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Wine Picks April 18, 2016

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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.

Australia

Yalumba Eden Valley Viognier 2013, Eden Valley, Australia Drink: 2014 - 2018 233220 13.5% D 750 mL $24.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Tantalus Pinot Noir 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2020 574228 13% D 750 mL $47.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosewood Estates Winery & Meadery Pinot Noir 2013, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Tart cherry-berry aromas and flavours, with lots of mouth-watering acidity. This Niagara Pinto Noir features dark cherry and cedar brush notes. Tart and tannic. Medium-bodied. Give it some cellar time. The grapes for this wine are grown in three Niagara Escarpment vineyards. Pinot Noir food pairings: turkey dinner, lamb shanks, autumn stews. Drink: 2014 - 2016 112177 12.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Flat Rock Pinot Noir 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A smooth, luscious medium-bodied Pinot Noir with attractive aromas of dark cherry and spice. This winery practices sustaiable winemaking such as geo-thermal heating and cooling, underground barrel cellars and a gravity flow winery. Pair this wine with planked salmon. Pinot Noir food pairings: BBQ smoked pulled pork. Drink: 2013 - 2018 1545 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Hypothesis 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Very aromatic with notes of wild violets and dark red berries. This is a blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 36% Merlot and 24% Cabernet Franc. Hypothesis means a proposal from the land. This wine spent 16 months in 60% French oak barrels. Pair with demi-glazed veal chops or angus beef. Drink: 2013 - 2019 414243 13.5% D 750 mL $44.00 Score: 92/100. April 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Hypothesis 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: An elegant, balanced, complex BC red wine blend that has Bordeaux leanings. This wine could use some more cellar time, then decant for 1-2 hours when you open it. The grapes are sourced from vines planted in micro-blocks of the Triggs family estate on the Golden Mile. Dark chocolate and cigar box on the finish. Huge structure here. There were 2300 cases produced. Drink: 2016 - 2020 414243 14% XD 750 mL $44.00 Score: 93/100. April 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Laura's Red 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy black fruit and toasty oak on the nose of this robust Niagara red wine. Lots of acidity and tart blackberry on the palate for dishes with a tangy tomato sauce. Good balance. Full-bodied. This full-weighted wine is intense and balanced with aromas of blackcurrant, pepper and mocha. Try it with gourmet hamburgers. Food pairings: hamburger, steak, meat pie, pulled pork. Drink: 2013 - 2016 117960 12.7% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. April 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Flat Rock The Rusty Shed Chardonnay 2012, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Love this Niagara Chardonnay: voluptuous but balanced. Like you in your jeans. Chardonnay that is the liquid version of worn-in jeans. Comfy, familiar, just right. Almost full-bodied, this tongue-loving, caressing white wine will be perfect tonight when you kick back with some buttered popcorn and an old movie. Chardonnay food pairings: pan fired scallops, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, pork tenderloin, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2020 1552 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. April 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Estate Winery Cabernet Rosé 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Fresh field berries on the nose: very enticing. Bold and refreshing with layers of small berry flavours. Dry and mouth-watering. This vivacious rose is a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Cabernet Franc grapes, which lends more depth and concentrated flavour of dark field berries and a refreshing finish. Pair with planked salmon. Cabernet Rosé food pairings: grilled bell peppers, salmon steaks, sausages, lightly savoury cheeses like white cheddar or smoked provolone. Drink: 2014 - 2016 48819 13.3% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. April 2016. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Brut 2010, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Crisp and toasty, with terrific vibrancy and zest. Aromas of green apple and freshly baked bread. Good acidity. Enjoy as aperitif or companion to shellfish. This wine was aged 4 months on its lees. It's a blend of 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay. Food pairings: oysters on the half shell, fried calamari, a variety of canapés. Drink: 2015 - 2017 12.2% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. April 2016. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Diana Block Pinot Noir 2010, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Pinot Noir food pairings: rack of lamb, mushroom risotto or roast duck with cherry-rosemary sauce. 231142 13% D 750 mL $35.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

