Cool Picks for the Summer <$15

SPARKLING

87/100 Freixenet Brut de Noirs Cava N/V
Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penedès, Cataluna, Spain
Candied cherry peach aromas with creamy, raspberry floral characters. Round, soft mousse, easy drinking very appealing style. Quite dry but balanced with creamy, raspberry, citrus, nutty flavours. Perfect for assorted tapas or even Peking duck or pork dishes. Good value.
Tasted: 2004-02-06 by AG
Prices: BC $13.95 (750 ml) General Listing; NF $11.95 (750 ml); NS $13.99 (750 ml); ON $10.95 (750 ml); QC $12.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 352369;   UPC: 088601002005
Producer: FreixenetDistributor: Corby Distilleries Limited; Freixenet Canada

87/100 Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut Cava N/V
Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penedès, Cataluna, Spain
Fresh floral nutty apple aromas with citrus notes. Similar citrus nutty toasty mineral flavours with some creaminess. A typically dry clean fresh Spanish cava. Aged six months in vats and 3 years in bottle.
Tasted: 2004-03-02 by AG
Prices: AB $12.75 (750 ml); BC $13.95 (750 ml) General Listing; MB $11.45 (750 ml); NB $11.95 (750 ml); NF $12.95 (750 ml); NS $14.45 (750 ml); ON $12.45 (750 ml); PEI $13.95 (750 ml); QC $12.95 (750 ml); SK $13.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 088591;   UPC: 088601003002
Producer: Freixenet
Distributor: Corby Distilleries Limited; Freixenet Canada

86/100 Freixenet Carta Nevada Extra Dry N/V
Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penedès, Cataluna, Spain
Look for a creamy mineral, green apple citrus-scented sparkler with a nutty edge. The taste profile is similar with fresh green apple, mineral nutty flavours. It's a touch foamy with a baked apple/pear finish but otherwise this is a solid, sippable sparkler that is just a touch sweeter and lighter than the Cordon Negro. Fun party wine.
Tasted: 2004-03-02 by AG
Prices: AB $12.75 (750 ml); BC $12.95 (750 ml) General Listing; MB $10.45 (750 ml); NS $13.48 (750 ml); PEI $12.95 (750 ml); QC $11.95 (750 ml); SK $11.98 (750 ml)
CSPC: 068494;   UPC: 33293005018
Producer: Freixenet
Distributor: Corby Distilleries Limited; Freixenet Canada
 
85/100 Banrock Station Sparkling Chardonnay N/V
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Pleasant nose with floral peach, baked apple and pear nose. The flavours are fresh ripe wiht orange, green apple skin and pear fruit but with a creamy smooth finish and one that's drier than you might expect. Clean, fun, simple sparkler for lunch or add some crème de cassis to make a kir royale.
Tasted: 2004-04-03 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 534974;   UPC: 9311043029967
Producer: Banrock Station Wines
Distributor: Medallion Wine Marketing

85/100 Veuve du Vernay Brut Blanc de Blancs N/V
France
A unique blend of chardonnay, chenin blanc, folle blanche and ugni blanc that for whatever reason hits the mark. Very floral, perfumy quince nose with pear, mineral, almond flavours with a clean, crisp finish streaked with citrus. It works as a fine stand-alone aperitif with salty, spicy, or even smoked foods or mix with orange juice at breakfast or a dash of crème de cassis...and party on. Also available in 1.5 litre format.
Tasted: 2004-03-02 by AG
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) General; ON $9.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 209023;   UPC: 3245592970011
Producer: Veuve du Vernay
Distributor: David Herman & Son Ltd.

88/100 Wynns Coonawarra Estate Riesling 2003
Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia
Good mineral, citrus rind, green apple and mango aromas with some floral, honey notes. Dry, fresh, style with mineral, spicy green apple, lime flavours and a smoky slate, grapefruit rind finish. Very elgant and delicate, good value.
Tasted: 2004-06-12 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $14.29 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $14.74 (750 ml); NB $18.00 (750 ml); ON $14.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 528216;   UPC: 012354052109
Producer: Wynns Coonawarra Estate
Distributor: Southcorp Wines Canada

87/100 Casillero del Diablo Chardonnay 2003
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, Chile
Is this the most affordable quality chardonnay in the market? We think so. Look for melon, pear, apple aromas with a touch of honey and lees. The entry is fresh and round with good acidity. On the palate you will find plenty of green apple, citrus, honey, baked pear flavours with a touch of vanilla, butter and pineapple on the finish. Great fruit and balance and a great price. Drink all summer with any seafood.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG
Prices: AB $11.50 (750 ml); BC $11.95 (750 ml) General; MB $10.95 (750 ml); NF $11.57 (750 ml); NS $12.95 (750 ml); SK $13.10 (750 ml)
CSPC: 270355;   UPC: 7804320256900
Producer: Vina Concha y Toro S.A.
Distributor: Select Wine Merchants

