Top Value Imported Wine < $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.

WHITES

89/100 Koonunga Hill Chardonnay 2002
South Australia, Australia
Koonunga Hill Chardonnay is always sourced from multiple districts with significant contributions from McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills. The difference in '02 was the much cooler and longer growing season that's given an always-solid wine, a fabulous lift. Look for impressive pear/apple fruit with a little bit of oak, a little bit of malolactic, some citrus highlights and an attractive creamy finish. Good value.
Tasted: 2004-05-05 by AG
Prices: AB $13.75 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml) Specialty; ON $12.95 (750 ml); QC $14.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 321943;   UPC: 012354071339
Producer: Penfolds
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 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 Abbey Vale Vat 351 Chardonnay 2003
Western Australia, Australia
Spicy lees, lime rind, apple and honey aromas. Dry, elegant and round with a smooth texture. Melon, honey, butter and baked apple flavours with a fresh lime rind finish. Good for lighter style seafood dishes.
Tasted: 2004-02-21 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.95 (750 ml)
UPC: 9331844000439
Producer: Abbey Vale Wines
Distributor: Vinterra Wine Merchants

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 Canyon Road Sauvignon Blanc 2002
California, United States
Buttery, nutty, grapefruit, green peach and kiwi aromas. Round, soft entry with bitter grapefruit rind, bell pepper and kiwi flavours with some buttery notes. Fresh and lively on the finish. Excellent value
Tasted: 2004-02-16 by AG
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 439026;   UPC: 083417043204
Producer: Canyon Road Cellars
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

86/100 Casa La Luna Verdejo-Viura 2002
Citrus rind, sweaty lees, mineral, marzipan nose with a hint of lemon oil. Very dry, elegant, refreshing style with lemon, marzipan, quince flavours and some fresh floral, green apple nuances. A leaner style but very flavourful. Great for the summer and great value.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $9.90 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 033787;   UPC: 812205008022
Producer: Avelino Vegas S.A.
Distributor: Foremost Wine Domaines Inc.

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 Fetzer Fumé Blanc Echo Ridge 2002
California, United States
Attractive grapefruit, vanilla, kiwi, grassy melon nose. Round and smooth on entry with a touch of sweetness. Fresh grapefruit, green melon, grassy mineral flavours. Well balanced with a dry chalky finish. Good effort.
Tasted: 2004-05-23 by AG
Prices: AB $13.95 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml); ON $13.95 (750 ml); QC $14.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 255448;   UPC: 082896710270
Producer: Fetzer Vineyards
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

86/100 Hardys Nottage Hill Chardonnay 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Inviting honey, floral, peach aromas streaked with citrus butter. Ripe, round, smooth entry with just a hint of oiliness. A touch sweet with good acidity and a fine buttery, vanilla/peach and apple/honey flavours. Good clean, solid Oz chardonnay at an affordable price.
Tasted: 2004-04-02 by AG
Prices: BC $10.99 (750 ml) General; BC $10.99 (1500 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 283457;   UPC: 9311043057144
Producer: Thomas Hardy & Sons
Distributor: Churchill Cellars; Medallion Wine Marketing

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 Rosemount Chardonnay 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Vanilla, butter, honey, spicy lees nose with some melon and peach. Fresh, round, slightly sweet entry with crisp acidity. Lots of citrus rind, honey, buttery melon flavours. Elegant, commercial style.
Tasted: 2004-02-21 by AG
Prices: AB $13.99 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $14.49 (750 ml); NS $16.29 (750 ml); ON $13.95 (750 ml); QC $15.95 (750 ml); SK $16.99 (750 ml)
CSPC: 265132;   UPC: 012894862312
Producer: Rosemount Estate Wines Ltd.
Distributor: Southcorp Wines Canada

86/100 Willowglen Chardonnay 2003
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Light melon, peach, wet slate aromas with a bit of lime rind. Similar flavours with some added peach skin and grapefruit. Fresh, dry and clean with a crisp finish. Good summer seafood and salad wine, very solid for the money.
Tasted: 2004-03-08 by AG
Prices: BC $11.95 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $11.00 (750 ml); ON $13.00 (750 ml) Consignment - Dionysus
CSPC: 536912;   UPC: 679940000144
Producer: De Bortoli Wines Pty Limited
Distributor: Reichel-Waldorf Wine Imports Inc. 

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 Hogue Pinot Grigio 2003
Columbia Valley, Washington, United States
Fresh citrus, pear, bubble gum, mineral aromas. Soft, round, somewhat sweet entry with grapefruit rind, pear and melon flavours with some mineral on the finish. Lots of flavour if a bit sweet in style. Use liberally on the patio all summer.
Tasted: 2004-04-02 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 624486;   UPC: 087754000432
Producer: The Hogue Cellars
Distributor: Vincor International

85/100 Kissing Bridge Chardonnay 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Straight-forward melon, peach, butter, orange rind aromas. Smooth, round, fresh entry with buttery, red apple, citrus, lees flavours and a light spritzy grapefruit rind on the finish. A drier version of Yellowtail; more like Bin 65.
Tasted: 2004-02-21 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $10.49 (750 ml); BC $11.99 (750 ml) Speculative - The Bacchus Group
CSPC: 061770;   UPC: 831039000217
Producer: Cheviot Bridge Wine Company
Distributor: The Bacchus Group Inc.

85/100 Redvale Inheritance Chardonnay Colombard 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Ripe melon, peach, buttered popcorn nose. Soft, round, sweet easy-sipping style that will have wide appeal. Perfect for spicy Asian or solo on the deck. Its buttery, baked peach flavours suggest drinking now. Fair value.
Tasted: 2004-03-11 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.99 (750 ml) Speculative - Philippe Dandurand Wines
CSPC: 037390;   UPC: 9311769066000
Producer: Redvale Wines
Distributor: Philippe Dandurand Wines Ltd

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 Van Loveren Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Robertson, Brede River Valley, South Africa
Grassy, mineral, bell pepper and canned jalapeno nose. Soft, round, smooth palate with some sweetness. Mineral, gooseberry, grapefruit rind, bell pepper flavours. Easy drinking, grassy style. Fun summer sipper.
Tasted: 2004-05-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.99 (750 ml) Estimated Canadian Retail
UPC: 6002269000504
Producer: Van Lovern
Distributor: WineBrenWines Inc.

85/100 Van Loveren Sémillon 2003
Robertson, Brede River Valley, South Africa
This all sémillon wine opens with artichoke, grassy, jalapeno notes mixed with mineral and white pepper aromas. Soft, oily, smooth and sweet on entry with mineral, green melon, jalapeno, grassy flavours and a warm alcoholic finish. Standard and fresh if a bit herbaceous. The good news is its fresh and youthful ... drink all summer.
Tasted: 2004-05-23 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $14.99 (750 ml) Estimated Canadian Retail
UPC: 6002269000351
Producer: Van Lovern
Distributor: WineBrenWines Inc.

ROSE
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.

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 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 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 Terre Mediterranee Negroamaro 2000
Apulia, Italy
Negroamaro is an ancient, indigenous Italian grape variety of Puglia making a comeback of sorts with everyday wine drinkers. The colour is great and the textures soft and inviting. Look for savoury plummy fruit with a fine mix of spice and pepper. The finish is dry, persistent and harmonious. Well done.
Tasted: 2004-03-01 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $12.99 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml) Speculative - The Bacchus Group; MB $12.82 (750 ml)
CSPC: 874495;   UPC: 8002235016070
Producer: Casa Vinacola Zonin S.p.A
Distributor: The Bacchus Group Inc.

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 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 Canyon Road Shiraz 2001
California, United States
You taste the Geyser Peak hand here in what is a delicious well made red. There's a firm line of acidity in an otherwise smooth leathery wine with spicy gamey black fruit flavours. A medium weight red that will do well near the front end of the wine list. Good value.
Tasted: 2004-02-08 by AG
Prices: BC $13.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 569558;   UPC: 083417055207
Producer: Canyon Road Cellars
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

86/100 McWilliam's Hanwood Merlot 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Simple smooth straight-up merlot with a splash of earthy black fruit and vanilla. There is 10 per cent cabernet in the blend for structure and 2 per cent petit verdot for aromatics. Inoffensive, well balanced and ready-to-drink.
Tasted: 2004-05-18 by AG
Prices: AB $14.99 (750 ml); BC $14.99 (750 ml) General Listing
CSPC: 092825;   UPC: 085000011751
Producer: McWilliam's Wines
Distributor: E. & J. Gallo Winery Canada, Ltd.
 
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 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 Talus Merlot 2001
California, United States
The 01 Talus Merlot is a mix of fruit harvested from vineyards in Lodi, Solano County, Central Valley and the Central Coast. Look for minty, leafy, cherry, smoky aromas that preview a round, soft, elegant style. The flavours are a mix of with tobacco, spice, black cherry and smoky earthy notes. A solid red at a very fair price.
Tasted: 2004-03-01 by AG
Prices: BC $12.98 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 475848;   UPC: 088232003570
Producer: Turner Road Vintners
Distributor: Medallion Wine Marketing

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.

86/100 Woodbridge Syrah 2000
California, United States
The second ediiton has a raw, black cherry fruit persona on thenose and the palate with a smooth silky, consumer-friendly finish. A light up-front red where most of the action is in the front of the mouth. Solid weekday red for use around the barbecue.
Tasted: 2004-02-08 by AG
Prices: BC $13.99 (750 ml)
UPC: 086003001664
Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

85/100 Abbey Vale Vat 427 Shiraz Cabernet 2002
Western Australia, Australia
Peppery, spicy, saddle leather, licorice nose with some black cherry notes. Smooth, round entry with very peppery, spicy, black cherry, licorice root flavours. A bit acidic on the finish but very suave. Very different style from Goundrey or Yellowtail.
Tasted: 2004-02-18 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $12.95 (750 ml) Estimated Canadian Retail
UPC: 9331844000453
Producer: Abbey Vale Wines
Distributor: Vinterra Wine Merchants

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 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.

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 
 
85/100 Caliterra Merlot 2001
Region del Valle Central, Chile
Huge spicy, peppery, sappy cassis nose with a touch of bell pepper and carmenère like notes. Soft, round, supple style with very smoky, spicy, cherry, minty cassis flavours. Simple, commercial style but full bodied. Solid barbecue red.
Tasted: 2004-04-03 by AG
Prices: AB $10.35 (750 ml); BC $12.37 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $9.90 (750 ml); ON $10.45 (750 ml); QB $11.90 (750 ml); SK $12.60 (750 ml)
CSPC: 466482;   UPC: 610444015036
Producer: Vina Caliterra
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

85/100 Canyon Road Merlot 2001
California, United States
Smoky, leafy compost, black cherry rootsy aromas preview a soft, round, warm entry. The flavours mix light dry cedar-y tannins and with smoky, licorice, black cherry flavours and a peppery, olive finish. Sound if a bit acidic on the finish. Fair price.
Tasted: 2004-02-16 by AG
Prices: BC $13.99 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 439000;   UPC: 083417054200
Producer: Canyon Road Cellars
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

85/100 Casillero del Diablo Merlot 2003
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, Chile
The Casillero merlot comes out of Rapel with a minty, peppery, savoury, sausage meat nose and some hints of cherry. It's soft, smooth and round on entry with light tannins. Cherry, cassis and spice preview its minty, herbal, peppery flavours and dry finish. Good balance but a bit young, needs a year or so to round out. Good value.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $11.95 (750 ml); BC $12.95 (750 ml) Specialty; MB $10.95 (750 ml); NB $12.49 (750 ml); NF $11.64 (750 ml); NS $12.95 (750 ml); ON $10.90 (750 ml); SK $13.10 (750 ml)
CSPC: 427088;   UPC: 7804320985633
Producer: Vina Concha y Toro S.A.
Distributor: Select Wine Merchants 
 
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 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 Kissing Bridge Merlot 2002
South Eastern Australia, Australia
Smoky, sappy, black currant nose with some leafy, cherry notes. Soft and sweet with a smooth, round texture. Black cherry, minty, resiny, smoky flavours with a sweet and sour finish. Solid beginners' red.
Tasted: 2004-03-01 by AG-ST
Prices: AB $10.49 (750 ml); BC $11.99 (750 ml) Speculative - The Bacchus Group
CSPC: 061788;   UPC: 831039000231
Producer: Cheviot Bridge Wine Company
Distributor: The Bacchus Group Inc.

85/100 Nederburg Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Western Cape, South Africa
Smoky, spicy, tea leaf, saddle leather with a touch of vanilla, fairly aromatic. Dry, round, fairly soft structure with black berry, dusty cedar, peppery, smoky gamy flavours. A bit acidic and warm but identifiable as cabernet and from SA. Good hamburger red.
Tasted: 2004-03-10 by AG
Prices: AB $10.99 (750 ml); BC $11.99 (750 ml); ON $12.49 (750 ml)
CSPC: 111526;   UPC: 083206000562
Producer: Nederburg Wines (Pty) Ltd.
Distributor: Mark Anthony Wine Merchants

85/100 Periquita 2000
Vinho Regional Terras do Sado, Setúbal Peninsula, Central and Southern Portugal, Portugal
Dry cherry/earthy/licorice, aromatic nose. On entry it's round and smooth but dry with more earthy, cherry jam, licorice, plum flavours. The finish is dry with fresh acidity; again good flavours for grilled steak and good value.
Tasted: 2004-03-27 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.26 (750 ml) Specialty; ON $8.95 (750 ml)
CSPC: 025262;   UPC: 600470204009
Producer: José Maria da Fonseca
Distributor: Philippe Dandurand Wines Ltd.

85/100 Santa Carolina Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, Chile
Pepper, tobacco, mint, stewed tomato and bell pepper mark the nose of this Santa Carolina cabernet. Dry, full, somewhat tannic entry with minty, cassis, dusty earth, bell pepper flavours and a meaty finish. Very dry finish; a bit old style considering the fine vintage.
Tasted: 2004-04-14 by AG
Prices: BC $11.51 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 535344;   UPC: 7804350596335
Producer: Vina Santa Carolina
Distributor: Charton-Hobbs

85/100 Terre de Schistes 2001
Faugères, Coteaux du Languedoc, Languedoc, South of France, France
Spicy, sweet cherry, pruny, barnyard nose with some alcohol showing through. Very soft and dry with a round structure and hot, peppery, black cherry, orange peel, strawberry flavours. Smooth and fruity but alcoholic with some acidity on the finish. A fine ribs and pizza wine.
Tasted: 2004-02-18 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.50 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 616797;   UPC: 3480641404912
Producer: Signatures du Sud
Distributor: The Seacove Group Inc.

85/100 Terre du Levant Côtes-du-Ventoux 2001
Côtes-du-Ventoux, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, France
Hot, peppery, menthol, garrigue, earthy, gamey nose. Soft, dry, round and fairly supple but very alcoholic. Peppery, spicy, licorice, black raspberry flavours with fresh acidity. Solid hamburger red.
Tasted: 2004-02-18 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $13.95 (750 ml) Speculative - Reichel-Waldorf
CSPC: 104463;   UPC: 3256811113119
Producer: Cellier de Marrenon
Distributor: Reichel-Waldorf Wine Imports Inc. 
 
85/100 Woodbridge Merlot 2001
California, United States
Mostly Lodi fruit goes into the '01 merlot that displays a mix of spicy, earthy, compost and carrot top aromas. The entry is soft and round (and slightly sweet) with smoky, cedar-y, leafy, sour cherry flavours. A simple, easy-sipping red that would work accompany grilled flatbread pizza.
Tasted: 2004-03-01 by AG
Prices: BC $14.43 (750 ml)
CSPC: 494492;   UPC: 086003000490
Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

85/100 Woodbridge Zinfandel 2001
California, United States
Earth, licorice, cedar nose with fresh crushed berries and a touch of jam. A light-bodied red with spicy, cedar bark and black cherry flavours with fresh acidity. Soft, easy-sipping, comfortable red to have with your pizza.
Tasted: 2004-03-08 by AG
Prices: BC $13.38 (750 ml)
CSPC: 329110;   UPC: 086003901902
Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
Distributor: Maxxium Canada (Vancouver)

85/100 Yvon Mau Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
l'Aude, Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, South of France, France
Cedar, tobacco, gamey, spicy cassis nose with nice peppery notes. Soft, dry, round entry with peppery, tobacco, earthy cassis flavours and a light cedar-y, licorice finish. Simple cab that delivers for the price.
Tasted: 2004-04-17 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $10.49 (750 ml) Specialty
CSPC: 349860;   UPC: 3192371011727
Producer: Yvon Mau S.A.
Distributor: Freixenet Canada; Grady Wine Marketing