2027 Cellars Wismer Vineard, Fox Croft Block Chardonnay 2012, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 421362 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Northfield Cabernet Franc 2010, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied PEC red wine made from cool-climate Cabernet Franc grapes. Juicy with lots of acidity and satin smooth texture with red cherry notes. No bell pepper. Pair with grilled pork chops. Cabernet Franc food pairings: steak au poivre. Drink: 2015 - 2018 149245 14% D 750 mL $35.00 Score: 87/100. April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Rose 2014, Okanagan Valley, Bristish Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: This BC rose is closed with a vino lock glass stopper for elegance of design. Only 1000 cases of this wine were produced. Drink: 2014 - 2016 13% D 750 mL $25.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Winery Inc. Quarry Road Chardonnay 2012, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A gorgeous, luscious Niagara Chardonnay from one of the region's top producers. Voluptuous yet balanced and perfectly calibrated. Aromas of freshly buttered warm bread, white peach and pear. Match with roasted chicken or turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, grilled salmon, seafood and shellfish platter. Drink: 2014 - 2019 111989 13% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 92/100. April 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Cabernet Merlot 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Savoury with dried herbs and cedar underbrush. Wild blackberry notes with forest floor. Very dense and attractive. Pair with a juicy steak. Drink: 2014 - 2017 431106 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandbanks Estate Winery Mouton Noir 2014, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A pleasant and full-bodied Ontario red wine blend of Foch and Baco Noir grapes. Luscious black and purple plums on the palate with blueberry jam on the finish. Pair with grilled meats. Food pairings: BBQ, red meats. Drink: 2014 - 2017 164087 12.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stratus White 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The 2012 vintage was a strong one in Niagara and it shows in the flagship white wine blend from Stratus. Full-bodied, rich and layered with aromas of orchard fruit and toasty oak. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2014 - 2019 660704 13.5% XD 750 mL $44.20 Score: 90/100. April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosewood Estates Winery & Meadery Select Series Pinot Noir 2013, Niagara Escarpment, Niagara V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2018 112177 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Syrah 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Remarkable value and taste for the price point, with brooding fleshy black fruit and black pepper on the nose and palate of this Niagara red wine made from Syrah grapes. Pair this black beauty with grilled steak. Drink: 2014 - 2017 66654 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. April 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Crisp and refreshing Niagara Sauvignon Blanc that leans more to the lime-citrus style than grassy-herbal. Mouth-watering and fresh. Perfect for seafood or shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: cedar plank grilled salmon, goat cheese and beet salad, mussels steamed in white wine sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2016 620724 12.7% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. April 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Pinot Grigio 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lovely lime and grapefruit freshness here. Mouth-watering with racy acidity for shellfish, or enjoy on it's own as an aperitif. Great value. Drink: 2016 - 2018 83196 12.2% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. April 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Estate Winery Cabernet Franc 2013, Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Franc food pairings: slow-cooked pork, roast turkey, beef and black bean stew, shepherd's pie. 444034 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Decora Riesling 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Only 1000 cases of this gorgeous BC Riesling were produced for the 2014 vintage, and it's almost sold out. Translation: get yourself on the mailing list for the next vintage. Very fresh with lifted lime citrus notes and pleasant petrol (wet sone) and minerality, like the minerals your almost taste of feel in clean well water versus the soft rain that hasn't touched stone. Pair with chive braised tomatoes and wishing there were more of this wine. Drink: 2014 - 2021 444836 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. April 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes Sparkling Rosé 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Strawberry bubblegum on the nose and palate with a cider reduction finish. Pair with cider marinated chicken. Sparkling Rosé food pairings: crab legs, chili, pulled pork sammies, grilled meats in a black bean sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2017 78055 12% M 750 mL $29.95 Score: 86/100. April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery Cadence 2011, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2017 451781 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Estate Winery Marianne Hill Riesling 2014, Beamsville Bench, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A pleasant and refreshing Niagara white wine made from the classic Riesling grape. Aromas of white peach and apricot. Pair with fresh seafood. Riesling food pairings: planked salmon, feta cheese, Thai seafood noodle salad, turkey breast. Drink: 2014 - 2019 443572 10.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. April 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run Indigo 2014, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This Ontario sparkling wine uses the charmat method to get the bubbles into the wine. Drink: 2016 - 2018 32373 10.7% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. April 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave Spring Cellars La Penna 2011, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2019 224303 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 April 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandbanks Estate Winery French Kiss Cabernet Merlot 2013, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2017 325332 13.6% D 750 mL $24.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pelee Island Winery Meritage 2012, Lake Erie North Shore, Pelee Island, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Meritage food pairings: prime rib. Drink: 2015 - 2018 317933 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillitteri Estates Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2013, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2015 349191 13% XD 750 mL $12.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillitteri Estates Winery Gewurztraminer Riesling 2014, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Gewurztraminer Riesling food pairings: Asian cuisine, seafood, curry. Drink: 2014 - 2018 349126 11.5% MD 750 mL $13.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Gamay Pinot Noir 2012, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This is the magnum size of this wine available only from the winery. Gamay Pinot Noir food pairings: charcuterie plates, proscuitto wrapped roasted asparagus, slow roasted chicken or turkey. Drink: 2014 - 2017 12% D 1500 mL $50.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Fancy Farm Girl Foxy Pink Rosé 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2016 394072 11% MD 750 mL $17.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Winery Inc. Grower's Blend Cabernet Franc 2012, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Franc food pairings: mature cheeses, grilled red meat, braised game meat. Drink: 2013 - 2019 284570 13% XD 750 mL $26.95 April 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Estate Winery Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2017 53371 13% XD 750 mL $26.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pelee Island Winery Vinedressers Meritage 2012, Pelee Island, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A savoury, juicy, dark-fruited southwestern Ontario red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2013 - 2018 317933 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Back 10 Cellars Blood, Sweat And Years Pinot Noir 2014, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillitteri Estates Winery Twenty Three Cabernet Merlot 2013, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 13.5% XD 750 mL $13.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

