Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Vintages Release October 15, 2011

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Dessert Wine

Château Doisy-Daëne 2E Cru Meritage 2007, Bordeaux, France: The Platonic ideal of dessert wine: pure peach jam and pear preserves wrapped in honey-drizzled apricot. Oh yum. Drink: 2011 - 2020 97899 13% S 375 mL $32.00 Score: 93/100. October 2011. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Guiraud 1Er Cru Meritage 2007, A.C., Sauternes, Bordeaux, France: Superb: everything you want in a dessert wine and a dinner companion. Apricot richness and marmalade. Gorgeous depth and texture. Drink: 2011 - 2020 98582 13% S 375 mL $39.00 Score: 94/100. October 2011. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Doisy-Daëne 2E Cru Meritage 2013, Bordeaux, France Drink: 2011 - 2020 97899 13% S 375 mL $32.00 October 2011. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Montes Limited Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenère 2014, Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile Drink: 2011 - 2014 16071 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 October 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Josef Chromy Pepik Pinot Noir 2012, Tasmania, Australia Pinot Noir food pairings: salmon steaks, pork, spaghetti Bolognese. Drink: 2011 - 2015 162990 13% D 750 mL $21.95 October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Troplong Mondot Grand Cru Meritage 2011, A.C., Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France Drink: 2012 - 2018 102715 13% XD 750 mL $115.00 October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ridge Vineyards Geyserville Zinfandel 1997, Sonoma County, California, United States Zinfandel food pairings: roast beef dinner. Drink: 2011 - 2016 723072 14.5% XD 750 mL $96.00 October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe La Crau 1995, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France Drink: 2012 - 2018 951475 14.5% XD 750 mL $105.00 October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Montes Limited Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenère 2017, Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile Drink: 2011 - 2014 16071 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 October 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Navarro Correas Structura Ultra Limited Release Named Varietal Blends-Red 2006, I.P., Mendoza, Argentina: This wine is a blend of 52% Malbec, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot and aged for 18 months in new French oak. It has a lovely length and depth to it with blackberry and blackcurrant flavours. Well-structured. Drink: 2011 - 2015 64501 14% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Viniterra Select Malbec 2005, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: Look for aromas of cedar, spice box, leather and black cherry, and expect lots of personality on the palate from this beautifully sculpted Malbec. My note: Haunting purple plums (yes there is such a thing) with full-bodied, smooth, juiciness. An interesting dark spice finish. Drink: 2011 - 2014 177964 14% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Doña Paula Estate Malbec 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Love it! Gorgeously ripe black and purple plums with a lovely twist of dark spices and savoury juiciness. Beautifully structured and satisfying. Perfect for dinner parties and pizza night. Malbec food pairings: pizza. Drink: 2011 - 2014 394783 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. October 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luigi Bosca Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Maipü, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: Fine, balanced Cabernet that ably proves Argentina can do much more than just Malbec. Look for aromas of cassis, mocha, vanilla, blacberry and woodsmoke. A ripe wine with an intriguing rustic tone. Serve it with hearty autumnal stews. You could also cellar it for 3+ years. My note: Juicy, rich and pleasant with a good full-bodied grip. Blackberry and cassis, fleshy ripe and delicious. Decant 2 hours. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: stew. Drink: 2011 - 2014 128629 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

d'Arenberg The Galvo Garage Named Varietal Blends-Red 2007, Mclaren Vale,Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Meaty, savoury and juicy: oh yes! Full-bodied with big, black brooding dark fruit, smoke and layers that go on forever. This wine is a blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 21% Petit Verdot, and 6% Franc and was matured 12 months in French oak. Drink: 2011 - 2015 907584 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Elderton Ode To Lorraine Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot 2008, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Amazing restraint and elegance in this Aussie blend! Almost French in its character. Savoury, juicy cedar and wild blackberry notes. Incredible length. Drink: 2011 - 2015 976423 14.5% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Hands Wines Brave Faces Shiraz Grenache Mataro 2010, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: Deep ruby colour with aromas of cherry pie, wet earth, new leather and smoked meat. Dry, ripe, sweetly fruity, but with a fine brush of tannin for structure. Medium-full bodied with a long, robust finish. Drink now to 2015. My note: A dependably delicious red. Rich, full-bodied and smooth with juicy flavours of black plums and blackberries. What more could you want? Shiraz Grenache Mataro food pairings: lamb chops, veal medallions in a red wine sauce, pepper steak with sautéed mushrooms. Drink: 2011 - 2015 660035 14.8% D 750 mL $33.