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| Spirits - September 3 Release |
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| Irish Whiskey |
| 657247 JOHN LOCKE & CO. KILBEGGAN IRISH WHISKEY $ 32.95 |
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Ireland 700 mL
(Cooley Distillery) |
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| Kilbeggan ('little church', in Gaelic) Whiskey, first appeared in the mid-18th century. After almost two centuries of popular enjoyment, the Locke company hit on hard times and the stills fell silent in the 1950s. In 1994, Cooley Distillery acquired rights to the Locke name and relaunched the Kilbeggan brand. |
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| Brandy |
| 656298 KWV 10 YEAR OLD BRANDY $ 39.95 |
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South Africa 750 mL |
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| KWV, South Africa's largest producer of wines and spirits, is justly proud of this 10-year-old brandy. In 2003 and 2004, it won back-to-back Gold Medals at the International Wine & Spirits Competition in London, England. It has also been named Best Brandy in the World at London's International Spirits Challenge in 2000 and 2002. |
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| Fortified Wine - September 3 Release |
| Port |
| 660159 QUINTA DE VENTOZELO LBV PORT 1998 $ 23.95 |
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Late Bottled Vintage (S) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: This LBV is made in a more traditional style, meaning that it can be cellared 2-4 years, it has not been filtered and may need decanting. Aromas are very attractive, recalling chocolate, plum and cherry drops. Sweet with a good tannin grip. Medium-bodied with a lingering finish. (VINTAGES panel, Sept. 2004) |
Wine by Country - September 3 Release
| Canada - Ontario |
| 664581 ROYAL DE MARIA VIDAL ICEWINE 2004 $ 29.95 |
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VQA Niagara Peninsula (S) 200 mL |
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| Royal De Maria Wines is unique in that it is the only winery in Niagara to produce nothing but Icewine. After winning over 50 gold medals in international competitions and countless other awards, they have earned the right to proclaim themselves 'Canada's Icewine Specialists'. They currently produce over a dozen different varieties of Icewine including this classic, scrumptious Vidal. This 200 mL size is perfect for capping off a romantic dinner for two. |
| Ontario |
| 333260 CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES CUVEE D'ANDRÉE ROSÉ 2004 $ 12.95 |
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VQA Niagara Peninsula (D) 750 mL |
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| The father and son winemaking team of Paul Sr. and Pierre-Jean Bosc, created this delightful rosé as a tribute to winery matriarch Madame Andrée Bosc. A blend of Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, this fresh, crisp, dry wine is a wonderful companion to a fruit and cheese platter or as one last summer sipper. |
| California |
| 962886 LA CREMA CHARDONNAY 2003 $ 29.95 |
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| 728352 LA CREMA CHARDONNAY 2003 $ 14.95 |
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Sonoma Coast (D) 375 mL |
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| This lightly oaked Chardonnay, with its crisp apple and citrus fruit characteristics, is testament to La Crema's dedication to Burgundian style. This wine is far more reminiscent of a delicate Côtes de Beaune than the powerhouse California Chardonnays we often expect. An excellent match for seafood. |
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| California – White Wine |
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| 708305 NIEBAUM-COPPOLA 'DIAMOND' CHARDONNAY 2003 $ 27.95 |
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California (D) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Medium yellow straw in colour with a bounty of aromas including apple, banana, coconut and a touch of cinnamon. There's a good balance of fruit and oak on the palate as well as a hint of spice. Full-bodied with a long finish that ends with a kiss of vanilla. (D. Churchill/G. MacDonald, VINTAGES, July 2005) |
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| California – Red Wine |
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| 521021 NIEBAUM-COPPOLA 'DIAMOND' CLARET 2003 $ 29.95 |
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California (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: This Bordeaux-style blend has intriguing aromas of cassis, leather, menthol and walnut shell. The palate is quite tangy, with good fruit and nicely integrated tannins. It's medium full-bodied with a medium long, well-balanced finish. It can be enjoyed now with rare roast beef but will keep nicely for 2-5 years in cellar. (D. Churchill/G. MacDonald, Vintages, July 2005) |
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| 595686 NIEBAUM-COPPOLA 'DIAMOND' MERLOT 2003 $ 29.95 |
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California (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: This wine shows great potential with its complex aromas of raspberry jam, vanilla, chocolate and smoke. There are subtle replays of these aromas on the palate but powerful, dry, tannins currently dominate it. This medium full-bodied wine has good weight, a very long finish and would be well worth cellaring for 4+ years. (D. Churchill/G. MacDonald, Vintages, July 2005) |
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| California |
| 677427 OPUS ONE 2001 $ 259.95 |
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Napa Valley (XD) 750 mL |
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Opus One became an instant legend just over twenty years ago when icons Robert Mondavi and Baron Phillippe de Rothschild simultaneously released the phenomenal 1979 and 1980 vintages. The 2001 is the latest masterwork.
