Vintages Wine Picks July 23, 2011

by Natalie MacLean

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[ Compress ] White Wine

Alamos Catena Zapata Torrontés 2010, Salta, Argentina: Lovely floral and white peach goodness. Mouth-watering and stone fruit. Amazing price. Drink: 2011-2013. 81539 13.50% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value White Wine.
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Josef Chromy Chardonnay 2009, Tasmania, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: Classic example of New World cool-climate Chardonnay. Aromas of apricot, coconut, pear, biscuits and cream corn really come to the fore. Dry, very rich and flavourful with plentiful oak and a seam of acidity that brings the whole package into near-perfect alignment. Full bodied with a long and stylish finish. Cellar it 2-3 years, or enjoy it tonight. My note: Marvelous and dazzling array of sun-dappled fruit and goodness. Full-bodied with vibrant notes of green apple and toasted almond. Bring it on! Drink: 2011-2016. 162982 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. July 23, 2011
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Loimer Trocken Grüner Veltliner 2009, D.A.C., Kamptal, Austria: Wow, welcome to gruner! This one is terrific. Yes, it’s got the green fruit but there’s also a citrus-lime lift. Like it. Drink: 2011-2014. 142240 12.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011
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Inniskillin Winemaker's Series Three Vineyards Chardonnay 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: This has very good pedigree and shows Niagara cool-climate Chardonnay in an ideal frame. Look for aromas of pear, popcorn, tropical fruit and coconut. Dry, fruity and fresh with an elegant application of oak ageing. Medium-full bodied, with a delicious medium-long finish. Enjoyable now and for the next 3+ years. My note: Lovely balance with terrific mouth-filling richness and vibrant zesty notes of green apple and almond. Full-bodied but not heavy. Very, very satisfying. Drink: 2011-2014. 105379 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Coyote's Run Black Paw Vineyard Chardonnay 2009, V.Q.A., Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Lovely pent-up, almost coiled up, kinetic energy in this wine that unfolds on the palate with vibrant dazzling green apple fruit and white peach. A smoky almond finish. Phenomenal balance and length. Drink: 2011-2015. 49775 12.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Le Clos Jordanne Claystone Terrace Chardonnay 2008, Ontario, Canada: Gorgeous hazelnut and toasted almond goodness wrap themselves luxuriously around bright green apple and white peach notes. Truly one of Canada best Chardonnays, if not the best. Drink: 2011-2016. 56929 13.50% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 94/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated White Wine.
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Domaine Rieflé Pinot Gris 2008, A.C., Côte De Rouffach, Alsace, France: Love it! Vibrant with green apple and white peach. This is so flavourful, especially for Pinot Gris. Open your world and your senses. Drink: 2011-2015. 223917 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Jean Féry & Fils Les Nosroyes Puligny Montrachet Chardonnay 2008, A.C., Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Displays the best of what Puligny-Montrachet Chardonnay can offer. Aromas suggest orchard fruit, applesauce, lemon zest, smoke, toast and hints of marzipan and minerality. Dry, very complex and layered with a nice interplay between the fruit, tangy acidity and well-handled oak. Poised with a lingering, elegant finish. This will cellar gracefully for 3-5+ years. It may be enjoyed tonight. My score: Smokin good! Green apple goodness, with a smoky loveliness. Full-bodied and mouth watering. Drink: 2011-2018. 243568 13% XD 750 mL $52.95 Score: 95/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated White Wine.
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Clos Du Porteau Le Courlis Sauvignon 2009, A.C., Touraine, Loire, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Fine Sauvignon Blanc with aromas of freshly cut grass, grapefruit, mineral and hint of gooseberry. Dry with a wonderful equilibrium between the fruit/herb tones and the acidity. A great summer sipper. My note: Herbal and refreshing with a lime lift. Zesty and refreshing. Drink: 2011-2013. 246041 12.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value White Wine.
