Vintages Wine Picks August 1, 2009

by Natalie MacLean

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[ Compress ] White Wine

Peter Lehmann Wines Clancy Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2008, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: The blend is 51% Semillon from the Barossa and 49% Sauvignon Blanc from Adelaide Hills. This is reminiscent of New Zealand Savvies, but with an Oz twist. Besides the green grass, asparagus and peapod notes, you’ll also find tropical fruit, such as pineapple and banana. It finishes spicy and fruity. My note: A grassy-good, refreshing white with lemongrass and chives. (Why do I sound like I’m cooking rather than drinking?) I like this fresh, medium-bodied, oak-free style. Good on ya mate! 118976 12% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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d'Arenberg Basket Pressed Roussanne 2007, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Great intensity of flavor! Nice honeyed pears (but it’s bone dry) and apricot. Medium-bodied and zippy. 656710 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. August 1, 2009 Favorite White Wine.
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Angels Gate Winery Old Vines Chardonnay 2006, V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Time is showing that the 2006 white wines grown in Ontario are verging on classic. This Chardonnay from Angels Gate is a case in point. Filled with aromas of pineapple, melon, popcorn, butter and smoke, it is dry, fruity and forceful, yet impeccably balanced. The oak is expertly integrated. It will also reward 2-4 years. My note: Rich and buttery yet still medium- to full-bodied (not heavy). Rounded aromas of butterscotch and ripe peaches. I like this producer a lot. 116350 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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Angels Gate Winery Mountainview Chardonnay 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Straightforward, crisp, fresh Chardonnay with tropical fruit, butter and mineral aromas. Dry and fruity with a zippy core bringing balance. An excellent palate refresher. My note: Buttery and lovely but not heavy. Medium-bodied with hazelnut and ripe peach aromas. 116384 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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See Ya Later Ranch Chardonnay 2007, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: A lovely, smooth Chardonnay with butterscotch, ripe pineapple, apricot and vanilla spice. Full-bodied and supple. 126912 14% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Pinot Blanc 2008, V.Q.A., Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Apple, stone fruit and light pear are the dominant aromas. Dry, with gentle acids around the pleasing fruit tones. Medium-bodied with a lengthy finish. A Pinot Blanc to chill down and enjoy on its own. My note: A neutral wine that will please those who don’t like strong fruit or oak aromas. Light-bodied and refreshing. 618827 12% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. August 1, 2009
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Featherstone Winery & Vineyard Black Sheep Riesling 2008, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: If this Riesling is any indication what the Niagara 2008 whites are going to be like, we are in for a major treat. A vast array of aromas strut their stuff, including melon, pear, peach, limeade and mineral. Just off-dry, it’s fresh with near-perfect balance between the fruit and acids. Medium-bodied with an extensive and complex finish. Age it 2-4 years (though that may be conservative) or enjoy it tonight. My note: Juicy-fantastic! Love this wine. Aromas of mouth-watering peach, apricot, honeysuckle, lime and tangerine zest. Light- or medium-bodied and perfect. 80234 10% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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Hans Lang Riesling Spätlese 1992, Q.M.P., Hattenheimer Hassel, Rheingau, Germany: Vintages Wine Panel: Hans Lang’s father, Johann Joseph, founded this estate in 1953. 75% of Lang’s 18 hectares are planted to Riesling. Spätlese (‘late harvest’) wines are riper than Kabinett wines, and are often splendid candidates for ageing – Lang’s 1992 is now in peak form. Try this gently sweet, citrus-and-honey-infused beauty. My note: It may be medium in the sweetness scale but it tastes dry and absolutely delicious! It’ll make your mouth water. Aromas of ripe limes, lemons, green apples and white peach. Light- to medium-bodied. 127100 10% M 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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Schloss Schönborn Riesling Kabinett 2007, Q.M.P., Hattenheimer Pfaffenberg, Rheingau, Germany: Supple, soft and delicious! Medium-bodied with ripe peaches, pears and pink grapefruit. Terrific finish. 70946 10% MD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Boutari Moschofilero 2008, A.C.Q.S., Mantinia, Greece: Vintages Wine Panel: Moschofilero (mo-sko-FEEL-ero) is a deep pink-skinned grape that is used to produce aromatically intense white wines. Indigenous to Greece, it is reminiscent of Muscat with its impressive floral, grapey and spicy qualities. Its crisp acidity brings a nice balance to the wine. My note: A very simple, light-bodied white with skippy-carefree notes of limes and apricot. No oak. 650671 12% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 85/100. August 1, 2009
