Values Wine Picks December 1, 2009

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.

White Wine

Flat Rock Cellars Flat Rock Cellars The Rusty Shed Chardonnay 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Very pleasant Chardonnay with lovely notes of green apples, melon and Asian pear. A judicious use of oak gives a pleasing vanilla-spice finish. Drink: 2009-2012.  1552  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Thirty Bench Wine Makers Thirty Bench Vineyards Small Lot 'Wood Post Vineyard' Riesling 2008, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Good concentration yet it's light- to medium-bodied. A lovely melon intensity of flavour with green pear and a long finish. Drink: 2009-2016.  1053887  11.10%  MD  750 mL  $30.00  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


McWilliams Chardonnay 2007, South Eastern Australia, Australia: Nice balance to this tasty, robust Chardonnay: full-bodied but not heavy. Lovely notes of green apples, butter and vanilla spice.  557934  14%    750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Inniskillin Wines Riverbend, Erigan Riesling, Winemaker's Series, Two Vineyards 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: Lime and petrol nose: love it! Light- to medium-bodied so it's a fantastic aperitif or accompaniment to many dishes. Lively mouth-watering acidity with juicy notes of lemongrass and grapefruit. Refreshment in a glass! Drink: 2009-2012.  105387  11%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Burrowing Owl Vineyards Chardonnay 2007, BC VQA Okanagan Valley, Canada: Hazelnut, buttery-rich with a lovely weight and mouth-filling texture. Good length on the finish of this full-bodied wine. Drink: 2009-2013.  510933  13.50%  D  750 mL  $25.00  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Pierre Sparr Riesling 2007, Alsace, France: Almost jumps out of the glass with its vibrant lime freshness! Terrific notes to wake up your mouth: grapefruit, green apples, chives. Oh double yum!  618546  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cave Spring Cellars Cave Spring Vineyard Riesling Estate 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Lime and green apple, Anjou pear. Terrific acidity and balance. Part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Drink: 2009-2015.  286377  11%  MD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 91/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Henry of Pelham Riesling, Reserve 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: I can't believe the price of this wine! Lemon zest with limes and green apples. Terrific mouth-watering acidity. Dry, crisp, come alive wine with a clean finish. Terrific vintage for Niagara and for this winery.  283291  11.90%  MD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 91/100. December 1, 2009 Favourite White Wine. Full Review


Thirty Bench Wine Makers Thirty Bench Vineyards Small Lot Triangle Riesling 2008, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: White field flowers (daisies) with peach and white stone fruit. A summer's day in a glass. Drink: 2009-2016.  1053875  11.30%  MD  750 mL  $30.00  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cave Spring Cellars Cave Spring Vineyard Indian Summer Riesling 2006, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: A classic wine that I have come to love more each year it comes out. This is divinely rich without being heavy or too sweet. Balancing acidity makes it perfect on its own after dinner or with fruit-based desserts. Yum! Drink: 2009-2019.  415901  13%  S  375 mL  $24.95  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Marlborough, New Zealand: Classic and quintessentially New Zealand: can't visit? Drink this. This wine put NZ on the wine map. Lovely, zesty aromas of chives, lemongrass, lime, and grass. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering.  304469  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 93/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Henry of Pelham 2008, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: A lovely, refreshing blend of ripe apricots, peach and pear. Delicious, zesty and nicely balanced. Great as an aperitif or with many dishes.  126151  13.50%  D  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Trumpour's Mill The Grange of Prince Edward County Reisling 2007, V.Q.A., P.E.C., Ontario, Canada: Big petrol nose but I love it! Lots of mineral depth and layers of flavor with some ripe peach underneath. Mouth-watering and savory.  28258  11.50%  XD  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 86/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Distell Uitkyk Pinot Grigio 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Refreshing and lively with terrific notes of green melon, grapefruit, lime and white peach.  27128  12%  D  750 mL  $10.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Stoneleigh Chardonnay, New Zealand: A rich, round and full-bodied Chardonnay with terrific balance and mouth-watering acidity (which makes it great with food). Lovely notes of green apples and a lick of buttery goodness on the finish. Ideal for book clubs, knitting groups and people who just like to get together with friends and have no particular goal in mind.  288795  13.30%    750 mL  $16.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Ghost Pines Winemakers Blend Chardonnay 2007, California, USA: A robust, round Chardonnay with a rich texture and notes of green apples and butter. Judicious use of oak. Good wine for Sunday night roast chicken.  136408  13%    750 mL  $0.00  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Flat Rock Cellars Flat Rock Cellars Reserve Chardonnay 2007, VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Ontario, Canada: Very complex, rich and subtle. Creamy texture with gorgeous aromas of green apple, white peach, almond and toast. A long, satisfying finish. Great effort from a consistently great producer! Drink: 2009-2014.  881860300130  13%  D  750 mL  $35.00  Score: 91/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Ogio Pinot Grigio 2008, Italy: Hard to believe this price! Terrific wine for the money: refreshing and zippy; it makes a great aperitif as well as an acoompaniment to many dishes. Aromas of zesty limes, green apples and grapefruit.  86199  12%  XD  750 mL  $8.85  Score: 86/100. December 1, 2009 Best Value White Wine. Full Review


Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards McIntyre Vineyard Petit Verdot 2006, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A big, bold red with black fruit and berries. Toasty oak with dark spices on the finish. decant for 1-2 hours to soften the tannic grip. Ultimately satisfying.  981159  14.50%    750 mL  $29.99  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Thirty Bench Wine Makers Small Lot 'Steel Post Vineyard' Riesling 2008, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Lemony fresh and dry with a laser focus and finish. Gorgeous! Needs food. Mouth-watering with a long finish. Superb effort. Drink: 2009-2016.  1053863  8.80%  D  750 mL  $30.00  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Gallo Family Vineyards Pinot Grigio 2008, California, USA: Lime-fresh liveliness that makes a wonderful aperitif or an accompaniment to many dishes. Zesty and vibrant with green apple notes.  82594  13%    750 mL  $7.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Flat Rock Cellars Flat Rock Cellars Chardonnay 2007, VQA Niagara Peninsula, Canada: Lovely balance in this rich but not heavy Chardonnay. Terrific mouth-watering acidity for food. Loaded with generous aromas of green apples and hazelnuts. Drink: 2009-2011.  681247  13%  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Henry of Pelham Sibling Rivalry White 2008, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: A lovely easy-drinking that hits the right price-quality point for most palates and wallets. Delicious notes of blackberries and plums with a supple, full-bodied texture. Enjoy it with pizza, hamburgers and your best friends.  126144  12%  MD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Rancho Zabaco Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Sonoma, USA: Lovely refreshment! Notes of zesty lime, melon and green apples without any heavy oak. Nicely balanced and mouth-watering. Great aperitif.  36558  12.50%    750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards Reserve Chardonnay 2008, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A blousy, buttery Chardonnay with gorgeous warmth and depth. Loaded with ripe pineapple and apricot aromas wrapped in a valnill-spice blanket. Aged in French and American oak. Round and full-bodied.  558411  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $13.99  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Henry of Pelham Riesling, Speck Family Reserve 2007, Short Hills Bench, Canada: An incredibly aromatic and flavourful wine! Deeper and more minerality than the other Rieslings, this one has almost a masculine edge. The grape yield is kept to just 2 tons per acre to concentrate the flavor. It's also press fractioned to use the best juice and whole cluster pressed. A long, creamy finish.  +643361  12.20%  MD  750 mL  $30.00  Score: 93/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Thirty Bench Wine Makers Riesling 2008, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: A pretty, mouth-watering white with a touch of sweetness. Ripe aromas of melon and white peach. Lovely! Drink: 2009-2016.  1053851  8.80%  D  750 mL  $0.00  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Red Wine

