken.  40410  13%  XD  750 mL  $10.95  Score: 88/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Folonan Pinot Grigio Rosé Pink, Venezie, Italy: A light-bodied rosé with delicate strawberry notes and a beautiful pale salmon color. Great aperitif. Pair with: trout, sole.  43588  D  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


Marqués de Cáceres Tempranillo Blend Rosado, Rioja, Spain: A blend of 80% tempranillo, 20% garnacha selected from the highest slopes in the Rioja Alta. The grapes are macerated for several hours, after which they are separated from the skins to begin the slow process of alcoholic fermentation at low temperatures, in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then stabilized by refrigeration treatment. This type of wine is not aged in oak. A dry mouth-watering rosé with lovely notes of strawberries. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: fish, pork, chicken, Mediterranean cusine: vegetables sauteed in olive oil, paella, pasta and lightly spiced dishes.  622142  13%  XD  750 mL  $15.99  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


[ Compress ] Sparkling Wine

Segura Viudas Parellada Macabeo Xarel-Lo Brut Reserva, Penedes, Spain: A blend of 35% parellada, 50% macabeo and 15% xarel-lo grapes. Serve between 6-8 degrees celcius. A deep, full-bodied bubbly with notes of pear, toast and oak. Fantastic value. Drink: 2008-2012.  158493  MD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 87/100. July 15, 2008 Favorite Bubbly. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


[ Compress ] Dessert Wine

2005 Dan Akroyd Vidal Icewine Signature Reserve, Niagara, Ontario, Canada: The frozen vidal grapes were harvested early in December 2005 after temperatures fell. After settling of the juice, cool fermentation was completed in mid-February when the wine was placed outdoors to stop fermentation. The wine was then transfered into small French oak barrels where it aged for a period of 12 months. Loaded with layers of apricots and honey, with a rounded oak finish. Pair with: foie gras, soft creamy cheese like blue and stilton, desserts, chocolates.  58842  12%  S  375 mL  $79.95  Score: 89/100. July 15, 2008 Favorite Dessert Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review






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