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La Chablisienne Fourchaume Chablis 1Er Cru 2008, A.C., Burgundy, France: It occurs to me that I keep recommending this Chablis year after year: pure essence of green apples and lime. Mouth-watering and juicy with crystal clear laser focus. Drink: 2011-2015. 656835 13% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Willy Gisselbrecht Tradition Gewurztraminer 2008, A.C., Alsace, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Pleasant notes of peach, ginger and lychee greet the nose here. A touch off-dry, well balanced and lovely with citrus, peach and spice tones in the mouth. Ideal for spicy Indian curry dishes featuring chicken or lamb. My note: Love this! Not too heavy gewurz, just right. Rose petal and lychee and baking spices. Drink: 2011-2015. 928390 13% MD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Bongiovanni Arneis 2009, D.O.C., Langhe, Piedmont, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Up until the early 20th century, Arneis was used by producers to soften the red grape, Nebbiolo. Today, after a period of decline, it is thriving again on its own in Piedmont. It creates floral-, pear- and apricot-scented, full-bodied, flavourful wines. This is without question a variety that will be relatively new to most Vintages customers, even though it’s been cultivated for centuries. My note: Crisp and refreshing without a ton of oak. White melon and grapefruit. A good alternative to Pinot Grigio. Drink: 2011-2014. 216465 13.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. July 23, 2011
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Mongris Marco Felluga Pinot Grigio 2009, D.O.C., Collio, Friuli, Italy: Clear, crisp and refreshing with white fruit and lime citrus. A summer patio white. Drink: 2011-2014. 230623 13% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 87/100. July 23, 2011
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Jermann Chardonnay 2009, Friuli, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Attractive yellow straw with green tinge colour catches the eye first. Then the lovely array of aromas step up, including peach, mineral (wet stone) and tropical fruit. Dry with a lot of fruit to start, it is all brought immediately into line by fresh acidity and well-handled oak. Everything is in just the right proportions here. Medium-full bodied with a medium-long crisp/fruit/ gentle toast finish. Cellar it 3-5 years or enjoy it tonight with a pork tenderloin. My note: Wow! This Chardonnay walks a wonderful line between luscious richness and fine-tuned acidity and balance. Love this style. Gorgeous aromas of pear and peach fruit, with some green apple zest on the finish. Drink: 2011-2015. 583245 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. July 23, 2011
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Tedeschi Capitel San Rocco Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2008, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Full-bodied and delicious whack on the palate with lashing of big black fruit. Perfect for meat lovers’ pizza or sausages. Pass the bottle here please. Drink: 2011-2014. 719294 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011
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Tiefenbrunner Pinot Grigio 2010, D.O.C., Südtirol-Alto Adige, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This Pinot Grigio, from an area known for crafting serious white wines, displays a delicate bouquet with hints of pear and candied fruit. It’s dry, round (from the extended lees ageing) and medium bodied with a fresh seam of acidity that gives the wine fine balance. The ever-versatile Pinot Grigio pairs easily with all sorts of appetizers. My note: I recommend this zesty, zippy Pinot Grigio year after year. Consistently great producer with attractive white melon, grapefruit and white peach. Love it! Drink: 2011-2014. 954024 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Spinyback Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Nelson, South Island, New Zealand: Herbal and grassy with big mouth-watering acidity. Medium-bodied and food-friendly. Drink: 2011-2013. 694737 12.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value White Wine.
