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Wine Picks May 13, 2010

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Note: This batch of wine reviews is not part of the bi-weekly Vintages Releases. Instead, it's a collection of wines outside the Vintages section in store (general list) or wines sent to me directly from wineries that may not yet be available in liquor stores. Click on the Winery or Wine Agency link to get more info.

Dessert Wine

Nederburg Winemaster's Reserve Noble Late Harvest Chenin Blanc 2009, South Africa: Gorgeous depth and length and richness with lovely apricot preserves aromas and honey. No oak on this wine. The grapes were affected by botrytis: a very good thing indeed! 11% S 750 mL $12.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Bon Cap Wine Cellar The Ruins Pinotage 2009, Robertson, South Africa: A supple, smoky, dark-fruited red with ripe black cherry, coffee and cigar box aromas. Medium- to full-bodied. 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bon Cap Wine Cellar The Ruins Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Robertson, South Africa: A smooth, full-bodied red with lovely aromas of black plums, cinnamon, dark berries and cassis. Terrific balance and complexity. The wines was made from organically grown grapes. 14.8% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bon Cap Wine Cellar Perfect Blend Cabernet Sauvignon Pinotage Shiraz 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Juicy and mouth-watering with a full-bodied weight. Aromas of black raspberries, coffee and smoke. Lovely! 14.8% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bon Cap Wine Cellar Cape Blend Cabernet Sauvignon Pinotage Petit Verdot 2006, Robertson, South Africa: A juicy, full-bodied, supple red with notes of blackberry, fresh earth and vanilla spice. A savoury middle note is terrific. 13% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nederburg Manor House Shiraz 2007, South Africa: Plummy, rich and dark with full-bodied weight and a supple texture. Toasty oak finish. 14.1% XD 750 mL $18.00 Score: 86/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nederburg Ingenuity Red Blend 2007, South Africa: This wine spent 24 months in oak 14.6% XD 750 mL $18.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boschendal Pavilion Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Lovely ripe fleshy dark berries and other fruits on the nose. Full-bodied weight with a lush texture, supple, fresh, not tannic. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boschendal 1685 Shiraz 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Supple, full-bodied with dark plums and blackberries and a little pepper. This wine spent 12 months in the barrel with 20% new oak. 14% XD 750 mL $19.00 Score: 89/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boschendal Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Shiraz 2005, Stellenbosch, South Africa: An elegant, classically made Cabernet blend with lovely aromas of cassis and blackberry. This wine spent 20 months in oak barrels which gives it a smoky, rich texture. Drink: 2010 - 2018 89656 14.5% D 750 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boschendal Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This dark, brooding wine has a good tannic grip on the palate so it needs some time in your cellar to soften. If you can't wait, then decant it for at least two hours before drinking. Gorgeous aromas of fleshy blackberries and some tar on the finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 89656 14.5% D 750 mL $30.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cathedral Cellar Pinotage 2008, Western Cape, South Africa: If you don't know Pinotage as a grape very well, start with this wine. It's South Africa's flagship grape the way California has Zinfandel. Savoury notes of bacon, fleshy black cherry and vanilla smoke. It’s got a velvet texture with a dry medium-full-bodied weight and flavours flavours of cocoa, coffee, and blackberry jam with a dark spiced finish. Smoky oak weaves it way through the wine. Lovely! Pair with: grilled lamb steaks. 99267 13.9% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

KWV Cathedral Cellar Shiraz 2008, Western Cape, South Africa: Old World balance of the southern Rhône with New World power and fruit. Bursting with ripe blackberry, black raspberry, cedar, leather and pepper. I love this producer! Savoury, mouth-watering juicy black fruit with layers of succulent berries and plums. Pair with: beef stews, pastas, beef, lamb. 561142 14.3% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Roodeberg Red Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot 2008, South Africa: Ripe plums and berries; very supple for easy and early drinking. Judicious use of oak aging. This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

KWV The Mentors Petit Verdot 2008, South Africa: Good tannic grip so it needs aging. Mouth-watering black fruit, smoky notes and not too much oak. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

