Dessert Wine
Lenz Moser Prestige Trockenbeerenauslese 2008, Prädikatswein, Burgenland, Austria: Sublime! Gorgeous dessert wine that’s complex and endless. Apricot and peach with that distinctive note that botrytis adds. Drink: 2011 - 2022 729657 11% S 375 mL $20.95 Score: 96/100. November 2011. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Open Vidal Icewine 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Superb! Apricot and honey with an underlay of rich butterscotch. Perfect with dessert or as dessert on its own. Half the price of most icewines. Drink: 2011 - 2018 149799 9.5% S 375 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Markus Molitor Haus Klosterberg Auslese Riesling 2007, Q.M.P., Mosel, Germany: Absolutely splendid! Apricot-peach sweetness, yet I don’t think of this as a dessert wine. Rather drink it with dishes that have some sweetness such as a glazed ham or sweet potatoes. Riesling food pairings: glazed ham, sweet potatoes. Drink: 2011 - 2018 249714 7.5% M 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tokaji Kereskedöház Tokaji Aszú 4 Puttonyos 2003, Hungary, Hungary: Vintages Wine Panel: Once regarded as an elixir of human life, Tokaji provides a truly exceptional end to a fine meal, or a unique treat in itself. This one shows a deep yellow gold in the glass, with aromas of honeycomb, marmalade, sponge toffee, dried mango, and apricot jam. Silky-smooth texture, medium body, and a very tasty finish. Rejuvenating. My note: Beautiful! Gorgeous combination of honeyed sweetness a nice tang on the finish. Ripples of sugared clementine through the middle. Food pairings: fruit pastries, foie gras. Drink: 2011 - 2018 73239 12% M 500 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. November 2011. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Other Wines/Drinks
Moniack The Lyme Bay Winery Mead, England, United Kingdom: Pure honey essence… I can hear the bubble bees on a sun-dappled day. Drink: 2011 - 2014 987263 13% S 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Red Wine
Mitolo Serpico Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Ultra delicious with full-bodied juiciness and generousness. Smooth and wonderful with incredible layers of hedonistic happiness. Terrific with hearty meat dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes. 659599 14.5% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 94/100. November 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Montes Alpha Syrah 2009, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: The 2009 vintage of Montes Alpha Syrah has not been reviewed, but the 2005 through 2008 vintages all received scores of 90 or more on Robert Parker Jr.’s site. Look for attractive aromas and flavours of blackberry, woodsmoke, pepper, blueberry and mineral. Dry and impactful, with solid tannins that will permit 1-2 years cellaring. Will also provide pleasure tonight. My note: Wrap this wine around me and never let me go. Plush black plums with some smoke and mocha-dark chocolate. Endlessly delicious. Syrah food pairings: back ribs, grilled steaks. Drink: 2011 - 2016 612 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Maipe Reserve Proviva Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Succulently ripe black fruit with a lovely dark chocolate note. Like falling into a room of black satin cushions blind-folded. Drink: 2011 - 2015 246116 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Agrelo Lamadrid Single Vineyard Roque Saenz Peña Malbec 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Pleasantly bitter black fruit, toasty oak and full-bodied weight. Malbec food pairings: grilled lamb chops, grilled steaks with a rich sauce. Drink: 2911 - 2014 234500 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Trapiche Fausto Orellana De Escobar Single Vineyard Malbec 2007, La Consulta, Mendoza, Argentina: Luxuriously layered and rich with a thick mouth-coating texture and weight of flavours. A hint of mint on the nose wrapped on ripe black fruit, then a coffeed-espresso finish. Such a wonderfully unusual wine. Decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2011 - 2020 178145 14.5% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 95/100. November 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Hedonist Walter Clappis Wine Co. Shiraz 2008, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Savory, meaty and juicy with luscious layers of black fruit. Mouth-watering and perfect for food. Bring it on. Drink: 2011 - 2016 90191 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 93/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cat Amongst The Pigeons Nine Lives Rosedale Wines Shiraz 2009, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Lip-smacking delicious with juicy purple and black plums that any cat would love. Full-bodied and ultra-smooth. Nice price. Drink: 2011 - 2015 93138 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stalking Horse Wineinc Shiraz 2008, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Smoky, oaky and tasty with black fruit. Smooth and full-bodied. Great price. Drink: 2011 - 2015 251215 15.