Tastings: May 2007

31 May 2007

88PTS

Chateau Clarke 2001

Listrac, Haut-Médoc, Médoc, Bordeaux, FranceVery spicy, licorice, peppery, cassis jam, cedar nose with a hint of coffee and violet. Dry, elegant, somewhat tannic, youthful palate. Big peppery, cedar, spicy, rootsy, cassis, cardamom, licorice root flavours with a bit of cranberry, black olive and menthol on the finish. Well structured but young, will improve over the next 2-5 years.Prices:

BC

$46.75

750ml

Producer: Baron Edmond de Rothschild

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30 May 2007

90PTS

Brancaia Chianti Classico 2004

Tuscany, ItalyMeaty, spicy, black cherry, cedar, menthol, vanilla, tobacco aromas. Round, elegant, full and dry with some tannin still to shed. Spicy, pepper, meaty fruit with prune, cherry and vanilla flavours and bits of cassis, cedar and milk chocolate on the finish. Young, more modern style with good finesse. Needs 1-3 years to fully round out.Prices:

BC	$52.00	750ml
AB	$42.00	750ml

Producer: Brancaia

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29 May 2007

88PTS

Bouchard Aîné & Fils Volnay Les Grands Poisots Cuvée Signature 2005

Volnay, Côte de Beaune, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceSpicy, black cherry, earthy, rootsy, orange spice, light floral nose with a bit of game and saddle leather. Soft, ripe, round, dry palate with good finesse and acidity. Peppery, black cherry, light mocha, briar, raspberry leaf, and licorice flavours. Good ripeness and elegance. Try now and over the next 2-4 years. Well made. Good value here.Prices:

BC	$42.99	750ml
AB	$42.00	750ml

Producer: Bouchard Aîné & Fils

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88PTS

Foxtrot Pinot Noir 2005

Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, spicy, celery salt nose with cooked cherry, worsteshire, pepper and lifted, pruny rootsy aromas. Soft, round, supple entry with spicy, mocha, black cherry, peppery, vanilla, soy flavours. Finish is warm with some bits of orange spice, lees and cedar. A slightly riper, warmer, plusher version of the 2004. Well done.Prices:

BC

$49.99

750ml

Producer: Foxtrot Vineyards Ltd.

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87PTS

Foxtrot Pinot Noir 2004

Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, celery salt, worsteshire, rootsy nose with lifted cherry aromas spiked with a touch of garlic and vanilla. Round, dry, supple, slightly tannic palate on entry with coffee, black cherry, balsamic, cooked rhubarb, rootsy flavours. Warm finish with some oak showing but with good acidity balance. Needs 1-3 years to round out. Fine first effort for a solid entry-level pinot.Prices:

BC

$49.99

750ml

Producer: Foxtrot Vineyards Ltd.

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27 May 2007

87PTS

Sandhill Sauvignon Blanc Sandhill Estate Vineyard 2006

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSimilar to last year, the '06 comes with a gooseberry, passion fruit, grassy, canned asparagus nose albeit slightly cleaner and fresher under screw cap. Round, dry, crisp palate with juicy canned grapefruit, gooseberry, lime and nettle flavours with a floral, grassy finish. Quite austere in the finish with some acidity to tame. Will improve over the next year or two.Prices:

BC

$17.99

750ml

Producer: Sandhill Wines

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84PTS

Peller Estates Heritage Series Pinot Gris 2006

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe newest Peller Heritage has gone back to pinot gris as opposed to last year's grigio tag. It is straight-up gris with bits of butter melon and grapefruit notes. More cool-climate white than pinot grigio but clean enough to gulp down on a hot day. Decent value.Prices:

BC	$12.49	750ml
AB	$14.49	750ml
SK	$12.29	750ml
MB	$12.29	750ml

Producer: Andrew Peller Import Agency

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87PTS

Fairview Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen buttery, vanilla, honey, lemon oil nose with sweaty grapefruit rind and passion fruit aromas. Soft, round, fresh palate with an oily texture. Vanilla, spicy cinnamon, butter, grapefruit, passion fruit, grassy melon rind flavours. Good solid fruit core and balance if a touch oaky on the finish.Prices:

BC

$19.90

750ml

Producer: Fairview Cellars

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83PTS

Rutherford Ranch Sauvignon Blanc 2004

Napa Valley, California, United StatesSkunky, grapefruit rind, leesy, old butter nose. Soft, round, flabby entry, slightly coarse with soapy, herbal, leesy, grapefruit rind flavours. Past its best. Drink up.Prices:

BC

$21.99

750ml

Producer: Rutherford Wine Company

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85PTS

Jackson-Triggs Sauvignon Blanc Proprietors' Reserve 2006

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBright gooseberry, grapefruit rind nose flecked with soap and a touch of mineral. Crisp, round, slightly sweet entry with butter, grapefruit rind, canned jalapeno and gooseberry flavours. It finishes with a bit too much bitter, citrus rind to be considered in the top echelon. Will be better with food.Prices:

BC	$14.00	750ml
AB	$16.00	750ml

Producer: Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate

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85PTS

Sumac Ridge Sauvignon Blanc Private Reserve 2006

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, grassy, grapefruit rind aromas. Soft, round, slightly sweet entry with grapefruit rind, butter, apple skin flavours. Simple, tart, round finish that is a bit hot.Prices:

BC	$14.00	750ml
AB	$19.00	750ml

Producer: Sumac Ridge Estate Winery

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86PTS

Montes Classic Series Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileLight, fresh, aromatic style sauvignon with grassy aromas. On the palate it is similarly dry with gooseberry lemon-lime flavours and more dry grassy tones in the finish. Simple straight -up sauvignon that needs a California roll to set off its best aspects. Well made.Prices:

CDN

$15.00

750ml

Producer: Viña Montes

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88PTS

Santa Rita Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2006

Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe screw capped finished version of the '06 reserva sauvignon is a touch more intense and seems to magnify the bell pepper and lemon aspects. The style is crisp and tight with plenty of grassy gooseberry fruit. Intense fruit flavours coat your palate mixing bell pepper, gooseberry dried herbs and lemony grapefruit. There's no malolactic fermentation and two month lees contact makes for a creamy, passion fruit finish. Bring on the shellfish, again.Prices:

BC	$13.99	750ml
AB	$12.80	750ml
MB	$11.92	750ml
ON	$12.45	750ml

Producer: Viña Santa Rita

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87PTS

Santa Rita Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2006

Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileBottled under natural cork it's a carbon copy of the '05 with its crisp tight nose of gooseberry and grapefruit rind. Intense fruit flavours coat your palate mixing bell pepper, gooseberry dried herbs and grapefruit. There's no malolactic fermentation and two month lees contact to and a creamy, passion fruit finish. Bring on the shellfish, again. Good value.Prices:

BC	$13.99	750ml
AB	$12.80	750ml
MB	$11.92	750ml
ON	$12.45	750ml

Producer: Viña Santa Rita

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88PTS

Peninsula Ridge Sauvignon Blanc McNalley Vineyard 2006

Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaNettle, passion fruit, light melon, grapefruit rind, bubble gum, mineral aromas. Dry, round, slightly linear entry with chalky, grassy, grapefruit, nettle, green apple skin flavours. A slightly leaner, less fruity style than the Lepp vineyard. Solid.Prices:

ON

$18.95

750ml

Producer: Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery

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89PTS

Peninsula Ridge Sauvignon Blanc A. J. Lepp Vineyard 2006

Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaFloral, gooseberry, passion fruit, lime rind, green apple aromas. Dry, crisp, juicy but slightly austere palate. Mineral, grassy, grapefruit, nettle, floral, passion fruit, green apple skin flavours. Good finesse and structure and balance. Perfect seafood wine.Prices:

ON

$18.95

750ml

Producer: Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery

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89PTS

Peninsula Ridge Sauvignon Blanc Wismer Vineyard 2006

Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaFloral, passion fruit, nettle, grassy, lemon oil nose with a slightly butter note. Round, full, dry, elegant style but slightly austere. Mineral, nettle, grassy, green apple skin, passion fruit flavours with a slightly smoky, grapefruit rind finish. Good finesse and crispness with a persistent finishPrices:

ON

$18.95

750ml

Producer: Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery

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86PTS

Deakin Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Victoria, AustraliaTart limey floral racy nose with gooseberry minerals and citrus rind. A mix of tropical fruit and herbal Loire notes all in one with a firm, dry rind-y finish. An oyster wine for sure but would easily work with prawns and or shellfish. Simple straight-up, un-wooded sauvignon from the Victoria region.Prices:

BC	$12.49	750ml
NF	$13.50	750ml
PEI	$13.50	750ml
QC	$12.99	750ml

Producer: Deakin Estate

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89PTS

Honig Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Napa Valley, California, United StatesGooseberry, grassy, canned asparagus, floral, melon aromas with a hint of passion fruit. Fresh, round, full palate but elegant with pear, grapefruit rind, passion fruit, butter flavours with a mineral, gooseberry finish. Attractive style to accompany food or on its own.Prices:

BC

$26.95

750ml

Producer: Honig Vineyard and Winery

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85PTS

Fat Bastard Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceMarzipan, cooked grapefruit, floral, lemon oil, candied apple nose. Dry, slightly austere palate, light with nutty, lemon oil, floral, mineral, baked gooseberry flavours. A bit strange and tart.Prices:

BC

$16.99

750ml

Producer: Guy Anderson Wines

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88PTS

Nobilo Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc Regional Collection 2006

Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandPassion fruit, smoky, canned jalapeno nose with fresh grass aromas. Soft, round, dry, slightly austere style with grapefruit rind, passion fruit, butter, grass flavours. Finish is crisp and round with a touch of green melon and bell pepper. Good solid style for food.Prices:

BC	$20.00	750ml
ON	$15.40	750ml
AB	$16.95	750ml
MB	$16.95	750ml
NF	$18.26	750ml

Producer: Nobilo Wines Limited

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88PTS

Errazuriz Sauvignon Blanc Casablanca 2005

Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileWow. This is a delicious style sauvignon boasting blanced citrus notes on the nose and on the palate. The entry is fresh with lemon and melon fruit and just a hint of lime rind and bell pepper to keep it mouth watering but not bitter. Very agreeable style that just screams for a plate of seafood or grilled citrus chicken. Very impressive for the price.Prices:

BC

$12.99

750ml

Producer: Viña Errazuriz

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89PTS

Paul Dolan Sauvignon Blanc (Organic Grapes) 2006

Mendocino County, California, United StatesGreen melon, grapefruit rind, grassy, orange blossom aromas. Ripe, round, fresh, slightly oily palate with grassy, nettle, grapefruit rind, butter and gooseberry flavours. Good intensity and balance with just a touch of heat on the finish. Impressive organic sauvignon.Prices:

BC	$26.00	750ml
AB	$22.00	750ml
ON	$20.00	750ml

Producer: Paul Dolan Vineyards

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89PTS

Wild Rock The Infamous Goose Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandNettle, grapefruit rind, canned asparagus, passion fruit, floral aromas. Dry, crisp, slightly austere entry with bell pepper, grapefruit, nettle, spicy, passion fruit, and lime flavours. Love the fresh, round style and the intense herbal, grassy notes in the finish.Prices:

BC	$25.99	750ml
AB	$21.40	750ml

Producer: The Wild Rock Wine Company

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89PTS

Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Napa Valley, California, United StatesLight vanilla, toasty lees, butter, grapefruit, passion fruit, and grassy, lemon oil aromas. Rich, round, full bodied style but has good finesse and acidity. Spicy, grapefruit rind, butter, vanilla, creamy, orange, and grassy, passion fruit flavours. Finish has a warm alcoholic edge but with an attractive kiwi and cream flavour.Prices:

BC	$45.95	750ml
AB	$39.95	750ml

Producer: Cakebread Cellars

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83PTS

Parducci Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Lake County, California, United StatesLeesy, butter, garlic, grassy, floral nose. Soft, round, slightly oily and flabby with nutty lees, herbal, grassy, garlic flavours. A bit unclean and unfocussed. Not as clean as we have come to expect.Prices:

BC	$16.99	750ml
AB	$15.95	750ml

Producer: Parducci Winery

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90PTS

Vina Litoral Ventolera Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Valle de Leyda, Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChileYear two at Vina Litoral and winemaker Ignacio Recabarren is on a role. Grassy, green apple skin, grapefruit, nettle, bell pepper and spicy, floral aromas mark this white made from 4 different clones harvested at different maturities. The entry is ripe but with finesse and a touch of oiliness. The flavours mix nettle, bell pepper, pepper, gooseberry and grapefruit rind with bits of butter and honey. Crisp, round finish. Excellent intensity and fine new 'Leyda' style.Prices:

BC

$19.99

750ml

Producer: Viña Litoral (Geo Wines)

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86PTS

Echeverria Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileA bit older style here. It's clean and fresh but soft, with the emphasis on tropical fruit flavours of peaches, passion fruit and pineapple. Not a lot of minerality or acidity but there is a touch of dried herbs. Soft, simple, easy-sipping, sauvignon that needs drinking.Prices:

BC	$14.95	750ml
AB	$10.00	750ml

Producer: Viña Echeverria Ltda.

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25 May 2007

87PTS

Paul Dolan Chardonnay (Organic Grapes) 2006

Mendocino County, California, United StatesCool floral, citrus blossom, light lees, lime rind, nectarine skin aromas. Round, slightly spritzy palate, slightly warm with lime rind, green apple, spicy, pear flavours. Warm with light lees and slightly bitter citrus rind finish. 100 per cent organicPrices:

BC	$26.00	750ml
AB	$22.00	750ml
ON	$20.00	750ml

Producer: Paul Dolan Vineyards

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87PTS

Sonoma Vineyards Chardonnay 2005

Sonoma County, California, United StatesRed apple, honey, citrus rind, light buttery aromas. Round, fresh, slightly fat entry with grassy, green peach, honey, butter, canned grapefruit flavours. Solid, fresh style for consumption anytime.Prices:

BC	$22.95	750ml
ON	$19.95	750ml

Producer: Sonoma Vineyards

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87PTS

Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

Sonoma County, California, United StatesPeppery, black olive, tobacco, earthy, cassis nose. Round, soft, elegant palate with spicy, dill, olive, mocha, cedar flavours with a touch of prune and coffee vanilla on the finish. Simple, forward style for current consumption with light tannins.Prices:

BC	$26.99	750ml
AB	$22.00	750ml
ON	$24.95	750ml
SK	$26.99	750ml
MB	$28.00	750ml

Producer: Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards

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91PTS

Rodney Strong Chardonnay Chalk Hill 2005

Sonoma County, California, United StatesGreen apple skin, floral, citrus, light toasty vanilla nose. Ripe, round, elegant, slightly oily palate with nutty lees, vanilla, toasty, baked pear, citrus, green melon flavours. Good light buttery, nectarine skin, lees finish with some finesse. Consistent and good value.Prices:

ON	$24.45	750ml
AB	$22.99	750ml
BC	$29.99	750ml
US	$19.00	750ml

Producer: Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards

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85PTS

Andrew Peace Mighty Murray Chardonnay (Tetra Prisma) 2006

AustraliaFloral, peach, melon aromas. Soft, round, slightly sweet entry with baked apple, melon, peach skin flavours. Fresh, easy sipping summer chardonnay. impressive value for 1000 ml.Prices:

BC

$0.00

1000ml

Producer: Andrew Peace Winery

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91PTS

Domaine Carneros Le Reve Carneros Sparkling 2000

Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesContinuous fine mousse. Fresh green apple, citrus, light toast, floral, creamy aromas. Crisp, round, delicate palate with fine mousse. Nutty, green apple, baked pear, floral, creamy flavours with a light toasty, lemon aftertaste. Good acidity with a hint of sweetness on a lingering finish.Prices:

BC	$59.95	750ml
AB	$59.95	750ml

Producer: Domaine Carneros

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0PTS

Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay 2005

Napa Valley, California, United StatesCorked, try another.Prices:

BC	$64.95	750ml
AB	$55.45	750ml

Producer: Cakebread Cellars

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86PTS

Albert Bichot Bourgogne Vieilles Vignes Chardonnay 2003

Burgundy, FranceCreamy, green apple skin, grassy nose with a touch of butter. Dry, round, elegant, fresh style with butter, apple core, mineral, citrus rind flavours. Solid food style wine.Prices:

BC	$19.99	750ml
AB	$16.95	750ml

Producer: Albert Bichot

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87PTS

Anakena Chardonnay Reservado 2005

Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileLight lees, cream, waxy, floral, guava nose with a light nutty, citrus note. Rich, round, fresh, slightly fat entry with light toasty lees, citrus rind, pear, waxy, grassy, baked green apple flavours. A touch rind-y and hot on the finish but very solid value.Prices:

BC

$16.50

750ml

Producer: Accolade Wines Chile S.p.A.

