Vintages Wine Picks October 30, 2010

White Wine

Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Riesling Kabinett 2008, Q.M.P., Wehlener Sonnenuhr, Mosel, Germany: Love it! Sweetly ripe peach and pear with a great vein of acidity running through it. So packed with flavour yet light on the alcohol.  189175  8.50%  MD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Norman Hardie County Unfiltered Chardonnay 2008, V.Q.A. Prince Edward County, Canada: Looking at my notes, I realized that "Yes, oh, yes!" is not really a tasting note and might be interpreted as something else. However, it was sheer ecstasy to drink this Chardonnay with its rich layers of buttery, toasted almond goodness. Lovely oak integration and a long satisfying finish that leaves you plesantly yearning for more. Drink: 2010-2014.  184432  12%  D  750 mL  $35.00  Score: 92/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Babich Black Label Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Wonderfully herbal and grassy with support lime and lemon notes. So zesty and refreshing at an amazing price. Knock it back!  9142  13%  XD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 90/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Zenato Pinot Grigio 2009, I.G.T., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Pinot Grigio is enjoying unprecedented popularity, and Alberto Zenato’s modernist approach to winemaking has helped take the grape in exciting new directions, creating wines of considerable intensity. This refreshing version is rife with citrus, floral, pear and mineral flavours leading to a lengthy, crisp finish. My note: Mildly flavoured white with crisp and refreshing acidity. No heavy oak. Good aperitif.  37648  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 87/100. October 30, 2010 Best Value White Wine. Full Review


Marco Bonfante Gavi Rasön Cortese 2009, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Cortese is an ancient variety, and the primary grape grown in the Gavi appellation. Refreshing lime, tangerine and candied fruit highlight the aromas and flavours, rounded out with some fine floral and stony notes. This medium-bodied white has a ripe fruit centre, a slight tang, and good length. Enjoy this Gavi. My note: Crisp and refreshing with mild flavours of white melon and peach. No heavy oak. Good aperitif.  73866  12.50%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 86/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Gerald Favre Vieilles Vignes Pouilly-Fuissé 2009, A.C., Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Made in a traditional unoaked Chablis style, this wine is tangy and crisp, with aromas and flavours of green apple, lemon and fresh pastry, plus lovely mineral notes. Enjoy this taste of Chablis tonight. My note: Pure and lovely with refreshing notes of white peach, green apple and lime. Zesty and balanced with a medium body.  187658  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $27.95  Score: 88/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Alain Geoffroy Beauroy Chablis, 1Er Cru 2007, A.C., Burgundy, France: A zippy, pear-ripe white with a zesty acidity and purity of line. No oak. Crisp and refreshing. Drink: 2010-2014.  733501  13%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 90/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Castello Della Cervaro Della Sala, Marchesi Antinori Chardonnay Grechetto 2008, I.G.T., Umbria, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Antinori’s family estate in Umbria is Castello della Sala. There, they produce wines such as this fine white, which is an oak-aged blend of Chardonnay and Grechetto. Lovely aromas of yellow plum, spring flowers and woodsmoke are front and centre. This dry, lithe, well-made and impeccably balanced wine is drinking beautifully now or enjoy it over the next 5+ years. My note: A rich and luxurious white infused with hazelnut, smoke, baking spices and baked apples. Full-bodied and voluptuous.  512376  13%  XD  750 mL  $54.95  Score: 91/100. October 30, 2010 Favourite White Wine. Full Review


Red Wine

Château Ducla Supérieur, Domaines Mau Cabernet Blend 2008, A.C., Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Hidden away within Bordeaux are many little gems. While the Latours and the Margaux of the world get all the hype, wineries such as Château Ducla create fine wines vintage after vintage that can satisfy on so many levels: cost, drinkability and food-matching versatility. My note: A simple, tasty, robust red with juicy dark berry aromas. Smooth and satisfying. Drink: 2010-2013.  162461  12%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 87/100. October 30, 2010 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review


