Archive for September 30, 2006
Release
Spirits | Sake | Champagne & Sparkling
Wine | Wine
by country | The Wines of Bordeaux
Please note: Vintages
Spirits
- September 30 Release
|
| Armagnac |
VINTAGES
Essentials Collection
ARMAGNAC
DE MONTAL VSOP
France
(De Montal)
Olivier de Montal selects the bottles of Armagnac that will bear his
name as part of his commitment to the highest quality. His VSOP is balanced
and mellow with nutty and woodsy characteristics. Enjoy it in a snifter
at the end of a long day.
618496 750 mL $44.95
|
| Grappa |
New
at VINTAGES
ALEXANDER
'XXX' VILLA CHARITIES DOVE GRAPPA
30th Anniversary of Villa Colombo, Veneto, Italy
(Distilleria Bottega)
Villa Charities provides culturally sensitive care through educational
and recreational programs carried out by their affiliates such as Toronto's
Columbus Centre. Distilleria Bottega proudly donates their proceeds from
this hand-blown glass 'Dove Grappa' to Villa Charities.
009647 500 mL $74.95
|
| Sake - September
30 Release |
| Sake |
TAMANOHIKARI
OMACHI JUNMAI DAIGINJO SUPER PREMIUM SAKE
Japan
Tasting Note: This is a junmai daiginjo made by Tamanohikari,
brewed in Fushimi, famous for its pure water, essential for palatable
sake. It's robust [and] full-bodied with a kick ... This is good
with full-flavoured dishes like smoked fish and yakitori. (Nicole
Fall, www.jal.com/en/sake, undated)
747790 (D) 300 mL $15.95 
|
|
Sparkling
Wine - September 30 Release
|
| |
| Sparkling
Wine |
New Zealand
CLOUDY
BAY PELORUS BRUT 2001
Marlborough, South Island
Tasting Note: Adds quite a lot of nuttiness and toast with a straw
and hessian dry quality and a core of fruit. Very mouthfilling and rolling
mousse, with lots of fruit. There's a citrus quality, but also a sense
of mealy, nutty Cox's Pippin [apple] ripeness and good acidity. Score
- 89. (Tom Cannavan, www.winepages.com, May
2006)
338459 (D) 750 mL $32.95 
|
CLOUDY
BAY PELORUS NV
Marlborough, South Island
Tasting Note: Cloudy Bay's non-vintage Marlborough bubbly is a Chardonnay-dominant
style, with 20% Pinot Noir, matured for at least two years on its Yeast
lees (a year less than the vintage [bubbly]). It is deliberately made in
a more fruit-driven style than the vintage, and so less complex, but still
very refined and refreshing. The blend on the market in 2005 is an elegant
wine, pale straw, with plenty of fresh, crisp, dryish flavour, yeasty and
lively. Score - **** (out of 5). (Michael
Cooper, Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines 2006)
942417 (XD) 750 mL $29.95
|
South
Africa
GRAHAM
BECK BRUT ROSÉ 2004
Methode Cap Classique, WO Robertson
Made from hand-picked Pinot Noir (82%) and
Chardonnay (18%) grapes, this sparkling rosé is
somewhat unique as the two grape varieties are
actually pressed together. Made in the traditional
champagne method, this fresh and fruity fizz
would make an excellent aperitif. Look for plenty
of strawberry and raspberry fruit aromas and
flavours, a complex creamy palate and long finish.