Tasting note: Deep ruby-red. Aromas of dark berries, spice cake, beefsteak tomato and meat. Suave, smooth, lush and mouthfilling, with sweetly oaky flavors of dark berries, mocha, smoke and game. Generous, pliant wine, finishing with chewy but ripe tannins and lingering sweetness. A return to form after a few difficult vintages for this bottling. Score - 91. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Jan./Feb. 2005) |
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| 677567 FAMIGLIA BIANCHI CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2002 $ 15.95 |
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Mendoza (XD) 750 mL
(Bodegas Valentin Bianchi) |
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| Tasting note: The lush cassis and raspberry fruit is surrounded by cocoa, spice and toast notes. The fruit really pumps through the finish, offset by a mineral note that adds further dimension. Elegant and well put together. Drink now through 2008. Score - 91. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 2004) |
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| 640888 SANTA CAROLINA 'BARRICA SELECTION' CARMENERE 2003 $ 14.95 |
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Rapel Valley (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Bright ruby hue. Warm aromas of tobacco, earth, smoke and pepper place the fruit in the background. Soft, creamy flavors of plum, licorice and dried tobacco. Lots of licorice in the long finish. Score - 89. (The Wine News, April/May 2005) |
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| 651513 TERRAMATER SHIRAZ/CABERNET 2002 $ 11.95 |
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Maipo Valley (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Cassis nose, rich, velvety, super-ripe. Perfect reflections of nose. Very opulent pure fruit. Quite delicious fine structure. Fruit on the finish. Score - **** (out of 5). (Decanter, June 2004) |
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| 987768 GRANT BURGE 'ZERK' SEMILLON 2004 $ 16.95 |
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Barossa Valley, South Australia (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Ripe Barossa style with powerful orange/citrus characters on the slightly developed nose. Attractive, flavoursome palate - fresh and clean with nice wood treatment. One for the cellar. Score - **** 1/2 (out of 5). (Winestate, March/April 2005) |
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| 562777 STONEHAVEN CHARDONNAY 2004 $ 12.95 |
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'South Eastern', Australia (D) 750 mL |
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| Stonehaven's website (www.stonehavenwines.com) offers an array of wine and food pairings as well as some select recipes including one for herbed tuna steaks with tomato, avocado and red onion salad that would match well with this appealingly light Chardonnay. |
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| 657346 TYRRELL'S CHARDONNAY RESERVE 2003 $ 19.95 |
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Hunter Valley, New South Wales (XD) 750 mL |
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Tyrell's Chief Winemaker Andrew Spinaze was honoured as 2004 Winemaker of the Year by Qantas/Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine.
Tasting note: The nose shows well-restrained oak that mainfests itself as musk, or sandalwood. It has a rich, oily texture - a little slippery, but nice - and powerful, unusual fruit. Passionfruit, maybe? A nice, unexpected style of Chard. Score - 88. (Wine Enthusiast, July 2004) |
| 595439 'COCKFIGHTER'S GHOST' SHIRAZ 2002 $ 22.95 |
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McLaren Vale, South Australia (XD) 750 mL
(Poole's Rock Wines) |
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| Tasting note: The shiraz is a cracker of a wine, displaying rich, spicy, full-bodied flavours. Little wonder it picked up a Gold Medal at 2003 Royal Melbourne Wine Show and a Blue-Gold gong at the recent Sydney International Wine Show. (John Fordham, The Sunday Telegraph, May 29, 2005) |
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| 915660 CRANEFORD GRENACHE 2004 $ 28.95 |
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Barossa Valley, South Australia (XD) 750 mL |
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| Winemakers in Barossa have embraced the similarities between their region and France's Rhône Valley. Their efforts are being focused on the typical Rhône grapes, such as this Grenache, but with a distinctly Australian flare. Grenache has made a comeback in recent years, and the depth of flavour will impress those looking for an alternative to jammy fruit bombs. A versatile food wine, it is well-suited to barbecued meats. |
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| 595405 HUGH HAMILTON 'THE RASCAL' SHIRAZ 2003 $ 24.95 |
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McLaren Vale, South Australia (XD) 750 mL |
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Fifth generation winemaker Hugh Hamilton is proud of his reputation as 'the black sheep' of the family. He's a rule breaker who knows what he wants from his wines and his larger-than-life personality is reflected in his larger-than-life wines.
