Vintages Wine Picks March 5, 2011

White Wine

Bernard Reverdy Et Fils Sancerre 2009, A.C., Loire, France: My mouth waters just smelling this wine. Aromas of white grapefruit and lime. Very refreshing. Drink: 2011-2015.  200055  13%  XD  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Fog Head Highlands Reserve Chardonnay 2009, Monterey County, Highland Series, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Tasty, toasty Chardonnay with loads of tropical fruit and citrus aromas. Dry and zippy with lots of fruit on the palate. A nicely balanced, mouth-filling wine. My note: Robust with buttery oak and a hazelnut-infused finish. In the middle, there are green apple notes. Drink: 2011-2015.  158568  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Willy Gisselbrecht Pinot Gris 2008, A.C., Alsace, France: A mouth-watering white with zippy aromas of lime and white apricot. Medium-bodied with a touch of sweetness. Drink: 2011-2016.  641597  13%  MD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Villa Maria Private Bin Riesling 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand, New Zealand: Vintages Wine Panel: Founded in the 1960s and still helmed by recently knighted owner, Sir George Fistonich, family-owned Villa Maria remains one of New Zealand’s leading wineries. This brilliant, straw-coloured Riesling is loaded with citrus and mineral notes. Attractive and elegant on the palate with a zesty acidity, and sporting lime, green apple and mineral flavours leading to a long and crisp finish. My note: Lime-juicy with a lemon-infused finish. In between there’s lots of mouth-watering flavour. Medium-bodied and very versatile with food. Drink: 2011-2015.  62240  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value White Wine. Full Review


Penfolds Thomas Hyland Chardonnay 2009, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia: Lots of buttery oaky goodness. So generous with green apples and peach. Yum! Drink: 2011-2016.  611228  13%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value White Wine. Full Review


Charles Baker Picone Vineyard Riesling 2008, V.Q.A., Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: I love this wine: it’s an elevation of what Niagara does best among white wines: Riesling! Deep minerality with lime and green apple. Superbly made by one of Canada’s superstar winemakers. Drink: 2011-2018.  126433  10.50%  D  750 mL  $35.20  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Favourite White Wine. Full Review


Domaine De La Tour Chablis Monts-Main 1Er Cru Chardonnay 2008, A.C., Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Gold Medal winner at the 2010 Concours des Vins de Chablis. All the elements in the 2008 vintage conspired to create great white wines, such as this Chablis from Domaine de la Tour. Look for classic aromas and flavours of green apple, chalky minerals, pear and citrus. An ageable wine (3-5+ years). My note: Unoaked chardonnay, this is refreshing and pure with green apple notes and mouth-watering acidity. This is not rich and buttery like New World chardonnays in any sense. Very austere with subtle flavours. Don’t over-chill or you won’t smell anything. Drink: 2011-2016.  159731  13%  XD  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Maculan Pinot Grigio 2009, D.O.C., Breganze, Veneto, Italy: A refreshing and vibrant pinot Grigio with lime, lemon and grapefruit notes. Green melon and bone dry. Good aperitif… imagine yourself on the dock now, eyes closed, sipping a chilled glass of this. Drink: 2011-2014.  734921  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value White Wine. Full Review


Cave Spring Estate Bottled Gewürztraminer 2009, V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Cave Spring has landed another winner with this 2009 Gewürztraminer. Candied citrus, white flower, peach, apricot, and spice. Medium bodied, off-dry, with a tangy citrus note on the palate. Balanced and very well made, this is an appealing Ontario Gewürz with great character. My note: restrained in a lovely way: intriguing gewurz aromas but not overdone. Floral and lychee aromas. Perfect for curries and spices. Drink: 2011-2015.  302059  13%  MD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Thelema Mountain Sutherland Sauvignon Blanc 2008, W.O., Stellenbosch Elgin, South Africa: Incredible price! Hernal, lime and grassy. Very refreshing. Wonderful quaffer. Drink: 2011-2014.  203877  13%  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value White Wine. Full Review


