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Tastings: May 2006
30 May 2006
91PTS
Marimar Estate Chardonnay Don Miguel Vineyard 2002
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe Torres chardonnay grapes, all whole-clustered pressed, come from the Don Miguel vineyard in the western hills of Sonoma (Russian River, Green Valley) and are a mix of See, Rued and Spring Mountain chardonnay clones. Look for a nutty, creamy lees (all barrel-fermented) nose streaked with baked pear, floral, vanilla and citrus rind. It's soft on the palate with peachy creamy lees and baked apple honey flavours. Intense California chardonnay bordering on the old style.Prices:| BC | $49.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $41.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Torres Vina Esmeralda 2005
Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainEsmeralda dates back to 1961 when Torres began to experiment with European varieties not previously grown in Catalonia especially in the mountainous area of the Upper Penedès. It is always intense and floral on the nose mixing mineral, lemon oil and spicy, nectarine skin notes. This is the original summer sipper conceived by Miguel Torres long before the style was in fashion. This is a bright zesty white with lemon lime, lychee, green apple, quince and fruit cocktail undertones. Delicate yet capable of standing up to powerful spicy dishes. Try with calamari or mussels. The blend as always remains an 85/15 moscatel/gewürztraminer mix.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| US | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Torres Nerola Xarel.lo 2004
Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainNerola is a new wine produced by the next generation of Torres winemakers namely, Mireia Torres Maczassek, the daughter of Miguel Torres. Mireia says, "In ancient mythology, Nerola was a Mediterranean garden whose natural conditions were so exceptional that the wine produced from its vines was said to bestow immortality." The blend is mostly Xarel.lo with some Garnacha Blanca and immortality aside this is a terrific wine. The style is aromatic with hints of spice, butter, vanilla, peach and anise on the nose. On the palate it is fruity mixing citrus flavours, white flowers, butter, vanilla and orange rind. There is just enough oak to fill out the mid-palate and add to a creamy smooth youthful finish. Well done. Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Torres Gran Coronas Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainTorres and the Coronas label are well know to even the casual Spanish wine drinker but the Gran Coronas Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva is a jump up in weight and style and worth the detour. Gran Cornas was originally known in Canada as Don Miguel (the monopoly did not want anyone to confuse it with the runaway success of the bull-toting Coronas label) is elegant red wine with a structure and style rarely seen in the New World, today. The blend is 85/15 cabernet sauvignon and tempranillo and it's all estate grown fruit. The nose projects a fragrant juicy cassis, black olive, tobacco and vanilla nose that is carried thorough on the palate with just a modicum of toasted oak and chocolate. Again, wine for a variety of foods. Love the integration of fruit and alcohol.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
| US | $20.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Torres Celeste 2003
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainProduction is lowly creeping up to 20,000 cases as Celeste begins to hit its stride. Torres in Ribera de Duero has given us a slightly brawnier red wine than you see in Priorat or Penedès. This is just a baby but it's showing meaty, black cherry, tobacco, briary, smoky chocolate aromas. The flavours are earthy and understated with coffee, garrigue, cherry and tobacco undercurrents. Dry, elegant and warm it needs time but you could drink it now with roasted lamb. It is 100 percent tinto fino or Ribera tempranillo. Prices:| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| US | $22.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Jean Leon Gran Reserva 1997
Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainThe "Jean Leon" pago or vineyard is a respectable 150 ha of land (of which 100 is arable) that was planted in 1969 to cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot and chardonnay, all originating from cuttings of Lafite-Rothschild, La Lagune and Corton Charlemagne. In 1997 the Jean Leon Gran Reserva benefits from a shift to more French oak. The nose shows smoky saddle leather with dark fruit, meaty, cassis, tapenase aromas with some spice, earth and dried leaves. Already showing some fine bottle nuances. On the palate it is fresh and well structured with dark fruit and earthy leathery undertones with some cedar, black olive and cassis. It's 100% Cabernet Sauvignon selected off the "La Scala" block. The finish is long with hints of cocoa and tobacco.Prices:| BC | $44.95 | 750ml |
