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Tastings: January 2005
30 January 2005
86PTS
Solo Shiraz 2002
Lazio, ItalyVery spicy, black pepper, licorice, black cherry aromas with smoky, garrigue notes. Dry, round, elegant but slightly lean with cherry, smoky, peppery, spicy, garrigue flavours. Good intensity but a bit austere overall.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Kris Pinot Grigio 2003
Veneto, ItalyFloral, mineral, citrus, green apple skin and pear aromas. Round, elegant, fresh palate with citrus, mineral, apple, floral, spice flavours. Nice finesse if a bit light.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Valdelosfrailes Cigales Joven 2003
Cigales, Castilla-Leon, SpainEarthy, smoky, sausage, rootsy aromas. Dry, round, mineral, licorice, rootsy, cherry, smoky flavours. Savoury style with some intensity and smoothness but there is an underlying barnyard note that keeps this red from singing.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Cono Sur Cabernet Sauvignon / Carmenere 2003
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileThis wine is made from organically grown grapes. Spicy, peppery, sawdust, saddle leather aromas with some light berry fruit. Dry, soft, round palate with cedar, sawdust, peppery, smoky, cassis flavours with a dusty, chalky, savoury finish.Prices:| BC | $14.15 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Tinhorn Creek Pinot Noir 2002
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSmoky, rhubarb, gamey, carrot top aromas. Soft, round, dry palate with some elegance. Black cherry, rhubarb, smoky, rootsy, cedar flavours with a slightly dry finish. Light style and simple pinot.Prices:| BC | $15.50 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Calona Vineyards Artist Series Pinot Noir Reserve 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSmoky, saddle leather, waxy, prune aromas. Dry, somewhat tight with smoky, stewed prune, spicy, vanilla, stewed rhubarb flavours. More oak and cooked fruit than bright pinot character.Prices:| BC | $12.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.29 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.49 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Saintsbury Garnet Carneros Pinot Noir 2003
Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesStrawberry jam, spicy, vanilla, celery aromas with a hint of barnyard and forest floor. Soft, round, smooth and elegant with cherry, smoky, spicy, stewed rhubarb and vanilla flavours. Well balanced, elegant style with some juicy berry notes. Ready to drink and well worth the money.Prices:| BC | $31.95 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Saintsbury Carneros Pinot Noir 2002
Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesVanilla, strawberry, barnyard, spicy, resiny, gamey, licorice aromas. Soft, round, elegant, supple but dry palate with nice spicy, strawberry, raspberry, smoky, licorice, carrot top flavours. Good concentration and balance with light tannins at the end. Good and ripe with matched acidity. Drink now and over the next 2 years.Prices:| BC | $45.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Jackson Estate Pinot Noir 2002
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandFloral, cherry, minty, carrot, tea aromas with a cedar, barnyard note. Very light, dry, delicate style with smoky, sour cherry, rhubarb, carrot, tea flavours with a slightly dry, acidic finish. Good fruit but could use a little mid-palate heft to plush-out the palate.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Bouchard Aîné & Fils Pinossimo Pinot Noir 2003
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceBig minty, garrigue, barnyard, cherry aromas. Dry, round, slightly tannic entry but lighter style. Smoky, spicy, compost, minty, cherry aromas. Bit too dry and chewy on the finish but with some pinot character. Break out the duck confit.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Chateau St. Jean Pinot Noir 2002
Sonoma County, California, United StatesA mix of Russian River and Carneros fruit offers up a smoky, black cherry, rootsy, barnyard, spicy nose spiked with celery seed aromas with a licorice orange peel highlight. Rich, round, soft and full with velvety textures and a touch of warmth. Ripe cherry jam, smoky vanilla, celery salt, spicy, rootsy forest floor flavours. Very well balanced, rich style with a warm finish. Good value and real pinot.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $27.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Lang Vineyards Pinot Noir 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaForest floor, barnyard, cedar, resin, cherry aromas. Soft, round, dry, easy palate with smoky, rhubarb, sour cherry, rootsy, orange peel flavours. Good pinot flavours and balance but the nose lacks fruit. All in all a fine effort.Prices:| BC | $13.90 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Calona Vineyards Artist Series Pinot Noir Reserve 2002
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRhubarb, celery top, spicy, sour cherry aromas. Dry, light, elegant and smooth but not much intensity with cedar, spicy, sour cherry, rootsy smoky flavours. A bit austere simple style with somewhat low fruit overall.Prices:| BC | $12.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.29 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.49 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Sandhill Gamay Noir Burrowing Owl Vineyard 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSmoky oak, gamey, cedar, spicy, peppery aromas. Smooth, round, dry palate with more smoky, vanilla, peppery, spicy, sausage flavours. Decent balance but not much fruit or varietal character. Could be a contender if the oak gets toned down and the fruit is left to be a bit more expressive.Prices:| BC | $16.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.25 | 750ml |
| MB | $15.79 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Carmen Pinot Noir Reserve 2002
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileBig smoky, saddle leather, minty, rhubarb, black cherry, barnyard aromas mark the nose of this pinot although it's hard not to miss the cool minty 'Carmen' style. Very warm, dry, round palate with big smoky, minty, leafy, rhubarb, sour cherry, resiny flavours. Hot and stewed veggie style, not for everyone.Prices:| BC | $24.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Wild Horse Canyon Pinot Noir 2002
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHerbaceous, carrot, rhubarb, spicy, dill aromas. Soft, round, dry easy-sipping style with black cherry, green savoury, carrot, rhubarb flavours. Sound, simple stuff for fans of the movie Sideways.Prices:| BC | $13.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.89 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.99 | 750ml |
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29 January 2005
87PTS
Mission Hill Dry Riesling Five Vineyards 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLovely fresh green apple, peach notes with attractive floral/honey, clover aromas. Round, elegant, fairly dry style with mineral, green apple skin, nectarine, honey, floral flavours and a touch of lime rind. Nice acidity and balance in a dryer style for food. This is the kind of riesling we've been waiting for and it comes with screw cap to boot. Load up for summer.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Columbia Crest Two Vines Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesFloral, candied grapefruit rind, mineral, butter aromas. Soft, round, friendly style with grapefruit, smoky bell pepper, mineral, apple skin flavours with a dry, crisp finish. Good value for the rounder, riper, American style sauvignon.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.99 | 750ml |
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28 January 2005
0PTS
Chimney Rock Fume Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesAs well as employing malolactic fermentation, lees stirring and whole-cluster pressing, Chimney Rock ferments a portion of the grapes in small, custom-made stainless steel barrels. The nose is skinny with pear and melon undertones. Similar low flavours and extract mark the palate and the finish.Prices:| US | $13.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
De Loach Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesUsing estate grapes and selected fruit from growers in the Russian River Valley, the "Russian River Valley" series of wines represent the "heart and soul" of DeLoach offering. Look for bright aromas of melon, mineral and passion fruit. It's medium weight with more grapefruit and melon flavours and a clean fresh finish.Prices:| US | $14.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Barefoot Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe Barefoot Reserve is hand picked, whole cluster pressed and tank fermented. The nose has a simple grassy green fruit nose and flavours with hints of citrus and honey. Similar flavours mark the palate but it lacks a bit of zip and varietal definition.Prices:| US | $13.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Lambert Bridge Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe Lambert sauvignon is 100 per cent barrel fermented and has 3 per cent viognier in the mix. The 03 is the first vintage to include grapes from the winery's Griffin Vineyard that is planted with the aromatic sauvignon musqué. Look for a floral perfumed nose with citrus and ripe pineapple notes. Similar flavours with a soft sweet fruit finish. Not quite as zippy as we would like but solid.Prices:| US | $16.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Pedroncelli East Side Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesEast Side refers to vineyards planted along the eastern or early morning sun side of Dry Creek and the evening coastal fog influence. There is 13 per cent chardonnay in the blend which sees no oak. The nose had an odd marzipan/cooked egg scent mixed with cool green lemongrass and grapefruit tones and mashed peas. Not a great bottle.Prices:| US | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Kendall-Jackson Sauvignon Blanc Vintner's Reserve 2003