Caruso & Minini Timpune Grillo 2009, I.G.T., Sicily, Italy: Lime and lemon with white apricot and field daisies. Savoury and mouth-watering. Drink: 2011-2014.  203943  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Amaral Cool Climate Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Leyda Valley, Chile: Herbal and dry with mouth-watering flavours of chives, green apple and lime. Medium-bodied. Needs food. Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2010 Concours Mondial du Sauvignon. Drink: 2011-2014.  48025  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value White Wine. Full Review


Domaine Gautheron Chablis Chardonnay 2008, A.C., Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A Gold Medal winner at both the Concours Général Agricole 2010 in Paris and the 2010 Concours des Burgondia d’Or. It is a tasty, vibrant Chardonnay bursting with apple and flint character, and wonderfully precise Chablis structure. A great wine to enjoy with the fish course. My note: Very subtle flavours, no oak. Green apple, mouth-watering. Drink: 2011-2016.  207902  13%  D  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Twenty Twenty-Seven Cellars Featherstone Vineyard Riesling 2009, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Pale platinum in the glass. Lively and complex notes of mineral, lime, apple, pear, and orchard blossoms. Dry, medium bodied, juicy and mouth-watering, with some residual sugar balanced by waves of brilliantly vibrant acidity. Nice, fresh finish. This is an exceptional food wine, and a great expression of Niagara terroir. Expect this to evolve nicely over the next 5+ years, or enjoy it tonight. My note: A mouth-watering, juicy wine with white peach and white apricot. A touch of sweetness makes it absolutely lovely and very versatile with food. Drink: 2011-2015.  92353  11%  D  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Concha Y Toro Maycas Del Limari Reserva Especial Chardonnay 2007, Limarí Valley, Chile: Stunning! Hazelnut, green apple and a little butter and toast. So seductive. This is my kind of chardonnay. Full-bodied but supremely balanced. Drink: 2011-2015.  162040  13%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 93/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Loredona Riesling 2009, Monterey County, California, United States: Lemon and floral essence, with a soft acidity and weight. Very pretty white. Great aperitif. Drink: 2011-2014.  59782  12%  D  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Astrolabe Voyage Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Herbal and grassy fresh! Very vibrant and live. Mouth-watering notes of lime and grapefruit. I like it. Drink: 2011-2014.  10421  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 93/100. March 5, 2011 Favourite White Wine. Full Review


Red Wine

Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Napa Valley, California, United States: A full-bodied and savoury cab with dark fruit and smoke. Long finish. Classic Cal cab. Drink: 2011-2016.  479550  14.20%  D  750 mL  $44.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Rodney Strong Merlot 2006, Sonoma County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: A Silver Medal winner at the 2010 Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition in San Diego. Medium ruby hue. Lovely bouquet brimming with scents of blackberry, plum, sour/red cherry, mineral and hickory. Good aroma replays on the dry, medium-full bodied, plush yet elegantly fruity palate. Gentle tannins, bright acidity, and great harmony here. Terrific barbecue wine, or cellar for 2-3 years. My note: A generous smooth wine showing good balance and satisfying plum aromas. Drink: 2011-2015.  497933  13.80%  D  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Quintarelli Primofiore Corvina Rondinella Molinara 2006, I.G.T., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: An exceptional blend of the Veneto trio: Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. Primofiore is packed with complex rich flavours of cherry, olives, exotic spices, and oak. Giuseppe Quintarelli designs this wine to be enjoyed much younger than most of his wines. There is a touch of Amarone added to this fresh blend for additional complexity before the wine begins its maturation in oak. My note: Stunning seduction! Fleshy cherry liqueur aromas followed up by mixed spices and ripe dark red fruit. Full-bodied and as smooth a velvet dress with a satin petticoat. I am undone. But before I faint top me up will you please? Drink: 2011-2018.  20867  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $59.95  Score: 95/100. March 5, 2011 Favourite Red Wine. Full Review


