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| Spirits - July 23 Release |
| Eau-de-Vie |
| 680793 TSILILI TSIPOURO 2004 $ 27.95 |
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700 mL |
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| Tsipouro is to Greece, what grappa is to Italy. Made in the same way as grappa, water is combined with the must leftover from winemaking and distilled. Legend suggests that monks first created tsipouro in the 14th century. This is best enjoyed chilled as a digestif after a fine meal. |
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| New at Vintages |
| 88609 METAXA GRANDE FINE VERY OLD $ 89.95 |
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700 mL |
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| Metaxa makes something more than just brandy. Connoisseurs consider Metaxa Grande Fine a unique product on par with Cognac. This exceptional 15-year-old (on average) product is made by twice distilling Savatiano, Sultanina and Black Corinth grape juice. It is then married with aged Muscat wine from Samos and Lemnos. Finally, it's blended with a secret botanical mix then aged in French oak casks. Serve neat after dinner. The exquisitely-designed bottle would make a striking addition to any table. |
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| 677393 METAXA PRIVATE RESERVE $ 124.95 |
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w/Gift Box 700 mL |
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| Expressions of admiration such as "The Elixir of Life", "The Nectar of the Gods" and "The Blessed Spirit" have accompanied Metaxa from its birth in 1888 until the present (adapted from www.greekproducts.com). The loving care given this distillate gives credence to the raptorous phrases above. Made with distillates up to 30 years old, this Greek grape-based spirit is made in very small quantities - only 5000 bottles for this run - and is beautifully crafted. Every bottle from each distillation is numbered. |
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| 721050 ISSIDOROS ARVANITIS OUZO PLOMARI $ 21.95 |
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Lesvos 700 mL |
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| The Greeks use ouzo in the same manner the French use pastis. Both cultures add chilled water, giving it a beautiful milky quality. Enjoy it after a meal or even as a sipping drink over conversation on a warm evening. Plomari is considered one of Greece's top ouzos. |
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| Tequila |
| 924274 CORAZÓN TEQUILA BLANCO $ 99.95 |
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100% de Agave, Mexico 750 mL |
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| The pretty thin, long-necked bottle is only the start here, because the Tequila within is as attractive as the packaging. |
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| Tasting note: Corazón Blanco and Reposado are the highest rated tequilas for their category in the year 2000, achieving exceptional quality and distinctive merit. Corazón Blanco is the highest rated blanco tequila ever by the BTI (Beverage Testing Institute, 2000). |
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| Rum |
| 709949 COCKSPUR 'OLD GOLD' SPECIAL RESERVE FINE RUM $ 31.95 |
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Barbados 750 mL |
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| A Silver-Medal winner at the 2002 International Wine and Spirits Competition, this unique product is made by blending light-bodied double-distilled rum with fuller bodied pot still rum that has spent time in second-use bourbon barrels. It is then finished by adding coral spring water. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks or in mixed drinks. |
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| Liqueur |
| 119164 BACARDI 'NASSAU ROYALE' $ 28.95 |
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Bahamas (S) 750 mL |
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| A taste of the Bahamas in a bottle. Enjoy it poured over bowls of fresh fruit or in a cocktail such as this. |
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| BAHAMA MAMA |
1 1/4 oz (35 mL) gold rum
1 1/2 oz (43 mL) Nassau Royale
2 oz (55 mL) orange juice
2 oz (55 mL) pineapple juice
Dash of bitters
In a tall glass add ice and then above ingredients. Stir. (adapted from www.markmulligan.net/newsletter) |
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| Spirits - August 6 Release |
| Scotch Whisky |
981084 'ROBERT BURNS WORLD FEDERATION' ARRAN ISLAND
SINGLE MALT $ 49.95 |
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700 mL
(Isle of Arran Distillers) |
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This is the only Scotch legally permitted to use Robbie Burns' name and likeness on its product.
Scotches don't have to be enjoyed only out of a glass. Visit Isle of Arran's website's 'recipes' link at www.arranwhisky.com for a selection of recipes that can be made with this fine libation.