87/100 Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, Chile
The Casillero sauvignon comes off several cool sites and is fermented and aged on its lees in stainless steel tanks only from four to six months. Look for a bright citrus scented nose with hints of gooseberry and pineapple. Fresh, clean, elegant palate with grapefruit, mineral, bell pepper gooseberry flavours. Crisp, round finish, a bargain and very consistent.
Tasted: 2004-05-23 by AG
Prices: AB $11.50 (750 ml); BC $12.45 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $10.95 (750 ml); NB $12.42 (750 ml)
CSPC: 578641;   UPC: 78044320301174
Producer: Vina Concha y Toro S.A.
Distributor: Select Wine Merchants

87/100 Cono Sur Viognier 2002
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, Chile
The Cono Sur viognier continues to impress for the price. Spicy, mineral, floral, citrus blossom and honey mark its open aromatic nose. Fresh, crisp and round on entry with dry honey, mineral, and citrus rind and baked pear flavours with a strong mineral, citrus, green apple undercurrent. Plenty of intensity for your money. This is a steal.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG
Prices: BC $10.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 566836;   UPC: 780432050407
Producer: Vina Cono Sur
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

87/100 Mateus Signature Douro White 2002
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, Portugal
Who'd thunk it - white Douro with nutty, citrus rind, fresh Granny Smith aromas. Round, soft, dry and elegant with mineral, nutty, juicy apple flavours with a honey and buttery finish similar to viognier. Good seafood wine that possess both finesse and value for the adventurous.
Tasted: 2004-06-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.99 (750 ml); MB $8.45 (750 ml); NF $10.52 (750 ml); ON $7.95 (750 ml); SK $12.45 (750 ml)
CSPC: 308635;   UPC: 5601012150452
Producer: Sogrape Vinhos de Portugal, SA
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

87/100 Selbach Riesling Bereich Bernkastel 2003
Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany
Wow! How good is this simple everyday riesling. It has all the expected green apple, mineral, slate and citrus flavours ripened to perfection in 2003. Round fresh, elegant and finished with clover honey undertones that mark the 2003 crop. Ridiculous good and ridiculously affordable. Try with simply prepared fish and a fresh fruit salsa.
Tasted: 2004-06-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.45 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 517581;   UPC: 717215000229
Producer: J & H Selbach
Distributor: Reichel-Waldorf Wine Imports Inc.

87/100 Hogue Chardonnay 2002
Columbia Valley, Washington, United States
One, check out the price. Two, taste the bright citrus fruit flavours and mineral highlights with just a dusting of lees or bread dough flavours to make it interesting. Three, check out the price. Four, buy this one all summer.
Tasted: 2004-02-25 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.38 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 283481;   UPC: 087754000401
Producer: The Hogue Cellars
Distributor: Atlas Wine Merchants

87/100 Serame Viognier 2002
Languedoc, South of France, France
Super floral, honey, mineral, citrus flower aromas with some spicy meaty streaks. Dry, round and slightly oily textures but nicely balanced and fresh. Wet mineral, spicy, honey, perfumed flavours with a bit of quince. Not the ripe fruity orange style but good intensity and we love the price. Great value.
Tasted: 2004-03-08 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $11.28 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 624395;   UPC: 3258691182629
Producer: Chateau de Serame
Distributor: Philippe Dandurand Wines Ltd

86/100 Bellingham Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Western Cape, South Africa
The Bellingham sauvignon is made with grapes grown at high altitude, south facing vineyards, cool meso-climates in the Durbanville and Darling areas of the Western Cape. This is a zippy little white with tropical/pineapple fruit aromas and flavours spiced with jalapeno and tangy citrus streaks. Clean and fresh with just a hint of bitterness in the finish. Good value.
Tasted: 2004-02-25 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.36 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 596692;   UPC: 6001506003131
Producer: Bellingham - DGB
Distributor: Select Wine Merchants

86/100 Errazuriz Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, Chile
Open mineral, passion fruit, green apple/melon nose --, very New Zealand-like. Dry, tight, lean palate with fresh acidity yet still elegant. Lemon, green apple, green kiwi flavours with a strong mineral, light bell pepper finish. Mussels and clams are the call here.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.37 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 286385;   UPC: 089046777329
Producer: Vina Errazuriz
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