Château des Charmes Gamay Droit 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Spicier and more robust than in past years but still darkly delicious with blackberries and peppered black raspberries. Full-bodied and supple.  582353  13%  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Painted Rock Estate Winery Ltd. Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: Extraordinary depth and length of flavour! Good weight and balance with deep, rich layers of dark fruit and smoke. Needs time to age. Decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2009-2020.  669499  14.30%  D  750 mL  $40.00  Score: 92/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Ogier Syrah Blend 2007, Rhone, France: Outstanding depth and length for the price. Wonderful persistence of flavours: blackberry, black cherry, cedar, plum and smoke. Yum! A long, warm finish that leaves you happily satisfied. Drink: 2009-2011.  535849  14%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Ironstone Vineyards Leaping Horse Merlot 2007, California, USA: Plummy great! Imminently quaffable with purple plum goodness and a smooth, full-bodied texture. Terrific party wine.  613265  14%    750 mL  $12.05  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cline Cellars Zinfandel 2007, California, United States: Mocha-blackberry rich: love it! Round, suplpe, full-bodied layers of flavor with legs and length that just won't stop. Take it all the way to the pool or lounge baby.  489278  14%  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Canaletto Casa Girelli Primitivo 2006, I.G.T., Puglia, Italy: Simple, rustic, full-bodied and tasty. Notes of cedar and blackberries. Good potluck dinner wine.  94565  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 85/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Mission Hill Family Estate Oliver and Osoyoos Compendium 2006, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A gorgeously rich, full-bodied red loaded with aromas of black raspberries, dried herbs and dark spices. Lovely fine tannins thread their way through this wine, giving it excellent structure and textural richness. Needs at least 10 years aging. Decant 1-2 hours. Smooth and elegant. Fabulous! Drink: 2010-2018.  104231  13.50%    750 mL  $40.00  Score: 93/100. December 1, 2009 Favourite Red Wine. Full Review