Man Vintners Shiraz 2009, W.O., Coastal Region, South Africa: Absolute wow for this price! Juicy purple plums and flashy dark berries … just roll with it. Smooth and generous. This wine is as comfortable and immediately likeable as your favourite pair of jeans. Drink: 2011-2015.  71332  14%  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Marqués De Murrieta Reserva Tempranillo Garnacha Mazuelo 2005, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Oh so yummy! Full-bodied and mouth-watering with rich, dark, ripe fruit and a lovely weave of oak. This wine is a blend of 84% tempranillo, 13% garnacha and 3% mazuelo. A Diana Krall wine: packs power in a velvet glove. Drink: 2011-2016.  209148  14%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Maison Roche De Bellene Pinot Noir 2008, A.C., Côtes De Nuits-Villages, Burgundy, France: A light, juicy, happy wine… bottled sunshine. Vibrant berry notes, cranberry and so smooth. Lovely! Perfect as an aperitif. Drink: 2011-2014.  208074  12.50%  D  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Bodegas Callia Magna Shiraz 2008, Tulum Valley, San Juan, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: Beautifully structured, complex, with great and balanced tannic presence, it’s loaded with notes of cloves, cinnamon, raspberries, vanilla bean and chocolate. Good structure and length. This is still quite youthful, and should show intriguing evolution over the next 2-3 years. My note: Juicy-great with luscious, mouth-watering black and purple plums. Full-bodied and smooth. Perfect for barbecues. Bargain price. Drink: 2011-2014.  218818  13%  XD  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Malma Reserva Bodega Nqn Malbec 2007, Neuquén, Patagonia, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: Malma means “pride” in the language of the indigenous Mapuche. Deep purple in colour, this friendly Malbec teems with blueberry, cassis, and plum with some earthy notes. A well-made, medium-full-bodied red with a sweet core. Relax and enjoy. My note: Love it! Chewy and full-bodied with generously lush black and purple plums. Smooth with lots of layers of flavour and pleasure. Drink: 2011-2015.  222158  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Simi Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Opaque ruby colour. This wine is so dark you could look at an eclipse through it. Wonderful aromas, including Black Forest cake, fresh sour cherry, mocha and smoke. Dry, elegant and harmonious with fine fruit, zippy acidity and firm, but very pleasant tannins. This full-bodied, long finishing wine is a great match for a hearty beef, rice and tomato dish. It’ll also evolve with 2-4 years in cellar. My note: This cabernet also has small amount of Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. A terrific red with delicious fruit but it’s not too big. Drink: 2011-2016.  25221  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $21.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Château Ducla Supérieur Cabernet Blend 2008, A.C., Bordeaux, France: Juicy and rustic, with mouth-watering notes of tart black raspberries and cedar. Full-bodied and a touch tannic so decant for 1-2 hours. Drink: 2011-2015.  162461  12%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review