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mollydooker The Boxer Sarah & Sparky Marquis Shiraz 2008, South Australia, Australia: Blackberry liqueur and black raspberry jam co-mingle. Hue, high alcohol but tasty and somehow, weirdly, balanced. Drink: 2011 - 2016 246595 16% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kilikanoon Wines Parable Shiraz 2007, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Smoky black oak and vanilla toast with black brooding plums and berries. Full-bodied and smooth. A winner of big Aussie fans. Drink: 2011 - 2015 59824 14.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Two Hands Wines Zippy's Block Single Vineyard Shiraz 2008, Roennfeldt Road, Maranga, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Over-the-top huge, but if you want “bang” for your buck, this is your wine. Huge, weighty and stupendous. Black as night fruit, oak and deep as the ocean. Get rid of the 10-pound bottle, it doesn’t help. Drink: 2011 - 2017 89516 16.7% D 750 mL $59.00 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stella Bella Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2008, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Juicy and full-bodied with boisterous big blackberry fruit. Drink: 2011 - 2015 47639 13.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henry’S Drive Pillar Box Red 2008, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Smoky cigar nose with savory black fruit. This is a fantastic wines for this price. Full-bodied and delicious. Drink: 2011 - 2015 685941 15% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Clairault Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Smoky like two cigars wrapping a wreath of smoke around black fruit. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2011 - 2015 246876 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Gold Series Merlot 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: Aromas of plum, coffee bean, sour cherry, spice box, and toast. Medium-full bodied with good fruit presence on the palate, and a complex interplay between bright fruit and the rich, spicy elements. Very poised. Give this wine 2-3 years in cellar, or enjoy it tonight. My note: Savoury and juicy with fleshy black plums and dark field berries. Full-bodied and smooth. I am liking this wine a lot. Decant 1-2 hours. Merlot food pairings: blackened steaks and grilled portobello mushrooms. Drink: 2011 - 2017 255901 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Flat Rock Gravity Pinot Noir 2009, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Seductive is the word. Satisfaction is the impression. This winery moves from strength to strength. Medium-bodied with a liquid silk texture. Fleshy cherries mingle with impertinent raspberries. A long, lingering finish. Oh yes. Drink: 2011 - 2016 1560 12.9% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. November 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vina Requingua Toro De Piedra Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Curicó Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: The Curicó Valley’s reputation for producing some of Chile’s best Cabernet Sauvignon is championed by this 2008 offering. Complex aromas including blackcurrant, smoke and raspberry. The palate is dry with a nice depth of flavour. Rich, dense and delicious berry fruit with accents of woodsmoke and supporting tannins. Finely balanced and culminating in a satisfying, medium-long finish. Cellar for 3+ years, or enjoy tonight. My note: Juicy, tasty and mouth-watering. Good structure in this cab which balances the fleshy black fruit. A smoky finish. Amazing price. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: gourmet burgers. Drink: 2011 - 2015 39362 14% D 750 mL $16.75 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Santa Carolina Reserva de Familia Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Maipo Valley, Chile: Delicious dependable and a deal. This is a terrific producer for those who want a wine that tastes twice as expensive as it costs. Full-bodied and generous with layers of black fruit. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled back ribs with a rich sauce. Drink: 2011 - 2016 408658 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Chocalán Reserva Syrah 2008, Maipo Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: Deep ruby in the glass, this wine is a veritable anthology of classic Syrah aromas and flavours with its complex oak, blackberry, plum, mulberry, tea, chocolate and vanilla. The palate is vibrant and fruit-filled, with lovely echoes of the vanilla and chocolate. Medium bodied and toasty with a medium-long finish, it will make a lovely choice tonight. My note: Full-bodied and tasty with delicious black fruit flavours. This is not a wine to analyze, just drink it. Syrah food pairings: grilled steak, braised beef dishes. Drink: 2011 - 2014 38513 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Terra Noble Gran Reserva Carmenère 2008, Maule Valley, Chile: Oh my goodness, this is