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| 642199 'THE ARRAN MALT' ARRAN ISLAND SINGLE MALT $ 48.95 |
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700 mL
(Isle of Arran Distillers) |
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Tasting note: A floral-honey whisky with mild vanilla and citrus underpinnings, moves into a full velvet cream feel on the palate with caramel and drying spice. Score - 89. (Patricia Noonan, Wine Access, 'First In Line' E-Report', June 2003) |
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643478 'THE ARRAN MALT' NON CHILL-FILTERED ARRAN ISLAND
SINGLE MALT $ 59.95 |
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700 mL
(Isle of Arran Distillers) |
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| Opened in 1995, Isle of Arran Distillers created a floodgate of interest in building new distilleries. None of the other new ones have opened yet, but until they do, Isle of Arran continues to hold the distinction of being Scotland's newest distillery. Chill-filtering supposedly helps to add clarity and brightness to the finished product. Although the other two Isle of Arran Scotches in this release (this page) are chill-filtered, this one is not. The argument is that chill-filtering can remove some of the character from the finished product. See for yourself by purchasing this non-chillfiltered and one or both of the other two. Is there a taste difference? You be the judge. |
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| Fruit & Fortified Wine - July 23 Release |
| Sherry |
| 944710 DELGADO ZULETA 'LA GOYA' MANZANILLA $ 15.95 |
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(XD) 750 mL |
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| Established in 1719, Delgado Zuleta is one of the oldest Sherry firms in Jerez. It is still run by the descendants of the original family. Chilled, their Manzanilla is an excellent match for some of the tangier goat cheeses, especially Monte Enebro. |
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| Dessert Wine |
| 653824 'ANTHEMIS' $ 11.95 |
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Samos AO, Muscat Wine (S) 375 mL
(Union Des Cooperatives Vinicoles de Samos) |
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| This wine is made from fruit sourced from semi-mountainous vineyards. It is then aged for five years in oak. During its ageing it acquires an attractive amber color with what the cooperative's literature accurately describes as "chestnut blonde" on the edge. (www.greekwinemakers.com). Anthemis is adapted from the Greek word anthosmia that means 'flower smell', an accurate descriptor for Samos wines. Our panel found this wine 'super charged' with flavour. |
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| 709873 ANDRÉ PETIT PINEAU DES CHARENTES 2002 $ 17.95 |
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'Sélection', Cognac, France (MD) 750 mL |
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| Pineau des Charentes is a terrific summertime aperitif made by adding fresh grape juice to Cognac. Serve it chilled as a digestif or sip it while in the midst of an enthralling conversation. |
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| Sparkling Wines - July 23 Release |
| 680686 BAILLY LAPIERRE CRÉMANT DE BOURGOGNE CHARDONNAY 2001 $ 19.95 |
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AC, Burgundy, France (D) 750 mL |
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| With this attractive Burgundian sparkling wine the source grape, Chardonnay, is very apparent on the nose. Our panel found aromas of green apple, lemon, pear and the tell-tale sign of a well-made fizz: biscuit. Bring this out at the start of a meal to refresh everybody's palate. |
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| 738542 VILLA SANDI 'CUVÉE' PROSECCO DI VALDOBBIADENE $ 18.95 |
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DOC, Veneto, Italy (XD) 750 mL |
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| Proseccos are traditionally enjoyed either as an aperitif before a meal or as a palate refresher between courses. The aromatics are fresh with hints of pear and citrus. Chill it down and check it out. |
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| Champagne & Sparkling Wines - August 6 Release |
| Champagne |
| 983874 LAURENT-PERRIER BRUT CHAMPAGNE 1996 $ 64.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Pale color. Concentrated, somewhat exotic nose offers strong soil tones: minerals, flint, oyster liquor and mint. Then brisk and creamy in the mouth, with the strong acids of the vintage giving the concentrated lemon, mineral and spice flavors terrific penetration. Quite incisive but not hard or lean. Finishes long, lemony and brisk. Score – 91. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Nov./Dec. 2004) |
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| Sparkling Wine |
| New at VINTAGES |
| 656488 YVES LAMBERT CRÉMANT DE LOIRE ROSÉ BRUT $ 17.95 |
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Loire Valley, France (XD) 750 mL |
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| Tasting note: Made with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon juice, this salmon pink-coloured fizz has very attractive strawberry/raspberry, spice and dried flower aromas and flavours. A light-bodied sparkler that will complement seafood salads or grilled salmon. (Vintages panel, Nov. 2004) |
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Wine by country - July 23 Release
| Ontario |
| VINTAGES VQA Discovery |
| 694422 BIRCHWOOD ESTATE CABERNET FRANC 2002 $ 14.95 |
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VQA Niagara Peninsula (D) 750 mL |
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Birchwood Estate is a small, dynamic winery located 2 km south of the Beamsville Bench. They've had great success with both red and white wines, including what many consider a contender for Ontario's flagship red grape: Cabernet Franc.
Tasting note: Pale ruby colour with lively aromas of cran-raspberry, sweet herbs and a slight hint of toast. A light-bodied, very enjoyable summertime red that would benefit from a light chill. Enjoy with oily fish, such as salmon, or also pan-fried freshwater fish. (VINTAGES panel, May 2005) |
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| California |
| New at VINTAGES |
| 658070 CAMELOT MERLOT 2001 $ 13.95 |
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California (D) 750 mL |
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| According to the Wine Spectator (Sept. 14, 2004), this Merlot is one of the best values out of California in the 2001 vintage. This fruit-forward wine is remarkably well-balanced. It proves you can find something nice for short to mid-term cellaring without spending beaucoup bucks.
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| Wine of the Month |
| 655209 VIÑA LA ROSA 'LA CAPITANA' MERLOT 2003 $ 14.95 |
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Estate Grown, Barrel Reserve, Cachapoal Valley (XD) 750 mL |
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| This luscious 2003 Merlot is a prime example of Chile's superb quality. It has won medals at many prestigious events, including a Gold Medal at Decanter's 2004 World Wine Awards. Our panel was impressed with this wine's deep inky colour and its complex and generous aromas of cherries and berry fruit. It's medium full-bodied with a silky and seductive mouth feel and more ripe fruit flavours including some light currant notes and a touch of oak. One glass and you will gladly become one of 'La Capitana's' loyal crew.
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| 651380 BALDIVIS ESTATE CHARDONNAY 2001 $ 14.95 |
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Western Australia (D) 750 mL
(Margaret River Wine Production Ltd.) |
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Tasting note: A tropical fruit bath that carries to the mouth and adds a hefty dose of mandarin orange. This fruity wine holds right through the finish. (Rick Van Sickle, Calgary Sun, March 6, 2005) |
| Exceptional Value |
| 566877 ANGOVE'S 'RED BELLY BLACK' SHIRAZ 2002 $ 16.95 |
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South Australia (XD) 750 mL |
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This wine is named in honour of the Red-bellied black snake that is indigenous to south-eastern Australia where, for over a century, the Angove family has crafted fine quality wines.
Tasting note: . Aromas of black cherry, raspberry, toasted herbs and a whiff of coffee cream. Good fruit extract on the palate with a touch of sweetness. Good acidity with sound tannic structure. Good length. Drink 2005-2009. Score - 88. (Jefferson Davis, Wine Access, 'First In Line E-Report', Jan. 2005) |
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| 981183 D'ARENBERG 'THE DEAD ARM' SHIRAZ 2002 $ 54.95 |
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McLaren Vale, South Australia (D) 750 mL |
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| The Aussie legend returns. A plethora of rich and complex aromas and flavours intermingle in this wine. Harvey Steiman of Wine Spectator called it a ". plush, heady mouthful", scoring 92. (www.winespectator.com, Dec. 31, 2004). May be enjoyed now with rare cuts of meat, however it will definitely reward ageing of 3-15 years.
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656637 WATER WHEEL 'MEMSIE' SHIRAZ/CABERNET
SAUVIGNON/MALBEC 2003 $ 15.95 |
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Bendigo, Victoria (XD) 750 mL |
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Tasting note: This wine has special appeal, with its powerful but restrained array of dark, black fruits; overall firm structure and tannins around a core of sweetness. Score - 90. (James Halliday, www.winepros.com, Jan. 1, 2005) |
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| 677450 DOG POINT VINEYARD SAUVIGNON BLANC 2004 $ 19.95 |
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Marlborough, South Island (XD) 750 mL |
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Tasting note: Bright and zingy. The brilliant flare of lemon, lime, mineral and pear flavors keeps dancing as the finish rolls on and on. An expressive style that finds the elusive balance between racy acidity and expressive fruit. Drink now. Score - 91. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2005)
Food match: spiced shrimp dishes. |
| 586107 MATUA 'MATHESON' CABERNET SAUVIGNON/MERLOT 2002 $ 19.95 |
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Hawkes Bay, North Island (XD) 750 mL |
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| The fruit for this wine was sourced from a region of Hawkes Bay called the Ngatarawa Triangle. The minerally rich red soil is renowned for producing high quality red wine grapes, especially the Bordeaux varieties. The Cabernet brings a ripe, spicy plum and currant profile, while the Merlot delivers an elegant softness. Enjoy with grilled lamb or steaks.
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| New at VINTAGES |
| 586123 MILLS REEF MERLOT RESERVE 2003 $ 25.95 |
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Hawkes Bay, North Island (XD) 750 mL |
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In 2004, Mills Reef Winery received the New Zealand Winemaker of the Year Award from the prestigious Winestate Magazine. To win the award, the winery must exhibit a consistent high quality in their entire range of wines. Father/son winemaking team, Paddy and Tim Preston, have demonstrated that ability throughout the life of this winery.
Tasting note: Grown in the company's Mere Road vineyard [planted in 1997-1998], in the Gimblett Gravels district, was blended with 20% Cabernet Franc . ripe and flavoursome, with savoury, earthy, nutty complexities and firm but supple tannins. Drink now onwards. (Michael Cooper, Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines, 2005) |
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| 692343 OYSTER BAY MERLOT 2004 $ 18.95 |
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Hawkes Bay, North Island (XD) 750 mL |
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| The next vintage of this extremely popular VINTAGES Food & Drink Discovery has arrived. This Merlot, is from one of New Zealand's most respected producers. Oyster Bay has combined the bright berry/cherry fruit for which Merlot is known with a fine tannin structure that makes it an ideal companion for a variety of meat and pasta dishes.
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| New at VINTAGES |
| 651489 DIEMERSDAL SAUVIGNON BLANC 2004 $ 11.95 |
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WO Durbanville (XD) 750 mL |
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Tasting note: Floral and sweet bouquet of guava, peach and nettle, soft and juicy, medium bodied and dry, well pitched acidity. (Tony Mossop, John Platter South African Wines 2005) |
| 922211 'TUMARA TITAN' 2002 $ 16.95 |
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WO Bottelary Stellenbosch (XD) 750 mL
(Bellevue Estate Winery) |
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A classic blend of Bordeaux's 'titans', Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Merlot.
Tasting note: Sleek, elegantly crafted and stylish, immaculate winemaking, not a tannin out of place. Dark chocolate and black cherry invitation; oak woven into the very fabric of the wine, good dry finish. Score - **** (out of 5). (Irina von Holdt, John Platter South African Wines 2005) |
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| New at Vintages |
| 641506 HUBER 'HUGO' GRÜNER VELTLINER 2003 $ 15.95 |
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Reichersdorf/Traisental (XD) 750 mL
(Weingut Markus Huber) |
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| Even with its difficult-to-pronounce name, Grüner Veltliner (Groon-er-VELT-lynn-er) has become the white wine of choice amongst the smart set in Ontario. Grüner is known for producing quite aromatic and fruity wine with a vibrant crisp acidity and spicy undertone. Huber's 'Hugo' was launched with this 2003 vintage as an opportunity for consumers to experience the wonders of Grüner at a value price. Enjoy with spiced seafood or poultry dishes.
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| Midi |
| 653543 DEVOIS DES AGNEAUX D'AUMELAS BLANC 2003 $ 17.95 |
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AC Coteaux du Languedoc (XD) 750 mL
(Elisabeth et Brigitte Jeanjean) |
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| Last seen at our Tour de France event in February 2005, this wine is a blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Picpoul, Marsanne and Roussanne. In the hot 2003 vintage, the grapes ripened to their optimum, creating wines that are rich, ripe and robust. Enjoy with intensely flavoured seafood.
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| Southwest |
| Exceptional Value |
| 931212 DOMAINE DES CASSAGNOLES 2004 $ 8.95 |
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Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne (XD) 750 mL
(J. & G. Baumann, Vign.-Récolt.) |
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| Year after year, this value priced Colombard-based wine proves that the Gascogne region should be known for more than Armagnac and foie gras (although, if you have to be known for something, those aren't too bad). What does it taste like? Think New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc at half the price.
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| Burgundy |
| Wine of the Month |
| 657387 BLASON DE BOURGOGNE PINOT NOIR 2003 $ 16.95 |
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AC Bourgogne (XD) 750 mL |
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This is one of a series of first-rate Burgundies sold under the Blason de Bourgogne label. It is a joint venture by some of France's best co-operatives: Cave de Buxy, Cave de Bailly, Cave La Chablisienne and Cave de Prissé. Their aim is to produce premium wines, from some of their best vineyards, at value prices.
Tasting note: An excellent, accessible Pinot Noir from the hot 2003 vintage. Deeply coloured with aromas that recall raspberry, cherry and beetroot notes. Light to medium-bodied, this crowd-pleasing wine would complement grilled fish, chicken or vegetarian meals. (VINTAGES panel, Jan. 2005) |
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| 940932 VINCENT SAUVESTRE SAVIGNY-LÈS-BEAUNE 2002 $ 31.95 |
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AC (XD) 750 mL |
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| Romance and wine have always gone together, but romance and vines are a unique variation. Vincent Sauvestre and his wife, Aleth, consider their Savigny-lès-Beaune vineyard to be a very special place. Many years ago, Vincent went to Aleth's father's residence to discuss the purchase of vines to use in planting this very vineyard. As the story goes, Aleth answered the door and . you can guess the rest. Their 2002 Savigny is a fresh, delicious approachable wine that does great justice to this story.
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| Midi |
| 586776 'RED BICYCLETTE' SYRAH 2003 $ 17.95 |
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Vin de Pays d'Oc (D) 750 mL
(Le Caves de Sieur d'Arques) |
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| The cartoon man riding a bicycle with baguettes in his basket and a dog trailing behind is only half the story of 'Red Bicyclette' - the other half is in the bottle. This supple, easy-drinking Syrah is an excellent choice for your summer barbecue.
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| Provence |
| 982207 CHÂTEAU CALISSANNE 'CLOS VICTOIRE' 2001 $ 34.95 |
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AC Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence (XD) 750 mL |
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One of the best run estates in southern France, the quality of Chateau Calissanne's wines continues to soar. Shrewd buyers should be aware that these wines are significantly under-priced for the level of quality in the bottle. (Robert Parker Jr, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 1995). This blend of 60% Syrah and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon shows that the French were experimenting with this partnership well before the Australians.
Food match: grilled lamb, richer Mediterranean fare. |
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| Rhône |
| VINTAGES Cellar Selection |
| 652339 'LE DIT DE LA CLAPASSIÈRE' 2000 $ 16.95 |
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Séguret, AC Côtes du Rhône-Villages (D) 750 mL
(Cave des Vignerons de Gigondas) |
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Tasting note: Deep ruby/opaque colour with a
cornucopia of aromas, including: lilac, cedar,
plum, leather and coffee. A dry, flavourful wine
that has layers of fruit surrounded by nice ripe
tannins. This full-bodied, long finishing wine
will reward 3-5 years of cellaring; perhaps more. (David Churchill, VINTAGES, May 2005)
Food match: rare steaks or lamb chops. |
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| Mosel-Saar-Ruwer |
| Exceptional Value |
| 599274 LOOSEN BROS. 'DR. L' RIESLING 2004 $ 13.95 |
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QbA (MD) 750 mL |
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| 'Dr. L' is the exceptional entry-level Mosel Riesling made by Ernie Loosen, one of the shining lights of the region. If you are a Riesling newbie, this is an excellent place to begin your journey. This wine shows all the bright fruitiness and refreshing acid one should expect with the grape. It is all wrapped up in a very easy-drinking style, to enjoy as a sipper or with a seafood pasta dish.
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| 653741 KATOGI & STROFILIA 'STROFILIA' WHITE 2004 $ 15.95 |
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Regional Wine Of Attica (D) 750 mL
(Katogi S.A.) |
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| Strofilia was among the group of young rebel producers whose innovations shook up and helped modernize the Greek wine industry in the 1980s. In 2001, the company joined forces with Katogi to further the quality revolution. The winery in Anavyssos concentrates solely on white wines. In this case, the indigenous Roditis and Savatiano grapes were used. Roditis brings bright acidity to the blend, while Savatiano is used for its lovely, soft fruitiness. Enjoy with grilled octopus or Mediterranean sea bass. |
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| 653766 KIR-YIANNI 'SAMAROPETRA' 2003 $ 15.95 |
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Vin de Pays de Florina (D) 750 mL |
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| Conceived by Yiannis Boutaris at his winery in northern Greece, this wine combines the best of the local Greek grapes, Roditis, with two of the finest international varieties, Sauvignon Blanc and Gewurztraminer. The crisp Roditis and Sauvignon Blanc match well with the richly aromatic Gewurz creating a wine ideal for flavourful Greek dishes, such as rabbit or moussaka. |
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| 642454 DOMAINE DERESKOS CHARDONNAY 2004 $ 13.95 |
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Regional Wine of Messinia (D) 750 mL |
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| This Chardonnay comes from Domaine Dereskos' warm Peloponnese-based vineyard. Matured in French oak, the wine's ripe fruit ably supports the toasty oak tones. Enjoy with lobster and other richer fish or seafood.
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| 653774 GAIA
ESTATE NOTIOS WHITE 2004 $ 14.95 |
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Moschofilero/Roditis, Regional Wine Of Peloponnisos (D) 750 mL |
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| The Moschofilero in this blend delivers intense aromatics, while the Roditis adds a nice layer of acid. Unlike the rosé 'Meliasto', (this page), that also contains pink-skinned Moschofilero, this wine did not receive skin contact, and thus it is a completely white in colour. Enjoy with garlicky chicken gyros or medium-flavoured seafoods.
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653758 M. COSMETATOS MINIES 'GENTILIM'
ROBOLA OF CEPHALONIA 2003 $ 19.95 |
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AOHQ (XD) 750 mL |
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| The Ionian Island of Cephalonia (or Kefalonia) is located off the western Greek coast. This wine is made with the naturally low-yielding Robola grape, a variety known for its good acidity and bright citrus flavours. Enjoy it as an aperitif or with summertime snacks such as olives or grilled calamari.
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| 627760 SANTO WINES ASSYRTICO 2004 $ 14.95 |
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AOHQ Santorini (XD) 750 mL |
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| Assyrtico is arguably Greece's finest white wine grape. Grown mostly on the beautiful Greek island of Santorini, the vine seems to be impervious to drought, which is critical in this hot, dry climate. Despite the heat, the wine manages to retain a very impressive level of acidity. The resulting wines are racy yet also quite flavourful with apple, pear and passion fruit dominating. Enjoy with spiced seafood dishes.
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| 641464 DOMAINE SPIROPOULOS 'MELIASTO' ROSÉ 2004 $ 12.95 |
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Regional Wine Of Peloponnese (XD) 750 mL
(Arkas S.A.) |
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| Moschofilero, the grape used here, is a variety known as a blanc de gris, meaning that the skin colour can range from light pink to deep purple. Producers make a rosé, such as this, by allowing the juice extended contact with the grape skins. Moschofilero's aromas are similar to the intense Muscat variety. Enjoy this chilled with lightly spiced seafood or chicken dishes. This organic wine contains 21 mg/l of free sulphur.
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| 653790 TSANTALIS NAOUSA RESERVE 'EPILEGMENOS' 1999 $ 12.95 |
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AOHQ Naousa (XD) 750 mL |
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| Located in northern Greece, the Naousa region has developed a reputation for producing superior red wines from the local Xinomavro grape. Xinomavro has been compared to the Nebbiolo of Piedmont, and yet it still has a totally unique flavour and aroma profile. The producer suggests serving this rich, balanced wine with beef stew, seared tuna or pasta with pepperoni and olive oil. |
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| 921577 CHÂTEAU PORTO CARRAS 2000 $ 24.95 |
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AOHQ Côtes de Meliton (XD) 750 mL |
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This wine is a blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon supported by Cabernet Franc, Merlot and the local Limnio.