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0PTS

Walter Hansel Chardonnay Cahill Lane Vineyard 2004

Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesCorked, try another.Prices:

BC	$39.99	750ml
AB	$34.99	750ml

Producer: Walter Hansel Winery

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89PTS

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Karia Chardonnay 2005

Napa Valley, California, United StatesButtery, creamy, honey, vanilla, citrus, peach skin aromas. Dry, round, rich, slightly fat entry but good finesse. Nutty, apple skin, citrus, nectarine skin, buttery lees flavours. Solid style for current consumption.Prices:

US	$32.00	750ml
AB	$42.00	750ml

Producer: Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

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90PTS

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

Napa Valley, California, United StatesPeppery, black olive, floral, cassis, dill, coriander, vanilla, coffee aromas with a bit of saddle leather in the background. Dry, round, elegant palate with grainy, slightly youthful tannins. Good concentration and acidity balance with some finesse. Cassis, peppery, coffee, earthy, tobacco, coriander, cherry flavours. Lengthy finish with tobacco and spice. Will improve over the next 2-5 years.Prices:

US	$50.00	750ml
BC	$71.99	750ml
AB	$61.00	750ml

Producer: Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

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87PTS

Avalon Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

Napa Valley, California, United StatesBig peppery, cedar-y, jammy, earthy, tobacco, pruny nose. Ripe, round, slightly chewy entry with some youthful tannins. Warm with blackberry, prune, coffee, cedar, cinnamon and chocolate. A touch of sweetness and cherry cola vanilla on the finish. Very consumer oriented for drinking now and over the next 1-2 years. Average quality for Napa.Prices:

BC

$22.99

750ml

Producer: Avalon Winery

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88PTS

Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2002

Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesVery spicy, peppery, black berry, leather, prune, tobacco nose with a touch of coffee. Dry, warm, chewy entry with youthful cedar-y tannins. Sweet cassis, cherry, peppery, spicy, cedar, resin, olive and tobacco flavours. There is a chewy tannin finish with some dryness but fruit at the end. Needs 2-4 years to soften out.Prices:

BC	$64.99	750ml
AB	$49.99	750ml
ON	$59.95	750ml
US	$40.00	750ml

Producer: Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards

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87PTS

Wente Vineyards Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Charles Wetmore 2004

Livermore, San Francisco Bay, California, United StatesSpicy, mocha, dill, olive, cassis nose with a touch of tobacco. Soft, round, easy style with light tannins. Cassis, coffee, olive, mocha, dill and cedar flavours. Finish is a bit lean with some vanilla and toast. Simple, food style red that is ready to drink.Prices:

BC

$28.99

750ml

Producer: Wente Vineyards

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24 May 2007

84PTS

Obikwa Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Western Cape, South AfricaLike the previous edition it's both clean and fresh with grapefruit rind and apple skin aromas with a fairly pronounced grapefruit rind flavour. Simple grassy sauvignon that is better served with food, not solo. Fair value.Prices:

BC	$9.49	750ml
AB	$9.25	750ml
SK	$10.99	750ml
MB	$8.49	750ml
ON	$8.50	750ml
NS	$9.99	750ml

Producer: Distell - Obikwa

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86PTS

Black Opal Shiraz 2003

South Eastern Australia, AustraliaOpen spicy blueberry fruit nose with bits of vanilla and spicy bacon. Very soft on entry with medium acidity in the finish. The flavours are an attractive mix of mocha, blueberry plums, licorice and vanilla with a touch of summer sausage. On the mark.Prices:

BC	$15.99	750ml
AB	$15.00	750ml
MB	$14.99	750ml
ON	$14.95	750ml
NB	$17.25	750ml
NS	$17.49	750ml
ON	$14.95	750ml

Producer: Black Opal Winery

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87PTS

Rodney Strong Zinfandel Knotty Vines 2004

Sonoma County, California, United StatesRodney Strong has about 15 acres of old, gnarled zinfandel vines, planted in 1904, that go into the blend of fruit that mixes the appellations of Dry Creek, Russian River and Alexander Valleys. The '04 is showing brambleberry-like fruit nuances on the nose and palate. On the palate more cranberry / brambleberry, blueberry fruit flavours mixed with soft if obvious charred American oak notes. Fresh and lively with just a touch of grippy tannins in the finish easily slaked by some grilled beef.Prices:

BC	$21.99	750ml
AB	$18.99	750ml
US	$19.00	750ml
ON	$19.95	750ml

Producer: Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards

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86PTS

Finca Flichman Misterio Malbec Shiraz Rose 2006

Mendoza, ArgentinaFun pink soft wine with simple strawberry, earthy, fruit flavours with a touch of caramel in the finish. Simply chill it down and serve with cold chicken pieces for best results - preferably on the beach.Prices:

BC

$12.99

750ml

Producer: Finca Flichman

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86PTS

Finca Flichman Misterio Shiraz 2005

Mendoza, ArgentinaTight, slightly reductive aromas of garlic and rubber overlaying dark fruits and savoury earthy elements. Smooth and soft on the palate with cleaner more savoury, black fruit and gritty tannins. A rustic red that will find a comfortable home around the barbecue pit.Prices:

BC

$12.99

750ml

Producer: Finca Flichman

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87PTS

Vina Casablanca Syrah Coleccion Privada 2005

Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe VC syrah is a touch better than last year's which was good. Love the peppery, spicy, blackberry fruit nose with smoky roasted pepper notes. The entry is soft and mouth-filling, perhaps not elegant but full of plummy smoky, peppery, earthy, meaty flavours. A fine effort at a terrific price.Prices:

BC

$13.99

750ml

Producer: Viña Casablanca Ltda

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87PTS

Vista TR 2003

Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalThis first Vista TR is a success and surely won't be the last. The TR stands for tinta roriz, the dark brooding Portuguese grape used in port and dry Douro reds. In this case it's migrated to Beiras in Central Portugal where it produces a tasty, fat, lush tasting red with spicy, licorice, black fruit flavours. A solid, summer, barbecue red.Prices:

BC

$11.99

750ml

Producer: Caves Aliança

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88PTS

Kunde Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Sonoma Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesFine bright tropical fruit nose. On the palate it has both the weight (from 4 per cent sémillon and 20 per wood ageing) and the lift from its tangy mid-palate acidity. Picking over a couple weeks provides a spectrum of limey melon flavours that make it all work. It has New World fruit but it remains food friendly. It's the best of both worlds. First vintage under screwcap.Prices:

BC

$23.40

750ml

Producer: Kunde Estate

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87PTS

Andretti Sangiovese 2005

Napa Valley, California, United StatesMade with 100 per cent Napa Valley sangiovese grapes by Robert Pepi. The aromas are a mix of red berry fruits. On the palate the wine is warm and spicy with tart cranberry/strawberry fruit flavours with a hint of cedar bark. Dry and somewhat austere as if it were Italian but just a bit to boisterous to be sangiovese. Best with food now or let it age another two or three years in bottle.Prices:

BC

$36.16

750ml

Producer: Andretti Winery

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84PTS

Juno Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Robertson, Breede River Valley, South AfricaLeesy, slightly dirty, melon butter nose. Tart entry with grassy, gooseberry rind-y, butter fruit flavours and not much charm. Simple at best.Prices:

BC

$12.95

750ml

Producer: Juno Wine Company

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91PTS

Penfolds Cabernet Shiraz Bin 389 2003

South Australia, AustraliaI can't tell you how happy I am to taste an Australian wine that doesn't have that odd acidified flavoured. The '03 389 is suitably dark and well wrapped in cassis, chocolate, vanilla and black pepper aromas without any green character. The mouth is ripe and supple as always with more sweet tobacco, chocolate and smoky, herbal black currant flavours. A very fine effort.Prices:

BC	$37.07	750ml
AB	$36.00	750ml
SK	$33.99	750ml
MB	$35.99	750ml
ON	$35.95	750ml
QC	$37.00	750ml
NS	$39.99	750ml
NF	$38.99	750ml

Producer: Penfolds

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87PTS

Marques de Casa Concha Chardonnay 2005

Pirque, Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileLight vanilla, honey, butter, garlic lees, guava aromas. Ripe, round, crisp entry with an oily texture. Leesy, vanilla, butterscotch, citrus, green pear flavours with a nutty, green apple skin finish. Solid but a little skinny in the middle.Prices:

BC	$22.99	750ml
AB	$16.99	750ml
SK	$17.99	750ml
ON	$12.95	750ml

Producer: Viña Concha y Toro S.A.

