Wine Picks

Vintages Wine Picks September 3, 2011

White Wine

Miner Wild Yeast Chardonnay 2007, Napa Valley, California, United States: Fantastic chardonnay with big, buttery oaky aromas and layers of fleshy peach and pear fruit. Glorious in its length, spectacular in its depth. Drink: 2011-2016. 45906 15.30% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 93/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review

Jackson Triggs Silver Series Gewürztraminer 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Bright lemon-straw in the glass with pretty floral, grapefruit peel, grated ginger, white pepper, peach and pear with a touch of lychee. Off-dry, with the lychee fruit really emerging on the palate. Medium body, round texture and a juicy core of spice-kissed fruit that meanders to a pleasing, spicy/floral finish. Chill and sip, or pair it with sweet-and-savoury Asian noodle dishes. My note: Lovely gewurz that’s not over-the-top: light hints of lychee and rose petal. Pleasant mouth-watering juiciness with a refreshing snap on a clean finish. Drink: 2011-2015. 247767 13.70% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Fielding Riesling 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Pretty pear, apple, citrus and mineral aromas are front and centre. Off-dry with plentiful fruit tones right out of the gate, followed by refreshing acidity. Medium bodied with a long, citrus/pear finish. This is a flavourful Riesling. My note : Superb! Niagara sunshine suffused through spring rain. Lovely peach and pear aromas dappled with mouth-watering green apple. Open some happiness. Drink: 2011-2015. 251439 10.50% MD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review

Concha Y Toro Trio Reserva 2009, Casablanca Valley, Chile: This spritely wine is a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Blanc. Peach and lime notes give refreshment while there’s a satisfying underlay of toasty oak. Drink: 2011-2013. 433938 13.50% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 87/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value White Wine. Full Review

Inniskillin Winemaker's Series Barrel Aged Pinot Gris 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: A terrific pinot gris and a benchmark for the genre/category. Crisp white melon, grapefruit and lemon burst. Refreshing and dry. Winner of the only Gold Medal awarded in the Pinot Gris/Grigio category at the 2010 Canadian Wine Awards. Drink: 2011-2014. 177766 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Lailey Chardonnay 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: A wonderful sunburst of rip peach and pear waft up from the glass. Ripe and rich with just the right amount of oak. Kissed by nature. Drink: 2011-2014. 193482 12.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Coopers Creek Vineyard Sv The Pointer Pinot Gris 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Terrific! Lime and chives with white melon and pure loveliness. Fantastic clean crisp aperitif or food companion. Drink: 2011-2014. 236042 13.50% MD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Flat Rock Chardonnay 2008, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine won Judges’ Choice honours for Oaked Chardonnay at the Wine Access 2011 International Value Wine Awards. Try this impressive Chardonnay. My note: Toasted almonds and hazelnuts wrap around a core of green apple vibrancy. Luscious and lively: could you ask for a better combination? I think not. Drink: 2011-2015. 681247 11.90% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value White Wine. Full Review

Napa Ridge Chardonnay 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Medium lemon colour. Ripe apple, pear, toast, smoke and sandalwood, with hints of banana and pineapple. Dry with a medium-full body. Nicely round and juicy, with a substantial fruit/oak core refreshed by bright acidity. Tasty, layered finish really impresses. My note: This is like your favourite pair of jeans: comforting and comfortable, well-known and familiar with buttery, oaky, green apple aromas. Drink: 2011-2015. 213678 12.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Wine By Joe Really Good Joe Dobbes, Prop. Pinot Gris 2009, Oregon, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Oregon has developed a deserved reputation for creating flavourful, well-made Pinot Gris, and this one from Wine By Joe is a case in point. Pear, apple, lime and sweet herb aromas are front and centre. On the palate, it is dry, clean and quite refreshing. My note: Clean, crisp and refreshing with mild notes of white melon and lime. Drink: 2011-2014. 58651 13.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Zolo Fincas Patagonicas Torrontés 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: The aromatic Torrontés is quickly becoming Argentina’s flagship white grape. Look for pretty aromas of pear, peach, apricot and citrus. Dry and very flavourful, this sprightly wine is a fine choice. My note: Trust me, you haven’t lived until you’ve tried Torrontes, the grape. This is a wonderful interpretation of peachy-floral splendor. Ignore the price as it’ll bias you because it’s so low. Drink: 2011-2014. 183913 13.80% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value White Wine. Full Review

Lailey Unoaked Chardonnay 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Terrific fresh, clean and crisp aromas of green apple and tart white peach. Focused and refreshing. Drink: 2011-2014. 249326 13.50% XD 750 mL $16.00 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Napa Valley, California, United States: Lovely white melon, lemongrass and chives. Perfectly balanced. Good mouth-watering action. Drink: 2011-2014. 243162 13.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review