Southbrook Vineyards Triomphe Syrah 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine won a Silver Medal at the 2010 Ontario Wine Awards, and swirling, sniffing and sipping shows why. The wine finds a happy balance between the Rhône and Aussie Shiraz styles. Aromas suggest pepper, black raspberry, plum, red licorice and vanilla. Dry, with pretty, lush fruit that is almost instantly refreshed by racy acidity. The tannins act as a complement to the fruit and acid. Enjoy this medium-bodied wine. My note: Chocolate and dark plum aromas on the nose. This supple, full-bodied and tasty wine is a very pleasant quaffer. Drink: 2010-2015.  129809  11.80%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 88/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Ruffino Ducale Oro Riserva Chianti Classico 2005, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: I’m loving this wine more than I have in any other vintage so far! It’s juicy, ripe yet balanced. Lovely dark berry fruit and spices. Full-bodied with a long finish. Drink: 2010-2017.  353201  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $43.95  Score: 91/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Taja Reserva Mähler-Besse Monastrell 2005, D.O., Jumilla, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: Mähler-Besse’s Taja Reserva is made mostly with Monastrell (the local name for Mourvèdre), plus dashes of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon. It is matured for 12 months in oak barrels and then given a further 24 months of bottle ageing before release. A definite crowd-pleaser, this is a perfect choice for pizza or pasta night. My note: A simple, robust, tasty red for quaffing not analyzing. Dark fruit and some oak.  243329  14%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 86/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Christian Moueix Merlot 2007, A.C., Pomerol, Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Christian Moueix developed a series of signature appellation wines. This is his Merlot-based Pomerol. In Moueix’s opinion, this wine demonstrates Pomerol’s terroir perfectly. Pomerol is known for its small yields, tiny production and opulent Merlot-centric wines with, usually, equally luxurious prices to match. This wine captures the style at a fraction of the cost. My note: A much-improved wine for this vintage! Juicy and tasty with lovely blackberry aromas. Mouth-watering and full-bodied. A smoky long finish Drink: 2010-2014.  903013  13%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Mr. Riggs Shiraz Viognier 2007, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: Ben Riggs has been crafting fine wines for over 15 years – and now under his own moniker. His Shiraz/Viognier sports aromas of blackberry, coffee, pepper, and ripe, smoky cherry. The palate is rewarded again and again as you sip. A nicely balanced, medium-full-bodied red with a smooth finish. My note: Juicy, full-bodied whom with aromas of black berries and fruit. Very smooth and mouth-watering. Ready to go when you are. Drink: 2010-2015.  186098  14.50%  D  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 92/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Joseph Phelps Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Napa Valley, California, United States: So elegant and balanced with lovely, lovely notes of classic blackcurrant, cassis and blackberry. Some smoke on a long finish. Does taste as alcoholic as it is. Drink: 2010-2018.  189795  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $74.95  Score: 93/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Sanford Pinot Noir 2008, Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Sanford was the first producer to plant Pinot Noir in the Santa Rita Hills area. That was 1971, and today we are truly fortunate to be able to enjoy the fruits of their labour. Lovely and bright with cherry and strawberry eau-du-vie notes on the nose. Medium bodied and dry, this Pinot is beautifully balanced with complex smoky fruit and gentle tannins. My note: Stunning with gorgeous depth of satin cherry flavour. Not heavy but packed with flavour. A hedonist’s dream.  206680  13%  D  750 mL  $44.95  Score: 93/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Marchese Antinori Riserva Chianti Classico 2006, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine is basically a selection of the very best Sangiovese grapes from Antinori’s Chianti Classico vineyards (excluding those used for their top-end Badia a Passignano). Look for raspberry, plum, strawberry, dried meat and new leather aromas and flavours. This dry and fresh, youthful wine will still benefit from cellar time (3-5 years), but if you decant it (2 hours) you can enjoy it tonight. My note: Very classic chianti with yart cherry liqueur and some dark spices. Full-bodied and smooth. This would be amazing with almost any tomato-sauce or Italian dish. Drink: 2010-2016.  