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Soljans Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Soljans has been producing quality wines in New Zealand for three generations. Their 2009 Sauvignon Blanc offers lovely floral and herbaceous notes along with rich and ripe tropical-fruit aromas and flavours. Dry, fresh, medium bodied and easy-drinking, it will make an ideal addition as a sipper at any barbecue. My note: Classic NZ SB, but not too herbal with lemongrass and chives. Terrific for such a wide range of dishes from salads to seafood. Drink: 2011-2015. 91223 12% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. July 23, 2011
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Ataraxia Chardonnay 2009, W.O., Western Cape, South Africa: Incredibly mouth-watering aromas and flavours of green apple and lime with a long smoky finish. Full-bodied and rich but with nervy energy. Drink: 2011-2016. 232967 13.50% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. July 23, 2011
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Beringer Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Mango, mineral, candied citrus peel and floral are the prime aromas on display here. Dry, fruity and refreshing with a touch of well-handled oak. Medium bodied, medium finish. Enjoy tonight or for backyard sipping with soft cheeses. My note: not extremely herbal, more lemongrass and lime highlights. I like it lots. Zesty and refreshing and mouth-watering acidity. Drink: 2011-2015. 394353 14.10% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. July 23, 2011
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Artesa Chardonnay 2009, Carneros, California, United States: Rich and robust chardonnay with green apples and smoky oak. Great balance, length and concentration. Drink: 2011-2015. 657585 14.30% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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[ Compress ] Red Wine

Small Gully The Formula Robert's Shiraz 2006, Adelaide Plains, South Australia, Australia: Lovely the juiciness that doesn’t stop giving. Fleshy fruit roll across your mouth and there’s a gorgeous liveliness to the black berries and plums. Long finish. Superb, especially at this price. Drink: 2011-2015. 142935 15.90% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Two Hands Sexy Beast Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: Black as night, this wine is anything but shy in how it embraces the senses. Layered, complex and invigorating aromas of warm blueberry pie, milk chocolate, cassis and white pepper delightfully infiltrate the nose. You will love how this dry, full-bodied wine, with its supremely ripe and concentrated fruit, fleshy tannins and precise balancing acids caresses the palate. This will reward 2+ years in the cellar, but will eagerly cuddle up close tonight with an intensely marinated steak. My note: Juicy, black and brooding with a heart of darkness. Blackberries and blackcurrant aromas with some herbal notes and a healthy dollop of toasted oak. Perfect for steak dinners. Drink: 2011-2015. 219469 14% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Best's Great Western Bin 1 Shiraz 2008, Grampians, Victoria, Australia: Nice balance: doesn’t taste as alcoholic as it is. Full-bodied richness with ripe blackberries and plums. Good length and depth. Great effort! Drink: 2011-2015. 222323 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Punt Road Airlie Bank Pinot Noir 2009, Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia: Soft and lovely, like falling backwards into red satin cushions. Close your eyes and let this wine wash over you. Supple with fleshy cherries and a gentle acidity. Yum! Drink: 2011-2015. 237727 12.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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St. Hallett Gst Grenache Shiraz Touriga 2008, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Classic Aussie blend with full-on oak treatment. Black brooding fruit with great concentration, length and depth. Perfect for barbecues meant to impress, like maybe your boss. Drink: 2011-2015. 660910 14.50% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Wakefield Shiraz 2009, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Big honkin plums, spice and mint. Bring it on and don’t stop. Big and ripe with juicy goodness. Drink: 2011-2015. 943787 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011
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Strewn Terroir Merlot 2006, V.Q.A., Niagara , Ontario, Canada: Lovely richness and depth with mocha espresso depth and black plums. Drink: 2011-2015. 225763 12.70% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Nk'mip Qwam Qwmt Syrah 2007, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Absolutely stunning! This winery leapfrogs itself every year, coming out of the gate with spectacular robust reds. Gorgeous depth of hedonitsically ripe blackberries and plums with a velvet texture and finish as long as the dessert sunset where it's made. 230094 13% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 93/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine.
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Flat Rock Cellars Red Twisted 2009, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Hello oak! This is a first on this wine so go so generous with the smoke treatment. Still a very good wine with fleshy ripe red fruit and juicy mouth-watering goodness. Drink: 2011-2014. 86918 12.30% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011
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Tabali Reserva Especial Syrah 2008, Limari Valley, Chile: Chocolate with black fruit and a pleasant bite. Full-bodied and smooth. Great for barbecue. Drink: 2011-2016. 213538 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. July 23, 2011