By Chadsey's Cairns Winery Pinot Noir 2014, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2016 - 2018 12% XD 750 mL $30.20 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

By Chadsey's Cairns Winery Power Take Off PTO Charmat Red Sparkling 2013, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2016 11% XD 750 mL $24.20 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

By Chadsey's Cairns Winery Reserve Chardonnay 2013, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2018 13% XD 750 mL $29.20 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

By Chadsey's Cairns Winery Chenin Blanc 2014, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2018 12% XD 750 mL $26.20 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pelee Island Winery Vinedressers Chardonnay 2012, Pelee Island, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 13% XD 750 mL $17.75 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillitteri Estates Winery Twenty Three Unoaked Chardonnay 2012, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 13% XD 750 mL $10.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes Gamay Noir Droit 2014, St. David's Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Gamay Noir Droit food pairings: Cornish hen, barbecued pork spareribs, mild cheese, meat lovers pizza.. Drink: 2014 - 2017 346742 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes Equuleus Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard 2012, St. David's Bench, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2018 319525 14% XD 750 mL $42.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Estates Winery Dry Riesling 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2021 779327194197 10% D 750 mL $14.95 April 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet Franc 2014, Vineland, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2019 594127 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stratus Cabernet Franc 2013, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2019 665034 13.5% 750 mL $38.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stratus Gamay 2014, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A plush, silky red with gorgeous medium-bodied flavours of ripe cherry and strawberry. Very versatile wine with many dishes. Gamay food pairings: Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Braised Pork Belly, Rosemary Fingerlings and Tomato Chili Jam. Drink: 2014 - 2017 312082 14% XD 750 mL $29.00 Score: 88/100. April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillitteri Estates Winery Pinot Grigio 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2017 146787 12% XD 750 mL $20.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillitteri Estates Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2012, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2017 349191 13% XD 750 mL $15.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillitteri Estates Winery Unoaked Chardonnay 2012, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2012 - 2016 64790 11.4% D 750 mL $10.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillitteri Estates Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2013, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2017 349191 13% XD 750 mL $13.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henry of Pelham Winery Cuvée Catharine Carte Blanche Blancs De Blanc 2008, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Blancs De Blanc food pairings: shellfish, fried foods, Asian fusion dishes, salad. Drink: 2012 - 2019 315200 12.5% D 750 mL $44.95 April 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coffin Ridge Bone Dry Riesling 2015, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2018 232744 11.9% D 750 mL $17.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery Nyarai Cellars Viognier 2015, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2018 378414 13% D 750 mL $21.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Huff Estates Winery South Bay Chardonnay 2015, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2016 - 2018 88955 12.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Huff Estates Winery Cuvee Janine Rosé 2011, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2018 405035 12% D 750 mL $29.95 April 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Southbrook Vineyards Triomphe Cabernet Merlot 2014, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 172080 13% D 22 mL $22.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Game Changer Red 2014, Vineland, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2017 13% D 750 mL $14.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Southbrook Vineyards 101 Cabernet Franc 2013, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 621605314103 34 mL April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Southbrook Vineyards Wild Ferment Chardonnay 2013, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 621605493136 34 mL April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Estates Winery Game Changer White 2013, Vineland, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2016 13% D 750 mL $14.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Foreign Affair Winery The Conspiracy Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, pasta, mushroom risotto. Drink: 2014 - 2017 149237 12.8% XD 750 mL $19.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Foreign Affair Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: lamb Bolognese, grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks. Drink: 2014 - 2018 127324 14.4% D 750 mL $39.