KWV The Mentors Orchestra Cabernet Blend 2007, South Africa: Well-structured red with beautiful balance and length. Classic aromas of cassis and blackcurrant. Very dry on the finish. Drink: 2010 - 2015 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Meerlust Rubicon Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A layered wine with Old World elegance and New World fruit. This red possesses aromas of black fruit and smoke. A towering structure holds peppered blackberry, cassis, cedar box and herbal notes. Classic styling. Incredible length and depth and aging potential. Truly one of South Africa's icon wines. Drink: 2010 - 2010 64329 14% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 95/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Meerlust Pinot Noir 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Highly perfumed with fleshy cherries and baking spices on the nose such as cinnamon and clove. Rose petals and wild strawberry mingle in the glass. Terrific zingy, mouth-watering acidity. About 70% of the wine was aged in new French oak for 11 months. Stunningly long finish. Drink: 2010 - 2014 663401 13.5% D 750 mL $29.00 Score: 91/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Meerlust Merlot 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Classic Bordeaux-like structure with voluptuously ripe plums and berries and a hint of a herbal note on the mid-palate. Terrific acidity. Decant for 1-2 hours. A cedary clean finish. Drink: 2010 - 2014 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Creamy texture with toasty oak and buttery notes on the nose. Loaded with green apple and lime aromas. This wine was whole bunch pressed and fermented and aged in the barrel for 15 months, 80% new oak. Terrific structure and length. Drink: 2010 - 2016 107375 13% XD 750 mL $42.00 Score: 91/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rustenberg John X Merriman Cabernet Blend 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Enticing cigar box and black plum on the nose lead to cassis and blackberry on a fleshy palate with full-bodied weight and polished tannins. Layered and nuanced with terrific aging potential. Drink: 2010 - 2020 14% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 91/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rustenberg Syrah 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Mocha-rich, blackberry-smoke nose with mouth-watering flavours of clove, bacon and violets on the palate. Wow! This is a meaty, savoury wine but doesn't come off as heavy: terrific balance. Deep concentration of flavour with a lovely long finish. Make it a special occasion by opening this bottle tonight. This wine will be part of the Vintages October 2010 release. Drink: 2010 - 2016 14.5% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

De Toren Private Cellar Fusion V Cabernet Blend 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Cabernet sauvignon leads in this exquisite blend (55%) with classic Bordeaux styling. A satisfyingly chewy depth of flavour reveals blackberry, nougat, licorice and cigar box. This wine has it all in a sensory fusion: elegance, power, length and concentration. The wine was aged for 12 months in 50% new oak and 50% second fill, mostly French in a climatized barrel room at 16 degrees Celsius and 80% humidity. Polished tannins with a massive structure will give this red many years in the cellar. Drink: 2010 - 2010 14.5% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

De Toren Private Cellar Fusion V Cabernet Blend 2005, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Gorgeous Bordeaux-like structure and maturity. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and the traditional Bordeaux grapes. Tertiary aromas emerge such as violets, dried tobacco, herbs, leather and cigar box. Superb! Drink: 2010 - 2018 14.5% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