Croix Du Mayne Francois Pelissie 2007, Cahors, France: Rustic with cedar-earth notes (not fruit forward, more Old World style). Tasty, full-bodied and straight-forward.  28548  12.80%  XD  750 mL  $17.55  Score: 86/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Ghost Pines Winemakers Blend Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, California, USA: A dark, full-bodied Cabernet with classic notes of blackberry, cassis and blackcurrant. A smoky undercurrent pulls it all together in a satisfying package.  135376  13.80%    750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Thirty Bench Wine Makers Thirty Bench Vineyards Red 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: A supple, full-bodied wine with rich aromas of ripe cherries. Gorgeous texture and lovely finish. Drink: 2009-2014.  1053774  13.40%  XD  750 mL  $24.00  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Black Tower Pinot Noir Dornfelder 2007, Germany: Simple but tasty with some bright cherry notes and good acidity. Soft texture and light- to medium body. This wine has come a long way in quality since the 1980s.  580118  12%  D  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 83/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Henry of Pelham Pinot Noir 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Black cherry-rich with lovely aromas of cranberry, redcurrant and beetroot. Silky, medium-bodied texture with a long finish. The winery hand-punched down the cap during fermentation (translation: they worked hard to make this wine). The winery used 30% new European oak to impart an enticing smoky finish.  13904  12.90%  D  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Tommasi Classico Superiore Valpolicella 2008, Italy: It's all Band-Aids but I like it! Maybe it's the oak and earthiness but that's what I get. Lovely dark berries and plums. Full-bodied and smooth.  669150  12%  XD  750 mL  $14.00  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Shingleback Wine Red Knot Shiraz 2007, McLaren Vale, Australia: Stunning flavour and depth! Mouth-watering aromas of ripe blackberries, plums and dark chocolate. Toasty oak on the finish. Great persistence of flavour. Full-bodied yet supple.  619395  14%    750 mL  $17.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Henry of Pelham Cabenet-Merlot, Speck Family Reserve 2007, Short Hills Bench, Canada: Juicy-ripe blackberries and cassis with lovely balancing herbal notes and mouth-watering black plum. Full-bodied. A blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc.  616433  13.60%  D  750 mL  $50.00  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Tedeschi Amarone Della Valpolicella 2005, D.O.C., Italy: A lovely full-bodied red with a deep river of black cherry liqueur, black raspberry perserves and a lick of smoky licorice on the finish. Nice acidity makes it mouth-watering s agood companion for many dishes.  433417  15.50%  XD  750 mL  $39.95  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Coyote's Run Estate Winery Red Paw Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: Fragrant with lovely notes of black cherry, beetroot and fresh earth. Lovely dose of mouth-watering acidity. Drink: 2012-2017.  872086000188  12%  D  750 mL  $25.00  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Norton Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Mendoz, Argentina: Rugges and robust with blackberry notes. Simple but tasty. Decant for 1-2 hours.  589556  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $10.95  Score: 84/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Flat Rock Cellars Flat Rock Cellars Reserve Pinot Noir 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Mocha rich nose with vibrant, fleshy black cherries. A silky, medium-bodied texture with a long, espresso-infused finish. This wine was aged in French oak barrels for 10 months. Drink: 2009-2014.  881860400120  12.80%  D  750 mL  $45.00  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Lamberti Pinot Noir 2007, Delle Venezie, Italy: I love mouth-watering acidity like this: come alive kind of wine! Vibrant and tart cherries that dance across your palate. My style but not to everyone's taste. Great value for the money.  74070  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $11.90  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Burrowing Owl Vineyards Merlot 2007, BC VQA Okanagan Valley, Canada: Great finesse, balance and length. Truly one of Canada's best, if not the best, Merlots. Rich and plummy with judiciously applied oak that gives a lovely vanilla spice finish. A great dinner party wine. Drink: 2009-2015.  509885  14%  D  750 mL  $30.00  Score: 91/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Concha Y Toro Puento Alto Marques De Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Maipo Valley, Chile: Cedar-wrapped plums invite you inside this wine for your hedonistic pleasure. Smooth but full-bodied with many layers of flavour. A smokey finish is ultimately satisfying. Drink: 2009-2015.  337238  13.50%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cesari Amarone Della Valpolicella 2005, D.O.C., Italy: Lovely and balanced with spicy black cherries and peppered black rasberries. A smoky finish.  426718  14%  XD  750 mL  $35.00  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


