Values Wine Picks May 13, 2010

by Natalie MacLean

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Note: I publish batches of reviews that I call Good Values Wine Picks. These are from the regular section of the liquor store rather than the Vintages section, and tend to be lower priced and the most widely available of all wines. The last four reviews I did were: March 7, January 4, December 16 and November 20.

[ Compress ] White Wine

Boschendal 1685 Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A fresh herbal character from a cooler vintage than 2008. Lots of lime, lemon and chives here. Terrific! 13% XD 750 mL $16.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Nederburg Ingenuity White Blend 2008, South Africa: A blend of eight grapes but primarily Sauvignon Blanc. Good weight and acidity with herbal and grapefruit notes. 13.10% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Nederburg Manor House Sauvignon Blanc 2009, South Africa: Grassy good with good acidity and herbal notes on the palate. Some green pepper on the finish. 13.40% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 86/100. May 13, 2010
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Nederburg Riesling 2009, South Africa: Pretty floral and peach aromas, very aromatic and unwooded. Mouth-watering acidity makes a great food companion. 13% XD 750 mL $10.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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KWV The Mentors Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2009, South Africa: Grassy good with mouth-watering aromas of gooseberry and limes. Semillon adds depth and complexity to the blend as well as richness. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Roodeberg White 2009, South Africa: This lovely blend of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and a little Viognier has a gorgeous floral nose, highly aromatic. Good balance with a medium-bodied weight. Terrific aperitif or pair it with Asian dishes and mild to medium curries. 14% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Boschendal 1685 Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Herbal zesty notes with lime and grapefruit. Full-bodied and rich yet still refreshing. This wines comes from a warm vintage. 13% XD 750 mL $16.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Bellingham Bernard Series Chenin Blanc 2008, Franschhoek, South Africa: Lovely balance with incredibly rich and rewarding aromas of lemon zest, lanolin, green apples and peach blossom. About 20% of this wine was barrel aged. Drink: 2010-2014. 13.50% XD 750 mL $23.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Bon Cap Wine Cellar The Ruins Chardonnay Verdelho Viognier 2008, Robertson, South Africa: Toasty, smoky green apple aromas on the nose. Full-bodied with a generous texture. Made from organically grown grapes. 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Bon Cap Wine Cellar Viognier 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Lovely, refreshing white that's not too floral. Good balance with honey blossom, dried peach and apricot notes. Crisp citrus finish. 14.70% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Man Vintners Chenin Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Lovely floral, guava, honeysuckle and pineapple on the nose. The vines grow in shale soils which gives them a lanolin richness. Drink: 2010-2013. 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay 2008, Hemel-En-Aarde, Hermanus, South Africa: The luxurious white pear and lime notes in the wine cut through the richness of cream dishes. The Chardonnay’s vanilla-smoke finish comes from the barrels made from oak imported from the French forests of Alliers, Vosges and Troncais which air dries on the estate to infuse them with crisp, icy winds of the Atlantic. Drink: 2010-2016. 13% XD 750 mL $38.00 Score: 93/100. May 13, 2010
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Rustenberg Roussanne 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Pretty floral wine with fragrant notes of peach and apricot. The palate is complex and layered with a voluptuous full-bodied richness. A lovely pineapple-infused finish. Drink: 2010-2015. 14.50% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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Rustenberg Chardonnay 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A big, buttery rich Chardonnay with terrific balancing acidity. Aromas of green apples, lanolin, orange zest and almonds. About 35% of this wine was aged in new oak barrels for 12 months. Drink: 2010-2014. 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Creation Wines Viognier 2009, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Terrific balance between the vibrant green apple notes and the warm, toasty oak. Richly fruity with great acidity. Finishes clean. Drink: 2010-2013. 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Creation Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Very refreshing with lovely lime-green melon aromas. Some tropical fruit and elderflower with mouth-watering crispness. Drink: 2010-2012. 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Sumaridge Maritimus Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Semillon 2009, Upper Hemel-En-Aarde Valley, Walker Bay, South Africa: Nicely balanced with fresh green apples and an ocean briny marine-depth. Nice line of acidity is taken up with the green apple flavours. Terrific! 13.70% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Reyneke Wines Reserve White Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine spent 16 months in barrel and offers lovely floral, citrus and stone fruit aromas. Perfectly balanced with incredible depth and intensity and a long quince-infused finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 94/100. May 13, 2010