86/100 Gazela Vinho Verde N/V
Vinhos Verde, Northern Portugal, Portugal
A new package and a super fresh light demeanour make the Gazela Vinho Verde the ultimate summer sipper. Look for apple, green melon, mineral, nutty aromas. Quite spritzy with very zesty acidity and fresh nutty, mineral, green apple skin flavours. Delicate and lively and a great picnic or afternoon wine for white fish. An excellent example of Vinho Verde and it's great value too. All it needs now is a screwcap.
Tasted: 2004-06-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $8.99 (750 ml); NF $5.95 (750 ml); ON $7.90 (750 ml)
CSPC: 141432;   UPC: 5601012045505
Producer: Sogrape Vinhos de Portugal, SA
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs
 
86/100 Hardys Nottage Hill Chardonnay 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Fresh peach, honey, floral aromas with a mineral, citrus streak. Round, smooth and soft with a touch of sweetness. Fat, warm mineral, apple, citrus honey flavours that finis a touch short. A simple wine that fits the pocket book for summer drinking. Note the 1 litre size.
Tasted: 2004-06-04 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.99 (1000 ml) General
CSPC: 038190;   UPC: 9311043079870
Producer: Thomas Hardy & Sons
Distributor: Churchill Cellars; Medallion Wine Marketing

86/100 Koonunga Hill Chardonnay 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Leesy, floral, green apple aromas with some honey butter. Dry, slightly oily texture with buttery, nutty lees, mineral and citrus peel flavours. Quite warm (alcoholic) in the finish and lacking the fresh zippy tones of previous editions.
Tasted: 2004-06-04 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $13.50 (750 ml) Fine Wine Boutiques; BC $14.99 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $13.49 (750 ml); NB $14.99 (750 ml); NF $14.16 (750 ml); NS $13.99 (750 ml); ON $12.95 (750 ml); QC $15.45 (750 ml); SK $15.18 (750 ml)
CSPC: 321943;   UPC: 012354071339
Producer: Penfolds
Distributor: Southcorp Wines Canada

86/100 Lindemans Bin 75 Riesling 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Peachy floral petrol/mineral nose with streaks of green apple skin mark the nose. On the palate the flavours are a mix of lime, baked green apple, peach and mineral with medium weight and length. The finish is slightly sweet and rounder but fresh and crisp making this an appealing wine for sipping on the patio. Very good value.
Tasted: 2004-06-08 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 638973;   UPC: 012354087804
Producer: Lindemans Wines
Distributor: Southcorp Wines Canada

86/100 McWilliam's Hanwood Chardonnay 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
The Hanwood chardonnay has been re-styled in recent years; the wine making is less about oak and vanilla and more about upfront fruit. Look for the peachy melon fruit nose so typical of Oz shiraz but with a crispness and brightness underneath that makes you want to have another glass. Creamy stone fruit flavours and just a wisp of pineapple mark the crisp finish.
Tasted: 2004-05-18 by AG
Prices: AB $14.99 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml) General Listing; MB $12.99 (750 ml); NS $14.99 (750 ml); ON $11.95 (750 ml) General Listing; SK $14.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 557934;   UPC: 085000010075
Producer: McWilliam's Wines
Distributor: E. & J. Gallo Winery Canada, Ltd.

86/100 Moillard Viognier Huges le Juste 2001
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, South of France, France
Typical spicy, floral, meaty nose with honey, peach aromas and a touch of toast. Soft, round, slightly oily texture with toasted butter and citrus/honey/peach flavours. A bit warm on the finish but simple, fruity and likeable. Good value for an introductory European viognier.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $11.75 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 639757;   UPC: 3180421087198
Producer: Moillard
Distributor: Vinterra Wine Merchants

86/100 Wolf Blass Riesling 2003
South Australia, Australia
Lime, smoky petrol, mineral, green peach aromas. Fresh, round, elegant style with ripe apple, mineral, smoky slate and green apricot flavours. Fairly dry with nice acidity and elegance. An in between style not super ripe and delicate but not clumsy and heavy; should be fine with a variety of foods.
Tasted: 2004-06-25 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $14.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 128660;   UPC: 023859000458
Producer: Wolf Blass Pty Ltd
Distributor: Beringer Blass Wines Estates; Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

86/100 Yellow Tail Chardonnay 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Floral, warm butter, peach, melon aromas with some apple notes. Round, soft, slightly sweet entry with baked spiced apple, melon, citrus flavours. Good balance and fresh acidity and good value.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 627802;   UPC: 839743000028
Producer: Casella Estate Wines
Distributor: Vinterra Wine Merchants