004085 (D) 750 mL $21.95
|
|
Wine by country - September 30 Release
|
| Canada - Ontario |
VINTAGES VQA Discovery
LEGENDS ESTATES 'RESERVE' PINOT NOIR 2003
VQA Niagara Peninsula
Tasting Note: Ruby red with a tinge of amber, this complex Pinot proves quite convincingly that the difficult grape has viability in Ontario. It expresses powerful aromas of wet earth, cola, cherry, leather and smoke. Dry, medium full-bodied with cherry and mineral flavours, soft tannins and a medium finish. This is very good Pinot that would pair well with roast duck, veal chops or mushroom risotto. (VINTAGES panel, Dec. 2005)
661876 (D) 750 mL $17.95
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
| California |
IRONSTONE 'OBSESSION' SYMPHONY 2005
California
Symphony is a grape that was created at the University of California-Davis by crossing Muscat of Alexandria with Grenache Gris. Ironstone's version is refreshing and charming with a wonderfully aromatic nose and off-dry palate. Pair it with spicy Asian dishes and find out why it's easy to become 'obsessed' with this wine.
910919 (MD) 375 mL $7.95
|
IRONSTONE VIOGNIER 2005
California
Nestled against the Sierra Foothills, Ironstone Vineyards has grown from humble beginnings to become California's largest winery/entertainment complex. With this fresh and friendly Viognier, expect aromas and flavours of peach, apricot and tropical fruit. Always a great value, pair it with grilled shrimp.
946665 (D) 750 mL $15.95
|
KENDALL-JACKSON 'VINTNER'S RESERVE' SAUVIGNON BLANC 2005
California
Tasting Note: Sometimes this variety can veer out of control with over-the-top zinginess, but K-J's offering is a model of restraint and balance. Grapefruit aromas lead to flavors of pears, limes and figs and a crisp texture. Yummy, and nice with fish dishes. (Jerry Shiver, www.usatoday.com, May 29, 2006)
459552 (XD) 750 mL $17.95
|
MURPHY-GOODE CHARDONNAY 2002
Sonoma County
Tasting Note: Dry and acidy-tart, this is a wine of great structure and balance. The flavors veer toward lime custard, mangoes, apricots, vanilla and slate, with a gentle overlay of toasty oak. It's quite a sophisticated Chardonnay, and a great value. Score - 90. (Wine Enthusiast, Nov. 1, 2005)
000745 (D) 750 mL $19.95
|
New at VINTAGES
VINUM CELLARS 'CHARD-NO-WAY' CHENIN BLANC 2005
Wilson Vineyards, Clarksburg
Tasting Note: This Napa-based winery spoofs California Chardonnay with a "Chardonnesque" wine made from Chenin Blanc grapes. The result? A versatile white with hints of ripe stone fruit and floral notes. Best food pairings: Crab cakes with spicy aïoli. Fish. Chicken. (Kathryn Matthews, 'The Daily Dish', www.epicurious.com, May 10, 2006)
008763 (D) 750 mL $15.95
|
| California |
New at VINTAGES
ARTEZIN ZINFANDEL 2003
Napa/Amador/Mendocino Counties
(Hess Group)
Artezin is a new label from Donald Hess that's devoted to Zinfandel. The grapes are 67% Mendocino, 21% Amador and 12% Napa County in origin.
Tasting Note: There are blueberries and cherries in there along with the brambly, peppery stuff. The wine is claret-style, meaning it's balanced and harmonious despite 15.5% alcohol [by volume]. Score - 90. (Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 15, 2005)
004887 (XD) 750 mL $21.95
|
Organic product
BONTERRA MERLOT 2003
Mendocino County
Our Quality Assurance laboratory has determined that this organically grown wine contains 17 mg/l of free sulphur.