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Tiefenbrunner Pinot Grigio 2008, D.O.C., Süditrol - Alto Adige,Trentino, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This Pinot Grigio displays a delicate bouquet with hints of pear and candied fruit. It’s dry, round (from the extended lees ageing) and full-bodied with a fresh seam of acidity that gives the wine fine balance. The ever-versatile Pinot Grigio pairs easily. My note: I’m not a huge Pinot Grigio fan, but I really like this one. It has wonderful notes of ripe limes, green apples, white melon and grapefruit. Refreshment in a bottle. 954024 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Babich Black Label Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Classic Kiwi Savvy character dominates this finely made version. Look for sweet herbs, fresh-cut grass, asparagus and passion fruit aromas. Dry and crisp with a remarkable opulence, this will stand up to short-term cellaring or can be enjoyed now. My note: Classic grassy herbal, grapefruit, chives, lime and lemon aromas. Zippy acidity, no oak. 9142 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Miguel Torres Viña Esmeralda Moscatel De Alejandra Gewurztraminer 2008, D.O.C., Catalunya, Spain: A lovely aromatic white with notes of lychee, rose petals, white peach, white flowers and white pepper. Light- to medium-bodied. Perfect aperitif. A blend of Moscatel de Alejandra (85%) and Gewurztraminer (15%). Closed with a screwcap. 113696 12% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009 Best Value White Wine.
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J. Lohr Bay Mist White Riesling 2007, Monterey, California, United States: Ripe peaches, white melon and pears. Lovely! Medium-bodied with terrific mouth-watering acidity. A fig-infused finish. 57299 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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[ Compress ] Red Wine

Finca Flichman Expresiones Reserve Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Mendoza, Argentina: A juicy wonder with full-bodied goodness and depth. Perfect as a party wine or for barbecues. Notes of black cherry, blackcurrant and licorice. The grapes were hand-picked and the wine was aged 8 months in American and French oak. 17111 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. August 1, 2009
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Finca El Origen Reserva Malbec 2007, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Fantastic value for this spicy, black-fruited number. Full-bodied with supple layers. It’s perfect for barbecue and nights when you want to wear your faded jeans. This wine was aged 9 months in French oak. 65664 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Santa Julia Magna, Familia Zuccardi 2005, Mendoza, Argentina: Lovely, extraordinary in fact for the money! I challenge you to do better than this wine taste-wise at this price. Still thinking? Sorry. So throw yourself into this plush red with its velvet depths and succulent berries and plums. Some dark spices and anise on the finish. 93799 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Peter Lehmann Wines Tempranillo 2006, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: It was during a visit to Spain’s classic Rioja region that Peter Lehmann’s chief winemaker, Andrew Wigan, realized the potential for Tempranillo in Australia. Try this Aussie take on Spain’s noble variety. My note: Yum! Tempranillo is an underrated grape and Peter Lehmann is doing a fantastic job with it. Generous layers of plush plums and berries. 118984 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 1, 2009
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Grant Burge Barossa Vines Shiraz 2006, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: You can’t go wrong with this easy-to-love Shiraz. My note: Amazing fruit depths with luscious texture and black fruit and smoke and mint. Perfect for closing any deal, business or romantic. 738567 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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Inniskillin Wines Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Inniskillin’s west coast Cab is filled with aromas of blackcurrant, vanilla, cocoa, coffee and tar. On the palate, the black fruits replay with an intriguing sweet herbal tone on the mid-palate. There’s a wonderful precision between the fruit and the tannin. Medium full-bodied with a lengthy finish. This is a food-friendly Cabernet. My note: Gorgeously rich Cab with mocha-chocolate depths and a dark spice finish. 