512384  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Condado De Haza Crianza Tempranillo 2007, D.O., Ribera Del Duero, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: Owner Alejandro Fernández is a legendary figure in Ribera del Duero. His 100% Tempranillo features aromas of blackberry, espresso, cedar and mineral. The wine is a fine combination of ample fruit, good depth and firm tannic structure. Fernández recommends serving this wine with lamb, roast suckling pig, sirloin steaks, or semi-cured sheep cheese. It will also reward 3-5 years in a cellar. My note: I love the mature taste of this wine: leather, spice and smoke with a backdrop of dried red fruit. Chewy and savoury and ready to drink now. Drink: 2010-2016.  963348  14%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 90/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Glaymond Asif Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Juicy and dark with mouth-watering flavours of dark chocolate and black plums. Full-bodied and tasty!  64022  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 90/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Oliverhill Petite Sirah 2007, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A humongous wine with huge black fruit flavours that are liqueur-like in concentration. Smooth and supple.  191585  15%  D  750 mL  $46.95  Score: 90/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Terre Puglia Cantine Di Marco Primitivo Di Manduria 2007, D.O.C., Puglia, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Cantine di Marco has been in the wine business since 1872. Their Primitivo di Manduria possesses beguiling aromas and flavours of red plum, blackberry, hay and candied fruit, with soothing notes of vanilla and spice. This is a full-bodied red with a lush centre and good length.. My note: Packed with purple plums and blue berries! Very New World, with a vibrant fruit-forward style. Full-bodied and smooth. Terrific party wine. Drink: 2010-2014.  181248  14%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: You smell this wine and you say, “Oh that’s nice. The evening may turn out well, after all.” Lovely cherry spice notes with an absolutely seductive satin texture. Good this is good juice. The Wagner family (of Caymus fame) is responsible for the Belle Glos label. While Chuck Wagner wows wine lovers with his Caymus Cabernets, his son Joseph continues to win fans with his Pinots Drink: 2010-2016.  652883  1.70%  XD  750 mL  $48.95  Score: 93/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Mocali Brunello Di Montalcino 2004, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Juicy and delicious with over-flowing ripe cherry fruit, smoke and spices. Full-bodied and wonderful! Drink: 2010-2019.  64956  14%  XD  750 mL  $46.95  Score: 92/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Cave De Tain Syrah Blend 2007, Crozes Hermitage, Rhône, France: A lovely juicy, spicy wine with fleshy ripe cherries and smoke. Medium-bodied and satin smooth. Terrific! Gold Medal winner at the 2009 Concours des Grands Vins de France. Drink: 2010-2015.  572230  12.50%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Cabriz Reserva Dão Sul - Soc. Vitivini. Touriga Nacional Tinta Roriz Alfrocheiro Preto 2007, D.O.C., Dão, Portugal: Vintages Wine Panel: From the Dão region, this dry wine is made using some of the grapes normally associated with Port, namely Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz, plus Alfrocheiro Preto. It has a lovely nose of spicy berry-fruit and light leather, followed by aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, ripe cherry, black licorice, vanilla and woodspice. There’s good length to this medium-full-bodied red. My note: Big juicy New World style red with lusciously ripe aromas of fleshy berries and purple plums. If you like Australian shiraz, you’ll love this. Some smoke and spice to finish. Drink: 2010-2013.  21410  13.50%  D  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Bottega Il Vino Degli Dei Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: The Bottega family has been in the wine business since the 1920s, and their expertise shows. This Amarone greets you with a chicory/coffee nose, then reveals flavours of raisins, plums, and spiced cherry, with hints of tobacco and leather. The flavours replay nicely on the palate, with lovely purity, up to its smooth, dry finish. My note: Beautifully sculpted and flavoured. It sure doesn’t taste as alcoholic as it is. Full-bodied is probably an understatement. This wine has amazing and endless flavours of black cherry liqueur blackberry preserves, smoke and spice. Drink: 2010-2025.  181537  17.50%  XD  750 mL  $41.95  Score: 95/100. October 30, 2010 Favourite Red Wine Tied. Full Review