Delta Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Marlborough is known for its excellent growing conditions for Sauvignon Blanc vintage after vintage, but 2010 in particular was a real “mean beaut” (i.e., outstanding). This version from Delta shows the depth of flavour characteristic of the vintage, with ripe citrus and warm grassy notes at its core. A fantastic value in Marlborough Savvy. My note: Cut grass and lemon and lime, herbal notes. Mouth-watering acidity. Drink: 2011-2014. 236125 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Wildass Riesling 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: A wonderfully expressive nose that delivers complex notes of pear, limestone, peach, and lemon and lime zest. Off-dry, fresh and vibrant with layers of ripe sweet-and-tangy fruit. Medium bodied with a ribbon of lively acidity that keeps the fruit in perfect balance. Closes with a medium-long fruity/crisp finish. A fantastic sipper, or pair with lemon-herbed chicken. My note: Pleasant peach and melon notes, light- to medium-bodied with just enough mouth-watering action. Great food wine. Drink: 2011-2014. 129700 12.50% MD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Giesen The Brothers Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Herbal, green and green with chives, lime and lemon. Vibrant acidity, great refreshment. Drink: 2011-2013. 247213 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Momo Seresin Chardonnay 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Terrific balance and sculpting with luscious apple and peach and a hazelnut smokiness. Full-bodied but not heavy. Great for Chardonnay lovers! Drink: 2011-2014. 247247 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Red Wine

Rust En Vrede Estate Jean Engelbrecht, Prop. 2007, W.O., Stellenbosch, South Africa: Very complex yet easy to understand and drink! Gorgeous layers of rip black fruit, smoke and bacon (yes bacon). Almost a French balance and elegance backed up by South African power and fruit. Terrific! Drink: 2011-2018. 997742 15% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 93/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

De Toren Z 2008, W.O., Stellenbosch, South Africa: Hickory smoke wraps around savoury blackberries and currants. Full-bodied, smooth and long. Delightful! Drink: 2011-2016. 178194 14.50% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Gotham Shiraz 2009, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: Big, black and tarry with fightin’ dark fruit. Punch it up and pour it out. Those who love a full wallop on their palate will adore this wine. Drink: 2011-2015. 243048 14.80% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Summers Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Napa Valley, California, United States: Smooth and full-bodied with pleasant aromas of blackberry fruit. Some dark spices on the finish. Over-priced by $15. Drink: 2011-2015. 226597 14.10% XD 750 mL $45.95 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Juan Benegas Malbec 2008, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: This one features aromas of black cherry, wet earth, plum and violets. Dry with a very good balance between the ripe fruits and moderate tannins. Ready to drink tonight. My note: A pleasant, full-bodied smooth red with dark fruit. Drink: 2011-2013. 222273 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 85/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Coyote's Run Red Paw Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009, V.Q.A., Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Lovely sour-ripe dark cherries wrapped in smoky oak. Satin smooth and medium-bodied. Terrific winemaking here. Drink: 2011-2014. 79228 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Rusden Ripper Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2007, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Stunning wine that’s a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) and Shiraz (40%) that matured 18 months in French oak. Black cherry liqueur on the nose, very intense then almost tastes like sweet black cherries, though it’s dry. Full-bodied and generous (not to a fault). Drink: 2011-2015. 235994 13.50% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 93/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Tierra Alta Reserva Santa Camila S.A. Carmenère 2007, Maule Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: Trophy Winner for Best Wine Under £10 (approximately $15 CDN) at the 2009 Decanter World Wine Awards. It features aromas of coffee, raspberry, spring flowers and earth. Dry with ripe fruit, balancing acidity and just a touch of tannin. My note: Yahoo! What a fantastic wine for the money. Savoury with complexity and dark fruit and a deep woodsy aromas that I adore. Astounding for the price. Drink: 2011-2015. 236067 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Pepe Nero Salento Cignomoro Primitivo 2009, I.G.P., Puglia, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This excellent Primitivo is deep ruby in the glass and offers notes of sweet berry and red fruit. Dry with excellent balance and lots of fruit on the palate that carries through on the long finish. Very tasty, and at a very good price. My note: Juicy, purple mocha infused nose meets full-bodied smooth goodness on the tongue. Lip-smacking tasty blueberry notes. Perfect for pizza night. Drink: 2011-2014. 230730 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Majella The Musician Cabernet Shiraz 2009, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: This blend of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon and 43% Shiraz grapes minty-blackberry goodness. Full-bodied and smooth; it’s ready to go when you are. Excellent price for this quality. Drink: 2011-2015. 142018 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Kaesler The Bogan No Fining Or Filtration Shiraz 2007, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: The Shiraz for this wine is sourced from Kaesler vineyards planted in 1899 and 1965. The wines are matured for 15 months in French oak. My note: Fall-in-love, fall into the glass! This plush, come on in wine with loaded with plush, luxurious black cherry aromas and lapping layers of liquid velvet. (Yes, I love alliteration!) Stunning craftsmanship. Drink: 2011-2016. 4234 15.50% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 95/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2006, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: A spectacular blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon and 31% Shiraz. Classic aromas fleshy ripe blackberries and lush plums. A finish that last forever… and a day. Drink: 2011-2018. 528356 13.50% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 93/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