McWilliams Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, South Eastern Australia, Australia: Full-bodied and blackberry-rich; this a tasty red. Classic notes of cassis and blackcurrant. It's got a good grip from the tannins so decant 1-2 hours first.  214577  14%    750 mL  $14.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Coyote's Run Estate Winery Black Paw Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: Powerful with notes of black cherry, dark spices, violets and truffles. Terrific balance and length. Very impressive. Drink: 2012-2019.  872086000195  12.50%  D  750 mL  $50.00  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Espiritu De Chile Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Central Valley, Chile: Lip-smacking delicious with fleshy ripe notes of blackberries and plums. Full-bodied and supple: this is an excellent party wine. Closed with a screwcap. What a great value!  60657  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $10.95  Score: 86/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Peller Estates Private Reserve Pinot Noir 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: Juicy and balanced with just the right touch of oak. Very berry-ripe with dancing, vibrant cherries. Plush and medium-bodied. Drink: 2009-2011.  1039585  13%  D  750 mL  $25.00  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Stratus Stratus Vineyards Gamay 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: A plush, silky red with gorgeous medium-bodied flavours of ripe cherry and strawberry. Very versatile wine with many dishes. Drink: 2009-2016.  628116000051  14%  XD  750 mL  $29.00  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Frescobaldi Nipozzano Riserva Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2006, D.O.C., Italy: Mocha-rich nose with dark berries and plums. A dark chocolate finish with full-bodied, supple layers of flavor.  107276  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $21.75  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Painted Rock Estate Winery Ltd. Merlot 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: Savory, dark and lovely. Vibrant black plums, field berries and mouth-wateringly rich and deep layers of dark spices and violets. Decant for 1-2 hours. Drink: 2009-2020.  608059  14.30%  D  750 mL  $40.00  Score: 92/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Smoking Loon Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, California, United States: Mocha nose with blackberries and plums and an espresso finish. Smooth and full-bodied.  55517  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Distell Uitkyk Merlot 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: An earthy, robust wine that's not too fruity. Lovely balance with a subtle, full-bodied character.  129874  14%  D  750 mL  $10.95  Score: 86/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Painted Rock Estate Winery Ltd. Red Icon Cabernet Franc Petit Verdot Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A blend of 33% Cabernet Franc,20% Petit Verdot,16% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Malbec. This wine needs at least 5 more years before you drink it: it's massive and loaded with potential! A black river of cassis flows over your palate, but wait: it's really unfair to open this one early. Canada's next cult wine? Drink: 2009-2020.  512657  14.50%  D  750 mL  $55.00  Score: 93/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Ogier Grenache Syrah 2008, Rhone, France: A rustic, cedary red with black cherry notes. Full-bodied and robust. Terrific value. Full-bodied with enticing dark spices and pepper notes on the finish. Drink: 2009-2010.  569095  14%  D  750 mL  $0.00  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards Dark Horse Vineyard Meritage 2006, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Canada: A mocha-rich red with dark depths of black plums, fleshy blackberries and other brooding dark fruit. Round, full-bodied and balanced with a lovely finish. This wine is a blend of 78% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignn. It was aged 12 months in French and American oak. Drink: 2009-2013.  597039  14%    750 mL  $24.99  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Alandra 2008, Portugal: An astounding value for the quality: I'm floored! Savory, cedary with mouth-watering blackberries and black raspberries. Hey, what more do you want? Buy a case!  89961  13%  XD  750 mL  $7.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Featherstone Winery & Vineyard Featherstone Cabernet Franc 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Loaded with rich dark berries and mocha aromas. A full-bodied, balanced palate gives way to dried tobacco leaves and blackberries on the finish. Gorgeous! Drink: 2009-2014.  014  13%  D  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 92/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Syrah 2007, BC VQA Okanagan Valley, Canada: Plummy black cherry liqueur richness with a dark, brooding core of full-bodied flavour. Some terrific touches of smoke an dark spices on the finish. Supple and wonderful. Drink: 2009-2015.  608828  14%  D  750 mL  $38.00  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Frei Brothers Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Alexander Valley, USA: Savory, dark and rich with a Bordeaux-like elegance and balance. Finesse and structure yet lip-smacking delicious aromas of cassis, blackberry, dried herbs and a smoky finish. Full-bodied yum. Drink: 2009-2013.  38075  14%    750 mL  $23.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Sandeman Quinta dos Carvailhas Duque De Viseu: Dark, brooding and full-bodied: loaded with ripe blackberry and blackcurrant notes. Smooth and balanced. A wisp of smoke on the finish. Decant for 1-2 hours.  546309  13%    750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Road 13 Vineyards Honest John's Red Merlot Syrah Pinot Noir 2008, Okanagan Valley, Canada: Terrific texture on this full-bodied blend. Bursting with warm aromas of plums and blackberries. An impressive debut.  290684  14.10%  XD  750 mL  $18.99  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Mitolo Shiraz 2007, McLaren Vale, Australia: A big, juicy, full-bodied honkin' red with aromas of black plum and dark berries. Terrific mouth-watering acidity. Oh so delicious!  659607  14%    750 mL  $21.95  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Mission Hill Family Estate Reserve Oliver and Osoyoos Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A river of blackberry liqueur runs through it! Lovely aromas of cassis and fleshy dark berries. Full-bodied and supple with a smoky finish. Yum!  553321  14%    750 mL  $22.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Welnerberg Pinotage 2005, Swartland, South Africa   28423  13.90%  XD  750 mL  $10.60. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Henry of Pelham Pinot Noir, Speck Family Reserve 2007, Short Hills Bench, Canada: Deep, rich and concentrated. Reminds of the power of Pommard, Burgundy, with all its elegance gathered at the center. Black cherry and bright field berries. Velvet smooth texture with a medium-body and a smoky-earth finish. Oh-la-la!  657874  13.70%  D  750 mL  $40.00  Score: 92/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