| US | $35.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Torres Grans Muralles 2001
Conca de Barbera, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainGran Muralles is a different concept at Torres. It's a blend of ancient Catalan grape varieties including monastrell, garnacha tinta, garró, samsó mazuelo and cariñena. The plan is to make a very traditional red that respect its Mediterranean's roots. Gran Muralles is a single pago (vineyard) over slate (llicorella) soils all within site of the medieval walls of the Cistercian monastery of Poblet. Look for a deep brooding red with a huge peppery, gamey, coffee, licorice, black cherry jam, mint and orange peel nose with flecks of red fruits and savoury spices. On the palate the wine is very rich, fat, dry but supple with excellent intensity. Full flavoured with cassis, chocolate, peppery, black raspberry, minty, black cherry, meaty vanilla flavours with a dried fig and orange peel finish. A powerful, fruity wine with some warmth but finesse and length. This is a good bet for the wine cellar to drink through 2020. Perfect for game, lamb, roast beef and more. This makes one realize that there are still many old varieties worth exploring.Prices:| BC | $84.99 | 750ml |
| US | $105.00 | 750ml |
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29 May 2006
88PTS
Torres De Casta Rosé 2005
Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainNow available in screwcap the De Casta rosado a blend of garnacha tinta and cariñena, has a light cherry colour and a wonderful clean fresh mineral, cherry, black raspberry nose flecked with almond, aromas. Ripe, round, crisp and balanced with a touch of sweetness. Cherry, buttery, raspberry, floral flavours. Good intensity, finesse and flavour profile, a great value and tasty to boot. The Torres folks suggest you drink it with recipes that use tomato or tomato sauce, including Italian pasta.Prices:| BC | $12.86 | 750ml |
| US | $10.00 | 750ml |
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28 May 2006
85PTS
Louis Jadot Rosé de Marsannay Domaine Clair Daü 2001
Burgundy, FrancePale salmon color. Cherry, floral, celery salt, earthy aromas. Dry, round, elegant style but light and crisp. Spicy, sour cherry, grapefruit, citrus and mineral flavours. Not a lot of fruit, designed for a hot day's picnic with a high acid finish.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Glen Carlou Syrah 2004
Paarl, Coastal Region, South AfricaSmoky, peppery, spicy, saddle leather, gamey, licorice root aromas with some black cherry, plum and meaty notes. Rich, ripe, round and soft with supple tannins and a bit of heat. Very spicy, black licorice, tobacco, leather, black cherry, peppery plum flavours with a warm, smoky, savoury, poultry spice finish. Well balanced despite some warmth. You can drink it now but will it will improve over the next few years.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Mateus Tempranillo Rosé 2005
Douro - Bairrada, PortugalLight raspberry colour. Floral, perfumed, citrus, cherry, peach and incense nose. Fresh, soft, round, moderately sweet style with raspberry Kool-Aid, cherry, citrus, earthy tobacco flavours. Clean, fresh, picnic wine or on the afternoon deck. A bit sweet overall.Prices:| BC | $9.49 | 750ml |
| SK | $10.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $8.45 | 750ml |
| ON | $7.45 | 750ml |
| QC | $9.55 | 750ml |
| NB | $9.45 | 750ml |
| NS | $10.45 | 750ml |
| PE | $10.50 | 750ml |
| NF | $9.54 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Les Sentius 2002
Priorato, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainA first release. Very spicy, cardamom, floral, tobacco, cedar, cherry, gamey leather nose with a touch of smoky earth. Round, dry, slightly tight palate but elegant and warm. Peppery, clove, cedar, smoky, rootsy, black cherry and cassis flavours with some olive and garrigue on the finish. A bit young, should improve over the next 1-3 years. Definitely Euro-style but a good match for grilled meat.Prices:| BC | $39.95 | 750ml |
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27 May 2006
85PTS
Mateus Rosé NV
Douro - Bairrada, PortugalAttractive light raspberry red colour. Slightly spritzy with spicy, mineral, clove, cherry, gamey sausage nose. Round, fresh and elegant with some spritz and a bit of sweetness. Light cherry, citrus, earthy, vegetal, rootsy, gamey flavours and a slightly sweet finish.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $11.73 | 750ml |
| MB | $9.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.45 | 750ml |
| QC | $9.50 | 750ml |
| NB | $9.45 | 750ml |
| NS | $10.45 | 750ml |
| PE | $10.50 | 750ml |
| NF | $9.54 | 750ml |
| NL | $13.60 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.99 | 1500ml |
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22 May 2006
86PTS
Beato Bartolomeo Breganze Vespaiolo Extra Dry Vino Spumante NV
Veneto, ItalyFloral, peach skin, perfumy, light earth aromas. Round, fresh, delicate style with light mousse. Apple core, pear skin, perfumy, peach flavours. Simple, easy drinking style for any occasion.Prices:| BC | $21.80 | 750ml |
