Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Wine Picks October 31, 2012

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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.

Domaine de Grand Pré Pomme d'Or, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia: Pure apple essence and sunlight. Very cider-like in a lovely way. Notes of baked apple and caramel. 977736 375 mL Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Benjamin Bridge Vero Tidal Bay 2011, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada: A subtle rendition of the Tidal Bay wine style with lovely lime blossom aromas. Light-bodied and refreshing. Tidal Bay food pairings: Malagash or Shan Daph Oysters, Digby scallops, fundy lobster or line-fresh haddock. Drink: 2011 - 2013 695555000188 11% D 750 mL $21.99 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Painted Rock Estate Winery Red Icon Named Varietal Blends-Red 2009, Okanagan Valley, B.C. V.Q.A., Canada: This is a spectacular blend of Bordeaux grapes: 30% merlot, 29% cabernet franc, 25% cabernet sauvignon, 15% petit sirah, 1% syrah. A heavy-hitter that gets more refined every year. This vintage has the caged power of a tiger stalking back and forth behind bars... decant it and you'll taste that gorgeously savage energy and concentration. Loaded with dark fruit and toasty oak. This wine spent 18 months in 95% new French oak. Unleash your inner tiger and slake more than your thirst with this wine. Named Varietal Blends-Red food pairings: premium cut of steak, wild mushrooms and a rich demi-glace. Drink: 2012 - 2022 284190 14.3% XD 750 mL $85.00 Score: 97/100. October 2012. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Okanagan, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Aromas of white melon, white pepper and lemon. Refreshing, crisp and medium-bodied. Drink: 2011 - 2013 57430 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Reserve Riesling Icewine 2010, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada: Beautifully crafted and balanced dessert wine! Elegant, seamless with long flavours of pear and peach. Drink: 2012 - 2020 776545995216 8.5% S 375 mL $69.99 Score: 94/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Select Lot Collection Merlot 2006, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada: A big, black-hearted wonder with a smoky finish. Aromas of black plum and dark chocolate. Could use more cellar time. Definitely decant for 1-2 hours. Drink: 2012 - 2016 776545995841 14% D 750 mL $29.99 Score: 90/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Reserve Pinot Gris 2009, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada: Pleasant white melon notes with some white peach on the palate. Crisp and lively. Medium-bodied. Drink: 2010 - 2013 776545991171 13.5% D 750 mL $19.99 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Five Vineyards Pinot Grigio 2010, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada: Robust and zesty yet refreshing. Great acidity for many dishes. Terrific citrus finish. Pinot Grigio food pairings: oysters, light salads, creamy pasta dishes, or sushi. Drink: 2011 - 2013 776545995322 13.5% D 750 mL $15.99 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Reserve Vidal Icewine 2009, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada: Luxurious apricot and peach preserves elixir for after dinner. A honeyed finish will have you buzzing with happiness. Drink: 2012 - 2017 776545991201 8.5% S 375 mL $49.99 Score: 91/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Five Vineyards Cabernet Merlot 2009, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada: Solid structure, well-built with a good grip on the palate. Attractive ripe blackberry and cassis notes. Decant for 1-2 hours. Drink: 2011 - 2015 776545985507 13.5% D 750 mL $16.99 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Okanagan V.Q.A., Canada: Subtle, smooth and full-bodied with luscious black fruit and cassis aromas and flavours. A lovely, long finish with some tobacco on the end. Drink: 2012 - 2016 776545995100 13% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. October 2012. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Open Cab2-Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2011, Ontario, Canada: A mouth-filling red with layers of fleshy blackberries, blackcurrant and a lick of vanilla spice. This full-bodied number delivers lots of hedonistic pleasure for those who enjoy instant gratification. (Translation: You don't need to cellar this bottle!) The price is amazing for such a well-made wine. Perfect for potluck gatherings, book clubs and evenings when you want to wear your faded jeans. Pair with: pepper steak, lamb with rosemary, tacos, fajitas. Drink: 2012 - 2014 134957 12% 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Ortega 2011, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada: Lovely white floral notes with some dry white peach. Terrific for seafood and salads. Drink: 2012 - 2015 5632489550049 11.5% MD 750 mL $22.00 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards L'acadie 2011, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada: Crisp and clean and refreshing with bright lemon-lime notes. An easy food companion or aperitif. Drink: 2012 - 2015 5632489550032 12% D 750 mL $20.00 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Tidal Bay 2011, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada: One of the prettiest Tidal Bay wines I've tasted: fresh, crisp and floral with lovely replays of white peach on the palate. Drink: 2012 - 2014 5632489550117 11% MD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 89/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Triumphe 2011, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada: A vibrant, full-bodied red with zesty aromas and flavours of purple and black plums. Smooth and tasty. Drink: 2012 - 2015 5632489550025 12.5% D 750 mL $20.00 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Phone Box Red 2010, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada: A rich, medium- to full-bodied red with very attractive aromas and flavours of red and black plums. Easy-drink and versatile with many meat dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2017 5632489550001 13.5% D 750 mL $20.00 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Meyer Family Vineyards McLean Creek Road Chardonnay 2009, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada: Gorgeous hazelnut and green apple aromas on the nose followed by a rich, voluptuous texture on the palate and layers of orchard fruit flavours. Full-bodied and generous. Lovely balancing acidity for food. Drink: 2012 - 2016 298240 13.5% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 91/100. October 2012. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Winery Inc. Quarry Road Riesling 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada: This organic and biodynamic wine is superb! The vines were grown on a limestone base and the wine shows an incredible mineral depth. Joyous aromas of lime and white peach leap from the glass. Mouth-watering and endlessly delicious. Food matches: salads, shrimp and oysters, creamy cheeses, and marinated vegetables. Also perfect for seafood dishes including lobster, shrimp, crab, and white fish. Pasta tossed with olive oil, fresh herbs, and grilled seafoods. Riesling food pairings: seafood platter, pan fried white fish, seafood salad, raw oysters, creamy cheeses. Drink: 2012 - 2015 198853 10.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 93/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Benjamin Bridge Vero Tidal Bay 2014, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Tidal Bay food pairings: Malagash or Shan Daph Oysters, Digby scallops, fundy lobster or line-fresh haddock. Drink: 2011 - 2013 695555000188 11% D 750 mL $21.99 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Benjamin Bridge Taurus Marechal Foch 2010, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Marechal Foch food pairings: grilled steaks, roast chicken, loin of pork, traditional pasta dishes or on its own.. Drink: 2016 - 2018 1009473 12% D 750 mL $29.95 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve Muscat 2016, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada Muscat food pairings: spicy Asian cuisine. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1009895 11% MD 750 mL $18.50 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve Ortega 2013, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada Ortega food pairings: summer greens, fish poultry, cheeses. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1005902 12% MD 750 mL $20.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Tidal Bay 2016, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2014 5632489550117 11% MD 750 mL $20.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Triumphe 2015, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2015 5632489550025 12.5% D 750 mL $20.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Ortega 2016, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2015 5632489550049 11.5% MD 750 mL $22.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Phone Box Red 2014, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2017 5632489550001 13.5% D 750 mL $20.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Five Vineyards Cabernet Merlot 2011, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada Drink: 2011 - 2015 776545985507 13.5% D 750 mL $16.99 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Reserve Pinot Gris 2012, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada Drink: 2010 - 2013 776545991171 13.5% D 750 mL $19.99 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve Ortega 2011, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada Ortega food pairings: summer greens, fish poultry, cheeses. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1005902 12% MD 750 mL $20.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve Muscat 2012, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada Muscat food pairings: spicy Asian cuisine. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1009895 11% MD 750 mL $18.50 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Benjamin Bridge Taurus Marechal Foch 2009, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Marechal Foch food pairings: grilled steaks, roast chicken, loin of pork, traditional pasta dishes or on its own.. Drink: 2016 - 2018 1009473 12% D 750 mL $29.95 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Open Cab2-Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2019, Ontario, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2014 134957 12% 750 mL $14.95 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sperling Vineyards Old Vines Riesling 2013, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada Riesling food pairings: Germanic style dishes, shellfish, salads, fresh seafood. Drink: 2012 - 2018 134486 10.2% MD 750 mL $32.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Oculus 2014, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2022 776545981332 14% D 750 mL $80.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Oculus 2015, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2022 776545981332 14% D 750 mL $80.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Oculus 2016, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2022 776545981332 14% D 750 mL $80.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Oculus 2009, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Spectacular! One of the best vintages of this flagship wine I've tasted. Mastery in both the vineyard and winery shows here with rich and complex layers of dark fruit, dried herbs and cigar box. This is a cellar keeper ... if you can resist opening it. Drink: 2012 - 2022 776545981332 14% D 750 mL $80.00 Score: 96/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ganton & Larsen Prospect Winery Council's Punch Bowl Sauvignon Blanc 2011, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Zippy and refreshing with pleasant melon aromas and flavours. Not too herbal or grassy. Great aperitif or food companion. Terrific price. Drink: 2012 - 2013 776545400048 12% D 750 mL $12.99 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ganton & Larsen Prospect Winery Larch Tree Hill Riesling 2011, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Absolutely delightful and remarkable for the price! Lovely, bright aromas of lime, lemon and melon with mouth-watering acidity that's a great food complement. The faintest touch of sweetness ups the deliciousness factor. Terrific! Drink: 2012 - 2016 776545400055 12.5% D 750 mL $12.99 Score: 89/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ganton & Larsen Prospect Winery Ogopogo's Lair Pinot Grigio 2011, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Crisp and clean with no oak. Aromas of white grapefruit and lemon. Medium-bodied. Good aperitif. Drink: 2012 - 2013 776545400017 12% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 85/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ganton & Larsen Prospect Winery Red Willow Shiraz 2009, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Canada: A juicy, full-bodied red with dark red and black fruit aromas and flavours. Supple and easy-drinking. Perfect for steak or meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2012 - 2015 776545400093 14% D 750 mL $16.99 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ganton & Larsen Prospect Winery Townsend Jack Unoaked Chardonnay 2011, V.Q.A, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Clean, crisp and straight-forward. No oak, just refreshment and white melon notes. Drink: 2012 - 2014 776545400031 12.5% D 750 mL $12.99 Score: 85/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Open Chardonnay 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara, Ontario, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2014 305151 11.5% XD 750 mL $13.10 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Chardonnay 2010, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Gorgeous! Full-bodied, buttery and round with a luxurious hazelnut, toasted almond nose. So balanced yet packed with character and flavour. Don't over-chill this wine or you'll miss all its fine nuances. Chardonnay food pairings: rotisserie chicken with thyme and crispy roasted potatoes. Drink: 2012 - 2018 510933 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 93/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Beautifully structured and elegant, yet there's an underlying pent-up power and concentration. Dark fruit aromas and some smoke on a long, satisfying finish. Perfect for dinner parties. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled striploin or roasted game birds. Drink: 2012 - 2018 508200 14.5% XD 750 mL $38.00 Score: 93/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Estate Winery Merlot 2010, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Savoury and mouth-watering with gorgeous fleshy dark fruit. Could use some cellar time to bring out its finer nuances that will emerge with time. Classic. Merlot food pairings: Angus beef tenderloin with Lyonnaise potato, field beans and mushroom sauté. Drink: 2017 - 2020 639633 12% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 91/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Estate Winery Old Vines Foch 2010, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Smoky and savoury with fleshy black fruit. Full-bodied and smooth. The best old vines foch I've ever tasted. Foch food pairings: bison or beef. Drink: 2012 - 2017 639625 14% 750 mL $24.99 Score: 91/100. October 2012. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jackson-Triggs Grand Reserve Shiraz 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada: Mocha and cigar smoke wrap around black fleshy plum aromas. Rich, full-bodied, supple and smooth. Lots of layers of pleasure here. Shiraz food pairings: grilled game meats with balsamic reduction, beef and pepper stew, whiskey BBQ ribs, meat lover’s pizza. Drink: 2012 - 2016 80011979 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars Pinot Blanc 2011, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Crisp and refreshing with white melon notes. Nice aperitif. Drink: 2012 - 2018 329441 13% XD 750 mL $17.90 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars Chardonnay 2011, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Smoky with orchard fruit and a full-bodied but balanced weight. Delicious and layered with a long finish. Drink: 2012 - 2018 564996 12.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars Pinot Gris 2011, Okanagan Valley, BC V.Q.A., Canada: Zesty lime and lemon notes in this crisp, clean white. Great companion to many dishes including seafood and shellfish. Medium-bodied. Drink: 2012 - 2018 524040 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sperling Vineyards Sparkling Brut 2008, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: I am coveting this wine and fearful I won't be able to get a steady supply. It's a spectacular bubbly and a bargain price. Toasty, apple goodness. Oh my. Sparkling Brut food pairings: starters to steak, Nigri Sushi, oysters. Drink: 2009 - 2015 478669 11.3% MD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sperling Vineyards Old Vines Riesling 2011, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: A classic B.C. riesling with zippy lime refreshment yet a deep and penetrating minerality. Ann Sperling has a deft touch. Medium-bodied and ultra-food friendly. Riesling food pairings: Germanic style dishes, shellfish, salads, fresh seafood. Drink: 2012 - 2018 134486 10.2% MD 750 mL $32.00 Score: 93/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sperling Vineyards Pinot Gris 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Crisp, dry and refreshing with attractive notes of peach and pear. terrific aperitif or companion to seafood. Pinot Gris food pairings: semi-soft artisanal cheeses, firm fish and spring vegetable risotto.. Drink: 2012 - 2017 134528 13.9% D 750 mL $52.95 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sperling Vineyards Sper...Itz 2011, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Vibrant and lovely! infused with sunny peach essence. The off-dry nature lends itself beautifully to dishes with a touch of sweetness (think glazed ham) or spicy heat. Sper...Itz food pairings: soft-artisnal cheeses, fresh fruit, as a palate cleanser. Drink: 2012 - 2017 254573 14% XD 750 mL $89.00 Score: 90/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Hills Estate Winery Nota Bene Meritage 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada: Spectacular! Full-bodied, rich, deep and delicious with layers of black fruit desire. Smooth texture unfolds to a long finish. This will do well in the cellar, but why wait? Drink: 2012 - 2020 959220 14% XD 750 mL $60.00 Score: 96/100. October 2012. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Hills Estate Winery Syrah 2008, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada: Gorgegous balance between fleshy dark fruit and a satisfying full-bodied weight. Loaded with blackberry and black raspberry aromas and flavours yet finishes dry and smoky. Divine! Drink: 2012 - 2016 22633 14.1% D 750 mL $46.95 Score: 94/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Hills Estate Winery Carmenere 2010, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Luxurious, rich and full-bodied: a wine for hedonists! Liquid black velvet rolls across your mouth voluptuously in a tide of black fleshy berries. Long finish leaves you wanting more. Drink: 2012 - 2018 0380063 12.5% D 750 mL $50.00 Score: 94/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Hills Estate Winery Alibi 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada: A tasty blend of 75% sauvignon blanc and 25% semillon grapes. Fresh green apple notes with no heavy oak influence. A citrus lift on the finish. Drink: 2012 - 2015 129114 12.5% D 750 mL $25.00 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Hills Estate Winery Viognier 2010, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy and mouth-watering with subtle white floral notes. Don't