Tasting note: . as playful on the palate as the name suggests. This is Shiraz, Aussie style. This is a beautifully constructed wine with loads of stuff going on in the glass. Aromas of bacon fat, black olives and black licorice charm the senses while rich flavors of cassis, blackberries and olives please the palate. Hints of cocoa on the lush finish bring it all together. (Scott Greenberg, www.vineguy.com, March 6, 2005) |
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| 606624 RING-BOLT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2002 $ 19.95 |
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Margaret River, Western Australia (XD) 750 mL |
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| The previous vintage of Ring-bolt was a huge hit when we released it as a Vintages Food & Drink Discovery product in Nov. 2004. Now, the equally delicious 2002 is upon us. Look for red and black currant aromas and flavours plus hints of spice and tobacco. Enjoy with slightly spicy beef dishes. |
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| 595355 SARACEN ESTATES SHIRAZ 2001 $ 26.95 |
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Margaret River, Western Australia (XD) 750 mL |
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Saracen takes its name from the pre-Islamic nomadic people of the Syrian-Arabian deserts who were once one of the three great nations of the world. This 2001 vintage is the first Shiraz released by this producer. The grapes were sourced from mature vineyards in the heart of the thriving Margaret River Region; expect loads of luscious black fruit and spice.
Food match: roast beef, grilled lamb or blue cheese. |
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| 681098 STONEHAVEN SHIRAZ 2004 $ 12.95 |
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'South Eastern', Australia (XD) 750 mL |
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| Stonehaven was the first settlement in the Limestone Coast region of South Australia. This namesake winery was opened in 1998 and is located just south of the town of Padthaway, the 'gateway' to the region. Consistently rated a best buy year after year, with its intense cherry and black pepper characteristics, this Shiraz is best enjoyed with lamb or chicken satay in a coconut and peanut sauce. |
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| 359513 CLOUDY BAY CHARDONNAY 2003 $ 33.95 |
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Marlborough, South Island (XD) 750 mL |
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| Cloudy Bay's is one of New Zealand's top producers and their Sauvignon Blanc is regarded by many as one of the best in the world. A warm autumn in 2003 enabled Cloudy Bay to produce this intensely flavoured, fruit-focused Chardonnay. |
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| 957670 SEIFRIED ESTATE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2004 $ 16.95 |
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Nelson, South Island (XD) 750 mL |
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| Nelson-based Seifried Estate is possibly the best New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc producer not in Marlborough. They return with their much anticipated 2004 vintage featuring a newly designed label. Stylistically, the family-owned Seifried winery creates wines that are halfway between the legendary aggressive style and the more recent elegant interpretation. As a result, their Sauvignon is excellent as a sipper and an ideal partner with seafood, such as calamari, bivalves and even spicy shrimp dishes. |
| 656579 'STONELEIGH' PINOT NOIR 2001 $ 22.95 |
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Marlborough, South Island (XD) 750 mL |
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| It's rare to find a quality Pinot Noir like this one at such an affordable price. In its youth this wine won a gold medal at the 2002 Intervin competition. Now fairly mature, it has opened up completely and fulfills its early promise. For those new to the variety, this is an excellent introduction to Pinot Noir's distinguishing characteristics of cherry, spice and earth. Enjoy it with roast duck or veal. |
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| 701540 BOUCHARD FINLAYSON SAUVIGNON BLANC 2004 $ 15.95 |
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WO Walker Bay (XD) 750 mL |
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Walker Bay is a maritime wine region at Africa's southern tip. Bouchard Finlayson, nestled away within its Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven on Earth) Valley, has garnered worldwide recognition largely because of winemaker Peter Finlayson's passion and commitment to quality.
Tasting note: Louder, riper style; proffers pungent herbaceous whiffs, riveting flavour cut by rapier dry finish. (Dave Swingler, John Platter South African Wines 2005) |
| 677468 'RAILROAD RED' SHIRAZ/CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003 $ 12.95 |
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WO Western Cape (XD) 750 mL
(Graham Beck Wines) |
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This brilliant overachiever won a Silver Medal at the 2004 International Wine Challenge in London, England.