J. P. Vinhos Da Anfora Tinto 2006, Portugal: A savory red with aromas of black cherry, leather and cigar box. Old World balance and style: more earthy than fruity. Full-bodied and smooth.  227256  14%  XD  750 mL  $13.05  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Kaiken Malbec 2008, Mendoza, Argentina: Mind-blowingly great for the money! Bring it on: maybe a case please? Deep, rich, full-bodied, supple, blackberry ripe, fleshy, rolls on forever. Drop me off at home and good night.  58339  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards Bear Cub Vineyard Discovery Series Sangiovese 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A juicy, vibrant wine that awakens your palate. Bursting with bright cherries, raspberries and strawberries. Mouth-watering acidity makes it very food-friendly. It's medium-bodied and smooth without too muck oak. Nice effort!  1  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $29.99  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Marques De Casa Concha Concha Y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Spain: Rich, round, full-bodied and enticingly fleshy. Gorgeous notes of ripe blackberries and plums. Dripping with flavour and come hither aromas. Bring it on!  337238  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Painted Rock Estate Winery Ltd. Syrah 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: Dark spices and pepper give way to a black plummy heart and dark berries. Very intriguing core to this wine. A peppered finish. Drink: 2009-2030.  673285  14.50%  D  750 mL  $0.00  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Reif Estate Niagara River Meritage 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: Opens with ripe cassis, fleshy blackberries and black plums. Followed nicely by some dried tobacco and herbs on the palate with a spicy finish. Full-bodied and delicious. Drink: 2009-2014.  779320001126  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $26.95  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Kangaroo Springs Shiraz 2008, Australia: What an incredibly tasty wine for the money! Minty blackberries on the nose followed by lip-smacking delicious aromas of black cherries and plums on the palate. Knock it back: drink, don't think!  456194  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $9.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cent'are Nero D'avola 2007, i.G.T., Sicilia, Italy: A full-bodied, ructic red with fleshy blackberry and cedar notes.  546192  13%  XD  750 mL  $12.95  Score: 86/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Peller Estates Private Reserve Cabernet Franc 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: Deep, dark, lovely and rich! This full-bodied beauty is redolent with dark chocolate, espresso and blackberry aromas. Round and deep and ultimately satisfying. Drink: 2009-2012.  1039510  13.30%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Stratus Stratus Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: A robust Cabernet Franc with enticing notes of blackberries, black plum and mocha. Balanced and very tasty. Terrific wine for a potluck gathering. Drink: 2009-2019.  628116000020  13.50%    750 mL  $38.00  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Osoyoos Larose Le Grand Vin 2006, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A fabulous, full-bodied red with classic lines and structure. Blends Old World finesse and New World power and flavour beautifully. This is a cellar keeper, but if you insist on drinking it now (it is hard to resist), then decant for 1-2 hours. Drink: 2009-2020.  989194  13.80%    750 mL  $39.95  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Passion World Wines Tinta Roriz Tinta Barroca Pinot Noir 2008, Florida, USA: A staggeringly great value! (Look out Fusion) Juicy plums with full-bodied blackberry flavour. Supple, balanced and not too sweet, oaky or alcoholic. Amazingly well-made for the price. Perfect party wine or potluck dinner bottle. Drink: 2009-2011.  146449  13%  D  750 mL  $7.65  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cousiño Macul Antiguas Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Chile: Dark and brooding, like the kind of men who intrigue me: conflicted yet complex. Dark blackberry, smoke-wrapped layers. Let this one wash over you with its flavor. You've got nothing to lose with that price.  212993  14%  XD  750 mL  $15.45  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Peller Estates Private Reserve Merlot 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: Juicy, round and plummy plush with a lovely river of black cherry running through the core. Terrific balance with a pleasing blackberry-infused finish. Drink: 2009-2012.  1039546  13.30%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Gallo Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, California, USA: Exceptional value for the money! Rich, full-bodied and smooth with terrific aromas of cassis and blackberry. Velvet smooth. Yum!  223552  13%    750 mL  $7.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards Discovery Series Dark Horse Vineyard Tempranillo 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A thoroughly delicious quaffer! Juicy red and blackberries on the nose. Smooth and balanced on the palate. Don't analyze, just drink: what fun!  988110  13.70%    750 mL  $29.99  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cono Sur Pinot Noir 2008, Chile: This is such a tasty, juicy, mouth-watering wine for the money! Ripe, zingy cherries with a lovely medium body and silky texture. Mercifully closed with a screwcap.  341602  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $10.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review


