Wine by Country
 Wine by Country

Wine by country

Canada

white wine
Ontario
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula FLAT ROCK CELLARS UNPLUGGED CHARDONNAY  2007
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula  

'Unplugged' is Flat Rock's unoaked Chardonnay. The 2007 vintage was recently awarded Double Gold and ranked the best wine in its category at the International Eastern Wine Competition 2009. Aged in stainless steel, this is a sumptuous, medium full-bodied Chardonnay with ripe apple and juicy citrus fruit flavours balanced by refreshing acidity, leading to a lengthy crisp finish. Serve it with an asparagus-and-shrimp risotto, or broiled scallops.

68015    (D)            750 mL    $15.95   drink  
  
VQA Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula INNISKILLIN WINEMAKER'S SERIES MONTAGUE VINEYARD CHARDONNAY  2007
VQA Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula  

After achieving much success crafting wine in the Okanagan Valley, Bruce Nicholson returned to Niagara to take the reins as Inniskillin's Senior Winemaker in 2007. The storied winery is thriving under his leadership recently capturing the top award at Vinitaly (the annual international wine competition in Venice), and the award for best producer at the 16th Annual Sélections Mondiales in Quebec City. The Montague Vineyard is a well-known source for exceptional Chardonnay. Aged in French oak for 8 months, the 2007 is rich and creamy, with ripe tropical fruit, toasty cedar and vanilla character, and a long finish. Delicious now, but should evolve over the next 3-5 years.


586347    (D)            750 mL    $18.95   drinkhold  
  
VQA Niagara Peninsula REIF ESTATE VIDAL ICEWINE  2006
VQA Niagara Peninsula  

TASTING NOTE: Racy and electric, like a laser beam of dried apricot and citrus, with hints of clove and allspice. The vivid structure drives the flavors to a long aftertaste, where a mineral element emerges. Drink now through 2018.
Score - 92. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Web Only 2009) 

544791    (S)            200 mL    $24.95   drinkhold  
  
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula THIRTY BENCH RIESLING  2008
VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula  

Thirty Bench is a Riesling specialist. The 2007 vintage of this wine won a Gold Medal for Best Dry Riesling at the 2009 Ontario Wine Awards.

TASTING NOTE: This is the entry level Riesling from the estate, a blend from the vineyards, in a house style. An attractive nose of lime-citrus and subtle mineral notes. It has zippy acidity on the palate to go with refreshing citrus fruits in a dry style. Score - 3 1/2 Stars (out of 5). (Rick VanSickle, www.stcatharinesstandard.ca, June 18, 2009) 

24133    (D)            750 mL    $18.70   drinkhold  

  
British Columbia
VQA Okanagan Valley BURROWING OWL CHARDONNAY  2007
VQA Okanagan Valley  

TASTING NOTE: This full-bodied Chardonnay begins with complex aromas of tangerine and subtle toasty oak. The palate follows through with citrus flavours enriched with the buttery notes that come from barrel fermentation, followed by malolactic fermentation. There is a layered complexity to the flavour profile. The acidity is soft, perhaps a little too soft. With 13.5% alcohol, this is not a shy wine. It has a warming finish with a hint of bitterness. This is a Chardonnay for those who appreciate a wine that has had the full treatment in the cellar.
Score - 88. (John Schreiner, johnschreiner.blogspot.com, Jan. 29, 2009) 

726604    (XD)            750 mL    $33.95   drinkhold  
  
VQA Okanagan Valley BURROWING OWL PINOT GRIS  2007
VQA Okanagan Valley  

TASTING NOTE: Pinot Gris is becoming a staple in the vineyards of the Okanagan, resulting in a range of styles from light and crisp to ripe, round and robust. This fine example from Burrowing Owl comes right up the middle. It features aromas of lime, pear, mineral and even a slight hint of butterscotch. On the palate, it is quite dry with good lime/pear replays and a hint of toasty oak. This version has good weight in the mouth and a rather long crisp/fruit/oak finish. Fire up the late-season barbecue and grill some prawns. (VINTAGES panel, Aug. 2009) 

585745    (D)            750 mL    $27.95   drinkhold  
  

red wine
Ontario
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula VQA Wine of the Month
New at VINTAGES
FEATHERSTONE ESTATE BOTTLED MERLOT  2007
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula  

TASTING NOTE: This very well-made merlot shows good depth of flavour and fine fruit-acid balance. The concentrated fruit is ripe, well defined and complex, and the tannins are soft and easily manageable. It's drinking well now and is good for short-term cellaring. Enjoy it with roasted red meats.
Score - 4 Stars (out of 5). (Rod Phillips, www.rodphillipsonwine.com, July 30, 2009) 

131540    (D)            750 mL    $19.95   drinkhold  
  
VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula HENRY OF PELHAM CABERNET FRANC ICEWINE  2007
VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula  

TASTING NOTE: Intense, vibrant fruit aromas and flavors, exhibiting strawberry and raspberry above all others. Age for 1 to 4 years from vintage. Made from grapes harvested from Henry of Pelham's own Short Hills vineyards.
Score - 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5). (Malcolm Jolley, www.gremolata.com, Undated) 

672402    (S)            200 mL    $39.95   drinkhold  
  
VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula HENRY OF PELHAM GAMAY  2007
VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula  

TASTING NOTE: No sooner have I reviewed the 2006 version of the Henry of Pelham Gamay that the 2007 hits the shelves. Pelham continues to impress with their Gamay, a much under-rated grape. This is not the Beaujolais-style you think about when you hear Gamay Noir, this one has a backbone that is straight up strawberry, black cherry with a bit of bite. (Michael Pinkus, www.ontariowinereview.com, Aug. 21, 2008) 

291112    (D)            750 mL    $14.95   drink  
  
British Columbia
VQA Okanagan Valley New at VINTAGES
INNISKILLIN DISCOVERY SERIES MALBEC  2007
VQA Okanagan Valley  

Inniskillin's Discovery Series is designed to give winemaker Sandor Mayer the chance to experiment with unusual grape varieties in the Okanagan context. He's able to explore a grape variety's potential using small lots before deciding whether to give it more real estate in the vineyards. If this experiment is anything to go by, Malbec does indeed have a future in BC. This dry, fruity Malbec is nicely supported by ripe tannins and is full of lovely cherry, plum, vanilla and mocha aromas and flavours.

143792    (D)            750 mL    $23.95   drinkhold  
  
VQA Okanagan Valley SUMAC RIDGE BLACK SAGE VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2006
VQA Okanagan Valley  

Winner of a Silver Medal at the All-Canadian Wine Championships in 2009.

TASTING NOTE: Dense aromas of black cherries and currents, bittersweet chocolate and roasted coffee beans with undertones of green bell pepper - savoury and earthy. Balanced on the palate with smooth tannins - ripe cherry plummy fruits, mocha and char flavours with spiced cocoa lingering on the finish. (Daenna Van Mulligen, www.winediva.ca, May 25, 2009) 

143784    (D)            750 mL    $23.95   drinkhold  

  
rosé wine
Ontario
VQA Niagara Escarpment MALIVOIRE LADYBUG ROSÉ  2008
VQA Niagara Escarpment  

Back by popular demand and just in time for your Thanksgiving feast is the 2008 Ladybug Rosé. Beyond the turkey dinner, it is also a fine match for grilled salmon.

TASTING NOTE: Wine Style: Rosé Medium-bodied. Appearance: Pink. Nose: Big raspberry and cherry. Taste: Big cherry. Score - 4 Stars (out of 5). (Tony Aspler, www.tonyaspler.com, March 19, 2009) 

559088    (D)            750 mL    $15.95   drink  

  
 
U.S.A

white wine
California
Sonoma County CHATEAU ST. JEAN CHARDONNAY  2007
Sonoma County  

TASTING NOTE: A surprisingly fresh and zingy wine from Chateau St. Jean in California's Sonoma County. This Chardonnay pours a pale straw yellow color and offers sweet aromas of fruit and some cedar. On the tongue, you can detect cantaloupe, lemon balm, and vanilla notes. This is a great patio or terrace wine along side an order of frites with mayonnaise.
Score - 4 Stars (out of 5). (Malcolm Jolley, www.gremolata.com, Undated) 

421644    (D)            750 mL    $19.95   drink
  
Central Coast New at VINTAGES
CLAYHOUSE ADOBE WHITE  2008
Central Coast  

This proprietary white earned Gold Medals at the 2009 California Mid-State Fair and the 2009 Riverside International Wine Competition. The 2008 is comprised of 22% Viognier, 18% Sauvignon Blanc, 17% Grenache Blanc, 16% Roussanne, 6% Chardonnay, 5% Chenin Blanc, and 16% Princess. Princess is a cross between Muscat and Thompson seedless grapes. Originally designed as a table grape, it is now being experimented with as a winemaking variety. Clayhouse may be on to something with this floral-scented, full-bodied wine packed with red apple, pear and peach fruit flavours.

137059    (MD)            750 mL    $16.95   drink
  
California CLOS DU BOIS PINOT GRIGIO  2008
California  

Sourced from cool vineyard sites throughout California, this is a delightful and refreshing wine with plenty of peach, citrus and mineral notes balanced by vibrant acidity. It's a lovely sipper for an autumn afternoon, or serve it alongside light appetizers.

66910    (D)            750 mL    $17.95   drink
  
Napa Valley GRGICH HILLS ESTATE CHARDONNAY  2006
Napa Valley  

TASTING NOTE: Classically Grgich in its restrained first impressions, this fairly full and yet firm bottling reluctantly offers up notes of green apples, toasty oak and hints of lime in its aromas, but the wine surprises on the palate with much more evident depth to its firm, tight but promising flavors. This is a wine that has the right pieces in the right places for cellaring. Score - 90. (Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wines, Oct. 2008) 

346304    (D)            750 mL    $59.95   drinkhold
  
Sonoma County KENWOOD SAUVIGNON BLANC  2008
Sonoma County  

"When I first spoke with [Kenwood's senior winemaker] Pat [Henderson], he was evaluating the components of his final 2008 blend for Kenwood Vineyards' flagship Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc. (This has been Kenwood's most popular wine, he tells me, for 28 years. Not bad for a widely ignored white varietal that otherwise lags far behind Chardonnay in the marketplace!) Although the wine is 100% Sauvignon Blanc, it shows tremendous complexity, owing to its many and diverse vineyard sources throughout Sonoma County." (Rosina T. Wilson, wine.appellationamerica.com, March 26, 2009)

971754    (XD)            750 mL    $17.95   drink
  
Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County MER SOLEIL SILVER UNOAKED CHARDONNAY  2007
Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County  

TASTING NOTE: Combines ripe, intense peach, nectarine and tangerine fruit, with touches of floral and spice. Gains body and depth, turning creamy in texture. Drink now through 2012. Score - 91. (James Laube, www.winespectator.com, July 31, 2009) 

66159    (XD)            750 mL    $29.95   drinkhold
  

red wine
California
Clear Lake, Lake County BERINGER CLEAR LAKE ZINFANDEL  2006
Clear Lake, Lake County  

"Clear Lake is a relatively new winegrowing area within the Lake County AVA American Viticultural Area. Our Clear Mountain property was one of [vineyard manager Bob Steinhauer's] best discoveries, although his stories of planting it are scary because it's right in the middle of rattlesnake country. Bob says he thinks the rattlesnakes add zing to our zin." (Laura Hooks, winemaker, Beringer) Try this rattlingly good Zin with barbecued back ribs or grilled steaks.

953596    (D)            750 mL    $19.95   drinkhold
  
California New at VINTAGES
CANDOR LOT 1 MERLOT  
California  

The Candor winery concept was born from a desire to create straightforward wines that express true varietal character. This wine's blend of at least two vintages shows both fresh youthful fruit and a touch of developing maturity. Each version is identified by lot numbers - in this case, Lot 1 - rather than vintages.

TASTING NOTE: Displays classic plummy, dark stone fruit, spice and a hint of smoke, with just enough grip on the finish to round out the package.
Score - Best Red Wine. (Central Coast Wine Competition, California Mid-Sta, 2009) 

135392    (D)            750 mL    $18.95   drink

  
California, Vintner GLASS MOUNTAIN CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2006
California, Vintner's Selection  

Just in time for your first fall barbecue is this fruity, ripe and round Cabernet from California. A perfect partner for barbecued back ribs, steaks, gourmet sausages or, heck, even when you're in the mood for 'franks and beans'.

727511    (D)            750 mL    $13.95   drinkhold
  
California IRONSTONE VINEYARDS MERLOT  2007
California  

A terrific value, this bright and fruity Merlot is extremely well-balanced and very food-friendly. It's dry, medium-bodied, soft textured with clean plum and cherry flavours plus notes of licorice and vanilla. Enjoy with roasted pork, veal chops, or a medium-rare steak.

704353    (XD)            750 mL    $16.95   drink
  
California New at VINTAGES
LEESE-FITCH CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2007
California  
(The Other Guys)

An exceedingly good value, this ripe and juicy Cab earned a Gold Medal, with a score of 94 points, from the judges at the 2009 California State Fair Wine Competition. It's packed with black cherry, blueberry, vanilla, Christmas cake, cedar and hints of cocoa. This full-bodied Cab has velvety soft tannins, which make it perfect to enjoy tonight with everything from roasted game with rosemary potatoes, to a thick and juicy Angus burger topped with white cheddar.

135285    (D)            750 mL    $17.95   drinkhold
  
Sonoma County Arrive in Style
RODNEY STRONG CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2006
Sonoma County  

This wine won a Gold Medal and was Best in Class at the 2009 Pacific Rim International Wine Competition.

TASTING NOTE: Perfect for fall feasts and autumn's comfort foods, this Cab is deep ruby in colour with aromas suggesting blueberry preserves, plum, black cherry, graphite and a hint of underbrush. It's dry with a creamy texture and plump black fruit flavours as well as notes of vanilla, espresso and baking spices on the long finish. Quite well-balanced and structured with vibrant medium acidity and ripe, moderate tannins. Serve over the next 3 years with pot roast, lamb chops, beef stew or meat loaf. (VINTAGES panel, Aug. 2009) 

226944    (D)            750 mL    $22.95   drinkhold

  
Napa Valley ST. CLEMENT CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2005
Napa Valley  

TASTING NOTE: The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa exhibits a deep ruby/purple color in addition to a bouquet of licorice, toasty wood, black currants, spice box, and earth. This soft 2005 should drink nicely for 10-12 years. Score - 89. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2007) 

43182    (D)            750 mL    $49.95   drinkhold
  
North Coast TOASTED HEAD CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2007
North Coast  

'Toasted Head' refers to the process of toasting the tops and bottoms (plus the staves) of the oak barrels, which imparts a mellow oak character to this wine. Typically aged for 18-20 months in a mix of French and American oak, this delicious Cab features toasty vanilla, rich black fruit flavours and a lingering finish. Ideal for leisurely enjoyment.

686824    (D)            750 mL    $19.95   drinkhold
  
Argentina

white wine
Uco Valley, Mendoza New at VINTAGES
FINCA EL ORIGEN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2007
Uco Valley, Mendoza  
(Santa Carolina in Argentina/Bodegas y Viñedos La Esperanza)

Santa Carolina, the popular Chilean producer, moves into the Argentine market with these wines.

TASTING NOTE: Intense colour. Pronounced Cabernet nose. Palate of juicy black fruit with crisp acidity and good length. Score - Silver Medal. (International Wine Challenge, 2009) 

128991    (XD)            750 mL    $14.95   drinkhold

  
Mendoza TRAPICHE BROQUEL BONARDA  2007
Mendoza  

TASTING NOTE: A juicy-ripe red with rich black fruit, licorice, blueberry, coconut, dark spices and vanilla smoke. The vines for this wine were 20 years old, and the wine was aged in oak barrels for 12 months. Good firm tannins. Decant for 1-2 hours. Pair with: Tomato-sauce dishes and pasta, steak, ribs, meat casserole. Score - 90. (Natalie MacLean, www.nataliemaclean.com, May 7, 2009) 

55558    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   drinkhold
  
Chile

white wine
Casablanca Valley, Gran Reserva SANTA RITA MEDALLA REAL CHARDONNAY  2007
Casablanca Valley, Gran Reserva  

TASTING NOTE: Creamy apple, pear and tropical fruit flavours are dished up by Medalla Real Chardonnay 2007. Deep and luscious, it could be a completely different grape to the Chardonnay as represented by classy French white Burgundy, with its dry, nutty, mineral character. (Peter Homer, Bognor Regis Observer (U.K.), March 6, 2009) 

303628    (XD)            750 mL    $17.95   drinkhold
  

red wine
Aconcagua Valley Wine of the Month
ARBOLEDA CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2007
Aconcagua Valley  
(Viña Seña)

Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2009 Wines of Chile Awards.

TASTING NOTE: Cabernet Sauvignon has been Chile's strongest suit for years, typically melding New World ripe fruit with Old World structure and herbaceousness ... The 2007 Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon Aconcagua Valley is young and tannic, yet some time in bottle should soften the edges, allowing the succulent cassis and spice and leather notes to shine. (Linda Murphy, www.winereviewonline.com, Feb. 3, 2009) 

606764    (XD)            750 mL    $17.95   drinkhold

  
Limari Valley New at VINTAGES
CASA TAMAYA RESERVE SYRAH  2008
Limari Valley  

TASTING NOTE: Naming this wine Syrah (instead of Shiraz) was a good choice for this producer as it shares more in common with southern France than South Australia. Filled with aromas of blackberry, pepper, game and mocha, this well-typed Syrah is dry and fruity, with fine acidity and a good core of tannin to supply balance. Enjoy this wine now with grilled lamb chops, or cellar it 2-3 years. (VINTAGES panel, April 2009) 

135418    (D)            750 mL    $13.95   drinkhold
  
Rapel Valley SANTA CAROLINA BARRICA SELECTION CARMENÈRE  2007
Rapel Valley  

A fantastic value and a VINTAGES' customer favourite, this full-bodied Carmenère is sourced from selected vineyard sites in the Rapel Valley and aged in French oak for 12 months. It's packed with blackberry and black cherry fruit as well as notes of tobacco and spice. Savour this hearty and crowd-pleasing wine with meat stews.

640888    (D)            750 mL    $14.95   drinkhold
  
Australia
white wine
Adelaide Hills/Eden Valley, South Australia GRANT BURGE SUMMERS CHARDONNAY  2007
Adelaide Hills/Eden Valley, South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: [Grant Burge's Summers Chardonnay 2007] represents the bright and shining face of modern chardonnay ... fermented in small oak barrels and matured on spent yeast cells - winemaking tricks that can backfire if the fruit or oak isn't right. But done properly with the right fruit and oak, as it is in this wine, you get superbly rich, beautifully structured wines of great complexity. The funky, taut Burge wine comes from the Eden Valley and Adelaide Hills, neighbouring regions on South Australia's Mount Lofty Ranges. (Chris Shanahan, www.chrisshanahan.com, Dec. 21, 2008) 

57315    (D)            750 mL    $19.95   drinkhold
  
Eden Valley, South Australia THORN-CLARKE TERRA BAROSSA SINGLE VINEYARD RIESLING  2008
Eden Valley, South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: Pale straw color. Floral peach and candied lemon aromas follow through on a crisp, tart entry to a dryish light-to-medium body with a chalky mineral accented fade. Very mouthwatering and a perfect choice for oysters. Highly Recommended. Score - 89. (www.tastings.com, Jan. 22, 2009) 

75986    (D)            750 mL    $14.95   drink
  
South Australia YALUMBA Y SERIES RIESLING  2008
South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: An intense bouquet with crushed citrus leaf/lemon zest aromas; the palate is refined and elegant in a light-bodied mode. Top value. Drink [until] 2013. Score - 91. (James Halliday, www.winecompanion.com.au, Nov. 2008) 

625129    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   drinkhold
  

red wine
Barossa Valley, South Australia BISHOP BY BEN GLAETZER SHIRAZ  2007
Barossa Valley, South Australia  
(Glaetzer Wines)

TASTING NOTE: The opaque purple-colored 2007 Bishop is 100% Shiraz sourced from 80- to 120-year-old vines and aged for 14 months in seasoned French and American oak. It offers up an alluring bouquet of lavender, spice box, and wild blueberry leading to a layered, opulent wine with tons of succulent blue fruit, soft tannins, and rich flavors. Give it 2-3 years to more fully blossom and drink it from 2010 to 2022. Score - 93. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2009) 

627869    (D)            750 mL    $29.95   drinkhold
  
McLaren Vale, South Australia SHINGLEBACK SHIRAZ  2006
McLaren Vale, South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: Bright and generous, this is nicely focused to show off its cherry and spice flavors, picking up a savory note as the finish lingers. Drink now through 2013. Score - 90. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Feb. 28, 2009) 

57844    (D)            750 mL    $23.95   drinkhold
  
Barossa, South Australia ST. HALLETT BLACKWELL SHIRAZ  2006
Barossa, South Australia  

Winner of a Gold Medal at the Royal Perth Wine Show in 2008.

TASTING NOTE: Delivers immediate intensity from the first sip, blackberry fruit enhanced by nuances of licorice; has tremendous vitality and thrust to the long palate and finish. Drink [until] 2026. Score - 96. (James Halliday, www.winecompanion.com.au, March 2008) 

535104    (D)            750 mL    $29.95   drinkhold

  
Barossa Valley, South Australia TAIT BASKET PRESSED SHIRAZ  2005
Barossa Valley, South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: Tait has been establishing a track record for hedonistically rendered wines at consumer friendly prices for several years. The 2005 Basket Pressed Shiraz comes from a 60-year-old vineyard with yields of 1 - 2 tons per acre. The wine was aged in 20% new French oak and the balance one- to two-year-old American oak. Opaque purple in color, it delivers an array of scents including pain grille, pepper, sausage, blueberry, licorice, and chocolate. Thick and rich, this opulent Shiraz has a velvety texture, complex flavors, and a very long, sweet finish. It will benefit from 3-4 years of cellaring and will provide pleasure through 2025. Score - 93. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007) 

138339    (D)            750 mL    $49.95   drinkhold
  
New Zealand
white wine
Marlborough, South Island SPY VALLEY CHARDONNAY  2007
Marlborough, South Island  

TASTING NOTE: A consistently attractive, top-value wine. The 2007 vintage, harvested at 23-24 brix, was fermented (mostly with indigenous yeasts) and lees-aged for 10 months in French oak barrels. A fresh, mouthfilling wine with strong grapefruit and stone-fruit flavours, it shows good weight and concentration, with a dry, lingering finish. It's a drink-now or cellaring proposition. Score - 4 Stars (out of 5). (Michael Cooper, Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines, 2009) 

57737    (D)            750 mL    $19.95   drinkhold
  
Marlborough, South Island TWIN ISLANDS SAUVIGNON BLANC  2008
Marlborough, South Island  

Try this one with grilled prawn with a moderately spicy sauce.

TASTING NOTE: [This] wine is finely balanced for easy drinking. The 2008 vintage is smooth, with ripe tropical-fruit flavours, fresh, vibrant and already enjoyable. Score - 3 Stars (out of 5). (Michael Cooper, Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines, 2009) 

903625    (XD)            750 mL    $14.95   drinkhold

  

red wine
Hawkes Bay, North Island New at VINTAGES
MISSION ESTATE WINERY CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2007
Hawkes Bay, North Island  

Established in 1851, Mission Estate is New Zealand's oldest winery. This Cab includes fruit sourced from the renowned Gimblett Gravels sub-region in Hawkes Bay.

TASTING NOTE: In favourable vintages, this red offers good value. The 2007 includes 10 per cent Cabernet Franc and 5 per cent Malbec. Deeply coloured, it has very good depth of berry and green-olive flavours, tinged with sweet oak, and silky tannins. Score - 3 1/2 Stars (out of 5). (Michael Cooper, Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines, 2009) 

132159    (D)            750 mL    $16.95   drinkhold

  
Hawkes Bay, North Island New at VINTAGES
SILENI THE PLATEAU PINOT NOIR  2008
Hawkes Bay, North Island  

Hawkes Bay is not known for Pinot Noir production, but the wines made from vineyards grown on the inland plateau at Maraekakaho are always of a very high and consistent quality. Though not reviewed at press time, this 2008 Pinot from Sileni is another fine ambassador for the plateau. Look for lots of cherry and other dark fruit aromas backed by smooth tannins and a substantial finish. Enjoy it with planked salmon.

132142    (D)            750 mL    $19.95   drinkhold
  
South Africa

red wine
WO Coastal Region GOATS DO ROAM GOAT-ROTI SYRAH/VIOGNIER  2007
WO Coastal Region  

The 2007 vintage also scored four stars (out of 5) in John Platter's South African Wines 2009.

TASTING NOTE: Offers a nice plush texture, with juicy blackberry and boysenberry fruit flavors laced with dark toast and fruitcake notes. Stays fresh on the finish. Syrah and Viognier. Drink now. Score - 89. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, June 30, 2009) 

943175    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   drinkhold

  
France

white wine
Bordeaux
AC Graves CHÂTEAU LE PAVILLON DE BOYREIN BLANC  2007
AC Graves  
(Vign. Pierre Bonnet, Prop.)

TASTING NOTE: White Bordeaux is under-appreciated for its food-matching qualities. Here's a racy 2007 Bordeaux blanc with lovely melon, apple and sweet herb aromas on the nose. Dry, crisp and fresh with good aroma replays. A great wine for bouillabaisse, boiled lobster with dip, goat cheese, and even simply prepared lamb dishes. (VINTAGES panel, May 2009) 

138834    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   drinkhold
  
Burgundy
AC PAUL & MALLORY TALMARD MÂCON-UCHIZY  2007
AC  

Though not indicated on the label, a portion of this wine is very likely made with the aromatic clone of Chardonnay called Chardonnay Musqué. The wine exhibits expressive aromas of mandarin orange, mango and peach. Light- to medium-bodied, fruit forward and expressive on the palate with balanced acidity, this wine would match well with scallops or your favourite shellfish.

733956    (D)            750 mL    $16.95   drink

  
Loire
AC New at VINTAGES
CHÂTEAU DE VALMER VOUVRAY  2008
AC  
(Jean Battelier)

TASTING NOTE: A very true-to-type Chenin Blanc with plenty of fruit balanced by zippy acidity. Pear, orange rind, table grapes and McIntosh apple fill the nose and palate. This is one off-dry Chenin that will reward 3-6+ years in a cellar. If you are anxious to try it tonight, match it to spicy dishes, such as vindaloo chicken or green curry shrimp. Or give it a go with soft cheeses, such as brie and Camembert. (VINTAGES panel, May 2009) 

140624    (MD)            750 mL    $16.95   drinkhold
  
AC DOMAINE BONNARD SANCERRE  2008
AC  

TASTING NOTE: This Gold Medal-winning wine combines the best of Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc with a hint of the New Zealand style: lime and mineral, plus cut grass and a hint of gooseberry. Dry and fresh with good aroma replays. A wine for grilled prawns, poached salmon, roasted herbed chicken or goat cheese-stuffed roasted red peppers. (VINTAGES panel, May 2009) 

140525    (XD)            750 mL    $22.95   drinkhold
  

red wine
Bordeaux
AC Montagne Saint-Émilion CHÂTEAU HAUT-PLAISANCE  2003
AC Montagne Saint-Émilion  
(Michel Coudroy, Prop.)

Winner of a Silver Medal at the 2005 Concours Général Agricole Paris.

TASTING NOTE: Hitting its prime drinking window, this 2003 Bordeaux features aromas of bakery fruit, plum, cedar, vanilla and mocha. Dry with mature fruit and virtually resolved tannins, this delicious, well-priced claret is a great choice for roast beef with root vegetables. (VINTAGES panel, May 2009) 

138784    (XD)            750 mL    $23.95   drink

  
AC Bordeaux Supérieur New at VINTAGES
CHÂTEAU LA CROIX DE QUEYNAC  2005
AC Bordeaux Supérieur  
(Vign. Gabard)

TASTING NOTE: (Translated from the French) Stéphane Gabard, who has run the property since 1999, has given it a new impetus. Among the most notable of Bordeaux Supérieur wines, his purple-coloured 2005 delivers a powerful nose, dominated by toasty and woody notes. The palate is full of red fruit flavours and has a good tannic structure which is already well balanced with juicy fruit. A bottle full of charm that will age well. Château La Croix de Queynac Tradition 2005, aged in oak barrels, gets one of its two stars for its expressiveness.
Score - 2 Stars (out of 3). (Guide Hachette, 2008) 

138636    (XD)            750 mL    $14.95   drinkhold
  
AC Médoc CHÂTEAU LA GORCE  2003
AC Médoc  
(Pascal Fabre & Fils)

TASTING NOTE: (Translated from the French) Originally a farm, transformed into a monastery in 1821, this beautiful mansion is surrounded by its vineyards, which produce a very expressive wine with toasty spices on the nose and palate. Its structure -- rich, full, powerful and smooth -- indicates this will be a delight in four or five years with a steak or grilled lamb chops.
Score - 1 Star (out of 3). Guide Hachette, 2007) 

87668    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   drink
  
AC Bordeaux New at VINTAGES
CHÂTEAU THÉBOT  2005
AC Bordeaux  
(Héritiers Brisson, Prop.)

TASTING NOTE: A terrific value-priced Bordeaux from the great 2005 vintage. Lots of plum, stewed blueberry, vanilla and cherry dominate this wine. Dry and fruity with good ripe tannins giving balance. Calls out for a grilled steak with onions and mushrooms, or perhaps even calf's liver. (VINTAGES panel, May 2009) 

138792    (XD)            750 mL    $16.95   drink
  
AC Haut-Médoc New at VINTAGES
CHÂTEAU TOUR ST. JOSEPH  2005
AC Haut-Médoc  
(Quancard, Vitic.)

This wine won a Bronze Medal at the prestigious 2007 Concours de Bordeaux Vins de Aquitaine.

TASTING NOTE: Attractive, youthful, black fruits, new oak. Balanced palate, lush fruit. Crisp acidity, firm tannins. Fresh and mouthwatering. Drink 2011-16. Score - 3 Stars (out of 5). (www.decanter.com, Undated) 

138701    (XD)            750 mL    $23.95   hold

  
Beaujolais
AC New at VINTAGES
DOMAINE BOURISSET MOULIN-À-VENT 2007
AC  

Winner of a Gold Medal at the Concours des Grands Vins de France 2008.

TASTING NOTE: A very generous Gamay with aromas of black cherry and plum. Dry and elegant, with a fine core of tannin that one expects to find in better cru Beaujolais such as this. The fruit comes on nicely on the finish. Enjoy it with stuffed veal or pork tenderloin. (VINTAGES panel, Feb. 2009) 

129791    (D)            750 mL    $18.95   drink

  
Southwest
  BRUMONT TORUS MADIRAN  2006
AC  

" ... [Alain Brumont] now makes at least five different Madirans, matching grape to terroir and technique. Blending it with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, he gives us Torus, a new-generation Madiran, which is supple, sensuous, and ready to drink." (Christina Burridge, Vancouver Magazine,
May 1, 2008)

TASTING NOTE: A hint of the barnyard vies with a hint of floral on the nose, with a solid core of earth, underbrush, black currant and black plum in both flavor and aroma. Full bodied and well structured; approachable, but better in a few years. (George Heritier, www.gangofpour.com, Feb. 2009) 

132407    (XD)            750 mL    $16.95   drinkhold

  
Germany

white wine
Mosel-Saar-Ruwer
QmP, Wehlener Sonnenuhr STUDERT-PRÜM RIESLING SPÄTLESE  2004
QmP, Wehlener Sonnenuhr  

TASTING NOTE: Peach and apple aromas and flavors are backed by crisp acidity in this Riesling. It starts out rich, then tightens up on the finish. All the elements are there. Best from 2008 through 2020. Score - 89. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006) 

140756    (M)            750 mL    $23.95   drinkhold
  
Rheingau
QmP SCHLOSS REINHARTSHAUSEN RIESLING SPÄTLESE  2007
QmP  

The Schloss Reinhartshausen estate, in the heart of the Rheingau, overlooks the Rhine river. Wine has been cultivated on this historic 77 ha estate since 1337. This house Spätlese (or late harvest) Riesling, made with fruit from the Erbach and Hattenheim vineyards, is rich and supple with lovely lemon/lime, ripe grapefruit and mineral characteristics. It's medium-sweet, balanced with refreshing acidity leading to a long tangy finish. Serve it with spicy seafood, Thai cuisine, or cellar for 5 to 10 years.

129536    (MS)            750 mL    $23.95   drinkhold
  
Italy

white wine
Sicily
IGT Sicilia DUCA DI CASTELMONTE GORGO TONDO GRILLO/CHARDONNAY  2008
IGT Sicilia  
(Carlo Pellegrino)

Grillo matched with Chardonnay is an inspired blend. Both are full-bodied, but Grillo brings a full-flavour intensity, plus a unique aroma profile of lime, apricot and yellow plum. This impactful wine is a good partner for lobster or crab legs.

709634    (XD)            750 mL    $13.95   drinkhold
  
Trentino
DOC Trentino BOLLINI PINOT GRIGIO  2008
DOC Trentino  

'Natura & Passione' have been Neil and Maria Empson's guiding principles since the creation of the 'Bollini' line of wines in 1979. The Empsons continue to strive to find the ultimate expression of the best fruit from the most suitable vineyards. They 'intrude' as little as possible to ensure that the final wine is a true reflection of the place where it was grown. This fresh, versatile, citrus- and melon-scented wine would complement a grilled prawn dish or a selection of hors d'œuvres.

951319    (XD)            750 mL    $16.95   drink
  
Veneto
IGT delle Venezie New at VINTAGES
COLLALTO PINOT GRIGIO  2008
IGT delle Venezie  

With more than a thousand years of family winemaking tradition, current owner Princess Isabella Collato de Croÿ has a legacy to uphold with her estate's wines. This wine shows that the legacy is in very capable hands.

TASTING NOTE: Very pale straw in colour, this PG displays floral, lime, pear and yellow plum aromas. It's dry, medium-bodied with a soft texture and good depth of sweet citrus and orchard fruit flavours balanced by vibrant acidity. A shade more complex than most, this Grigio is refreshing on its own but would also pair well with a fish-based risotto. (VINTAGES panel, April 2009) 

135590    (XD)            750 mL    $18.95   drink

  
IGT Marca Trevigiana New at VINTAGES
LA-SALUTE MANZONI BIANCO  2007
IGT Marca Trevigiana  

TASTING NOTE: The Manzoni Bianco grape is a cross between Pinot Blanc and Riesling. This version shows its Riesling side of the family with its pretty floral and peach aromas as well as a hint of pineapple. It's dry with a fair amount of intensity to its white peach, apricot and sweet citrus fruit flavours, and there's a touch of kiwi on the medium-long finish. Enjoy it with baked mullet or bass seasoned with salt, pepper and oil and covered in lemon slices. (VINTAGES panel, April 2009) 

134981    (XD)            750 mL    $14.95   drink
  
 

red wine
Abruzzo
DOC TERRA D'ALIGI TATONE MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO  2005
DOC  

TASTING NOTE: Medium-deep ruby. Spiced plum, cherry and underbrush on the nose, plus a light dusting of cracked pepper. Supple, fruit-driven and sweet, with good grip to the smoky dark berry flavors. This has plenty of ripe fruit to support its acids and firm tannins. Finishes moderately long, with a touch of residual sugar. Score - 89. (Ian D'Agata, International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 2009) 

994616    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   drinkhold
  
Puglia
IGT Salento CANTINE DUE PALME PRIMITIVO  2005
IGT Salento  

Match it to grilled baby back ribs.