Tasting Note: Last year's release was the best Bonterra Merlot ever. This one's right up there. It's rich and dry and exceedingly fruity, with long, deep cherry, blackberry and cocoa flavors complexed with coffee and herb nuances. The mouthfeel is vibrant and interesting. Score - 90. (Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast, May 1, 2006)
984724 (D) 750 mL $19.95
|
CHATEAU ST. JEAN PINOT NOIR 2004
Sonoma County
Tasting Note: An extremely fetching wine, with seductive damask plum aromas and soft, round, elegant, black fruit flavors. Score - **** (out of 5). (Quarterly Review of Wines, Spring 2006)
687970 (D) 750 mL $25.95
|
New at VINTAGES
GREG NORMAN CALIFORNIA ESTATES PINOT NOIR 2004
Santa Barbara County
Tasting Note: Attractive light to medium ruby colour with aromas of black cherry, smoked meat, spice, coffee and a hint of tar. On the palate it is quite pleasing, round and ripe. An excellent choice for stuffed veal tenderloin or grilled salmon. (VINTAGES panel, Aug. 2006)
687988 (D) 750 mL $24.95
|
MURPHY-GOODE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2002
Alexander Valley
This supple Cab from Murphy-Goode would be a good match for roast duck. This elegant medium full-bodied wine promises black cherry fruit, oak and fresh green herb flavours. Murphy-Goode has grown steadily since its inception 20 years ago and was purchased this year by the venerable Jess Jackson of Kendall-Jackson fame.
995142 (XD) 750 mL $32.95
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exceptional Value
SEPTIMA MALBEC 2005
Mendoza
In Argentina, they eat lots of beef so it's little wonder that this Malbec is excellent with steak. Expect forward aromas of black cherry, currants and oaky notes, lush fruit flavours and a dry, medium to full body.
686113 (XD) 750 mL $13.95
|
Organic product
LA FORTUNA SAUVIGNON BLANC 2005
Lontue Valley
Our Quality Assurance laboratory has determined that this organic wine contains 23 mg/l of free sulphur. This refreshing and aromatic wine would be perfect as an aperitif or with a shrimp or scallop stir-fry.
687772 (D) 750 mL $12.95
|
Organic product
LA FORTUNA MERLOT 2005
Lontue Valley
Our Quality Assurance laboratory has determined that this organic wine contains 24 mg/l of free sulphur. La Fortuna has a long history of winemaking and it continues to build on its traditions. In recent years they have been leading the charge in the organic movement in Chile. All the vineyards are certified organic by the Swiss Agency IMO. An excellent value, look for ripe fruit and some peppery spice in this medium full-bodied wine.
687764 (XD) 750 mL $12.95
|
VINTAGESEssentials
MIGUEL TORRES 'SANTA DIGNA' CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V)
Curicó
The Torres family has revolutionized the production of fine wine in Chile. This Cab Sauv has bright black currant, plum and oak aromas. Fruit dominates in this dry wine and is nicely balanced by fine tannins and crisp acid. A perfect choice for grilled or roasted meats, it will also reward 1-2 years in a cellar.
177451 (D) 750 mL $14.95
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exceptional Value
ELDERTON 'UNWOODED' CHARDONNAY 2006
Barossa, South Australia
(The Ashmead Family)
A fantastic value, this stainless-steel-fermented and -aged Chardonnay is the Australian answer to Chablis. Extremely fresh and fruit-driven, expect generous aromas and flavours of citrus and tropical fruits. It is dry, medium-bodied with a crisp lingering finish. Enjoy with pan-seared scallops or lighter pasta dishes.