serve this lovely white wine over-chilled or you'll miss its delicate nuances. Refreshing acidity for a wide range of dishes from seafood to mild curries. Drink: 2012 - 2015 22634 13.4% D 750 mL $36.00 Score: 89/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bartier Scholefield Wines White Table Wine Pinot Blanc 2010, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: A light, refreshing white with mild aromas of white flowers and lime blossom. Pinot Blanc food pairings: fresh fish, slow roasted chicken, pizza, Chinese food. Drink: 2011 - 2013 164467 11% D 750 mL $18.99 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bartier Scholefield Wines Red Table Wine 2008, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: A pleasant, light- to medium-bodied smooth red with red fruit aromas and flavours. Food pairings: pork tenderloin, beef, hard cheese, noodles/spaghetti. Drink: 2011 - 2013 164517 13.7% D 750 mL $19.99 Score: 86/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve L'acadie Blanc 2010, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada: A clean, crisp white with great acidity for shellfish and seafood. Light- to medium-bodied. L'acadie Blanc food pairings: shellfish, poultry and veal. Drink: 2010 - 2015 1008196 12% D 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve Muscat 2011, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada: Orange blossom and honeysuckle aromas with a crisp acidity. Terrific for spicy dishes and curries. Muscat food pairings: spicy Asian cuisine. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1009895 11% MD 750 mL $18.50 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve Ortega 2010, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada: Attractive white floral notes with peach. Ortega is a cross between Muller-Thurgau and Siegerrebe grapes, the latter has a parentage of riesling and gewurztraminer. Light- to medium-bodied. Ortega food pairings: summer greens, fish poultry, cheeses. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1005902 12% MD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 86/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Tidal Bay 2011, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada: Lovely, light and floral with an ocean breeze on the finish. Tidal Bay food pairings: seafood, shellfish, salads. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1013651 11% MD 750 mL $22.50 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Rose 2011, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada: Dry and mouth-watering with lovely notes of field strawberries. Delightful and very food-friendly! Rose food pairings: summer salads, poultry and pork. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1008192 11.5% MD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve Foch 2010, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada: A smooth, full-bodied, dry red with attractive dark notes. Foch food pairings: red meat, game or pasta with red sauces. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1003164 12.5% D 750 mL $25.00 Score: 85/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Benjamin Bridge Taurus Marechal Foch 2007, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada: Robust and full-bodied with dark chocolate and mocha aromas on the nose. Lots of oak with black smoky fruit, cloves and dark spices on the finish. Reminds me somewhat of baco noir. Marechal Foch food pairings: grilled steaks, roast chicken, loin of pork, traditional pasta dishes or on its own.. Drink: 2016 - 2018 1009473 12% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 86/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Inniskillin Niagara Estate Sparkling Vidal Icewine 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada: Superbly exotic and wonderful! Blends the refreshment of sparkling wine and the sweet indulgence of icewine. Serve as an aperitif before a meal, with strong flavoured appetizers such as fois gras or as a dessert all on it's own. Try it after dinner with a fruit flan and feel yourself transported. Food matches: pâté. Pair with: pâté, fresh fruit desserts. Sparkling Vidal Icewine food pairings: tuna tartar with fresh chili, tempura bluecrab with mango and cucumber salsa, rich cheeses from brie to blue, fresh fruit desserts, crème brulee. Drink: 2012 - 2018 560367 9.5% S 375 mL $69.95 Score: 94/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Inniskillin Pinot Noir 2011, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Loaded with rich cherry-berry flavour delivered on a satin texture with medium- to full-bodied weight. A blackberry-infused finish makes this wine go down slippery fast. This red wine that can be served slightly chilled. Pair with: salmon carpaccio, grilled tuna and sea bass, wild mushroom risotto, bee and past marinara. Pinot Noir food pairings: traditional clove studded baked ham, split pea soup, roast turkey, grilled salmon. Drink: 2012 - 2016 261099 12.2% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. October 2012. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Grand Pré Vintner's Reserve Ortega 2012, Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, Canada Ortega food pairings: summer greens, fish poultry, cheeses. Drink: 2011 - 2013 1005902 12% MD 750 mL $20.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Summerhill Pyramid Winery Cipes Vintage Syrah Shiraz 2008, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: This wonderfully exuberant bubbly has been a trusted friend for years. Zesty and vibrant notes of green apples and toast. This is an organic wine and one to enjoy! Pair with: tapas, flatbreads, salads, cheese. Syrah Shiraz food pairings: Kusshi oysters or a good crusty bread (or person). Drink: 2009 - 2014 97295 14.5% D 6000 mL $695.00 Score: 90/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Featherstone Four Feathers 2009, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Four Feathers food pairings: Caesar Salad, grilled Gruyere cheese sandwich, raclette. Drink: 2010 - 2011 341586 13% M 750 mL $12.95 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luckett Vineyards Ortega 2012, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Drink: 2012 - 2015 5632489550049 11.5% MD 750 mL $22.00 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Benjamin Bridge Vero Tidal Bay 2013, Gaspereau Valley, Ns, Canada Tidal Bay food pairings: Malagash or Shan Daph Oysters, Digby scallops, fundy lobster or line-fresh haddock. Drink: 2011 - 2013 695555000188 11% MD 750 mL $21.99 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Township 7 Vineyards & Winery Okanagan Reserve 7 Meritage 2008, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: A spicy, dark-fruited cabernet blend with good acidity and finish. Full-bodied and juicy. Food pairings: rich savoury dishes like beef tenderloin or grilled lamb and assertive cheeses. Drink: 2012 - 2018 114546 14.2% D 750 mL $34.99 Score: 88/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Township 7 Vineyards & Winery Okanagan Reserve Chardonnay 2008, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, full-bodied, rich and round chardonnay with enticing aromas of almond, butter and gala apples. Great balance. Chardonnay food pairings: curried butternut squash ravioli, breaded oysters and salmon. Drink: 2012 - 2015 34579 13.7% D 750 mL $24.99 Score: 90/100. October 2012. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

Montes Limited Selection Cabernet Carmenere 2011, Valle De Colchagua, Chile: A voluptuous, full-bodied red that unfolds on your palate like bolts of dark red satin. Elegant and balanced yet powerful. This wine delivers! Drink: 2012 - 2016 715126600026 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Greece

Thalia Mediterra Sauvignon Blanc Vilana 2011, Crete, Greece: Crisp and refreshing with notes of lime and grapefruit. Best served at a temperature of 10-12° C. Sauvignon Blanc Vilana food pairings: seafood, Chinese dishes with sweet and sour sauces, white meat and Greek dishes, white meat cooked with pineapple or fresh cream.. Drink: 2012 - 2013 273490 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.00 Score: 86/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Pasqua Villa Borghetti Passimento Rosso Regional Blended Red 2010, Veneto, Italy: A robust but smooth blend of the traditional grapes Corvina and Croatina. This red is amazing for the price point: rich dar red and black berries with a pleasant kick on the finish. Balanced and mouth-watering. Very food-friendly for hearty dishes and tomato sauce. Drink: 2012 - 2015 141952 14% XD 750 mL $11.95 Score: 87/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pasqua Villa Borghetti Passimento Rosso Regional Blended Red 2013, Veneto, Italy Drink: 2012 - 2015 141952 14% XD 750 mL $11.95 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pasqua Villa Borghetti Passimento Rosso Regional Blended Red 2014, Veneto, Italy Drink: 2012 - 2015 141952 14% XD 750 mL $11.95 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pasqua Villa Borghetti Passimento Rosso Regional Blended Red 2015, Veneto, Italy Drink: 2012 - 2015 141952 14% XD 750 mL $11.95 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Chateau St. Jean Winery and Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, North And Central Coasts, California, United States: Long recognized for producing quality Cabernet Sauvignon, Chateau St. Jean’s superbly priced version is no exception. Front and centre are ripe cassis, raspberry and wood-smoke. With the fruit nicely balanced by mid-palate tannins this wine is dry, rich, ripe and forward. Enjoy it tonight. A full-bodied, well-structure cabernet with classic notes of cassis, blackcurrant and blackberry. Food matches: beef brisket, gourmet burgers, rich meat-based pasta dish. Drink: 2012 - 2016 38034 13.8% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Big House Winery Big House Red 2011, California, United States Drink: 2013 - 2015 178632 13% 750 mL $16.95 October 2012. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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