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Values Wine Picks October 7, 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 Chardonnay Nottage Hill, Australia: An oaky, smoky wine with green apple notes. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: roast chicken.  283457  14%  D  750 mL  $11.45  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Cookoothama Chardonnay, Darlighton Point, Australia: A round, warm Chardonnay with ripe apples, butter, vanilla and melon. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: roast chicken, corn.  619403  14%  D  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Hillebrand Winery Muscat Artist Series, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Lovely notes of orange blossom. Light-bodied. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: Asian dishes, fruit-based desserts.  222222  11%  D  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Mike Weir Wine Chardonnay, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A balanced Chardonnay that has rich buttery, green apple notes without going overboard. Pair with: grilled chicken, pan-seared scallops.  26  13%  D  750 mL  $15.96  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Hillebrand Winery Pinot Gris Limited Edition, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A pretty, vivacious white with lovely, light notes of field flowers and melon. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: seafood, vegetarian dishes, salads.  333333  13%  D  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Pinot Grigio Ocopogo's Lair, Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada: Lovely, sunny melon, peach and floral notes. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: creamy pastas, baked foccacia, basil, rosemary.  555555  14%  D  750 mL  $16.15  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Pinot Gris, Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada: A luxurious Pinot Gris with layers of ripe melons and pears. Luscious texture. Pair with: pork, chicken, pasta. Drink: 2008-2011.  585745  14%  D  750 mL  $20.00  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Malivoire Wine Company Pinot Gris, Ontario, Canada: A crisp, refreshing white with lovely melon notes. Nice balance. Good aperitif. Pair with: chicken, pork, shellfish.  591305  13%  XD  750 mL  $19.00  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Angels Gate Winery Riesling Reserve, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Lovely, light sipper with enticing notes of melon, pear and white field flowers. Pair with: salmon, stuffed chicken, salads.  620104  14%  D  750 mL  $14.15  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Hillebrand Winery Riesling Artist Series, V.Q.A. Niagara, Canada: A gorgeous and refreshing Riesling bursting with delicate white flowers and green apples. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: pork, chicken, light curries.  88377  12%  D  750 mL  $10.75  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Malivoire Wine Company Gewurztraminer, Ontario, Canada: Lovely, subtle white packed with flavor. Notes of lychee, ginger and roses. Medium-bodied. Pair with: pork roast, lobster, pizza. Drink: 2008-2013.  89897  13%  XD  750 mL  $25.80  Score: 92/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Cono Sur Viognier, Chile: A refreshing, simple white with wild field flowers, lime and apricot. Pair with: sushi, light curries, shellfish.  64287  14%  D  750 mL  $9.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 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: A vibrant, mouth-watering white with grapefruit and lime aromas. Pair with: vegetable dishes, seafood, chicken.  11452  12%  D  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Remy Pannier Sauvignon Blanc, Loire Valley, France: A well-priced, simple, refreshing wine with notes of grass and a good mouth-watering acidity. Pair with: seafood, salad, vegetarian dishes, pork, chicken.  68676  12%  D  750 mL  $10.90  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Louis Jadot Chardonnay, Burgundy, France: Classic Burgundian lines with now mellow richness. Ripe apples, butter and smoke fill the glass. Full-bodied. Pair with: pasta in cream sauce, seafood risotto.  933077  13%  D  750 mL  $20.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2008 Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand: Bursting with herbal refreshment. A consistently good producer year after year. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: shellfish, seafood riotto, vegetarian dishes, chicken in creamy sauces, scallops.  316570  13%  XD  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Babich Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand: Herbal refreshment. Notes of grass and lime. Pair with: seafood, vegetarian.  620054  14%  D  750 mL  $17.90  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Rodney Strong Wine Estates Zinfandel, Sonoma County, California, United States: Zinfandel vines have been thriving in Sonoma County for the last three centuries. When Rod Strong first acquired benchland acreage on the west side of Russian River, they chose to leave untouched the 15 acres of old, gnarled zinfandel vines that had been growing there since 1904. Today they still harvest zinfandel from those same old vines, along with a handful of vineyards to the north in Alexander Valley. A rich, warm Zinfandel with excellent balance. Smooth and full-bodied with notes of dark plums and berries. Pair with: hamburgers. steak, stew, boar. Drink: 2008-2012.  