906453 (D) 750 mL $14.95
|
ELDERTON 'FRIENDS' SHIRAZ 2003
Barossa, South Australia
Tasting Note: The least expensive Shiraz offering here is the 2003 Friends, a lovely, seductive effort with low acidity, blackberry and cassis fruit, and hints of smoke, earth, wood, and charcoal. Enjoy this attractive red over the next 4-5 years. Score - 91. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2005)
660480 (XD) 750 mL $19.95
|
GRANT BURGE 'BAROSSA VINES' SHIRAZ 2004
Barossa Valley, South Australia
Tasting Note: Ripe in flavor, but not too hearty, achieving a nice balance of focused plum and berry fruit against fine tannins and not too much alcohol. Drink now through 2009. Score - 87. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, May 15, 2006)
738567 (XD) 750 mL $16.95
|
LINDEMANS 'LIMESTONE RIDGE VINEYARD' SHIRAZ/CABERNET 2001
Coonawarra, South Australia
Tasting Note: Spicy, slightly meaty and leathery, this brightly flavoured and dark fruited shiraz reveals a hint of herbaceousness. Closed and brooding, its violet-like perfume of cassis, dark plums and mulberries reveals smoky undertones of cedar/mocha oak and capsicum. Its deep, dark flavours of plums, cassis and mulberries knit tightly with pencil shavings-like cedar/chocolate oak, before a persistent savoury finish of lingering mineral and meaty qualities. Drink 2013-2021. Score - 93. (Jeremy Oliver, www.jeremyoliver.com.au, May 2006)
353573 (XD) 750 mL $49.95
|
LINDEMANS 'PYRUS' CABERNET SAUVIGNON/MERLOT/ CABERNET FRANC 2001
Coonawarra, South Australia
Tasting Note: Now this is a seriously big old-fashioned wine, and I say that with the greatest respect. Dark berries, liquorice, chocolate, mint and blueberry flavours finish with excellent length and persistence. A full-bodied wine well-backed by dusty, drying tannins; the complexity is well developed and will improve with time. A real long-term cellaring proposition, it needs time to soften and will be best approached in 2011 and beyond. Rated as Highly Recommended ... (Ric Einstein, www.torbwine.com, May 2005)
353565 (XD) 750 mL $49.95
|
LINDEMANS 'ST. GEORGE VINEYARD' CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2001
Coonawarra, South Australia
Tasting Note: Deep ruby/garnet colour with aromas of cassis, blueberry, mint, vanilla and blackberry. Dry with concentrated fruit flavours and an excellent tannin core, this medium full-bodied wine has a long, elegant finish. Match it with roast leg of lamb or cellar it 2-4 years. (VINTAGES panel, Aug. 2006)
353581 (XD) 750 mL $47.95
|
Exceptional Value
WATER WHEEL 'MEMSIE' SHIRAZ/CABERNET SAUVIGNON/MALBEC 2004
Bendingo, Victoria
Tasting Note: Smooth and generous, a lively style with juicy plum and blackberry aromas and flavors, lingering on the refined finish. Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Drink now through 2010. Score - 90. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Dec. 15, 2005)
656637 (XD) 750 mL $15.95
|
YALUMBA 'THE SIGNATURE' CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SHIRAZ 2001
Barossa, South Australia
Tasting Note: The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz The Signature is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Shiraz that spent 20 months in a combination of French and American hogsheads as well as smaller barrels. Its deep, sweet perfume of blackberries, camphor, damp earth, vanilla, licorice, and pepper is followed by a powerful, flavorful, intense wine revealing high tannins as well as impressive concentration. This superb Cabernet should easily age for 12-15 years. Score - 95. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2005)
528356 (XD) 750 mL $44.95
|
YALUMBA 'TRICENTENARY VINES' GRENACHE 2002
Barossa, South Australia
Tasting Note: Made from 132-year-old Grenache vines, the 2002 Grenache Tricentenary, which sees more oak aging, offers plenty of kirsch-like fruit as well as additional structure, tannin, and elegance. Despite the difference in price, I am not sure it is any better than the Bushvine Grenache, but it does have more density, and will probably outlive its less expensive sibling by 3-4 years. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2004)
588186 (XD) 750 mL $39.95
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CLOUDY BAY CHARDONNAY 2004
Marlborough, South Island
Tasting Note: Light gold in colour with peach and vanilla on the nose, this is a big, rounded, glycerolic, oily textured wine with spicy oak, juicy grilled peach fruit, lots of creamy butterscotch and a smidgen of grapefruit to balance the richness and natural fruit sweetness of the long, toasty, mouthfilling finish. Starting to open up nicely - a delicious main course wine. (Sue Courtney, www.wineoftheweek.com, July 5, 2006)
359513 (XD) 750 mL $29.95
|
WITHER HILLS SAUVIGNON BLANC 2005
Marlborough, South Island
Tasting Note: In it's infancy, the 2005 vintage is beautifully scented, fleshy and zingy, with intense gooseberry, melon and green-capsicum flavours and a finely balanced, dry finish. Score - ****1/2 (out of 5). (Michael Cooper, Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines 2006)
919514 (XD) 750 mL $19.95
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GRAHAM BECK VIOGNIER 2004
WO Western Cape
This is a deftly crafted Viognier that blends wines from both Beck's Robertson and Franschhoek cellars. The wines were made using the same methods including 50% barrel fermentation and 50% stainless steel. The final blend was matured for four months in second-use French oak barrels before bottling. Expect a full-bodied, silky textured wine with apple and citrus fruit flavours perfectly in balance with the oak characteristics. Enjoy with crab puffs, pan-seared scallops or even a roast turkey dinner.