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Concha Y Toro Trio Reserva Merlot Carmenere Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Rapel Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: This winery started as a little French pocket in Chile, as Don Melchor de Concha y Toro married a Frenchwoman named Emiliana Subercaseaux who owned a vineyard planted with vines brought over from Bordeaux and managed by two of her countrymen. This, part of their Trio collection, is a blend of mostly Merlot, plus Carmenère and Cabernet Sauvignon. Concha y Toro finds the conditions for perfectly maturing the grapes for this wine in the Rapel Valley. Enjoy this fresh and fruit-driven triple threat. My note: How can you not love this wine? Mocha and espresso goodness with plum preserves crushing between your lips. Drink: 2011-2015. 433920 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Château Pindefleurs Grand Cru Dominique Lauret-Mestreguilhem, Prop.-Récolt. 2007, A.C., St-Émilion, Bordeaux, France: Full-on smoky, toasty oak with black fruit brooding underneath. Full-bodied and enticing. Great price. Drink: 2009-2013. 102764 13% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011
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Château Castegens 2006, A.C., Côtes De Castillon, Bordeaux, France: Full-bodied with incredible concentration and black cherry aromas. Some tannins so decant 1-2 hours. Terrific quality for the money. Drink: 2009-2014. 125856 12.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Vieux Chateau D'astros Cuvée Du Commandeur 2009, A.C., Côtes De Provence, Midi, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A blend of Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carignan from the strong 2009 vintage, this wine certainly commands attention. There is nice depth to the nose with ripe black cherry, raspberry, cherry and pomegranate. Dry, it has very good structure. Medium bodied and well made with plenty of ripe fruit here supported wonderfully by soft tannins. Culminates in a fruity and dry finish. My note: Seductive notes of mocha and dark chocolate draw you a little closer to the glass, then you’re flooded with rip blackberries and smoke. Full-bodied with a bit of a grip. Decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2011-2014. 221952 13.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Delas Frères Les Reinages Gigondas 2007, A.C., Rhône, France: Splendid concentration, depth and length in this wine that can make everything better again. Big black cherries and raspberries but also a structured scaffolding that could hold up the Louvre. Gorgeous wine for now or for your cellar. Drink: 2011-2022. 222604 15% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. July 23, 2011
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Château L'argentyre 2006, A.C., Médoc, Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Filled with aromas of cassis, coffee, vanilla and toast. Dry with fruit surrounded by balanced, fresh acids. This well-made wine is drinking well now. It will also reward 2-3 more years in a cellar. My note: Coffee, smoke and toasty oak swirl around black fruit and a pleasant bitter grip. Decant 1-2 hours and serve with filet for optimum pleasure. Drink: 2011-2014. 226217 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. July 23, 2011
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Éric Texier Vaison La Romaine 2007, A.C., Côtes De Rhône-Villages, France: Juicy, mouth-watering red and black cherries tumble across your pleasure palate. Full-bodied and pretty smooth with immediate drinkability. Top me up! Drink: 2011-2015. 226845 13% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Henry Fessy Moulin-Â-Vent 2009, A.C., Beaujolais, France: Juicy and vibrant with come-alive raspberry-cherry berry notes. I really like this because it’s not too sweet on the fruit ripeness, and have great mouth-watering juiciness. Medium-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2009-2014. 233924 13.50% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Domaine De La Vieille Ferme De L'eoune Rasteau 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhone-Villages, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Winner of a Gold Medal with Congratulations (a higher honour than Gold) at the Concours des Vins Orange 2010. Wonderful blackberry, spice and violet notes here. Dry, medium bodied and soft, the palate offers nice complexity and structure with succulent black fruit, great texture and length. My note : Juicy, dark and rich. A honkin’ big red that can stand up to any slab of meat you throw on the barbecue, including brontosaurus burgers. Big black berries and licorice flavours. Drink: 2010-2016. 234658 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Château Puech-Haut Prestige 2009, A.C., Coteaux Du Languedoc, Midi, France: A terrific red, especially at this price point. I love the black raspberry, anise and cedar smoke. It’s so vibrant and live in the glass, yet delivers full-bodied depth and length. Drink: 2010-2016. 237289 14.50% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Domaine De La Presidente Nonciature 2007, A.C., Châteauneuf Du Pape, Rhône, France: A mellow, but full-bodied Châteauneuf that has aged beautifully. I like the more subtle dark fruit and dried herb and smoke aromas coming out of the glass versus full-on red and black fruit of youth. Drink: 2011-2018. 237339 14% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Mas De La Devèze 66 2007, A.C., Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi, France: Big fat ripe cherries borne up on alcoholic warmth. Full-bodied and rich with a raspberry liqueur concentration. Great for barbecues and movie night with meat lovers pizza and a very scary movie. Drink: 2011-2014. 65797 14.90% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Chàteau De Nages Jt Costiéres De Nîmes 2007, A.C., Rhône, France: Black cherries rolled in mocha, espresso and a bit of bacon. No, I’m not kidding. It’s deliciously different. Full-bodied, rich and deep with a certain something that will keep you coming back to the glass. Drink: 2011-2014. 736876 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Vesevo Beneventano Aglianico 2008, I.G.T., Campania, Italy: A juicy, robust, rustic red with black cherries and cedar smoke. Straight, lip-smacking pleasure. Drink: 2011-2013. 120907 13.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011