363358  14%  XD  750 mL  $20.00  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Toasted Head Chardonnay, California, United States: A luxuriously layered Chardonnay with gorgeous notes of ripe mango and toasted oak. Pair with: pork, chicken, corn dishes.  594341  14%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Conundrum Sauvignon Blanc White Blend, California, United States: Every time I try this wine, I fall in love again (with the wine). Exotic blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Viognier and Muscat Canelli. This delicious white yields lychee, rose petals, lime and white flowers. So beautifully aromatic. Pair with: Asian curries, pork, chicken.  694653  14%  D  750 mL  $26.95  Score: 92/100. October 7, 2008 Favorite White Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 E. & J. Gallo Winery Pinot Grigio, California, United States: You just can't argue with this price. A simple but refreshing white with melon-lime notes. Pair with: pate, fish, chicken, salads.  82594  13%  D  750 mL  $8.95  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Robert Mondavi Chardonnay Woodridge, California, United States: A blend of 80% Chardonnay, 6% French Colombard, 5% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Semillon, 2% Viognier and 2% Muscat. A simple, oaky Chardonnay with some pear notes. Full-bodied. Pair with: corn dishes, roast chicken.  99408  14%  D  750 mL  $13.45  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


[ Compress ] Red Wine

2006 Bodega Catena Zapata Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina: A robust red with blackberries, tobacco and plum notes. Pair with: steak, stew, boar, game.  478727  14%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Marcus James Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina: A simple, but tasty, robust red. Pair with: hamburgers.  518431  14%  D  750 mL  $9.25  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Fuzion Shiraz Malbec, Argentina: An outstanding value for this deep, delicious red. Pair with: steak, hamburgers.  83188  13%  XD  750 mL  $7.45  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Best Value Red Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Shiraz Nottage Hill, South Australia, Australia: A robust red bursting with berry-ripe layers of plums and toasty oak aromas. Pair with: steak.  375964  14%  D  750 mL  $13.45  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Wolf Blass Cabernet Sauvignon Grey Label, Langhorne Creek, Australia: First a wisp of minty coolness on the nose. Then the full-on rush of hedonistic black plums and blackberries. Pair with: rare steak.  470120  15%  D  750 mL  $36.00  Score: 92/100. October 7, 2008 Favorite Red Wine. Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Penfolds Barossa Shiraz Thomas Hyland, Adelaide, Australia: This wine gets better every year, the result of years of experience. Classically structured with Bordeaux-like balance and elegance, but the power of New World fruit and vitality. Pair with: grilled steak, game, beef roasts, hard cheeses, gourmet hamburgers.  611210  14%  D  750 mL  $20.95  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Cookoothama Shiraz, Australia: An amazingly great value! A vibrant Shiraz filled with black cherries and other berries. Smooth with a gorgeous texture. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: gourmet hamburgers, peppercorn steak, mature cheeses, turkey dinner with traditional trimmings, leg of lamb.  619460  14%  D  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Katnook Cabernet Sauvignon Founder's Block, Coonawarra, Australia: A splendidly robust Cabernet with classic mint, black plum and vanilla notes. Pair with: sausage, lasagna, steak.  620070  14%  D  750 mL  $17.00  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Yellow Tail Shiraz, Australia: A sweet, simple and delicious red with sweet dark plums. Revenge of the anti-snobs! Pair with: rare prime rib.  624544  14%  D  750 mL  $12.20  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 d'Arenberg Shiraz Vigonier The Laughing Magpie, Mclaren Vale, Australia: The vineyards bushland that surrounds the d'Arenberg winery are home to the unique native Australian bird, the Kookaburra, famous for its distinctive laughing call. Much to the amusement of the family, Chester Osborn's daughters, Alicia and Ruby, named their two wild pet Kookaburras the "Laughing Magpies". The Magpie plumage is black with stripe of white feathers and bears no resemblance to its famous cousin, but to this day the name has stuck. The Osborns thought the name was a good choice for McLaren Vale's first ever Shiraz Viognier blend combining the (black) Shiraz and its white partner, Viognier and for its being such a cheerful wine (with color and life) it resembles this cheeky native bird. I love the way Viognier brightens and lifts this robust red. Layers of plummy, cranberry goodness. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: roasted lamb.  936971  14%  XD  750 mL  $27.95  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 d'Arenberg Shiraz Grenache D'arny's Original, MClaren Vale, Australia: Powerful aromas of black cherry liqueur. Aged 18 months in oak. Blend of 50% Shiraz, 50% Grenache. Pair with: braised beef.  942904  14%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 d'Arenberg Shiraz The Footbolt, Mclaren Vale, Australia: d'Arenberg has been making Shiraz since the winery was built in 1927. First labeled just Shiraz, the wine in the 1980s was the first wine would to be labeled 'Old Vine', taking on the name 'The Old Vine Shiraz'. Footbolt was a horse that the founder of d'Arenberg owned. Joseph Osborn was also one of the most successful racehorse owners in South Australia until 1912 when he sold this stable to buy the d'Arenberg Property. The Footbolt Shiraz was aged 12 months in new and older American and French oak barriques including casks. Dense, dark, full-bodied red with black plums, cherries and pepper notes. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: steak, game.  984021  14%  XD  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Cabernet Franc, Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada: A highly aromatic Cabernet Franc, one of the best I've tasted of this single varietal. Loaded with dark red fruit and violets. Long finish and great balance. Pair with: tuna steaks with peppercorns, gourmet burgers, prime rib. Drink: 2009-2011.  111111  14%  D  750 mL  $33.00  Score: 91/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Hillebrand Winery Pinot Noir Pelee Island, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A soft, light-bodied red with pleasant and delicious strawberry layers filling the glass. Great value. Pair with: pasta in a rich tomato sauce, grilled salmon, chicken stuffed with goatcheese, herb crusted lamb.  135939  12%  D  750 mL  $12.45  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Pinot Noir, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A supple, medium-bodied red bursting with ripe cherries. Pair with: chicken, pork.  13904  12%  D  750 mL  $17.25  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Flat Rock Cellars Pinot Noir, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Medium- full-bodied red with aromas of dark red fruit and some mocha. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: grilled chicken, pan-seared scallops.  1545  12%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Cabernet Franc, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A good price for this medium-bodied red with notes of cranberry, cassis and bell pepper. Pair with: veal, pork roast with tamari.  27839  13%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Shiraz Red Willow, Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada: Conditions of budburst and flowering were excellent. The summer growing season was quintessential Okanagan, with low humidity and above average temperatures which lasted through October. A full-bodied Shiraz loaded with ripe blackberries and mocha notes. Pair with: barbequed beef ribs, lamb chops, honey-glazed vegetables.  444444  12%  D  750 mL  $18.15  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Jackson-Triggs Merlot Propietors Reserve, Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada: An incredible wine for the money. Rich and full-bodied with notes of black cherries and mocha. Pair with: rare steak in a mushroom sauce, lasagna.  543876  14%  D  750 mL  $14.75  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Malivoire Wine Company Rose, Ontario, Canada: A zippy, terrific, bone-dry rose with notes of ripe strawberries. Pair with: pate, salmon, pork.  559088  12%  D  750 mL  $16.00  Score: 91/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Hillebrand Winery Artist Series Meritage, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A lovely balanced red with delicious ripe plums and berries. Smooth, round and medium- to full-bodied. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: chicken, pasta.  56390  13%  D  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Merlot, Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada: A stunning Merlot with rich depths of black plums, cassis and smoke. Full-bodied with a velvet texture. Pair with: meat dishes.  585737  14%  D  750 mL  $30.00  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Inniskillin Wines Pinot Noir Reserve, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A lovely, light Pinot with ripe red plums and cherries filling the glass. Pair with: salmon, pork.  669390  12%  D  750 mL  $18.25  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Mission Hill Family Estate Merlot Family Estate Select Lot Collection, V.Q.A. Niagara, Canada: Full-bodied aromas of black plums and cherries. Supple, smooth and layered. Pleasant dark chocolate finish. Pair with: steak, stew, venison, boar.  68353  14%  XD  750 mL  $39.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Syrah, Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada: A huge wine with black fruit, bacon and pepper. Rich and full-bodied with a smooth texture. Pair with: hearty dishes, lamb, osso bucco, strong cheeses. Drink: 2008-2015.  73072  14%  D  750 mL  $38.00  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Merlot, V.Q.A. Niagara, Ontario, Canada: A vibrant Merlot filled with delicious blackberries and toasty oak notes. Pair with: beef tendeloin, strong cheeses, tomato based pasta, herb-crusted and goat cheese stuffed pork tendeloin.  89847  13%  D  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Malivoire Wine Company Pinot Noir, Ontario, Canada: Great bones and minerality. Redolent of cherries, violets, earth and happiness. Medium-bodied. Pair with: beef, duck, wild mushrooms, boar.  996777  13%  XD  750 mL  $32.00  Score: 93/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Santa Digna Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile: A well-structured, elegant and balanced Cabernet. Classic notes of cassis and blackberries. Pair with: steak, game.  177451  14%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 San Pedro Shiraz, Central Valley, Chile: A lovely, rich red with deep dark plums, mocha, leather and tobacco. Full-bodied. Pair with: roasted and grilled meats.  