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Hands Wines Sophie's Garden Shiraz 2008, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Pure minty-blackberry goodness! A hallway of whistling flavor sweeps past your senses and keeps going down to your pleasure center. Full-bodied, smooth and ultra-delicious. Drink: 2011 - 2015 62380 16% XD 750 mL $46.00 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tait The Wild Ride Shiraz 2007, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Total juicy, lip-smacking wonder! Full-bodied and smooth with plush plums from here to Australia. Perfect for movie night and My Brilliant Career. Drink: 2011 - 2016 243584 15.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henry's Drive Shiraz 2007, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Smoky bacon savouriness with some mouth-watering juicy black fruit underneath. Elegant and balanced. Perfect for BBQ. Drink: 2011 - 2015 243527 14.9% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Josef Chromy Pepik Pinot Noir 2010, Tasmania, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: Invigorating and complex suggestions of sour cherry, dark fruit and black pepper on the nose. The palate is dry, medium bodied and draped in even stronger suggestions of fresh dark fruit, pepper and cherry. Medium tannins and a crisp acidity impart great support and structure. Good fruit focus right through to the end of the long finish. My note: Spectacularly juicy and mouth-watering red cherries dance across your mouth, waking up on your senses in a pure Aussie fruit sensation. This isn’t earthy or spicy: it’s sunny and tasty. Pinot Noir food pairings: salmon steaks, pork, spaghetti Bolognese. Drink: 2011 - 2015 162990 13% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Walter Zweigelt Glatzer Riedencuvée 2008, Niederösterreich, Austria: Vintages Wine Panel: Aromas of plum, red fruit, blueberry, spice and smoke invite you to investigate further. The palate is medium bodied and fruity, with sour cherry and blueberry prominent, along with spice and earth suggestions. Very pleasing finish and length. My note: Like a peppery, spicy gamay/Beaujolais: nice. Medium-bodied and smooth with peppered cherry and field raspberry notes. Food pairings: roasted pork tenderloin, blue cheese. Drink: 2011 - 2013 221051 13.1% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Inniskillin Niagara Estate Winemaker's Series Three Vineyards Pinot Noir 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: The titular "three vineyards" where fruit for this wine was grown are Braeburn Estate Vineyard (Niagara River), Heron Pond Vineyard (Beamsville Bench), and Montague Vineyard (Four Mile Creek). Ruby-coloured in the glass with classic Pinot aromas of earth, dark cherry, redcurrant and plum, along with accents of smoke, vanilla bean and new leather. Elegant and superbly balanced, with a medium body and fine, developing tannins. Cellar this pretty wine for up to 3 years, or enjoy it tonight. My note: Lush and delicious: just what pinot should be! Jubilant cherries dance across your mouth caressed with a satin texture and layers of pleasure. Perfectly medium-bodied. Pinot Noir food pairings: beef bourguignon, blackened lamb. Drink: 2011 - 2015 175174 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Southbrook Vineyards Whimsy Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Ann Sperling, who has dubbed this wine The Winemaker's Palette, has "painted" a lovely wine from the superb 2007 vintage in Niagara. Aromas of raspberry, boysenberry, tilled earth and woodsmoke are front and centre. The palate is dry and fruity, yet fine tannins come through for balance. This Cab Sauv, from the great 2007 vintage, is beautifully constructed. Enjoy it tonight or cellar it for up to three years. My note: Blackberry liqueur richness and depth with full-on hedonistically ripe fruit and a dark spice finish. Hard to believe it’s only 12% alcohol, but it’s also a pleasant surprise for such flavor. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast leg of lamb, slow-cooked meat dishes. Drink: 2011 - 2015 260281 12% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Koyle Royale Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: This new project for the Undurraga family has seen them focus their efforts considerably in order to achieve excellence - small operation, small yields, limited quantities. A tremendously deep ruby in the glass, this is alive with aromas of smoke, black cherry, vanilla and dark chocolate. Dry and full bodied, it is very well structured with firm tannins and a great core of acidity. Ripe and generous fruit throughout. Delicious. Enjoy this tonight, or cellar for 5+ years. My note: A rugged, robust, cedary cab with mouth-watering aromas of wild blackberries. Very clean with a nice finish. Great balance. Decant 2 hours. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: rare steak. Drink: 2011 - 2014 255760 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Montes Limited Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenère 2010, Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: This modern blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Carmenère is truly a superb value that shows the best of both varieties with its blueberry, plum, blackberry and spice flavours. It's dry and mouthfilling with plush fruit flavour and a lengthy finish. If you're a Cab lover looking for something a little different, then look no further. Hearty dishes with a bit of spice are a great match. My note: What crafty winemaking here! Just the right blend of the two grapes to produce a wine that is packed with dark fruit flavour but also has length, balance and depth. Pretty amazing for the price point! Drink: 2011 - 2014 16071 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. October 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine J. Boulon Morgon Gamay (Beaujolais) 2009, A.C., Beaujolais, France: Light and happy with juicy tart cherries. Smooth and medium-bodied. Not a wine to analyze: one to enjoy! Gamay (Beaujolais) food pairings: leg of lamb and fried potatoes. Drink: 2011 - 2013 241166 13.1% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Pipeau Meritage 2008, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux A.C., France: Stunning, especially for this price point! A superb cellar-dweller. Bring it out when it's ready to shine in a couple of years with that juicy filet mignon. Beautifully structured with black fruit and smoke, full-bodied weight with elegance. Drink: 2011 - 2018 302018 13% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Troplong Mondot Grand Cru Meritage 2007, A.C., Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France: If you love oak and a classic, full-bodied Bordeaux, this is your wine. Generous dollops of smoky oak and vanilla under which emerges black fruit and dark spices. Decant for a month… kidding, 2 hours at least though. Drink: 2012 - 2018 102715 13% XD 750 mL $115.00 Score: 91/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Grand Veneur Les Champauvins Alain Jaume & Fils 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, Rhône, France: Black cherry liqueur runs through the heart of this gorgeous, full-bodied red. Smooth as velvet and as seductive as satin sheets. Bring it on! Drink: 2011 - 2020 76331 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. October 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe La Crau 2008, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: A granddaddy among the reds of this region: beautifully structured with black-red fruit, smoke and dark spices. Savoury, cedary and chewy. Bring a fork to drink it! Drink: 2012 - 2018 951475 14.5% XD 750 mL $105.00 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Giacomo Fenocchio Bussia Barolo Nebbiolo (Barolo, Barbaresio) 2005, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This cru Barolo comes from the finest part of Fenocchio's Bussia vineyards located in Monforte Alba. They age the wine for three years in Slavonian oak casks and then another year in bottle before release. My note: Incredibly mouth-watering with a tarry black fruit streak and violets through the middle. Needs cellar time. Balanced and full-bodied. Nebbiolo (Barolo, Barbaresio) food pairings: slow-cooked roast beef, grilled-rare steaks. Drink: 2013 - 2018 232421 14.1% XD 750 mL $42.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Masseria Altemura Aasseo Primitivo 2008, I.G.T., Salento, Puglia, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: From late-harvested grapes comes this fine, very quaffable Primitivo. Aromas of mincemeat, blueberry, spun sugar and dried cherry. A touch off-dry, it's crowd-pleasing and gives a hint of the Cali style (Primitivo is the same grape as Zinfandel), yet still has Italian sensibilities. Forward fruit and silky tannins means it well now. My note: Pure purple goodness with lip-smacking purple plums and fleshy blueberries. Full-bodied and smooth, this is a terrific BBQ or pizza wine. Primitivo food pairings: barbecued back ribs in a rich sauce, gourmet sundried-tomato pizza. Drink: 2011 - 2014 230573 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Volpaia Giovannella Stianti Chianti Classico 2008, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: True character of Volpaia's 2008 Chianti Classico is a pretty, mid-weight offering informed by tobacco, flowers, herbs and cherries. As is often the case in cooler years, these high-altitude vineyards tend to yield a more ethereal style of wine. Still, this Chianti Classico finds its balance nicely with time in the glass. It is a model of restrained elegance. My note: Perfect for tomato sauce. sun-dried tomato and baked fruit with a mouth-watering juiciness, smooth texture. Chianti Classico food pairings: tomato sauce. sun-dried tomato, baked fruit. Drink: 2011 - 2016 953828 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Casa Di Terra Moreccio Bolgheri 2009, D.O.C.,Tuscany, Italy: A big dollop of oak with smoky vanilla aromas. Black fruit emerges after that with juicy, mouth-watering full-bodied goodness. Drink: 2011 - 2015 232405 