Laurence Féraud Selection Syrah 2007, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Rich, savoury and delicious with big dark red fruit aromas. There’s some band aid here (positive thing) and a long finish. A dark spice infused finish that lingers and lingers. Drink: 2011-2020.  211474  14%  XD  750 mL  $42.95  Score: 93/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Cline Cellars Los Carneros Syrah 2006, Carneros, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Deep ruby in the glass. Rich fruit on the nose, with plum, spice, cherry, blackberry, cinnamon and leather. The palate is dry, medium-full bodied with great depth, structure, spice, and tons of rich, delicious fruit. My note: I had to look twice at the price to ensure it wasn’t a typo: what a deal! These folks may be known for their zinfandel, but I love their syrah! Rich and dark with juicy dark berries, bacon and plush texture. Full-bodied with a lovely long finish. I can’t imagine a better wine for a barbecue. Drink: 2011-2015.  955435  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Two Hands Wines Lily's Garden Shiraz 2008, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Big, fleshy blueberries and blackberries wrapped around an intense, concentrated core of dark hedonism. The high alcohol on this wine does add power but there’s enough fruit to handle it. Full-throttle pleasure. Drink: 2011-2019.  683086  15.80%  XD  750 mL  $54.95  Score: 93/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Calera Pinot Noir 2008, Central Coast, California, United States: Ah yes! Voluptuously ripe cherries and cranberries with a pleasant tart finish. Medium- to full-bodied with a satin texture. This is one of California’s masters of pinot noirs. Taste it and see what I’m talking about. Drink: 2011-2016.  933044  14.40%  XD  750 mL  $32.95  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir 2007, California, USA: A silky, plush Pinot with lovely aromas of ripe cherries and smoke. Medium-bodied with a supple texture.  48207  13.50%    750 mL  $19.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Cantine Due Palme Selvarossa Riserva Salice Salentino 2006, D.O.C., Puglia, Italy: Mocha-dark chocolate wraps around dark fleshy fruit. So delicious. Long and dark and deep with savoury, chewy flavours. Smooth and full-bodied with an espresso finish. Drink: 2011-2016.  203976  14%  D  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 91/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Bodegas Lan Crianza 2006, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Lively with rich dark fruit and mouth-watering acidity. Balanced and a smooth, full-bodied texture. Drink: 2011-2014.  166538  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $15.00  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Château Haut-Chaigneau Cabernet Blend 2006, A.C., Lalande De Pomerol, Bordeaux, France: This wine won a Silver Medal at the 2008 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. This wine is 85% merlot, 10% cabernet sauvignon and 5% cabernet franc. Big black brooding fruit and smoke. Full-bodied and intense with a deep, dark core. There’s a pleasant bitterness on the finish that’s refreshing. Drink: 2012-2015.  87650  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $27.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot 2007, Paso Robles, California, United States: A solid wine with a good structure and delicious fleshy plums with mocha. There’s a bit of malbec and petit Verdot in this merlot blend. Nicely balanced. Drink: 2011-2015.  27516  13.50%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Toasted Head Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, North Coast, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Toasted Head isn’t kidding. Besides the lovely raspberry, cherry and mint, there are also well-integrated slatherings of campfire smoke, tobacco and smoked meat aromas here too. Dry and fruity, but with an almost perfect touch of tannin bringing balance. It may be ripe and round at first, but the tannins suggest it will age 2-3 years easily. My note: Toasty good with fleshy blackcurrant and blackberries. Supple with full-bodied weight. A very dependable wine year after year. Drink: 2011-2015.  686824  13%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Domaine Matabrune Bourgueil Cabernet Franc 2009, A.C., Loire, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Domaine de Matabrune is situated in a small, shallow valley where vines were first planted during the Roman period. Deep youthful violet in colour, this fine Cabernet Franc shows aromas of raspberry, rose petal, currant, earth, black plum and spice. The palate is dry and medium bodied, with great balance, and offers black plum, green pepper, herbal, earth, currant and wood before closing with a long, peppery finish. Try this tonight, or, if you wish, tuck a bottle or two away until autumn. My note: Tart cherries with mouth-watering flavours of field berries. Smooth and medium-bodied with a lovely perfume of mixed berries. Drink: 2011-2013.  196865  13%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Masi Grandarella Refosco Carmenere 2006, I.G.T., Rosso Delle Venezie, Veneto, Italy: Mamma mia! Big black cherries and smoke with a massive structure. The liqueur-like richness gets balanced by the drying tannins. Perfect for robust meat dishes and conversations. Drink: 2011-2020.  606921  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $28.95  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Château St. Didier Parnac Malbec Merlot 2006, A.C., Cahors, Southwest, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This Gold Medal-winning Malbec blend is drinking really well now. A complex and delightful wine, it is loaded with red plum, pencil lead, cedar, white pepper, sour berry fruit and smoke. Medium bodied, dry and soft, with a long, tangy finish. My note: Big black plums roll down your mouth with savoury notes. Surprising acidity here makes this a good food wine. Full-bodied, rich and dark. Rustic and tasty. Drink: 2011-2014.  194977  13%  D  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Pillar Box Reserve Henry's Drive Shiraz 2008, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Pitch black as night with tarry, black fruit notes and generous oak. Want a whack on your palate? This is your wine. Yet I do think it delivers pleasure to those who like their wines big and burly. Drink: 2011-2015.  90324  15%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Pierre Gaillard St. Joseph Syrah 2007, A.C., Rhône, France: Savoury, delicious and superbly balanced… in fact, fine-tuned for your drinking pleasure. Full-bodied and smooth with seductive black raspberries and cedar. This is a wine that slips onto your radar and then you find yourself buying it again and again until the store runs out of stock. Drink: 2011-2016.  194928  13%  XD  750 mL  $27.95  Score: 91/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Vineyard Twenty-Nine Cru Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Napa Valley, California, United States: Mocha and toasty oak on the nose: blackberry fruit comes through on the palate. Rich, dark and full-bodied with an espresso finish. Drink: 2012-2016.  212241  14.80%  XD  750 mL  $59.95  Score: 91/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Elderton Friends Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A blackberry-rich, menthol nose with a lovely river of black fruit flavour. Full-bodied and smooth. This is an absolutely wonderful wine for the money, especially if it’s someone else’s money. A long finish. Drink: 2011-2015.  595389  14%  XD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


