HENRY OF PELHAM SPECK FAMILY RESERVE RIESLING 2004
VQA Short Hills Bench  
643361    (XD)            750 mL    $29.75   

TASTING NOTE: If we had a 'Grand Cru' appellation system in Ontario, the Riesling vineyard of Henry of Pelham would catch attention. This vineyard produces lovely fruit. This wine is as rich and full as we find in the dry Rieslings of Alsace, and has a brilliant stripe of acidity lacing it together. The Speck Family is shooting for the stars with the low yields and hand crafted care they gave these grapes; job well done. (David Farnell, Wine Sense, May 2006)

Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2007 Cuvée Awards in Niagara Falls.

TASTING NOTE: Top billing goes to Creekside Estate 2004 Broken Press Shiraz with its huge, succulent black cherry, vanilla, chocolate and blackberry layers. Score - 92. (Gordon Stimmell, The Toronto Star, Feb. 21, 2007) 

In January 2007, at a blind-tasting pitting Ontario wines up against those of Bordeaux, Southbrook's 2002 Triomphus lived up to its name and took top spot, beating out Bordeaux's big tickets Lafite-Rothschild and Château Margaux, among others.

TASTING NOTE: As for his Bordeaux-slaying Triomphus red, I found it quite impressive and exceedingly polished, with crystal-clear fruit flavours and aromas. The nose offers up blackberry, cassis and cherry cola, followed by subtle notes of earth and tobacco, which follow through on the palate. The oak is nicely integrated and all the flavours seamlessly woven together, with no ragged edges. Frankly, I don't think I would have confused it for a Bordeaux (though blind tastings are always a revelation). For one thing, it doesn't exude the classic mineral character of some top Medoc reds. But it's remarkable nonetheless. (Beppi Crosariol, The Globe and Mail, Feb. 24, 2007)

De Loach OFS Chardonnay 2005
Russian River Valley, Sonoma  
729343    (XD)            750 mL    $48.60   

TASTING NOTE: A rich, smooth, creamy-textured wine, with ripe pear, melon, floral and hazelnut flavors that are long and complex. Drink now. Score - 89. (James Laube, www.winespectator.com, July 31, 2007) 

Dolce  2003
Napa Valley  
(Far Niente)
54718    (S)            375 mL    $93.25   

TASTING NOTE: The owners of Napa's Far Niente dedicate a vineyard, essentially a whole separate winemaking entity, to producing this flamboyant, resplendently layered sweet wine. The Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes--as in France's Sauternes--are left to hang in a foggy vineyard where the mold botrytis cinerea takes hold, shriveling the grapes (each five tons shrinks to only one) and concentrating the sugars to create this blockbuster wine, which combines racy vibrancy with a shower of apricot, honey and spring flower flavors. It is dessert in itself. (Richard Nalley, Forbes Magazine, April 23, 2007)

This limited-edition wine celebrates the 30^th anniversary of the 1976 Paris Tasting, in which a 1973 Chardonnay crafted by winemaker Mike Grgich came out on top of elite white Burgundies in a historic blind tasting. We’ve chosen the best barrels of wine from our cool Carneros vineyard to produce this intensely concentrated Chardonnay. The wine displays amazing complexity and richness, with flavors of crème brulée, pineapple, hazelnut, and spice, and brisk acidity leading into a clean, lingering finish. Delicious now, this wine will evolve nicely with time in the bottle. Only 867 cases produced— a true collector’s wine! (www.grgich.com)

Since the 2000 vintage, [Larry] Hyde has … bottled Chardonnay, Merlot blends and Syrah under the HdV label, a partnership between his family and Aubert de Villaine, co-owner of the famed Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in Burgundy and a relative by marriage … De Villaine has [made] periodic visits to the property over the past 20-plus years, noting the progress in the wines made by Larry … When an older block of Chardonnay, planted in 1979, became available for the 2000 vintage, Hyde and de Villaine pulled the trigger. "The family connection gave me the opportunity to make wine in the New World and to see the conditions in California and Carneros. I believe we can make vin de terroir, wine that expresses terroir," says de Villaine … Hyde and de Villaine both participate in the winemaking, especially in the blending decisions, but vintner Stéphane Vivier directs day-to-day production. Most of the wines have been either very good or outstanding … (Daniel Sogg, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2007)

MINER WILD YEAST CHARDONNAY 2005
Napa Valley  
45906    (D)            750 mL    $64.50   

TASTING NOTE: Complex notes of ripe apples, creme brulee, toasted bread and savory spices are combined in the deeply framed, rich aromas of this somewhat full-bodied, mouthfilling and well-balanced wine. It follows on the palate with ripe and wide-ranging flavors and has both the range and the depth to be a great mealtime choice to accompany well-seasoned roasted chickens served with fancy reduction sauce or for the fleshy fishes with fusion-influenced sauces. It does not need long-aging but is certain to reward a few years of patient cellaring. Score - 95. (Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wines, Sept. 2007)

OAKVILLE RANCH CHARDONNAY 2005
Napa Valley  
674960    (XD)            750 mL    $44.65   

TASTING NOTE: Best-ever Chardonnay from this winery. It is fragrant and complex in aroma (pear, toast, orange peel, vanilla, roasted nut), and full bodied, supple, fairly rich, and long on the palate, with a persistent finish. Drink through 2008. (Ronn Wiegand, www.vino.com, July 2007) 

ARCADIAN DIERBERG Vineyard PINOT NOIR 2003
Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara  
36632    (D)            750 mL    $68.45   

TASTING NOTE: Medium red with a palish rim. Rather reduced nose offers spices, meat, mocha and smoke. Supple and plump, with strawberry, mineral and smoke flavors complicated by lovely pinot earth character. Very sweet, smooth wine, finishing with supple tannins and very good length … Score - 90. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Sept./Oct. 2006) 

Bacio Divino 2004
Napa Valley  
979047    (XD)            750 mL    $76.35   

TASTING NOTE: A big, rich, intensely flavored Cabernet blend, with firm, chunky tannins wrapped around a core of black cherry, wild berry, earth, mineral and sage, ending with gritty tannins. Needs cellaring or decanting. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Petite Sirah and Merlot. Drink now through 2012. Score - 91. (James Laube, www.winespectator.com, May 15, 2007) 

CHIMNEY ROCK CABERNET SAUVIGNON RESERVE 2002
Stags Leap District, Napa Valley   
602482    (D)            750 mL    $98.20   

TASTING NOTE: The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Stag’s Leap District Reserve’s deep ruby/purple color is followed by a discrete but complex nose of black fruits, licorice, earth, and subtle oak. Rich and medium-bodied, with outstanding intensity and a long, rich finish, it should be consumed over the next 10-12 years. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2005) 

De Loach Forgotten Vines Zinfandel 2005
Sonoma County  
52233    (XD)            750 mL    $53.55   

De Loach was acquired recently by Boisset, Vincor's French partner in their brilliant Ontario Le Clos Jordanne venture. Boisset's first order of business was to uproot several vineyards containing grape varieties they felt the winery should no longer concentrate upon. This very Burgundian philosophy means they concentrate on a smaller selection of varieties, including what many consider their signature grape, Zinfandel.