126672 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Jackson-Triggs Proprietors' Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Estate, British Columbia, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Jackson-Triggs’ Okanagan winery was named Canadian Winery of the Year at the 2008 Canadian Wine Awards – this wine shows you why. Some real personality here with forward dark chocolate and concentrated plum and blackcurrant aromas and flavors. This charmer is full-bodied, lush and friendly. It would make an excellent complement to a summer party. My note: Rich, warmer with layers of voluptuous texture. Mocha notes on the nose with coffee-spice, blackberries and black plums on the palate. Drink it now rather than wait. 126748 14% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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Sandhill Sandhill Estate Vineyard Merlot 2006, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Brooding mix of violets, blackberries, anise and plum with vanilla spice on the finish. Decant for 2 hours. 131896 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Reif Estate Pinot Noir 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara River, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: I love bitter cherries: they spice life. Forget all that flabby sweet fruit… wake up your mouth and senses with a wine like this one. Silky, medium-bodied and saucy. Tart cherries and pepper. Take a chance. 282889 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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De Martino Legado Reserva Syrah 2006, Choapa Valley, Chile: Full-bodied lovely with plush back fruit and smoke. Polished tannins and a smooth long finish. 32136 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Aresti Reserva Merlot 2006, Curicó Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: Chilean winemakers have redefined Merlot with their bold, spicy, flavorful expressions of the grape. As this Reserva shows, the emerging interpretation at its best is rich with plum, cassis, and berry fruit aromas. A fine mixture of fruit and judicious oak spice make this medium-bodied beauty a stellar spokes model for new-style Merlot from Chile. My note: Simply amazing for the money! Rich, mocha deep with blackberries, plush plums and dark chocolate notes. 726760 14% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Château Cherchy-Desqueyroux Wolfkloof, Francis Desqueyroux Et Fils Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, A.C., Graves, Bordeaux, France: This wine is a blend of Merlot (60%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (40%). It’s super dry and austere. Grippy tannins require decanting for 2 hours. Aromas of blackcurrant and cassis. 125518 12% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Château De Paillet-Quancard Cheval Quancard Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc 2005, A.C., Premèires Côtes de Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This Right Bank blend is comprised of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. Impress your fellow partygoers when you serve it. My note: A simple, savory wine with robust notes of black plums, blackberries and some toasty oak. Great for potluck gatherings. 125526 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Mont Tauch Vieilles Vignes Carignan Grenache Syrah 2006, A.C., FITOU, Midi, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Gold Medal winner at the 2008 Concours Général Agricole, in Paris. This blend of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah opens with vivid ripe blackcurrant and cherry characteristics on the nose. Lots of sweet oak, dark fruit and chocolate make this a full, rich experience. Finishes with lively spice notes. My note: A simple wine with black fruit and mocha-dark chocolate notes. Full-bodied and satisfying. A great quaffer for a duffer. 127134 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. August 1, 2009
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Domaine Le Grand Retour Plan De Dieu Syrah Blend 2007, A.C., CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Winner of a Gold Medal at the Concours des Vins Orange 2008. Deep ruby in color, this wine’s complex bouquet weaves aromas of black fruit, strawberry, cherry, and marzipan with white pepper and garrigue notes. It’s medium-bodied and features lots of juicy red and black fruit on the palate, leading to a clean finish. My note: Ridiculously priced: someone in inventory management obviously messed here. I can’t believe the quality for the money. A river of cherry liqueur glides to the back of your mouth as you sit back and pat yourself on the back for buying a case of this wine. Full-bodied and deep. Perfect for parties. 127167 14% XD 750 mL $11.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009 Best Value Red Wine.