85/100 Bumble Bee Stinger White Reserve 2002
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
Bumble Bee is a new brand from B.C. put together by a small group of wine lovers. The VQA approved wine has a fresh fig, grassy bell pepper nose with hints of melon and green apple aromas. Round and elegant with fresh acidity and a touch of sweetness. Ripe apple, asparagus, green melon and peach flavours with a touch of mineral, citrus peel and bell pepper on the finish.
Tasted: 2004-06-25 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $14.99 (750 ml)
UPC: 812289000295
Producer: Bumble Bee Wines
Distributor: Libations Etc

85/100 Josef Drathan Bereich Bernkastel Riesling QBA 2002
Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany
Expect a clean slate, white floral nose with mineral and baked apple notes. Soft and delicate with quite a sweet palate but with reasonable acidity. More juicy baked apple, smoky, mineral flavours and a touch of peach. Very delicate and clean. Perfect for Thai food or a great picnic summer wine. Good value wine for consumers.
Tasted: 2004-05-21 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 220699;   UPC: 4006921001146
Producer: Josef Drathen
Distributor: Next Beverage

85/100 Rosemount Jigsaw Verdelho Chardonnay Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Australia
Bright white peach and floral notes mix with grassy, melon aromas. Fruity, fresh, slightly sweet style with melon, buttery citrus flavours. Good fruit in an easy-drinking, fun commercial summer sipper. We like the price too. A good example of what's possible at the entry level with modern winemaking.
Tasted: 2004-05-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.49 (750 ml) Specialty Listing
CSPC: 638007;   UPC: 012894968113
Producer: Rosemount Estate Wines Ltd.
Distributor: Southcorp Wines Canada

85/100 The Little Penguin Chardonnay 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
The little Penguin Chardonnay is probably the best varietal of the four grape set. Look for a buttery, peach, cantaloupe nose mix with honey. Soft, round, somewhat sweet style and lighter bodied. Honey, buttery, melon flavours. Simple, straight-ahead commercial chardonnay at an affordable price.
Tasted: 2004-06-26 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $10.99 (750 ml); BC $12.99 (750 ml); MB $10.99 (750 ml); NF $12.98 (750 ml); ON $10.95 (750 ml); SK $12.49 (750 ml)
CSPC: 135236;   UPC: 012354010031
Producer: The Little Penguin Wines
Distributor: Southcorp Wines Canada

85/100 Willowglen Semillon Chardonnay 2003
Australia
Nutty, fig, grassy, citrus aromas. Soft, round, slightly sweet style with canned citrus, grassy, apple flavours. Simple, fresh, clean, commercial style.
Tasted: 2004-06-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $11.95 (750 ml) Speculative - Reichel-Waldorf
CSPC: 110544;   UPC: 9300752370026
Producer: Willowglen
Distributor: Reichel-Waldorf Wine Imports Inc.

ROSE

86/100 Mateus Rose N/V
Douro - Bairrada, Portugal
Attractive light raspberry red colour. Mineral, earthy, cherry, slightly floral nose. Fairly dry but fresh and elegant with some spritz. Light cherry, citrus, earthy, mineral apple flavours and a slightly sweet finish. Very sound, affordable summer rose.
Tasted: 2004-06-27 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $9.49 (750 ml); MB $8.45 (750 ml); NB $9.45 (750 ml); NF $9.54 (750 ml); NS $10.45 (750 ml); ON $7.45 (750 ml); PE $10.50 (750 ml); QC $9.55 (750 ml); SK $10.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 000166;   UPC: 5601012011500
Producer: Sogrape Vinhos de Portugal, SA
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

86/100 Silence Côtes du Lubéron Rose 2003
Côtes du Lubéron, Provence, South of France, France
Fresh delicate raspberry, blackberry, mineral aromas with some pink grapefruit. Soft, dry on the palate with a round with fresh strawberry, peach and mineral flavours and some gamy notes. A fun, solid rosé for the summer that does not finish sweet. Have a cold-chicken picnic.
Tasted: 2004-03-23 by AG
Prices: BC $12.95 (750 ml) Speculative - Reichel-Waldorf
CSPC: 105171;   UPC: 3256811112266
Producer: Cellier de Marrenon
Distributor: Reichel-Waldorf Wine Imports Inc.