TASTING NOTE: 2005 Forgotten Vines Zinfandel is not forgettable -- lush and plummy, with an elegant finish. (James Knight, North Bay Bohemian (U.S.), July 11-17, 2007) 

De Loach OFS Pinot Noir 2005
Russian River Valley, Sonoma  
703926    (XD)            750 mL    $48.60   

TASTING NOTE: Essentially governed by its fine complement of vital young fruit yet receiving a jump start in richness from its sweet and plentiful oak, this latest from DeLoach is a well-filled and comparatively polished Pinot whose supple feel and wholesale lack of angles and edges afford it with lots of come-hither appeal even now. It does not, however, lack for brightness or balance, and it shows no sign of fading away soon. Score - 88. (Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wines, Oct. 2007)

De Loach Ofs Zinfandel 2004
Russian River Valley, Sonoma  
703694    (XD)            750 mL    $48.60   

TASTING NOTE: Appealing for its plum, pepper and toasty oak aromas and rustic, concentrated dried blueberry and licorice flavors. The tannins turn tight and dry on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2011. Score - 89. (www.winespectator.com, June 30, 2007)

Dunn Vineyards Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon  2003
Napa Valley  
709204    (XD)            750 mL    $126.95   

TASTING NOTE: The powerful, strong 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain may turn out to be richer and fuller than either the 2001 or 2002, an atypical scenario. Its dense blue/purple color is followed by a big, rich nose of cassis, blueberries, minerals, and flowers. Rich, full-bodied, and powerfully tannic, it is classic Dunn stuff. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030. Score - (92-94). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2005) 

Etude Merlot 2003
Napa Valley  
48249    (XD)            750 mL    $88.25   

TASTING NOTE: Abundant berry and sweet cherry flavors with mocha, coffee and ripe tannins to give it good complexity and length. (Tom Marquardt & Patrick Darr, The World (Oregon), Oct. 9, 2007) 

Martin Ray Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Napa Valley  
903146    (XD)            750 mL    $64.50   

TASTING NOTE: 13% Merlot. Nicely defined and fairly energetic young curranty fruit gets a nice boost in complexity from glimmers of black soil and stones in the nose, and these same elements of minerals sit just beneath cassis and carefully-matched oak in the wine's very well-focused flavors. Controlled in its ripeness and never hinting at excess, this wine succeeds by virtue of proportion rather than power, and its neatly fit spine of tannin ensures a half-decade of positive growth. Score - 89. (Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wines, Dec. 2006)

Miner Sangiovese Gibson Ranch 2004
Mendocino  
48645    (XD)            750 mL    $28.80   

TASTING NOTE: I know from your emails that many of you have been dreaming about [this] wine, as I have, since last summer when we had the previous vintages. When I tasted [it] over the winter, it was like a little trip to summertime on a cold and rainy day.  The Sangiovese has a very ripe strawberry jam scent and flavor, and lots of cumin and cardamom spiciness. (Andrea Immer Robinson, andreawine.ewinerysolutions.com, June 2006) 

Raymond Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Reserve 2003
Napa Valley  
54734    (XD)            750 mL    $35.70   

TASTING NOTE: Oh what a nice young Cabernet this is. With lots of new French oak, it shows a beautifully balanced, elegant opulence. The fruit is impeccably ripe, all blackberries and cassis, and the all-important tannins are softly ripe and sweet. You could open it now, but it should develop additional bottle complexity after 2007. Score - 92. (Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast, May 2007)

Viader 2004
Napa Valley  
994004    (XD)            750 mL    $119   

TASTING NOTE: (a 60/40 blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc) Good deep red-ruby. Blackberry, violet and licorice aromas, complicated by leather and graphite. Wonderfully sweet, silky and suave, with an inner-mouth aromatic quality rare for the year. This very well-balanced blend is juicy, even a bit youthfully tight, and finishes with impressive perfume. Has the mid-palate sweetness to balance its firm tannic spine and offers a lovely combination of density and elegance. In comparison to this vintage, the 2003 release is more of an "upfront" wine, notes Viader, who pointed out that her flagship wine's cabernet franc element is more important to its aging potential than the sauvignon. Score - 92. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, May/June 2007) 

Von Strasser Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District 2004
Napa Valley  
54601    (XD)            750 mL    $59.50   

TASTING NOTE: Von Strasser released this 2004 relatively early, the winery's stock of 2003 having been wiped out in a warehouse fire. Those with patience to wait for it to develop will be rewarded with a dynamic red. Its response to air gives a clue to how the rich, soil-driven tannins will eveolve toward silkiness, how the youthful, black fruit intensity will yield to a sleek, lusty jice. If you open it now now, decant the bottle several hours before dinner, to serve with grilled lamb tenderloin. Score - 92. (Joshua Greene, Wine & Spirits, Dec. 2006)

ST. INNOCENT SHEA VINEYARD PINOT NOIR 2005
Willamette Valley  
949271    (D)            750 mL    $48.60   

TASTING NOTE: The 2005 Pinot Noir “Shea Vineyard” exhibits spice box, cedar, roses, violets, and wild raspberry. This splendid perfume leads to a wine with very good flavors as well as a compact, firm, tannic finish. If this wine rounds out after the requisite time needed in the cellar, my rating will appear conservative. However, it is a gamble. Score - 91. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007) 

JIM BARRY THE FLORITA RIESLING 2004
Clare Valley, South Australia  
24232    (XD)            750 mL    $42.65   

TASTING NOTE: Bracingly tart, but lively with juicy lime, pear and mineral flavors, remaining zingy and fresh through the long, vibrant finish, echoing floral and mineral notes forever. Drink now through 2012. Score - 92. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2005)

CHARLES MELTON CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003
Barossa Valley, South Australia  
960518    (D)            750 mL    $38.70   

TASTING NOTE: Smooth, supple and ripe blackcurrant fruit; ripe tannins and restrained oak; great outcome for the vintage. Drink: [until] 2013. Score - 91. (James Halliday, winecompanion.com.au, Jan. 2006)

CHARLES MELTON SHIRAZ 2003
Barossa Valley, South Australia  
951905    (D)            750 mL    $38.70   

TASTING NOTE: Inauspicious colour; earthy, savoury fruit with some spicy notes; medium-bodied, soft tannins. Drink: [until] 2009. Score - 90. (James Halliday, winecompanion.com.au, Oct. 2005) 

GIBSON OLD VINE COLLECTION SHIRAZ 2003
Barossa Valley, South Australia  
15198    (D)            750 mL    $88.25   

TASTING NOTE: A profound offering fashioned from 93- to 140-year-old vines, the 2003 Old Vine Collection Shiraz boasts extraordinary elegance and precision along with a deep, black raspberry and cassis-scented nose, beautiful sweetness, a peppery, spicy purity on the attack, full body, superb ripeness, decent acidity, and a long, heady, supple finish. It should drink well for a minimum of 10-15 years. Score - 95. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2005)

Katnook Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 1998
Coonawarra, South Australia  
46474    (XD)            3000 mL    $224.10   

TASTING NOTE: Yet another Katnook red straight from the top drawer. It's a complex, sophisticated package whose vibrant flavours of violets and dark fruit marry perfectly with smoky mocha and cedar oak qualities. Powerful yet very supple and elegant, it reveals great depth and restraint. Drink: 2010+. Score - 19 (out of 20). (Jeremy Oliver, www.jeremyoliver.com.au, May 1, 2000)

Katnook Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
Coonawarra, South Australia  
47761    (XD)            3000 mL    $208.25   

TASTING NOTE: Deep red. Sweet, smoky aromas of cherry, plum and tobacco, with accents of espresso and eucalyptus. Plump and quite sweet, but with a firm tannic spine giving focus to the cherry and redcurrant flavors. Varietally typical cabernet, with an enticing interplay of earth, herb and fruit flavors and excellent focus. Finishes with fine, dusty tannins and lingering sweetness. Score - 90. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 2006) 

Massena The Eleventh Hour Shiraz 2005
Barossa Valley, South Australia  
39073    (XD)            750 mL    $38.70   

TASTING NOTE: From 60- to 100-year old vines that were saved from the bulldozer during the infamous Barossa “vine pull” (hence the name), the 2005 Shiraz 11th Hour was cropped at .5 tons of fruit per acre, and aged in 100% French oak, of which 5% was new. Sweet, pure aromas of blackberries, blueberries, crushed pepper, and flowers jump from the glass of this inky/purple-colored Shiraz. As one might expect from such tiny yields, it is a wine of great intensity, massive body, and tremendous purity, definition, and length. While still primary, it gives all the indications of being a modern day classic that should last and improve for 15-20 years. Score - 96. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006) 

Oliverhill Jimmy Section Shiraz 2005
McLaren Vale, South Australia  
46409    (XD)            750 mL    $45.65   

TASTING NOTE: One of South Australia’s finest efforts is Oliverhill’s 2005 Shiraz Jimmy Section. Aged in 100% French oak (33% new) for 17 months, it is an unbelievably dense wine boasting an exquisite perfume of spring flowers, blackberry and blueberry jam, smoky pain grille, and graphite. Huge intensity, full body, and stunning concentration, richness, and length suggest this spectacular wine will age effortlessly for 10-15+ years. Score - 96. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006)

Penfolds Magill Estate Shiraz 2004
South Australia  
944736    (XD)            750 mL    $79.35   

TASTING NOTE: The 2004 Shiraz “Magill Estate” is a single vineyard offering which spent 13 months in French and American oak, 90% new. It delivers a splendid nose of smoke, pencil lead, violets, blueberry, and blackberry. Supple textured and seamless, it has loads of flavor, terrific depth, and a long, pure finish. Allow 3-4 years for the wine to unfold and drink it through 2024. Score - 93. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007) 

PENFOLDS ST. HENRI SHIRAZ 2003
South Australia  
510875    (XD)            750 mL    $58.50   

TASTING NOTE: The 2003 Shiraz “St. Henri” sees no new oak. It was aged for 14 months in large vats and represents the traditional style of winemaking before barriques came into vogue. It offers up meaty, savory aromas, leather, sage, blueberry, and blackberry. Smoothly textured, with excellent depth, it has enough structure to evolve for 4-6 years and will drink well through 2023 Score - 90. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007) 

Rockford Winery is a world apart. Rockford shows what Barossa can really do. Using grapes bought from exceptional vineyards in Barossa Valley and neighbouring Eden Valley, [winemaker Chris] Ringland is almost un-Australian in his naturalistic, hands-off winemaking approach. (Matt Kramer, www.theage.com.au, March 15, 2005)

ROSEMOUNT BALMORAL SYRAH 2002
McLaren Vale, South Australia 
388918    (XD)            750 mL    $64.50   

TASTING NOTE: Smooth and velvety, this stylish Shiraz has lively acidity to balance the expressive cherry and blueberry fruit, which is shaded with toasty, spicy notes that add plenty of interest. Has depth and focus, but needs time to settle in. Best from 2009 through 2017. Score - 92. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Aug. 31, 2007)

TWO HANDS THE BULL & THE BEAR SHIRAZ/CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005
Barossa Valley, South Australia  

9464    (XD)            750 mL    $48.60   

TASTING NOTE: (A 67/33 blend) Inky ruby. Smoky cherry and dark berry aromas are complicated by cured tobacco, mocha and bright minerality. A fresh, juicy midweight whose blackcurrant and plum flavors are nicely firmed by fine-grained tannins. This slowly expands on the finish with extensive aeration but seems a bit youthfully wound up right now. Score - 90 (+?). (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 2007) 

TWO HANDS YESTERDAY'S HERO GRENACHE 2006
Barossa Valley, South Australia  

9506    (D)            750 mL    $41.65   

TASTING NOTE: Bright red. Suave redcurrant and strawberry aromas, with deeper suggestions of cured meat and rose oil. Silky, sweet red berry flavors show a nice mix of brightness and depth, and a round, fleshy texture. Dusty tannins build on the finish, which features a zesty mineral tone and excellent length. The vines here are from 50 to 80 years old, according to owner Michael Twelftree. Score - 91. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 2007) 

WOLF BLASS BLACK LABEL 31^st VINTAGE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON/SHIRAZ/MALBEC 2003
Barossa Valley/Langhorne Creek/Coonawarra, South Australia   
52811    (D)            3000 mL    $396.65   

TASTING NOTE: Dark and dense, with blackberry, black cherry and licorice flavors working together to power through a fine curtain of tannins, melding harmoniously on the long, vibrant finish. Bordering on plush, this just needs some cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Malbec. Best from 2010 through 2020. Score – 93. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2007)

WOLF BLASS PLATINUM LABEL SHIRAZ 2004
Barossa, South Australia  
968123    (XD)            750 mL    $99.20   


TASTING NOTE: Dark and juicy. A harmonious, complex wine that has a welcome lift of acidity to the blackberry, cherry and licorice flavors, persisting on the fleshy finish against very fine tannins. Drink now through 2014. Score – 93. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com , Sept. 30, 2007)

WOLF BLASS PLATINUM LABEL SHIRAZ 2003
Barossa, South Australia  

52803    (XD)            3000 mL    $495.80   

TASTING NOTE:  Lithe, refined style delivers a generous mouthful of blueberry, blackberry and peppery spice flavors that linger on the open finish against slightly grainy tannins. Has freshness and grace. Best from 2008 through 2015. Score - 92. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2006) 

CRAGGY RANGE GIMBLETT GRAVELS VINEYARD MERLOT 2002
Hawkes Bay, North Island  
685560    (XD)            750 mL    $42.65   

TASTING NOTE: A great buy, the 2002 vintage was blended with Malbec (9 per cent) and Cabernet Sauvignon (6 per cent), and matured for 16 months in French oak barriques (45 per cent new). It's a youthful Hawke's Bay red with huge, inky colour, rich, sweet fruit characters and highly concentrated, spicy, nutty, almost chocolatey flavours. Savoury, earthy, leathery complexities are emerging, but the wine has a tight tannin grip and is best cellared to 2006+. Score -**** 1/2 (out of 5). (Michael Cooper, Buyer’s Guide to New Zealand Wines, 2005) 

Engelbrecht-Els Cirrus Syrah 2004
WO Western Cape  
54338    (XD)            750 mL    $45.65   

TASTING NOTE: Rich and dark, with lots of blackberry, espresso and mineral flavors and a long, velvety finish. Showy, but balanced and pure. Contains 6 percent Viognier. Drink now. Score - 91. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2007)

Graham Beck The Joshua Shiraz/Viognier 2003
WO Franschoek  
661751    (XD)            750 mL    $31.75   

TASTING NOTE: 9% infusion [viognier] in finer [than 02] 03, not to soften but to bring perfume, more complexity, à la Côte Rôtie. Very ripe (enormous 15.5% alc) sour cherry, roasted spice flavours. Yr Fr/Am barrels, 60/40. Will develop 6+ yrs, but already drinking well.
Score - **** (out of 5). (Christine Rudman, John Platter South African Wines, 2005)

Ken Forrester The Gypsy Grenache/Syrah 2004
WO Stellenbosch  
38364    (XD)            750 mL    $54.55   

TASTING NOTE: Fleshy, open and inviting, with dark cocoa powder, tobacco, black currant and fig notes carried by fine-grained and supple tannins. The long, velvety finish has a lingering hint of black tea, with nice latent power in reserve. Drink now through 2009.
Score - 90. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Nov. 30, 2007)

CASA LAPOSTOLLE CUVÉE ALEXANDRE SYRAH 2005
Co
627331    (D)            750 mL    $34.70   

TASTING NOTE: Outrageously delicious syrah from Chile with heady aromas of pepper, juicy black currants, blueberry, leather, roasted meats and a hint of minty herbs. This is thick, complex stuff with wild berries, sweet spice and a pepper kick to go with chewy tannins and firm, toasty/oaky notes. (Rick Van Sickle, The Calgary Sun, Nov. 11, 2007) 

Echeverria Limited Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Central Valley  

52522    (XD)            750 mL    $28.80   

TASTING NOTE: The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Limited Edition has more to say aromatically with its spice box, vanilla, black cherry and black currant nuances. The wine has well-integrated tannin but is slightly tart in the firm finish. Score - 88. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, June 2007) 

ErrAzuriz Shiraz La Cumbre 2005
Aconcagua Valley  
579821    (XD)            750 mL    $77.35   

TASTING NOTE: While at the vineyard, I tasted La Cumbre 2005, made from Syrah planted at the top of a range of hills at the Aconcagua estate. And the cuttings were special too. "I went to Hermitage in France to see how they could plant vines on really steep hills, and the cuttings came from there," said Eduardo. The result is a powerful wine, full of spice, layered on top of cassis and chocolate. This hasn't yet reached the market, but when it does, it will be a sensation. (Christine Austin, The Yorkshire Post (U.K.), Aug. 10, 2007)

Miguel Torres Manso de Velasco 2004
Curicó Valley  
719716    (XD)            750 mL    $40.70   

TASTING NOTE: Manso ranks among the biggest, most historic and most consistent Chilean Cabernets going. The 2004 isn’t perfect but it exhibits classic old-vines blueberry and cassis aromas and flavors. There’s not too much obvious oak and the tannins seem a little soft. Which means it’s more or less ready to drink now (ahead of the ’03). Score - 90. (Michael Schachner, Wine Enthusiast, Sept. 2007)

Hugel Gewurztraminer Selection de Grains Nobles 1998
AC Alsace  
950675    (MS)            375 mL    $57.55   

TASTING NOTE: Aromatically, the 1998 Gewurztraminer "Hugel" Selection de Grains Nobles is unbelievably spicy. This youthful wine is intensely rich and thick. Oily layers of raspberries and creamy yellow fruits (mostly apricots) are found in its dense personality. Intricate, yet forward, complex, and generous, this opulent wine should be at its finest between 2005-2015.
Score - 94. (Pierre Rovani, www.erobertparker.com, June 2000)

Hugel Riesling Selection de Grains Nobles 2000
AC Alsace  
39164    (MS)            375 mL    $117.05   

TASTING NOTE: Thick and intense. Packed with caramel, baked apple, pine and spice aromas and flavors, balanced by lively acidity. Concentrated and opulent, yet finishes clean. Long aftertaste of apricot and honey. Drink now through 2040. Score - 98. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) 

Château Bastor-Lamontagne 2001
AC Sauternes  
46789    (MS)            750 mL    $53.55   

TASTING NOTE: Possibly the finest effort I have ever tasted from this estate, Bastor Lamontagne’s light gold-colored 2001 is a tropical fruit cocktail offering abundant quantities of apricot, lychee, honeysuckle, and other tropical fruit characteristics with little evidence of oak. Excellent acidity, which provides tremendous definition, and a lusty, heady finish suggest this fun sweetie will drink well now and over the next 10-14 years. A sleeper of the vintage.
Score - 91. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, June 2004)

ChÂteau Bahans-Haut-Brion 2003
AC Pessac-Léognan  
596403    (XD)            750 mL    $94.20   

TASTING NOTE: Loads of blackberry, raspberry and jam on the nose with just hints of green tobacco. Full-bodied, round and long, with fresh fruit and a clean finish. Second wine from Haut-Brion. Best after 2012. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006) 

CHÂTEAU CALON-SÉGUR 2004
AC St-Estèphe, 3^e Cru  
671594    (XD)            750 mL    $68.45   

TASTING NOTE: Intense aromas of currant bush and berries that turn to roses. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a floral, leafy and fruity aftertaste. Builds on the palate. Needs time. Best after 2011. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2007)

Château Ducru Beaucaillou 1982
AC St-Julien, 2^e Cru  
924795    (XD)            750 mL    $566.20   

TASTING NOTE: A wine of extraordinary aromatic complexity and finesse, this sweet effort possesses a dark ruby color with a pink rim. Once past the gloriously complex aromatics (blueberries, black currants, minerals, and underbrush), the wine reveals terrific fruit intensity, excellent harmony, medium body, sweet tannin, and a long finish. This superb, elegant 1982 has achieved full maturity, but it promises to last for another 15+ years. Score - 94. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, June 2000) 

Château Grand-Corbin-Despagne 2000
AC St-Émilion  
45344    (XD)            750 mL    $77.35   

TASTING NOTE: This has been a property to watch since the late nineties. All of the recent vintages have represented a relatively virile, muscular, tannic style of St.-Emilion. The black/purple-colored 2000 is a sleeper of the vintage. Revealing aromas of plum, wood smoke, iron, blackberries, licorice, underbrush, and cassis, this full-bodied, layered, powerful, muscular St.-Emilion has some tannin to shed, but its finish reveals considerable persistence. It is a strong, virile, broodingly impressive effort. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2018. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, April 2003) 

ChÂteau Haut-Bages LibÉral 1995
AC Pauillac, 5^e Cru  
45377    (XD)            750 mL    $110.10   

TASTING NOTE: A deep purple wine, obviously different from those that have preceded. Sweet black fruits and ground coffee on the nose. No surprises on the palate, which has a sweet, full and rounded texture, plenty of fruit and approachable tannins. Good acidity. Drink 2004 onwards. Very good. (Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com, July 2002) 

ChÂteau HOSANNA 2003
AC Pomerol  
587196    (XD)            750 mL    $184.40   

TASTING NOTE: Aromas of blackberry, forest fruits and licorice with just a hint of spice. Full-bodied, with loads of ripe fruit and velvety tannins. Raisins, toasted oak and just a hint of dark chocolate. Best after 2010. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006) 

ChÂteau Larrivet-Haut-Brion 1999
AC Pessac-Léognan  
593699    (XD)            750 mL    $55.55   

TASTING NOTE: This perfumed, sexy effort is dominated by complex aromas of scorched earth, Provencal garrigue notes, and black cherries. It is medium-bodied, with serious concentration, moderate tannin, and a long finish. This plum/garnet-colored wine will benefit from 2-3 more years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2015. Score - 89. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Apriil 2002)

ChÂteau L'Eglise Clinet 2000
AC Pomerol  
46771    (XD)            750 mL    $534.45   

TASTING NOTE: This has everything. Super class and elegance, yet ripe and exciting. Fantastic aromas of blackberries, cherries, violets and minerals. Full-bodied, with incredible raspberry, cherry, mineral and silky tannins. Very long. Winemaker Denis Durantou is a purist, and it shows. Best after 2012. Score - 97. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2003) 

CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 2003
AC St-Julien, 2^e Cru  
596502    (XD)            750 mL    $386.70   

TASTING NOTE: Incredible nose of crushed berry, licorice, violets and lightly toasted oak. Pure crème de cassis. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Solid. Best after 2011. Score - 97. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006)

ChÂteau Lynch-Bages 2001
AC Pauillac, 5^e Cru  
9878    (XD)            750 mL    $125.95   

TASTING NOTE: Clean and sleek, with tobacco, berry and plum character, medium body and a silky, fresh finish. Firm and balanced Lynch. Best after 2007. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2004)

ChÂteau Malescot-St-ExupÉry 2000
AC Margaux, 3^e Cru  
38232    (XD)            750 mL    $146.75   

TASTING NOTE: Intense aromas of crushed berries, earth, meat and spice. Full-bodied, with super well-integrated tannins and a long, green tobacco and berry finish. This is an estate on the rise. Superfine. Almost forgotten by some. Best after 2010. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2003)

ChÂteau Moulin St-Georges 1999
AC St-Émilion  
721712    (XD)            750 mL    $77.35   

TASTING NOTE: The dense, ruby/purple-colored, elegant St.-Emilion is a sleeper of the vintage. The wine exhibits a sweet blackberry/blueberry nose with striking minerality and purity. It is medium-bodied, long, rich, and structured. This 1999 will actually benefit from several years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2016. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, April 2002)

CHÂTEAU MOUTON ROTHSCHILD 2003
AC Pauillac, 1^er Cru  

595975    (XD)            750 mL    $580.05   

TASTING NOTE: Backward, powerful, and extremely tannic, the dense purple-colored 2003 Mouton-Rothschild, a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, fashioned from yields of 28 hectoliters per hectare, with a finished alcohol of 12.9%, improves dramatically with aeration. With full-bodied, meaty, powerful, dry flavors as well as a huge finish, this high class wine should be at its finest between 2012-2040+. During its sojourn in barrel, it reminded me of a hypothetical blend of the 1982 and 1986 Moutons, but since bottling, it appears different, and even more tannic than those two vintages. I still believe the finest recent Mouton-Rothschild is the 2000. Score - 95. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)

Albert Bichot Chablis Moutonne 2004
AC, Grand Cru  
46706    (XD)            750 mL    $91.25   

TASTING NOTE: Pure and stony, with a grainy texture and lively structure that set the stage for honey, herb and mineral flavors. Balanced, but will integrate even better over the next few years. Decant to drink now. Best from 2009 through 2018. Score - 90. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2006) 

DOMAINE DOUDET CORTON-CHARLEMAGNE 2003
AC, Grand Cru  
(Doudet-Naudin)
672477    (XD)            750 mL    $118   

Doudet-Naudin has been a family operation since 1849. Today, Yves Doudet, with his two collaborators Emmanuel Berteloot and Alain Ambroise, defends the virtues of one of the last small and completely independent houses in the Côte d'Or. Guided by a deep respect for the environment and nature's role in the wine-making process, the wines of Domaine Doudet are an unadulterated expression of terroir. This intense, mineral-rich, 100% Chardonnay is an ideal cellar candidate that can be called upon for many years to come.

Henri Boillot Meursault Les Cras 2004
AC, 1^er Cru  
39248    (XD)            750 mL    $107.10   

TASTING NOTE: A fascinating nose of chalk nuance, smoke, minerals and floral hints combine with delicious, racy and driving flavors replete with excellent dry extract with even better precision and finishing intensity. Most impressive and this too is recommended. Outstanding. Score - 91. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, July 1, 2006)

Founded in 1814, J. Moreau & Fils is a Chablis specialist. This prestigious grand cru hails from the Valmur climat and displays an expressive nose of mineral notes with hints of peach and almond. The palate is replete with flavours of white fruit and bitter almond. There is a refreshing acidity on the palate, typical for a young wine, which will soften with ageing. Excellent now with salmon or shellfish, but will reward cellaring.

Valmur (a mere 11.92 ha in size) is one of seven climats, or vineyards, that make up the Chablis Grand Cru appellation. Robert Parker says, "The production from these sloping hillside vineyards should and frequently does turn out the very finest wines, largely because all of them sit on the richest Kimmeridgian limestone soil, which is intermixed with some mud". This steely, dry Chablis offers a pleasing minerality with delicious honey flavours and toast notes. It's an ageworthy white that can be enjoyed now with planked salmon or will reward short-term cellaring.

JEAN-MARC PILLOT CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET LES BAUDINES 2002
AC, 1^er Cru  
33746    (XD)            750 mL    $98.20   

TASTING NOTE: Tighter still on the nose with notably pure, refined and mineral-infused aromas that merge into delicious, racy and relatively forward flavors that are more open than usual with a long and opulent finish. In short, this is a wine of contrasts with a backward nose but exuberant flavors and finish. Drink: 2006-2011. Score - 90. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, July 1, 2004) 

JEAN-MARC PILLOT CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET LES MACHERELLES 2002
AC, 1^er Cru  
33753    (XD)            750 mL    $98.20   

TASTING NOTE: Bigger and denser than the Baudines with an expressive rich orchard fruit nose and sweet, very pure full-bodied flavors blessed with solid concentration and excellent length if not quite the precision and less minerality. A fruity and forward yet entirely serious effort with plenty of appeal. Drink: 2007-12. Score - 90. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, July 2004) 

MARC COLIN CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET LES CHAMPS GAIN 2003
AC, 1^er Cru  
25882    (D)            750 mL    $88.25   

TASTING NOTE: Loads of white flowers (lilies), chalk, talcum powder, and limestone are found in the expressive aromatics of the 2003 Chassagne-Montrachet Champs Gains (white). Its impressive character, filled with white fruits and minerals, is satin-textured, angle-free, and long. Armed with excellent depth of fruit, this effort is a candidate for drinking over the next 5-6 years. Score - 89. (Pierre Rovani, www.erobertparker.com, April 2005)

MARC COLIN CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET LES CHENEVOTTES 2003
AC  
25908    (XD)            750 mL    $88.25   

TASTING NOTE: A sleeker style, supple and braced with mineral, oak and baked apple aromas and flavors. It seems less evolved in this group and though open-knit midpalate, it finishes with intensity. Drink now through 2012. Score - 90. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Feb. 28, 2006) 

Antonin Guyon Corton-Clos du Roy 2002
AC, Grand Cru  
715342    (XD)            750 mL    $89.25   

TASTING NOTE: At most domaines that make both a Clos du Roy and a Bressandes, I usually have a preference for the Bressandes because I like the elegance but chez Guyon, it's the opposite as the Clos du Roy is almost always their best wine and it's certainly the case in 2002. This is a big, robust and very masculine wine of considerable size and weight yet it's the superb complexity that drives this to the next level. While this is structured, it's not as tight and reserved as the Bressandes but surprisingly, it is just as precise and the sappy, rich, beautifully intense finish goes on and on. A terrific effort that will require the better part of a decade to arrive at its peak. Drink: 2010-17. Score - 90-92. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, April 2004)

Antonin Guyon Gevrey-Chambertin 2004
AC  
585927    (XD)            750 mL    $55.55   

TASTING NOTE: This is an impressively elegant wine for its level with high-toned red and black fruit aromas nuanced by obvious earth and game hints that combine with forward, rich, precise and very pure middle weight flavors that are at once delicious yet serious. A first rate villages and recommended. Drink: 2008+. Score - 88-90. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, April 2006) 

Bouchard AÎnÉ & Fils Clos de la Roche CuvÉe Signature 2003
AC, Grand Cru  
51581    (XD)            750 mL    $125.95   

TASTING NOTE: The fruit here is intense, like wild cherries and strawberries, with a touch of licorice and mineral accents. Soft and lush, yet with muscular tannins, this glides to a long finish. Best from 2008 through 2025. Score - 91. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, May 15, 2006) 

Bouchard AÎnÉ & Fils ÉchÉzeaux Cuvée Signature 2004
AC, Grand Cru  
51599    (XD)            750 mL    $125.95   

TASTING NOTE: Powerful and intense, with flavors of licorice, truffle and red fruits, this is a solid, concentrated wine with plenty of potential for aging. It shows the pedigree of its vineyard in the richness of the fruit as well as its structure, which leaves both freshness and dryness on the finish. Score - 92. (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, March 2007)

Domaine de la Vougeraie Gevrey-Chambertin Les Evocelles 2003
AC  
51045    (XD)            750 mL    $77.35   

TASTING NOTE: This bursts with red and black cherry, licorice and spice aromas and flavors on an opulent profile. It has a sweet, fruit-filled center and finely meshed tannins. Fine lingering aftertaste of black cherry and licorice. An incredible village red. Best from 2007 through 2018. Score – 92. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com , May 31, 2006)

DOMAINE FRANÇOIS LAMARCHE ÉCHÉZEAUX 2004
AC, Grand Cru  
6858    (XD)            750 mL    $94.20   

TASTING NOTE: There is a bit more of everything on the smoky dark berry fruit nose on the wonderfully complex, dense and pure flavors that culminate in a ripe, sweet and vibrant finish. This is a lovely wine with a bit more elegance than I usually find here. Drink: 2011+. Score - 91. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, Jan. 2007) 

The Raphet style is unmistakable - vibrant Pinot fruit and sweet tannins all resting upon a foundation of earth and spice.

TASTING NOTE: Noticeable and more insistent oak spice frames smoky, ripe and moderately ripe red and black fruit aromas that dissolve into acceptably concentrated middle weight flavors that are surprisingly powerful for their size and this trades more on focus and punch than muscle. Solid if not distinguished. Drink: 2012+. Score - 89-91. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, Jan. 2006) 

Domaine Jacques Prieur Corton Bressandes 2005
AC, Grand Cru  
47001    (D)            750 mL    $173.55   

TASTING NOTE: The Prieur 2005 Corton Bressandes exudes intensely ripe blackberry and cassis just like its Clos des Santenots stablemate, but offers additional suggestions of mineral as well as distinctively animal notes. Admirably bright and sweet, it truly stains the palate. Even with the influx in its finish of meat and stony mineral underpinnings, this remains a very flashy, irrepressibly sweetly-fruited style of Corton, with new wood playing a supporting but not obtrusive role … Score - (92-93). (David Schildknecht, www.erobertparker.com, June 2007) 