14.3% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Farina Le Pezze Classico Amarone Della Valpolicella 2007, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel:A lush, intense, full-flavoured wine that will fit extremely well with classic autumn foods. The wine is filled with aromas of mocha, plum, prune and vanilla. It is dry, rich, complex and layered, with ample tannin for balance and potential ageing (3-5 years). A superb value in Amarone. My note: Purple plum lush and plush and hardly as big as the usual amarone. Delicious, mouth-watering layers of pure fruit. Amarone Della Valpolicella food pairings: grilled meats, rich stews. Drink: 2011 - 2018 171587 14% XD 750 mL $40.95 Score: 91/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Michele Castellani Cinque Stelle Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2006, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: This one lit up my nose hair with its alcoholic warmth and black fruit aromas. Full-bodied and delicious: it offers a full-palate-whack of black cherries. Drink: 2011 - 2015 75127 15.5% D 750 mL $52.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bovin Venus 2008, Tikves, Macedonia: Vintages Wine Panel: Bovin Venus is a blend of the local Vranec (whose name means "black stallion"), and Merlot. The aromas suggest raspberry, plum, cedar and vanilla. Dry and flavourful, this is an intriguing wine. My note: Savoury, juicy and meaty: just perfect for game meats and venison. Terrific juicy black plums and wild blackberry notes. Food pairings: roasted pork, veal cutlets, spicy cheeses, game, venison. Drink: 2011 - 2014 222687 14.1% XD 750 mL $14.00 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

KWV Kwv Merlot 2008, W.O., Coastal Region, South Africa: Vintages Wine Panel: Deep ruby colour with aromas of strawberry-rhubarb, tomato paste, bramble and graphite. Dry, fruity, and cedary with a good core of tannin for balance. Medium bodied, with a long, rather lush finish. My note: Incredibly juicy and mouth-watering and plush with fleshy ripe blackberries and dark plums. Love it! Merlot food pairings: roast beef and rösti potatoes, steak pizza. Drink: 2011 - 2014 522219 14.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Liberty School Zinfandel 2008, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Take note, students of wine! Here's a quick lesson on the subject of Zinfandel: Croatian in origin, this grape took so well to the Californian climate that in the 19th century it became this sunny state's signature variety. Displaying classic flavours of wild blackberry and spice, this 2008 is a prime example of the style. My note: Juicy and delicious, just what you want and expect in Cal Zin! Brambleberry, blackberry and blueberry topple each other in race to get to your senses. Zinfandel food pairings: grilled gourmet sausages, medium-rare steaks. Drink: 2011 - 2015 41095 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

7 Deadly Old Vine Michael & David Phillips Zinfandel 2004, Lodi, California, United States: Smoky black fruit goodness, like a campfire with your best friend under a crisp moonlit October night. Love it! Juicy berries: black, blue and purple. Yum! Zinfandel food pairings: sauce-covered rich meats, variety of cheeses. Drink: 2007 - 2012 59311 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel 2009, Sonoma County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: The Seghesio name has been a part of Sonoma's Zinfandel story since 1895. Today, sourcing grapes from vines averaging 25-30 years in age, they produce some of the best Zins going. Their 2007 was #10 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 list of 2008 - certainly no fluke. Their 2009 shows notes of raspberry, blackberry and subtle spice. Demonstrating great structure, this is an elegant Zin. My note: Wonderfully rich and ripe with flavours that don’t overwhelm. It’s hard to believe that this is 15% alcohol as it certainly doesn’t taste that robust. Full-bodied, yes, but balanced and delicious. Zinfandel food pairings: ribs in a zesty barbecue sauce. Drink: 2011 - 2016 942151 14.8% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pazzo Call Me Crazy Proprietary Red Bacio Divino Named Varietal Blends-Red 2007, Napa Valley, California, United States: A heavy-hitter with big black fruit, and mouth-watering juiciness. Some anise and black licorice on the finish. Very savoury and chewy. Drink: 2011 - 2015 677708 14.6% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Shafer Vineyards One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United States: I’m in love and his name is Shafer! How can I count the ways? Maybe the blackberry-black currant fruit? The smoke and judicious weave of oak? The incredible length that leaves you whimpering for more? Who knows. This winemaker is merciless. Drink: 2011 - 2018 45476 14.5% D 750 mL $165.00 Score: 94/100. October 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ridge Vineyards Geyserville Zinfandel 2009, Sonoma County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Under the American AVA laws, a wine must be at least 75% from a single variety to be varietally labelled. Since this wine is a blend of 74% Zinfandel, 17% Carignane, 6% Petite Sirah, 2% Alicante Bouschet and 1% Mataro (Mourvèdre), it cannot be called a Zinfandel. Instead, Ridge