Tasting note: This beauty has the capacity to gain complexity in coming years. A cocktail of eucalyptus, smoky ripe blackcurrants and marmite. Savoury and medium-bodied, with smooth tannins and a lingering finish. (Judges panel, International Wine Challenge, May 2004) |
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| 595561 DE KRANS 'RED STONE' RESERVE 2004 $ 31.95 |
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WO Calitzdorp (XD) 750 mL |
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| This is the second vintage of De Krans' new flagship wine which is named for the breathtaking red stone hills near Calitzdorp. Until recently, De Krans had been known mainly for its impressive fortified wines. They have now struck out in a slightly different direction with this dry blend of 70% Touriga Nacional and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. |
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| 652602 GUARDIAN PEAK SHIRAZ 2003 $ 12.95 |
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WO Stellenbosch (XD) 750 mL |
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Guardian Peak is a remarkable 'reds only' winery owned by Rust en Vrede Estate and managed by the same stellar winemaking team.
Tasting note: Expressive, ripe fusion meat/spice/smoke; broad generous flavours satisfyingly controlled by freshness, grip; subtle oaking. Enjoyable without being over-complicated. (Angela Lloyd, John Platter South African Wines 2005) |
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| 651448 KEN FORRESTER 'FAMILY RESERVE' SHIRAZ 2001 $ 19.95 |
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WO Stellenbosch (XD) 750 mL |
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The 2001 vintage is the first Shiraz from Forrester's.
Tasting note: Initially understated, 01 now slowly opening up; varietally true whiffs smoke, meat; black-fruit opulence underscored by grippy; youthful tannins. Should develop with interest. (Christine Rudman, John Platter South African Wines 2004) |
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| 652669 MIDDELVLEI SHIRAZ 2000 $ 16.95 |
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WO Stellenbosch (XD) 750 mL |
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This powerhouse red won gold medals at the 2003 International Wine & Spirit Competition in the U.K. and the 2003 Veritas Awards in its native South Africa.
Tasting note: Powerfully built, generous, still spicey, ripely rich and savoury. (Tim James, John Platter South African Wines 2004) |
| 999821 MULDERBOSCH CABERNET SAUVIGNON ROSÉ 2004 $ 12.95 |
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WO Stellenbosch (D) 750 mL |
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Hold on to summer beyond the Labour Day weekend with this wonderful rosé. A perennial favourite of Vintages' customers, it's also a terrific value and so beautifully packaged it will keep you in the pink.
Tasting note: Pink-orange color. Strawberry, mint and a whiff of licorice on the nose. Juicy and fairly dry with good intensity and attractive floral lift. Finishes brisk, dry and firm, with good grip. Try this with roast turkey. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Mar/Apr 2005) |
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| Burgundy |
| 945741 CHARTRON & TRÉBUCHET PULIGNY-MONTRACHET 2002 $ 57.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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Their wines are "ultra-refined and ideal for drinking young". (Robert Parker Jr., Burgundy, 1990)
Food match: grilled salmon, lobster, king crab. |
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945642 CHARTRON-TRÉBUCHET CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET
'LES BENOÎTES' 2002 $ 59.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Examples of the so-called 'modern style' of white Burgundies: very clean, crisp, and devoid of apparent oak. (Matt Kramer, Making Sense of Burgundy, 1990) |
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| 938365 DOMAINE VINCENT GIRARDIN MEURSAULT LES NARVAUX 2002 $ 52.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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Over the last couple of years, Vincent Girardin has relaxed his winemaking style by seeking less extraction and using less new oak, as a result, the fruit is allowed to shine and the terroir is coming to the fore.