004119 (D) 750 mL $19.95
|
ROBERTSON WINERY 'RETREAT' SAUVIGNON BLANC 2005
WO Robertson
Tasting Note: Grapes from eponymous farm [nicknamed Retreat] owned by Jac de Wet. 05 [is] one of their best; effusive super-ripe fruit with flinty spark; beefy & broad but balanced. Score - **** (out of 5). (David Hughes, John Platter South African Wine Guide 2006)
933085 (D) 750 mL $14.95
|
GRAHAM BECK MERLOT 2004
WO Western Cape
Tasting Note: Blend of wines vinified at both [of Graham Beck's] cellars. 2004 in restrained, cool fruit style: violets, fresh red berries, herbaceous thread and juicy palate in light tannin framework. Score - *** (out of 5). (Christine Rudman, John Platter South African Wines 2006)
607804 (XD) 750 mL $15.95
|
GRAHAM BECK 'THE WILLIAM' CABERNET SAUVIGNON/PINOTAGE 2001
WO Coastal Region
Named after Graham Beck's first grandson, 'The William' is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Pinotage.
Tasting Note: 01 opulent, deep, fruit-rich, yet trademark elegant structure of cellar's top wine. Black plums, hints of forest floor, savoury spice; respected, not overwhelmed, by deft oaking. Has long life ahead. Score - ****1/2 (out of 5). (Christine Rudman, John Platter South African Wines 2005)
593467 (XD) 750 mL $22.95
|
LAMMERSHOEK PINOTAGE 2004
'Barrique', WO Swartland
According to local folklore, this farm is called Lammershoek, or 'lamb's corner', because ewes often found shelter near here for themselves and their lambs from the local predatory golden eagle. The property's sandstone, granite and clay soil is considered ideal for Pinotage. This complex, medium-full bodied wine promises rich plum and cherry flavours, spice and ripe tannins.
954594 (XD) 750 mL $17.95
|
ROBERTSON WINERY 'PROSPECT HILL' CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003
WO Robertson
Tasting Note: Warm-country cab with generous build. 03 last [year] unfolded slowly in glass to reveal [a] more refined wine; real summer pudding melange, generous ripe tannins & vanilla oak. Score - **** (out of 5). (David Hughes, John Platter South African Wines 2006)
687814 (XD) 750 mL $18.95
|
ROBERTSON WINERY WOLFKLOOF SHIRAZ 2004
WO Robertson
Robertson Winery is one of South Africa's leading producers and it boasts a long tradition of dedicated grape-growing families (some of whom are 4th generation growers). The grower cultivates approximately 1,900 hectares of vine in close collaboration with viticulturist Briaan Stipp. Engaging aromas of cinnamon, mulberry and clove lead to a rich, textured, and creamy mouthfeel with nicely integrated oak. Pair with seared flank steak for pure bliss.
626341 (D) 750 mL $19.95
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Alsace |
ZIND HUMBRECHT GEWURZTRAMINER 2004
AC
Robert Parker Jr. uses superlatives such as "genius" to describe winemaker Olivier Humbrecht and there's good reason for this. The wines coming out of Zind Humbrecht are of the finest quality and a little bit of that genius is in this Gewurztraminer. Expect intense aromas of spices with rose scent accents in this dry yet refreshing and harmoniously balanced wine. Sublime as an aperitif to kick off your evening or with mildly spiced Asian food.