incredible! The price has to by a typo. Juicy, full-bodied, smooth with fleshy black fruit. Try with osso buco or a slow-cooked roast with root vegetables. Buy a case for your parties. Carmenère food pairings: osso buco, slow-cooked roast with root vegetables. Drink: 2011 - 2016 957050 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Lafon Cuvée Classic Theron-Listrac, Récolt. Blend - Meritage 2006, A.C., Listrac, Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: From the lesser-known region of Listrac, this wine offers great value and a depth of aromas including cassis, plum, leather, spice and berry. The palate is dry, medium bodied and balanced with medium acidity, herbal notes, and accents of earth and cedar. The finish is crisp and very satisfying. Cellar this for another 2-3 years, or enjoy it tonight. My note: A rustic, acidic wine with pleasing cedar and black wild cherry notes. Medium- to full-bodied and smooth. Blend - Meritage food pairings: veal,lamb chops. Drink: 2011 - 2013 165399 13% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Gravette De Certan Meritage 2008, A.C., Pomerol,Bordeaux 2Nd Wine Of Vieux Château Certan, France: Vintages Wine Panel: A very pretty ’08 Merlot-based Pomerol that is exquisitely put together. Aromas suggest chocolate cherry, raspberry, woodsmoke and mocha. Quite dry, yet also very flavourful, ripe and fleshy. It’s all brought perfectly into line by ripe tannins and just-right acidity, giving a nice lift to the finish. Enjoy it, decanted, or cellar it for 3-5+ years. My note: Well now, this is mighty tasty! Mouth-watering juiciness yet that classic Bordeaux structure. Black fruit and smoke with a great finish. Decant 2 hours. Meritage food pairings: roast leg of lamb. Drink: 2012 - 2018 187278 13% XD 750 mL $49.00 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Seguin Meritage 2008, A.C., Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France: Black, brooding and smoky like the wines typical of this region within Bordeaux. Blackberries and black plums. Full-bodied and rich. Drink: 2012 - 2019 245837 14.1% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château La Cheze Priou-Rontein, Prop. Meritage 2005, A.C., Premières Côtes De Bordeaux, France: Rustic and mouth-watering with straight-up pleasure. Black fruit there but it doesn’t lead, rather than smoke and earth. Austere and stately. Drink: 2011 - 2015 244038 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Rozier Grand Cru Jean-Bernard Saby & Fils, Vitic. Meritage 2008, A.C., Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France: The wine is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Pleasant bitter bite and austerity. Not fleshy but long and elegant with a smoky finish. Drink: 2011 - 2014 24539 13.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 88/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Le Caillou Giraud-Bélivier, Prop. Meritage 1998, A.C., Pomerol, Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Château Le Caillou is a tiny 7-hectare property that is principally located atop the gravelly Pomerol plateau. Producing a mere 3,000 cases a year, Château Le Caillou is known for creating richly textured wines featuring well-integrated tannins. The aromas and flavours are of ripe plum, fruitcake, and black cherries, complemented by n cedar and spice. Hailing from the Right Bank’s last great vintage of the 1990s, this Pomerol is an exceptional value. Enjoy it tonight. My note: Black pepper and smoke on the nose followed by jubilantly juicy blackberries and black cherry. This is a mature wine ready to drink now, so don’t hold it too long. Meritage food pairings: veal tenderloin. Drink: 2006 - 2013 45682 12.5% D 750 mL $55.75 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Beau-Site Cru Bourgeois Supérieur Meritage 2004, A.C., Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine is loaded with aromas of cassis, plum, cedar, new leather and anise. Dry with very good fruit replays, and held together beautifully by ripe tannins. Maturing in the best sense of the word, but will easily reward another 5+ years in a cellar if you wish. Otherwise, open it tonight and enjoy it, decanted. My note: Very tasty though over-priced by $10. Tart cherries and smoke with a juicy, full-bodied nature. Decant 2 hours. Meritage food pairings: grilled steaks, roast beef. Drink: 2012 - 2017 967844 12.5% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Malescot St. Exupery 3E Cru Meritage 2008, A.C., Margaux, Bordeaux, France: Exotic black fruit, violets and smoke. Superb craftsmanship that needs some time in the cellar, and even then you should decant 1-2 hours. Full-bodied and luxurious. Drink: 2012 - 2018 136630 13% XD 750 mL $64.00 Score: 94/100. November 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