Tasting note: A complex, beautifullystructured wine that presents a unique Greek take on the Bordeaux blend. Aromas suggest dried berry, leather, cassis, tobacco and cedar tones. It is medium-bodied with a long, lingering finish. Enjoy with roast leg of lamb. (VINTAGES panel, Sept. 2004) |
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| 692475 HAGGIPAVLU 'NEMEA' AGHIORGITIKO 2001 $ 14.95 |
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AOHQ Nemea (XD) 750 mL
(Olympus Hellas) |
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| Wines made with the Aghiorgitiko (Greek for 'St. George') grape are often described as a spicy cross between Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Deeply coloured and very flavourful, especially when given oak treatment, as was this example, these wines are best enjoyed with full-flavoured meat dishes.
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| VINTAGES Cellar Selection |
| 653816 KIR-YIANNI 'YIANAKOHORI' 2001 $ 23.95 |
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Vin de Pays D'imathia (XD) 750 mL |
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Winemaker Yiannis Boutaris has shown a deft hand at combining local grapes with international varieties, in this case Xinomavro and Merlot. See also his white Samaropetra (653766).
Tasting note: A complex, flavourful wine that would reward 3 to 4 years in a cellar. Aromas suggest cranberry, plum and paraffin. Dry with a very firm structure. Underneath, lovely fruit tones are waiting to come to the fore. Medium-bodied with a fairly lengthy finish. (VINTAGES panel, Aug. 2004) |
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| 653808 MONEMVASSIA WINERY KASTROPOLITIA RED $ 12.95 |
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Regional Wine Of Monemvasia (D) 750 mL |
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| This non-vintage Kastropolitia is made with the classic Aghiorgítiko variety and lesser known Mavroudi grape. Aghiorgítiko makes a wine that has New World nuances such as a warm, ripe fruitiness, while Mavroudi has a crisp, individual quality not found anywhere else. Enjoy with grilled lamb or gourmet sausages.
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| Alto Adige/Trentino |
| 987503 'BOLLINI' CHARDONNAY 'BARRICATO 40' 2003 $ 13.95 |
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DOC Trentino (XD) 750 mL
(Empson & Co.) |
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| A popular wine with VINTAGES customers, Empson's 'Bollini' Chardonnay 'Barricato 40' has always done an excellent job integrating the fruit, acid and oak tones to create a ripe, fruit-driven wine with a nice layer of toastiness. Enjoy it with barbecued chicken or vegetarian lasagna.
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| 951319 'BOLLINI' PINOT GRIGIO 2004 $ 15.95 |
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DOC Trentino (XD) 750 mL
(Empson & Co.) |
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| A lively, crisp wine with plenty of apple, pear and spice character. An excellent choice for barbecued shrimp or pan-fried freshwater fish.
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| Campania |
| 650622 FEUDI DI SAN GREGORIO FALANGHINA 2003 $ 18.95 |
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DOC Sannio (XD) 750 mL |
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| Falanghina is a very old Italian grape variety. Some say the legendary wine of ancient Rome known as Falernian was made with this grape. Today, it makes crisp and delicately aromatic wines perfect for simple evening sipping or with seafood. According to Daniele Cernilli & Marco Sabellico, The New Italy (2000), Feudi San Gregorio is "One of the best Italian producers."
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| Abruzzi |
| 328997 ILLUMINATI 'RIPAROSSO' MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO 2003 $ 12.95 |
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DOC (D) 750 mL |
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| An 'illuminating', crowd-pleasing wine with a fairly complex nose and flavour profile. Enjoy this spicy/fruity wine with flavourful risotto dishes, or, around the barbecue, with backribs and your best homemade sauce.
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| Alto Adige/Trentino |
| 717306 'BOLLINI' MERLOT 2003 $ 13.95 |
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DOC Trentino (XD) 750 mL
(Empson & Co.) |
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| A superb summertime red, because this light to medium-bodied Merlot matches well with much of the gentler cuisine we enjoy in these hot weather months, such as pasta or chicken salads or vegetarian meals.