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Jacques Charlet Les 3 Puits Beaujolais 2007, A.C., CHIROUBLES, Beaujolais, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A forward, fruity nose with spicy cherry and pepper leads to a mouthful of dry cherry layered with traces of garrigue. This has good balance and a substantial, crisp, dry finish. It’s easy-going, soft and pleasant. My note: An eternally optimistic wine that sees the sunny side of everything. Bright dancing cherries followed by a lightly smoky fun finish. Light-bodied. 127407 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. August 1, 2009
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Duvergey Taboureau Pinot Noir 2007, Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This handsome Pinot features pungent cherry and floral aromas, and flavors of cherry, floral, and wood spice with beguiling earth notes. It’s light- to medium-bodied and sports an attractive, medium-plus finish. My note: Pleasantly tart cherries with a lovely core of field raspberries. Silky and medium-bodied with polished tannins. Terrific mouth-watering acidity with a lovely finish. Incredible for the price. 127415 12% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Domaine De La Bastide Visan Syrah Blend 2007, A.C., CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES, Rhône, France: Bright, ripe red cherries on the nose with a terrific core of fleshy ripe berries on the palate. Extraordinary taste and value for the money. Perfect as a party wine and they won’t think you’re being cheap on the booze. 129072 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Maison Coquard Clochemerle Christophe Coquard 2007, A.C., BEAUJOLAIS VILLAGES, Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This approachable, deeply colored Beaujolais is speckled with notes of peppery black fruit and mineral character, with sweet sherry and cherry flavors on the palate. Medium full-bodied, it has a crisp, clean finish. My note: Such a pretty, bright, happy wine! Light-bodied with polished tannins: great transitional wine if you’re looking to move from white to red. Juicy field strawberries and raspberries. Lovely. Closed with a screwcap. 129122 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. August 1, 2009
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Château De Nages R. Gassier, Prop.-Récolt., Réserve Grenache Syrah 2007, A.C., Costières de Nîmes, Rhône, France: Oaky-dokey, full-bodied with notes of black plums, blackberries, coffee and tobacco in this blend of Grenache and Syrah grapes. Drink now, I mean right now, not tomorrow. 427617 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. August 1, 2009
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Château Le Conseiller 2005, A.C., Bordeaux Supérieur, France: Bring it on baby! This wine doesn’t stop, from first flooding the senses with aromas of cassis, black raspberries, violets, cedar box and anise to the truffle-infused finish. Inky, brooding and beautiful. 500322 14% XD 750 mL $26.00 Score: 91/100. August 1, 2009
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Château D'aiguilhe Merlot Cabernet Franc 2005, A.C., Côtes de Castillon, Bordeaux, France: Devastatingly great the kind of wine that destroys you for others and makes life more expensive. The chateau is owned by Stephan von Neipperg. Just thought I’d mention that, not sure why. Concentrated, opulent aromas of purple plums, blackberries, coffee, smoke and dried herbs. A full-bodied blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Drink: 2010-2020. 501163 14% XD 750 mL $48.00 Score: 93/100. August 1, 2009
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Château Cos D'estournel Les Pagodes 2005, AC Saint-Éstephe, Bordeaux, France: A wine with a serious backbone: this wine is all structure and some fruit. Notes of dried tobacco leaves, coffee and black plums. Polished tannins and a long finish. Perfect gift for a grammatically correct teacher. 501833 14% XD 750 mL $59.00 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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Château Haut-Bergey Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2005, A.C., Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France: A supple, medium-bodied wine with great elegance and finesse. Best consumed at intimate dinners. The wine is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot. Aroma bouquet includes black raspberries, smoke, cedar. Drink: 2009-2018. 502047 13% XD 750 mL $49.00 Score: 91/100. August 1, 2009
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Château Grand-Puy-Ducasse Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2005, A.C., Pauillac, Bordeaux, France: Is it okay to purr for a tasting note? Fine, let me add some words … just a minute, I need another sip. Okay, I’m back now. Lovely, voluptuous aromas of black raspberries and cherries, fleshy plums and blackberries. Well-judged oak, medium-bodied, plush and long. Top me up please. Drink: 2011-2022. 502997 13% XD 750 mL $52.00 Score: 93/100. August 1, 2009
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Château Laurou Tradition Négrette 2006, A.C., Fronton, Southwest, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Not far from the village of Toulouse are the terraced vineyards of the Fronton appellation. This region features a rare grape variety by the name of Négrette which has made itself at home in the quartz-gravel soils here. Négrette is low in acidity and tannins, and is notable for its lovely aromas of violets and berries, plus its delicate, supple character. My note: Simple, peppery and satisfying. This rustic wine is the country cousin who doesn’t put on airs but has his own charm. Full-bodied with notes of black peppered raspberries and cassis wrapped in a cedar box. Go figure. 61531 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Tsantali Nemea Réserve Agiorgitiko 2003, A.O.Q.S., Greece: Vintages Wine Panel: The indigenous Agiorgitiko (ah-yohr-YEE-tee-koh) grape is Greece’s second most planted red grape variety. When handled by exceptional producers such as Tsantali, the grape produces berry- and plum-scented wines with remarkable structure and elegance. This fine example may be enjoyed tonight. My note: A rustic, full-bodied red with rough edges but lots of charm. Aromas of dark red berries and fruit. 13524 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 86/100. August 1, 2009
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Terre Di Verona Cantina Valpantena Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Gorgeously rich, concentrated and extracted with a river of cherry liqueur running through it. Beautiful expression of life’s pleasures. Full-bodied beauty that will age well. Drink: 2009-2023. 117291 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 93/100. August 1, 2009 Favorite Red Wine.