René Bouvier La Justice Gevrey-Chambertin Pinot Noir 2008, A.C., Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Attractive berry and dark fruit with a lifted floral note on the nose. The palate is soft, approachable and dry, and offers a nice depth of dark fruit, integrated wood and floral tones, with a touch of sweetness to the fruit in the centre. A very nice length. Cellar this for 3+ years or enjoy it tonight. My note: Plush and generous with layers of dark cherry pleasure. Smoky and earthy with a terrific come-back-to-me yearning. Pinot Noir food pairings: salmon steaks, roast duck. Drink: 2011 - 2018 241075 13.3% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Fongaban Meritage 2006, A.C., Côtes De Castillon, France: Incredible for the price! Full-bodied and juicy with black fruit and smoke. Lip-smacking delicious layers of fleshy ripe blackberries. Top me up! Drink: 2011 - 2015 138735 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Roche De Bellene Volnay Les Pitures 1Er Cru Pinot Noir 2008, A.C., Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Produced by Nicolas Potel, the wines of Roche de Bellene are understandably impressive on all counts. Great depth and complexity to the nose, which echoes deliciously throughout the palate. Extremely tasty with lots of big fruit and gritty tannins, this is a well-structured and balanced wine. My note: Liquid black silk with terrific acidity and long lines in the finish. Medium-bodied and smooth. Tart black cherries and smoke. Pinot Noir food pairings: roast duck. Drink: 2011 - 2018 241083 12.9% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Delas Frères Saint-Esprit 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône, France: Stunning for the price! Cedar and wild cherries and black raspberries. Earthy and full-bodied with a juicy mouth-watering character. Drink: 2011 - 2015 729962 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ferraton Père & Fils La Matinière Crozes-Hermitage Syrah Shiraz 2009, A.C., Rhône, France: Fleshy black cherries in a cedar box jump out of the glass. This wine is so delicious! Mouth-watering on the palate with more juicy dark red berries. Full-bodied. Decant 1-2 hours. Amazing price. Drink: 2011 - 2016 127712 13% XD 750 mL $28.25 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
E. Guigal 2007, A.C., Rhône, France: A good grip with tasty black raspberries and cigar box notes. Full-bodied and generous. This is incredibly superb craftsmanship for this price point. Drink: 2011 - 2020 331900 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chusclan Les Genêts Vign. Laudun Chusclan 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: Incredibly delicious for this price! Rich, ripe dark fruit with a nza.ice weave of smoke throughout. Perfect for potluck, and meat lovers’ pizza. Food pairings: pizza. Drink: 2011 - 2018 245399 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Le Vieux Donjon Michel Lucien, Prop.-Récolt. 2009, A.C.,Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Superb, luxurious, rich liquid velvet. Encase yourself in this wine and we’ll never see you again. Gorgeously ripe blackberries, plums and black raspberry liqueur. This one will keep a long time in the cellar … if you can wait. Worth laying down a case for a child or grandchild born in 2009. Drink: 2012 - 2025 700922 14% XD 750 mL $80.00 Score: 93/100. November 2011. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château De Haute-Serre Georges Vigouroux, Prop.-Récolt. Malbec 2008, A.C., Cahors, Southwest, France: Dark and full-bodied with black fruit and a lifted mid-palate of gorgeously ripe flavours and mouth-watering juiciness. Drink: 2011 - 2017 693952 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Agriverde Riseis Caldari Di Ortona Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2008, D.O.C., Abruzzo, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: Earthy aromas buoyed up by plum and ripe black-fruit notes. The palate is soft and supple, with satisfying echoes of the nose, and fresh raspberry mid-palate. Medium bodied with well-balanced acidity and tannins. My note: Lovely juicy, full-bodied wine with black fruit, smoke and some dark spices. Perfect winter warmer. Terrific price. Montepulciano D'abruzzo food pairings: grilled lamb, gourmet sausages, richly sauced gourmet meat pizza. Drink: 2011 - 2014 134478 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gemma Colarej Barolo Nebbiolo (Barolo, Barbaresio) 2006, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Classic violets and black tar (stay with me) black plums and tart blackberries. Nothing but Barolo delivers this exotic bouquet. Drink: 2012 - 2018 232447 14.1% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Poderi Colla Bussia Dardi Le Rose Barolo Nebbiolo (Barolo, Barbaresio) 2006, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Holy tannins Batman! If you can age this one, you’ll be fine. This is a turbo-charged, black rocket of a wine. Violets, tar and black fruit await your curious senses. Decant 17 hours… okay 2. Drink: 2013 - 2020 596890 14.5% XD 750 mL $52.