Road 13 Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Okanagan Valley, Canada: Rich, dark and loaded with luscious black plum and mocha aromas. Judicioulsy applied oak wraps the package nicely. Full-bodied with a smoky finish. Terrific!  897629  14.40%    750 mL  $27.99  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Featherstone Winery & Vineyard Featherstone Pinot Noir 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Cherries galore! Bright, vibrant, wake-up-your-mouth cherries dance across your palate. Bring them on! A lovely balance and nice mouth-watering acidity. Terrific finish. Top me up please. Drink: 2011-2015.  015  12.50%  D  750 mL  $39.95  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Tabalí Reserva 2007, Limari Valley, Chile: Plummy and rich with layers of dark berry flavour. Velvet smooth with a satisfying grip on the finish. This full-bodied wine would be ideal for movie night (especially film noir) or a casual potluck dinner. This wine will be released in Vintages March 6. Drink: 2009-2012.  662692  14.50%    750 mL  $16.95  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 hamburgers, steak, meat lovers pizza. Full Review


Pasqua Sagramoso Ripasso Valpolicella 2007, D.O.C., Italy: Savory character with leather, black cherry and bacon fat notes. Love the Old World styling: this is not fruit forward. Terrific and balanced acidity and length.  602342  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $18.90  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Tapena Tempranillo 2008, Spain: Rustic but delicious with cedar-spiked blackberries. Brooding and dark.  72942  13%  XD  750 mL  $9.95  Score: 85/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Inniskillin Wines Heron Pond, Brae Burn, Delaine Pinot Noir, Winemaker's Series, Three Vineyards 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: Pleasingly tart and vibrant cherries with a silky, medium body and excellent balance. Judicious use of French oak. Drink: 2009-2015.  981332  13%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Montresor Amarone Della Valpolicella 2005, D.O.C., Italy: A rich, full-bodied red with blackberry liqueur and black raspberry jam notes. Dark and brooding and wrapped in a smoky pacakge.  240416  15%  XD  750 mL  $33.00  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Mission Hill Family Estate Oliver and Osoyoos Five Vineyards Pinot Noir 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: Very pleasant pinot with fleshy ripe cherries and field berries. Smooth, balanced and medium-bodied. A lick of cinnamon spice on the finish.  118844  13%    750 mL  $16.45  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Don Sebastiani & Sons Smoking Loon Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, California, USA: Mocha-lovely goodness with dark plums and dark berries. An espresso-infused finish. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2009-2010.  55517  14%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Masi Costasera Classico Amarone 2006, D.O.C., Italy: Black cherry liqueur and blackberry jam with a lovely weave of dried herbs and tobacco leaves on the finish. Very full-bodied and rich.  317057  15%  XD  750 mL  $37.35  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Rosés

Ogier Grenache Syrah Cinsault 2008, Rhone, France: Absolutely terrific for the money! Bright, ripe raspberries and strawberries with terrific heft of flavour yet not heavy. Lovely salmon colour. Very versatile with food. Drink: 2009-2010.  134916  13%  D  750 mL  $11.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Favourite Rosé. Full Review