Tasting note: Creamed nuts are found in the nose of the 2002 Meursault Narvaux. Light to medium-bodied, zesty, broad, and spicy, this tangy mineral and spice-flavored wine is expansive, reveals admirable depth as well as a long, pure finish. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. Score - 89-91. (Pierre Rovani, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2004) |
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| Loire |
| 653485 CHÂTEAU DE CHASSELOIR 'CUVÉE DES CEPS CENTENAIRES' 2002 $ 18.95 |
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AC Muscadet de Sèvre et Main, Sur Lie (XD) 750 mL
(Chéreau Carré) |
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| The Chéreau family have been making wines in Muscadet since the 15th century. Head of the winery Bernard Chéreau was one of our special guests at the February 2005 Tour de France event in Toronto. He poured this wine to great acclaim that evening. Though most Muscadets are best consumed young, some, like this Château's wines, are known for improving in bottle for 2-5 years after harvest. |
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| 656736 CHÂTEAU DE LA GRAVELLE MUSCADET SÈVRE ET MAINE 2002 $ 12.95 |
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AC, Sur Lie (XD) 750 mL
(Chèreau-Günther, Prop.-Vitic.) |
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| Tasting note: The straw-coloured tint of this wine is beginning to evolve golden nuances. The nose is expressive, offering generous flavours of honey, acacia flowers and a hint of minerality. The clarity of these separate aromas finds its alter ego in the mouth for the equilibrium of flavours here is very successful. (Laurant Boulanger, Guide des Vins Sélection Officielle des Oenologues de France 2004) |
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| Midi |
| 930842 'DOMAINE LA BATTEUSE' CHARDONNAY 2003 $ 12.95 |
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Vin de Pays d'Oc (D) 750 mL
(Bernard Delmas) |
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| This wine is certified organic by the ECOCERT organization. Our Quality Assurance laboratory has determined that this wine contains 18 mg/L of free sulphur. Enjoy this fruit-forward, unoaked Chardonnay with flavourful seafood dishes. |
| Bordeaux |
| Exceptional Value |
| 708594 CHÂTEAU LA GASPARDE 2000 $ 17.95 |
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AC Côtes de Castillon (XD) 750 mL
(Jean-Pierre Janoueix, Prop.) |
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| Here's an opportunity to retaste this fabulous balanced but fruit-forward wine from the great 2000 vintage, previously featured as a 'Wine of the Month' way back in November of 2003. The blend here is 85% Merlot for roundness, 12% Cabernet Franc for elegance and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon for structure. |
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| Burgundy |
| 979252 ALAIN HUDELOT-NOËLLAT CHAMBOLLE-MUSIGNY 2002 $ 57.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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Winemaker Pierre Nawrocki has instituted several vineyard practices that have improved the qualities of the wine, including ploughing between the vineyard rows to aerate the soil and green-harvesting fruit, thus reducing yields and intensifying flavours.
Tasting note: Good colour. Lovely fragrant nose. Ripe and quite substantial. Gently oaky. Clean and rich. Very elegant. Very well balanced. Lovely fruit. Very good indeed. From 2007/2008. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Jan. 2004) |
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| 585927 ANTONIN GUYON GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN 2002 $ 54.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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The winery has been employing more and more acid-softening malolactic fermentation, resulting in wines that are riper in flavour and softer in tannins.
Tasting note: Good positive fruit and depth here. A bit more vivacity too [than with their other wines]. Good follow-through. Elegant too. A very good example. From 2008. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Feb. 2004) |
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713693 DOMAINE A.-F. GROS
BOURGOGNE HAUTES CÔTES DE NUITS 2002 $ 29.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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As with the Antonin Guyon property (featuring two brands this month, 700906 and 585927), A-F Gros has allowed full malolactic fermentation to resulting in rounder, more fruit-forward wines.
Tasting note: Medium weight. Ripe and crisp. Lots of fruit. Good substance and depth. Fresh and balanced. Very good . From 2005/2006. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Feb. 2004) |
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700906 DOMAINE ANTONIN GUYON
CHAMBOLLE-MUSIGNY 'CLOS DU VILLAGE' 2002 $ 57.95 |
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AC, Monopole (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Medium weight. Soft, stylish and fragrant. Good depth. Nicely positive at the end. Good plus. From 2006/2007. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Feb. 2004) |
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| 585935 DOMAINE ARLAUD MOREY-SAINT-DENIS 2002 $ 65.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Good colour. Nice, fat and plump. Medium-full body. Good grip. Slightly rigid because it needs racking. Good balance. Long. Very good plus. From 2008. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Jan. 2004) |
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| 938456 DOMAINE DANIEL RION VOSNE-ROMANÉE 'VILLAGE' 2002 $ 59.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: An elegant, structured wine showing lovely aromas of violets, raspberry, cherry and classic beet root notes. It is dry with a firm tannin backbone surrounded by a lively core of fruit. Will definitely reward 4+ years in a cellar. (Vintages panel, Aug. 2004) |
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| New at Vintages |
| 592709 DOMAINE HUMBERT FRÈRES GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN 2002 $ 59.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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Humbert Frères makes its debut at Vintages with style. According to Burgundy expert, Clive Coates, "The wines [the Humbert brothers] produce are classy, discreet, intense and concentrated, letting the fruit shine out." (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Jan. 2004)
Tasting note: 15 different parcels including quite a lot from Les Marchais in the Combe de Lavaux. Medium weight. Juicy and succulent. Fresh and balanced. Lovely fruit. Very good . From 2006/2007. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Jan. 2004) |
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| 680843 DOMAINE MARQUIS D'ANGERVILLE VOLNAY 'CHAMPANS' 2002 $ 79.95 |
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AC, 1er Cru (XD) 750 mL |
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Sadly, the 2002 vintage is the last from winemaker Jacques d'Angerville who passed away in June 2003. Clive Coates, in The Vine (Feb. 2004) described his final vintage as "a fine legacy".