St. Gervais Réserve Syrah 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône, Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This crowd-pleaser is simply loaded with rich plum, black cherry, ripe black fruit and spicy notes. Dry, smooth and full bodied, it over-delivers with boatloads of glorious fruit on the palate. The medium-long finish is lightly tannic, with chocolate and sweet spice throughout. My note: Robust and ready to go when you are. A bit rustic and rough around the edges tannin-wise but savoury and delicious. Decant for 1-2 hours and you’ll smooth it out considerably. Great party wine or perfect for movie night. Drink: 2011-2015.  219741  14.50%  D  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Chateau St. Jean Merlot 2008, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Chateau St. Jean’s winemaker, Margo Van Staave, has been working the vineyards here for over 30 years. In that time, she has created many award-winning wines, and was named 2008 Winemaker of the Year by Wine Enthusiast magazine. The 2008 Merlot is rich with notes of ripe cherries, wood and spice. Beautifully structured, the palate is well balanced and deliciously fruity right through to the end of the wonderfully long finish. This versatile wine will pair with a great variety of dishes. Try it tonight. My note: A consistency great producer! This merlot delivers the goods: plush plums, supple texture and full-bodied goodness. This wine can move from casual nights with take-out to a dinner party. Drink: 2011-2015.  25304  14.20%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Pisoni Teroldego 2008, I.G.T., Vigneti Delle Dolomiti, Alto Adige Trentino, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: The red Teroldego grape is grown primarily in Northern Italy, and is genetically related to Syrah. Ruby-coloured, this wine bursts with blueberry, raspberry, plum, herbs and spice. The flavours echo nicely on the palate, with good structure and terrific length. An excellent value! Try this taste of Trentino tonight. My note: A rustic country wine with dark red fruit and cedar notes. Drink: 2011-2014.  209353  13%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Meloni Terreforru Cannonau Di Sardegna Cannonau 2007, D.O.C., Sardinia, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Meloni Vini has established a reputation as one of the leading quality producers on the island of Sardinia. Cannonau is the Sardinian word for Grenache (the Southern Rhône mainstay grape). Expect notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, wood-spice and light smoke. This organic wine has only 15 mg/l of free sulphur. My note: Savoury, tart and rustic with notes of black cherry and cedar. Medium- to full-bodied. Great wine to bring to a potluck gathering of environmentalists. Drink: 2011-2014.  101378  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2009, Marlborough, New Zealand: Generous oak with fleshy ripe cherries. Smooth and full-bodied. For those who love power pinots. I can see the starry night as I take another sip. Drink: 2011-2014.  734681  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2009, Marlborough, New Zealand: Generous oak with fleshy ripe cherries. Smooth and full-bodied. For those who love power pinots. I can see the starry night as I take another sip. Drink: 2011-2014.  203752  14.50%  XD  375 mL  $12.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Cantina Del Pino Barbaresco 2006, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Fleshy-ripe cherry and mixed spices waft from the glass of this stunning wine. Mouth-watering and delicious with superb balance and craftsmanship. Full-bodied and smooth. This one will last in the cellar for a while but I would find it hard to resist. Drink: 2011-2020.  922880  14%  XD  750 mL  $38.95  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Terre Di Rubinoro Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano Vecchia Cantina Di Montelpulciano Sangiovese 2006, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Earthy and mature with leather and cigar box. A fantastic price for such an evolved wine. Smooth and full-bodied. Almost makes me want to read a long novel, but I think I’d rather have another glass and then a nap. Drink: 2011-2016.  206862  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $17.95  Score: 91/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Vaeni Naoussa Xinomavro Damaskinos 2004, Greece: Old leather and violets: this wine surprised me, especially for the price. This is all earth and spice with supporting fruit but the fruit is secondary. It tastes very mature in the best sense. Can’t beat this price. Drink: 2011-2014.  60731  13%  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Concha Y Toro Maycas De Limari Reserva Syrah 2009, Limarí Valley, Chile: Rich cedar-black savoury goodness with anise and blackberry. Smooth and full-bodied. Extremely satisfying. Perfect for book clubs when you’re tackling a dark story. Drink: 2010-2015.  209916  14%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review