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sampietrana Vigna Delle Monache Riserva Salice Salentino 2006, D.O.C., Puglia, Italy: Black and smoky from toasty oak with blackberry notes poking through. Full-bodied and generous, a dependably delicious wine year after year. Drink: 2011 - 2014 247908 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tenuta San Guido Guidalberto Guidalberto Tenuta San Guido Toscana i.g.t. 2009, I.G.T., Tuscany, Italy: This wine is made by the coveted Sassicaia winery. Juicy and savoury with smoky black fruit and full-bodied richness. Beautifully structured with a long finish. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese grapes. Drink: 2012 - 2018 72439 14% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ruffino Modus 2007, I.G.T., Tuscany, Italy: Big, black and brooding with full-on toasty oak, that gives a delicious smoky weave throughout this wine. Fleshy dark fruit wrap around of core of dark spice hedonism. Decant 2 hours. Bring it on! Drink: 2011 - 2018 912956 13.5% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 93/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Castello di Querceto Riserva Chianti Classico 2007, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Classic chianti with a juicy, mouth-watering, full-bodied character. Great acidity with dark red cherries. Drink: 2011 - 2015 650754 13% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ornellaia Le Serre Nuove Dell'ornellaia 2009, D.O.C., Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy: Yeah baby! Smoky espresso nose with seductive black fruit. Full-bodied yet slippery smooth. Classically structured and a cellar keeper. Drink: 2012 - 2018 606194 12.5% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Podere L’Aja Chianti Classico 2007, D.O.C.G., Italy: Double yum! Juicy and full-bodied with layer after layer of black cherry delight. Perfect for pasta night. A must for a Tuscan-inspired meal that includes eggplant, and tomato sauce-based pasta. Chianti Classico food pairings: eggplant, tomato sauce-based pasta. Drink: 2011 - 2017 234948 14.7% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Capanna Brunello Di Montalcino 2006, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Dried tobacco brightened by tart black cherries and raspberries. A spice-box of sensory fun with full-bodied weight and a savoury long smoky finish. Don’t rob the cradle: put it in your cellar. Decants 2 hours. Drink: 2013 - 2020 651588 15% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 92/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Villa Girardi Bure Alto Ripasso Classico Superiore Valpolicella 2009, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: The Ripasso technique involves taking leftover pomace from the production of Amarone and adding it to simple Valpolicella to kick-start a second fermentation; this method serves to boost the alcohol, body and tannins as well as add layers of complexity to the overall wine. My note: Love it! Savory, meaty, juicy: a wine to chew on with deep satisfaction. Cedar, black cherry layers float happily on full-bodied weight. Valpolicella food pairings: white meat, red meat, game, aged cheeses. Drink: 2011 - 2017 161844 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Framingham Pinot Noir 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Cherry-berry vibrancy with a nice underlay of toasty oak. Great mouth-watering acidity for food. Drink: 2011 - 2016 699322 14% D 750 mL $30.75 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Quinta De Cabriz Seleccionada Colheita 2008, D.O.C., Dão, Portugal: Smoky with black fruit. Full-bodied and delicious. Perfect for parties. Drink: 2011 - 2015 247973 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bodegas De Los Rios Prieto Prios Maximus Roble Tempranillo 2009, D.O., Ribera Del Duero, Pesquera De Duero, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine received a score of 90 in the 2011 Peñin Guide to Spanish Wine. Grown in the respected Pesquera area, and aged almost 6 months in American oak and 6 months in bottle before release, this wine offers up notes of plum, baked prunes, leather, earth, spice and blueberry. The palate offers more spice, blueberry and earth with a touch of sweet vanilla adding complexity. Medium bodied and finely balanced, with a nice savoury finish. This wine will enhance meals. My note: Delicious with a smoky-espresso nose and dark fruit on the palate. Full-bodied and mouth-watering. Terrific price. Tempranillo food pairings: beef stew, grilled lamb. Drink: 2011 - 2014 103432 15.2% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. November 2011. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Señorío De P. Peciña Reserva Bodegas Hermanos Peciña 2001, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine exceeds even Gran Reserva ageing requirements, but was bottled only as a Reserva. This illustrates the highest standards this house practices. A mature wine that is drinking beautifully right now. Look for aromas and flavours of blackberry crème, pipe tobacco, spice cupboard and dried red fruit. It can be aged for another year or two, but why bother when it’s this good now? The Peñin Guide to Spanish Wine 2010 gave this wine a score of 90. My note: Leather, smoke and memories of a dusty walk in Spain. The fruit is a flesh memory only, but the bones remember to their marrow. Smooth and smoky, for conversations that are comfortable with long silences. Drink: 2008 - 2013 279058 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Belle Glos Meiomi Pinot Noir 2009, Sonoma Valley, Monterey County, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: Sweet dark cherry with dark chocolate-mocha on the nose. Supple, smooth and medium-bodied. Luscious. Drink: 2011 - 2017 130138 14.5% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Four Vines Maverick Zinfandel 2008, Amador County, California, United States: Chocolate dipped blueberries with full-bodied weight and smooth texture. Ultra BBQ wine. Drink: 2011 - 2015 249300 14.9% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Reininger Ash Hollow Vineyard Syrah 2006, Walla Walla Valley, Washington, United States: Chocolate mocha notes with black ripe plums and berries. Smooth and full-bodied. Drink: 2011 - 2015 233478 14.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sparkling Wine
13th Street Cuvée 13 Rosé, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Very pretty, dry and toasty. Lovely notes of field raspberries. One of Canada’s best bubblies. A blend of pinot noir, chardonnay and a dash of syrah. Drink: 2011 - 2015 147504 12.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Godmé Père & Fils Brut Réserve, A.C., Champagne, France: Toasty great! Aromas of fresh baked bread and green apples. Superbly made at a reasonable price for Champagne. Drink: 2011 - 2015 243881 12.5% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 94/100. November 2011. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Moët & Chandon Brut Grand Vintage Champagne 2002, Champagne A.C., France: Superb, toasty and robust with assertive notes of green apple and baked bread. Drink: 2011 - 2014 69773 12.5% XD 750 mL $81.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine De Vaugondy Brut Vouvray Methode Traditionnelle, Perdriaux Chenin Blanc, A.C., Loire, France: Full-bodied, robust dry bubbly. Good value with straight forward pleasure. Great price. Drink: 2011 - 2013 154567 12% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. November 2011. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
White Wine
Luigi Bosca Reserva Chardonnay 2010, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Tasty and balanced with appealing green apple and lemon notes and just the right amount of toasty oak. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2011 - 2015 575985 14.2% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Cobos Felino Chardonnay 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: This winery is co-owned by the great California producer Paul Hobbs. Attractive yellow-straw colour with a green tinge. Aromas suggest ripe pear, apple-cinnamon, buttered toast and coconut. Dry, crisply fruity with a gentle toastiness (only 20% of the juice receives oak contact). The bright acids ably surround the fruit tones. This nicely textured wine would be a good match for a vast array of other seafood dishes. My note: Nicely done! Good balance with pleasant green apple and toasted almond finish. Full-bodied and luscious. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, seafood. Drink: 2011 - 2015 191915 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Closson Chase Beamsville Bench Chardonnay 2008, V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Canada’s best Chardonnay from wine wizard Deborah Paskus. Rich, luxurious, opulent with honeyed goodness and apricot preserves. Drink: 2011 - 2016 230904 13.1% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. November 2011. Top Rated White White Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hidden Bench Winery Chardonnay 2009, V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Terrific acidity and richness, like Ginger and Fred. Lovely green apple brightness hemmed in with toast almonds. Full-bodied and satisfying. Drink: 2011 - 2015 68817 13% XD 750 mL $32.00 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Chardonnay 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Twenty Mile Bench, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: A lively, expertly crafted Chardonnay. Notes of coconut, butterscotch, toast, pear preserves, grapefruit and yellow plum. Dry, medium bodied, crisp and elegant with racy acidity. The oak adds lovely accents to the tangy fruit. Layered, lingering finish. It will also reward 2-4 years in a cellar. My note: Something inside me melts every time I taste this wine, a slow dissolving to sensory bliss. Full-bodied, opulent, buttery and peach-apricot aromas. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, grilled tuna steaks. Drink: 2011 - 2016 33936 13.5% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. November 2011. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tawse Winery Inc. Chardonnay 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Complex almond and baking spice nose followed by a sunburst of green apple and white peach. Superb! Drink: 2011 - 2016 253518 13% XD 375 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Casas del Bosque Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Grassy-good with refreshing herbals aromas. Oak-free and pure. Drink: 2011 - 2013 974717 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cave Hunawihr Kuhlmann Platz Pinot Gris 2008, A.C., Alsace, France: Gold Medal winner at the 2010 Concours Général Agricole in Paris. Vintages Wine Panel: Peach, apple, orange peel, honeycomb and floral aromas greet the nose here. The palate follows suit in fine style. Lovely ripe pear, honeycomb, cantaloupe and peach notes abound in this crisp and balanced Pinot Gris. Very refreshing. Enjoy this as a sipping wine. My note: Ultra-dry yet it has appealing peach-apricot notes. Lovely as an aperitif or companion to many dishes. Pinot Gris food pairings: rich cheese. Drink: 2011 - 2014 224204 13.7% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaines Schlumberger Kessler Grand Cru Riesling 2007, A.C., Alsace, France: A juicy, peach-ripe Riesling with a lovely light- to medium body. Terrific with seafood and salads. Riesling food pairings: seafood, salad. Drink: 2011 - 2015 61176 13% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 89/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Myrat 2E Cru Meritage 2007, Bordeaux, France: Love it! The Platonic ideal of ripe pear on the edge of great rot. Live held in the balance between sensory pleasure centres. Drink: 2011 - 2020 100818 13% S 375 mL $28.00 Score: 93/100. November 2011. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bouchard Pere & Fils Beaune Clos Landry 1Er Cru Chardonnay 2008, A.C., Château De Beaune, Burgundy, France: Great finesse and length: an aristocratic Chardonnay with lovely green apple vibrancy and toasted almond. Perfectly balanced. Drink: 2011 - 2018 124651 13% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kumeu River Wines Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay 2008, Auckland, North Island, New Zealand: Spectacular! Loving this all the way to the last drop. Mouth-watering yet lusciously rich. Toasted almond finish. Perfect. Drink: 2011 - 2016 204032 13.5% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 95/100. November 2011. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spy Valley Wine Gewurztraminer 2010, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Wonderfully floral with a pleasantly bitter bite on the finish. Try with Asian takeout Gewurztraminer food pairings: Asian dishes. Drink: 2011 - 2014 32870 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Thornbury Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Lovely balance and not too grassy. Chives, lime and lemon sunlight. Liquid refreshment and very food friendly. Not oak. Drink: 2011 - 2013 734798 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. November 2011. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Far Niente Estate Chardonnay 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Lovely balance with green apple and toasted almond. Nice acidity and a mouth-filling richness on the mid-palate. Drink: 2011 - 2016 539130 14% XD 750 mL $105.00 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Robert Mondavi Winery Fumé Blanc 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: The winery gets the fruit for this wine from two of their stellar vineyards: Wapoo Hill and To Kalon. They add 10% Semillon to round out the wine. Sixty percent of the wine is barrel fermented. All wines are then aged, sur lie, in French oak. My note: Juicy and refreshing with vibrant, clean lemon and lime fruit. Very zippy: perfect for so many dishes. Drink: 2011 - 2015 221887 13.9% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Maison Roche De Bellene Vieilles Vignes Chassagne-Montrachet Chardonnay 2008, A.C., Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This exciting, well-crafted wine is an ideal choice for any lover of white Burgundy. Opens with complex, lively aromas of oatmeal, lemon, mineral, coconut, hazelnut, cardamom, pear and yellow plum. Dry, medium-full bodied, crisp and racy thanks to vibrant acidity. The fruit core is nicely accented by the refined oak. Balanced and poised, with a long finish. My note: I smelled this wine and had to sigh and close my eyes. This is classic French Chardonnay: rich and round with ripe pear, peach and some green apple brightness all wrapped in a gorgeous blanket of toasted hazelnuts and almonds. Chardonnay food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast chicken, quail. Drink: 2011 - 2018 241158 12.2% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 96/100. November 2011. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Cobos Chardonnay 2014, Mendoza, Argentina: Nicely done! Good balance with pleasant green apple and toasted almond finish. Full-bodied and luscious. Pair with crab cakes. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, seafood. Drink: 2011 - 2015 191915 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. November 2011. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart