Tawse is one of Ontario's hottest wineries. Toronto Life's David Lawrason awarded this Chardonnay *** 1/2 (out of 5). This is a fresh, crisp, well-balanced white with nicely integrated oak and lovely tropical and white fruit flavours. Perfect with lobster, salmon or sweetbreads.

55087    (XD)            750 mL    $22.20     

Originally created at UC Davis, Symphony is an aromatic grape that's a cross between Muscat of Alexandria and Grenache Gris. The latest vintage of Ironstone's popular Obsession is as fragrant as always, soft and round with a touch of sweetness that makes it an excellent companion to spicy Asian dishes.

ALDERBROOK OLD VINE ZINFANDEL  2002
Dry Creek Valley  

TASTING NOTE: This is great Zin, filled with personality. Showcases the briary, brambly wild blackberry and blueberry flavors, spices and dusty tannins this appellation is famous for. Finishes dry and smooth. Beautiful and compelling now. Score - 91. (Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast, March 2005) 

603696    (XD)            750 mL    $26.95   

The 1.5 L size of this wine is also available in this release.(016915)

TASTING NOTE: Serve with hearty meat dishes. It offers bright cherry and black currant fruit, some floral notes and tannins that are quite firm. You could easily cellar it for a couple of years. (www.sanluisobispo.com, Aug. 15, 2007) 

656561    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

Toasted Head takes its name from the practice of toasting the tops and bottoms of barrels as well as the staves. The extra toasting gives these wines unique hints of vanilla. Expect exuberant black cherry and raspberry aromas plus complex hints of spice, licorice, lavender and chocolate. Try it with braised beef.

969816    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

This Zin is unique in being the only one produced exclusively from grapes grown in Carneros. The region's cool climate and volcanic, ashy soil combine to create perfect conditions for the cultivation of Zinfandel. Truchard was recognized as one of the 2006 Estate Wineries of the Year by Wine & Spirits magazine.

54858    (XD)            750 mL    $18.95   

This unique sweet wine is a blend of two explosively aromatic grapes, Muscat of Alexander and Viognier with about 60% of the grapes botrytis-affected. Botrytis is the benevolent 'noble rot' that extracts water from the grapes, leaving the concentrated sugars behind. The result is a complex and elegant nectar that exhibits a mix of honey, floral, and apricot characteristics along with notes of almonds and walnuts. Popular as an aperitif or dessert wine, it would go very well with apple pie and cheese.

46292    (S)            500 mL    $13.95   

CASA LAPOSTOLLE CUVÉE ALEXANDRE MERLOT  2005
Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley  


TASTING NOTE: Dense and solid, this is top-flight Chilean Merlot without any hints of green to drag it down. The nose deals polished oak and bright berry aromas; the palate offers a perfect feel and impressive plum, berry, chocolate and vanilla flavors. Properly tannic and balanced. An Editor's Choice. Score - 91. (Michael Schachner, Wine Enthusiast, Sept. 2007) 

459206    (D)            750 mL    $32.95   

Viña Casablanca was founded as a sister company to Viña Santa Carolina in 1992. The boutique-sized winery quickly built a solid reputation, particularly for its iconic Sauvignon Blanc from the Casablanca Valley. Now it's the reds that are turning heads. Sourced from the Rapel Valley, the El Bosque Syrah gained recognition by winning Gold at the prestigious Catad`Or Grand Hyatt Wine Awards 2006 in Chile.

46276    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   

WOLF BLASS GOLD LABEL CHARDONNAY  2004
Adelaide Hills, South Australia  


TASTING NOTE: Slightly edgy aromas of lime and lemon rind with lightly reductive and funky undertones of pear and apple. Fine and chalky, it's vibrant and minerally, with suppleness and layers of texture wrapped in a slightly chalky grip. Focused and funky, with a core of vibrant citrusy fruit, it's restrained and stylish, ready for drinking now or cellaring. Score - 94. (Jeremy Oliver, www.jeremyoliver.com.au, Feb. 19, 2005) 

606186    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

The first vineyards were planted at the village of Ebenezer in the early 1850s. You can count on a complex nose from this old-vine Shiraz, and a palate loaded with characteristic red/black fruit, chocolate and coffee all surrounded by delightful spicy notes. Wouldn't you expect lots of spark and feistiness from a wine named Ebenezer? Enjoy over the next decade.

971705    (XD)            750 mL    $39.95   

ELDERTON SHIRAZ  2004
Barossa, South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: Complex, with structure, grip, wood, and power, the deep, chewy, peppery 2004 Shiraz reveals blackberry and black cherry fruit with dusty, loamy soil notes in the background. Drink it over the next decade. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006) 

713024    (D)            750 mL    $29.95   

KILIKANOON THE LACKEY SHIRAZ  2005
South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: ... The 2005 The Lackey ... emphasizes the ripe, classic, South Australian Shiraz grape aged in old oak and bottled with no fining or filtration. Deep, rich, full-bodied, and elegant, it reveals plenty of berry fruit, pepper, chocolate, and new saddle leather characteristics. Drink this spicy, earthy effort over the next 2-3 years. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006) 

5199    (XD)            750 mL    $17.95   

The Olsen family planted their first vines in 1986 when Margaret River was not even a blip on the radar of most wine lovers. Today, winemaker Jared Olsen crafts complex and interesting wines like this splendid Merlot to reflect the unique qualities of this now-celebrated viticultural area. The family mantra is 'excellence by choice' and it shows in the ripe plum, blackberry and dusty oak flavours of this full-bodied beauty.

25270    (XD)            750 mL    $17.95   

Jen Pfeiffer was a mere sprout when her wine education began. Exposed to wine and vineyards all her life, the fates had decided her career before she hit her teens. At the tender age of 26, she is perhaps the youngest female winemaker in Australia. Unlike her father, her co-winemaker, she likes a touch more oak with her ripe fruit. This Pinot Noir shows it can easily stand up to the increased oak exposure. The wine is dominated by ripe cherry, strawberry, toast and earth aromas and flavours. Perfect with planked salmon.

961219    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

ROSEMOUNT HILL OF GOLD CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2004
Mudgee, New South Wales  

TASTING NOTE: Medium- to full-bodied; loaded with cassis blackcurrant fruit; excellent, fine tannins and well-integrated oak. Gold Medal Sydney Wine Show '06. Score - 94. (James Halliday, Australian Wine Companion, 2007) 

614800    (XD)            750 mL    $22.95   

ROSEMOUNT HILL OF GOLD SHIRAZ  2004
Mudgee, New South Wales  

TASTING NOTE: Strong colour; well-made, with black fruits, chocolate, spice and earth; appropriate warm oak; good overall mouthfeel. Score - 93. (James Halliday, Australian Wine Companion, 2007) 

614784    (XD)            750 mL    $22.95   

The gnarly dudes in question are the rather fierce and twisted-looking old vines that gives us this wine's concentrated fruit. Winemaker Matt Wenk has a well-deserved reputation for creating a tightly focused Shiraz that emphasizes the dark cherry fruit while perfectly integrating the oak and tannins. This dude is ready to be enjoyed anytime over the next five years.

660043    (D)            750 mL    $24.95   

YALUMBA THE SIGNATURE CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SHIRAZ  2002
Barossa, South Australia  


TASTING NOTE: The 2002 The Signature (56% Cabernet Sauvignon and 44% Shiraz) was given the same upbringing as its young sibling, but 2002 is a better vintage for Yalumba. The 2002 exhibits smoky, blackberry, incense, charcoal, and floral characteristics along with tremendous glycerin, richness, purity, and teeth-staining levels of extract. Remarkably, there are no hard edges, and the acidity, tannin, and alcohol are beautifully integrated. This cuvee should drink well for 15 years. Score - 96. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006) 

528356    (XD)            750 mL    $44.95   

YALUMBA TRICENTENARY VINES GRENACHE  2003
Barossa Valley, South Australia  


TASTING NOTE: Lithe and immensely appealing for its lively pomegranate, cherry and dusky spice flavors, hinting at sage as the finish lingers. Drink now through 2011. Score - 90. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2005) 

588186    (XD)            750 mL    $30.95   

CLOUDY BAY CHARDONNAY  2005
Marlborough, South Island  

TASTING NOTE: With creamy vanillin oak, musk and a savoury complexity to the aroma, even a hint of mushroom, this is a deeply coloured and richly flavoured classy chardonnay with a citrussy backbone to the rich barrel-ferment flavours with toastiness balanced by zest that adds a lovely freshness. A mouth enveloping wine with a touch of caramel and excellent length. Very smart.
(Sue Courtney, www.wineoftheweek.com, May 13, 2007) 

359513    (XD)            750 mL    $39.95   

KIM CRAWFORD PINOT GRIS  2006
Marlborough, South Island  

TASTING NOTE: Ripe and intense, with very good depth to quince, green pear and lime flavors. Salt, green almond and stone notes linger, with dried lemon skin on the finish. Drink now. Score - 88. (Daniel Sogg, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2007) 

680983    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

GRAHAM BECK THE RIDGE SYRAH  2002
WO Robertson  


TASTING NOTE: 2002, last glimpsed ex-cask, has piercing mulberry fruit core, with mocha/woodsmoke spicing. A lesson in elegance, finesse, and harmonious tannins: iron fist in velvet glove. Has 7+ year future. [Aged for] 14 months [in] 70/30 French/American oak, 60% new. 14.2% alcohol. Score - **** ½ (out of 5). (Christine Rudman, John Platter South African Wines, 2005) 

607812    (XD)            750 mL    $26.95   

A Silver-Medal winner at the Michelangelo International Wine Awards in 2004. You'll love the ripe, wild berry flavours in this fresh and delicious Pinotage, South Africa's contribution to the wine world. If you can't get away this winter then open your doors to this world traveller.

37382    (XD)            750 mL    $14.95   

DOMAINES SCHLUMBERGER LES PRINCES ABBÉS PINOT GRIS  2005
AC Alsace  


TASTING NOTE: Round and fleshy, like biting into a fresh peach, this white also has a vibrant structure. A hint of apricot and smoke flavors enter on the finish. Drink now through 2010. Score - 87. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2007) 

21253    (D)            750 mL    $17.95   

HUGEL GEWURZTRAMINER VENDANGE TARDIVE  2001
AC Alsace  

TASTING NOTE: Open and round, this is harmonious and intense. Packed with floral, litchi and spice notes, it caresses the palate and leaves a grapefruit peel aftertaste. Fine length. Drink now through 2010. Score - 93. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2005) 

949495    (MS)            750 mL    $69.95   

HUGEL RIESLING VENDANGE TARDIVE  1996
AC Alsace  

TASTING NOTE: Like two different wines from the nose to the palate. A gorgeous bouquet of truffle, lemon candy, butter and dried tropical fruit introduces this racy, electric white. Quite dry, with the vivid acidity keeping it fresh and crisp. The exotic flavors return on the long finish. Very 1996. Drink now through 2020. Score - 95. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) 

954685    (D)            375 mL    $38.95   

LA MOYNERIE POUILLY-FUMÉ  2005
AC  
(Michel Redde et Fils)

TASTING NOTE: Quintessential Pouilly-Fumé, this shows the girth typical of these clay-heavy soils, along with a salty, smoky flintiness. Zesty flavors of lime peel and jalapeno are pungent yet balanced and harmonious, lingering with intense fragrance. Score - 93. (Wine & Spirits, April 2007) 

729178    (XD)            750 mL    $26.95   

This is a delicious, gentle, medium-dry Chenin Blanc from the superb 2005 vintage. Look for delightful honeyed aromas, a lush palate packed with apple and citrus fruit as well as nutty notes leading to a long, rich finish. A terrific value, this wine would be great now as an aperitif or served with spicy Asian dishes, but it will continue to develop over the next 5-10 years.

57018    (MD)            750 mL    $15.95   

CHÂTEAU DE CANDALE  2000
AC Haut-Médoc  
(S.C. du Chateau D'Issan)


TASTING NOTE: From the Cruse family of the Margaux grand cru Château d'Issan, this simple Haut-Médoc wine rivals many much pricier Bordeaux, with its classic combination of plum and black-cherry fruitiness; classic Bordeaux. (Richard Nalley, www.foodandwine.com, March 2005) 

43679    (XD)            750 mL    $35.95   

CHÂTEAU FAUGÈRES  2001
AC St-Émilion Grand Cru  
(GFA C&P Guisez Propriétaires)


TASTING NOTE: A sleeper of the vintage produced by this superbly run property, proprietor Corrine Guisez has turned out a 2001 nearly as good as the 2000. It possesses an inky/ruby/purple color as well as superb aromas of creosote, blackberries, currants, and licorice. This dense, medium-bodied St.-Emilion displays striking purity, remarkable elegance, and loads of flavor and texture. As it sits in the glass, additional notes of melted licorice and smoky cassis fruit become apparent. Drink this beauty now and over the next decade. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, June 2004) 

46748    (XD)            750 mL    $51.95   

CHÂTEAU LA CARDONNE  2000
AC Médoc, Cru Bourgeois  


TASTING NOTE: Lovely aromas of crushed berries, chocolate and smoke follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a clean finish. Well-done. Best after 2005. Score - 89. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2007) 

980417    (XD)            750 mL    $26.95   

CHÂTEAU LA LOUVIÈRE  2003
AC Pessac-Léognan  
(André Lurton)


TASTING NOTE: Lovely mouth feel, cedar, pencil lead and currant flavours; very tasty. (Tony Aspler, www.tonyaspler.com, March 29, 2007) 

931394    (XD)            750 mL    $49.95   

This Bordeaux epitomizes great value from what many consider a perfect vintage. A blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, this luscious red presents aromas and flavours of ripe plum and cherry fruit and strikes a fine balance between its fruit, tannins and oak. Exquisite with herb-encrusted leg of lamb.

51417    (XD)            750 mL    $34.95   

Château Roland La Garde produces some of the best wines of the appellation. Owner Bruno Martin plants more densely than his neighbours, relying on a high proportion of Merlot (78 percent) because he finds Cabernet Franc "too hard" in his clay-loam soil. He uses Malbec for colour, concentration and a black pepper note. (Tony Aspler, www.tonyaspler.com, Feb. 27, 2003) The Tradition blend is 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon.

46565    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

Christian Moueix developed a series of 'signature' wines. This is his Merlot-based Pomerol. In Moueix's mind, this wine demonstrates Pomerol's terroir perfectly. Pomerol is known for its small yields, tiny production and opulent wines with, usually, equally luxurious prices to match. This wine captures the style at a fraction of the cost.

903013    (XD)            750 mL    $25.95   

CHÂTEAU DE BEAUCASTEL CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE  2005
AC  
(Vignobles Pierre Perrin)

TASTING NOTE: The 2005 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape ... exhibits a deep purple color and a sweet nose of blackberry, licorice, pepper, Chinese black tea, and considerable spice box and truffle. The wine is medium to full-bodied, and has terrific weight, richness, and moderately high tannins and crisp acidity. Like most 2005s in Chateauneuf du Pape, there is weight, power, richness, but also lots of vibrancy and delineation because of the fresh acids. This wine will require patience, and 4-5 years of cellaring is recommended, perhaps even longer. It will keep for 20+ years. Score - (93-95). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) 

711317    (XD)            750 mL    $91.95   

CHÂTEAU DE LA GARDINE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE  2004
AC  
(G. Brunel et Fils)

TASTING NOTE: The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape is actually one of the more forward wines La Gardine has made in a number of years. It is dark ruby, has excellent chocolatey pain grille notes intermixed with espresso, sweet cherry, and blackberry. The wine is soft, deep, with excellent purity and should drink nicely for up to a decade. Score - 89. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) 

604124    (D)            750 mL    $35.95   

Created in 1861, Domaine Michelas-St. Jemms owns over 36 ha in Crozes-Hermitage. The majority of its vineyards are on hills and have to be hand-harvested. This is Syrah strictly according to type: blackberry, pepper, tar and smoked bacon aromas with a full, spicy palate, integrated tannins and long finish. Try serving with grilled sausage now or stick it in the cellar for two to three years.

43158    (XD)            750 mL    $23.95   

A Silver-Medal winner at the prestigious Concours Mondial de Bruxelles in 2007. Discover why Telavi Wine Cellars' estate-grown, medal-winning wines were so popular in Russia. This red offers lovely aromas of cherry, blackberry and blackcurrant and its palate is silky with nicely integrated oak. Terrific with hearty stews and mature cheeses.

48116    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   

The Reichsgraf Von Kesselstatt estates originated with the purchase of the family's first vineyard in 1349. Over the centuries, the estate has acquired prized vineyard sites throughout the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer region, including a section of the well-known Ockfener Bockstein vineyard along the Saar River. The 2005 vintage of this fresh and focussed Kabinett is so outstanding, it won a Gold Medal at the 2007 International Wine Challenge.

606202    (MD)            750 mL    $20.95   

Our Quality Assurance laboratory has determined that this organic wine contains 20 mg/l of free sulphur.

'This wine of Cirò is the purest nectar', wrote novelist Norman Douglas in his travel book Old Calabria, published in 1915. Today, it is still equally delicious. Calabria, located in south-west Italy, is part of the ancient Greek wine region known as Oenotria.

52332    (D)            750 mL    $16.95   

Paolo Scavino established this Langhe winery in 1921 and it is now run by his son, Enrico, who is a leader in modernization and quality in Barolo. Scavino's stylish Barolos typically feature modern floral and tea notes and purple fruit flavours balanced by pleasing acidity. They can be enjoyed now but will reward 5+ years in a cellar.

50807    (XD)            750 mL    $55.95   

In 1985, flanked by his wife, Marilena, and their sons, Silvio and Paolo, Federico Grasso embarked on his quest to produce wines of absolute quality. This aspiration has placed his ten-hectare estate with an annual production of around 70,000 bottles firmly at the forefront of wine, both in Langhe and beyond. Federico's philosophy is to remain faithful to the territory, a principle that firmly underpins his work ... (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines 2007)

50682    (XD)            750 mL    $49.95   

ANTINORI SOLAIA  2003
IGT Toscana  

TASTING NOTE: The 2003 Solaia (75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese and 5% Cabernet Franc) reveals the essence of blackberry jam, licorice, cassis, tar and minerals in a super-ripe, heady expression of the vintage. Richly sumptuous on the palate, this beautiful, expansive Solaia offers terrific length as well as stunning balance with plenty of style. It is sure to deliver much gratification over the next decade or so. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. Score - 93. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, June 2007) 

987586    (XD)            750 mL    $149.95   

CASTELLO DI AMA CHIANTI CLASSICO  2004
DOCG  

TASTING NOTE: The 2004 Chianti Classico is a very serious Chianti. Livelier in color and more expressive in its aromatics than the 2003, it exhibits a nuanced personality, with notes of dark cherries, licorice and minerals that open up in the glass. It offers outstanding length on the palate and fine yet broad tannins that will require a few years to come together. A bottle of the 2001 tasted alongside it was just entering the early part of its drinking window. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. Score - 90. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, June 2007) 

39768    (XD)            750 mL    $47.95   

Our Quality Assurance Laboratory has determined that this organic wine contains 13 mg/l of free sulphur.

TASTING NOTE: ... For some consumers the jury is still out on organic wines - are they really tasty? The Natio is. It's a lovely ruby-hue with mint-cherry, sweet beet aromas and raspberry notes. In the mouth it's fresh and juicy with bright berry fruit flavours, leather, tobacco and spice - a bit choppy on the palate but a truly refreshing, lighter-bodied red with only 12.5% alcohol! (Daenna Van Mulligan, www.winediva.ca, Sept. 1, 2007) 

56903    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   

CELLOLE CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA  2004
DOCG  
(San Fabiano Calcinaia)


Using Sangiovese sourced from San Fabiano's estate vineyards and a small amount of Merlot (5%), this wine spends 21 months ageing in second- and third-use oak barrels and 3 months of further ageing in bottle before it is released. With aromas of fresh flowers and ripe fruit as well as hints of herbs and mineral, this dry, medium-bodied red is packed with concentrated fruit flavour balanced by zesty acidity. Enjoy it with veal parmigiana, roast pork or lamb.

56945    (XD)            750 mL    $31.95   

LUCE DELLE VITE  2004
IGT Toscana  

TASTING NOTE: Aromas of flowers, berry and light perfume. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a clean finish. A pretty, balanced red. Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best after 2007. Score - 88. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) 

685263    (XD)            750 mL    $99.95   

The 1.5 L size of this wine is also available in this release. (46847)

TASTING NOTE: Made in a super-ripe style, the deeply-colored 2001 Brunello di Montalcino presents attractive suggestions of earthiness, dark fruit, chocolate and new oak. It is a juicy, ample wine that should drink well relatively early. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. Score - 90. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2006) 

922054    (XD)            750 mL    $49.95   

Monte Zovo's Ripasso exhibits all the hallmarks of the wine style: rich plum and almond aromas, intensified flavours and a long, full-flavoured finish. Enjoy with rich beef or lamb dishes.

23523    (D)            750 mL    $19.95   

CASTELLO DI AMA ROSATO  2006
IGT Toscana  

TASTING NOTE: One of the best Tuscan rosatos comes from Castello di Ama, the noted Chianti producer; the 2006 is especially fresh and lively. (www.foodandwine.com, Sept. 2007) 

39800    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

The prime grape in this blend is Tinta Roriz, the Douro name for Spanish Tempranillo. The Port grapes Touriga Nacional and Francesa bring a juicy vibrancy to this cedary, delicious wine. It is richly fruited with lively tannins providing structure. Decant a bottle and enjoy it with rare roast beef.

684753    (XD)            750 mL    $17.95   

Made with indigenous grape varieties, this is a unique offering from Casas Santos Lima in Portugal. It displays delicious dark berry fruit aromas with distinct notes of cinnamon and chocolate which all echo beautifully on the palate. Excellent with vegetable and chicken paella.

50930    (XD)            750 mL    $13.95   

HERENCIA REMONDO LA MONTESA  2004
DOCa Rioja  
(Bodegas Palacios Remondo)

TASTING NOTE: The vineyards at Bodegas Palacios Remondo, located in the Rioja Baja D.O., are organically farmed and the wines are bottled unfiltered and unfined. The 2004 Crianza "Montesa" is a blend of 45% Tempranillo, 40% Garnacha, and 15% Graciano and Mazuelo with aging in French oak. It is an elegant example of Rioja with smoky red currant, cherry and herbal aromas and flavors, ripe, silky tannins and a lengthy finish. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. Score - 88. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) 

674572    (XD)            750 mL    $21.95   

Made from Bobal (50%), Tempranillo (20%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (30%), this Spanish red offers nothing less than an aromatic explosion of red and black berries with notes of roasted herbs and oak all of which repeat splendidly on a well-balanced palate. A great match for roasted meats or smoked sausages.