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run Just One Rose 2015, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Food pairings: raw and lightly cooked seafood, like raw seared tuna and also try it with goats’ cheeses.. Drink: 2016 - 2017 12.5% D 750 mL $17.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run Hungry Point Unoaked Chardonnay 2015, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Chardonnay food pairings: pasta with Alfredo sauce, pork tenderloin, lobster with melted butter, stuffed roasted chicken.. Drink: 2015 - 2018 401208 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 April 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Merlot 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Lots of seductive mocha and black fruit on the nose of this full-bodied BC Merlot. This wine was aged 50/50 in new and old oak barrels. Only 200 cases were produced of the 2013 vintage. It's still tightly coiled so give it some cellar time and decant 2 hours when you open it. Pair with pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2025 13.5% D 750 mL $33.00 Score: 91/100. April 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: This complex and seductive BC Cabernet brings up the rear, so to speak. There's a superbly long finish and excellent structure that the best of Cabernet delivers. This wine was aged in 65% new oak barrels for smoky, toasty richness wrapping itself around back fruit. Finishes with clove and sage and a strong desire to have more. Pair with rare meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: romano carbonara with fresh bucatini; baked eggplant parmigiana; flat iron steak with arugula, radicchio, and grana padano. Drink: 2016 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL $39.00 Score: 93/100. April 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Dilemma Chardonnay 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: There's a nervy tension in this BC Chardonnay, with this being the third leaf crop from the Margaret's Bench Vineyard, which sits high up on a bench and enjoys a cool climate and slow ripening. The vine roots need time to establish themselves and show their true character, so expect more excitement in the bottle from this block in the future. Why Dilemma? Owner Don Triggs discovered a small block of 18-year-old vines in the heart of this vineyard and he refused to pull them thinking old vines produce great wines. However, several experiments proved him wrong, so he relented and the vines were replanted. Only 180 cases were produced for the 2013 vintage. There's medium toast on the barrels. Racking is done by gravity for gentle handling, and only 60% of the wine underwent a malolactic fermentation to maintain freshness and balancing acidity. Therefore, this wine is a beautiful companion to a broader set of dishes and occasions. Chardonnay food pairings: west coast oysters rockefeller; truffle-salted and buttered Dutch over popcorn. Drink: 2014 - 2019 14% D 750 mL $36.00 Score: 93/100. April 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Unicus Gruner Veltliner 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A gorgeous and innovative BC Gruner Veltliner with grapes sourced from the winery's Margaret's Bench Vineyard. Unicus is Latin for one or unique. Only 500 cases were produced. Aromas of fresh and crisp green citrus (gruner means green). This BC winery practises the second pass for ripeness in picking just as they do in Austria, the home of Gruner. Grapes that aren't ripe on the first pass are left to hang and ripen further before they're picked. There's a singing and spriteliness at the back of the mouth and on the finish along with white pepper. Amazingly, the winemaker Pascal had 20 years of red winemaking exclusively between Bordeaux and BC winery Osoyoos before tackling this iconic white wine grape. This is his second year making white wines ... fast learner. Gruner Veltliner food pairings: cucumber gazpacho with shrimp and melon; asparagus flan with watercress; mahi-mahi with soy shiso ginger butter sauce; grilled chicken with dill tzatzki; grilled pork. Drink: 2015 - 2018 20622 14% XD 750 mL $156.00 Score: 90/100. April 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery R&D Meritage 2013, Okanagan Valley, Golden Mile Bench, British Columbia B.C. V.Q.A., Canada: This is a full-bodied blend of 80% Merlot along with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Aged for 6 months in two to four-year-old oak barrels. Aromas of campfire smoke and black fruit. R&D stands for research and development, a nod to the winery's dedication to experimentation in the vineyard and winery. Pictured on the label are owner Don Triggs and his brother. Meritage food pairings: roast chicken paprika with onion and herb stuffing, onion pie, roast bresse chicken. Drink: 2015 - 2019 445494 14% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. April 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave Spring Cellars Brut Blanc De Beckta Sparkling, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2019 12% XD 750 mL April 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Compendium 2015, Okanagan Valley British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2017 - 2020 14.5% D 750 mL $65.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Pinot Grigio 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2017 - 2019 83196 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