Luis Felipe Edwards Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: For their Gran Reserva wines, the winery sources the very best grapes from their estate vineyards. Barrel aged in French and American oak for 12 months, this Cabernet displays aromas of black plum, cassis, eucalyptus and vanilla. Dry and silky, with subtle oak spice giving the wine dimension. The producers indicate that these are the wines they reserve for their family gatherings. Enjoy at your own family gathering. My note: Aromas of dark chocolate and black plums. Full-bodied and smooth with a satisfying finish. Drink: 2010-2014.  169847  14%  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Austin Hope Winery Hope Family Vineyard Syrah 2008, Paso Robles, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: This superbly well-structured Syrah delivers on all counts. Deep black/purple in the glass, it is loaded with black fruit and pepper aromas. On the palate, it is simply brimming with lovely plum, black cherry and pepper. The medium tannins and acidity are in perfect balance, and the long, smoky finish is truly beautiful. My note: Gorgeous depth and concentration of fleshy black berries and fruit. This is so darn tasty, just try it. Drink: 2010-2015.  686121  15.50%  D  750 mL  $39.95  Score: 92/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Grant Burge The Holy Trinity Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2005, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: This wine is a blend of 40% grenache, 35% shiraz and 25% mourvedre. Enticing concentration and depth with lip-smacking aromas and flavours of black cherry, blackberry and spices. Length, depth; it’s got it all.  726802  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 91/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Greg Norman California Estates Pinot Noir 2008, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: A fine choice, this classic Santa Barbara Pinot is chock full of aromas and flavours of black cherry, smoked meat, spice, coffee and a hint of tar. It is round and ripe with just enough tannin and acid to give it a nice freshness and short-term ageability (1-3 years). My note: Sweetly juicy cherry fruit that finishes dry and ultimately satisfying. Juicy, luscious and ready drink apart from the golf course. Drink: 2010-2015.  687988  13.90%  D  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 92/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Château De Raousset Gamay 2009, A.C., Morgon, Beaujolais, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Award-winning wines have been crafted at Château Raousset since the 1860s. The Morgan exhibits a ruby-violet colour, and offers aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, plum, cherry, candied fruit and banana chip. This is a smooth, medium-bodied wine with a bit of spice on the finish. A thoroughly enjoyable Beaujolais that pairs well. My note: Lovely cherry spice and mouth-watering berry aromas and flavours. Medium-bodied and silky smooth. Love it! Drink: 2010-2013.  183665  13%  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Wayne Gretzky Estate Series Shiraz Cabernet 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: From the lauded 2007 vintage comes this well-made Shiraz/Cabernet blend from The Great One’s winery. The Shiraz plays forward on the nose with aromas of blackberry, pepper and underbrush. The Cabernet is nicely represented by cassis, with the Shiraz contributing peppery spice. Dry, crisp and fruity with soft tannins for balance. Medium-full bodied with a crisp, medium-long, fruit-filled finish. A great wine to enjoy while tuning in to Saturday-night hockey. My note: A lip-smacking tasty red with chocolate and dark plum notes. Full-bodied and hulky like a left-wing defenseman. (Can you tell I don’t watch hockey?) Very satisfying and worth the money. Drink: 2010-2014.  162180  12.70%  D  750 mL  $22.85  Score: 88/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Edward Sellers Cognito Mourvedre Syrah 2006, Paso Robles, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: This blend of 45% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah, 20% Zinfandel and 15% Grenache has aromas of bumbleberry and rhubarb pie that will have your mouth watering with anticipation as you nose this wine. Best of all, these delectable notes are echoed on the very fresh and complex palate. This wine has so much to like, and so much to get to know. It will also be a happy camper in a cellar for 2-4 years. My note: A big honkin' red with blackberry jam and black cherry liqueur. Full-on wine for those who want maximum alcoholic bang for their buck. Drink: 2010-2015.  194324  14.90%  XD  750 mL  $26.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Felicité The Newton Johnson Family Pinot Noir 2009, W.O., Eilandia, Walker Bay, South Africa: Vintages Wine Panel: As this wine shows, the Robertson sub-appellation of Eliandia and the Ward attached to the cool-climate Walker Bay, Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, are making remarkable advances with the finicky Pinot Noir. This version from the Newton Johnson family features classic cherry, earth and vanilla aromas and flavours. Dry, fruity and very clean with just a hint of tannin. This is a good choice if you want to enjoy a red wine with fish. My note: Gorgeous wine for the money. Big mouth-watering acidity with tart cherries, but I love it! Supple and medium-bodied and a spicy finish. Can’t believe they priced it this low.  173005  13.50%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Haywood Los Chamizal Vineyard Zinfandel 2006, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: I like it! Combines some zesty pepper notes with lusciously ripe dark berries and plums. Round, smooth and full-bodied. Very juicy and delicious. Drink: 2010-2015.  949255  14.60%  D  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 92/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Carabella Pinot Noir 2006, Chehalem Mountains, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Packed with sweetly ripe cherries and raspberries: like running through a field on a summer day with your senses soaking in the sun. Medium-bodied and satin smooth. Love this wine. Drink: 2010-2015.  180125  14.70%  D  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 92/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Ornellaia Le Serre Nuove Dell'ornellaia, Bolgheri Superiore Merlot Cabernets Sauvignon 2008, D.O.C., Tuscany, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This estate has a track record envied by wineries all over the world. Demand today for the wines of Tenuta dell’ Ornellaia has never been higher. Le Serre Nuove, a blend of Merlot, Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc, and Petit Verdot, is a bright and fruity wine with red and black berries tinged by subtle oak nuances of chocolate and clove. My note: Tasty with dark fruit. Needs cellar time. A little short on the finish but none the less satisfying, especially for those who collection verticals of this wine. Drink: 2012-2017.  606194  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $59.95  Score: 89/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Château de Beaucastel Coudoulet De Beaucastel Syrah Blend 2008, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône, France: Wildly delicious! This wine has it all: juicy, black cherry fruit, mouth-watering acidity, full-bodied weight yet it’s not heavy or hot. Fabulous balance and structure and so versatile with food. If you’re coming over, please bring a bottle of this with you please. Drink: 2010-2018.  48884  14%  D  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 94/100. October 30, 2010 Favourite Red Wine Tied. Full Review