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19 May 2006
87PTS
Pascual Toso Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaClean floral, melon, passion fruit, grapefruit, kiwi aromas with a hint of butter and vanilla. Round, full, slightly fat entry with lime, passion fruit, butter, melon, vanilla, bell pepper flavours. Good solid fruit concentration. Serve with a variety of seafood. Fine value.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.99 | 750ml |
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17 May 2006
87PTS
Blasted Church Merlot 2004
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPlenty of black raspberry and cranberry notes on the nose; almost Oz like. Slightly underripe style that has a smooth entry with cedar-y, coffee, smoky, minty black cherry and vanilla fruit. A solid effort and no doubt will progress in the bottle. Now under screwcap.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Borsao Selección Tinto Joven 2004
Campo de Borja, Aragon, SpainThe '04 blend is 70/10/20 garnacha, tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon from Campo de Borja in the North of Spain. Earthy licorice notes mark the nose with flecks of black fruit and orange rind. Bright acidity and lovely round textures in the mouth. Fairly warm (read alcoholic) and spicy but otherwise tasty red. Serve liberally around the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Castello Banfi Col-di-Sasso Cabernet Sauvignon & Sangiovese 2004
Tuscany, ItalyCherry, gamey, spicy, sausage, floral, cassis aromas. Soft, round, supple, easy drinking dry red. Look for licorice, smoky, cherry, cassis, and peppery, minty flavours. Simple, smooth style but youthful with some light, dry tannins showing. Good for grilled meats and pasta.Prices:| BC | $14.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.95 | 750ml |
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16 May 2006
88PTS
La Frenz Viognier 2005
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVery spicy, peach, orange, floral, mineral, citrus rind aromas. Sweet, oily, warm entry with bright zesty acidity. Big honey, grapefruit rind flavours with mineral, sausage and floral undertones. A fine summer sipper but the level of ripeness calls for deep chilling and or serving it with hot, spicy, Thai food. This is fun to sip.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kim Crawford Small Parcel SP Merlot Te Awanga Vineyard 2004
Hawkes Bay, North Island, New ZealandVery smoky, peppery, resiny, black olive, gamey, saddle leather aromas with some cedar and black cherry jam. Rich, round, dry, elegant palate but very dry with some cedar-y tannins. Mineral, smoky, herbal, resiny, vanilla, peppery, tobacco, olive flavours with some black cherry on the finish. Needs some time to smooth out but definitely on the lean side.Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
B3 Chardonnay Three Bear Ranch 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaButtery, peach, canned pineapple nose with honey, vanilla and floral, butterscotch notes. It's round, dry and slightly oily on the palate with dry oak, mineral, lees, butterscotch, canned pineapple and green apple flavours. The finish mixes vanilla and lime rind notes in a fresh, clean inviting style.Prices:| BC | $24.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
B3 Merlot Three Bear Ranch 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCedar-y, resin, minty, tobacco leaf, saddle leather, licorice root aromas. Dry, elegant, slightly lean entry with savoury, tobacco leaf, mint, black olive, resin, smoky oak flavours. A bit lean and green in the finish but it has some cool-climate merlot elegance.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Santa Julia Viognier 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaVery floral, spicy, buttery, mineral, honey, sausage aromas. Ripe, round, fresh, crisp palate with a slight oiliness. Good mineral, honey, butter, citrus, spicy, creamsicle flavours. Good intensity and balance if a touch hot. Great value.Prices:| BC | $10.90 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Rodney Strong Merlot 2002
Sonoma County, California, United StatesPeppery, warm tobacco, black olive, smoky, vanilla, cedar, mint, black cherry nose. Very dry, elegant, tight palate with some chewy, lean tannin. Very spicy, peppery, herbal, smoky, tobacco, cherry, tart plum flavours with a warm, smoky oak, leather, tart finish. Somewhat unbalanced and lean, needs food.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $24.95 | 750ml |
| US | $19.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Marrenon Merlot 2004
Vin de Pays de Vaucluse, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceA second shipment of the 2004 has arrived under screwcap and as predicted is sporting a bit more fruit and showing a little less resiny characters. Still quite spicy with a cassis, licorice root and garrigue nose. Lean with spicy cherry, tomato leaf flavours. Simple straight up merlot that could use decanting for 30 minutes for best results.Prices:| BC | $10.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