Domaine Jacques Prieur ÉchÉzeaux 2005
AC, Grand Cru  
47019    (D)            750 mL    $238   

TASTING NOTE: From Champs Traversins, a relatively drought-resistant, clay-rich, yet cool and breezy section of the appellation just south of Orveaux, Prieur’s 2005 Echezeaux exhibits liqueur-like blackberry and black cherry with resinous, smoky new oak overtones in the nose. Intensely concentrated on the palate but (in light of the stylistic trend at this address) surprisingly free of superficial sweetness, this substantial, in fact, downright, weighty wine is loaded with tannin that lends a certain severity. But there is the beginning of a certain creaminess as well. Smoked meats mingle with concentrated berry distillates and toasty oak in the finish … Score - (92-93). (David Schildknecht, www.erobertparker.com, June 2007)

JAcQUES PRIEUR MEURSAULT CLOS DE MAZERAY 2005
AC  
47308    (XD)            750 mL    $67.45   

TASTING NOTE: From another Prieur monopole, just beyond their winery, the 2005 Meursault Clos de Mazeray offers bright, fresh aromas and flavors of both red and black raspberry. A distinctly wet stone component lends some gravitas, and a distilled fruit overtone emerges with airing. This infectiously juicy wine can probably trace its prominent, lip-smacking fruit acidity (if not perhaps its distinct minerality) to the deeper, more water-retentive (and thus in 2005 less vine-stressing) soil of this site. Nearly all bottlings from this negociant – on an upward path since the influx of Rodet capital in the early ‘90s – in fact originate in the Domaine Jacques Prieur. Martin Prieur and his team have striven to capture purity of fruit through gentle extraction, although for my taste I found some of their 2005s overly confectionary due to the influence of toasty new wood on already very sweetly ripe raw material. After malo – which was generally quite late here this year – the wines were sulfured but not yet racked. Score - 89. (David Schildknecht, www.erobertparker.com, June 2007)

Mommessin Morey St. Denis La Forge de Tart 2004
AC, 1^er Cru  
48876    (XD)            750 mL    $124.95   

TASTING NOTE: The nose shows spice and a good core of fruit. Tasting shows a little fat and earth, interesting flavours, nice concentration and good acidity. Some tannin shows, but it's not too unruly and the finish lasts well. Worth it's 1^er Cru label. (Bill Nanson, www.burgundy-report.com, Spring 2006) 

Cave de Tain L'Hermitage Hermitage White Au Coeur des SiÈcles 2004
AC
  
51532   (XD)            750 mL    $57.55   

TASTING NOTE: Juicy but elegant, with a focused core of mango, melon and guava flavors. Pretty floral and toast notes chime in on the lengthy, creamy finish. Nice mineral hint extends it too. Drink now through 2007. Score - 91. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, May 31, 2006) 

VINS DE VIENNE CÔTE RÔTIE LES ESSARTAILLES 2004
AC
( Les vins de Vienne, Négoc.)
  
33829   (XD)            750 mL    $73.40   

TASTING NOTE: Bright, with slightly crisp acidity. Yet carries the red cherry and currant fruit elegantly, with hints of mineral, licorice and coffee on the finish. Drink now through 2013.
Score - 89. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Nov.15, 2006) 

Domaines Perrin Gigondas Vieilles Vignes 2005
AC  
14985    (XD)            750 mL    $59.50   

TASTING NOTE: The 2005 Perrin et Fils Gigondas Vieilles Vignes has a dense ruby/purple-tinged color, relatively high acidity, and firm tannins in a backward style that suggests considerable patience will be required. Score - (88-91). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) 

The [Fischer] estate is well-known for its Ockfener Bockstein wines …Today, … Karin Fischer, manages the entire estate, following the death of her husband Hans-Henning in 1999. Saar wines are reknowned for their steely character, their refreshing and sizzling fruit acidity; super-light in alcohol, but great heavy-weights in mineral extracts, proving to be excellent companions to today´s fine cuisine. The Saar Valley is all too often hit by frost, damaging the young buds or onsetting fruit, but when weather conditions permit, the microclimate can lead to the production of truly great textbook Riesling wines; wines with excellent maturing potential, if given a chance to mature in the bottle. If weather also permits, and the wild boar can be kept out of the vineyard, Beerenauslese and ice wines are produced in small quantities; wines with sheer immortal potential' (www.wallywine.com)

SCHLOSS JOHANNISBERG RIESLING SPÄTLESE TROCKEN 2005
QmP, Grunlack, Estate Btld.  
33449    (M)            750 mL    $48.60   

TASTING NOTE: With hint of botrytis, citrus, mango, pineapple, medium bodied, juicy, great lasting finish. Score - 90. (Zoltan Szabo, www.jancisrobinson.com, May 24, 2007)

Azelia Barolo Bricco Fiasco 1999
DOCG  
51300    (XD)            750 mL    $80.35   

TASTING NOTE: Medium ruby. The Bricco Fiasco displays an open, perfumed nose followed by dark red fruit, mineral and tobacco nuances on a medium to full-bodied frame of classic structure and length. It is somewhat less generous on the palate than the San Rocco, and its more advanced aromas and flavors suggest it is also closer to maturity, although it should drink well to age 20. Drink after 2007. Score - 92. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, May 2006)

Gaiun Martinenga Barbaresco 1998
DOCG  
(Tenute Cisa Asinari dei Marchesi di Grésy)

46052    (XD)            750 mL    $117   
46128    (XD)            1500 mL    $233.05   

TASTING NOTE: … This year it was the Barbaresco Gaiun '98 we liked best. The vibrant garnet heralds balsamic and liquorice aromas that have yet to develop fully but the full-bodied, fruit-rich palate, underpinned by robust tannins, holds up admirably to linger in the finish. Score - (out of 3). (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines, 2002) 

Azelia Barolo Riserva Voghera Brea 2001
DOCG  
51284    (XD)            750 mL    $102.15   

TASTING NOTE: The estate’s 2001 Barolo Riserva Voghera-Brea is surprisingly open for a Serralunga Barolo in this vintage. Made in a sweet, ethereal style, this medium-bodied wine presents a lovely purity and sweetness in its stewed prunes, plums, leather, scorched earth and coffee beans. Judging by the lack of intensity in color as well as its relatively advanced aromas and flavors, this is not likely to be an extremely long-lived wine, but it is delicious today. The flavor profile is almost that of a more traditionally-made Barolo. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016. Score - 91. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007)

Clerico Barolo Per Cristina 2001
DOCG  
51276    (XD)            750 mL    $152.70   