39917    (XD)            750 mL    $18.95   

Winemaker María José López de Heredia is proud to adhere strictly to 100-year-old family traditions. These include, among other things, using only the winery's own hand-picked grapes, and racking by hand using oak funnels. Bosconia, named for the vineyard from which the grapes are sourced, ages a minimum of 36 months in oak barrels then a further 3 to 5 years in bottle before release. It is made only in the very finest vintages.

529586    (XD)            750 mL    $34.95   

TINTO PESQUERA CRIANZA  2004
DO Ribera del Duero  
(Bodegas Alejandro Fernández)


TASTING NOTE: Deep ruby. Ripe blackberry and plum on the nose, with an almost roasted quality. Then bright, sweet and fresh on the palate, with vibrant blackberry and cassis flavors, notes of minerals and licorice and a silky texture. For such depth and power of flavor there's striking purity and finesse. Sweet, energetic and persistent on the finish, with an endless procession of fresh dark berry flavors. A wonderful vintage for this wine. Score - 92. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, Sept./Oct. 2006) 

341461    (XD)            750 mL    $27.95   

This Gran Reserva won a Silver Medal at the 2006 Mundus Vini international wine competition. The nose is intense, with dark fruit, spice, and vanilla aromas. The palate is powerful and rich culminating in a long finish of ripe fruit and polished tannins. With all the work of cellaring done for you already, this is an outstanding value at this price.

The grapes that make up the Signature Chardonnay come from vineyards in Puligny, Meursault, Chassagne, Auxey-Duresses, Saint-Romain and Mâcon. This wine serves up a modern approach to Chardonnay, with an abundance of fruit up front, a round, rich palate, and lots of style. Try it with warm chicken salad or as an aperitif.

DOMAINE JEAN COLLET & FILS CHABLIS VAILLONS  2005
AC, 1^er Cru  


TASTING NOTE: Pain grillé and brioche serve as a backdrop for the spicy and ripe yellow fruit aromas that precede racy, intense and pungently mineral flavors that possess terrific cut, fine detail and excellent persistence and punch. If there is a nit it's that this is not overly complex at present but that may come with time in bottle. Drink 2009+.  Score - 88-90. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, Oct. 2006)
 
650804    (XD)            750 mL    $30.95   

WILLIAM FEVRE CHABLIS MONTMAINS  2005
AC, 1^er Cru  


TASTING NOTE: Pale, green-tinged color. Enticing aromas of lime and mint. Juicy, sweet and easygoing, with an enveloping attack and lovely inner-palate sweetness of citrus and pineapple fruit. Elegant, lacy wine that remains quite supple despite its firm mineral spine. ...Fevre owns parcels in all three climats of Montmains, with Butteaux bringing mineral character, Foret elegance and Montmains fat and richness.  Score - 89. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Nov./Dec. 2006)
 
977587    (XD)            750 mL    $32.95   

MAISON CHAMPY PERNAND-VERGELESSES  2005
AC  


TASTING NOTE: This too is very fresh and deftly oaked with pretty and airy green fruit aromas and round, sweet and forward flavors that offer a nice nugget of finishing complexity. I like this as it delivers balanced punch and intensity in a relatively understated style. Drink 2008+.  Score - 88. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, July 1, 2007)
 
8151    (XD)            750 mL    $29.95   

DOMAINE BOUCHARD PÈRE & FILS MEURSAULT GENEVRIÈRES  2005
AC, 1^er Cru  


TASTING NOTE: Sappy aromas of peach, apple and mint. Suave, broad and generous; a fat, full Genevrieres with just enough acidity to frame its sweet fruit. Impressive rising finish shows excellent breadth and persistence. Made from a combination of estate vines planted in 1976 and a parcel purchased from Ropiteau, which was planted in 1975 and brings healthier acidity.  Score - 90-93. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 2006)
 
705970    (XD)            750 mL    $89.95   

Maison Champy is one of a group of small, quality conscious négociants (merchants who buy wines or grapes from winemakers/growers and create their own wines) who are currently releasing a wonderful collection of wines, including this raspberry-, cherry drop- and beetroot-scented example. Enjoy this supple, charming, flattering, almost New World-style wine with barbecued salmon.

DOMAINE BOUCHARD PÈRE & FILS BEAUNE DU CHÂTEAU  2005
AC, 1^er Cru  


TASTING NOTE: The fruit character is slightly riper with relatively moderate oak influence that serves to highlight the red berry fruit and delicious but serious flavors that are clearly fashioned in a more forward and accessible style.  Score - 89. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, April 1, 2007)
 
901199    (XD)            750 mL    $41.95   

LOUIS JADOT BEAUNE BOUCHEROTTES  2005
AC, 1^er Cru  


TASTING NOTE: This is finer and more elegant still with airy intense red berry fruit aromas that are in perfect keeping with the sweet, supple and beautifully precise flavors that manage to retain that very Beaune quality of generosity on the perfectly balanced, long and pure finish. A striking effort and recommended. Sweet spot Outstanding! Drink 2013+.  Score - 90-92. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, April 2007) 

47837    (XD)            750 mL    $47.95   

DOMAINE BOUCHARD PÈRE & FILS NUITS-SAINT-GEORGES LES CAILLES  2005
AC, 1^er Cru  


TASTING NOTE: Outstanding. An even riper nose of violets, cassis and black cherry aromas marries well with rich, full and seductive flavors that possess good focus and power as well as a velvety, indeed even silky mouth feel. A balanced, harmonious and deep offering that should age well for a long time. Drink 2015+.  Score - 91-94. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, April 2007)
 
974014    (XD)            750 mL    $104.95   

CHÂTEAU DE LA TOUR CLOS-VOUGEOT  2005
AC, Grand Cru  
(J. Labet & N. Déchelette)


TASTING NOTE: A deeply pitched and very ripe nose of earthy violet aromas trimmed in subtle wood spice notes introduces rich, full and powerful flavors that possess excellent mid-palate sap that helps to buffer the very firm and dense tannic spine on the youthfully austere finish. This is a very serious no-nonsense wine clearly built for long aging. Drink: 2019+.  Score - 91-93. Jan. 1, 2007)
 
43265    (XD)            750 mL    $144.95   

Here's power and finesse at an incredible value. d'Arenberg's popular Shiraz/Grenache blend is packed with vibrant blackberry, cherry and cassis flavours balanced by fine tannins and focused acidity. This big bottle is perfect for the holiday party or the holiday feast. The popular 750 mL size is always available in our Essentials Collection (942904, $19.95).

661595    (XD)            1500 mL    $39.95   

Looking for an icon? d'Arenberg's flagship Shiraz sets the benchmark year after year for the entire McLaren Vale region. A consistent favourite of Robert Parker's, the 2004 vintage scored a whopping 95 points for its "... glorious perfume of creosote/melted road tar, blackberry and cassis liqueur, pepper, and spice ... it is the finest Dead Arm since the 2001". (www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006)

37283    (XD)            1500 mL    $119.95   

Year after year, this hearty Cab offers excellent value. Rich purple in colour it offers ripe cherry and black currant aromas. Dry, medium full-bodied, with medium tannins and a lengthy finish, this tasty Cab is an excellent match for roast beef or lamb. Bring out this big gun for a big gathering. We are also featuring the 750 mL bottle, a wine from our VINTAGES Essentials Collection, in this release (656561).

16915    (XD)            1500 mL    $39.95   

Joseph Phelps is one of Napa Valley's most highly regarded wineries. Robert Parker Jr. awarded this quintessential Napa Cab a score of 90, commenting: "possesses loads of up-front fruit, soft tannins". (www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2006) This big boy is a great wine to serve with a robust roast beef or lamb dinner over the holidays. We also have the half-bottle size (036939).

36921    (XD)            1500 mL    $179.95   

Antonio Galloni, the Italian wine expert for Robert Parker Jr.'s Wine Advocate (Dec. 2006) awarded 90 points to this Tuscan treasure for its "...attractive suggestions of earthiness, dark fruit, chocolate and new oak..." It's just coming into its own now but will age well for another decade or more. The 750 mL size is also available in this release (922054).

This ripping Ripasso would make an impressive centrepiece at the family feast. It's loaded with plentiful red and black fruit upfront, with intriguing elements of tar, chocolate, licorice and coffee. Full-bodied and rich, this Ripasso would go well with grilled steak. The 750 mL size is always available through our Essentials Collection (479766, $22.95)

43554    (D)            3000 mL    $127.95   

Interlaced with aromas and flavours of chocolate, this petite-sized bottle of Wolfie Shiraz is a must have for those nights when you and your mate have a mad craving for a feast of backribs. The 750 mL size bottle is always available from VINTAGES Essentials Collection (348540, $ 24.95).

662122    (XD)            375 mL    $12.95   

Robert Parker Jr. gave this classic Cali Cab from one of Napa Valley's most esteemed wineries a score of 90, commenting "possesses loads of up-front fruit, soft tannins". (www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2006) This petite version is a great to enjoy with someone who appreciates the finer things in life. When it's a question of 'the more the merrier', we also have the magnum size (036921).

36939    (XD)            375 mL    $39.95          

This revered wine from the Southern Rhône is a favourite of wine guru Robert Parker Jr. This latest vintage scored 93-95 points for its "... sweet nose of blackberry, licorice, pepper, Chinese black tea, and considerable spice box and truffle". (www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) Perfect for the collector, it will continue to evolve over the next 15-20 years. The 750 mL bottle is also available in this release (711317)

968750    (XD)            375 mL    $47.95   

Antinori's legendary 'Tig' would make a terrific gift for the wine enthusiast in your life. Antonio Galloni, the Italian wine expert for Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (June 2007) awarded the 2004 vintage 93 points. He described it as "...deeply expressive, it reveals black cherries, licorice, tar and sweet toasted oak on a linear, silky-textured frame of great class and elegance ...". The 750 mL is always available in our Essentials Collection (986786, $ 89.95).

677336    (XD)            375 mL    $56.95   

This "is a very serious Chianti ...it exhibits a nuanced personality, with notes of dark cherries, licorice and minerals that open up in the glass". Antonio Galloni, the Italian wine expert for Robert Parker Jr.'s Wine Advocate awarded it 90 points (June 2007). Enjoy with a Moroccan spiced lamb dish. If you need more, we also have the 750 mL bottle in this release (039768)

39750    (XD)            375 mL    $26.95   

The half-bottle size of this Ripasso is perfect for two. It's loaded with plentiful red and black fruit upfront, with intriguing elements of tar, chocolate, licorice and coffee serve with grilled steak or venison. The 750 mL size is always available through our Essentials Collection (479766, $22.95) and for larger affairs we have the double magnum in this release (43554).

43547    (D)            375 mL    $13.95   

This half-bottle from the Sonoma sub-appellation of Knights Valley is a perfect example of how Beringer excels with Cab. Robert Parker Jr. hailed this as "outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon" awarding it a score of 90 points for its "...outstanding purity, depth, and ripeness in an open- knit, fruit-driven but deep style..." (www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2005)

595652    (XD)            375 mL    $22.95   

This petite variety pack of Inniskillin's three outstanding Icewines is a great way to sample and compare varietal styles of Canada's gift to the wine world. Which is your favourite? The intense peach and spice flavours of the Vidal, the luscious raspberry and strawberry flavours of the full-bodied Cabernet Franc or the ripe, tropical fruit and honey notes of the deftly balanced Riesling. It also makes a great stocking stuffer for the wine-loving sweetie in your life.

661157    (S)            3 x 50 mL    $29.95     

From an outstanding vintage, this scrumptious, exotic Tokaji (pronounced Toe-Kai) delights with aromas of fresh marmalade and candied citrus along with a hint of minerality. The sweetness is perfectly balanced by a fine seam of acidity. It's the ideal match for duck foie gras or well-aged cheeses.

972836    (S)            250 mL    $19.95   

This hip-flask bottle of Poli Sarpa's Grappa is a unique gift idea for spirit lovers. Above and beyond the attractive packaging, this traditional grappa is known for its grapey aromas, ripe, fruity palate, with a touch of sweetness and warm, refined finish.

54924    100 mL    $15.95  

What's more romantic than a dinner for two with Champagne? Quite lively and complex, this food-friendly fizz has layered aromas and flavours of freshly baked bread, nuts, honey and crisp green apples all leading to a lingering finish. We also have the 750 mL size in this release (919464)

919456    (XD)            375 mL    $19.95   

You don't need a gold card to enjoy this half-bottle of Drappier Carte d'Or Brut. Refined with a delicate floral nose, this beautifully textured fizz has terrific structure and would match nicely with oysters, sushi or sashimi. Who you share it with is up to you.

40576    (XD)            375 mL    $21.95   

Sunday Brunch for two? This delightfully light and effervescent Moscato with its wonderful grapey aromas and delicate touch of sweetness is perfect with biscotti or fresh fruit. Now that's amore!

650440    (MS)            375 mL    $12.95   

This splendid bubbly is similar to Pol Roger's traditional Brut Reserve, except it's given a sweeter dosage. The touch of sweetness is balanced by a refreshing streak of acidity making it an excellent match for spicy dishes as well as the perfect toasting fizz.

739904    (MD)            375 mL    $33.95   

This delicious bubbly comes from one of California's leading producers of sparkling wine. Wine Spectator (Dec. 15, 2006) awarded it 90 points, praising it as "... smooth, rich and creamy, revealing layers of black cherry, vanilla and ginger, with a hint of lemon drop ..." Perfect for toasting that special someone.

53504    (D)            375 mL    $11.95