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Il Marroneto Brunello Di Montalcino 2005, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Sour cherry with violets, fresh earth and dark tart berries. Full-bodied and smooth with the complexity that age brings. Subtle and complex. Drink: 2011-2018. 190108 13.50% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Franco Molino Barolo 2006, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: An exciting wine for Barolo fans new and old. Layered and wonderfully complex on the nose with pleasing sweet tea, tamarind spice, plum and leather notes. The palate is medium bodied with firm tannins but enough fruit to keep things balanced. Dried cherry, spice and a sweet fruit core make this a delicious wine. An excellent value. My note: Holy honkin tannins batman! Okay so we either need 3 hours decants a little patience with this baby in the cellar. Black fruit, violets and smoke. Great price for Barolo. Drink: 2013-2018. 212464 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Sampietrana Tacco Barocco Primitivo 2008, I.G.T., Salento, Puglia, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Winner of a Silver Medal at the 2010 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. The label doesn’t state this, but our research confirms that this wine is indeed an IGT Salento. Loads of plum, blackberry and pomegranate aromas and flavours dominate. Dry, robust, yet well balanced by fine tannins and a good seam of acidity. Can mature 2-4 years, but is an excellent choice for tonight’s barbecue. My note: Simple, full-bodied and tasty with dark fruit and smoke. Great for barbecue. Drink: 2011-2014. 214692 13.50% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. July 23, 2011
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Feudi Di San Marzano Sud Primitivo Di Manduria 2008, D.O.C., Puglia, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: A very rich nose here, with full notes of black cherry, coffee and chocolate. Quite modern in style, full bodied, well balanced and lush with blackberry, plum, and a sweet fruity core all leading to a fruity finish. Marvelous. My note: Full-on purple berry and plum richness. This is zinfandel to the 10. Concentrated, jammy and delicious. Fire up the barbecue! Drink: 2011-2015. 230532 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Rocca Delle Macìe Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2006, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: The nose suggests raspberry, spice and strawberry with a minty herbal tone. Very well made, dry, round and balanced, this medium bodied wine has medium tannins and acidity, with lovely soft cranberry, spice and floral flavours. Juicy, crisp and with a lovely full finish. Try it tonight. My note: Very pleasant and full-bodied with generous dark fleshy fruit, dark spices and smoke. Superb craftsmanship. Drink: 2011-2015. 232488 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Feudo Disisa Nero D'avola 2008, I.G.T., Sicily, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Despite being Sicily’s most widely planted grape, Nero D’Avola may have originated in Calabria on the mainland, which may explain why the grape is also known as Calabrese. Regardless, in Sicily it produces delicious wines. Disisa’s 2008 version presents a smoky nose, with ripe black cherry, hints of sage and vanilla and plum. The palate is dry, lush and medium-full bodied with a sweet core of raspberry. My note: Lip-smacking, juicy delicious with aromas of purple plum and berries. Full-bodied and smooth. Perfect for any casual get-together and for parties where you don’t want to blow your budget but you do want your guests to think you spent a lot more than this. Drink: 2011-2014. 238899 13.50% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Cantina Di Venosa Terre Di Orazio Aglianico Del Vulture 2007, D.O.C.G., Basilicata, Italy: Black cherry liqueur luxuriously laps over your tongue. Excuse me for a moment please. Okay, I’m back. Full-bodied weight with generous juiciness. Drink: 2011-2015. 247494 13.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Cantina Tollo Aldiano Riserva Cantina Tollo Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2007, D.O.C., Tuscany, Italy: Mocha-dark chocolate richness wraps around fleshy black fruit with a dark hedonistic core of pleasure. Smooth with terrific length and depth. Amazing quality for the money. Drink: 2011-2015. 51706 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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L.A. Cetto Zinfandel 2008, Guadalupe Valley, Baja California, Mexico: Zingy and full-bodied with lovely purple plums and blueberry notes. A staggeringly great price… what have you got to lose? Drink: 2011-2013. 405605 14.50% XD 750 mL $10.95 Score: 87/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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L.A. Cetto Petite Sirah 2008, Guadalupe Valley, Baja California, Mexico: This has to be one of the best values in the entire liquor store! What more could you want, or at least ask for, for $11.95? Plush black fruit, mouth-watering and juicy, satisfying and rich. The Ultimate party wine. Drink: 2011-2014. 983742 14.50% XD 750 mL $11.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Red Wine.