De Toren Private Cellar Fusion Z Merlot Cabernet 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Wow! Richly layered with Bordeaux structure and balance. The power and vitality of South African fruit. Merlot is 47% of the blend, with Cabernet France 27% and Cabernet Sauvignon 10%. Lushly ripe blackberries and black raspberries tumble across your mouth wrapped in a smoky finish. A wine to remember. Drink: 2010 - 2016 14.5% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 93/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creation Wines Pinot Noir 2009, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Invigorating and abundantly fleshy ripe cherries with a silky smooth texture and excellent depth of flavour. Mixed berries and vanilla smoke on the finish. Yum! Drink: 2010 - 2016 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creation Wines Syrah Grenache 2008, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Full-bodied weight with a smooth, generous texture. Loaded with black plums, tapenade, pepper and smoke. Terrific length on the finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 89/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creation Wines Cabernet Blend 2008, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Terrific balance, structure and depth. Makes a halo of flavour across your palate of sumptuous blackberries, blackcurrants and peppered raspberries. A lovely dark smoky finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sumaridge Pinot Noir 2008, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Very fleshy berries and cherries with a supple satin texture. Not a lot of oak, but it adds a nice back note of spice. A long finish. Drink: 2010 - 2014 13.4% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sumaridge Epitome Shiraz Pinotage Merlot 2007, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Fleshy fruit up front followed by spices and smoke on the finish with a lovely fullness on the middle palate. Drink: 2010 - 2016 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Man Vintners Reserve Shiraz 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Plush and luscious with rich ripe notes of black plums. Not jammy, lots of freshness on the finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stark-Condé Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This unfiltered and unfined wine has lots of stuffing and flavour! It was aged for 22 months in French oak. IN addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, there's 6% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc. Loaded with cassis and blackcurrant flavour feathery tannins. Drink: 2010 - 2014 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Delheim Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Elegant and balanced with lots of delicious blackberry and cassis aromas. Full-bodied yet supple. Superb effort! Drink: 2010 - 2016 35394 14% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Oceans Shiraz 2009, Durbanville Hills, South Africa: Juicy purple plums, blueberries and blackberries with a supple, smooth texture. Full-bodied but not too heavy or oaky. Shiraz food pairings: roast pork, stew, meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2010 - 2012 699249 13.5% XD 750 mL $10.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A blend of 45% Pinotage, 17% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Cabernet Franc. Rounded fruit and texture with plush dark cherries, plums and a spicy finish. Full-bodied and lovely. Drink: 2010 - 2020 14% XD 750 mL $60.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Made from grapes on trellised old vines. A classic style with blackberry, cassis and blackcurrant. Full-bodied, complex, deep and long. Some cigar box and violets on the finish. Drink: 2010 - 2018 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Winery Of Good Hope Pinot Noir 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Black cherries and a silky texture. Grapes come from the Elgin region, which is cool and high altitude with cloud cover. The vines experience true dormancy in the winter and therefore have deeper root systems and pick up more nuances. Complex and lovely. Drink: 2010 - 2014 146415 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 89/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spier Wines Private Collection Pinotage 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine has spectacular dark fruit with great concentration. It was aged 18 months in French oak which gives it a toasty richness and smoky finish. Lovely! Drink: 2010 - 2014 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 93/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spier Wines Private Collection Shiraz 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Spicy and racy with exciting aromas of rich dark plums and a cinnamon finish. Full-bodied and supple. Exotic and bewitching. A modern European style with more savoury than sweet fruit. Drink: 2010 - 2015 15% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Amani Vineyards Kamili Chardonnay Viognier 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Lovely floral aromas infused with green apples, apricot and melon. Terrific acidity. There’s a Condrieu aspect to it with ginger and white pepper. Mouth-watering acidity folds all the flavours together and magnifies them. It would be perfect with smoke-cured ostrich carpaccio. Drink: 2010 - 2015 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Amani Vineyards Pinotage 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine has a luxurious palate weight, loaded with peppered raspberries, black cherry, licorice and mocha spice. A smoky, velvet plum heart slowly emerges. Drink: 2010 - 2018 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 94/100. May 2010. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Amani Vineyards Cabernet Franc Merlot 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine is a blend of cabernet franc and merlot that’s a savoury mix of blueberries, coffee and graphite. The nose is on the move, changing now from blackberries to darker, tarry notes. Cabernet franc gives tannin weight and structure; merlot imparts plushness and fleshiness to the wine. 