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Poggio Nibbiale Di Scansano Morellino 2006, D.O.C., Tuscany, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Morellino is the local name for Sangiovese and this one is brimming with forward aromas of blackcurrant, raspberry, mocha and dark chocolate with hints of leather. On the palate, this is full of rich red fruit flavor which carries onward to the creamy, spicy finish. Drink this in-tense red now, or age it for a year while the wine continues to develop. My note: Mouth-wateringly dry and tasty with aromas of black berries and smoke. Tangy. 125096 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Cantalici Chianti Classico 2004, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Exuberant red with expressive blackberries and black cherries. Full-bodied and supple with terrific acidity and length. Definitely needs food. 125138 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Egle Albino Armani Valpolicella Ripasso 2006, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This modern-styled Ripasso was aged in oak barrels, and sports attractive chocolate, ripe red fruit and fig character. Forward-looking and fresh, it features a medium body and a lingering finish. My note: Simple, juicy, purple and delicious. Full-bodied with plush plums and supple texture. Knock it back and be happy. 130260 14% D 750 mL $18.00 Score: 87/100. August 1, 2009
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Terra D'Aligi Tatone Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2005, D.O.C., Abruzzo, Italy: Mocha-rich nose followed by luscious blackberries and black raspberries. Terrific wine to crack open beside the barbecue. Tatone translates to “grandfather.” Full-bodied with gulpable layers of flavor. A coffee-infused finish. 994616 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Remo Farina Classico Superiore Ripasso Valpolicella 2005, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Ripasso (or ‘re-passing’) involves fermenting the wine a second time on dried Amarone grapes. This process deepens the wine’s color, body, aroma, taste and ageability. Farina’s Ripasso features aromas of pepper spice, licorice, cherries, and ginger, all contributing to a medium-bodied, long-finishing wine. My note: A smoky dark wine with dark red berries and fruit. Full-bodied and tasty. Drink it while watching The Sopranos. 999946 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Wild Rock Cupids Arrow Pinot Noir 2007, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Juicy sweet with dancing cherries and strawberries. Aged 6 months in French oak (15% new). Vibrant and fresh. 61242 14% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Robertson Winery Shiraz 2006, W.O., Robertson, Breede River Valley, South Africa: Thoroughly delicious! Full-bodied flayers of black plums, perky berries and dark spices. Polished tannins and a supple texture. 626341 15% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. August 1, 2009
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Robertson Winery Prospect Hill Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, W.O., Robertson, South Africa: Vintages Wine Panel: This Cabernet Sauvignon was a Silver Medal winner at the important South African wine competition, Veritas, in 2007. Prospect Hill is a small vineyard located on Zandvliet Mountain at the 172 meter mark. The southeast-facing slope and well-drained red Karoo/limestone soils are ideal for perfectly ripening Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is filled with cassis, dark chocolate and espresso aromas and flavors. Try this balanced, fruity wine. My note: Mocha-berry goodness with supple full-bodied layers 687814 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Cerro Añon Reserva Bodegas Olarra Tempranillo Garnacha Mazuelo 2004, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: This Tempranillo-based wine (with Garnacha and Mazuelo in support) is right at home at a BBQ cookout. My note: I get band-aids but I mean that as a compliment. Something about the infusion of oak and black fruit gives me this but I like it. Gorgeous supple texture and length. 114306 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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Arnold Palmer Luna Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Napa Valley, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: The perfect gift for golfing fanatics. My note: sweet mocha, chocolate and berry notes. Smooth, supple and full-bodied. Perfect for the golf course if you’re driving the cart. 105957 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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De Loach Pinot Noir 2006, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, Sonoma, California, United States: Gorgeously ripe cherries with plush depths and satin texture. A fantastic Pinot for those who love the fruity style rather than the earthy style. Some violets and a dash of dark spice make this a wonderful and complete package of pleasure. 119024 14% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. August 1, 2009