La Cova Dels Vins Ombra Garnacha Carinena Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, D.O.C., Montsant, Spain: This wine is a blend of one-third each of garnacha, carinena and cabernet sauvignon grapes. It’s savoury and dark with some cedar notes. Rustic and full-bodied. Very different from your typical fruit-forward wines. Try it if you want something different Drink: 2011-2014.  132589  14%  XD  750 mL  $16.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Château Clement Saint Jean Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, A.C., Médoc, Bordeaux, France: A terrific Bordeaux for the money! Dark black fruit, smoke and a strong tannic grip so decant for 1-2 hours. Great structure and balance. Should keep for another 3 years at least. Drink: 2011-2014.  199208  12.50%  D  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Santa Carolina Reserva De Familia Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Maipo Valley, Chile: A classic Chilean cabernet: herbal, cedar and cassis aromas. Full-bodied and voluptuously smooth. Great length and depth. Drink: 2011-2015.  684597  13%  XD  750 mL  $15.00  Score: 91/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review


Jean-Pierre Teissèdre Gamay 2009, A.C., Chiroubles, Beaujolais, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Chiroubles is one of the nine Beaujolais Crus that represent the top growing areas within the Beaujolais-Villages region. Jean-Pierre Teissèdre delivers a deliciously fruity and well structured wine, with great berry, spice and a refreshing acidity. Savour this medium-bodied Chiroubles. My note: Very light with a short finish but gloriously happy cherries jubilee dance across your palate. Perfect for dry turkey. A wine to quaff at a picnic and with much laughter. Simple and tasty. Drink: 2011-2013.  183475  13%  D  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


D'arenberg The Footbolt Shiraz 2007, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Meaty core that touches deep pleasure centres. Dark berries and fleshy blackcurrants dive down into great depths of flavour. Perfect for the power Australian crowd… many of them are my friends. Drink: 2011-2018.  984021  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Colomé Amalaya Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Calchaquí Valley, Salta, Argentina: Yum! Savoury and juicy with fleshy ripe purple plums and blueberries. Full-bodied and smooth. A beautiful thing with pizza. Drink: 2011-2015.  223446  14.50%  XD  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Domaine De Poujo Tannat 2007, A.C., Madiran, Southwest, France: Big fleshy blackberries and black raspberries on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, smooth, rich and absolutely terrific quality for the price. Perfect for movie night (especially film noir). Made from the tannat grape. Tannic but it works. Drink: 2011-2014.  719674  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


La Crema Pinot Noir 2008, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: Some wines you adopt as your own perhaps because you recall where you were (and who you were with) when you first tried them and they knocked your socks off. This is such a wine for me: I really have a soft spot for it. It’s supple, satin with gorgeous ripe cherries and berries. Extraordinary length: almost as long as my memory of that first bottle seven years ago. Drink: 2011-2015.  719435  13.90%  XD  750 mL  $29.95  Score: 93/100. March 5, 2011 Favourite Red Wine. Full Review


Perrin & Fils Les Sinards Syrah 2007, A.C., Rhône, France: Come hither nose, with a warm embrace once you do hither over to the glass. Full-bodied, smooth and savoury with dark red fruit and a long finish. Superbly crafted, as are most wines from this producer who cares about every step. Terrific half bottles are hard to come by so stock for those nights when you’re on your own or when you and what’s his name just want a glass and a bit each. This is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection so you’re likely to find it in stock Drink: 2011-2020.  5975  14.50%  XD  375 mL  $19.95  Score: 93/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Casa Montes Alzamora Syrah 2006, Tulum Valley, San Juan, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: San Juan is home to some simply outstanding Syrah, and the Alzamora is no exception. Expect a full-bodied, dry, superbly structured wine with impressively concentrated blackberry, dark cherries, smoked meat, clove and peppery spice notes with a delicate and lifting touch of violet. Will also evolve nicely with 2-3 years in cellar. My note: Pleasantly bitter with rich blackberry fruit. Smooth and dark. Dark spices on the finish. Drink: 2011-2015.  220673  14%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Domaine De La Colline Saint-Jean Vieilles Vignes, Alazard Père Et Fils Grenache Syrah 2007, A.C., Vacqueyras, Rhône, France: Vibrant, fleshy black cherries on the nose followed by a deeper, richer black cherry liqueur in the mouth. Rich, full-bodied and glorious. This wine comes from a 37-acre vineyard of 80-year-old Grenache and Syrah vines. It’s aged in cement tanks to preserve fruit freshness. Seduction in a glass. Drink: 2011-2020.  155499  13%  XD  750 mL  $22.95  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Hazyblur Shiraz 2006, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Absolutely superb! Combines the best of Australian power and fruit concentration with fantastic balance, length and craftsmanship. This is one of the finest Australian wines I’ve tasted, and yet it’s by no means the most expensive. Open your world of pleasure and try it. This wine is made form vines that are 40+ years old and it was matured in 50% new American oak. Drink: 2011-2024.  76141  15%  D  750 mL  $34.95  Score: 94/100. March 5, 2011 Favourite Red Wine. Full Review


Ridge Santa Cruz Mountains Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2006, Santa Cruz Mountains, California, United States: This wine is a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot. Blackberry-menthol nose with blackberry liqueur on the palate. Rich, deep, and ponderous. Smooth and rich and full-bodied. Drink: 2011-2017.  89284  13.70%  XD  750 mL  $44.95  Score: 92/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Mas Des Bressades Cuvée Tradition Cyril Mares, Prop.-Récolt. Syrah Grenache 2009, A.C., Costières De Nîmes, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A blend of 55% Syrah and 45% Grenache, this wine is filled with aromas of tar, tea, licorice, candy and chocolate. The palate confirms the promised complexity of the nose. Dry, with beautifully integrated tannins and a fine acidity, this has great structure and balance. A tremendous value from an up-and-coming region. My note: Savoury and dark with big black fruit, smoke and meaty notes. A heart of darkness runs through this rich, deep, full-bodied wine. This is an incredible price. Buy by the caseload for parties and your own pleasure. Drink: 2011-2015.  143099  13.50%  XD  750 mL  $14.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review