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 93/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Amani Vineyards Jordan Meyers Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (40%) and Shiraz (60%) has a luxurious, concentrated richness with dark plums, blackberries and vanilla rootbeer (sarsaparilla) on the finish. Full-bodied and supple. Superb! Drink: 2010 - 2016 15% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 91/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2009, Franschhoek, South Africa: Nice oak integration in this full-bodied, dark-fruited red. Lush middle palate with a spicy long finish. This wine has Northern Rhone leanings. Drink: 2010 - 2014 595280 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Chocolate Block Boekenhoutskloof Syrah Grenache Cabernet Sauvignon Cinsault Viognier 2008, Franschhoek, South Africa: Rich and full-bodied with dark chocolate and black plums on the nose. Incredible depth and power. This wine is a blend of Syrah (69%), Grenache (12%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%) Cinsault (7%) and Viognier (2%). Drink: 2010 - 2017 656512 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boekenhoutskloof Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Franschhoek, South Africa: This wine spent 27 months in new oak. It offers enticing aromas of cedar, cassis, blackcurrant and spices. Full-bodied and concentrated. Terrific! Drink: 2010 - 2018 52084 14.2% XD 750 mL $66.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bellingham Shiraz Viognier 2007, Franschhoek, South Africa: This wine spent 12 months in oak,; it's mostly Shiraz with just a splash of Viognier to lift the mid-palate. It offers blackberry, violet, purple liqueur aromas with a rich, concentrated flavour core. Great party wine. Drink: 2010 - 2012 554360 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spice Route Wine Company Chakalaka, Fairview Syrah Blend 2008, Swartland, South Africa: A gorgeous blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Tannat, Petit Sirah, Souzau, and Carignan. Terrific dark fleshy fruit with a mouth-watering ripeness roll across the palate. There's power, concentration and balance here with a lingering long finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 160481 14.5% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 91/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ken Forrester Shiraz Grenache 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This fantastic red blend is full-bodied, supple and lip-smacking delicious! It has juicy dark plums with a terrific peppery finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 14% XD 750 mL $19.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kanu Keystone Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Merlot 2005, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Dark fruit with smoky concentration. Full-bodied and supple. Very satisfying. Drink: 2010 - 2015 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Le Bonheur Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine was barrel aged for 19 months. It's plush, supple with aromas of dark plums and dark berries. Merlot is 70% of the blend. Lovely! Drink: 2010 - 2016 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kleinood Syrah Viognier Mourvèdre 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Classic styling and lovely balance in this full-bodied red with aromas of dark berries and other fruit. Terrific long finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rust En Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Classic Cabernet styling with dark berry and cassis aromas. Stunning depth, length and power. This is a wine that will keep well in the cellar. Drink: 2010 - 2020 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 93/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Robertson Winery Shiraz 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Luscious blackberries and plums with a full-bodied, smooth texture. Terrific party wine! Drink: 2010 - 2012 610949 13.4% XD 750 mL $12.00 Score: 86/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Viljoensdrift Serenity Cabernet Blend 2005, Robertson, South Africa: A classic Bordeaux blend of grapes with punched up fruit aromas. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2010 - 2014 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir 2009, Hemel-En-Aarde, Hermanus, South Africa: Decadently rich, ripe cherries with velvet wrap-around tannins. A sumptuous wine to dive into head first. Drink: 2010 - 2018 13.85% XD 750 mL $44.00 Score: 95/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Newton Johnson Syrah 2007, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: A luxurious wine of liquid black plums that roll down a velvet carpet of violets. Full-bodied, concentrated and supple with a long finish. Drink: 2010 - 2018 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 93/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fish Hoek Shiraz 2009, South Africa, South Africa: A juicy, full-bodied, supple red with fleshy ripe plums and berries. Perfect for parties and casual get-togethers. Drink: 2010 - 2013 129734 14% XD 750 mL $10.00 Score: 86/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Flagstone Shiraz 2008, Coastal Region, South Africa: Smoky dark plums with fleshy blackberries in this full-bodied wonder. Some earthy notes and black pepper on the finish. Terrific! Drink: 2010 - 2016 127654 14% XD 750 mL $36.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bouchard Finlayson Pinot Noir 2008, Hemel-En-Aarde, Hermanus, South Africa: Silky and seductive with fleshy ripe cherries, violets, fresh earth. Power and elegance meet in this wine with great length. Drink: 2010 - 2016 983031 14% D 750 mL $63.00 Score: 94/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sparkling Wine