The Black Chook Woop Woop Wines Shiraz Viognier 2009, South Australia, Australia: Surprisingly excellent for the price, wow. This wine is a blend of 94% Shiraz and 6% Viognier from McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek. Blackberry jam lusciousness with some mint. Layers and layers and layers of pleasure. Eyes closed kinda wine. Drink: 2011-2015. 66738 14.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Dark Side Of The Moon Claymore Wines Shiraz 2009, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Mint and blackberry on the nose, with a laser-like focus and cleanness on the palate similar to cabernet: well-structured and balanced, not flabby. Terrific winemaking here. Drink: 2011-2015. 72652 1% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 92/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Rosewood Pinot Noir 2009, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Medium ruby with notes of smoke, cherry, smoked meat and spiced plum. Dry, medium bodied and well balanced with bright berry fruit, smoke and really vibrant acidity and fine tannins. An exciting Pinot from a very strong vintage. This will reward 3-4 years in the cellar or enjoy it tonight. My note: Tart cherries, austere like Burgundy, I like this style. Mouth-watering acidity with some tart cranberry on the finish. Drink: 2011-2014. 112177 12.50% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Inniskillin Meritage 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Merlot-centred blend with aromas of currants, sour cherry, saddle leather, vanilla bean, spice and a touch of smoke. Dry with plenty of ripe fruit surrounded by gentle tannins and fresh acidity. Medium-full bodied with a lingering, fruity, soft-tannin finish. Can age 2-3 years, but is ready to drink tonight. My note: Terrific balance and savoury character here with some lovely dark berries. Smooth and long with lots of pleasure in each glass. Drink: 2011-2014. 91132 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Concha Y Toro Trio Reserva 2009, Maipo Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: A blend of three grapes (the “Trio”): Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Cabernet Franc. Viña Concha y Toro finds the warmth and lengthy growing season they need to perfectly ripen the grapes for this wine in the Maipo Valley. From Cab Sauv the wine gets cassis fruit and body; from Shiraz, blackberry and peppery tones; and from Cab Franc, a lovely herbaceous accent. My note: extraordinary value/taste for the money! Mocha and dark chocolate aromas wrap themselves seductively around a core of fleshy blackberry fruit. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2011-2014. 433912 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Domaine Chante Cigale Tradition 2007, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: This spectacular a brilliant blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and 5% Cinsault has both Old World charm and New World concentration and depth of fruit. It reminds me of ancient monastery where the monks illuminate manuscripts: that smoky, earthy kind of aroma tinged with black fruit. Extraordinary… take your mouth on an adventure. Drink: 2011-2022. 194993 15% D 750 mL $37.95 Score: 92/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Château Valrose Cuvée Alienor 2005, A.C., St-Estèphe, Bordeaux, France: Tarry black fruit with a pleasantly bitter grip and finish. Full-bodied and rich. Could use some time in the cellar. Drink: 2014-2020. 710517 14% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 91/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Tommasi Il Sestante Ripasso Valpolicella 2009, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Drinking beautifully right now. Features aromas of plum, raspberry, hickory smoke, spice box and mocha. Dry, fruity, round and ripe. Fairly flavourful with a nice spiced fruit note and rush of acidity on the end to freshen it all up. My note: Savoury, dark and juicy with wild black cherries and cedar notes. Full-bodied and smooth. Great value. Drink: 2011-2015. 181719 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Pinot Noir 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: An intriguing nose offering masala spice, cherry, black raspberry, smoke, nutmeg and cloves. Dry and medium bodied, the palate is very fresh and seamlessly balanced and poised. Characterful and with great structure. The alcohol is 12.5% and beautifully integrated with the tannins, acidity and fruit. Wonderfully harmonious. Cellar for 2-4 years or enjoy tonight. My note: Lovely sweetly ripe cherries on the nose with soft rose petals. Medium-bodied and satin smooth. Surely, one of Canada’s best pinots at this price point (it’s a bargain). Drink: 2011-2016. 33894 12.50% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Coopers Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Intense aromas of raspberry, grated beet, red cherry, red plum, vanilla and cinnamon stick. Dry, nice and lithe with a light body and a ripe, fruit-driven fruit core balanced by vibrant acidity. Fine tannins lend the right touch of structure. Gently spicy, red-fruit finish. A crowd-pleasing Pinot. My note: Cranberry, beetroot and tart cherries: it’s a style you like or don’t. Acidic and mouth-watering with great refreshment. Drink: 2011-2014. 57802 13.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Luis Felipe Edwards Reserva Merlot 2009, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: 2010 AWC-Vienna International Wine Challenge Gold Medal winner. A wine to match your carnivore’s delight feast. My note: extraordinary and unusual flavour concentration for this price point. Like merlot? You’ll love this one! You’ll want a case. Terrific aromas of mocha, black plums. Drink: 2011-2014. 250340 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Lamadrid Single Vineyard Reserva Fincas De Agrelo Malbec 2008, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: This Malbec from Luján de Cuyo shows the intensity this sub-region of Mendoza is known for, and offers exceptional value. A fine food-match wine for flavourful meat-based pasta dishes. My note: Tasty and delicious with full-bodied richness and black fruit. Perfect for BBQs and movie night Drink: 2011-2015. 234492 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Corte Majoli Amarone Della Valpolicella 2007, D.O.C.G., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: A quintessentially Italian wine, this is classic Amarone. Offers delectable aromas of chocolate, coffee bean, oak, and black cherry fruit. Medium bodied, dry and perfectly balanced with notes of chocolate, spice and a fruity core and finish. My note: Juicy purple plums and cherry liqueur. Huge concentration and extraction. Long finish. Drink: 2011-2019. 81943 15.50% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 91/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Mullineux Syrah 2008, W.O., Swartland, South Africa: Wonderful wine for a charcuterie and fresh-fig platter. Lovely, elegant and juicy with fleshy ripe black fruit and a hint of smoky oak. Terrific balance and length. Drink: 2011-2015. 246553 14.50% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Lavau Gigondas 2009, A.C., Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Deep and intense aromas of black cherry, tea leaves, earth tones, blueberry, black pepper and fresh herbs. Dry with very good aroma replays (especially raspberry, black pepper and tea). Ripe and juicy centre that’s balanced out by good mid-palate tannins. Medium bodied, with a very solid finish. Showing very well now with charcuterie or beef brisket. It will also reward 2-4 years in a cellar. My note : As they say: lashings of black fruit with a tarry streak through it. Full-bodied and scrumptious, ready to meet any hearty meat dish head on. Drink: 2011-2017. 234955 14% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Rosés