Tasting note: Good colour. Rich and round. Very good fruit. Fullish bodied but very good tannins. No hard edges. Long and intense. Classy. Very Volnay. Fine. From 2009. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Feb. 2004) |
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| 652420 DOMAINE PARENT POMMARD 'LES CHAPONNIÈRES' 2002 $ 69.95 |
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AC, 1er Cru (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Youthful medium ruby/purple colour leads to a very attractive, classic Pommard nose of black and sour cherry, mineral/earth, leather and hints of truffle. It is dry with very good concentration; attractive fruit below dusty tannins. This medium-bodied, long finishing, structured wine will reward 3-6 years in a cellar. (Vintages panel, July 2005) |
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| 680850 DOMAINE PAVELOT SAVIGNY-LÈS-BEAUNE'LA DOMINODE' 2002 $ 47.95 |
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AC, 1er Cru (XD) 750 mL
((Jean-Marc & Hugues Pavelot)) |
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I consider this domaine the best in the [Savigny-Les-Beaune] village. Savignys as good as these are splendid value. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Feb. 2004)
Tasting note: Very good colour. Full, firm, backward wine. This is going to need time. Lots of volume and depth. Very classy fruit for a Savigny. As usual the richest and most concentrated of Jean-Marc Pavelot's wines. Very lovely fruit. Very long. Lots of dimension. Fine quality. From 2009. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Feb. 2004) |
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| 653022 DOMAINE ROBERT ARNOUX NUITS-ST-GEORGES 2002 $ 59.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL
((Pascal Lachaux)) |
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| Tasting note: The pretty, floral aromatics of the 2002 Nuits-St.-Georges leads to a light to medium-bodied character made up of blackberries and blueberries. It is structured, and armed with firm tannin. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2011. Score - 88. (Pierre Rovani, www.erobertparker.com, June 2004) |
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| 586800 DOMAINE TAUPENOT-MERME MOREY-SAINT-DENIS 2002 $ 59.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Classic Pinot Noir characteristics, including cherry, raspberry and beet root are all present here. This dry wine has a very firm tannin structure with the fruit waiting patiently beneath. Give this 5+ years in a cellar. (Vintages panel, Aug. 2004) |
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| 587055 DOMAINE TOLLOT-BEAUT SAVIGNY-LAVIÈRES 2002 $ 44.95 |
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AC Savigny-lès-Beaune, 1er Cru (XD) 750 mL |
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One of the most dependable domaines in Burgundy, as it has been for 30 years . They have eliminated one racking during the maturing process. This has led to more sophisticated wines in recent years. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Feb. 2004)
Tasting note: Herbal blackberries can be detected in the aromatics of the 2002 Savigny-Les-Beaune Les Lavieres. Revealing excellent depth of fruit, this light to medium-bodied wine offers loads of red and black berries that lead the taster into a firmly structured back end. Projected maturity: 2006-2010. (Pierre Rovani, www.erobertparker.com, June 2004) |
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| 940551 FAIVELEY MERCUREY'LA FRAMBOISIÈRE' 2002 $ 29.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Richer and more succulent [than their Mercurey 'Les Mauvarennes']. Good grip. Good substance. Ripe and fragrant. Long and satisfying. Even better than the Mauvarennes. From 2007. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Jan. 2004) |
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586867 FERNAND & LAURENT PILLOT POMMARD
‘CLOS DE VERGER’ 2002 $ 69.95 |
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AC, 1er Cru (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: A silky wine with sweet raspberry, smoke and spice notes. On the palate, it is dry, very well-balanced and eminently-drinkable now with a roast beef dinner. It will also reward short to mid-term cellaring (2-5 years). (Vintages panel, Jan. 2005) |
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586818 FRÉDÉRIC MAGNIEN GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN
'CLOS DE LA JUSTICE' 2002 $ 54.95 |
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AC (D) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Blueberries and black cherries are intermingled in the nose of the 2002 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos de La Justice. Medium-bodied, revealing cola-laced, dark berry flavors as well as loads of ripe tannin, this fresh, expressive wine is a candidate for drinking over the next 5-6 years. (Pierre-Antoine Rovani, www.erobertparker.com, June 2004) |
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586842 FRÉDÉRIC MAGNIEN VOSNE-ROMANÉE
'AU-DESSUS DE LA RIVIÈRE' 2002 $ 59.95 |
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AC, Vieilles Vignes (XD) 750 mL |
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As this wine is not filtered, the producer recommends you decant it even in its youth.
