![\"March](\"\/images\/blog\/2011\/168.jpg\")
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Number of Wines Recommended: 67<\/p>\n
Review date: March 19, 2011<\/p>\n
There are some amazing reds from Spain and Portugal in this release, plus Californian cult wines and more bargains to stock for parties …<\/p>\n
White Wine<\/p>\n
2009 Colmello Di Grotta Pinot Grigio, D.O.C., Isonzo Del Friuli, Italy: VC: Pinot Grigio from the tiny region of Friuli has rightly become renowned, and Colmello di Grotta\u2019s version features many of this variety\u2019s great strengths. Light straw in colour, this is crisp and light with melon and apple tones. Traces of candied fruit, accented by mushroom and nut, add complexity and depth. There is a seam of refreshing acidity here, and a nice medium-long finish. This is a wine to enjoy as you salute the approaching spring. My note: A darker, robust version of pinot Grigio with notes peach and honeysuckle. Pair with: poached sole. Drink: 2011-2014.\u00a0 206797\u00a0 13%\u00a0 XD\u00a0 750 mL\u00a0 $14.95\u00a0 Score: 87\/100.\u00a0 Best Value White Wine.<\/p>\n
2009 Hamilton Russell Chardonnay Hemel-En-Aarde Valley, D.O., Walker Bay, South Africa: Classic chardonnay with lovely, generous layers of flavour. Toasty oak and butter wrap around a core of mouth-watering green apple and lime. Almond-infused finish. Lovely! Drink: 2011-2016.\u00a0 931006\u00a0 13%\u00a0 XD\u00a0 750 mL\u00a0 $29.95\u00a0 Score: 93\/100. Favourite White Wine.<\/p>\n
Red Wine<\/p>\n
2009 Catena Zapata Cabernet Sauvignon Alamos, Mendoza, Argentina: Lovely, savoury blend of blackberry preserves, dark spices, dried herbs and smoke. Masterfully made, especially at this price point. Stock up for summer barbecues while you can. Drink: 2011-2016.\u00a0 467944\u00a0 14%\u00a0 XD\u00a0 750 mL\u00a0 $13.95\u00a0 Score: 89\/100. Best Value Red Wine.<\/p>\n
2006 Mission Hill Syrah Merlot Quatrain, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Big black fruit with mocha and dark chocolate notes. Savoury and meaty with years of life ahead of it. This wine is a blend of 41% Syrah, 32% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was fermented and matured in French oak for 15 months. One of Canada\u2019s finest robust reds. Drink: 2011-2018.\u00a0 218636\u00a0 13%\u00a0 XD\u00a0 750 mL\u00a0 $44.95\u00a0 Score: 94\/100. Favourite Red Wine.<\/p>\n
Sparkling Wine<\/p>\n
Pierre Sparr Pinot Blanc Pinot Gris Dynastie Brut Cr\u00e9mant D’alsace, A.C., Alsace, France: VC: Pierre Sparr uses Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the blend for this elegant wine. Expect classic bread dough, apple, pear and melon aromas and flavours on this fizz. It is a fine aperitif at your late-winter dinner party. My note: terrific, toasty and robust with wow flavours that taste twice the price. Terrific bread and green apple notes. Pair with: fish, seafood courses. Drink: 2011-2015.\u00a0 952796\u00a0 12%\u00a0 XD\u00a0 750 mL\u00a0 $17.95\u00a0 Score: 89\/100. Best Value Sparkling Wine.<\/p>\n
Dessert Wine<\/p>\n
2004 Quinta Da Romaneira Port Unfiltered Late Bottled Vintage Btld. 2010, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: VC: Unlike regular LBVs, unfiltered versions, such as this, can age \u2013 this beauty is just beginning to hit its stride \u2013 and should be decanted before enjoyment. My note: A lovely after-dinner sipper for a great price. All you need is a few ounces so a little goes a long way and it\u2019ll keep for several weeks. Treat yourself. Drink: 2011-2018.\u00a0 196758\u00a0 19.5%\u00a0 S\u00a0 750 mL\u00a0 $19.95\u00a0 Score: 88\/100. Favourite Dessert Wine.<\/p>\n
Rose<\/p>\n
2009 Prieur\u00e9 De Montezargues Grenache Cinsault, A.C., Tavel, Rh\u00f4ne, France: I want it! I love these bone-dry deep and rich roses from Tavel. Dark raspberries and savoury dried herbs. There\u2019s absolutely nothing like them and they\u2019ll pair with just about any dish. This wine is a blend of 55% Grenache, 30% Cinsault and the rest Clairette grapes. Drink: 2011-2013.\u00a0 216390\u00a0 13%\u00a0 XD\u00a0 750 mL\u00a0 $19.95\u00a0 Score: 92\/100. Favourite Rose.<\/p>\n
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Here is the complete shopping list for all 67 wines recommended with wine names, tasting notes, scores, food matches & recipes: March 19 Wine Reviews<\/a>.<\/p>\n