Bon Cap Wine Cellar The Ruins Colombard 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Crisp and toasty with lively notes of green apples and grapefruit. This wine was made from organically grown grapes. 12.5% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 85/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bon Cap Wine Cellar Classique Brut Sparkling Wine 2006, Robertson, South Africa: Terrific freshness in this sparkling wine that's a blend of 72% Chardonnay and 28% Pinot Noir. Lovely notes of green apples and toast. Made from organically grown grapes. 11.7% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boschendal Grand Cuvee Brut Sparkling Wine 2006, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes go into this lovely bubbly made from the method cap classique (Champagne method). Toasty, crisp, refreshing with lovely green apple notes and a biscuity finish. 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Sumaridge Maritimus Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Semillon 2009, Upper Hemel-En-Aarde Valley, Walker Bay, South Africa: Nicely balanced with fresh green apples and an ocean briny marine-depth. Nice line of acidity is taken up with the green apple flavours. Terrific! 13.7% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bon Cap Wine Cellar The Ruins Chardonnay Verdelho Viognier 2008, Robertson, South Africa: Toasty, smoky green apple aromas on the nose. Full-bodied with a generous texture. Made from organically grown grapes. 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bon Cap Wine Cellar Viognier 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Lovely, refreshing white that's not too floral. Good balance with honey blossom, dried peach and apricot notes. Crisp citrus finish. 14.7% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nederburg Manor House Sauvignon Blanc 2009, South Africa: Grassy good with good acidity and herbal notes on the palate. Some green pepper on the finish. 13.4% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 86/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nederburg Ingenuity White Blend 2008, South Africa: A blend of eight grapes but primarily Sauvignon Blanc. Good weight and acidity with herbal and grapefruit notes. 13.1% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nederburg Riesling 2009, South Africa: Pretty floral and peach aromas, very aromatic and unwooded. Mouth-watering acidity makes a great food companion. 13% XD 750 mL $10.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boschendal 1685 Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Herbal zesty notes with lime and grapefruit. Full-bodied and rich yet still refreshing. This wines comes from a warm vintage. 13% XD 750 mL $16.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boschendal 1685 Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A fresh herbal character from a cooler vintage than 2008. Lots of lime, lemon and chives here. Terrific! 13% XD 750 mL $16.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