Tasting note: Attractive dark ruby/violet colour leads to aromas that recall blueberry, smoke, perfume and earth tones. This dry wine is quite flavourful, well-balanced and has a long, structured finish. Enjoy it now with rare lamb or put it in a cellar for 3-5 years. (Vintages panel, Aug. 2004) |
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| 993063 JOSEPH DROUHIN GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN 2002 $ 48.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Fullish bodied, plump and well balanced. Good class and depth. Plenty of energy. A very good village example. From 2010. (Clive Coates, MW, The Vine, Jan. 2004) |
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| 999672 LOUIS LATOUR BEAUNE 'VIGNES FRANCHES' 2002 $ 56.95 |
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AC, 1er Cru (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Lovely expression of fruit and terroir. Cherry jam, licorice and spice aromas and flavors mingle with a velvety texture and solid tannins in this pure, elegant red. Good proportions and a fine length. Best from 2008 through 2018. Score - 91. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, May 31, 2005) |
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654756 ROSSIGNOL-TRAPET GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN
PETITE CHAPELLE 2002 $ 69.95 |
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AC, 1er Cru (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Malo not quite completely finished. Slightly austere. Fullish nose. Rich, ripe, ample, fullish bodied and well balanced. Plenty of depth. Backward, of course. Very good plus. From 2008/2009. (Clive Coates MW, The Vine, Jan. 2004) |
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| Midi |
| New at Vintages |
| 652073 'SPLENDOR SOLIS' ST. CHINIAN 2001 $ 14.95 |
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AC (D) 750 mL
(Vinival) |
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| Tasting note: A plump, full, generous blackberry and garrigue-scented wine for the first full-flavoured meals of the early fall. This dry, ripe and round wine has a very generous mouth-feel and a lingering finish. (Claudius Fehr, Vintages, Feb. 2005) |
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| 936880 CHÂTEAU LES OLLIEUX 2000 $ 17.95 |
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AC Corbières (D) 750 mL
(François Xavier Surbezy, Prop.) |
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Aged for six months in French oak, this wine is a blend of 31% Grenache, 33% Syrah, 31% Carignan and 5% Mourvèdre.
Tasting note: An intense bouquet of herbs, plum jam, Brio and menthol dominate this well-made Midi wine. It is dry, ripe, round, generous, full-bodied and long finishing. Enjoy it with lamb shank or braised beef. (Vintages panel, Oct. 2004) |
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| Rhône |
720466 PAUL JABOULET 'DOMAINE DE THALABERT'
CROZES-HERMITAGE 2001 $ 33.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Superior to its 2000 counterpart, the 2001 Crozes-Hermitage Thalabert's dark plum color is followed by a spicy, green nose of tapenade/olives and peppery black currant and cherry fruit. Medium-bodied, rich, and long, it will be at its finest between 2004-2012. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, June 2003) |
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| Vintages Cellar Selection |
| 973735 PAUL JABOULET HERMITAGE 'LA CHAPELLE' 2001 $ 159.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Some lovely fruit, polished and clean, with all the attributes of a fine terroir - mineral and above all a lot of sweet, ultraripe fruit. Full-bodied, long, with plenty of toasted, smoked bacon and blackberry notes. Easier to appreciate young than many La Chapelles, but what hedonistic pleasure. Best from 2007 through 2015. (Per-Henrik Mansson, www.winespectator.com, Aug. 31, 2003) |
| Provence |
| 950733 DOMAINE DES PEIRECÈDES 'CUVÉE ARIANE' ROSÉ 2004 $ 13.95 |
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AC Côtes de Provence (D) 750 mL
(Alain Baccino) |
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| Enjoy this rosé blend of Syrah, Cinsault and Grenache with lighter seafood dishes or just sip on your back patio and dream of sun-dappled Provence. |
| Mosel-Saar-Ruwer |
| 970129 STUDERT-PRÜM RIESLING KABINETT 2003 $ 18.95 |
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QmP, Wehlener Sonnenuhr, Estate Btld. (MD) 750 mL |
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Tasting note: Very tasty. Lime, slate and peach notes ride a vibrant structure and its profile is delicate for an '03. Delicious now, this has the sleekness to develop over a long time. Drink now through 2020. Score - 91. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Dec. 31, 2004)
Food match: spiced seafood dishes, vindaloo chicken. |
| 660134 CHÂTEAU MEGYER TOKAJI ASZÚ 3 PUTTONYOS 2000 $ 19.95 |
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(S) 500 mL |
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| Château Megyer is one of the oldest wineries in Tokaji. In 1700, more than 100 years before Bordeaux, the Tokaji region was the first in the world to have its vineyards designated based upon the quality of production. Château Megyer's vineyards were one of the first to receive this recognition of quality. Enjoy now with rich desserts, aged cheeses or foie gras, or cellar for 5+ years. |