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23 May 2007

87PTS

CedarCreek Ehrenfelser 2006

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe '06 ehrenfelser from CedarCreek has summer written all over it. The nose is a mix of sweet honeysuckle, tangerine and minerals. Fresh and ripe its creamy textures offer up bits of pink grapefruit, floral, peachy mineral flavours. A perfect solo sipper for summer or pair with spicy, Asian or Indian dishes.Prices:

BC

$17.09

750ml

Producer: CedarCreek Estate Winery

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86PTS

See Ya Later Ranch Riesling 2006

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA new effort from Hawthorne Mountain or is it See Ya Later Ranch, it seems many are now confused as the brand morphs from HMV to SYL. This is straight-ahead riesling under screw cap, fresh and clean with green apple and mineral flavours and a touch of apple core. Not very complex but will do for sipping on the patio on a hot summer's day.Prices:

BC

$15.99

750ml

Producer: See You Later Ranch

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21 May 2007

96PTS

House of Salon Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil-sur-Oger 1996

Champagne, FranceThe House of Salon only makes one wine - the Blanc de Blancs, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Even then it's only produced in the finest years and its release occurs only when the winery thinks it's ready, usually some 6 to 8 years later - surely a rare occurrence in the modern wine business. The fruit comes off a single hectare of vines known as Le Jardin de Salon and 19 other smaller parcels totalling just over 9 hectares in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. The 1996 is everything you think it should be powerful yet elegant, youthful but drinkable, and packed full of nutty, mineral, citrus flavours. Very fine bubble. Highly refined champagne.Prices:

BC	$359.00	750ml
AB	$370.00	750ml
ON	$350.00	750ml
QC	$350.00	750ml

Producer: Champagne Salon

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85PTS

Black Opal Cabernet Merlot 2005

South Eastern Australia, AustraliaOpen nose of blueberry cedar and spice that spills onto the palate. The texture is soft with bits of chocolate and leather in the finish. Very simple, varietal red wine.Prices:

BC	$16.00	750ml
AB	$15.00	750ml
MB	$14.49	750ml
ON	$14.95	750ml
NF	$16.25	750ml

Producer: Black Opal Winery

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87PTS

Chateau Peychaud 2004

Cotes de Bourg, Cotes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, FranceSurprisingly rich and open on the nose with a fairly fat demeanour. The nose mixes coffee and leather with bits of cedar and cassis. On the palate you get more blackberry jam and cedar tobacco and leather. It packs a fair amount of punch for unclassified Bordeaux and while the fruit component is almost non-existent (read dry), it should be fine with lamb or beef or strong cheeses.Prices:

BC

$17.99

750ml

Producer: Château Peychaud

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85PTS

Château Timberlay 2003

Bordeaux, FranceIt's hard to believe any wine with a label like Timberlay could survive in the '00s but so it does. This mostly merlot (80 per cent) blend is predictably dry and leathery with bits of coffee and spice but no discernible fruit. The finish is dry with smoky bell pepper and cedar notes. Simple Euro red best served with grilled meat.Prices:

BC	$18.05	750ml
QC	$18.75	750ml
PEI	$16.15	750ml
NF	$16.34	750ml
NS	$15.48	750ml

Producer: Robert Giraud

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86PTS

Fleur du Cap Merlot 2003

Coastal Region, South AfricaOne of the better inexpensive SA merlot that appears to be made without any mass production thoughts. The nose is clean with bright black fruit notes and a moderate amount of oak. Similar flavours show raspberry/cherry, oak and spice in pleasing amounts. Simple straight up merlot you can pour liberally around the barbecue. Excellent value.Prices:

BC

$13.99

750ml

Producer: Distell - The Bergkelder

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84PTS

Juno Cabernet Shiraz Merlot 2005

Robertson, Breede River Valley, South AfricaThe "maiden' on the label is decidedly more ample than the wine. The mix is 50/30/20 cabernet sauvignon / shiraz / merlot but the flavours are coffee and cedar bark. Smooth warm and soft. Simple entry level red. Prices:

BC

$12.95

750ml

Producer: Juno Wine Company

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20 May 2007

0PTS

Pascual Toso Syrah 2005

Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaCorkedPrices:

BC	$11.99	750ml
AB	$9.99	750ml
MB	$11.99	750ml
QC	$13.45	750ml

Producer: Pascual Toso

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93PTS

Champagne Delamotte Rosé N/V NV

Champagne, FranceSmooth luxury describes this delicious pink with its cherry/licorice truffle oil nose. Like all the other Delamotte's, it is lively on the palate but the rosé adds another layer of red berry flavours to its floral, seawater and mineral, undercarriage. Long and persistent stylish pink.Prices:

AB	$77.00	750ml
BC	$88.99	750ml

Producer: Champagne Delamotte

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93PTS

Champagne Delamotte Brut Blanc de Blancs 1997 1997

Champagne, FranceThe 1997 vintage "Blancs de Blancs" is showing very well at this point nearly a decade down the road. There is lovely refinement in its earthy, citrus, floral notes. On the palate the bubbles dissolves into a creamy spicy mix of minerals flowers and citrus. Clean fresh delicate and sophisticated this is bubble for the thinking person.Prices:

ON	$70.00	750ml
AB	$80.00	750ml
BC	$88.99	750ml

Producer: Champagne Delamotte

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90PTS

Champagne Delamotte Brut NV

Champagne, FranceThe fruit, chardonnay (50), pinot noir (35-40) and pinot meunier (10-15) is all Grand Cru status and aged a minimum of three years on the lees prior to release or more than twice 15 months the legal minimum for Brut Champagne. The nose is clean and fresh with hints of mineral and seawater. The palate is similarly styled with creamy citrus fruit flecked with chalky minerality. Delicious apéritif.Prices:

BC

$65.00

750ml

Producer: Champagne Delamotte

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19 May 2007

85PTS

Pascual Toso Chardonnay 2006

Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaLight clean commercial chardonnay with decent acidity and buts of pear and apple. No faults and no surprises. Simple, easy-drinking white winePrices:

BC	$11.99	750ml
AB	$9.99	750ml
MB	$11.99	750ml

Producer: Pascual Toso

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86PTS

Babich East Coast Chardonnay Unoaked 2005

East Coast, New ZealandCitrus rind, green apple, peach, floral aromas with a mineral streak. Round, elegant, slightly soft palate with a touch of sweetness. Butter, citrus, green apple skin, peach pit flavours with a slightly oily texture. Solid, easy drinking style.Prices:

QC

$16.10

750ml

Producer: Babich Wines Limited

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90PTS

Martinborough Vineyard Chardonnay Martinborough Terrace 2004

Martinborough, Wairarapa, North Island, New ZealandToasty, nutty, butter, floral, honey, baked apple aromas. Round, fresh, elegant palate but slightly oily with nutty, spicy, honey, butter, baked apple and pear flavours. Finish is delicate with a waxy, oaky vanilla, lees streak. Not a big style wine although there is ample use of oak. Drink now and over the next year or so.Prices:

BC

$50.00

750ml

Producer: Martinborough Vineyard Ltd

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17 May 2007

87PTS

Tinhorn Creek Merlot 2004

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTinhorn winemaker Sandra Oldfield has a love affair with merlot and the south Okanagan. The latest release has the soft textures you might expect to tastes in merlot along with savoury smoky, red fruit aromas and flavours. Tasty, affordable Okanagan merlot perfectly suited red meats and the current bounty of the fall harvest.Prices:

BC

$18.00

750ml

Producer: Tinhorn Creek Vineyards

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88PTS

Jeannot Pere et Fils Pouilly Fumé Les Riaux 2005

Pouilly-Fume, Upper Loire, Loire, FranceGrapefruit, chalky, floral, oyster shell, light melon rind aromas. Dry, round, elegant and crisp with a touch of oiliness on the palate. Juicy grapefruit, floral, chalky, green apple flavours with a hint of grassy, bell pepper on the finish. Good elegant and fruit intensity with the light herbal streak. Very good food wine.Prices:

BC

$28.95

750ml

Producer: Jeannot Pere et Fils

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87PTS

Doudet Naudin Bourgogne Vicomtée Rouge 2005

Burgundy, FranceGood spicy, raspberry jam, licorice, orange peel aromas. Dry, round, slightly tight but full. Spicy, earthy, compost, raspberry, mineral flavours. Good fruit and acidity verve but young. Will improve over the next year in bottle.Prices:

BC	$25.95	750ml
ON	$20.00	750ml
QC	$23.00	750ml

Producer: Domaine Doudet Naudin

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87PTS

Tukulu Pinotage 2003

Groenekloof, Darling, Coastal Region, South AfricaOne of the better pinotage I've seen in Canada mostly because it's clean on th enose and palate. Look for smoky, fruity flavours reminiscent of berries with flecks of vanilla and licorice. Soft and round yet with some elegance and length. Serve with grilled meats and/or chicken. Prices:

BC

$19.21

750ml

Producer: Distell - Tukula

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16 May 2007

90PTS

Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato 2004

Bolgheri, Tuscany, ItalyIl Bruciato is the baby brother of Guado al Tasso; the Antinori big gun grown on the Tuscan coast some 60 miles southwest of Florence, in an area known as the Maremma. The property extends from the amphitheatre foothills around the medieval village of Bolgheri down to the sea. Il Bruciato is a delicious, savoury, mini version of Guado at a fantastic price. The blend is 60 30 10 cabernet sauvignon merlot and syrah all wrapped up in a fragrant, plummy chocolate red wine with hint of the sea.Prices:

BC	$33.00	750ml
QC	$28.00	750ml

Producer: Tenuta Guado al Tasso

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91PTS

Montes Folly Syrah 2003

Apalta Valley, Santa Cruz, Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileSappy cassis, licorice, smoky, spicy, floral, tobacco, black cherry jam, garrigue, vanilla, chocolate, meaty aromas. Rich, round and warm with good acidity balance and light grainy tannins. Very spicy, peppery, black cherry, chocolate, earthy, tobacco, licorice, orange compote flavours. Good finesse and length but finish is hot. Will improve over the next 3-5 years.Prices:

US

$65.00

750ml

Producer: Viña Montes

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90PTS

Rodney Strong Chardonnay 2005

Sonoma County, California, United StatesVanilla, butterscotch, green apple, citrus, floral, grassy, lees aromas. Round, fresh, elegant, delicate entry with green apple, citrus, creamy, baked pear, vanilla, spicy lees flavours. Cool style with good finesse and length. Consistent quality and value.Prices:

BC	$23.00	750ml
AB	$19.00	750ml
ON	$19.95	750ml
QC	$19.90	750ml

Producer: Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards

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90PTS

Rodney Strong Symmetry Red Table Wine 2001

Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesLots of cedar, cigar box, smoky, peppery, black berry, cassis, five spice aromas with an earthy, coffee streak. Rich, round, dry entry with some young, grainy tannin. Very smoky oak, vanilla, resin, cassis, black cherry, peppery, rootsy, tobacco, cedar flavours. Dry, somewhat tight finish a la Bordeaux although it's also reminiscent of a super-Tuscan red. Needs two to five more years to fully mature and bloom in the bottle.Prices:

BC	$90.00	750ml
ON	$69.00	750ml
AB	$85.00	750ml

Producer: Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards

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88PTS

Inniskillin Okanagan Chardonnay Dark Horse Estate Vineyard 2004

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBright, fresh green apple, lime rind, spicy, floral, creamy lees aromas. Round, crisp, baked green apple, citrus rind, mineral, creamy lees with a touch of guava. Fine cooler fruit version with verve. Best with food but works on th epatio too. Ready to drink.Prices:

BC

$19.00

750ml

Producer: Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards Inc.

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13 May 2007

86PTS

Bouchard Aîné & Fils Chardonnella Chardonnay 2005

Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceA new listing from the Boisset folks who own Bouchard Aîné & Fils, Chardonnella is a simple straight-up chardonnay from the Pays d'Oc. The wine is fresh with citrus, melon, red apple notes and a clean, dry finish. It is a very serviceable luncheon style/picnic white that will work with most dishes as opposed to against them. Solid value.Prices:

AB	$11.99	750ml
BC	$13.99	750ml

Producer: Bouchard Aîné & Fils

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86PTS

Fat Bastard Chardonnay 2005

Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThe Fat Bastard brand has settled into its role as a solid southern French label with a modern twist. The chardonnay gets a bit of barrel ferment and partial malolactic fermentation leaving a reasonably fresh white with smooth vanilla nutty notes. Clean and well made, if simple for the price. The winery says you can pair this with a variety of cheeses, seafood, poultry and cream sauce pastas.Prices:

BC	$16.99	750ml
ON	$14.95	750ml
NS	$14.73	750ml
NF	$17.30	750ml

Producer: Guy Anderson Wines

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91PTS

Laroche Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots 2004

Chablis, Burgundy, FranceNutty, garlic lees nose with citrus, floral, buttery, green apple throughout. Round, dry, fresh, elegant and juicy with green apple, garlic lees, spicy, citrus rind, mineral flavours. Long nutty, leesy, citrus finish that is dry but very well balance. Drink now or hold for 2-3 years.Prices:

BC	$100.00	750ml
AB	$90.00	750ml

Producer: Laroche

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92PTS

Laroche Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos 2004

Chablis, Burgundy, FranceLemon, light lees, floral, green apple, honey aromas. Delicate, light palate but balanced with green apple, grapefruit, butter, lees, honey flavours with a light garlic, nutty finish. Not huge intensity but very fine balance and delicacy.Prices:

BC	$142.00	750ml
AB	$127.00	750ml

Producer: Laroche

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88PTS

Laroche Mas La Chevaliere Blanc 2004

Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceButter, honey, citrus, lees, floral, orange peel aromas. Round, fresh, slightly fat entry but dry. Orange, leesy, spicy, ginger, honey, butter, nutty flavours. Good balance and intensity if a touch hot on the finish.Prices:

BC	$25.95	750ml
AB	$23.50	750ml
QC	$20.10	750ml

Producer: Laroche

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89PTS

Laroche Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaucopins 2004

Chablis, Burgundy, FranceGrassy, garlic lees, green apple skin aromas. Round, elegant, slightly soft palate with chalky, green apple, mineral, grapefruit juice flavours with a touch of butter and lees on the finish. Good finesse and ready to go.Prices:

BC	$39.95	750ml
AB	$36.95	750ml
ON	$22.95	750ml
QC	$24.95	750ml
PEI	$24.95	750ml

Producer: Laroche

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88PTS

Laroche Chablis Saint Martin 2005

Chablis, Burgundy, FranceChalky, citrus, green apple, slate, floral nose with a touch of lees. Dry, round, elegant, slightly fat entry. Green apple, citrus rind, slate, slightly grassy, grapefruit flavours. Good intensity and acidity on the finish with some persistence. Well made and juicy.Prices:

BC	$34.95	750ml
AB	$33.95	750ml
ON	$22.95	750ml
QC	$24.95	750ml
PEI	$24.95	750ml

Producer: Laroche

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90PTS

Terrazas de los Andes Malbec Reserva 2004

Mendoza, ArgentinaBig black cherry jam, dark plum, smoky, floral, coffee, vanilla, savoury orange chocolate nose. Rich, ripe, round, dry and fat with good intensity. Spicy orange, black plum jam, minty, peppery, tobacco, coriander, vanilla flavours. Very good intensity and length with super ripe fruit but good acidity. Fine effort and value for near term consumption.Prices:

BC	$22.99	750ml
QC	$18.25	750ml
AB	$17.95	750ml
ON	$16.95	750ml

Producer: Terrazas de los Andes

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93PTS

Achaval-Ferrer Finca Altamira Malbec 2004

La Consulta, Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaIntense dark cherry colour. Nice floral, spicy, peppery, chocolate, dark plum jam, vanilla, cedar, tobacco, savoury nose with a hint of olive and licorice root. Rich, full, round, elegant entry with grainy tannins. Cedar, vanilla, spicy oak with Bing cherry, peppery, spicy, violet, chocolate, tobacco flavours. Long, balanced finish with a bit of mocha and orange peel. Very fine balance with just a bit of acidity and youthful tannin showing. Will improve with 3-7 years in bottle.Prices:

BC	$109.90	750ml
AB	$89.00	750ml
ON	$99.00	750ml

Producer: Achaval-Ferrer

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91PTS

Achaval-Ferrer Quimera 2004

Mendoza, ArgentinaCassis, iodine, spicy, peppery, menthol, orange, coffee, violet, vanilla aromas. Rich, ripe, round, full and supple with some light grainy tannin. Chocolate, black cherry, cassis, tobacco, cedar, smoky licorice flavours with an earthy, coffee, vanilla, menthol finish. Good intensity and length if a bit hot and chunky. Very solid.Prices:

BC

$49.90

750ml

Producer: Achaval-Ferrer

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90PTS

Achaval-Ferrer Malbec 2005

Mendoza, ArgentinaSmoky, tarry, spicy, peppery, gamey, sausage, floral nose with some vanilla and plum jam in the background. Ripe, round, elegant, smooth and dry but slightly leaner style with good acidity. Coffee, tobacco, black cherry, minty, savoury, tarry, orange flavours with a touch of smoky bacon and vanilla on the finish. Nice intensity and finesse without being too big. A very good match for grilled meats.Prices:

BC	$26.90	750ml
AB	$23.95	750ml
ON	$24.95	750ml

Producer: Achaval-Ferrer

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87PTS

Finca La Linda Malbec by Luigi Bosca 2004

Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaSpicy, smoky, meaty, peppery, minty, vanilla nose with a hint of coriander. Round, warm, slightly sweet entry with cedar, tobacco, tarry, resin, black cherry, smoky game flavours. Finish is strong with mint, tobacco, licorice flavours. Good solid consumer style.Prices:

BC

$16.10

750ml

Producer: Luigi Bosca

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87PTS

Pascual Toso Malbec 2005

Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThe Toso malbec continues to over-deliver while demonstrating classic malbec character. Look for a big savoury, gamey, spicy, menthol, black cherry, cedar, licorice nose with ripe, fat, full-bodied mouth texture and smooth tannins. Peppery, menthol, black cherry, orange, cedar, tobacco, savoury flavours. Fine value and wonderful intensity for the price.Prices:

BC	$11.99	750ml
AB	$9.99	750ml
MB	$11.99	750ml
ON	$0.00	750ml

Producer: Pascual Toso

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85PTS

Round Hill Chardonnay 2004

California, United StatesVery approachable soft round easy sipping style of California chardonnay. The colour looks a bit tired but the wine is still fresh offering citrus green apple with a touch or orange blossom. The finish is even smoother with caramel butter highlights. Simple but attractive style. Needs drinking.Prices:

BC	$14.99	750ml
AB	$13.95	750ml

Producer: Round Hill Vineyards & Cellars

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87PTS

Andretti Chardonnay 2005

Napa Valley, California, United StatesThis opens with the honey and apricot you might expect from Napa but the structure and textures are restrained with lemon citrus notes throughout. Despite being barrel fermented and hit with partial malolactic fermentation it remains bright and clean. If anything it's a bit simple for the price but it will have wide appeal. It should be well suited to food.Prices:

BC

$30.00

750ml

Producer: Andretti Winery

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90PTS

Wente Chardonnay Riva Ranch Reserve 2004

Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesLove the immediate intensity here on the nose and the palate. Riva Ranch gets the full sur lie and malolactic treatment but its tropical fruit flavours remain bright and tasty with honeyed, red apple, brioche notes. The finish is long and smooth with nutty, oily, vanilla undertones. Well done.Prices:

BC	$27.99	750ml
AB	$19.50	750ml
MB	$24.95	750ml

Producer: Wente Vineyards

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87PTS

Bird in Hand Two in the Bush Semillon / Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide, South Australia, AustraliaTypical SSB with its citrus, grassy, gooseberry nose and palate. Very fresh on entry with lip smacking lime/lemon flavours and just a touch of fresh herbs. Lovely blance and lift and should be perfect for any food that needs a squeeze of lemon. Think roast chicken or oysters.Prices:

BC

$19.95

750ml

Producer: Bird in Hand Winery

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12 May 2007

85PTS

Simon Gilbert Card Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

New South Wales, AustraliaAt $16 you expect more sophistication. The tannins and the style are a bit rustic. The entry is dry with spicy blueberry, black cherry notes. Similar flavours on the palate with a dry chunky finish. Best with barbecue meats to tame the rough dry finish.Prices:

BC

$15.99

750ml

Producer: Simon Gilbert

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89PTS

Nugan Durif Manuka Grove Vineyard 2004

Murray - Darling, AustraliaBig dark inky red with a dark purple rim. Lifted notes of black fruit and earthy peppery mushroom notes dominate the nose. Similar flavours mixed with floral leather notes. A big chunky rustic red with plenty of punch and alcohol but not a lot of finesse. Best with big cuts of barbecued beef.Prices:

BC	$24.95	750ml
AB	$25.95	750ml
MB	$28.95	750ml

Producer: Nugan Estate

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89PTS

Bird in Hand Merlot 2005

Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide, South Australia, AustraliaThe 05 Bird in Hand Merlot has been a winner on the show circuit no doubt in part due to its smooth plummy blackberry fruit. The entry is equally smooth with a bit of cedar bark and lots of smooth minty herbal peppery, sweet black fruit and vanilla. Well made merlot that should have fairly wide appeal. Try with roast chicken.Prices:

BC

$32.95

750ml

Producer: Bird in Hand Winery

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86PTS

Bird in Hand Two in the Bush Merlot Cabernet 2005

Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide, South Australia, AustraliaBig lifted fruit flavours that are on the edge of being volatile. On the palate the flavours mix blueberry and blackcurrant with hints of rhubarb and fairly prominent acidity. The tannins are medium light with just a hint of dryness and mint from the cabernet. Grilled meat is the best answer here.Prices:

BC

$19.95

750ml

Producer: Bird in Hand Winery

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87PTS

Black Hills Carmenere 2005

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaB.C.'s first carmenère is a pleasant surprise. It's leafy (almost vegetative) but like cabernet franc it can get away with a bit of that character if the fruit is ripe. Carmenère is tricky to grow, at least that's what the Chileans tell me - with its naturally low acidity and need to ripen very late if you wait to long it can be flabby but if you pick to soon it's too peppery and herbaceous. In this case Black Hills has come close to hitting the mark with the leafy rubbery earthy fruit mixing with some sweet black fruit tones in the back end. The finish is soft and fiery. It doesn't have the real chocolate flavours you can get in ripe carmenère but these are young vines and it is a first crop. As the vines mature and the cardamom, tobacco, chocolate flavours come to the forefront it should be a varietal to watch.Prices:

BC

$28.90

750ml

Producer: Black Hills Estate Winery

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88PTS

Quinta do Crasto Douro Vinho Tinto 2005

Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalAttractive floral black plum fruit nose with earthy tea and licorice aromas. Youthful entry with some chunky tannins and that firm peppery, licorice, earthy, black plum Douro fruit that finishes with a chocolate pudding note. Still rambunctious and youthful but we know this will settle down for the long haul. Cellar for two to three years for best results or serve now with a rib-eye steak.Prices:

BC

$19.99

750ml

Producer: Quinta do Crasto (Sociedade Agricola da)

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90PTS

Quinta do Vallado Douro Vinho Tinto 2004

Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalLike the 03 the 04 has all that big smoky, peppery, licorice root aroma up front with bits of cherry jam and mint in the finish. The entry is dry, but well balanced and there is no obvious wood. Soft peppery fruit with licorice and black cherry and just a dusting of tannin in the finish. Try with any roasted meats. A blend of mostly touriga nacional and touriga franca. The wine is made by Francisco Olazabal who is responsible for the delicious wine at Quinta do Vale Meão and you can see some similarities.Prices:

BC

$20.04

750ml

Producer: Quinta do Vallado

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11 May 2007

85PTS

Luianico IGT Rosso Toscana 2004

Tuscany, ItalyLuianico is a sangiovese made with grapes grown across the region of Tuscany. The entry is dry with floral, cran-cherry notes. The flavours are similar on the palate and generally fresher than the '03 edition. Simple straight-up spaghetti red.Prices:

BC

$18.21

750ml

Producer: Fattoria di Luiano

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85PTS

Finca Flichman Malbec Oak Aged 2005

Mendoza, ArgentinaLight purple colour previews a smoky rubbery black fruit nose. The entry is soft and round with more rubber notes mixed with black fruit. The finish is smooth and stylish for the price. Good value that you can enhance by decanting this red for 30 minutes. Serve liberally around the barbecue.Prices:

BC

$10.99

750ml

Producer: Finca Flichman

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10 May 2007

87PTS

Rocca delle Macie Rubizzo 2005

Florence, Tuscany, ItalyRubizzo is a 95/5 sangiovese merlot mix, and the latest '05 edition comes with a floral, milk chocolate, black cherry, peppery, saddle leather nose. The entry is soft, but with good acidity, with more earthy chocolate cherry meaty notes. Fine length in a stylish sangiovese from a solid vintage. Good value too.Prices:

BC	$20.99	750ml
AB	$18.99	750ml
ON	$14.95	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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91PTS

Rocca delle Macìe Tenuta Sant'Alfonso Chianti Classico 2004

Florence, Tuscany, ItalyThe Sant'Alfonso estate is home to this 100 per cent sangiovese Chianti Classico made with a mix of clones and aged for a full 24 months in 35 hl French barrels. It's not listed as a 'Riserva' but its rich mouth filling style and fine body would indicate it is all that and more. The flavours mix liquorice, cherry, cranberry notes with a warm, smoky mocha coffee finish. Love the intensity and style here that really defines the sangiovese grape. Should age easily a decade.Prices:

QC

$25.00

750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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88PTS

Rocca delle Macie Chianti Classico 2005

Florence, Tuscany, ItalyLook for a fragrant dry nose with earthy, floral, gamey, spicy notes. The entry is dry and supple with tobacco, earthy, cherry, herbal, mineral flavours. The finish is lean and spicy with just enough grip to age another two to three years. For the moment any piece of roasted or grilled meat will tame this red into submission. For those who can wait 2-3 years you won't be disappointed.Prices:

BC	$19.99	750ml
AB	$17.50	750ml
ON	$17.95	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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87PTS

Rocca delle Macìe Vernaccia di San Gimignano 2006

Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyA 100 per cent Vernaccia white that sees only stainless steel. Look for a clean, fresh style from thin skinned grapes that must be handles with care. The nose is fresh and floral with hints of melon and quince. On the palate it is crisp, clean and dry. A wonderful wine for shellfish or light seafood or pork or chicken sandwiches. The finish is bright and lean with citrus highlights. Well done.Prices:

QC

$14.80

750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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91PTS

Borgo Conventi Collio Sauvignon 2006

Farra d'Isonzo, Gorizia, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, ItalyThe Borgo Conventi estate was founded in 1975 near the small town of Farra d'Isonzo in Friuli's Collio area. Ruffino purchased the home to this lip smacking super fresh sauvignon blanc in 2001. The aromas and flavours mix grapefruit and bell pepper with flecks of grass and a touch of aromatic northern Italian herbs. Elegant stylish and highly drinkable with food. One of the very best Italian sauvignons that I have tasted. The folks at Ruffino who now own the estate say the Friuli Sauvignon was imported from France but has been present in Friuli for decades, particularly in the Collio area. Prices:

US

$18.00

750ml

Producer: Borgo Conventi

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90PTS

Ruffino Lodola Nuova Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2003

Tuscany, ItalyThis tasty Montepulciano is a 90/10 blend of sangiovese and canaiolo that has certainly benefited from a very warm, dry vintage. The nose is a ripe mix of black cherry jam and licorice with floral undertones. The palate is similar with more cherry chocolate mocha flavours in an atypical rich, weighty style with some peppery, licorice, gamey notes in the finish. It offers both power and elegance in an unusually warm year - a California version of Tuscany that will appeal to many New World wine consumers.Prices:

BC	$27.99	750ml
AB	$23.00	750ml
SK	$26.95	750ml
MB	$25.42	750ml
ON	$25.15	750ml
QC	$24.65	750ml
NS	$31.99	750ml

Producer: Tenimenti Ruffino

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90PTS

Ruffino Tenuta Santedame Chianti Classico 2005

Tuscany, ItalyThe new Santedame is using more and better sangiovese clones. There have been many vineyard improvements undertaken and there is a much stricter selection process for the fruit. The plan, according owner Adolfo Folonari, is to reposition Santedame as a 100 per cent sangiovese, from the acclaimed and eponymous Chianti Classic estate that should, and will, be taken much more seriously by consumers. The nose is clean and fragrant with red currants leather, ripe plums and peppery notes. The palate is dry and elegant with more black cherry fruit, liquorice and spicy cardamom flecks. It's impressive young Chianti with a bright future. Lay this away for 3 to 5 years.Prices:

AB	$22.95	750ml
MB	$22.03	750ml
ON	$22.95	750ml
QC	$23.25	750ml

Producer: Tenimenti Ruffino

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94PTS

Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Riserva 2003

Tuscany, ItalyDucale Oro is almost always an elegant red wine but it sometimes leaves you looking for a bit more heft and weight. Not in 2003. The nose is ripe with cherry, licorice and coriander notes. On the palate the entry is supple, the fruit dense and blanced with rich fine grained tannins. Smoke and pepper fleck the rich fragrant red fruit that is the hallmark of this wine. Fine intensity and sufficient acidity should point to many years of drinking pleasure to come. New clones and plantings at Ruffino's many estates are pushing the Ducale Oro, an 85/15 blend of sangiovese with merlot and colorino, to even greater heights.Prices:

BC	$47.00	750ml
AB	$38.95	750ml
AB	$110.32	750ml
SK	$42.95	750ml
ON	$44.95	750ml
ON	$128.00	750ml
QC	$45.00	750ml
QC	$128.00	750ml
NS	$56.99	750ml
NL	$47.99	750ml

Producer: Tenimenti Ruffino

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91PTS

Primovolo 2001

ItalyPrimovolo is a collaboration of three wine producers from three regions using three grapes. Sangiovese from Rocca in Tuscany, barbera from Villa Giada in Piedmont and merlot from La Montecchia in Veneto each vinified and aged separately in French barrique for 12 months before blending. Look for peppery, spicy, meaty, smoky, ash, licorice, vanilla, cherry and tobacco aromas. Its ripe and full but dry with good acidity balance. The entry is warm with smoky, cherry, meaty, minty, licorice, floral, resin, waxy flavours. Long and full with good intensity, will improve over the next 2-4 years.Prices:

BC	$50.10	750ml
ON	$33.30	750ml
AB	$45.00	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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86PTS

Straccali Chianti 2005

Tuscany, ItalyMeaty, floral, cherry, leather aromas. Round, ripe, supple, balanced palate with cherry, chocolate, tobacco, earth and meaty flavours. Simple, ripe, forward-style Chianti at a fair price.Prices:

BC	$13.99	750ml
AB	$11.99	750ml
ON	$10.58	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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87PTS

Rocca delle Macie Rubizzo 2004

Florence, Tuscany, ItalyRubizzo is a 95/5 sangiovese merlot mix with a gamey, tobacco, black cherry, peppery, saddle leather nose. It is round, full and warm on the attack with earth, gamey, meaty, chocolate, cherry, leather flavours. Fine concentration and length on the finish.Prices:

BC	$20.99	750ml
AB	$18.99	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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92PTS

Rocca delle Macie Roccato 2001

Tuscany, ItalyBig peppery, smoky, spicy nose laced with black cherry, rootsy, resin, iodine, licorice, tobacco and sweaty saddle leather notes. Ripe, round, supple and full with good finesse. Spicy, smoky, resin, black cherry jam, prune plum, tobacco, meaty flavours. Warm finish but with fine concentration and length with some tannins still to soften. Will improve with 2-5 years further aging, especially in the magnums offered. Very fine effort from an excellent vintageThis 50/50 sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon mix offers up a smoky, spicy nose laced with black cherry, rootsy, resin, iodine, licorice, tobacco and saddle leather notes. We love the supple textures and finesse of this great vintage and the spicy, smoky, black cherry jam, prune plum, tobacco, meaty flavours. It will improve with 2-5 years further aging, especially in the magnums offered. A fine effort from an excellent vintage. .Prices:

BC	$126.23	1500ml
AB	$115.00	1500ml
QC	$109.00	1500ml
QC	$210.00	3000ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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92PTS

Rocca delle Macie Roccato 2003

Tuscany, ItalyIn 2003 the nose mixes cigar ash, black cherry, coffee and coriander notes with flecks of vanilla and licorice. The palate is rich and round but with fine acidity and balance. Look for spicy, coffee, cassis, cherry, vanilla, peppery, tobacco flavours with some black olive, smoky, plum notes on the finish. There is ripe fruit but with some gripp-y tannins to shed over the next 3-6 years. Well done.Prices:

BC	$52.99	750ml
AB	$46.00	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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92PTS

Rocca delle Macie Sergioveto 2003

Tuscany, ItalySergioveto mixes 80/10/10 sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon and merlot into a rich, round, fat red with fine concentration and ripe tannins. Look for licorice, spicy, black cherry, coffee vanilla flavours with bits of chocolate, tobacco and smoked meat. Warm and perhaps more concentrated due to the warm vintage but well balanced and it certainly will improve over the next 2-5 years. Impressive effort.Prices:

BC	$44.99	750ml
NS	$52.89	750ml
ON	$39.00	750ml
AB	$39.00	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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86PTS

Rocca delle Macie Chianti Classico 2004

Florence, Tuscany, ItalySpicy, floral, gamey, cherry, peppery nose with some tobacco leaf. Dry, round, slightly lean and tight palate. Tobacco, earthy, cherry, herbal, mineral flavours. Needs a steak or ribs to smooth out the edges.Prices:

BC	$19.99	750ml
AB	$17.50	750ml
ON	$19.15	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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90PTS

Rocca delle Macie Chianti Classico Riserva 2003

Florence, Tuscany, ItalyLove this '03 Riserva (sangiovese with cabernet sauvignon and merlot) with its peppery, black cherry jam, smoky, meaty, floral, coriander nose - very aromatic, very sangiovese. Ripe, round, supple but a bit tight on the palate. The flavours mix chocolate, tobacco and cherry, floral notes with a warm, smoky finish. Fine intensity but needs a year or two to fully integrate. Well done.Prices:

BC	$29.99	750ml
AB	$26.00	750ml
ON	$24.15	750ml
QC	$25.35	750ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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87PTS

Rocca delle Macie Vernaiolo Chianti 2005

Tuscany, ItalyRound, dry, slightly tannic 'youthful' entry. Spicy, smoky, earthy, meaty, cherry flavours in a rustic but clean youthful Chianti style. This will continue to evolve and improve with another 6 months bottle age. A classic spaghetti/hamburger/grilled chicken red for immediate consumption.Prices:

BC	$17.99	750ml
AB	$11.50	750ml
QC	$13.60	750ml
ON	$11.10	750ml
AB	$18.99	1000ml

Producer: Rocca delle Macìe S.p.A.

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09 May 2007

88PTS

Devil's Lair Fifth Leg Rosé 2005

Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaThe latest Pink from Devil's Lair is a good as the last. Fresh and juicy under screwcap it mixes red berry fruit flavours with floral notes and touch of licorice. This is a classic summer patio sipper that should work well with a wide range of light summer menu items.Prices:

BC	$19.04	750ml
AB	$14.50	750ml
MB	$17.99	750ml

Producer: Devil's Lair Vineyard

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87PTS

Quails' Gate Gewürztraminer 2006

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe former "Limited Release" label has new look and a crowd pleasing 10 grams per litre of residual sugar. It's fermented cold, in stainless steel, using north and central Okanagan fruit and the result is a terrific little gewürztraminer. It has a fresh, lively, pear and litchi nut fruit flavour flecked with spicy, floral, mineral bits. Thai, Indian, Chinese take your pick or put some away for that Thanksgiving turkey.Prices:

BC

$16.99

750ml

Producer: Quails' Gate Vineyards Estate Winery

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92PTS

Ornellaia 2003

Bolgheri, Tuscany, ItalyLovely rich spicy, peppery, leather nose laced with tobacco, barnyard, gamey, cassis, black cherry aromas with hints of black olives, wax and menthol. The entry is full and rich, the fruit ripe and supple but with fine acidity and balance for such a warm vintage. Smoky, cassis, ripe olive, menthol, resin, tobacco, coffee, waxy, vanilla, mineral flavours. This is the second time we have tasted this wine and six months later it is progressing nicely in the bottle. Still youthful but with fine finesse and concentration and smooth tannins. Will improve with 3-5 years more bottle aging but you could serve today with a major meat course.Prices:

BC	$131.99	750ml
AB	$118.00	750ml
ON	$139.95	750ml
QC	$149.00	750ml
NS	$134.99	750ml
QC	$139.00	750ml

Producer: Ornellaia

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90PTS

Le Serre Nuove Dell' Ornellaia 2004

Bolgheri, Tuscany, ItalyThe Ornellaia 'bambino' has a rich nose of olives, menthol and smoky, cherry, spicy, meaty notes flecked with pencil lead, coffee, tobacco and cassis. The entry is dry, round and supple with fine acidity and tannin management. On the palate the attack is relatively soft with smoky, spicy, olive and black cherry fruit mixed with bits of meaty, vanilla flavours, mint, chocolate and clove notes. Youthful but will fill the gap nicely while you wait for papa Ornellaia. Top quality Italian red wine that will be even better in two or three years when all the parts come together.Prices:

BC	$56.99	750ml
AB	$45.00	750ml
QC	$56.95	750ml
ON	$54.95	750ml
QC	$117.00	1500ml

Producer: Ornellaia

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84PTS

J. J. McWilliam's Cabernet Merlot 2004

South Eastern Australia, AustraliaOpen tobacco, cassis, blueberry, rootsy, earthy aromas. Round, smooth, somewhat sweet entry with blueberry, tobacco, olive, rootsy, mocha flavours. Simple, friendly, easy-sipping consumer wine.Prices:

BC	$10.99	750ml
AB	$10.99	750ml
SK	$10.99	750ml
MB	$11.99	750ml
ON	$10.05	750ml
NS	$11.99	750ml

Producer: McWilliam’s Wines

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08 May 2007

91PTS

Ruffino Modus 2004

Tuscany, ItalyModus is a 50/25/25 super-Tuscan blend of sangiovese/merlot and cabernet sauvignon from the Ruffino estates of Montemasso, Poggio Casciano and Santedame. The aromas mix spice, leather and vanilla with bits of lead pencil and olives with fairly rich game fruit marked with mocha, coffee and black fruits. The finish is dry with some youthful tannins poking through and more gamey, olive, plum notes. Perfect for wild game dishes now or cellar through 2012. Prices:

AB	$50.89	750ml
SK	$52.95	750ml
ON	$59.00	750ml
QC	$59.00	750ml

Producer: Tenimenti Ruffino

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88PTS

Ruffino Libaio Chardonnay 2005

Tuscany, ItalyLibaio was always an appealing wine thanks to its fresh lively palate. But the latest edition of this mostly chardonnay, with a dollop of pinot grigio, hits all the right notes with modern chardonnay drinkers. With no wood and super fresh, bright fruit with light pear and citrus notes make this a delicious go-to summer sipper that should be in everybody's refrigerator. This year, the 2005 is finished (for the first time) under a new Stelvin screwcap suitably coloured burnt Siena that should make it easy to spot on shelves. Great value in a versatile patio or should I say piazza wine. Prices:

BC	$15.99	750ml
QC	$14.95	750ml

Producer: Tenimenti Ruffino

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88PTS

Madfish Shiraz 2004

Western Australia, AustraliaPeppery, blueberry, smoky, blackberry, poultry spice and licorice root aromas. Dry, slightly tart entry with light tannins. Smoky, tobacco, earthy, spicy, black cherry, mineral flavours. Solid fruit on the bright finish. Well done for the price.Prices:

BC	$16.99	750ml
ON	$14.95	750ml
AB	$14.99	750ml
NS	$17.36	750ml

Producer: Howard Park Wines (Burch Family Wines)

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88PTS

Madfish Sauvignon Blanc Sémillon 2006

Western Australia, AustraliaBig grapefruit, passion fruit, mineral, apple skin aromas with a touch of smoky jalapeno. Round, clean, fresh, slightly dry palate with good gooseberry, passion fruit, grapefruit rind, smoky mineral flavours. Nice balance and intensity with a touch of oiliness.Prices:

BC	$16.99	750ml
ON	$14.95	750ml

Producer: Howard Park Wines (Burch Family Wines)

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87PTS

Hope Estate Cabernet The Cracker 2004

Geographe, Western Australia, AustraliaCassis, tobacco, blueberry, licorice root, cedar bark aromas. Dry, round, tight palate with cedar-y, cassis, herbal, tobacco flavours with a dry, warm, peppery, menthol finish. Needs to be decanted for 30-60 minutes prior to serving. Serve with steak.Prices:

BC

$21.99

750ml

Producer: Hope Estate

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87PTS

Hope Estate Shiraz The Ripper 2004

Geographe, Western Australia, AustraliaPeppery, menthol, stewed plum, blueberry, meaty, rootsy aromas. Round, dry, supple palate with good concentration. Spicy, menthol, peppery, blueberry, briary, mocha flavours. Dry, slightly tannic finish but with some finesse. Grille lamb chops would be a fine match here.Prices:

BC

$21.99

750ml

Producer: Hope Estate

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89PTS

Parducci True Grit Petite Sirah 2004

Mendocino County, California, United StatesSpicy, vanilla, smoky, blueberry, black cherry, mocha, licorice aromas with a touch of meat and poultry spice. Rich, round, dry palate with grainy tannins. Vanilla, spicy oak, peppery, plum, black cherry, licorice, smoky mineral flavours. Good intensity if a bit chewy at present. Needs a couple years in bottle or a leg of lamb.Prices:

BC	$38.00	750ml
AB	$33.00	750ml

Producer: Parducci Winery

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86PTS

Devil's Lair Red 2003

Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaLifted tobacco, stewed tomato, leafy cassis, peppery nose with meaty, smoky, Band-aid notes. Dry, round and soft on entry with elegant if a bit light and green tannins. Spicy, peppery, olive, bell-pepper, tobacco, leather, oaky flavours and a slightly acidic finish. More like an old-style Bordeaux than a New World red.Prices:

BC	$55.00	750ml
ON	$50.00	750ml

Producer: Devil's Lair Vineyard

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87PTS

St. Hallett Poacher's Blend Semillon Sauvignon 2006

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaGrassy, canned grapefruit, mineral, floral nose. Fresh, round, zesty palate with grapefruit, honey, mineral, butter flavours with a rind-y, slightly sour finish. Good value.Prices:

BC	$12.99	750ml
ON	$14.15	750ml
AB	$11.95	750ml
MB	$11.95	750ml
NS	$15.00	750ml
QC	$15.10	750ml

Producer: St. Hallet Wines

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88PTS

Parducci Petite Sirah 2004

Mendocino County, California, United StatesRich spicy, peppery, blueberry nose flecked with black cherry, floral, smoky gamey notes. Dry, round and lightly tannic on entry with licorice, smoky, spicy, black cherry, plum, violet and mocha flavours. A touch tannic but with a good solid fruit core that will only get better over the next year or two in bottle.Prices:

BC	$17.95	750ml
AB	$16.50	750ml
MB	$15.00	750ml

Producer: Parducci Winery

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87PTS

X and Y Chardonnay Margaret River 2006

Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaFresh open bread crumbs nose with nutty, buttered popcorn, honey, citrus aromas. Soft, round, dry palate with a touch of oiliness and chalk. Grassy, buttery, leesy, spicy flavours with a slightly bitter citrus rind finish and a touch of vanilla. Solid, stylish chardonnay for the price.Prices:

ON

$17.99

750ml

Producer: Evans & Tate

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86PTS

X and Y Shiraz Margaret River 2004

Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaSpicy, rubbery, black berry, peppery, briary nose. Round, dry, slightly tight palate with smoky, licorice, black cherry, mineral, tobacco flavours and a touch of oak. Elegant but dry and understated fruit style - Western Australia. There's a splash of cabernet and merlot in the mix to round out the finish.Prices:

ON

$17.99

750ml

Producer: Evans & Tate

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86PTS

Montresor Nero del Nago 2004

Veneto, ItalyFloral, spicy, smoky, gamey, rubbery, lifted cherry nose. Round, dry, slightly tannic palate with earthy, tobacco, cherry, cedar, mocha, cassis flavours. Simple, easy, slightly chunky style.Prices:

BC

$13.99

750ml

Producer: Cantine Giacomo Montresor

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85PTS

Chateau de Parenchere 2004

Bordeaux, FranceSmoky, resin, spicy, cassis, stewed plum, rubbery, meaty nose. Dry, slightly tannic, chewy entry with cassis, earthy, mocha, black olive, leafy, tobacco flavours. Solid if a bit chunky. Needs a year or two more in bottle to be at its best.Prices:

BC	$18.99	750ml
QC	$20.00	750ml
QC	$12.95	375ml

Producer: Château de Parenchere

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June 2007April 2007