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Thatched Hut Pinot Noir 2010, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: A terrific Pinot and wonderful value for a wine from Central Otago, arguably New Zealand’s best place to grow Pinot Noir. Medium ruby colour. Aromas are clearly Otago Pinot: sour cherry, pomegranate, wet earth, plum, plus a hint of prune. Dry, flavourful and fruity with resolving tannins and pleasant acidity. The texture is quite silky. Ready to drink. My note: Zingy cherry aromas with a lovely softness and satin texture on the palate. Medium-bodied with a gentleness you want to wrap around you like a comforting shawl. Good night. Drink: 2011-2015. 242933 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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Faustino V Reserva 2005, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: Vanilla, currant, plum, wood and leather notes rise from the glass. The palate is dry and velvety with lovely earth, dark fruit and wood notes with a very nice length. This Tempranillo blend will prove a wonderful match for many foods. This wine will drink beautifully today but will also reward a further 3-5 years in your cellar. My note: Leather, dried herbs and Old World maturity. Full-bodied and smooth. I’m riding into the sunset now. Drink: 2011-2015. 22798 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011
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Mount Eden Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Santa Cruz Mountains, California, United States: Macerated black cherries and blackberries covered in fresh earth with terrific grip and mouth-watering action. Full-bodied and delicious. Complex and beautifully structured. Drink: 2011-2016. 31831 13.90% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine.
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Beringer Alluvium Red 2007, Knights Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: A wonderful expression of Knights Valley fruit, this blends Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Delivers complex aromas of spice, chocolate, minerals and wonderful black cherry and berry fruit. The palate is equally intricate with delicately layered flavours of chocolate, ripe blackberry, vanilla and spice. There is terrific structure here, with nicely balanced fruit and tannins and a medium-long fruity finish. My note: Rich, complex and multi-faceted. Classic cabernet aromas of cassis, blackcurrant and some tobacco smoke. Superb craftsmanship. Drink: 2012-2018. 393447 14.40% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 93/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated Red.
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Beringer Founders' Estate Old Vine Zinfandel 2008, California, United States: A thoroughly modern, fruit-forward, ready-to-drink old vines Zin from Napa’s oldest continuously operating winery. An excellent value, it’s a perfect fit for grilled gourmet sausages, spareribs or chicken with a zingy tomato sauce. 567453 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. July 23, 2011
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La Crema Pinot Noir 2008, Los Carneros, California, United States: Love this! Beautiful cherries and field raspberry notes roll in first then there’s fresh earth after a spring rain followed by some baking spices and a long finish. This pinot has been one of my favourites for years. Drink: 2011-2016. 58024 14.50% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 92/100. July 23, 2011
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Frog's Leap Zinfandel 2008, Napa Valley, California, United States: Gorgeous and complex, almost a little cabernet-like in it’s lovely structure. Rich with blackberries and brambleberries and a wonderfully long finish. Superb! Drink: 2011-2016. 593525 13.70% D 750 mL $33.95 Score: 92/100. July 23, 2011
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Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Sonoma County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: The building, gardens and vineyards that make up Chateau St. Jean are an architectural treat – stylish, elegant, gracious and inviting – just like their wines. The 2006 Cabernet is a perfect reflection of this. Made in a grand style, it offers a layered and complex nose and palate. Well structured, elegant and loaded with expressions of pure fruit, it is simply lovely. The ideal companion for barbecued gourmet burgers and grilled steaks or more elaborate and formal roasts. My note: Classic California Cabernet and stupendously structured. Rich and carefully hand-crafted for maximum and prolonged pleasure. Drink: 2011-2018. 977173 14.20% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 90/100. July 23, 2011
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[ Compress ] Rosés