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Haut Espoir Viognier 2008, Franschhoek, South Africa: Lovely floral aromatics with a full-bodied, generous texture. Stunning! Drink: 2010-2014. 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 89/100. May 13, 2010
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Springfield Estate Special Cuvee Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Lovely vibrant lime notes with some tropical aromas and great minerality and flintiness. The grapes for this refreshing wine were picked at night to preserve their mouth-watering acidity. Fantastic! Drink: 2010-2015. 13% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Ashbourne Sandstone Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay 2006, Hemel-En-Aarde, Hermanus, South Africa: This sauvignon blanc does particularly well in sandstone. It contributes a mineral-marine depth to this zesty wine. The chardonnay was fermented in clay amphora, which allows for a small oxidation similar to oak barrels, so it fattens its texture. Drink: 2010-2016. 13% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Vergelegen Estate Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine has terrific herbal aromas with nettle, gooseberry and a deep minerality. It's mouth-watering and refreshing. As it matures, the aromas will turn to more tropical notes with some elderflower. Drink: 2010-2013. 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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KWV The Mentors Viognier 2009, South Africa: Full-bodied with pretty floral aromas, white pepper, rose petal and white peach. Rich and voluptuous. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Newton Johnson Chardonnay 2008, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: A savoury tension holds this wine together. There's lovely green apple notes on a wine that's been sun-kissed with a touch of toasty oak. A hazelnut-infused finish. Superb effort! Drink: 2010-2015. 13% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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Fish Hoek Sauvignon Blanc 2009, South Africa: Terrific lime freshness with balanced acidity. Mouth-watering and refreshing; makes a great aperitif or companion to many dishes. Drink: 2010-2012. 129726 13% XD 750 mL $10.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Cathedral Cellar Chardonnay 2009, Western Cape, South Africa: Fantastic Chardonnay: big, oaky and buttery yes, but not too heavy. Generous and rich with flavour yet balanced. I love the wines from this producer. Ripe peaches and pears with layers of lovely rich flavours. Very satisfying. A Grand Ole Opré wine. Pair with: lobster, king crab in butter, Asian dishes with black bean sauces, pork, seafood or recipes that have a cream base. 328559 13% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 89/100. May 13, 2010
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Obikwa Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Durbanville Hills, South Africa: Vintages Wine Panel: Pale straw colour; lightly tropical aromas of green pineapple, guava and pear fruit with pleasant herbal notes; light- to medium-bodied with crisp, green apple flavours. My note: A grassy-good Sauvignon Blanc with wake-up aromas of gooseberry, asparagus, chives, limes and green apples. Zippy and refreshing. Perfect as an aperitif. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Food matches: light poultry dishes, seafood, salads. 527465 11.40% XD 750 mL $9.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Cathedral Cellar Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Western Cape, South Africa: South African Sauvignon Blancs are fantastic values and this one is no exception! Lovely aromas of lime, grapefruit and lemon zest. Crisp mouth-watering acidity. Grassy goodness wrapped with in mouth-watering notes of lemons and green apples on the finish. Terrific aperitif or food companion. Pair with: seafood casserole, asparagus dishes. 662718 13% XD 750 mL $12.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Meerlust Chardonnay 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Big, buttery and bold with gorgeous quince and citrus notes. Very alluring. Terrific acidity brings balance. Rich and full-bodied on the palate. A hazelnut-infused finish. Drink: 2010-2014. 663419 14% XD 750 mL $24.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Bouchard Finlayson Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Crisp with notes of lime, chives and lemon peel. Mouth-watering and refreshing. Perfect as an aperitif or companion to many dishes. Drink: 2010-2014. 701540 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This round, luscious and full-bodied Chardonnay has aromas of green apple and lovely smoky oak. It's wonderfully balanced and superbly made. Drink: 2010-2016. 717090 14% XD 750 mL $22.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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Fairview Viognier 2010, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Fairview Wine Estate was the first in South Africa to plant Viognier about ten years ago. This lovely white was partially aged in oak barrels, which gives the wine added creaminess and texture along with aromas of passion fruit, white peach, Asian pear and smoke. It has a gorgeous full-bodied weight that ends in a satisfying long finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 906487 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Graham Beck Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Lemon-fresh zestiness jumps out of the glass! Mouth-watering acidity with terrific herbal and green melon notes. Perfect as an aperitif or companion to many dishes, from seafood and vegetarian fare. Drink: 2010-2014. 948620 13% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 89/100. May 13, 2010
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Flagstone Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Coastal Region, South Africa: Mineral richness and depth with refreshing notes of lime, lemongrass, and chives. Superb effort! Drink: 2010-2015. 96537 13% XD 750 mL $16.00 Score: 89/100. May 13, 2010
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[ Compress ] Red Wine

Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Creamy texture with toasty oak and buttery notes on the nose. Loaded with green apple and lime aromas. This wine was whole bunch pressed and fermented and aged in the barrel for 15 months, 80% new oak. Terrific structure and length. Drink: 2010-2016. 107375 14% XD 750 mL $42.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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Rustenberg John X Merriman Cabernet Blend 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Enticing cigar box and black plum on the nose lead to cassis and blackberry on a fleshy palate with full-bodied weight and polished tannins. Layered and nuanced with terrific aging potential. Drink: 2010-2020. 14% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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Creation Wines Cabernet Blend 2008, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Terrific balance, structure and depth. Makes a halo of flavour across your palate of sumptuous blackberries, blackcurrants and peppered raspberries. A lovely dark smoky finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Creation Wines Pinot Noir 2009, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Invigorating and abundantly fleshy ripe cherries with a silky smooth texture and excellent depth of flavour. Mixed berries and vanilla smoke on the finish. Yum! Drink: 2010-2016. 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Creation Wines Syrah Grenache 2008, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Full-bodied weight with a smooth, generous texture. Loaded with black plums, tapenade, pepper and smoke. Terrific length on the finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 89/100. May 13, 2010
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Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir 2009, Hemel-En-Aarde, Hermanus, South Africa: Decadently rich, ripe cherries with velvet wrap-around tannins. A sumptuous wine to dive into head first. Drink: 2010-2018. 13.85% XD 750 mL $44.00 Score: 95/100. May 13, 2010
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Spier Private Collection Pinotage 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine has spectacular dark fruit with great concentration. It was aged 18 months in French oak which gives it a toasty richness and smoky finish. Lovely! Drink: 2010-2014. 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 93/100. May 13, 2010
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Spier Private Collection Shiraz 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Spicy and racy with exciting aromas of rich dark plums and a cinnamon finish. Full-bodied and supple. Exotic and bewitching. A modern European style with more savoury than sweet fruit. Drink: 2010-2015. 15% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Sumaridge Epitome Shiraz Pinotage Merlot 2007, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Fleshy fruit up front followed by spices and smoke on the finish with a lovely fullness on the middle palate. Drink: 2010-2016. 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Sumaridge Pinot Noir 2008, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Very fleshy berries and cherries with a supple satin texture. Not a lot of oak, but it adds a nice back note of spice. A long finish. Drink: 2010-2014. 13.40% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Bon Cap Wine Cellar Perfect Blend Cabernet Sauvignon Pinotage Shiraz 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Juicy and mouth-watering with a full-bodied weight. Aromas of black raspberries, coffee and smoke. Lovely! 14.80% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Bon Cap Wine Cellar The Ruins Pinotage 2009, Robertson, South Africa: A supple, smoky, dark-fruited red with ripe black cherry, coffee and cigar box aromas. Medium- to full-bodied. 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Bon Cap Wine Cellar Cape Blend Cabernet Sauvignon Pinotage Petit Verdot 2006, Robertson, South Africa: A juicy, full-bodied, supple red with notes of blackberry, fresh earth and vanilla spice. A savoury middle note is terrific. 13% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Bon Cap Wine Cellar The Ruins Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Robertson, South Africa: A smooth, full-bodied red with lovely aromas of black plums, cinnamon, dark berries and cassis. Terrific balance and complexity. The wines was made from organically grown grapes. 14.80% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Man Vintners Reserve Shiraz 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Plush and luscious with rich ripe notes of black plums. Not jammy, lots of freshness on the finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Stark-Condé Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This unfiltered and unfined wine has lots of stuffing and flavour! It was aged for 22 months in French oak. IN addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, there's 6% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc. Loaded with cassis and blackcurrant flavour feathery tannins. Drink: 2010-2014. 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Meerlust Merlot 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Classic Bordeaux-like structure with voluptuously ripe plums and berries and a hint of a herbal note on the mid-palate. Terrific acidity. Decant for 1-2 hours. A cedary clean finish. Drink: 2010-2014. 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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De Toren Private Cellar Fusion V Cabernet Blend 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Cabernet sauvignon leads in this exquisite blend (55%) with classic Bordeaux styling. A satisfyingly chewy depth of flavour reveals blackberry, nougat, licorice and cigar box. This wine has it all in a sensory fusion: elegance, power, length and concentration. The wine was aged for 12 months in 50% new oak and 50% second fill, mostly French in a climatized barrel room at 16 degrees Celsius and 80% humidity. Polished tannins with a massive structure will give this red many years in the cellar. Drink: 2010-2010. 14.50% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. May 13, 2010
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De Toren Private Cellar Fusion Z Merlot Cabernet 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Wow! Richly layered with Bordeaux structure and balance. The power and vitality of South African fruit. Merlot is 47% of the blend, with Cabernet France 27% and Cabernet Sauvignon 10%. Lushly ripe blackberries and black raspberries tumble across your mouth wrapped in a smoky finish. A wine to remember. Drink: 2010-2016. 14.50% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 93/100. May 13, 2010
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De Toren Private Cellar Fusion V Cabernet Blend 2005, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Gorgeous Bordeaux-like structure and maturity. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and the traditional Bordeaux grapes. Tertiary aromas emerge such as violets, dried tobacco, herbs, leather and cigar box. Superb! Drink: 2010-2018. 14.50% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. May 13, 2010
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Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A blend of 45% Pinotage, 17% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Cabernet Franc. Rounded fruit and texture with plush dark cherries, plums and a spicy finish. Full-bodied and lovely. Drink: 2010-2020. 14% XD 750 mL $60.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Made from grapes on trellised old vines. A classic style with blackberry, cassis and blackcurrant. Full-bodied, complex, deep and long. Some cigar box and violets on the finish. Drink: 2010-2018. 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Amani Vineyards Kamili Chardonnay Viognier 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Lovely floral aromas infused with green apples, apricot and melon. Terrific acidity. There’s a Condrieu aspect to it with ginger and white pepper. Mouth-watering acidity folds all the flavours together and magnifies them. It would be perfect with smoke-cured ostrich carpaccio. Drink: 2010-2015. 13.50% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Amani Vineyards Pinotage 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine has a luxurious palate weight, loaded with peppered raspberries, black cherry, licorice and mocha spice. A smoky, velvet plum heart slowly emerges. Drink: 2010-2018. 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 94/100. May 13, 2010
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Amani Vineyards Cabernet Franc Merlot 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine is a blend of cabernet franc and merlot that’s a savoury mix of blueberries, coffee and graphite. The nose is on the move, changing now from blackberries to darker, tarry notes. Cabernet franc gives tannin weight and structure; merlot imparts plushness and fleshiness to the wine. 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 93/100. May 13, 2010
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Amani Vineyards Jordan Meyers Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (40%) and Shiraz (60%) has a luxurious, concentrated richness with dark plums, blackberries and vanilla rootbeer (sarsaparilla) on the finish. Full-bodied and supple. Superb! Drink: 2010-2016. 15% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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Ken Forrester Shiraz Grenache 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This fantastic red blend is full-bodied, supple and lip-smacking delicious! It has juicy dark plums with a terrific peppery finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 14% XD 750 mL $19.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Kanu Keystone Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Merlot 2005, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Dark fruit with smoky concentration. Full-bodied and supple. Very satisfying. Drink: 2010-2015. 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Le Bonheur Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine was barrel aged for 19 months. It's plush, supple with aromas of dark plums and dark berries. Merlot is 70% of the blend. Lovely! Drink: 2010-2016. 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Kleinood Syrah Viognier Mourvèdre 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Classic styling and lovely balance in this full-bodied red with aromas of dark berries and other fruit. Terrific long finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Rust En Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Classic Cabernet styling with dark berry and cassis aromas. Stunning depth, length and power. This is a wine that will keep well in the cellar. Drink: 2010-2020. 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 93/100. May 13, 2010
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Viljoensdrift Serenity Cabernet Blend 2005, Robertson, South Africa: A classic Bordeaux blend of grapes with punched up fruit aromas. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2010-2014. 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Newton Johnson Syrah 2007, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: A luxurious wine of liquid black plums that roll down a velvet carpet of violets. Full-bodied, concentrated and supple with a long finish. Drink: 2010-2018. 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 93/100. May 13, 2010
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Rustenberg Syrah 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Mocha-rich, blackberry-smoke nose with mouth-watering flavours of clove, bacon and violets on the palate. Wow! This is a meaty, savoury wine but doesn't come off as heavy: terrific balance. Deep concentration of flavour with a lovely long finish. Make it a special occasion by opening this bottle tonight. This wine will be part of the Vintages October 2010 release. Drink: 2010-2016. 14.50% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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KWV The Mentors Orchestra Cabernet Blend 2007, South Africa: Well-structured red with beautiful balance and length. Classic aromas of cassis and blackcurrant. Very dry on the finish. Drink: 2010-2015. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Boschendal 1685 Shiraz 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Supple, full-bodied with dark plums and blackberries and a little pepper. This wine spent 12 months in the barrel with 20% new oak. 14% XD 750 mL $19.00 Score: 89/100. May 13, 2010
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Nederburg Ingenuity Red Blend 2007, South Africa: This wine spent 24 months in oak 14.60% XD 750 mL $18.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Nederburg Manor House Shiraz 2007, South Africa: Plummy, rich and dark with full-bodied weight and a supple texture. Toasty oak finish. 14.10% XD 750 mL $18.00 Score: 86/100. May 13, 2010
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KWV The Mentors Petit Verdot 2008, South Africa: Good tannic grip so it needs aging. Mouth-watering black fruit, smoky notes and not too much oak. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Roodeberg Red Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot 2008, South Africa: Ripe plums and berries; very supple for easy and early drinking. Judicious use of oak aging. This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Boschendal Pavilion Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Lovely ripe fleshy dark berries and other fruits on the nose. Full-bodied weight with a lush texture, supple, fresh, not tannic. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Flagstone Shiraz 2008, Coastal Region, South Africa: Smoky dark plums with fleshy blackberries in this full-bodied wonder. Some earthy notes and black pepper on the finish. Terrific! Drink: 2010-2016. 127654 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Fish Hoek Shiraz 2009, South Africa: A juicy, full-bodied, supple red with fleshy ripe plums and berries. Perfect for parties and casual get-togethers. Drink: 2010-2013. 129734 13% XD 750 mL $10.00 Score: 86/100. May 13, 2010
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The Winery Of Good Hope Pinot Noir 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Black cherries and a silky texture. Grapes come from the Elgin region, which is cool and high altitude with cloud cover. The vines experience true dormancy in the winter and therefore have deeper root systems and pick up more nuances. Complex and lovely. Drink: 2010-2014. 146415 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 89/100. May 13, 2010
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Spice Route Chakalaka, Fairview Syrah Blend 2008, Swartland, South Africa: A gorgeous blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Tannat, Petit Sirah, Souzau, and Carignan. Terrific dark fleshy fruit with a mouth-watering ripeness roll across the palate. There's power, concentration and balance here with a lingering long finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 160481 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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Durbanville Hills Shiraz 2007, Durbanville Hills, South Africa: Terrific big black smoky fruit with earthy notes. Incredibly juicy and full-bodied yet smooth in texture. Delicious, lip-smacking finish! Drink: 2010-2013. 22269 13.50% XD 750 mL $12.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Delheim Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Elegant and balanced with lots of delicious blackberry and cassis aromas. Full-bodied yet supple. Superb effort! Drink: 2010-2016. 35394 14% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Boekenhoutskloof Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Franschhoek, South Africa: This wine spent 27 months in new oak. It offers enticing aromas of cedar, cassis, blackcurrant and spices. Full-bodied and concentrated. Terrific! Drink: 2010-2018. 52084 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Bellingham Shiraz Viognier 2007, Franschhoek, South Africa: This wine spent 12 months in oak,; it's mostly Shiraz with just a splash of Viognier to lift the mid-palate. It offers blackberry, violet, purple liqueur aromas with a rich, concentrated flavour core. Great party wine. Drink: 2010-2012. 554360 14% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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Rustenberg Peter Barlow Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A towering wine and massive structure supports fleshy ripe black fruit with great concentration: cassis, blackberry, blackcurrant. Classically styled. Drink: 2012-2018. 55574 14% XD 750 mL $59.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Cathedral Cellar Shiraz 2008, Western Cape, South Africa: Old World balance of the southern Rhône with New World power and fruit. Bursting with ripe blackberry, black raspberry, cedar, leather and pepper. I love this producer! Savoury, mouth-watering juicy black fruit with layers of succulent berries and plums. Pair with: beef stews, pastas, beef, lamb. 561142 14% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2009, Franschhoek, South Africa: Nice oak integration in this full-bodied, dark-fruited red. Lush middle palate with a spicy long finish. This wine has Northern Rhone leanings. Drink: 2010-2014. 595280 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Robertson Winery Shiraz 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Luscious blackberries and plums with a full-bodied, smooth texture. Terrific party wine! Drink: 2010-2012. 610949 14% XD 750 mL $12.00 Score: 86/100. May 13, 2010
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Meerlust Rubicon Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A layered wine with Old World elegance and New World fruit. This red possesses aromas of black fruit and smoke. A towering structure holds peppered blackberry, cassis, cedar box and herbal notes. Classic styling. Incredible length and depth and aging potential. Truly one of South Africa's icon wines. Drink: 2010-2010. 64329 14% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 95/100. May 13, 2010
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The Chocolate Block Boekenhoutskloof Syrah Grenache Cabernet Sauvignon Cinsault Viognier 2008, Franschhoek, South Africa: Rich and full-bodied with dark chocolate and black plums on the nose. Incredible depth and power. This wine is a blend of Syrah (69%), Grenache (12%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%) Cinsault (7%) and Viognier (2%). Drink: 2010-2017. 656512 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Meerlust Pinot Noir 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Highly perfumed with fleshy cherries and baking spices on the nose such as cinnamon and clove. Rose petals and wild strawberry mingle in the glass. Terrific zingy, mouth-watering acidity. About 70% of the wine was aged in new French oak for 11 months. Stunningly long finish. Drink: 2010-2014. 663401 14% XD 750 mL $29.00 Score: 91/100. May 13, 2010
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Two Oceans Shiraz 2009, Durbanville Hills, South Africa: Juicy purple plums, blueberries and blackberries with a supple, smooth texture. Full-bodied but not too heavy or oaky. Drink: 2010-2012. 699249 13.50% XD 750 mL $10.00 Score: 87/100. May 13, 2010
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The Winery Of Good Hope Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This winery excels at Cabernet Sauvignon and has produced a wonderful wine for the price point. The grapes come from 30 to 50 year old vines, yielding a depth of concentration in flavour and intensity. It's aged on its lees, which have a genetic link to the vineyard site and provide richness and continuity. Aromas of cassis and blackberry. Full-bodied and supple. Drink: 2010-2015. 8748 13.50% XD 750 mL $12.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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Boschendal Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This dark, brooding wine has a good tannic grip on the palate so it needs some time in your cellar to soften. If you can't wait, then decant it for at least two hours before drinking. Gorgeous aromas of fleshy blackberries and some tar on the finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 89656 14% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Boschendal Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Shiraz 2005, Stellenbosch, South Africa: An elegant, classically made Cabernet blend with lovely aromas of cassis and blackberry. This wine spent 20 months in oak barrels which gives it a smoky, rich texture. Drink: 2010-2018. 89656 14% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2010
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Bouchard Finlayson Pinot Noir 2008, Hemel-En-Aarde, Hermanus, South Africa: Silky and seductive with fleshy ripe cherries, violets, fresh earth. Power and elegance meet in this wine with great length. Drink: 2010-2016. 983031 13.50% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 94/100. May 13, 2010
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Cathedral Cellar Pinotage 2008, Western Cape, South Africa: If you don't know Pinotage as a grape very well, start with this wine. It's South Africa's flagship grape the way California has Zinfandel. Savoury notes of bacon, fleshy black cherry and vanilla smoke. It’s got a velvet texture with a dry medium-full-bodied weight and flavours flavours of cocoa, coffee, and blackberry jam with a dark spiced finish. Smoky oak weaves it way through the wine. Lovely! Pair with: grilled lamb steaks. 99267 14% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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[ Compress ] Rosés

Delheim Pinotage Rose 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Lovely strawberry and raspberry notes. Bone-dry and refreshing. Terrific rose! 721670 12.50% XD 750 mL $12.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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[ Compress ] Sparkling Wine

Bon Cap Wine Cellar Classique Brut Sparkling Wine 2006, Robertson, South Africa: Terrific freshness in this sparkling wine that's a blend of 72% Chardonnay and 28% Pinot Noir. Lovely notes of green apples and toast. Made from organically grown grapes. 11.70% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Bon Cap Wine Cellar The Ruins Colombard 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Crisp and toasty with lively notes of green apples and grapefruit. This wine was made from organically grown grapes. 12.50% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 85/100. May 13, 2010
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Boschendal Grand Cuvee Brut Sparkling Wine 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes go into this lovely bubbly made from the method cap classique (Champagne method). Toasty, crisp, refreshing with lovely green apple notes and a biscuity finish. 12.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 13, 2010
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[ Compress ] Dessert Wine

Nederburg Winemaster's Reserve Noble Late Harvest Chenin Blanc 2009, South Africa: Gorgeous depth and length and richness with lovely apricot preserves aromas and honey. No oak on this wine. The grapes were affected by botrytis: a very good thing indeed! 11% S 750 mL $12.00 Score: 90/100. May 13, 2010
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Values Wine Picks May 13, 2010

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