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Robert Hall Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Paso Robles, California, United States: A chocolate-rich, dry wine with notes of briar, blackcurrant and cassis. Full-bodied and rounded. Delicious! 25205 14% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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Columbia Crest Winery Grand Estates Merlot 2005, Columbia Valley, Washington State, United States: Mocha-coffee-dark-chocolate nose with layers of black fruit and smoke. Plush and satiny. 263418 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. August 1, 2009
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Chateau St. Jean Pinot Noir 2006, Sonoma County, California, United States: Lovely cherry-laden Pinot with baking spices and a lick of pepper. A wine for romance and first dates… these should be the same thing, but perhaps not necessarily. 687970 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. August 1, 2009
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J. Lohr South Ridge Syrah 2006, Paso Robles, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Deep purple-ruby in color, this Syrah is packed with ripe fruit accented by spicy notes. The nose opens to sweet blackberry, black cherry, anise and black pepper. These flavors carry through on the palate, whose plush fruit flirts with jamminess but is restrained by fine, silky-smooth tannins. Very approachable. My note: Plush, plush, plush! Land a satin cushion of plums and berries, bounce to a basket of flavor. Full-bodied with boundless flavor and energy. Yay! 948240 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 1, 2009
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[ Compress ] Rosés

De Bortoli Selection Rosé 2008, Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: Nothing says summer quite like a rosé. De Bortoli has crafted a wonderful medium-dry rosé with lifted strawberry and cherry fruit aromas, terrific flavor intensity and a delightful finish of sweet fruit. Lovely as an aperitif, either on its own or with canapés. My note: Simple strawberries in a basket of summer days. Enjoy and close your eyes in the sunshine. 120238 12% MD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 86/100. August 1, 2009 Best Value Rosé.
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Domaine Des Carteresses Les Vignerons De Tavel Rosé 2008, A.C., Tavel, Rhône, France: Tavel, in the southern Rhône Valley has a marvelous reputation for world-class rosé. This one is no exception: aromas of ripe raspberries and strawberries. Bone-dry and lip-smacking delicious. Medium-bodied and smooth without any heavy oak. 739474 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. August 1, 2009 Favorite Rosé.
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Domaine Des Peirecèdes Le Fil D'ariane Grenache Cinsaut Syrah Rosé 2008, A.C., Côtes de Provence, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A blend of Grenache, Cinsaut and Syrah, this dry, raspberry-scented rosé is an excellent companion for a fresh summer salad. You could also enjoy it as a sipper while you kick back on the patio. My note: Incredibly light and beautiful. Pure southern French sunshine. Light aromas of field berries. 950733 12% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009
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[ Compress ] Sparkling Wine

Santa Margherita Brut Prosecco, D.O.C., Valdobbiadene, Italy: Toasty rich and an incredible value for bubbly! One to pour for big parties and weddings. Toasty notes of freshly baked bread and ripe peaches. 687582 12% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. August 1, 2009 Best Value Sparkling Wine.
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[ Compress ] Dessert Wine

Château Doisy-Védrines 2005, A.C., Barsac, Bordeaux, France: Rich, honeyed warmth in layers of sweetly ripe apricot, peach and tangerines, with some clove spice. 500140 12% S 375 mL $32.00 Score: 91/100. August 1, 2009 Favorite Dessert Wine.
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