686220 (D) 750 mL $25.95
|
| Burgundy |
New at VINTAGES
HENRI DE VILLAMONT BOURGOGNE CHARDONNAY 2004
AC, 'Prestige'
Tasting Note: Mid-yellow gold colour. Delightful aromas of apple, gingerbread and toffee with a touch of grilled hazelnut imparted by maturation in French oak barrels. This medium-bodied Chardonnay is firmly structured with a good acid backbone. Great value for a white Burgundy. A perfect aperitif or complement to Atlantic salmon. (VINTAGES panel, Nov. 2005)
525121 (XD) 750 mL $16.95
|
New at VINTAGES
JEAN CHARTRON BOURGOGNE CHARDONNAY 2004
AC, 'Clos de la Combe'
(Domaine Chartron-Dupard)
Tasting Note: Mid-straw colour. Enticing aromas of apricot pit and Golden Delicious with sage, dill, ginger and mineral notes. This elegant, single vineyard Chardonnay shows good ripeness and balance. A classy wine punching well above its weight. Enjoy with shellfish or gnocchi. (VINTAGES panel, Nov. 2005)
581363 (D) 750 mL $22.95
|
| Loire |
Organic Product
DOMAINE DE PONTCHER TOURAINE SAUVIGNON 2005
AC
Here's a lively Sauvignon Blanc from a biodynamic producer. Made from organically grown grapes, this is a clean, crisp and delicious wine with personality. Look for savoury gooseberry flavours on the palate. Marvellous with oysters or grilled trout. Our Quality Assurance laboratory has determined that this wine contains 20 mg/l of free sulphur.
011106 (XD) 750 mL $13.95
|
| Burgundy |
ALBERT MOROT BOURGOGNE PINOT NOIR 2004
AC
Tasting Note: Mid ruby colour. Aromas of cherry drops are gently caressed by floral and earth notes. This light- to medium-bodied wine exhibits charming fruit flavours on the palate. A lovely match for grilled tuna. (VINTAGES panel, Jan. 2006)
011080 (XD) 750 mL $18.95
|
| Midi |
MAS JANEIL CÔTES DU ROUSSILLON-VILLAGES 2003
AC
(Sarl Jacques & Francois Lurton)
It is indeed rare to find a wine of this quality at such a price. Grenache (60%), Carignan (30%) and Syrah (10%) contribute aromas of raspberry and redcurrants with notes of spice, pepper and chocolate. Great fruit concentration and well-integrated oak in this fresh, full-bodied wine. A fantastic value.
992800 (XD) 750 mL $15.95
|
| Rhône |
CAIRANNE 2004
AC Côtes-du-Rhône Villages
(Domaine de l'Ameillaud)
Domaine de l'Ameillaud has been a family-owned vineyard for the past 200 years. Count on loads of appealing fruit flavours with underlying spice and earth characteristics in this wonderfully textured and balanced wine. A crowd-pleaser at an outstanding price, bring it to your family's Thanksgiving Dinner. You will all be giving thanks for one more thing that day.
660605 (D) 750 mL $14.95
|
DOMAINE DE LA CHARBONNIÈRE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 'LES HAUTES BRUSQUIÈRES' 2003
AC, 'Cuvée Spéciale'
Tasting Note: Decidedly earthy and again resiny and nearly obnoxiously spicy, the 2003 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Hautes Brusquières Cuvée Speciale seems to be too driven by the spice component as opposed to the fruit aspects. Some gritty tannin in the finish also kept my eyebrows raised. This is a firm, big wine, but is showing some of the harsh tannins that sometimes plague the vintage. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring, and hope they become resolved. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2006)
579581 (XD) 750 mL $54.95 
|
DOMAINE DU VIEUX TÉLÉGRAPHE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2003
AC
Tasting Note: The 2003 Vieux Télégraphe Châteauneuf- du-Pape has turned out well. Deep ruby with some purple nuances, this wine is medium to full-bodied and reveals notes of licorice, pepper, Asian spices, black cherry, raspberry, and currant, as well as a relatively big, sweet palate impression with moderate tannin in the finish. It is accessible, but will benefit from 2-3 years of aging. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. Score - 92. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2006)
951475 (XD) 750 mL $55.95
|
| Southwest |
Organic product
CHÂTEAU LE BARRADIS BERGERAC 2004
AC
Our Quality Assurance laboratory has determined that this organic wine contains 11 mg/l of free sulphur. You might call Château le Barradis' 38 hectares of land 'Eden' as it has never been treated with chemicals and has been certified organic since 1968. This is an elegantly structured wine with lovely pure red berry fruit flavours on the palate. Enjoy with grilled meats, leg of lamb or eggplant parmigiana.
707273 (XD) 750 mL $12.95
|
| Rheingau |
New at VINTAGES
BARON KNYPHAUSEN RIESLING KABINETT 2004
QmP, Erbacher Steinmorgen
Shipment delayed. Will be available in next Vintages release.
Tasting Note: Apricot and orange flavors mark this rich, almost oily Riesling. It turns austere, with stone and white pepper notes emerging on the finish. Solid, if not as expressive as the best in the category. Best from 2008 through 2018. Score - 87. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2006)
007658 (MD) 750 mL $18.95
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Piedmont |
FONTANAFREDDA BARBARESCO COSTE RUBÍN 2001
DOCG
Tasting Note: The 2001 Barbaresco Coste Rubín shows what 2001 is going to offer in its brilliant ruby/garnet tonality, expansive and expressive nose of ripe fruit, anisette, cinnamon, and sandalwood and its fresh, firm, and supple flavors, well supported by the tannins but without any sign of roughness or dryness. Drink: 2005-2016. Score - 91. (Daniel Thomases, www.erobertparker.com, Aug. 2005)
500827 (XD) 750 mL $39.95
|
TRAVAGLINI GATTINARA 2001
DOCG
Tasting Note: The winery has other jewels in its crown, as the fabulous base Gattinara 2001 so eloquently proves in the best version we can remember. A pure, austere nose expresses the Gattinara territory, with liquorice and crushed roses from the nebbiolo grape and elegant streaks of eucalyptus, menthol and even acacia blossom. The long-lingering palate is lively and tangy, slightly held back by assertive tannins. Score - 2 Glasses (out of 3). (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines 2006)
713354 (XD) 750 mL $32.95
|
| Sicily |
New at VINTAGES
SPADINA UNA ROSA 'SIGNATURE' NERO D'AVOLA 2002
IGT Sicilia
(S.I.V.)
This wine was number 97 on Wine Spectator's 2005 Top 100 Wines of the Year.
Tasting Note: Dark, full-bodied and chewy, with meaty blackberry and mineral character. Medium- to full-bodied, with good, solid tannins and a long finish. Well done. Best after 2005. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, July 31, 2005)
010330 (D) 750 mL $19.95
|
| Tuscany |
FONTODI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2003
DOCG
Fontodi is regarded as one of the best Chianti estates. Winemaker Giovanni Manetti's efforts have garnered that rarefied and ever-elusive 'Three Glasses' from Gambero Rosso on more than one occasion. Manetti is passionate and skillful and every one of his wines receives his full attention. If you want the perfect introduction to Chianti Classico then you must try this wine.