85/100 Banrock Station White Shiraz 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Give up those tired, cloying white zinfandels for something light and fun but still with a little zip. The colour is pale raspberry, the nose spicy fruity cherry-like with hints of almond and peach. Look for a light, sweet-ish, fresh style with cherry, mineral, green apple flavours. A fun fruity summer picnic wine for the deck or the beach.
Tasted: 2004-04-02 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.99 (750 ml) General
CSPC: 711834;   UPC: 081434015860
Producer: Banrock Station Wines
Distributor: Medallion Wine Marketing

85/100 Corbett Canyon White Zinfandel 2003
California, United States
Very pale pink colour. Cherry, raspberry aromas with some leafy, mineral, pepper notes. Soft, round, fresh and sweet. There is good acidity with raspberry, sour cherry, mineral, spicy flavours. A simple, fresh, easy summer sipper.
Tasted: 2004-06-27 by AG
Prices: AB $7.45 (750 ml); BC $7.49 (750 ml) Specialty; ON $7.45 (750 ml)
CSPC: 352005;   UPC: 041985313174
Producer: Corbett Canyon Vineyards
Distributor: Mark Anthony Wine Merchants

REDS
 
88/100 McWilliam's Hanwood Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Love the deep red/black colour. This may be the best varietal in the Hanwood range. It's totally ripe cabernet with plenty of mocha, black fruit flavours and a streak of cedar. In the mouth it's rich and substantial and definitely worth buying for the price. Well done. The fruit sourcing is 31% Riverina; 26% Coonawarra; 20% Limestone Coast; 14% Hilltops and 9% Yarra Valley.
Tasted: 2004-05-18 by AG
Prices: AB $14.99 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml) General Listing; MB $12.99 (750 ml); NS $11.99 (750 ml); ON $12.45 (750 ml) General Listing; SK $14.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 214577;   UPC: 085000011782
Producer: McWilliam's Wines
Distributor: E. & J. Gallo Winery Canada, Ltd.

87/100 Berberana Dragon Tempranillo 2001
Castilla-Leon, Spain
This one of the cleaner, fruitier Dragon's I've tasted in some time. Juicy black fruit flavours soft tannins and an easy sipping style will make this a hit with consumers. Certainly, a wine to add to the ultimate barbecue red list. Well done. Serve all summer.
Tasted: 2004-02-17 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.60 (750 ml)
CSPC: 550723;   UPC: 8410396780219
Producer: Bodegas Berberana
Distributor: Philippe Dandurand Wines Ltd

87/100 Casillero del Diablo Syrah 2003
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, Chile
The '03 syrah has a smoky, vanilla, meaty nose with black plum jam aromas and a touch of roasted pepper. The entry is smooth and round with underlying grainy tannins. Ripe plum, blackberry fruit dominates the palate with chocolate, gamey, spicy, licorice flavours. Big and full and totally undervalued. A fine effort at an excellent price.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $12.25 (750 ml); BC $12.95 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $10.95 (750 ml); NF $12.29 (750 ml); SK $13.10 (750 ml)
CSPC: 568055;   UPC: 7804320510170
Producer: Vina Concha y Toro S.A.
Distributor: Select Wine Merchants

87/100 Castaño Monastrell 2003
Yecla, Valencia and Murcia, Spain
The latest monastrell from Castaño continues to deliver for the price. Nice dark cherry colour. Open black cherry, gamey, meaty, liquorice, smoky, peppery nose. Soft, dry and round with fresh black cherry, plum, liquorice, meaty spice flavours. Good acidity, very fresh style but rich and fruity with quite a dry finish and a touch of tannins. Will be great with braised ribs or duck. Not released yet.
Tasted: 2004-03-30 by ST
Prices: BC $12.95 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 731620;   UPC: 8422443001208
Producer: Bodegas Castaño
Distributor: Next Beverage

87/100 Deakin Estate Shiraz 2002
Victoria, Australia
Look for a peppery, over ripe blackberry, minty, roasted pepper nose. Expect a soft, round, easy-drinking red with juicy black berry jam, spicy, licorice, meaty flavours. The finish is dry but there is fine fruit intensity. Grilled spiced chicken or beef ribs are the ticket here. Enjoy.
Tasted: 2004-06-12 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $12.25 (750 ml); BC $13.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 588400;   UPC: 636662059126
Producer: Deakin Estate
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

87/100 LoTengo Malbec 2003
Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
Spicy, plum jam, smoky, bacon and savoury aromas. The flavours are similar with more coffee, cedar, vanilla and bacon notes all over top of black cherry. Balanced and ready to go this will be a barbecue best bet for the summer. We don't normally rate labels but the nifty holograph is a plus. Good value here.
Tasted: 2004-04-18 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 080986;   UPC: 7792319676269
Producer: Bodega Norton
Distributor: Grady Wine Marketing

87/100 McWilliam's Hanwood Shiraz 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
A cooler year in 2002 was a big help to the wines grown in the Riverina. The cooler growing season has lifted the fruit giving the nose a spicy, black cherry hint with similar black cherry and cedar flavours on the palate. It's fresh and lively (acidic) in the finish. In Oz it's sold under screwcap and it should be here too.
Tasted: 2004-05-18 by AG
Prices: AB $14.99 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml) General Listing; MB $12.99 (750 ml); NS $14.99 (750 ml); ON $13.95 (750 ml) General Listing; SK $14.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 033480;   UPC: 085000010068
Producer: McWilliam's Wines
Distributor: E. & J. Gallo Winery Canada, Ltd.

87/100 Pascual Toso Malbec 2002
Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina
Very peppery, leather, prune, ash and licorice root nose. Soft, round, supple style with spicy, peppery, black cherry and smoky leather flavours. A touch dry on the finish but a fine match for barbecued meat.
Tasted: 2004-06-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $11.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 129163;   UPC: 718742000058
Producer: Pascual Toso
Distributor: WineBrenWines Inc.

87/100 VF Lasira 2002
Costières de Nîmes, Languedoc, South of France, France
The label says 75 per cent syrah, 25 per cent grenache and 0 per cent cork referring to its new black screwcap closure and this baby is a winner. The nose has a clean intense spicy, white pepper, black raspberry jam aroma with gamy/licorice notes. The entry is soft, dry and round with fresh black raspberry, licorice, plum jam, peppery pudding flavours. Fresh, dry Euro-style but great flavour and fine acidity. Great flank steak or lamb sausage match. Good value here and a real example of how a screwcap can lift the level of an ordinary red.
Tasted: 2004-06-05 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 126029;   UPC: 631470000759
Producer: Perrin et Fils
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

87/100 Valdivieso Merlot 2002
Region del Valle Central, Chile
Pronounced sappy cassis, leafy cherry fruit nose with good spice and pepper. The texture is super soft and round; the flavours a fine mix of youthful spicy black cherry fruit. with some The soft minty, tobacco and orange rind finish is the perfect ending to an inexpensive varietal that should fly off the shelves all year.
Tasted: 2004-03-01 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.49 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 412882;   UPC: 7802180088884
Producer: Viña Valdivieso
Distributor: Marfful Consultants Limited

86/100 Abrazo Tinto Garnacha Cariñena 2002
Cariñena, Aragon, Spain
Savoury, earthy, peppery, raspberry cherry aromas with a hint of rubber. Silky smooth and round on entry with ripe cherry jam, peppery, spicy savoury flavours. The finish is clean and fresh with some acidity and dryness to disperse. Barbecue anything would do the trick here.
Tasted: 2004-06-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $14.99 (750 ml) Estimated Canadian Retail
UPC: 850450000002
Producer: Axial Globalizacion De Vinos S.I
Distributor: WineBrenWines Inc.

86/100 Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Region del Valle Central, Chile
There's a touch of merlot in the blend but this remains quite chunky full bodied cabernet that mixes coffee, mint, savoury and leafy cassis aromas. On the palate the savoury, cedar, cassis fruit finishes dry and slightly tannic. Will need some piquant barbecued ribs to tame the tannins and smooth out the edges or another six months in bottle.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $11.95 (750 ml); BC $12.95 (750 ml) General; MB $10.95 (750 ml); NB $12.40 (750 ml); NF $11.64 (750 ml); NS $12.95 (750 ml); ON $10.90 (750 ml); PE $14.90 (750 ml); QC $12.05 (750 ml); SK $13.10 (750 ml)
CSPC: 278416;   UPC: 7804320303178
Producer: Vina Concha y Toro S.A.
Distributor: Select Wine Merchants

86/100 Deakin Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Victoria, Australia
Attractive earthy, licorice, compost, coriander, cassis nose signals cool fruit. Soft, round, slightly sweet entry with coffee, earthy, spicy, cassis flavours. A bit warm and dry on the finish but with fine intensity and decent structure.
Tasted: 2004-06-08 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $12.25 (750 ml); BC $13.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 588400;   UPC: 636662059126
Producer: Deakin Estate
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

86/100 Finca Flichman Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Mendoza, Argentina
Peppery, smoky, gamey, blackberry nose. Soft, round, rich and smooth. A bit chunky with chocolate, cherry, meaty, smoky tobacco flavours. Definitely Argentina, well balanced and flavourful. Consistently fine value.
Tasted: 2004-06-26 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 713338;   UPC: 7790470006512
Producer: Finca Flichman
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

86/100 Hardys Nottage Hill Shiraz 2001
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Savoury, spicy aromas streaked with a mix of blackberry and blueberry fruit. Soft, smooth and round on entry with creamy blueberry, cedar-y roasted pepper notes. Simple, sound, fruity and affordable.
Tasted: 2004-05-13 by AG
Prices: BC $13.99 (750 ml) General
CSPC: 33282;   UPC: 9311043050084
Producer: Thomas Hardy & Sons
Distributor: Churchill Cellars; Medallion Wine Marketing
 
86/100 Hardys Nottage Hill Shiraz 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
The '02 has arrived in one-litre format for only a dollar more - it should attract a crowd. Look for a bright fruity nose with blueberry, black cherry, white pepper and savoury notes. Super smooth and round with big floral blackberry jam, white pepper, leather flavours. Intense and warm with that acidic Oz finish. A simple fruity quaffer.
Tasted: 2004-05-13 by AG
Prices: BC $14.99 (1000 ml) General
CSPC: 33282;   UPC: 9311043079542
Producer: Thomas Hardy & Sons
Distributor: Churchill Cellars; Medallion Wine Marketing
 
86/100 Louis Bernard Côtes du Lubéron Rouge 2001
Côtes du Lubéron, Provence, South of France, France
Bright spicy, raspberry kirsch aromas with mineral, pepper, strawberry and licorice highlights. The palate is dry soft and round with more strawberry, mineral, spicy, gamey licorice flavours. A soft, lighter style with a fresh finish. Drink now with any light meat dish or fowl.
Tasted: 2004-04-17 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $11.65 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 032250;   UPC: 604174001193
Producer: Louis Bernard
Distributor: Philippe Dandurand Wines Ltd

86/100 Man Vintners Shiraz 2003
Western Cape, South Africa
Typical smoky, gamey, peppery nose with some blackberry jam notes. Another soft red with dry smoky, savoury licorice/blackberry flavours. Simple and round with a touch of acidity on the finish. Perfect for with barbeque ribs.
Tasted: 2004-05-13 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.99 (750 ml) Estimated Canadian Retail
UPC: 6009669350444
Producer: Man Vintners
Distributor: WineBrenWines Inc.

86/100 Pascual Toso Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina
Spicy, savoury, peppery, cassis and wet earth aromas. Soft, smooth palate with jammy cassis, peppery, earthy peppery flavours. Nice ripe fruit, good acidity and balance. A bit chunky but pretty good intensity. Try with ribs or pizza. Good value.
Tasted: 2004-06-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $11.99 (750 ml) Estimated Canadian Retail
UPC: 718742000010
Producer: Pascual Toso
Distributor: WineBrenWines Inc.

86/100 Spinelli Quartana Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2002
Abruzzo, Italy
The Montepulciano grape is spread about central Italy, but is dominant in Abruzzo. The late ripening dark grape is responsible for Rosso Conero and Rosso Piceno in Marche and more Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. After a few months in large Slavonian oak or 'botti', Quartana is aged in the bottle for at least three months. Look for a gamey, earthy, cherry, almond aromas and a smooth round texture throughout. Fresh plum, cherry fruit and spicy, licorice, peppery flavours mark its lively palate. Roasted meats and tomato-based dishes will help tame the acidity. Terrific value.
Tasted: 2004-04-17 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $7.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 454629;   UPC: 8004129075019
Producer: Cantine Spinelli SRL
Distributor: The Thomas Robert Agency

86/100 Sogrape Vila Regia 2000
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, Portugal
Spicy, peppery, rootsy aromas with some dried cherry and plum. Ripe, round, very dry with moderately fresh acidity. Good intensity with peppery, leather, plum jam and cassis notes. A bit rustic but good value for an all round meat wine.
Tasted: 2004-03-29 by AG
Prices: BC $9.56 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 464388;   UPC: 5601012414509
Producer: Sogrape Vinhos de Portugal, SA
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

86/100 Undurraga Merlot 2003
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, Chile
Attractive saddle leather, gamey, cherry nose streaked with vanilla and peppery. The entry is soft round and supple with smooth textures. Fine smoky vanilla, cherry, minty, chocolate flavours with fresh acidity on the finish. Well balanced red from front to back. Perfect for grilled flank steak or chicken.
Tasted: 2004-04-03 by AG
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 412114;   UPC: 7804315030027
Producer: Vina Undurraga
Distributor: International Cellars Inc.

86/100 Viñas del Vero Merlot 2001
Somontano, Aragon, Spain
Peppery, spicy, tobacco leaf, smoky cedar nose. Dry, round entry with light, cedar-y tannins and a touch of sweetness. Warm cherry, minty, tobacco, mocha flavours with fresh acidity but decent balance. Simple, varietal, ready to drink style that will be best with meat tapas.
Tasted: 2004-04-18 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.49 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 546150;   UPC: 8421293681004
Producer: Viñas del Vero
Distributor: Celebrated Cellars; International Cellars Inc.