TASTING NOTE: Closest thing to a Cali-Zin I've ever tried; ripe plums and fruitiness - almost sweet-like in the mouth, jammy even; finish is smooth and delicious ... (Michael Pinkus, www.ontariowinereview.com, Aug. 2, 2008) 

658351    (D)            750 mL    $15.95   drink
  
Portugal

red wine
DOC Dão New at VINTAGES
ALIANÇA PARTICULAR  2006
DOC Dão  

TASTING NOTE: This single-vineyard wine is a blend of traditional Portuguese varieties, aged for 12 months in French oak. Deep ruby in colour, it is bursting with mixed-berry fruit aromas and flavours. It's dry, medium full-bodied with a mouth-filling texture and very nice balance. Enjoy with wine-and-garlic marinated pork, or a Portuguese-styled filet mignon in a mushroom sauce. (VINTAGES panel, March 2009) 

527473    (XD)            750 mL    $13.95   drinkhold
  
Vinho Regional Alentejano New at VINTAGES
ARAGONÊS DE SÃO MIGUEL DOS DESCOBRIDORES  2007
Vinho Regional Alentejano  
(Casa Agricola Alexandre Relvas)

TASTING NOTE: Aragonês is the Portuguese name for Spain's Tempranillo grape. Ruby red in colour, this rich and fruity version displays aromas of red plum, mixed berries, vanilla, and a touch of exotic spice. It's dry and very flavourful with good aroma replays, plus touches of pomegranate and light oak flavours. This is a vibrant, well-balanced wine that is ready to drink with beef tenderloin crusted with peppercorns. (VINTAGES panel, March 2009) 

131847    (XD)            750 mL    $17.95   drinkhold
  
DOC Alentejo VINTAGES Essentials Collection
ESPORÃO RESERVA RED (V)  2006
DOC Alentejo  

TASTING NOTE: This is a gorgeous blend - Trincadeira, Aragonês (a.k.a.Tempranillo), Cabernet Sauvignon and Alicante Bouschet - flirting with
5 stars; it's an oft-overlooked wine bargain in the LCBO. It's rich, powerful and brimming with aromas and flavours of boysenberry, cassis and succulent Bing cherry. The tannin is ripe and supple providing solid structure for this impeccably balanced gem. The finish truly lingers with a luxurious display of ripe fruit and balancing acidity ... Score - 4 1/2 Stars (out of 5). (Vic Harradine, www.winecurrent.com, July 4, 2009) 

606590    (XD)            750 mL    $24.95   drinkhold
  
Spain

red wine
DO Ribera del Duero BODEGAS ALEJANDRO FERNANDEZ TINTO PESQUERA CRIANZA  2006
DO Ribera del Duero  

TASTING NOTE: Bright ruby. Exotically perfumed aroma of red berries, cherry, spicecake and sandalwood becomes richer with air, picking up plum compote and bitter chocolate qualities that carry onto the palate. A rich, fleshy style that betrays no rough edges, as the fruit sucks up the tannins. This has the depth to age but there's plenty of complexity already. Serve it with a peppery, grilled piece of lamb. Score - 92+. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, Sept./Oct. 2008) 

341461    (XD)            750 mL    $29.95   drinkhold
  
DO Ribera del Duero BODEGAS ALEJANDRO FERNANDEZ TINTO PESQUERA RESERVA  2005
DO Ribera del Duero  

TASTING NOTE: Inky ruby. Seductively aromatic nose offers ripe red and dark berries, smoky minerals, aged beef, baking spices and flowers. Sweet black raspberry and cassis flavors are firmed by youthfully bitter tannins and complicated by floral pastille, vanilla bean and sweet chewing tobacco qualities. This is already showing some complexity, so it wouldn't be criminal to drink it now, but I'd leave mine alone for at least another six years. Score - 93(+?). (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, Sept./Oct. 2008) 

323345    (XD)            750 mL    $47.95   drinkhold
  
DOCa Rioja MARQUÉS DE VITORIA CRIANZA  2005
DOCa Rioja  

TASTING NOTE: Colour: cherry, orangey edge. Nose: spicy, cocoa bean, rose petals, fruit expression, fresh. Palate: fresh, fruity, powerful, flavourful.
Score - 90. (Peñin Guide to Spanish Wines, 2009) 

678045    (XD)            750 mL    $17.95   drinkhold
  
DO Penedès MIGUEL TORRES MAS LA PLANA CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2004
DO Penedès  

TASTING NOTE: ... Bright but deep crimson colour. Very alluring, smoky, exotic incense-like quality to the oak here of very high quality. Beneath, the fruit is opulent, suggesting round, rich, fleshy red berries and ripe blackcurrant. There's a touch of that undergrowth vegatility [sic] in the background. On the palate this has fabulous concentration, with the supple, fine tannins immediately adding grippy weight. The core of black fruit pushes through however, with a good edge of liquorice and cherry skin acidity and then the spice and coffee-bean richness emerging in the finish. Score - 91. (Tom Cannavan, www.wine-pages.com, May 2008) 

129676    (XD)            750 mL    $44.95   drinkhold