Domaine Houchart Domaines Quiot Rosé 2010, A.C., Côtes De Provence, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Perfect for late-summer alfresco dining, this charming apple-, cherry-, cranberry- and strawberry-scented rosé is dry and fruity with a nice racy acidity bringing balance. Chill it down and try it. My note: Love it! Pretty, perfect and light. Bone-dry and terrific notes of fleeting strawberry sunfields. Amazing price. Drink: 2011-2012. 118653 13% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value Rosé. Full Review

Sparkling Wine

Elio Filippino Vino Rosé Spumante Brut, Piedmont, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Made specially for Italy’s 150th anniversary, this pale salmon-pink sparkling rosé offers good fruit on the nose, with notes of red berry and sweet cherry in particular. The palate is dry, creamy and frothy with more suggestions of lovely red berry and sweet cherry, and closing with a very tasty and tart finish. A great sipper for after your meal, or for celebrating summer with friends. My note: Robust with dark raspberries and strawberries, toasty and refreshing. Amazing for the price. Drink: 2011-2014. 230706 12.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

Pommery, Champagne, France: Toasty and vibrant, with mouth-watering crispness that's perfect to cut through the fat and salt of chips or fried chicken. 68288 12.50% XD 750 mL $50.00 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Full Review

13Th Street Premier Cuvée Traditional Method, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Terrific producer of sparkling wines: always crisp and refreshing with green apple and toasty baked bread notes. Great price for bubbly. Gold Medal winner for Best Sparkling Wine at the 2011 Cuvée Awards. Drink: 2011-2014. 142679 12.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review

Vineland Reserve Brut Charmat Method 2008, V.Q.A., Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: The Charmat method is favoured when you want to emphasize freshness and aromatics, and it’s used to great effect for this Riesling-centric blend. Notes of fresh flowers, apple, pear and mineral delight the nose. Dry with a light body and gentle fizzy mousse. Very pretty minerality here on the tangy finish. Perfect as a sipper for casual gatherings, this will also go nicely with a variety of appetizers. My note: A terrific budget bubbly with attractive toasty apple notes. Excellent craftsmanship. Drink: 2011-2014. 39495 11% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review

Dessert Wine

Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Symington Family Estates Port 2005, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Stunning for the money! Blackberry jam and black cherry liqueur. Super after-dinner enjoyment. Drink: 2011-2015. 613927 20% S 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011 Best Value Dessert Wine. Full Review

Osborne 10 Rf Premium Oloroso Medium, Do Jerez, Spain -- Jerez 87536 750 mL $15.95. September 3, 2011 Full Review