Nyarai Cellars Veritas Cabernet Franc Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: This ripe and expressive red exhibits plenty of cassis, plum, bramble, pipe tobacco and cocoa. Dry, medium bodied, and expertly crafted, with plenty of ageing potential (3-5 years) – but it’s drinking beautifully now. A phenomenal example of the great 2007 Ontario vintage. My note: This wine is a blend of 33% Cabernet Franc, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and 13% Syrah. It leads with a mocha-cocoa-espresso nose. On the palate, there’s dark fruit and a very smooth texture. Medium- to full-bodied weight. Nicely put together with good balance. Drink: 2011-2015.  222794  13.90%  XD  750 mL  $24.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Château Pontet Bel Air Cabernet Blend 2009, A.C., Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2010 Concours Général Agricole in Paris. Features aromas of crushed raspberry and spring flowers. Dry, fresh and fruity, very quaffable crowd-pleaser for current enjoyment or hold it up to two years. My note: A rustic, robust, cedary red with dark red berry aromas. Satisfying, but not for analysis. Just enjoy! Drink: 2011-2014.  205864  12.50%  XD  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Strewn Terroir Merlot 2006, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Strewn’s Terroir line of wines are made from only the highest-quality grapes, and only produced in select outstanding years. This is an intense and flavourful Merlot with notes of blackberry, dark cherry, and earth, with an herbal undertone that adds a sense of depth and complexity to the nose and palate. This nuanced Merlot will pair easily. My note: Tangy blueberries and mouth-watering purple plums. I admire the effort here as it’s tough to ripen a merlot in a cool climate. Juicy and tasty. Drink: 2011-2014.  225763  12.70%  XD  750 mL  $19.95  Score: 87/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Domaine Des Mascarons Terres D'avignon Syrah 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: It is always fun, not to mention very satisfying, to find a wine that punches well above its price point. So stand back – this wine is throwing haymakers. It comes out swinging with impressive notes of blackberry, dark cherry, tobacco, sweet plum, cassis and spice on the nose. The medium-bodied palate keeps on scoring with rapid-fire combinations of dark fruit, herbal, chocolate and pepper tones. Excellent balance and structure, leading to a long finish. My note: Love it! Reminds me of tart black raspberries growing wild in the heart of a cedary forest. A pleasant bitterness that keeps you coming back to the glass rather than satiating after a glass… or three. Full-bodied and smooth with luxurious depths of pleasure. Drink: 2011-2015.  142174  15%  XD  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Sparkling Wine

Bera Brachetto 2009, D.O.C., Piedmont, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This is a light-bodied and highly aromatic frizzante, with lovely notes of fresh spring flowers and distinctive strawberry notes. Moderately sweet, this delicious and refreshing sipper is perfect for when sharing a quiet evening with that special someone. My note: And now for something completely different! Lovely ripe-sweet raspberry and strawberry notes. Try this bubbly with chocolate: it’ll rock your world. Drink: 2011-2014.  189837  6%  MS  750 mL  $18.95  Score: 89/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review


Dessert Wine

Cálem Fine White Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Vintages Wine Panel: Aromas of jasmine, orange peel, walnuts, sweet spice and dried fruit. Medium in sweetness and well structured, with a crisp acidity that keeps all of the elements in balance. Perfect as an aperitif. My note: I learned to like white port this year. It’s not that sweet, but try it with ice and a twist of lime instead of gin and tonic. Woot! Drink: 2011-2018.  224568  20%  M  750 mL  $13.95  Score: 88/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review


Enrico Serafino Moscato D'asti 2010, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Moscato d’Asti is a lovely way to end a meal. Light in alcohol (generally no more than 5.5% alc./vol.), gently frizzante and pleasingly sweet. Chill it down and enjoy this spring flower- table grape- and apricot-scented wine as dessert itself. My note: Love it! Ah my goodness this great. Sweet, yes, but with bubbly it balances beautifully. What a terrific after-dinner treat. Drink: 2011-2014.  134833  5.50%  MS  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 90/100. March 5, 2011 Best Value Dessert Wine. Full Review