California, United StatesFresh inviting nose of melon and ripe tropical fruit with a touch of volatility. Quite crisp and fresh on the palate with ripe melon and fig fruit flavours. Simple straight up sauvignon.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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27 January 2005
88PTS
Sauvignon Republic Russian River Sauvignon Blanc 2004
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesGrapefruit rind, smoky, grassy, mineral, gooseberry aromas with some leesy notes. Ripe, round, rich entry but elegant with gooseberry, grapefruit rind and grapefruit juice, mineral, grassy flavours. Nice length and intensity with a fairly dry, mineral, grapefruit finish.Prices:| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Sauvignon Republic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2004
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandCanned asparagus, smoky, mineral, gooseberry, minty aromas. Dry, round, elegant and fresh with canned jalapeno, asparagus, mineral, juicy grapefruit and kiwi flavours. Full and dry with juicy citrus acidity on the finish but very well balanced.Prices:| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Chardonnay 2003
Eden Valley, South Australia, AustraliaThis vineyard is located at Mt. Crawford (Eden Valley) a consistently cool site. Vanilla, tropical fruit, baked apple, citrus aromas with some baked apple and honey. Warm entry with honey, buttery, citrus, canned peach flavours. Solid, fruity style with some verve.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Danie de Wet Chardonnay Sur Lie 2004
Robertson, Breede River Valley, South AfricaPeach, mineral, green apple skin, floral, candied lees aromas. Dry, round, crisp and fresh with buttery, spicy, mineral, lees, green apple skin flavours. Nice balance if a bit light on extract.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
De Wetshof Lesca Chardonnay 2003
Robertson, Breede River Valley, South AfricaHoney, canned peach, garlic lees, spicy nut aromas with a slightly green artichoke note. Dry, round, slightly tight with buttery, mineral, smoky, honey, citrus rind and green apple flavours. Crisp and flavourful if a bit light in mid-palate concentration. A solid wine we have known for over a decade and it's only getting to Canada now.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Toso Brut NV
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaMineral, green peach, grassy, green apple aromas. Round, soft, slightly foamy style with some green apple, mineral, toasty peach flavours. Simple, fun stuff.Prices:| BC | $15.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Cusumano Insolia 2003
Sicily, ItalyCanned nectarine, almond, mineral, slightly spicy lees aromas. Very dry, round elegant style with canned pear, mineral, almond, spicy, lees flavours. Rich with some length but a touch bitter on the finish.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
McManis Family Vineyards Chardonnay 2003
California, United StatesLeesy, floral, spicy, baked apple, honey aromas. Round, warm, soft entry with spicy, honey, buttery, mineral, floral, citrus flavours. A bit soft and sweet on the finish but sound.Prices:| BC | $22.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Herder Chardonnay 2003
Keremeos, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, toasty lees, buttery oak aromas with some honey and green apple. Ripe, round and rich with very buttery, smoky vanilla, nutty, leesy, citrus flavours. Quite warm finish with a sense of sweetness and very smoky butterscotch. A good first effort. Look for this label to improve as they back off the oak.Prices:| BC | $16.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Herder Pinot Gris Bellamy Vineyards 2003
Keremeos, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMineral, butter, spicy lees nose with pear and baked apple aromas. Round, dry, rich and warm with buttery vanilla, lees, spicy mineral, baked pear and citrus flavours. Good intensity and ripeness if a bit oaky.Prices:| BC | $14.90 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay Reserve 2002
Carneros, Sonoma County, California, United StatesFloral, citrus, baked pear, smoky, buttery nose with honey, lanolin aromas with some leesy/anise notes. Rich, round, full, fat style with good acidity. Big spicy, smoky, creamy toasty lees flavours with sausage, honey, mineral, baked pear and butterscotch on the finish. Fine length and intensity if somewhat alcoholic.Prices:| BC | $49.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $43.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay 2002
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesSmoky, sausage, lees, floral, butterscotch, green apple, mineral aromas. Round, full but elegant with smoky butterscotch, vanilla, honey, baked pear, mineral, citrus flavours. Good acidity but somewhat hot and dry on the finish.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
R. H. Phillips White Zinfandel 2003
Dunnigan Hills, Yolo County, California, United StatesWhite pepper, floral, peach, almond aromas. Soft, sweet, round style with peach, mineral, candied cherry flavours. Simple, sweet quaffer with some balanced.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Carmen Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé 2004
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileLeafy, bell pepper, spicy, green bean aromas. Sweet, round, fresh palate with bell pepper, green bean, cherry flavours with good acidity on the finish. A bit of a bizarre combination of sugar and veggie characters.Prices:| BC | $13.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.50 | 750ml |
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81PTS
Kenwood White Zinfandel 2003
Sonoma County, California, United StatesPale pink colour. Perfumed, floral, candied cherry nose with earthy, vinyl aromas. Round, sweet, light with candied, mineral, candied cherry Kool-Aid flavours. Your classic picnic pink.Prices:| Estimated BC | $14.75 | 750ml |
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26 January 2005
0PTS
White Oak Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesWhite Oak's Russian River sauvignon has a fabulous fresh demeanour as in all stainless steel and no malolactic (we think). The nose is a fabulous mix of citrus guava persimmons kumquats and mint. Very fresh and stylish. Exactly what sauvignon should be and it's a bargain to boot.Prices:| US | $14.00 | 750ml |
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23 January 2005
88PTS
Valentin Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaEarthy, cassis jam, chocolate, barnyard, dill, spicy, cedar aromas with a peppery streak. Rich, round, slightly tannic entry with lots of cassis jam, chocolate, peppery, minty, cola, vanilla flavours. Quite young but has good intensity, needs 2-3 years to round out. Fine message for Argentina.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Cum Laude Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileSpicy, sappy cassis, black olive, resiny aromas. Dry, soft, slightly lean entry with earthy, resiny, minty, cassis flavours and a dry, cedar-y, resiny finish. No real fruit.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaSpicy, smoky, blueberry, black berry, minty resin aromas. Soft, round, dry entry with minty, licorice, cherry, chocolate, vanilla flavours. Youthful dry finish with a touch of acidity.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Stark Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaDill, black olive, minty, cedar, smoky aromas. Dry, round, elegant and fairly soft with smoky, leather, minty cassis, cedar chocolate flavours. Some elegance and finesse but a touch dry and light.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Langmeil Cabernet Sauvignon Barossa 'The Blacksmith' 2002
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaVery peppery, tarry, spicy, saddle leather, tobacco, vanilla, blackberry aromas. Rich, ripe, round, with soft tannins. Lots of blackberry jam, spicy, peppery, vanilla cola, chocolate tobacco flavours with some dry tannins and acidity on the finish. Needs better balance.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Sonoma County, California, United StatesBig cedar-y, smoky, leather, chocolate, vanilla, blackberry, pruny, peppery aromas. Rich, round, dry with soft tannins but chunky. Cedar, chocolate, pepper and licorice flavours streaked with cassis, vanilla, cigar flavours and a warm, pudding, tobacco finish. Sonoma cabernet on steroids. Good intensity but clumsy.Prices:| BC | $42.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $36.50 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Esser Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
California, United StatesCassis, blueberry, sweaty leather nose with peppery, mint aromas. Dry and slightly tight entry with chalky, vegetal, cassis flavours and earthy/leafy undertones with a touch of cedar and acidity.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Kloovenberg Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Swartland, Coastal Region, South AfricaSmoky, saddle leather, sausage, blackberry, peppery aromas. Somewhat dry and tight but round with peppery, cassis, smoky leather, prune and cherry flavours. Very dry with trademark acidic finish - somewhat disjointed for the price.Prices:| AB | $21.50 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Cockfighter's Ghost Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Langhorne Creek, South Australia, AustraliaBlack olive, cassis, dill, cedar, minty, saddle leather aromas with some barnyard and straw notes. Dry, round, fairly soft entry with light tannins. Cassis, spicy, minty, tobacco, vanilla, gamey saddle leather flavours with a mocha finish. Some light tannins, could use a year or so.Prices:| BC | $24.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Howard Park Leston Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaVery spicy, peppery, earthy, garrigue, (WA cabernet) nose with streaks of chocolate, smoky cola, blackberry aromas and some saddle leather notes. Dry, elegant but somewhat tannic with elevated acidity. Lots of chocolate, peppery, blackberry, cassis, mocha, tobacco flavours. Good flavour intensity but the finish is just too dry and acidic for the intensity and balance of this wine.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
McWilliam's of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Coonawarra, South Australia, AustraliaFine attractive cedar, cassis, tobacco, mocha, and saddle leather nose with black olive, clove and a touch of cardamom. Dry, somewhat tannic entry but fairly elegant with some acidity. Big cassis jam, spicy, black olive, tobacco cigar, vanilla, peppery, mocha flavours with a strong cedar, prune cassis finish. Well made, needs 2-4 years to fully soften.Prices:| AB | $38.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $39.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $38.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Eaglehawk Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaPeppery, spicy, blackberry, rootsy aromas. Round, soft, slightly tannic entry with peppery, earthy, black cherry, cassis flavours and warm, crisp, sweet fruit finish. Your standard Oz cab.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Saltram Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
South Australia, AustraliaLeafy, olive, cassis, chocolate aromas. Medium body, fairly dry, somewhat tannic entry with chocolate, cassis, blueberry, leafy flavours and a dry earth, dry finish with some tannins.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Carmen Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileIntense minty, sappy cassis, olive, peppery, spicy aromas. Dry, tight and somewhat tannic with peppery, sappy cassis, minty, olive, smoky chocolate flavours. Very cool and dry, needs a steak.Prices:| AB | $18.50 | 750ml |
| BC | $20.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Carmen Nativa Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileBig spicy, sappy, cassis jam, minty, peppery, saddle leather aromas. Dry, slightly tannic, tight entry with chocolate, cigar butt, spicy, vanilla, earthy, black licorice and cassis flavours with some smoky saddle leather notes. Young and somewhat tannic on the finish, needs a few years.Prices:| BC | $24.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.50 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Carmen Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileReductive earthy, sappy cassis, mint nose with leafy, root vegetable aromas. Dry, slightly tight, and tannic on entry with lots of smoky mint, cassis, peppery, leafy flavours. Warm and lean on the finish; a cool style.Prices:| BC | $14.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.50 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Carmen Cabernet Sauvignon Gold Reserve 1999
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe Gold Reserve is 100 per cent cabernet sauvignon from a single vineyard called "Carneros" that spends 18 months in new French oak. Look for a big spicy, minty, leafy, cassis, barnyard, sausage, peppery, garrigue aromas with a menthol, smoky leather streak. Rich, round, intense palate with lots of ripe, grainy tannins. Fat minty, menthol, coffee, peppery, cassis jam, vanilla, tobacco, cedar flavours with a big streak of black olive and tar. Quite warm on the finish, this still needs 3-5 years of aging.Prices:| BC | $77.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Peter Lehmann Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaEnticing cola, vanilla cream, black berry, smoky saddle leather aromas. The entry is tight and dry with some tannin. Smoky, cola, resiny, oaky black berry flavours with a cherry vanilla, somewhat tannic finish.Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $21.95 | 750ml |
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21 January 2005
88PTS
Markham Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesStylish nose of kiwi and melon with a streak of honey. The entry is soft and round but vibrant with dry grassy grapefruit rind and honey flavours. A benchmark Napa sauvignon that is solid from front to back.Prices:| BC | $27.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
EOS Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThis estate bottle Paso Robles sauvignon has approximately 30 per cent barrel fermented fruit in the blend. Grapefruit and lime rind flavours predominate with hints of pear and mango. Lively and fresh if a bit simple. Drink now.Prices:| US | $14.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Benziger Fumé Blanc 2003
North Coast, North Coast Region, California, United StatesLovely bright citrus notes mix with melon, grapefruit, and smoky slate. Similar flavours mark the palate with grapefruit, kiwi and buttery green apples predominating. Rich textures, deft use of oak and a long finish make this a delight to sip. Very consistent from year to year.Prices:| BC | $24.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.50 | 750ml |
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20 January 2005
90PTS
Shaw and Smith Shiraz 2003
Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide, South Australia, AustraliaA cool-climate style and only the second vintage. Peppery, licorice, smoky, leafy, gamey notes mix with blueberry, black cherry aromas and some garrigue. Soft dry and round with light, grainy tannins. Spicy, peppery, licorice, black cherry, blueberry, vanilla and smoky garrigue flavours. A touch crisp but quite young, shows great finesse, try over the next 2-4 years. Made from two vineyards and eight year-old vines on average.Prices:| BC | $44.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $36.95 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Shaw and Smith Chardonnay M3 Vineyard 2003
Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide, South Australia, AustraliaVery spicy lees, vanilla, peach, baked apple, mineral and citrus aromas with a touch of mango and honey. Dry, round, elegant and crisp with a slight oily texture. Lots of creamy vanilla, citrus, mineral, green apple falvours with a spicy, butterscotch, nutty finish. A bit taut right now, will improve over the next 2-3 years.Prices:| BC | $44.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $36.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Burrowing Owl Chardonnay 2003
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy vanilla, honey, mango, peach and baked apple aromas with some citrus notes. Ripe, round, dry and slightly hot with a dry, mineral, oily texture. Citrus, peach, creamy lees, vanilla, buttery baked apple flavours. Very ripe with some good length but showing some alcohol in the finish.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Burrowing Owl Pinot Noir 2003
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCompost, leaf, black cherry, minty, maraschino, vanilla, cola licorice aromas and quite hot. Dry, rich, somewhat tannic and tight palate. Good rootsy, black cherry, minty, vanilla, leafy forest floor and rhubarb flavours. Elegant styling but too hot and compost-y at this point with some dry, tight tannins on the finish. Needs a year or two to settle down.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Burrowing Owl Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVery deep cherry colour. Black olive, cassis, spicy, peppery, tobacco, roasted bell pepper, saddle leather aromas with smoky oak vanilla and garrigue notes. Moderately rich round and supple with balanced tannins. Good cassis, black berry, vanilla, chocolate, peppery, minty, smoky, black olive flavours and a touch of roasted bell pepper. Suave, supple style with good balance and intensity and a few tannins to shed. A 3-7 year wine, very good effort.Prices:| BC | $26.90 | 750ml |
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19 January 2005
87PTS
Stonestreet Upper Barn Sauvignon Blanc Alexander Mountain Estate 2000
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe Upper Barn vineyard rises to 1,800' above sea level. With its shallow gravel soils and cool climate, the seven-acre vineyard tends to produce low yields of mineral streaked sauvignon blanc. The wine is barrel fermented but remains fairly crisp with plenty of citrus rind and lemon/grapefruit flavours. It's good but needs drinking. Less oak could really extend the life of this wine and freshen up the finish.Prices:| US | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Schug Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Sonoma County, California, United StatesSchug blends spice and acidity from the cooler Carneros district with the richer honey melon fruit of Sonoma County. Some 60 per cent barrel fermented fruit gives it mouth feel complexity and weight and it all balances out the pineapple tropical fruit and lime rind flavours on the palate. Solid value.Prices:| US | $15.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Simi Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Sonoma County, California, United StatesA standout in the tasting offering a bright fresh fruit style with balance and a vibrancy of fruit many of its peers lack. Grassy notes, creamy textures and citrus melon mineral fruit flavours scream bring on the food.Prices:| BC | $23.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Courtney Benham Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Napa Valley, California, United StatesCourtney Benham, proprietor of Martin Ray Winery says the 'Courtney Benham' describes these wines as: a prestigious well-known winery decides to sell excess inventory, we buy it in barrel, and bottle it under my name". Each wine has a total production of less than 1,000 cases priced at about half of their normal retail price. The Stag's Leap District, Edna Valley, and Napa Valley are just a few of the appellations offering a wide array of varietals. We really liked the Napa sauvignon with its Graves-like nose and ripe Napa fruit style. The style is crisp with a mix of tropical fruit flavours and a cleansing fresh citrus finish.Prices:Read Full Note
86PTS
Conn Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesNot a lot here. We like the fresh clean, mineral style upfront but there isn't alot of intensity. Simple ready-to-drink white with summer salads.. Prices:| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
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18 January 2005
90PTS
Matanzas Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe 02 sauvignon blend has a touch of sémillon and sauvignon musqué. There's a fair bit of lees in the mix (and 15 per cent barrel fermentation) that gives it a creamy texture and tends to knock the fruit back. The upside is a complex wine that revels in its Russian River, Knights Valley, Alexander Valley, Sonoma Valley and Mendocino Valley fruit. Look for a bright floral character on the nose, citrus and fig flavours and a touch of vanilla in the aftertaste.Prices:| BC | $49.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Dry Creek Vineyard Fumé Blanc 2003
Sonoma County, California, United StatesIf there was an award for consistently well made this wine would be it. Fresh clean vibrant full of grapefruit, lemongrass and citrus flavours. Very easy to like and should be excellent with a wide variety of seafood.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Origin Napa Sauvignon Blanc St. Helena Brand 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe second Origin Napa wine tasted side by side but the St. Helena is not near as compelling as the Gamble Vineyard. It remains fresh but it is more herbaceous and without the same amount of extract and intensity. This all Napa sauvignon blends cool fruit from Carneros with warmer lots in Oak Knoll and Rutherford. The grapes are cold soaked and fermented with Bordeaux yeast for freshness and crispness. The goal is pure varietal sauvignon. Simple but easy to drink.Prices:| US | $27.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Inniskillin Okanagan Vidal Icewine Dark Horse Vineyard 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaQuite fat 0n nose of peach marmalade and the ever present plastic pail aromas. Rich and viscous on entry with more sweet orange and peach fruit. Very rich finish with burnt caramel and citrus rind flavours. Solid effort in a very warm vintage. Drink now and over the next two to three years. Serve with fresh fruit.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Origin Napa Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesAccording one of Napa's best writers Paul Franson "Origin-Napa wines is one of Napa Valley's newest wineries, but it has deep roots here. The wines come from Bill Davies, son of Schramsberg founders Jamie and the late Jack Davies, and Tom Gamble, scion of a family that's lived in the valley since the early part of the last century. Gamble Vineyards sauvignon is a blend of 63 musqué de Loire clone and 37 per cent Preston. It's quite a citrus bomb on the nose with big lemon and mineral highlights. It has wonderful personality and while it is 100 per cent barrel fermented only 15 per cent of the wood is new and the wine remains fresh. Bright figgy floral fruit jumps from the glass.Prices:| US | $27.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesWell done given the warm growing conditions in '03. We like the herbal gooseberry hints mixed with ripe tropical fruit flavours pineapple and melon/mango. The creamy texture and oak is all in balance. Vibrant and fresh but with some weight. There is 24 per cent sémillon in the mix.Prices:| US | $23.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
M. Trinchero Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThis is old style sauvignon with big smooth smoky buttery textures and flavours mask the fruit. No real varietal style unless you want a sauvignon made in the chardonnay style.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Peju Province Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThis is the fourth release of the estate grown, Persephone Ranch sauvignon. The wine is picked at three stages of ripeness and blended. There isn't much stuffing in '03 when compared to its peers. Some citrus notes but not a lot of fruit intensity and simple styling. Disappointing.Prices:| US | $16.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc Reserve 2001
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe Fume Reserve is a blend of top lots selected from the home To-Kalon vineyard. The rich alluvial soil gives the wine a silky texture and bright tropical fruit flavours. The flavours are an indescribably delicious mix of floral spice and fruit with just enough lees to give it length and complexity. There's always some sémillon used to enrich the wine along with a modicum of new oak. Scallops crab cakes seafood salads the sky is the limit here.Prices:| BC | $53.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc 2002
Napa Valley, California, United StatesFinely-tuned barrel fermentation and aging contribute to the creamy yet elegant styling of this fresh citrus scented white. A slightly smoky mineral flavour streaked with creamy grapefruit/pineapple and green apple skin makes for a very impressive effort. After a bit of a down turn in the 90s this wine is back in a big way.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $24.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $29.20 | 750ml |
| NS | $35.65 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc 2003
Sonoma County, California, United StatesSmoky, mineral, honey, jalapeno with leesy / gooseberry notes. Rich and dry it is slightly oily on the palate with crisp acidity. Very smoky (fumée), mineral/garlic lees flavours with honey, vanilla, dried fig and grassy, gooseberry notes. A well-made, intense sauvignon for the discerning.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.50 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Rodney Strong Sauvignon Blanc Charlotte's Home 2003
Sonoma County, California, United StatesImpressive fresh gooseberry, kiwi, grapefruit rind nose streaked with floral, mineral honey and smoke. On the palate it is medium-bodied, round and elegant with clean buttery, mineral, ripe kiwi, grapefruit, green melon and passion fruit flavours. The finish is long with stony, mineral, passion fruit and citrus flavours. Classy, attractive style with finesse. Good value here.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Shaw and Smith Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide, South Australia, AustraliaThere's more to Oz than big brand wines as evidenced by the Shaw and Smith wines. Look for a gooseberry, grapefruit rind, mineral, floral, kiwi nose and a dry, round, elegant style. The intense flavours of gooseberry, grapefruit rind mix with a chalky texture and a crisp smoky undercurrent that finishes slightly grassy with green melon fruit. Stylish and fresh with a long, citrus aftertaste. Well done. Sold at Kits Wine Cellar, Divino's Quayside and Liberty Point Grey. The 2004 version arrives in March in screw cap.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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16 January 2005
88PTS
Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesOpen bell pepper and mineral sweaty aromas streaked with jalapeño, lime rind and vanilla. This is always a fun-to-sip style with ripe, kiwi/melon fruit and a skinny undercurrent of green apple skin fruit. It's Napa but it's getting fresher and leaner and we like that.Prices:| BC | $49.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $43.95 | 750ml |
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91PTS
St. Supery Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2004
Napa Valley, California, United StatesNot your average California sauvignon or even above average this is great. Winemaker Michael Beaulac gets it when it comes to fresh, zippy sauvignon and the 2004 maybe the best yet. Look for all the right signs here: green lime, kiwi grapefruit and a dusting of gooseberry. Long and stylish but with a clean crisp finish. Very fine.Prices:| BC | $26.70 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Turnbull Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Oakville, Napa Valley, California, United StatesSkellenger Vineyards is the source of most of the sauvignon used at Turnbull half of which is the sauvignon musqué clone and its lime-scented fruit. The blend gets an extra smattering of three to five per cent viognier and malvasia bianca both of which elevate the wines floral notes and a simialr hit of sémillon. This is delicious sauvignon that is consistently streaked with lime citrus notes and refreshing fruit flavours in the finish. Very fine.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Beringer Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesFresh open ripe fruit style with spicy melon and vanilla scents. Fresh and light with ripe but simple sweet herbal fruit flavours. Round and well balanced it is a pleasant, soft, safe style sauvignon that will appeal to a broad audience.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.75 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Benessere Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesAt Benessere hand-picked fruit is is "whole-clustered pressed, cold settled for 48 hours, and then decanted off the pulp and solids. It's fermented on native yeasts in stainless steel tanks. The wine is aged in neutral French oak barrels for four months. The nose is very sauvignon with grapefruit and lemon zest predominating but it finishes dry and somewhat simple.Prices:| US | $16.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Grgich Hills Dry Sauvignon Blanc Fume Blanc 2003
American Canyon, Napa Valley, California, United StatesLight and elegant, this "New World" 'dry' sauvignon is a delight to sip. The '03 is the second estate-grown edition of Grgich Fumé Blanc and it's exceptional. The grapes come off the winery's American Canyon vineyard where the climate is cool and windy. The nose is awash in citrus fruit as is the clean fresh palate. Exceptional styling and balance with just a hint of barrel vanilla in the finish. Not quite New Zealand but a far cry from most California sauvignon.Prices:| US | $37.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Parducci Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Lake County, California, United StatesParducci's sauvignon comes out of a winery-owned vineyard in Lake County, just east of Mendocino. The vineyard sits between 1,000 and 1,200 feet in elevation encouraging cool fruit that matures late in the growing season. Light stone fruit/herbal flavours with a pinch of citrus zest and melon finish just a touch sour. Good value. Oysters are the ticket here.Prices:| US | $8.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Wente Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Livermore, San Francisco Bay, California, United StatesThe fruit for this wine comes off several Livermore Valley vineyards and is all fermented in stainless steel. This wine has aromas and flavours of green fig, windfall (bruised) apple and melon/mango. The finis is clean and fresh with just a touch of sour fruit. Solid everyday sauvignon. Just fewer than 11,000 cases made.Prices:| AB | $16.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Brander Sauvignon Blanc Cuvée Nicolas 2003
Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesFresh citrus style on the nose with limon notes but the flavours are broad and sweet. There's 25 per cent sémillon in the blend but it all appears riper than normal - perhaps mimicking the warm growing season. With fifty per cent new oak and 25 per cent sémillon to broaden the palate it's just too much in '03. Only 100 cases produced.Prices:| US | $25.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Bernardus Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesSolid, straight up Monterey County sauvignon blanc with a clean fresh demeanour. Lime rind and grapefruit make you want to drink it immediately. Just enough sweetness in the back to entice a wide range of consumers. Long bright and fun to sip especially out-of-doors in warm weather.Prices:| US | $15.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Bernardus Sauvignon Blanc Griva Vineyard 2003
Salinas Valley, Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe Griva vineyard in the cool windswept Arroyo Seco AVA is planted exclusively to the Musqué clone of Sauvignon Blanc. The fragrant clone seems to thrive in the sandy cobblestone soils issuing a first class sauvignon that's simply delicious to drink. Look for mouth-watering lime rind and grassy/herbal notes that span a spectrum of fruit flavours from tight mineral/citrus to ripe melon and gooseberry. Great intensity but with balance. Well done.Prices:| US | $20.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Gainey Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe style is fresh with mineral lemongrass and just a hint of orange peel. With 24 per cent sémillon in the mix the wine has a real citrus bent. The textures are clean the taste zippy. There's still some transitional creaminess on the mid-palate but this sauvignon is headed for the refreshing, New Zealand style at top speed. The fermentation is 45 per cent tank fermented, and 55 per cent barrel fermented and it's aged for seven months in only six per cent new oak.Prices:| US | $14.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Obikwa Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Western Cape, South AfricaNothing much complicated here. This is inexpensive, slightly vegetal cabernet sauvignon the slips down easily. A modicum of fruit, soft tannins and slightly elevated acidity mix to make this a solid mid-week sipper.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Sunrise Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Region del Valle Central, ChileTypical earthy minty 'inexpensive' Chilean cabernet nose. Fairly soft entry with herbal cassis fruit flavours and dry chalky tannins. This is serviceable red wine for hamburgers or an inexpensive by-the-glass pour.Prices:| BC | $10.40 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.50 | 750ml |
| MB | $8.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $8.80 | 750ml |
| NB | $9.99 | 750ml |
| NS | $10.45 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Errazuriz Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2002
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileMinty, 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. Solid for the vintagePrices:| BC | $15.20 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.41 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.55 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.95 | 750ml |
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15 January 2005
84PTS
Gainey Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc Limited Selection 2003
Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe Limited Selection is a 50/50 blend of stainless steel and barrel fermented fruit with 9 per cent sémillon. It's made in the fresh fruit style with mineral streaks but the overall the tone is too sour. Acetic notes round out a wine to avoid.Prices:| US | $0.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Santa Barbara Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe Santa Barbara sauvignon contains two clones grown in two distinct meso-climates. The tropical fruit and cool citrus flavours of the Musqué clone planted at Lafond Vineyard are paired with the warm climate "Davis Clone 1" from Westerly Vineyard located some 16 miles inland to the east of Lafond where average temperatures are as much as 15 degrees warmer. The fermentation is done in half stainless steel; half neutral oak puncheons and there is 4 per cent viognier added for spice. The style is delicate with light grassy, herbal undertones. Lots of lime rind fruit marks the front end but it finishes light and a bit washed out. Simple summer sipper style.Prices:| US | $12.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Brander Sauvignon Blanc Au Naturel 2002
Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe au Naturel moniker refers to no oak ageing and you smell and taste that right away. Tighter than the regular it has more obvious citrus notes with a touch of grass and orange peel. Bright vibrant and streaked with mineral notes in the finish. Very clean. Classic oyster wine.Prices:| US | $30.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Mazzei Tenuta Belguardo Poggio Bronzone 2002
Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyRipe black cherry, plum jam, smoky peppery, spicy, tobacco aromas with a gamey, coffee, vanilla, olive streak. Rich, round, slightly tannic entry with a dry, slightly acidic finish. Good coffee, spicy, peppery, licorice, black cherry plum flavours with tobacco and vanilla at the end. Well made with elevated acidity, try in a year or so with rich meat dishes.Prices:| BC | $50.55 | 750ml |
| BC | $40.96 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Mazzei Serrata di Belguardo 2002
Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyGamey, spicy, black cherry, peppery, vanilla aromas with a touch of coffee and saddle leather. Very dry, round supple palate with somewhat elevated acidity. Good spicy, cherry, plum, gamey, peppery flavours with a touch of coffee vanilla. Good fruit core but could use a bit softer acidity.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Dominio de la Peseta Roble 2003
Alicante, Valencia and Murcia, SpainBig peppery, black cherry, licorice, spicy, smoky black olive aromas with a meaty, floral note. Smooth, dry, round palate with light, rustic tannins. Lots of black cherry, plum, spicy, peppery, licorice flavours with a cola and game note. A touch dry and young with fine fruit intensity and length. Good value, worth trying.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Podere Guado Al Melo Bolgheri Rosso 2002
Bolgheri, Tuscany, ItalyOpen spicy, black olive, cassis, gamey, smoky, tobacco leaf aromas. Dry, round, soft palate with light tannins. Peppery, spicy, tobacco, earthy, coffee flavours with cherry, plum and cassis on the finish. Elegant but shows some dryness and acidity. Try with grilled meat or osso buco or age 1-2 years.Prices:| BC | $46.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Vina Albali Gran Reserva 1997
Valdepeñas, Castilla-La Mancha, SpainAged 24 months in American oak. Tobacco, peppery, spicy, saddle leather, cherry jam and floral aromas with a strong streak of vanilla, ash and game. Soft, round, smooth and elegant but quite rich. Spicy, black cherry jam, earthy, licorice, tobacco and vanilla flavours with a meaty, smoky oak, maraschino finish. Very good intensity, stylish and ready to drink. Definitely value for your taste buds.Prices:| BC | $18.52 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Vina Albali Reserva 1999
Valdepeñas, Castilla-La Mancha, SpainCherry, spicy, cigar ash, leather, vanilla, licorice aromas with a floral, violet note. Soft, round, dry and elegant with earthy, bright cherry, spicy, black raspberry tobacco flavours. Fresh finish, good fruit and ready to go. Good value.Prices:| BC | $13.67 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Onix Evolucio 2001
Priorato, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainVery ripe, pruny, peppery, spicy, coffee, stewed plum cherry jam nose with some vanilla and tobacco but a bit hot. Rich, round, dry and slightly tannic with good acidity. Very earthy, licorice, plum, cherry jam, tobacco flavours with a big vanilla, oaky, raspberry mineral finish. A bit disjointed at this stage, needs 1-3 years to integrate the varieties and oak.Prices:| BC | $29.75 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Codorníu Blanc de Blancs NV
Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainThe aroma has immediate mass appeal with its ripe, baked apple fruit nose. In the mouth it's smooth, soft and creamy with a fine balance of acidity and a dry, nutty finish. A versatile, multi-dimensional sparkler to accompany fine food.Prices:| BC | $15.95 | 750ml |
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12 January 2005
92PTS
Mazzei Castello di Fonterutoli Chianti Classico 2000
Tuscany, ItalyPlum jam, prune, gamey, tarry, vanilla, chocolate, saddle leather aromas with some spicy, pepper, cherry streaks throughout. Ripe, rich, round and dry with good smooth tannins. Well balanced with chocolate, tobacco, smoky vanilla, gamey, rootsy black cherry flavours. A fine wine that should improve for 3-5 years more. Has finesse and fruit.Prices:| BC | $69.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $69.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Carmen Carmenère 2002
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileBig minty, leafy, smoky, dill, weedy cassis nose. Dry, round, soft palate with minty, dill, green olive, spicy, smoky cherry flavours. Good balance and supple but very leafy, cool style.Prices:| AB | $13.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Carmen Reserve Petite Sirah 2002
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileVery strong cassis, spicy, vanilla, cedar, cherry, peppery, minty nose with some licorice and saddle leather. Rich, round, dry and supple with spicy, vanilla, cedar, licorice, cassis, minty flavours and smoky, cherry, tobacco finish. Good structure and intensity but a bit green on the fruit. Like a cross of cab, merlot and carmenère.Prices:| AB | $23.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Elephant Island Orchard Wines Crabapple Wine 2003
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVery pale orange rose colour. Minty, mineral, honey, spicy, apple aromas. Round, elegant, slightly sweet style with good acidity balance. Zingy green apple, mineral, baked pear and nalgene flavours. Crisp finish keeps it bright..Prices:| BC | $15.95 | 375ml |
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86PTS
Elephant Island Orchard Wines Apricot Dessert Wine 2003
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAromas of apricot - dried, fresh and canned with some egg yolk and mineral. Sweet, round, light bodied palate with high acidity. Fresh dried apricot flavours again with a green apple, mineral, slightly tinny canned note on the finish. Acidity is a bit high and crisp.Prices:| BC | $15.95 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Château Val Joanis Réserve Les Aubépines (Blanc) 2002
Côtes du Lubéron, Provence, Sud de France, FranceSpicy, ginger, floral, honey, lees and melon aromas. Dry, round, elegant style with a slight oiliness. Mineral, citrus peel, ginger, honey, buttery quince flavours with a touch of marzipan and lemon oil. Well made but an unusual combination of flavours.Prices:| BC | $28.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Château Val Joanis Réserve Les Griottes (Rouge) 2001
Côtes du Lubéron, Provence, Sud de France, FranceNice peppery, spicy, meaty, smoky, licorice nose with plum and black cherry jam. Dry and round with a fairly rich body and light tannins. Earthy, cedar, licorice, black cherry, raspberry fruit and a smoky, spicy finish. A bit dry but has good fruit intensity. Try with duck or grilled lamb sausage.Prices:| BC | $31.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.85 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Château Val Joanis (Rouge) 2001
Côtes du Lubéron, Provence, Sud de France, FranceBlack cherry, raspberry, gamey, smoky resin aromas with a mineral, leather streak. Dry, round, elegant style with soft, light tannins. Good spicy, gamey, licorice, cherry mineral flavours. Solid red with a touch of acidity showing. Try with ribs and grilled meat.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Château Val Joanis (Blanc) 2003
Côtes du Lubéron, Provence, Sud de France, FranceFloral, melon, mineral, lemon oil aromas. Soft, round, dry palate with mineral, baked pear, spicy, buttery flavours with a touch of honey and flowers. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
M. Chapoutier Belleruche Côtes du Rhône Rouge 2002
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceCherry jam, mineral, earthy, light spice aromas with a strong carbonic fruit streak. Dry, round, slightly lean style with black cherry, mineral, licorice, cedar flavours. A bit lean but has some good fruit at the finish.Prices:| BC | $19.45 | 750ml |
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10 January 2005
87PTS
Justin Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Edna Valley, San Luis Obispo County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe warmest winter since 1996 mark the beginning of the 2003 vintage and early bud was followed by more warm weather in spring and summer and an early harvest in mid-September. The majority of the fruit comes out of the Edna Valley. The style is tight and grassy but we found it lacking intensity of fruit flavour. There are mineral lees and grassy notes but it's a little to dry for most palates.Prices:| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
EOS Sauvignon Blanc Brothers Ranch Vineyard 4 Block 8 2003
Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo County, Central Coast, California, United StatesSoft attractive spicy fruit nose. Quite a rich buttery mid-palate and finish but far too much wood for contemporary sauvignon blanc drinkers and in the end it is simply one dimensional. There's nothing wrong with the wine but it's old school and not really built for food.Prices:| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Brander Sauvignon Blanc 2004
Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe regular Brander has a small amount of barrel fermented juice and a small amount of sémillon blended in to better craft its traditional style. The nose is a mix of mineral and citrus fruit with just a hint of spice. Cool green apple skin. The flavours are green apple skin and a touch of sweetens round out the finish. Very solid.Prices:| US | $12.00 | 750ml |
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08 January 2005
91PTS
Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir 2002
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThere's no mistaking this as pinot on the nose thanks to its spicy black raspberry fruit nose that jumps from the glass. The fruit is plummy and succulent, the textures rich and silky bolstered by its 14 plus degrees of alcohol. Still it's in balance and very rich. Delicious intoxicating heady New World pinot to drink for the fun of it. Well done.Prices:| US | $37.00 | 750ml |
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07 January 2005
87PTS
Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Pinot Gris 2003
Eden Valley, South Australia, AustraliaVery mineral, slate, pear, melon aromas with a touch of honeycomb. Round, fresh, medium bodied with nice acidity. Slightly oily with mineral, citrus, apple skin, pear and melon flavours. Tasty and solid.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Angove's Clare Valley Riesling 2002
Eden Valley, South Australia, AustraliaBig mineral, slate-y, floral, Vaseline, citrus aromas with a touch of clover. Round, elegant, slightly oily texture but elegant. Nice mineral, spicy, green apple, citrus, pear flavours with a slightly smoky, floral finish. Very nicely made although not your regular German-style riesling with the elevated mineral notes and dryer finish but this will well received by aficionados.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
| NB | $22.95 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Van Loveren Sémillon 2004
Robertson, Breede River Valley, South AfricaGrassy, mineral, green apple skin, lemon oil aromas. Simple, round, dry and slightly acidic with lemon, grassy, mineral, herbal flavours. Your basic straight-up sémillon made for oyster and assorted other shellfish.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
The Little King Sparkling Apple Wine 2003
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada'The Little King' is comprised of an apple-base wine with a raspberry dosage. Look for a light cherry rose colour with some foamy mousse. It has attractive cherry, floral, mineral, baked red apple aromas with a hint of licorice. The entry is foamy with crisp acidity and floral, sour cherry, red apple fruit streaked with mineral, red licorice flavours. Refreshing and unique with a tart, baked apple finish.Prices:| BC | $21.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Lindemans Bin 95 Sauvignon Blanc 2004
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaAnother good example of what a screwcap can do for an ordinary white. Love the (fresh) smoky, floral, mineral, gooseberry, citrus aromas you wouldn't get with a cork closure. Round, delicate and balanced with mineral, grapefruit rind, smoky mineral, grassy flavours. Simple, fresh and tasty for seafood. Good value.Prices:| BC | $11.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.95 | 750ml |
| SK | $10.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $10.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.45 | 750ml |
| NS | $11.95 | 750ml |
| NF | $12.25 | 750ml |
| NB | $10.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Domaine de Molines Viognier Réserve 2003
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceHand picked and partially barrel fermented by Michel Gassier this is a spicy, ginger, mineral scented white with floral, honey, apricot skin aromas. The textures are round the style is fresh and crisp with mineral, oily, ginger, honey, citrus peel flavours and a touch of lees. The finish is dry, crisp and spicy - will be a good match for sautéed scallops or a light chicken curry but might accompany pork also. Good value.Prices:| BC | $23.55 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Terra Andina Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Region del Valle Central, ChileSmoky mineral, grapefruit rind, grassy, garlic lees aromas. Very fresh, round, crisp, moderately dry style with nice grapefruit, mineral, grassy, gooseberry, smoky lees flavours. Quite crisp on the finish, a fine match for mussels and clams.Prices:| BC | $12.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Batasiolo Bosc Dla Rei Moscato d'Asti 2003
Piedmont, ItalySpritzy in the glass with an attractive floral, spicy, perfumed nosed streaked with green apple, nectarine skin and candy aromas. Fresh, crisp, somewhat sweet and fizzy entry with good peach, mineral, spicy, green apple flavours. Not too sweet this is a fun, light after dessert wine style or a mid-afternoon summer sipper.Prices:| BC | $16.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Pinnacle Ice Cider 2002
Quebec, CanadaMineral, honey, baked red apple, spicy, heavy perfume aromas. It's round, rich, elegant and crisp on the palate with moderate sweetness. Lots of spicy, mineral, baked red apple, honey flavours and a crisp, clean finish. An amazing 5.5 kg of apples are needed to make one bottle but if you like apples this is the real thing.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Pinnacle Ice Cider 2003
Quebec, CanadaClean fresh attractive spicy, ginger, baked apple nose with a hint of honey. Crisp, clean, round and elegant with nice acid and sugar balance. Similar spicy, clove, ginger, mineral, baked apple, floral flavours. Fresher and spicier than the 02 for those who like to drink their wine young.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Valley of the Moon Pinot Blanc 2002
Sonoma County, California, United StatesMineral, buttery, baked apple, melon aromas with a light candied floral note. Round, medium weight, slightly oily texture with mineral, baked pear, slate, citrus rind and marzipan flavours with a touch of rose petal. Sound if a touch flat on the finish.Prices:| Estimated BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Kenwood Vintage White 2003
Sonoma County, California, United StatesLight mineral, floral, melon aromas. Round, soft, fresh easy-drinking style with baked apple, mineral, citrus melon flavours. Well made, simple sipper. Solid buy in the US.Prices:| Estimated BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Sumac Ridge Pinot Blanc Black Sage Vineyard 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaApple, mineral, toasty oak vanilla, smoky butter aromas. Round, soft, ripe and elegant with an oily texture. Big buttery, oaky vanilla, butterscotch, spicy melon lees flavours. Not much fruit but lots of oak and butter that will attract those who like the richer fatter style, almost chardonnay like.Prices:| BC | $14.45 | 750ml |
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06 January 2005
87PTS
Moillard Mercurey 1999
Mercurey, Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, FranceLicorice, plum, spicy, compost aromas mark the nose with a dash of raspberry. Dry, round, soft entry with spicy, clove black raspberry, rhubarb and cedar-y earth flavours. Good overall balance with some acidity and dryness on the finish. Ordinary French pinot.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Dominio de Atauta 2001
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainLocated at the eastern edge of the Ribera del Duero appellation, the town of Atauta is situated above a remote canyon planted with ancient, un-grafted, pre-phylloxera tempranillo vines up to 120 years old. Look for peppery, black cherry jam, plum licorice and gamey, smoky vanilla aromas with some orange rind and leafy tobacco in the background. It's moderately rich, round, soft and supple with grainy, dry tannins and very ripe black cherry, coffee, plum and spicy vanilla flavours. A bit young with tannins to shed over the next few years. Grown according to biodynamic principles using no chemicals or fertilizers.Prices:| BC | $57.95 | 750ml |
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05 January 2005
87PTS
Alfiero Boffa Gran Buchet Pinot Nero 2003
Valtellina, Lombardy, ItalyCherry, floral, candy cane, taffy apple aromas. Round, fresh, soft and smooth with good acidity and a touch of sweetness. Ripe cherry, strawberry, minty, taffy apple and peach flavours. Good solid rose.Prices:| BC | $21.90 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Virna Barolo Cannubi Boschis 2000
Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyRipe black cherry, spicy nose with aromatic tarry, vanilla, tobacco, Christmas cake aromas. It is dry, round and rich with supple textures and ripe, grainy tannins. Fine black cherry, pepper, coffee flavours mix with spicy, orange peel, tar, vanilla, mint and smoke. A well balanced ripe attractive Barolo that will age for 3-10 years. Look for this at the Vancouver International Wine Festival in 2005. An excellent value from an outstanding year.Prices:| BC | $64.65 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Poggio ai Merli di Castellare 2001
Tuscany, ItalyLook for a big spicy, chocolate, prune nose with black cherry, gamey, vanilla, Christmas cake and dry mint and sage notes. Definitely the dry Tuscan style here with grainy tannins. Big Christmas cake, orange peel, chocolate, peppery, prune, black cherry flavours mix with smoke, mint and caraway in the finish. Dry, tight style with lots of intensity - will need 3-5 years to fully develop.Prices:| BC | $100.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kenwood Yulupa Merlot 2000
California, United StatesTypical earthy, tobacco leaf, pruny notes mixed with saddle leather and resiny mint aromas. Fairly elegant style with dry but light tannins. Spicy, cedar-y, chocolate, prune, leafy, mint flavours. Ready to go; serve with grilled meat.Prices:| Estimated BC | $22.45 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.20 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.45 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Terra Noble Vineyards Merlot Gran Reserva 2002
Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileSpicy, smoky, peppery, cherry, cassis aromas with some chocolate mint. Rich, round, slightly dry entry with grainy tannins. Smoky, spicy, chocolate, black cherry, minty vanilla flavours with some cigar on the finish. Fairly beefy style, needs a year or two.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Ferrari-Carano Merlot 2001
Sonoma County, California, United StatesSpicy, peppery, cherry/chocolate aromas with some plum pudding and mint. Rich, round, concentrated and dry with supple tannins. Lots of spicy, smoky, chocolate, resin, tobacco and black cherry flavours with a minty, pudding finish. Good ripeness if a bit warm and chunky. Will improve over the next 2-3 years.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $33.50 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Kloovenberg Merlot 2002
Swartland, Coastal Region, South AfricaDry cedar, shoe leather, pruny, minty nose with tobacco and rubbery oak aromas. Dry, hot, lean and a bit old style with strong vanilla, buttery, peppery, smoky, tobacco, leather flavours. Quite hot and tart on the finish. Classic South African rd wine style that is slightly out of synch with modern tastes.Prices:| AB | $21.50 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tommasi Merlot Le Prunée 2002
Garda, Verona, Veneto, ItalyTobacco, earthy, spicy plum aromas with a touch of mint and pepper. Soft, round, dry, elegant style with plum, pruny, spicy, tobacco, licorice earthy flavours with a touch of cedar. Nice soft textures for current drinking.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Rodney Strong Merlot 2001
Sonoma County, California, United StatesSpicy, smoky, vanilla, cherry jam nose with barnyard, tobacco aromas. The styling is soft and round (merlot) but there is some elegance too. The flavours mix black cherry, vanilla, smoky, chocolate, cedar and mint. A touch dry but attractive for current drinking.Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.45 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.65 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Soaring Eagle Merlot Limited Edition 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBright spicy vanilla, smoky cedar nose with streaks of black cherry and shoe polish. Soft, round, supple style with black cherry, spicy, vanilla flavours mixed with smoky resin, peppery mint with a touch of heat on the finish and light, dry tannins. Good effort.Prices:| BC | $19.40 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Lang Vineyards Merlot 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMinty, light leafy, tobacco, cherry, spicy, coriander aromas. Dry, slightly lean entry with light tannins. Cherry, tobacco, saddle leather, earthy spice flavours. Somewhat woody and tart on the finish but may improve over the next year or two.Prices:| BC | $19.40 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Carmen Merlot Reserve 2002
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileMinty, spicy, cherry, sappy, cassis aromas with some leather. Soft, round, dry, supple style with spicy, minty, black cherry, leafy, chocolate flavours with a saddle leather tobacco note. Warm, slightly dry finish but very sound.Prices:| BC | $23.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Kenwood Merlot Jack London Vineyard 2001
Sonoma Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesPleasant chocolate, vanilla, spicy, cherry/plum notes with tobacco leaf and clove aromas. Ripe, round, soft and elegant with light tannins. The flavours mix fresh cherry, plum and spicy vanilla with cedar-y, Christmas pudding. It finishes elegant with dry, minty, cedar-y caraway notes.Prices:| Estimated BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kenwood Merlot Reserve Massara 2000
Sonoma Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesSpicy, dill, caraway, smoky, black cherry, mint aromas. Very dry, round, elegant style with cedar, mint, black cherry, caraway and spicy vanilla flavours. Fine elegance but it seems to lack a bit of ripeness and concentration. Drink now and over the next year or so.Prices:| Estimated BC | $31.65 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kenwood Merlot 2001
Sonoma County, California, United StatesKenwood Vineyards creates its Sonoma County merlot from vineyards located in the Sonoma, Dry Creek and Alexander Valleys. Look for a pruny, spicy, earthy, tobacco, coriander nose with a touch of barnyard. It' is soft, dry and elegant with cedar-y, chocolate, minty, dry earth flavours streaked with prunes and vanilla flavours. Easy style but no a great deal of fruit definition.Prices:| AB | $24.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $26.20 | 750ml |
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88PTS
McManis Family Vineyards Merlot 2003
California, United StatesCedar-y, spicy, ripe cherry nose with plum and a touch of chocolate and vanilla. Dry, soft, round style with light tannins. Lots of chocolate, black cherry, vanilla, spicy, clove and smoke flavours. A bit hot and dry on the finish with lots of vanilla cherry cola. Drink now with a veal chop or wait a year or so. Fine, solid all-round merlot.Prices:| BC | $22.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.90 | 750ml |
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04 January 2005
89PTS
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards Kerner Icewine 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTypically floral the '03 kerner has richer undertones of baked apples and peaches. The entry is round and sweet with soft acidity but it's not cloying. The finish is peaches and apples with a small streak of mineral. It's not too big and hence ready to sip now. Good value. Tinhorn suggests fresh fruits, cheese or a lighter pastry to accompany it or in small amounts with a rich pate, such as foie gras before dinner.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 200ml |
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02 January 2005
87PTS
La Noble Chardonnay 2003
l'Aude, Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceRich round supple entry with a subdued Euro fruit nose. There's a richness and warmth on the palate stemming from the wines southern France origins although it is fairly light in extract. Look for honeysuckle and white peach fruit flavours and a smooth finish. Solid everyday French Chardonnay.Prices:| BC | $15.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Flagstone Noon Gun 2004
Western Cape, South AfricaAnother 'everything but the kitchen sink' white blend made from six grapes. The nose is fresh and cool with a hint of menthol. On the palate it refreshes with limey, fresh fruit flavours. It finishes drier than most of its peers in the price range leaving it in a better position to accompany a wide variety of dishes ― not just spicy Asian. Solid effort at a fair price. The blend is: riesling 33%, chenin blanc 33%, chardonnay 17%, pinot blanc - sauvignon blanc 7%, sémillon 2%.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Freixenet Ash Tree Estate Chardonnay Macabeo 2003
SpainFreixenet has come a long way from its 1861 beginnings in 'La Freixeneda' ― a place where ash trees grow. Its latest series of still wine honour the past yet taste very much like the future. Look for a light, bright zippy white with quiet fruit and lemon/almond undercurrents. Grilled lemon chicken would be a perfect match or a wide variety of classic Spanish tapas. Good valuePrices:| BC | $11.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Little Boomey Chardonnay 2003
Orange, New South Wales, AustraliaSimple fresh juicy inexpensive Oz chardonnay along the lines of Bin 65. Melon and apricot mark the nose and the flavour of what could be a solid summer sipper. Still no screwcap in B.C. - it seems the easier it is to open the more it would get opened.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Wild Horse Canyon Left Bank White 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaI wouldn't call a riesling, bacchus, perle of casaba, ehrenfelser and maybe more blend a "Left Bank White" but I'm sure the Mission Hill marketing gurus had a plan. Hopefully it was to get you thinking about clean fresh easy drinking white +++ the signature of winemaker John Simes. Look for zippy limey fruit and clean fresh finish with some residual sugar but it all works. Where Wild Horse Canyon fits in is anyone's guess. Love the package but it should have come out in screwcap to hammer home the easy sipping part. Good value.Prices:| BC | $10.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $10.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $10.99 | 750ml |
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February 2005