CedarCreek Chardonnay Platinum Reserve 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen inviting creamy lees and green apple nose with hazelnut, vanilla, floral, citrus aromas and just a touch of butter and peach. Rich, elegant, dry palate with good vanilla, spicy lees, nutty, citrus, baked apple, butterscotch, melon flavours. Very good balance and acidity with some finesse and integration. Will improve over the next 1-2 years. Fine effort, best yet from winemaker Tom Di Bello.Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Blue Mountain Reserve Chardonnay 2003
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy lees, mineral, butter, dried green apple, flinty nose with a touch of honey and hazelnut. Very dry, tight palate with good acidity. Buttery, mineral, baked green apple, leesy, vanilla, pear flavours. Restrained style with good acidity. Will improve over the next 1-2 years. Good value here.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Delicato California Merlot 2004
California, United StatesDeep colour with a strong earthy cherry tobacco notes on the nose. Very soft and sweet on entry with smoky cedar and black cherry fruit flavours. Simple soft round and easy drinking. Solid introductory merlot you can pour liberally around the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.60 | 750ml |
| NF | $13.91 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Smoking Loon Viognier 2004
California, United StatesBig honey, floral, butter, quince, citrus, ginger nose with a touch of sausage meat. Soft, ripe, round, dry palate with ginger, mineral, honey, butter, and citrus rind flavours with a touch of melon on the finish. A bit warm on the finish but a bit more balance than past editions. Solid value and the style is getting better every year.Prices:| BC | $16.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.49 | 750ml |
| SK | $16.55 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.55 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Ferrari-Carano Merlot 2003
Sonoma County, California, United StatesBig cherry, cassis, minty, peppery, spicy, licorice root, clove, cardamom nose with some smoky vanilla. Dry, round, supple, elegant style with some light, dry tannins. Very spicy, cardamom, floral, black raspberry, plum, vanilla, smoky flavours with a touch of grille and herbs. Needs 2-4 years but fine concentration.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $32.99 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Pedestal Merlot 2003
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesMichel Rolland in Washington is not un-like Rolland in Argentina. Big smoky, savoury, gamey, peppery, black cherry jam, garrigue nose with saddle leather, tobacco and black olive aromas. Incredibly rich, fat, warm, concentrated wine with ripe, grainy, grippy tannins but the key is with lively acidity. Lots of smoky vanilla, black cherry, plum jam, floral, spicy, cardamom flavours finish long mixing mint, resin and espresso. Big ripe, fruity style with oak but has finesse and balance and acidity. Will improve over the next 2-5 years. This will give many a chateau in Pomerol a run for its money.Prices:| BC | $84.99 | 750ml |
| US | $55.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Moillard Viognier Huges le Juste 2004
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceCorked, retaste. Past efforts have been good.Prices:| BC | $11.75 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Hillside Merlot Reserve 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPale red colour. The nose is an aromatic mix of peppery resiny notes with gamy stewed tomato and cedar undercurrents. Somewhat dry and earthy on entry with more cedar tobacco and earthy tomato notes on the palate. Dry finish. Simple herbaceous merlot that does not deliver for the price.Prices:| BC | $29.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Red Rooster Merlot Grand Reserve 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLove the dark colour and this year the nose is more muted showing earthy plum jam notes but no cooked flavours. It is dry and rich on entry with plenty of peppery black cherry and resiny fruit flavours. The finish is long and warm with considerable young tannins yet to disperse. Cleaner and more interesting than most previous versions. It should improve in the bottle.Prices:| BC | $29.90 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bonterra Vineyards Viognier 2004
Mendocino County, California, United StatesRipe peach, honey, floral, orange rind, spicy sausage nose with some cream and baked pear. Rich, round, fresh, slightly oily style with a hint of sweetness. Nice spicy, ginger, mineral, honey, buttery, sausage flavours with a bit of lime rind on the finish. Good effort, its organic and the price id down $3. Try with spicy Asian dishes.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
The Little Penguin Merlot 2003
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaMuch like the previous year, the nose is sweet with spicy, leafy, peppery notes and undertones of cassis. The entry is soft and slippery with more sweet plum flavoured fruit and some leafy, cedar/ tobacco flavours in the finish. Very commercial for the price.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $12.49 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.59 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $12.99 | 750ml |
| NF | $12.98 | 750ml |
| NB | $12.99 | 750ml |
| PEI | $14.12 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Sebastiani Merlot 2002
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesBig spicy, vanilla, black cherry, compote, peppery, briary, espresso, cardamom nose. Ripe, rich, round, supple but slightly chunky with a touch of sweetness. Cedar, black cherry jam, floral, chocolate, peppery, vanilla, smoky, tobacco flavours. Fat, somewhat chunky style with good intensity. Needs 1-2 years.Prices:| US | $17.00 | 750ml |
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15 May 2006
90PTS
Concha y Toro Terrunyo Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileAlmost freaky good this hillside gravelly block selection is all lemon and mineral; a Sancerre look-like. Fresh and intense with a leesys undertone but without any agressive edges. It's bottled under screwcap with less sulphur than ever and it shows. Wow. This is a serous bottle of juice.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Las Rocas de San Alejandro Garnacha 2004
Calatayud, Aragon, SpainSmoky, peppery, spicy, gamey, meaty, rootsy, black cherry nose with a touch of barnyard and garrigue. Rich, round, soft and supple with floral, meaty, spicy, black cherry, chocolate and black raspberry flavours. Warm finish but soft and fruity. Continued good value.Prices:| BC | $15.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Quintessence du Chateau des Graves 2001
Margaux, Haut-Médoc, Médoc, Bordeaux, FranceVanilla, toasty oak, tobacco leaf, cherry, cedar bark, licorice root aromas. Round, soft, dry palate with some light, cedar-y tannins. Peppery, tobacco leaf, green olive, cassis flavours with a mineral, vanilla, green bean finish. Elegant but somewhat on the green side and dry. Needs 1-2 years to smooth out.Prices:| BC | $54.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Chateau de la Meuliere 2001
Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux, Cotes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, FrancePeppery, tobacco, smoky, cherry, leafy, olive aromas with some cherry and cassis at the end. Soft, round, dry, elegant palate with light, tight, cedar-y tannins. Cherry, tobacco, cedar, peppery, spicy, olive flavours. A simple, elegant style but not big on fruit. Drink now or over the next year.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 375ml |
| BC | $22.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Telmo Rodriguez Lanzaga Vinedos en Lanziego 2002
Rioja, SpainCherry jam, saddle leather, smoky, spicy, resiny, vanilla aromas with a touch of eucalyptus and cigar. Soft, dry, round, supple palate with light, dry tannins. Cherry, plum, tobacco, leather, earthy, rootsy, vanilla and pepper flavours. Nice elegance but a bit dry and lean on the finish. Good fit for beef.Prices:| BC | $33.49 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Turonien Vouvray 2004
Vouvray, Touraine, Loire, FranceHoney, ripe pear, slate, quince, buttery, floral, lees aromas with a touch of almond and cream. Ripe, round, rich, fresh palate with a dry, slightly oily texture. Slate, almond, honey, pear and citrus flavours with a crisp, zesty green apple finish. Good now but will improve over the next year. Very solid for any seafood.Prices:| BC | $22.75 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Clos du Chateau de Mosny Montlouis Sur Loire Sec 2003
Montlouis, Touraine, Loire, FranceHoney, floral, acacia, nutty, quince, lees, lemon oil nose with some green apple skin and citrus. Round, ripe, soft palate with quince, pear, honey, floral, apple skin flavours and a touch of slate and cement at the end. Elegant with a slight oiliness, this is ready to drink with mussels or sole.Prices:| BC | $23.49 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Clos du Chateau de Mosny Montlouis Sur Loire Moelleux 2003
Montlouis, Touraine, Loire, FranceThis is a sweeter, late harvest style in 500nl. Baked pear, honey, acacia, floral, slate, lees, apricot, read apple and cream aromas. Sweet, round, elegant style but not cloying, nicely balanced. Cooked pear, quince, honey, dried apricot, butter and cream flavours. Delicate finish with fine flavour concentration. Lacks some acidity but delicious for current drinking.Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Quails' Gate Chenin Blanc Limited Release 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaChalky, lime rind, passion fruit, sweaty grapefruit rind and bubble gum nose. Very crisp but round and a touch warm. Big juicy green apple, grapefruit rind, passion fruit, honey flavours with a rind-y, somewhat hot, mineral finish. An easy-drinking summer seafood or picnic wine. A solid improvement over the last two vintages.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Castillo de Monséran Garnacha 2004