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| Marche |
| New at Vintages |
| 677369 CIMARELLI VERDICCHIO DEI CASTELLI DI JESI CLASSICO 2004 $ 13.95 |
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DOC (XD) 750 mL |
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| The backbone for white wine production in Marche for decades, the Verdicchio grape is known for producing crisp, lemon- and almond-scented wines. This refreshing white is perfect in the 'backyard bistro' for sipping during the last hot days of summer. |
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| Piedmont |
| New at Vintages |
| 656033 ERNESTO PICOLLO GAVI 2004 $ 13.95 |
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DOCG (XD) 750 mL |
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| Awarded its DOC in 1974, Gavi was elevated to the higher DOCG in 1998. The wine, made with the indigneous Cortese grape, is considered one of the best whites in Italy. When made well, Gavi wines are fruity and aromatic, making them a good match for poultry, fish, seafood or vegetarian cuisine. |
| Campania |
| 718080 MONTESOLAE TAURASI 1997 $ 23.95 |
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DOCG (XD) 750 mL |
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| Made with the great Italian grape, Aglianico, Taurasi DOCG wines are known for their long life. Under DOCG rules, wineries must age the wines for three years, one in oak, before they can be released. The advantage to extended ageing is that you don't have to wait to enjoy it. Sublime now with rack of lamb. With a little patience and short term cellaring (3-5 years), it will continue to improve. |
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| Sicily |
| Vintages New Discovery |
680462 BAGLIO HOPPS 'DIANA' NERO D'AVOLA/
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2002 $ 14.95 |
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IGT Sicilia (XD) 750 mL |
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As featured in Food & Drink. The winemaking gene was deeply spliced into Fabio and Giacomo Hopps' DNA - their ancestor was the ex-pat Brit, James Hopps, a huge influence in the creation of Marsala - though for many years they were, respectively, a banker and a lawyer. Once they both accepted their destiny, they began creating wines of style and substance, such as this 'Diana' wine proves.
Tasting note: Nero d'Avola/Cabernet Sauvignon blend has rich aromas suggesting black cherry, plum, white chocolate, blackberry and tobacco. This dry wine is ripe and generous in the mouth. It is given a solid structure by a hint of firm tannins. This medium full-bodied wine has a very long finish. Enjoy with flavourful beef or lamb dishes. (Vintages panel, Jan. 2005) |
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| Tuscany |
| 977421 CASTELLO DI MONSANTO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2002 $ 24.95 |
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| 651604 CASTELLO MONSANTO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2002 $ 14.95 |
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DOCG (XD) 375 mL |
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| Tasting note: Classic Chianti aromas and flavours of cherry and spice are here. This dry wine is wonderfully smooth with good fruit flavours and moderate intensity on the finish. Enjoy with a full meat pasta dish. (Vintages panel, Oct. 2004) |
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| 974394 FRESCOBALDI 'CASTIGLIONI' CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2002 $ 19.95 |
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IGT Toscana (XD) 750 mL
(Marchesi de Frescobaldi) |
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| Tasting note: Very ripe, with dried fruit and hints of raisin and grilled meat. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and loads of fruit and toasted oak. Impressive wine for the vintage. Needs some time in bottle. Best after 2005. Score - 89. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2004) |
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| Veneto |
| New at Vintages |
| 651570 IGINO ACCORDINI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 'LE BESSOLE' 2000 $ 46.95 |
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DOC (D) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: A plump, full and flavourful Amarone with rich plum compote and floral aromas dominating. This long finishing wine would be an exceptional match for full-flavoured beef or lamb dishes. |
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| New at Vintages |
| 657452 QUINTA DE VENTOZELO TOURIGA NACIONAL DOURO TINTO 2001 $ 19.95 |
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DOC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Touriga Nacional is one of the classic grapes in Douro for Port production. Producers, such as Quinta de Ventozelo, have begun to produce deeply delicious, very flavourful dry wines with this same grape. Enjoy with braised beef dishes, or, if you are up for the challenge, roast suckling pig. |
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