uses the Geyserville designation, where the grapes are grown. Since each vintage is unique, it is hard to nail down the Geyserville style other than to say they are frequently complex, unique and extraordinary. This 2009, bottled in February 2011, is no exception. Cellar it 4+ years, or enjoy it now. My note: Robust and juicy with luscious layers of blackberry and black plum. Overpriced by $10, but this brand has power. You won’t be disappointed. Perfect for hearty meats of just about any kind. Zinfandel food pairings: roast beef dinner. Drink: 2011 - 2016 723072 14.5% XD 750 mL $96.00 Score: 91/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Union Wine Kings Ridge Pinot Noir 2009, Oregon, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: A very intense nose that offers rich dark cherry and spice notes. The palate is medium bodied, dry, and very flavourful, with a nice savoury softness and excellent varietal expression. More pepper and dark cherry notes throughout this well-structured, balanced, long-finishing Pinot. My note: Love this style of pinot that’s less ripe and fleshy than Californian pinot… more edgy with vibrant acidity and tarter fruit. Much better for food. This one has zippy cherries and a satin texture. Pinot Noir food pairings: cedar-planked salmon. Drink: 2011 - 2015 237776 13.9% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Michele Castellani Cinque Stelle Classico Amarone della Valpolicella 2007, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy Drink: 2011 - 2017 75127 15.5% D 750 mL $52.95 October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sparkling Wine

Oyster Bay Cuvée Brut Chardonnay, New Zealand, New Zealand: Toasty and vibrant with green apple. Zesty refreshment. Drink: 2011 - 2014 238195 12% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Brut Rosé Champagne 2003, A.C., Champagne, France: Spectacular! I love rose bubbly the best. It means happiness and success. Gorgeous aromas of fleeting field raspberries combine with toasty effervescent. It’s liquid loveliness. Rosé Champagne food pairings: turkey sandwiches, veal tenderloin, light fruit pastries. Drink: 2011 - 2016 69831 12.5% XD 750 mL $87.95 Score: 95/100. October 2011. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Love it! Muscular, rich, toasty and full-bodied… just like James Bond who loved this bubbly. Spectacularly well-made… you will never, ever be disappointed with it… or will I if you give it as a gift. 384529 12% XD 750 mL $69.95 Score: 95/100. October 2011. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Catena Bodega Catena Zapata Chardonnay 2009, Estate Lots, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: Vibrant array of aromas, including coconut, oatmeal, cardamom, yellow plum, vanilla custard and guava. Dry, very generous with lots of fruit along with equally appealling oak notes and fresh acidity. Full bodied with a long finish. This big and bold wine has a surprising elegance to it too. Cellar it 2-4+ years, or savour tonight. My note: Rich and full-bodied with generous layers of tropical fruit, peach and green apple. Just the right amount of smoke to create a luscious package of complete satisfaction for Chardonnay lovers. Chardonnay food pairings: rich seafood pasta dishes, boiled lobster, grilled pork tenderloin. Drink: 2011 - 2016 959973 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Penfolds Thomas Hyland Riesling 2008, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia: Classic Riesling: love this style! Very flinty, wet rock on the nose followed by mouth-watering lime zest, white peach. Perfect food wine. Drink: 2011 - 2015 146746 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 2011. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate Sunrock Vineyard Chardonnay 2008, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Rich aromas of apple, peach, nectarine, butterscotch, toast and vanilla greet the nose. The palate is equally complex and exciting, with beautifully defined aroma replays. Dry, balanced, medium bodied, and creamy with a very good length to the citrusy finish. My note: A lovely, buttery, apricot-ripe chardonnay that’s not too heavy. To-die-for with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled chicken kebabs, roast pork, roast chicken. Drink: 2011 - 2014 249516 13.9% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fielding Estate Winery Pinot Gris 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Dry and mouth-watering with white melon and grapefruit notes. Clean and crisp Perfect aperitif. Drink: 2011 - 2014 251108 12% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes Chardonnay Musqué 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Château des Charmes is the pioneer in Ontario for this 'muscat-scented' wine. It could be argued that, though not developed here, it was perfected in the province. This pretty, floral-infused wine offers up plenty of grapefruit, lavender and spice characteristics. Makes a unique sipper. My note: Light and floral with exotic aromas of orange zest and rose petal. Perfect for Asian dishes Chardonnay Musqué food pairings: garlic-shrimp curry, Asian dishes. Drink: 2011 - 2014 640516 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Morandé Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Grassy good and refreshing