Sparkling Wine

Roederer Estate Brut Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A robust bubbly with toasty notes of green apples and white peach. This sparkling wine is a blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir.  294181  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $28.95  Score: 90/100. October 30, 2010 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review


Baron-Fuenté Grand Millésimé Brut Champagne 2003, A.C., Champagne, France: Vintages Wine Panel: The Baron family has been cultivating vineyards in the Champagne region since the 17th Century. This very affordable vintage-dated Champagne has a lovely mature style, with aromas of citrus and rye bread that join in with the honeyed flavours of buckwheat, apple, lemon and bread dough. Crisp and tangy on the palate, you’ll want to raise a glass of this well-crafted bubbly. My note: Toasty and crisp with refreshing notes of green apples, almond and white melon.  155119  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $47.95  Score: 88/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review


Roederer Estate Brut Rosé Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, California, United States: Spectacular with lovely lifted notes of field strawberries and raspberries. Pretty pink, but robust in flavour.  479758  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $34.95  Score: 92/100. October 30, 2010 Favourite Sparkling Wine. Full Review


Dessert Wine

Quinta Do Noval Late Bottled Vintage Unfiltered Port 2003, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Love it! Juicy fleshy blackberry preserves. Gorgeous concentration and depth. Perfect for after dinner.  677815  19%  S  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 91/100. October 30, 2010 Best Value Dessert Wine. Full Review


Croft Rosé Port, Douro Valley, Portugal: This rosé wine proves that port isn't just for winter and formal occasions. This is cool refreshment in a glass when served with ice; makes a great summertime drink. It offers aromas of field raspberries and sun-warmed roses. Try it and surprise yourself at how versatile port can be.  140871  19%  S  750 mL  $20.00  Score: 87/100. October 30, 2010 Full Review