Cariñena, Aragon, SpainGamey, meaty, spicy, floral, black cherry aromas with some leather and barnyard notes. Soft, round, supple forward style. Spicy, black cherry, plum, licorice, meaty, peppery flavours. Dry, slightly hot finish but has good fruit and acidity. Drink now, great value everyday red.Prices:| BC | $9.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $9.05 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Torres de Anguix Tinto 2003
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainSpicy, peppery, meaty, garrigue, black cherry, rootsy aromas with a touch of smoke and plum. Ripe, round, soft and dry with slightly rustic tannins. Bright cherry, plum, spicy, peppery, licorice, gamey, mineral flavours. A touch acidic on the finish but well balanced for roasted lamb.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Rubens Tempranillo 2004
La Mancha, Castilla-La Mancha, SpainPeppery, spicy, tobacco, cedar, meaty aromas with floral, cherry, resin and leather underneath. Dry, round, soft and supple with red licorice, cherry, spicy, floral, orange peel flavours and a smoky, leather, tobacco finish. Good fruit and balance, ready to roll.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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11 May 2006
92PTS
Markus Molitor Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Auslese 2003
Mosel, GermanyLime, clover, honey, spicy, floral, green apple, zesty nose with some orange and slate notes. Rich, ripe, intense and concentrated if a bit fat on entry. Baked peach, red apple, orange, guava and honey flavours. A very ripe, exotic, tropical style with good creamy acidity. Fine effort if a bit soft for any long-term aging.Prices:| BC | $46.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 375ml |
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93PTS
Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenhur Riesling Spätlese 2004
Mosel, GermanyA more delicate vineyard with creamier acidity. Floral, lime, granny smith, stony, slate, clover, wild honey aromas with some zesty notes. Ripe, rich, round and fresh but very zippy and elegant. Lots of green apple, butter, lime, green peach, honey, guava flavours with a spicy, slate finish. Very good concentration and intensity with excellent acidity and length. Very delicate style built for aging or drinking. Fine value.Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Markus Molitor Zeltinger Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese 2001
Mosel, GermanyVery open flinty, petrol, apple skin, lime rind, rose nose. Rich, ripe, elegant palate with very good acidity. Buttery, lime, petrol, stony slate, peach skin, granny smith flavours. Great acidity and balance on the finish with intense fruit. A more mineral, petrol, citrus style that will age for years. Excellent and a great value.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenhur Riesling Kabinett 2004
Mosel, GermanySteely, flinty, floral, green apple, lime nose with some honey and green guava. Round, elegant, ripe and juicy but very delicate. Big peach, citrus, green apple, lime, flinty, honey, guava flavours. Very good acidity, great length and fruit. Will age well. A very fine effort for a Kabinett. Worth trying.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Markus Molitor Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese Feinherb 2004
Mosel, GermanySmoky mineral, green apple, lime, slightly wild yeast and orange aromas. Crisp, round, delicate and zippy on entry with green apple skin, lime rind, steely, mango skin flavours. Nice balance and concentration with a slightly butter, stony, pear finish. Very good for food.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Markus Molitor Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese* Feinherb 2003
Mosel, GermanyStoney, slate, slightly smoky nose mixed with floral, green apple skin, lime and pear aromas with a touch of orange. Rich, ripe, round and elegant but a touch fat. Lime, red apple, butter, honey, clove, mango flavours. Nice fruit, intense palate and full. Ready to drink, needs a curry or pork dish.Prices:| BC | $46.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Markus Molitor Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese Feinherb 2003
Mosel, GermanyThis vineyard is supposed to have a more mineral, stony character than most. Ripe apple, nectarine, honey, mango, floral, white peach aromas with a touch of smoky guava. Round, rich, full and elegant but a bit soft. Buttery mango, lime, orange, green apple skin flavours with a touch of smoke. Very good but a bit sweet and warm, a fuller style.Prices:| BC | $31.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Markus Molitor Zeltinger Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett Feinherb 2004