Mission Hill Five Vineyards Rosé 2010, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Fine light pink rosé sourced from five prime vineyards throughout the Okanagan. Aromas of sandalwood, sweet cherry, blueberry and red grapefruit. Dry (bordering on off-dry) with very good cherry and blueberry replays. It is nicely balanced by a mid-palate acidity. Medium bodied with a medium-long, fresh and fruity finish. Ready to drink. My note: Field raspberries sand strawberries that waft aromatically through sun-dappled tiny flowers. Drink: 2011-2013. 229716 12.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. July 23, 2011
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Fielding Estate Rosé 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Lovely field freshness with aromas of tiny pale raspberries in a satin basket. Mouth-watering and genuinely delicious. Drink: 2011-2013. 53421 12.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011
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Domaine De La Petite Roche Cabernet D'anjou 2010, A.C., Loire, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A Gold Medal winner at the 2011 Concours Général Agricole in Paris. Salmon pink in colour with notes of strawberry, sweet herbs and watermelon. The palate is round with a sense of sweetness from the fruit – particularly the strawberry – as well as lovely structure and character. A medium-long fruity finish. Perfect for your next barbecue because it works so well as a sipper. My note: Lovely fleshy ripe field strawberries and raspberries. A white summer dress and thou. Mouth-watering and food friendly. Drink: 2011-2013. 224980 11% MD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Rosé.
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Château Montaud Rosé 2010, A.C., Côtes De Provence, Midi, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This tasty pink wine shows notes of strawberry, rhubarb, watermelon and gentle spice on the nose. Dry and medium bodied, it’s ripe, round and refreshing. Settle into a chaise lounge and soak up some rays as you sip this delicious rosé. My note: This is why I love rose from Provence! Light and summery yet packed with flavour! Perfectly calibrated for happiness. Drink: 2011-2013. 226613 12% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Rosé.
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Domaine Maby La Forcadière Rosé 2010, A.C., Tavel, Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Tavel, in the Southern Rhône, is famous for its lively, flavourful rosés; in fact, this is the only wine style made in the region. These wines were favoured by Louis XIV, and continue to impress today. This ripe, Grenache-centered blend is bursting with attractive red berry fruit, spicy garrigue, and a hint of cranberry, further enlivened by tangy acidity. My note: I buy this wine by the case every year it comes out. Bone-dry and refreshing with aromas of field raspberries and happiness. Mouth-watering and perfect. Drink: 2011-2015. 701318 13.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated Rosé.
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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.
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[ Compress ] Sparkling Wine

R. Pouillon & Fils Brut Cuvée De Réserve Champagne, A.C., Champagne, France: Lovely and elegant with a long finish. Toasted bread and green apple vibrancy. Drink: 2011-2016. 160937 12% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated Sparkling Wine.
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Mausberg Brut Blanc De Blancs Crémant D'alsace, A.C., Alsace, France: Toasty and refreshing with an expensive looking label which is always a plus at fancy get-togethers where you don’t want to blow the budget but serve good stuff. White peach and melon and baked bread. Drink: 2011-2015. 171785 12% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Sparkling Wine.
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Canard-Duchêne Brut Rosé Champagne, A.C., Champagne, France: Love it! Flavourful but not extremely rose like … mild strawberry notes but mostly toasty goodness. Drink: 2011-2016. 222620 12% XD 750 mL $52.95 Score: 91/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated Sparkling Wine.
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Tenuta S. Anna Genagricola Extra Dry Prosecco, D.O.P., Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: As with France, Italian producers are beginning to move away from the DOC designations in favour of the EU-approved designations. In this case, the new designation is DOP, which means Denominazione di Origine Protteta (a protected designation of origin). My note: Love it! Crisp and toasty with a touch melon sweetness. Drink: 2011-2014. 169128 11.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 23, 2011
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[ Compress ] Dessert Wine

Quinta Da Pedra Alta Fine Tawny Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Gorgeous tawny goodness with toffeed almonds and caramel lusciousness. Perfect for after dinner. 225144 20% S 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. July 23, 2011 Best Value Dessert Wine.
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Vintages Wine Picks July 23, 2011

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