with a solid medium-body. Stunning for the price point. Drink: 2011 - 2013 252346 13.5% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Carolina Barrica Selection Chardonnay 2009, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: Pale straw-lemon colour with aromas of tropical fruit, ripe apple with cinnamon, buttered toast, guava and a hint of banana. Dry, intensely fruity and toasty, but in good harmony with neither dominating the other. A vibrant acidity provides refreshing crispness. Full bodied with a medium-long finish that is simultaneously elegant and robust. My note: Stunning for this price point! Rich, toasted almonds wrap around a core of green apple vibrancy. Balanced and luscious, with loads of hedonistic happiness. This is an amazing party wine and it also works well for dinner parties. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, roast pork. Drink: 2011 - 2014 928580 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. October 2011. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pierre Sparr Réserve Gewurztraminer 2009, A.C., Alsace, France Gewurztraminer food pairings: rich seafood dishes, mildly spiced Thai foods. Drink: 2011 - 2017 747600 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vieil Armand Ollwiller Grand Cru Pinot Gris 2007, A.C., Alsace, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Another spectacular off-dry Alsatian Pinot Gris from a fine single vineyard, featuring aromas of white flowers, peach, melon and a hint of almond. Fruity and fresh with excellent spice and mineral tones. Good acidity brings it into a fine balance. My note: Love it! Juicy and succulent with a lovely nectarine, orange blossom aroma. Fresh and mouth-watering. Perfect for Asian dishes. Pinot Gris food pairings: blackened catfish, spicy prawn dishes, Asian dishes. Drink: 2011 - 2016 224279 13.2% M 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

André & Edmond Figeat Les Chaumiennes Pouilly-Fumé 2010, A.C., Loire, France: Vintages Wine Panel: An attractive nose of nettle, grass, apple and grilled onions. The palate is dry, crisp and smoky with vegetal flavours mingling in with the apple and pear fruit. A seam of racy acidity keeps the various elements balanced and in check. Nice length. Enjoy this pleasing Sauvignon Blanc. My note: Lovely, lifted green apple flavor and lime zest. A touch of oak that gives only a whisper of smoke on the finish. Pouilly-Fumé food pairings: smoked seafood platter. Drink: 2011 - 2015 196659 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dr. Burklin-Wolf Wachenheimer Trocken Riesling 2009, Q.B.A., Pfalz, Germany: Perfect with amazing mineral, flinty depth of flavour with white peach and succulent, give-me-more Asian pear. Drink: 2011 - 2017 25777 12.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Case Ibidini Valle Dell'acate Insolia 2010, I.G.T., Sicily, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Sicily's native Insolia grape creates fresh and floral white wines that also feature plum and citrus fruit, along with bright acidity that makes them perfect partners for fish and seafood dishes. Enjoy this one. My note: Pretty and fresh with lovely white floral aromas and melon and lime zest. Terrifically refreshing. Insolia food pairings: grilled trout with lemon and capers, Sicilian linguine con finocchio e sarde (linguine with fennel and sardines). Drink: 2011 - 2014 211839 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Graham Beck Sauvignon Blanc 2010, W.O., Coastal Region, South Africa: Full-on grassy, herbal spriteliness with zippy, mouth-watering acidity. Pure refreshment with lime zest. Drink: 2011 - 2013 948620 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. October 2011. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pahlmeyer Chardonnay 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Gorgeous depth, and yes, it deserves this price. Rich layers of toasted almond decadence with green apple, Asian pear and happiness. Drink: 2011 - 2018 147454 14.9% D 750 mL $79.95 Score: 94/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Drouhin Arthur Chardonnay 2008, Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: How absolutely delightful! Pure green apple sunshine infused with a toasted almond finish. The Chardonnay was fermented half in stainless steel and half in 30% new oak, then the oak-fermented portion went through malolactic fermentation to give a creamier mouth-feel. Drink: 2011 - 2017 959619 14.1% XD 750 mL $29.75 Score: 91/100. October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Catena Bodega Catena Zapata Chardonnay 2013, Estate Lots, Mendoza, Argentina Chardonnay food pairings: rich seafood pasta dishes, boiled lobster, grilled pork tenderloin. Drink: 2011 - 2016 959973 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 October 2011. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Drouhin Arthur Chardonnay 2015, Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States Drink: 2011 - 2017 959619 14.1% XD 750 mL $29.75 October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pahlmeyer Chardonnay 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States Drink: 2011 - 2018 147454 14.9% D 750 mL $79.95 October 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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