85/100 Barbechera Crianza 1998
La Mancha, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
Soft round dark fruit colour and nose. Warm pruny cooked fruit flavours with a gamey earthy cedar undertones and dry chalky tannins. The finish is soft, round and pleasing if a bit warm or alcoholic. Should be fine when served with most any grilled meats.
Tasted: 2004-02-17 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $14.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 102574;   UPC: 8420919102015
Producer: Cacharel-Vinedos
Distributor: Reichel-Waldorf Wine Imports Inc.

85/100 Deakin Estate Merlot 2002
Victoria, Australia
Cherry, spicy, smoky saddle leather nose. Soft, round and smooth with smoky, cherry, cassis leather flavours. Sweet finish with a bit of cedar-y tannins. Soft simple easy-drinking commercial style merlot for the barbecue.
Tasted: 2004-03-01 by ST
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) Specialty; ON $11.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 577395;   UPC: 636662058228
Producer: Deakin Estate
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

85/100 Errazuriz Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2002
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, Chile
Minty, sappy, cassis, peppery, spicy nose. Soft, round and a bit chunky with some tannins. Smoky, peppery, spicy, minty cassis flavours. A bit tannic and dry but has good fruit flavours.
Tasted: 2004-06-26 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $14.40 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 284125;   UPC: 089046777312
Producer: Vina Errazuriz
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver); Philippe Dandurand Wines Ltd

85/100 Hardys VR Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Hardys VR or varietal range is meant to be an easy drinking introductory style wine. Look for a peppery, black berry, spicy coriander nose with a hint of saddle leather. Cedar bark, black cherry, peppery, earth flavours compliment its soft, smooth, round style. A simple, ready-to-drink red for the barbecue or parties.
Tasted: 2004-05-30 by AG
Prices: BC $8.99 (750 ml) General
CSPC: 45302;   UPC: 9311043079689
Producer: Thomas Hardy & Sons
Distributor: Churchill Cellars; Medallion Wine Marketing

85/100 Hogue Cabernet Merlot 2001
Columbia Valley, Washington, United States
Spicy, dill, cherry, minty, tobacco nose with earthy undercurrents. Soft, dry, round entry with smoky tomato, peppery, earthy, cherry flavours and a touch of buttery vanilla. The finish is fresh if a bit herbal. The blend is 51 cabernet sauvignon, 45 merlot and 4 cabernet franc.
Tasted: 2004-04-02 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $14.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 463695;   UPC: 087754003877
Producer: The Hogue Cellars
Distributor: Vincor International

85/100 Jindalee Shiraz 2002
Murray River Valley, Victoria, Australia
Look for a fruity spicy, black pepper, blackberry jam and red licorice nose. Soft, round, smooth textures and the all important touch of residual sugar in the finish. Peppery vanilla, black cherry and licorice flavours precede a sound if acidic finish. Simple fruity, soft, and affordable.
Tasted: 2004-06-12 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $11.95 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 591818;   UPC: 667661000222
Producer: Jindalee Estate
Distributor: Select Wine Merchants

85/100 Little Boomey Shiraz 2002
New South Wales, Australia
Peppery, sappy, black raspberry fruit with earthy barnyard notes. Soft, smooth, easy-sipping style with coffee, earth and black cherry flavours. A bit dry with some light tannins but otherwise sound.
Tasted: 2004-06-12 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 627158;   UPC: 727115005019
Producer: Reynolds Winery
Distributor: Corby Distilleries Limited

85/100 Rosemount Cabernet Merlot 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Earthy, olive, leafy, leather, gamey nose. Sweet, round, smooth entry with cassis, berry, coffee flavorus. Very commercial fruity tutti style with some vegy notes.
Tasted: 2004-05-30 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $16.49 (750 ml); BC $14.49 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $16.49 (750 ml); ON $15.95 (750 ml); QC $16.95 (750 ml); SK $17.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 552000
Producer: Rosemount Estate Wines Ltd.
Distributor: Southcorp Wines Canada

85/100 Undurraga Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, Chile
Spicy, leafy, minty cassis nose with some tobacco notes. Soft, round, smooth but dry palate with light tannins. Earthy, cedar, chocolate cassis flavours with a touch of bitterness and very dry tannins on the finish. Perhaps a bit young right now.
Tasted: 2004-06-26 by AG
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 053413;   UPC: 7804315010005
Producer: Vina Undurraga
Distributor: International Cellars Inc.

85/100 Yellow Tail Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Minty, chocolate, earthy, clove aromas with a touch of black cherry. Smooth, round, forward palate with light tannins and definite sweetness. Lots of coffee, mocha, vanilla and sweet cassis flavours with a dash of pepper. Soft sweet commercial, sipping-style.
Tasted: 2004-06-12 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 056473;   UPC: 9322214007806
Producer: Casella Estate Wines
Distributor: Vinterra Wine Merchants