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| Puglia |
| Exceptional Value |
| 651927 PORTILE PRIMITIVO DEL TARANTINO 2003 $ 14.95 |
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IGT (D) 750 mL
(Masseria Pepe) |
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| A great choice for the summer barbecue. This 100% Primitivo is an IGT because the alcohol is below the required 14% for DOC status. The winemakers chose to make a classically styled Primitivo, one that is lighter and more approachable. You can expect rich berry fruit, a medium body and a long lingering finish. Enjoy with gourmet beef or portobello mushroom burgers.
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| 972976 PLANTAZE 'VRANAC PRO CORDE' 2003 $ 12.95 |
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Serbia & Montenegro (D) 750 mL |
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| Vranac, an indigenous grape of Montenegro (one of the Balkan states), can produce deeply coloured, quite flavourful wines that respond very favourably to oak ageing. The wines are capable of developing a lovely velvety texture and intense flavours with bottle ageing. It is also an exceptional food wine; enjoy it with rich meat or pasta dishes. It would also be a unique addition to the barbecue line-up.
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| 704858 QUINTA DE SANTA MARIA VINHO VERDE 2004 $ 12.95 |
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DOC, 'Colheita Seleccionada' (XD) 750 mL |
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| Vinho Verde, which means 'green wine', refers to the practice of selling and consuming the wines when they are young. The wine is perhaps one of the perfect summertime tipples because it is crisp, fruity and light spritzy. Great as either a palate awakener or with a mess o' mussels.
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| 909382 VIÑA BAJOZ 'OVACION' 2004 $ 12.95 |
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DO Rueda (D) 750 mL |
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| Bajoz' 'Ovacion' is a fresh, fruity, crowd-pleasing wine made with the indigenous Verdejo and Viura grapes. Enjoy with pan-fried freshwater fish, oysters or even summer salads.
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| 651919 VIÑA BAJOZ 'JOVEN' 2003 $ 12.95 |
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DO Toro (D) 750 mL |
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Tasting note: The 2003 Joven may be Spain’s
answer to a French Beaujolais. Made from 100%
Tinto de Toro [Tempranillo], 5% was aged in
barrel, and the balance in tank. This deep rubycolored,
fruity, soft, medium-bodied red exhibits
loads of strawberry and cherry fruit, crisp acidity,
and a lively personality … ( (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, April 2004) |
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Wine by Country - August 6 Release
| California |
| New at VINTAGES |
| 658112 MCMANIS FAMILY VIOGNIER 2003 $ 19.95 |
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California (D) 750 mL |
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In its very first competition, the 2003 Viognier won a gold medal at the 2004 California State Fair with a score of 95 points!
Tasting note: .an excellent offering for this price range. Classic aromas of honeysuckle and apricots jump from the glass of this medium-bodied white. With good acidity as well as freshness and no evidence of wood, it should be enjoyed over the next year. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2005) |
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| 544841 STONEHEDGE CHARDONNAY 2001 $ 12.95 |
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Barrel Fermented, California (D) 750 mL |
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| Another solid value from Stonehedge, this wine won a gold medal at the Orange County Fair 2003. It's 100% fermented in American Oak barrels which imparts some buttery and toasty depth to the lively, ripe fruit flavours. |
| California |
| 567453 BERINGER ZINFANDEL 2003 $ 15.95 |
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Premiere Vineyard Selection, California (D) 750 mL |
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| A thoroughly modern, fruit-forward, ready-to-drink Zin from Napa's oldest continuously operating winery. An excellent value, it's a perfect fit for grilled hamburgers, barbecued ribs, or chicken with a zingy tomato sauce. |
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| 658104 MCMANIS FAMILY SYRAH 2003 $ 19.95 |
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California (XD) 750 mL |
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| The McManis Family vineyards is a relatively new label started by grape growers Ron and Jamie McManis. Located at the confluence of the Stanislaus and San Joaquin rivers, they are responsible for establishing 'River Junction' as one of the newest American Viticultural Areas. For those unfamiliar, this is a great introduction to Californian Syrah. |
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| 948935 RUTHERFORD HILL MERLOT 2001 $ 15.95 |
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