Sparkling Wine

Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Henry of Pelham Cuvee Catharine Brut, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: This sparkling gets better every year, even though it's not vintage-dated. Lovely finesse and mousse with green apple vibrancy. The grapes were hand-picked in 50 pound lugs so they weren't bruised. The winery does press fractioning meaning the first bit of the juice (the head) and the last bit (the tail) aren't used in the wine just the juiciest, tastiest part of the juice. They also use the traditional Champagne method to make the wine. The wine spends 30 months on the lees which gives it a creamy texture.  217521  12%  D  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 91/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cave Spring Cellars Cave Spring Vineyard Chenin Blanc Extra Dry 2006, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: Lovely notes of green apple, lime with a fine mousse. Light-flavored and lovely like a blanc de blancs. Drink: 2009-2012.  049981  11%  MD  750 mL  $29.00  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Cidrerie St. Nicolas Sparkling Cider, Canada: Lovely apple freshness! Walking in an orchard in spring. Join me? Zesty refreshment.  61671  2.80%  MD  750 mL  $12.00  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review


No. 1 Family Estate No. 1 Cuvée, Marlborough, New Zealand: This zesty, full-bodied bubbly has lovely notes of lime, green apple and toast. Drink: 2009-2012.  56358  12.50%    750 mL  $0.00  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Dessert Wine

Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards Dark Horse Vineyard Discovery Series Tempranillo Icewine 2007, Okanagan Valley, Canada: I was delightfully surprised by this lovely after-dinner wine! I usually find red-grape icewines strange creatures, but this one is utterly delicious. It offers a river of red berry flavour that isn't cloying: strawberries, cherries and raspberries all roll across your tongue. Lovely!  3  9.50%  S  750 mL  $99.99  Score: 91/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Fonseca White Port, Douro, Portugal: I was surprised at this port mostly because I haven't tried many of the white variety. (I love tawny!) Makes a lovely after-dinner drink to sip on its own or with biscotti or fruit-based desserts.  276816  20%  S  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Peller Estates Andrew Peller Signature Series Riesling Icewine 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: A gorgeous elixir of honeyed apricot goodness and rich peach preserves. Makes a wonderful dessert wine on its own or with fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2009-2012.  1038823  11%  S  375 mL  $70.00  Score: 92/100. December 1, 2009 Favourite Dessert Wine. Full Review


Henry of Pelham Estate Winery Niagara Escarpment Riesling Icewine 2007, Niagara Escarpment, Canada: A spectacular wine in all aspects! Honeyed apricot richness with get-down-on-your-knees balance, finesse and elegance. Peach preserves and a clean finish. What more do you want in a dessert wine?  +430561  9.20%  S  750 mL  $49.95  Score: 95/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Sandeman Quinta dos Carvailhas Late Bottled Vintage Port 2000, Douro, Portugal: An outstanding value for this lovely after-dinner drink!Rich plummy notes of prune and cassis preserves.  113878  20.50%    750 mL  $16.95  Score: 87/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Reif Estate Niagara River Vidal Icewine 2007, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada: A gorgeous elixir of honeyed apricots, peach preserves and tropical fruit. A finish infused with figs and toffee. Delightful! Drink: 2009-2019.  779320000846  10.50%  S  375 mL  $46.95  Score: 90/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review


Tinhorn Creek Vineyards Tinhorn Creek Kerner Late Harvest 2007, South Okanagan Valley, BC VQA, Canada: Such a pretty wine! Lovely aromas of ripe apricot, peach and pear preserves. The tropical fruit flavours make a tasty companion to any fruit-based dessert. Drink: 2009-2014.  632216  13.40%  S  200 mL  $12.99  Score: 89/100. December 1, 2009 Best Value Dessert Wine. Full Review


Other Wines/Drinks

Choya 23 Liqueur, Japan: Pure marizan, chocolate-covered cherries but heavenly! What an after-drinner drink. Also would serve well post other activities.  125385  23.60%  S  750 mL  $31.50  Score: 92/100. December 1, 2009 Full Review