By Chadsey's Cairns Winery Power Take Off PTO Charmat Red Sparkling 2015, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2017 - 2020 11% XD 750 mL $24.20 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

By Chadsey's Cairns Winery Power Take Off PTO Sparkling Red 2017, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2019 - 2025 11% XD 750 mL $24.20 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

By Chadsey's Cairns Winery Power Take Off PTO Sparkling Red 2016, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2018 - 2025 11% XD 750 mL $25.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Foreign Affair Winery The Conspiracy Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, pasta, mushroom risotto. Drink: 2014 - 2017 149237 12.8% XD 750 mL $19.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Golden Mile Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: romano carbonara with fresh bucatini; baked eggplant parmigiana; flat iron steak with arugula, radicchio, and grana padano. Drink: 2016 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL $38.00 April 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandbanks Estate Winery Mouton Noir Marechal Foch 2013, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Marechal Foch food pairings: BBQ, red meats. Drink: 2014 - 2017 164087 12.5% D 750 mL $19.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Unicus Gruner Veltliner 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Gruner Veltliner food pairings: cucumber gazpacho with shrimp and melon; asparagus flan with watercress; mahi-mahi with soy shiso ginger butter sauce; grilled chicken with dill tzatzki; grilled pork. Drink: 2017 - 2019 20622 14% XD 750 mL $156.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave Spring Cellars Brut Blanc De Beckta Sparkling, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2019 12% XD 750 mL April 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave Spring Cellars Brut Blanc De Beckta Sparkling, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2019 12% XD 750 mL April 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave Spring Cellars Brut Blanc De Beckta Sparkling, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2019 12% XD 750 mL April 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave Spring Cellars Brut Blanc De Beckta Sparkling, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2019 12% XD 750 mL April 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Back 10 Cellars Blood, Sweat And Years Pinot Noir 2016, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Southbrook Vineyards Wild Ferment Chardonnay 2016, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 621605493136 34 mL April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Estates Winery Cabernet Franc 2015, Vineland, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2019 594127 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Pinot Grigio 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2016 - 2018 83196 12.2% XD 750 mL $13.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Estate Winery Cabernet Franc 2014, Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Franc food pairings: slow-cooked pork, roast turkey, beef and black bean stew, shepherd's pie. 444034 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: cedar plank grilled salmon, goat cheese and beet salad, mussels steamed in white wine sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2016 620724 12.7% XD 750 mL $15.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stratus Cabernet Franc 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2019 665034 13.5% XD 750 mL $38.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Northfield Cabernet Franc 2012, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Franc food pairings: steak au poivre. Drink: 2015 - 2018 149245 14% D 750 mL $35.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes Equuleus Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard 2014, St. David's Bench, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2018 319525 14% XD 750 mL $42.00 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Michel Gassier Buti Nages Rosé 2015, Costières De Nîmes, Rhône A.P., France Drink: 2016 - 2019 14% D 750 mL $15.95 April 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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