933317 (XD) 750 mL $27.95
|
MARCHESE ANTINORI CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2001
DOCG
Tasting Note: The 2001 Chianti Classico Riserva Tenute Marchese Antinori, a mouthful of a name, is essentially a selection of the best Sangiovese grapes of the house's Chianti Classico vineyards, with the sole exception of the Badia a Passignano. A solid ruby in color, its nose of red berry fruit, leather, and game is followed by full flavors, plush and classy in their flow and with a rising intensity and density on the finish. Drink: 2006-2016. Score - 90. (Daniel Thomases, www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
512384 (XD) 750 mL $34.95
|
| Veneto |
FARINA AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 2001
DOC
From the respected Farina family, this Amarone is a captivating blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara grapes. Look for aromas of raspberry and spice on the nose leading to a palate that is full-bodied with velvety tannins and a harmonious balance. Excellent with game dishes and ethereal with hard cheeses.
995910 (D) 750 mL $34.95
|
New at VINTAGES
FINAGRA ESPORÃO RESERVA BRANCO 2005
DOC Alentejo, Reguengos
Made with the local Antão Vaz, Roupeiro and Arinto grapes, expect a peach-, melon- and oak-spice-dominated wine that, on the palate, tends to be rich, complex and creamy. Enjoy with a variety of shellfish dishes.
500033 (XD) 750 mL $17.95
|
New at VINTAGES
'ESENCIA DIVIÑIA' ALBARIÑO 2005
DO Rías Baixas
(Adegas Gran Vinum)
Tasting Note: Quite an aromatic nose of hawthorn, guava, peach and mineral. It is dry, fresh/zesty with vibrant fruit around. This solidly-structured wine has a good, persistent finish. This wine would be a fine match for a variety of shellfish, tapas dishes, sushi or even your Thanksgiving dinner. (VINTAGES panel, April 2006)
581900 (XD) 750 mL $16.95
|
ALEJANDRO FERNÁNDEZ PESQUERA CRIANZA 2003
DO Ribera del Duero
Tasting Note: Luscious fruit flavors of blackberry and blueberry adorn a solid structure of firm tannins, well-integrated toasty oak and just enough acidity for balance in this vivid red. Like a farmer dressed for a night on the town. Drink now through 2011. Score - 90. (Thomas Matthews, www.winespectator.com, Nov. 15, 2005)
341461 (XD) 750 mL $26.95
|
ALLENDE UNFILTERED 2003
DOC Rioja
Tasting Note: Medium deep ruby colour. The nose is complex with aromas including plum, dark chocolate, leather, cherry and smoke. It is dry and quite fruity with ripe tannins offering superb support. Medium full-bodied with a long finish, this wine may be enjoyed now with rare cuts of meat, or it will reward 3-5 years in a cellar. (VINTAGES panel, Aug. 2006)
954560 (XD) 750 mL $29.95
|
New at VINTAGES
CAPÇANES VALL DEL CALÀS 2002
DO Montsant
Tasting Note: This blend of Merlot, Garnacha and Tempranillo has beautiful and complex aromas of blueberry, plum and oak spice. It is dry and assertive with very good structure. Enjoy this medium full-bodied, long finishing wine with lamb stew or steaks. (VINTAGES panel, April 2006)
010298 (XD) 750 mL $19.95
|
LAN GRAN RESERVA 1998
DOC Rioja
Tasting Note: Pretty mahogany colour leads to aromas suggesting plum, strawberry, oak, violets and a note of barnyard. Dry, very silky, but assertive, medium full-bodied with a long, lush finish. Ready to drink with grilled leg of lamb. (VINTAGES panel, April 2003)
928622 (D) 750 mL $27.95
|
MUGA RESERVA 2002
DOC Rioja
From its beginnings in 1932, Muga has had a reputation for creating Crianza wines that taste like Reservas and Reservas, such as this one, that taste like fine Gran Reservas.
Tasting Note: Full garnet ruby colour leads to aromas of cherry, strawberry, mint and new oak. It is dry, sweet-centred, polished, supple, medium full-bodied wines with a long finish. An excellent match for braised meat dishes or Thanksgiving dinner. (VINTAGES panel, April 2006)
976928 (XD) 375 mL $11.95
177345 (XD) 750 mL $19.95 |
| | |