TASTING NOTE: Clerico waited an additional year to release his 2001 Barolo Percristina and that proved to be a wise choice, as the wine has clearly benefitted from the extra time in bottle. This sweet and powerful yet luxurious Barolo is loaded with ripe dark fruit, spices and chocolate that flow onto the palate with stunning length, delineation and balance. Made in an intense, full-bodied style, it still needs a few years before it fully hits its stride. Percristina is made from a south-facing plot in the Mosconi vineyard in Monforte. Anticipated maturity:
2011-2019. Score - 94. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007) 

Manzone Barolo Le Gramolere Riserva 2001
DOCG  
51326    (XD)            750 mL    $96.20   

TASTING NOTE: The 2001 Barolo Riserva Le Gramolere reveals the superior pedigree of its vintage in a gorgeous portrait of ethereal sweet dark fruit, cocoa, herbs, licorice and toasted oak. It is a richly-textured yet nuanced Barolo with notable complexity, polish and finesse, particularly for Monforte. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2021. Score - 92. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007) 

Renato Corino Barolo Arborina 2003
DOCG  
51250    (XD)            750 mL    $65.45   

TASTING NOTE: Fresh aromas of strawberry and flowers follow through to a full-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a medium finish. Lacks a little midpalate. Clean and focused. Best after 2009. Score - 89. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2007) 

SILVIO GRASSO BRICCO LUCIANI BAROLO 1998
DOCG  
21394    (XD)            750 mL    $77.35   

TASTING NOTE: Earthy and chewy, with cedary, spice box, and black cherry scents and flavors, the full-bodied, moderately tannic 1998 Barolo Bricco Luciani displays the vintage's notable fragrance, outstanding purity, and beautiful symmetry among its component parts. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2015. Score - (90-92). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2001) 

CARPINETO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 1995
DOCG  
683490    (XD)            750 mL    $51.60   

TASTING NOTE: Ruby-violet. Pronounced vanilla, cherry and raspberry aromas, with a floral overtone; quite fine if not quite traditional. Medium-full body. Palate-coating, dense fruit flavors from entry to finish. Sweet cherry, licorice and vanillin oak predominate. Very fresh and vital on the finish, with ripe tannins and lowish acidity giving the wine a velvety texture rare for Chianti Classico. The oak does not overwhelm the strong fruit. A modern style of wine, and very well done. Score - *** (out of 3). (Joel Butler MW, International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 1998)

CARPINETO VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 1990
DOCG  
47159    (XD)            750 mL    $108.10   

TASTING NOTE: Still dark in color, albeit with some bricking evident, and still a bit tannic on the finish. Still, this is very good, combining earth and tobacco with plums and cherries. Big in the mouth, with a velvety feel, but also a touch of warmth from alcohol. Drink now or hold. Score - 89. Wine Enthusiast, Aug. 2006)

Michele Satta Cavaliere 2001
IGT Toscana  
709972    (D)            750 mL    $43.65   

TASTING NOTE: The 2001 Cavaliere (100% Sangiovese) is another terrific effort from Satta. Made from the estate’s best fruit it sees 20 day's maceration prior to being aged in barrique for 12 months. It presents the darker, brooding side of Sangiovese in its notes of scorched earth, tar, backward dark cherry fruit and well-integrated oak. Powerful and authoritative on the palate, the amply structured Cavaliere should offer rewarding drinking to age 20. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2021. Score - 92. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) 

Alvaro PaLAcios L'Ermita 2004
DOCa Priorat  
729913    (XD)            750 mL    $748.60   

TASTING NOTE: 2004 was a superb vintage in Priorat and the three entries from Alvaro Palacios are stunning. The 2004 L’Ermita is harvested from a 5 acre parcel of 70-year-old head-pruned vines of which 85% is Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Carignan aged in 100% new French oak. The color is purple/black and the super-expressive nose offers toast, minerals, kirsch, and blackberry. The wine is full-bodied and seamless with complex flavors and the tannin totally concealed. The finish is very long and pure in this powerful yet elegant offering. It should drink splendidly for 15-20 years. Score - 98. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007)

This wine won a Silver Medal at the Sélections Mondiales des Vins 2007 in Quebec in February 2007. It also won a Bronze Medal at the 2005 Decanter World Wine Awards.

Domaine Boignères [is] thought by many to represent the peak of Armagnac quality … The captivating and heady aromas of the Armagnac … with its suggestions of walnuts, dried fruits, and honey, and insistent reminder of sun on ripe figs … is, near enough, a distillation of the region itself. (Gerald Asher, The Pleasures of Wine, 2002)

This extremely rare Cognac was distilled in 1850 and held in French oak barrels for 50 years before being transferred into 25 litre glass demijohns in 1900. This luxurious Cognac is a veritable time machine that has travelled through a remarkable three centuries: distilled in the wake of Europe's 1848 revolutions; transferred to demijohn at the dawn of the 20th century; and, lastly, bottled in individually numbered, hand-blown glass bottles in the 21st century! From its deep amber hue to its sublime fruit and vanilla flavours, this profoundly smooth and elegant offering is a once-in-a-lifetime gift for the collector of precious Cognacs.

30 years old. Aged in small oak casks for more than one generation before being transferred to individually blown glass bottles. This very matured cognac offers all the characteristics of the old and respectable Grande Champagne with its perfume reminiscent of vine flowers, lime blossom, rancio and vanilla. (www.calvados-granville.com)

Truly a connoisseur's Cognac, the exclusively Grand Cru Brut de Fût is aged half a century in small oak casks, then manually transferred directly to individually-blown bottles at its natural alcohol strength … Extremely powerful, it is the true expression of a great Cognac, [it] embodies the spirit of Grande Champagne, and is the pride of Maison Brillet. Each bottle is numbered. (www.ahardyusa.com)

Charles de Granville 25 ans d’âge : Elegant honey color with superb mahogany reflects. Superb nose, letting us imagine aromas of house apples compote, where get involved vanilla sticks and fragments of plums from Agen. The unit is impressive of elegance and sharpness. In mouth, the attack is ample and melted, revealing aromas of tatin tart, cinnamon and liquorice. Finale is magnificent, mixing apricots and dry figs flavors. (www.calvados-granville.com)

Amber colour with golden highlights. Lovely nose of roasted caramelized apples, blended with touches of vanilla and orange peel. Round and delicate in the mouth, with caramelized flavours at first, then impressions of candied fruits and soft spices that lead to a finish of liquorice and roasted coffee notes. (www.calvados-granville.com) It is aged for 30 years in French oak casks prior to bottling.

In the nine years since Tanzer reviewed this wine, the firm structure will have softened, leading to a softer, slightly more oxidative style.

TASTING NOTE: Aromatic, fresh nose combines apple, pear, mint and ginger. Rich but youthfully bound-up today; shows strong extract, excellent freshness and a firm stony foundation. On the dry side. Finishes firm, spicy and long. Needs patience. Score - 89 (+?). (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Nov./Dec. 1999)