237800  14%  D  750 mL  $13.25  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Caliterra Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Colchagua Valley, Chile: A simple, robust red, but you can't beat the price! Full-bodied with blackberry notes. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: red meats.  257329  14%  D  750 mL  $11.90  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Concha Y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile: Barrel-aged in French oak for 14 months. Notes of blackberry, dried herbs and tobacco. Full-bodied. Pair with: red meat, game.  337238  14%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Cono Sur Pinot Noir, Chile: A smooth, medium-bodied red with ripe raspberry aromas. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: seared tuna, chicken, pork tenderloin in a red wine reduction.  341602  14%  D  750 mL  $10.45  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Perez Cruz Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Maipo Valley, Chile: An absolutely phenomenal wine for the money! Rich, robust with black plums and comfort. Pair with: spicy dishes, steak, hamburgers.  694208  14%  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Minervois, France: A full-bodied, dependable red filled with dark fruit. Pair with: smoky spare ribs, rack of lamb.  22384  13%  D  750 mL  $13.20  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 J.P. Chenet Grenache Shiraz, Minervois, France: A rustic, full-bodied red with black cherries and wild herb notes. Pair with: braised short ribs, gourmet pizza, pasta with meat sauce.  28597  13%  D  750 mL  $9.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Syrah Blend, Rhone Valley, Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, France: A full-bodied red with loose-yourself aromas of black cherry, garrigue, cedar and spice. Full-bodied with a difference. Pair with: steak, game.  926626  14%  D  750 mL  $35.95  Score: 91/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Dalton Cabernet Sauvignon Safsufa Vineyard, Israel: A balanced and tasty red that's kosher for passover. Notes of black raspberries and smoke. Smooth and full-bodied. Pair with: rare beef, lamb.  28266  14%  D  750 mL  $18.35  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 EW Efrat Winery Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon, Israel: A straight-forward, pleasant red that's kosher for Passover. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with: spice-encrusted steak.  613091  13%  D  750 mL  $14.70  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Canaletto Merlot Nero D'avola, Sicily, Italy: A rich, deep Merlot with ripe black plum notes. Pair with: strong cheeses, braised beef.  29421  13%  D  750 mL  $13.75  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Masi Amarone Classico Costasera, Valpolicilla, Italy: A rich, robust red with layers of dark plums, black cherries and tobacco. Long finish. Pair with: meat, game, cheddar cheese.  317057  15%  D  750 mL  $37.45  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Sella & Mosca Grenache Reserva Cannonau Do Sardegma, Sicily, Italy: A bright, vibrant red that's ideal for many Italian dishes. Notes of tart cherries and sundried tomatoes. Pair with: lasagna, tomato sauce, pizza.  425488  14%  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Zenato Ripassa, Veneto, Valpolicella, Italy: A rich, smooth, layered wine with dried cherries and black raspberries. Pair with: cheddar, lasagna.  479766  14%  D  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Tommasi Ripasso, Valpolicella, Italy: A lovely, balanced red with full-bodied notes of black plums, spice and cocoa. Pair with: stew, steak, meat dishes.  910430  13%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Castelmonte Cent'Are , Sicily, Italy Nero D'avola: Incredible value for this robust, rich red with aromas of black plums, tobacco and mocha. Pair with: steak, stew.  546192  13%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Sandeman Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz Duque De Viseu, Dao, Portugal: A terrific wine for the money. Full-bodied with notes of cassis and blackberries. Pair with: game meats, boar, steak.  546309  14%  D  750 mL  $12.85  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Quinta do Crasto Tinta Roriz Touriga Franca Touriga Nacional, Douro, Portugal: A blend of Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional. The grapes are hand picked in small plastic craters. Alcoholic fermentation during ten days in stainless still tankswith temperature control. A simple, robust wine that's remarkable for the price. Aromas of black berries and toasrty oak. Elegant with spice characters. Pair with: hamburgers, steak. Drink: 2008-2015.  81588  13%  XD  750 mL  $9.95  Score: 85/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Bellingham Shiraz, South Africa: The dash of Viognier in this wine lifts and brightens it. An incredible value. Plummy richness. Pair with: braised beef, cheeses, game.  554360  14%  D  750 mL  $13.85  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Cathedral Cellar Shiraz, South Africa: A rich, layered red with dark red fruit and hulking red fruit and a hulking oak wrap. Big, bulky and tasty. Pair with: steak, board, roast, grilled meats.  561142  14%  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Stormy Bay Cabernet Sauvignon, Western Cape, South Africa: A robust, structured Cabernet with blackberry aromas. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: stew, boar, steak.  665299  14%  D  750 mL  $11.75  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Red Knot Shiraz, Mclaren Vale, South Australia: A delicious, robust red at a great price. Filled with ripe, juicy plum notes. Pair with: boar, bell pepper.  619395  14%  D  750 mL  $17.15  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2004 Torres Cabernet Sauvignon Gran Coronas, Penedes, Spain: A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Tempranillo. A rich, robust and balanced red with cassis and blackcurrant notes. Pair with: barbequed meats, lasagna.  36483  14%  D  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Sterling Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, California, United States: A little pricey but a lovely red with classic structure and aromas of cassis and blackcurrant. Pair with: steak, game.  314575  14%  D  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Robert Mondavi Zinfandel Woodbridge, California, United States: Juicy, lip-smacking delicious and filled with purple plums. Great price. Pair with: lamb, pork tenderloin.  329110  14%  D  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 RavensWood Zinfandel Vintners Blend, California, United States: A juicy, delicious Zinfandel with brambleberry and blackberry notes. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with: barbecue, hamburgers, hearty pasta, chili, ribs, pizza.  359257  14%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Robert Mondavi Merlot, California, United States: A rich, layered, velvety red with dark plums and berries. Nice length and balance. Pair with: beef, game, meats.  524769  13%  M  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 89/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Smoking Loon Cabernet Sauvignon, California, United States: A smoky, mocha number with black plum aromas. Pair with: steak.  55517  14%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 88/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Francis Ford Coppola Shiraz, California, United States: A robust, smooth red with notes of dark chocolate and plums. Pair with: steak, stew.  57034  14%  D  750 mL  $15.35  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 R.H. Phillips Shiraz, California, United States: A great price for this smooth, easy-drinking red with mocha and plum notes. Full-bodied. Pair with: blackened salmon, back ribs.  576272  14%  D  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2005 Twin Fin Cabernet Sauvignon, California, United States: A simple, smooth, medium-bodied red with layers of plums and berries. Closed with a screwcap. Pair with: game, boar.  613273  14%  D  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon Seven Oaks, Paso Robles, California, United States: A smooth, long and elegant red. Rich aromas of black raspberry, vanilla and violets. Pair with: grilled meats.  656561  14%  XD  750 mL  $19.80  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Beyer Ranch Zinfandel, California, United States: A juicy Zinfandel with sweetly ripe berries and plums. Smooth and full-bodied. Pair with: gourmet hamburgers, grilled portobello mushrooms.  66118  14%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 87/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2006 Rodney Strong Wine Estates Pinot Noir, California, United States: A gorgeous, smooth, long silky Pinot with seductive notes of cherries and plums. Medium to full-bodied. Pair with: beef bourguignon, chambertin cheese, cinnamon and cumin spiced dishes, matzo ball soup, veal shanks.  954834  14%  D  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 91/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


[ Compress ] Rosés

2005 Les Maitres Vignerons De La Presquile de Saint Tropez Carte Noire Rosé, Cotes de Provence, France: The rosé wines are vinified at a low temperature after a light maceration or by direct pressing and racking (clarification of the must before fermentation). A light, lovely bone-dry rosé with notes of fresh strawberries. Pair with: roasted chicken, oysters.  319384  13%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 86/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


[ Compress ] Sparkling Wine

2006 Charles Heidsieck Champagne Brut Reserve, Champagne, France: A beautifully balanced Champagne with a long, toasty finish. Notes of melon and baked bread. Add the slightly spicy notes of Muscat Grape. Pair with: fried chicken, caviar, cream sauces.  36962  12%  XD  750 mL  $55.50  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review


2007 Piper-Heidieck Champagne Brut, Champagne, France: Won the gold medal for the Mondial de Bruxelles, Belgium in 2006. The majority of the blend of Piper-Heidsieck's signature Cuvee Brut is composed of Pinot Noir. Hand-selected parcels of Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay also play important roles in the elaboration of this well-balanced cuvee. selected reserve wines from preceding years are incorporatedinto the blend to ensure consistency of style year after year. The blend is aged for minimum of 24 months on the lees before release. A toasty, well-crafted bubbly with notes of green apples. Pair with: oysters, crab, lobster, nuts, creamy cheese. Drink: 2009-2012.  462432  12%  XD  750 mL  $57.65  Score: 90/100. October 7, 2008 Add to Shopping List   Add to Wish List   Add to My Cellar   See Full Review






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