Mosel, GermanyFresh floral, mineral, green apple skin, lime, nectarine nose with some petrol and light lees. Fresh, round, delicate and creamy palate that is off dry wit good acidity. Good granny smith apple, slate, nectarine skin, lime flavours with a crisp, delicate finish. Well made, attractive style.Prices:| BC | $27.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Markus Molitor Estate Riesling QBA 2003
Mosel, GermanyMade entirely from estate-grown grapes (unlike Dr. L etc). Floral, slate, green apple, green mango, lime nose. Ripe, round, soft and elegant with lots of ripe red apple, peach, pear, buttery citrus flavours. Good acidity but on the sweeter side, typical 2003.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Nieto Senetiner Bonarda Limited Edition Series 2003
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaMade from 40-year old vines. Smoky, peppery, saddle leather, dusty earth, iron, black peppery, vanilla, coca nose with lots of black cherry, plum and eucalyptus underneath. Rich, ripe, round and warm on the palate with ripe, grainy tannins. Vanilla, cocoa, cassis, plum jam, peppery, licorice, minty, resin and tobacco flavours. Long, ripe, intense finish that is a bit rustic but balanced. Needs a few years to fully round out.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $32.97 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Nieto Senetiner Cadus Malbec 2002
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaCadus is a single vineyard malbec from Agrelo and 2002 is an outstanding year. Look for peppery, vanilla, chocolate, black cherry jam aromas mixed with plum, savoury, smoky floral aromas with a strong hint of cardamom, saddle leather and orange peel ― the real malbec. Rich, ripe, fat and concentrated with fine, tight tannins and good acidity. Lots of smoky, resin, plum, black cherry, vanilla, chocolate and tobacco flavours with a garrigue, orange peel, savoury pudding finish. Very warm with some tannins to shed but has balanced and finesse. Will improve over the next 3-7 years. Certainly worth cellaring.Prices:| BC | $59.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $59.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Don Nicanor Blend 2004
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaBig spicy, licorice, peppery, garrigue nose with smoky, tobacco, black cherry jam notes with a chocolate/resin streak. Dry, rich, and concentrated with roundness but grainy tannins. Chocolate, black cherry, peppery, licorice, cigar, roasted mushroom and cassis flavours with a resiny, tobacco, clove and garrigue finish. Good intensity and finesse if a bit warm. Will improve over the next 2-3 years. Good value.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.43 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Benjamin Nieto Chardonnay 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaAn un-oaked style. Mineral, green apple skin, floral, slightly smoky nose with a touch of butter. Dry, round, crisp style with green apple, floral, peach pit, lime, stony mineral flavours with a touch of nectarine skin and lemon peel in the finish. Fresh style, a good seafood wine with some elegance. Excellent value.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.25 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Nieto Senetiner Las Marias Torrontés 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaFloral, spicy, peach, lemon oil, red apple nose. Dry, round, soft and slightly oily but good acidity. Mineral, green apple, peach pit, spicy, floral quince flavours. Simple, fresh, easy-drinking style for summer and seafood.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Nieto Senetiner Las Marias Malbec 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaSpicy, cherry, leather, smoky game aromas. Round, dry, soft, full palate. Smoky leather, prune, roasted mushroom flavours with a spicy, black cherry finish. Solid, easy, affordable barbecue red with some light, cedar-y tannins and flavours on the finish.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Benjamin Nieto Malbec 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaSpicy, prune, smoky, meaty, black cherry and garrigue nose with a waxy, cedar streak. Dry, round entry with a touch of acidity. Earthy, meaty, black cherry, chocolate, spice and cedar flavours. Solid food style wine but could use a bit more fruit intensity.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.25 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Benjamin Nieto Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaChocolate, cassis, spicy, gamey, peppery, leather aromas. Ripe, round, soft and supple entry. Cassis, peppery, spicy, black olive, smoky, gamey, savoury flavours. Good concentration and balance, and fair value.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.25 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Nieto Senetiner Malbec Reserva 2004
Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaSpicy, peppery, smoky, meaty nose with savoury chocolate black cherry, vanilla and floral notes. Soft, round, supple and full. Black cherry, chocolate, savoury, peppery, roasted mushroom flavours with cassis, cedar and tobacco on the finish. Good fruit and length, very solid, fine value here.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.25 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Nieto Senetiner Cabernet Shiraz Reserva 2004
Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaA 60/40 blend cab/shiraz with a big cassis, black pepper nose marked with licorice root, smoky, saddle leather, tobacco and a cardamom streak. Rich, round, supple and supple with light grainy tannins. Huge spicy, vanilla, cedar, black cherry, cassis, smoky, tobacco, leather and mocha flavours. A bit rustic and warm but with plenty of intensity. Excellent value.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.12 | 750ml |
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09 May 2006
88PTS
Gérard Bertrand Classic Viognier 2005
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceOpen floral aromas reminiscent of white flowers and orange blossoms with a streak of honey speak to the vineyards high-density plantings of 6000 vines per hectare. The entry is rich and full with a nutty honey fruity mid-palate. Just the right mix of oak (about 25 per cent), fresh clean stainless steel, and just the perfect level of alcohol. Impressive effort at an excellent price.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Arrogant Frog Ribet Red 2004
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceFrench wineries having fun, indeed poking fun at themselves, is not something we see too often. Arrogant Frog Ribet Red is just that and it has a snappy red screw cap and label to boot. The blend is cabernet and merlot the source is the earthy dry smoky, supple fruit of the Languedoc. This is hamburger / barbecue red that's got, ahem, legs, frogs legs. Ribet ribet.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Vina Casablanca Sauvignon Blanc Coleccion Privada 2005
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileAnother solid edition to add to the under $14 category. Fresh and bright on the nose with gooseberry, green apple skin and lime rind aromas and flavours. Fresh, well-balanced and stylish Casablanca sauvignon. A perfect match for summer seafoods.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
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06 May 2006
87PTS
Sumac Ridge Meritage Blanc 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVanilla, lees, grapefruit, butter, baked pear, light melon aromas. Ripe, round, rich and soft with an oily texture. Big creamy vanilla, buttered popcorn, grapefruit, melon, leesy, waxy flavours. Oak dominates at this stage. Finish is very warm with a bit of sweetness. Still young and will need more time to fully develop. The blend is 80/20 sauvignon blanc /semillon.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.20 | 750ml |
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05 May 2006
86PTS
Château des Charmes Gamay Noir Droit St. David's Bench Vineyard 2003
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaPeppery, earthy, sausage, floral, gamey, black cherry nose. Round, dry and supple palate with earthy, peppery, briar, cherry, licorice root flavours. Somewhat lean and dry and warm on the finish but will be fine with food over the next year or so.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Sebastiani Barbera 2004
Sonoma Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesSpicy, mocha, peppery, vanilla pudding, cedar, black cherry aromas. Round, dry, supple palate but elegant with light tannins. Peppery, black cherry jam, coffee, vanilla, cedar flavours. Ripe, oaky, spicy Starbucks style, ready to go.Prices:| US | $24.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Sandhill Small Lots Program Cabernet Sauvignon - Syrah Burrowing Owl Vineyard 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSmoky, peppery, chocolate, black olive, black cherry, saddle leather nose with some vanilla, resin and game. Round, soft, dry palate with light, grainy tannins. Licorice root, peppery, spicy, gamey, black cherry, vanilla, bitter chocolate flavours with some tobacco and prune on the finish. Warm and dry but well balanced and supple. Will improve over the next 2-3 years.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.99 | 750ml |
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02 May 2006
85PTS
Summerhill Pyramid Winery Gamay 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCedar, earthy, meaty, black cherry, floral and barnyard aromas. Dry, round full palate with light cedar-y tannins. Peppery, tobacco, earthy, smoky oak and cedar flavours with a light sour cherry finish. Just a bit too dry and lean; needs food.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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June 2006