KWV Chardonnay 2009, Western Cape, South Africa: Fantastic Chardonnay: big, oaky and buttery yes, but not too heavy. Generous and rich with flavour yet balanced. I love the wines from this producer. Ripe peaches and pears with layers of lovely rich flavours. Very satisfying. A Grand Ole Opré wine. Pair with: lobster, king crab in butter, Asian dishes with black bean sauces, pork, seafood or recipes that have a cream base. 328559 14.7% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 89/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

KWV The Mentors Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2009, South Africa: Grassy good with mouth-watering aromas of gooseberry and limes. Semillon adds depth and complexity to the blend as well as richness. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Roodeberg White 2009, South Africa: This lovely blend of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and a little Viognier has a gorgeous floral nose, highly aromatic. Good balance with a medium-bodied weight. Terrific aperitif or pair it with Asian dishes and mild to medium curries. 14% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

KWV The Mentors Viognier 2009, South Africa: Full-bodied with pretty floral aromas, white pepper, rose petal and white peach. Rich and voluptuous. 14% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Meerlust Chardonnay 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Big, buttery and bold with gorgeous quince and citrus notes. Very alluring. Terrific acidity brings balance. Rich and full-bodied on the palate. A hazelnut-infused finish. Drink: 2010 - 2014 663419 13% D 750 mL $24.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rustenberg Chardonnay 2008, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A big, buttery rich Chardonnay with terrific balancing acidity. Aromas of green apples, lanolin, orange zest and almonds. About 35% of this wine was aged in new oak barrels for 12 months. Drink: 2010 - 2014 14% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rustenberg Roussanne 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Pretty floral wine with fragrant notes of peach and apricot. The palate is complex and layered with a voluptuous full-bodied richness. A lovely pineapple-infused finish. Drink: 2010 - 2015 14.5% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 91/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creation Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Very refreshing with lovely lime-green melon aromas. Some tropical fruit and elderflower with mouth-watering crispness. Drink: 2010 - 2012 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creation Wines Viognier 2009, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Terrific balance between the vibrant green apple notes and the warm, toasty oak. Richly fruity with great acidity. Finishes clean. Drink: 2010 - 2013 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Man Vintners Chenin Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Lovely floral, guava, honeysuckle and pineapple on the nose. The vines grow in shale soils which gives them a lanolin richness. Drink: 2010 - 2013 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Obikwa Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Durbanville Hills, South Africa: Vintages Wine Panel: Pale straw colour; lightly tropical aromas of green pineapple, guava and pear fruit with pleasant herbal notes; light- to medium-bodied with crisp, green apple flavours. My note: A grassy-good Sauvignon Blanc with wake-up aromas of gooseberry, asparagus, chives, limes and green apples. Zippy and refreshing. Perfect as an aperitif. This wine is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Food matches: light poultry dishes, seafood, salads. 527465 12.5% XD 750 mL $9.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Reyneke Wines Reserve White Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine spent 16 months in barrel and offers lovely floral, citrus and stone fruit aromas. Perfectly balanced with incredible depth and intensity and a long quince-infused finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 94/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Haut Espoir Viognier 2008, Franschhoek, South Africa: Lovely floral aromatics with a full-bodied, generous texture. Stunning! Drink: 2010 - 2014 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 89/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bellingham Bernard Series Chenin Blanc 2008, Franschhoek, South Africa: Lovely balance with incredibly rich and rewarding aromas of lemon zest, lanolin, green apples and peach blossom. About 20% of this wine was barrel aged. Drink: 2010 - 2014 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fairview Viognier 2010, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Fairview Wine Estate was the first in South Africa to plant Viognier about ten years ago. This lovely white was partially aged in oak barrels, which gives the wine added creaminess and texture along with aromas of passion fruit, white peach, Asian pear and smoke. It has a gorgeous full-bodied weight that ends in a satisfying long finish. Drink: 2010 - 2016 906487 13.5% D 750 mL $17.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vergelegen Estate Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine has terrific herbal aromas with nettle, gooseberry and a deep minerality. It's mouth-watering and refreshing. As it matures, the aromas will turn to more tropical notes with some elderflower. Drink: 2010 - 2013 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Springfield Estate Special Cuvee Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Robertson, South Africa: Lovely vibrant lime notes with some tropical aromas and great minerality and flintiness. The grapes for this refreshing wine were picked at night to preserve their mouth-watering acidity. Fantastic! Drink: 2010 - 2015 13% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ashbourne Sandstone Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay 2006, Hemel-En-Aarde, Hermanus, South Africa: This sauvignon blanc does particularly well in sandstone. It contributes a mineral-marine depth to this zesty wine. The chardonnay was fermented in clay amphora, which allows for a small oxidation similar to oak barrels, so it fattens its texture. Drink: 2010 - 2016 13% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 92/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay 2008, Hemel-En-Aarde, Hermanus, South Africa: The luxurious white pear and lime notes in the wine cut through the richness of cream dishes. The Chardonnay’s vanilla-smoke finish comes from the barrels made from oak imported from the French forests of Alliers, Vosges and Troncais which air dries on the estate to infuse them with crisp, icy winds of the Atlantic. Drink: 2010 - 2016 931006 13% XD 750 mL $38.00 Score: 93/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Newton Johnson Chardonnay 2008, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: A savoury tension holds this wine together. There's lovely green apple notes on a wine that's been sun-kissed with a touch of toasty oak. A hazelnut-infused finish. Superb effort! Drink: 2010 - 2015 13% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 91/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fish Hoek Sauvignon Blanc 2009, South Africa, South Africa: Terrific lime freshness with balanced acidity. Mouth-watering and refreshing; makes a great aperitif or companion to many dishes. Drink: 2010 - 2012 129726 13% XD 750 mL $10.00 Score: 87/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Flagstone Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Coastal Region, South Africa: Mineral richness and depth with refreshing notes of lime, lemongrass, and chives. Superb effort! Drink: 2010 - 2015 96537 13.7% D 750 mL $16.00 Score: 89/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bouchard Finlayson Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Walker Bay, Hermanus, South Africa: Crisp with notes of lime, chives and lemon peel. Mouth-watering and refreshing. Perfect as an aperitif or companion to many dishes. Drink: 2010 - 2014 701540 13% XD 750 mL $19.00 Score: 90/100. May 2010. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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